#changmin fiction

[kissyjuyo]

⌗ kissyjuyo 🎱 ...

... 18+ filo the boyz (maybe some nct and seventeen) centric aus 🌺 all set in feu & ust manila 🏄🏻‍♀️ not affiliated with any of the university & places that will be mentioned !

🐈‍⬛ xo, ning

📓 masterlist !

[t3kandson]

Power Starved

Word count; 7,755

Fandom; A.C.E. & The Boyz

Relationship; Reader X Lee Donghun & Reader X Son Youngjae aka Eric, a little bit of Reader X Kim Sunwoo

Characters, Lee Donghun, Son Youngjae Aka Eric, Kim Sunwoo, Park Junhee, Kim Sehyoon, Kim Byeongkwan, Kang Yuchan, Kim Changmin, Lee Hyunjae, Bae Jacob, Lee Juyeon, Moon Kevin.

Mentions of Ju Haknyeon & Lee Sangyeon

Warning, Memories, Sacrifice, Suicide, Death of a main character, Supernatural, Ghosts, Crime, Murder, Oral Sex, Body Marking, Unprotected Sex,

Note; Sequel to Deathly Powers Set in 2033

Your standing by the lake watching the autumn leaves fall. You can smell him before you can feel him as he back hugs you. "Hi baby," he whispers pressing kisses to the back of your neck. "Hi," you say simply as he pulls you in tightly. "What’s on your mind princess?” He asks as you smell him in, like he's your favourite smell. "Just how beautiful the world is and how content I am," you say meaning every word as you hear Eric hum against your exposed skin on your collarbone. "I'm content too," he says as his hand raises from your waist to your chin.

Pulling your face to look towards your husband, he kisses you tenderly and soft as always. You feel his hard bulge digging into your back which breaks the kiss with a chuckle. "Horny are we," you say as you twist in his hold to face him. "For you, always," he growls with a mischievous expression. "Then what are you waiting for I'm yours," you say proudly letting him hear his favourite words. "Mine," he whispers as his lips press to your neck. "But let's take this indoors," you demand as he takes your hand.

You barely made it to your bedroom. Clothes falling off as your lips refuse to depart on the way up. His hands are bunched around your breasts, his tongue deep in your mouth before you fall to the bed. He rolls himself against you, his member digging against your heat. Arms by either side of your head he looks at you with those besotted eyes you adore. "I'm yours," you whisper to see his grin turn playful. Rubbing his member against your heat, you buckle against him to his chuckle. "Eric please," you whimper to his satisfaction. "What Princess? What's up?" He teases to your frustration. "I need you, I need to feel you in me," you beg as he continues to fail his strike against your core. "Please," you cry as your nails scratch down his back making him moan as he arches himself.

In revenge he slams himself in as you cry out. "I thought you wanted it," he teases stilling. "I want everything that is you," you moan out as he takes another sharp thrust into you. Kisses don't take long to build back up as you both get lost in each other. Meeting each others thrusts as you feel his sweat drip on to you. You begin to feel his thighs shake as he closes in on his high. While your body is not far behind, his hands grip yours as your lips depart. Eyes focus intently on you and his high as the drops of his sweat intensifies. "I love you Kim Minjae," he cry's out before he pours his seed deep within you. "I love you too Eric Sohn," you reply before your coil snaps and you come undone under him. Walls wrapping him tighter as he continues to thrust despite grimacing with sensitivity before he collapses on top of you.

"I'm addicted to you Princess," he says with whispery exhaustion. "Me too, never leave me," you say as your hands fall into his hair. "Never, I would search hell to find you I promise," he chuckled as you joined him. "Don't be so extra," you teased as he looked up to you. "No I mean it, if you leave me I will find you," he says as you flick his forehead chuckling. "I love you, I won't ever leave you so your fine," you reassure him pulling him back up the bed to intwine your body with him. -------------------🔺------------------

"Y/N come get up," you hear Donghun wake you from Eric's world. Your eyes not helping to focus as you struggle to understand what you just imagined. "Y/N we need to go now," Donghun growls with impatience. "How long was I out?" You question Donghun as he looks at you in fear. "You wasn't asleep?" He asks as you wonder was you dreaming. "I don't know," you say as you try to rack your mind for signs. You notice your in bed and you look to your clock you've been out hours, now that night is beginning to fall. "A dream I think," you say to reassure Donghun. "Was he there?" He asks as you nod hoping he wouldn't ask what happened while there.

"We're going now," he orders and doesn't wait for you to comply. Grabbing you he throws you over his shoulder as he leaves the house to your whimpers. "What the fuck Donghun," you growl as he tosses you into the front seat. Slipping into the car he refuses to look at you as you both fall to dead silence. "Donghun why are you acting so crazy?" You question as he looks at you sternly. "This is dangerous, like more then Yuchan ever experienced. We are getting you some where safe so he can't touch you," he says before turning to start the car. "Why do you have to keep comparing me to Yuchan," you shout frustrated. "Because If we don't do something your end up like him," he says gripping the wheel. "Eric isn't the dangerous monster you think he is," you splutter out as you hear a choke leave his throat. "Y/N this isn't up for debate, we're going to the temple," he says after regaining his composure. "Good maybe the Sharman can put some sense into you," you spat out relaxing into the car as best you could. Why had Donghun have to freak out? Is this because he was possessed by Eric earlier. Your mind suddenly adjusted to the fact you had slept with them both. It may have been Donghun’s cock and body but the words and features on his face had often been Eric’s. Was it Eric the whole time? Did Donghun have any recollection of fucking you against your living room wall? Or had he remembered it all and was the reason for his crazy behaviour.

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Grabbing your hand as soon as you get out the car you dig your heels in, throwing his grip from you. "We're safe, we're here please stop manhandling me," you splutter as Donghun looks at you with fear in his eyes. "We're not safe till we get in there," Donghun says pointing to the temple. But before you could move you feel his arms fall behind you pulling you in. "Princess you promised to not leave me," Eric whimpers in your ear. "I have to for now," you reply hands falling upon his as Donghun walks to grab you once more. As soon as Donghun touches you he falls back in a heap whimpering.

"What did you do?" You cry turning to look at him. "Your mine remember," he says possessively. "I'm his too," you cry watching him step back with tears in them. "Please don't ever hurt him Eric, ever," you shout as Donghun drags himself to you. "No, no I won't let him," he says grabbing you pulling you into him as he bites into your neck.

You feel a rush of his emotions hit you, the warmth in your heart at his love. A lot more powerful then you could imagine, even from the moments he showed you before. His desire to fight even the darkest evilness just to keep you, His biggest fear of losing you.

"What the fuck," you whimper struggling slightly as you turned to him as his Eyes are fierce red. Donghun reaches you to press a hanky to your blooded neck. "I told you he was dangerous when will you ever listen to me," Donghun growls as Eric’s red eyes fall back to his normal colour. Sadness on his features as he steps backwards before running from the scene. "Eric," you cry to catch him but Donghun catches your hand. "Y/N he just bit you and you want to follow him. Please I beg you with everything I own please come inside the temple," he says shaking your shoulder with a tear falling from his eye.

Relenting you walk silently towards the temple stairs when your thrown into a heap on the floor. "Y/N," he cry's out running to you in pure fear in his eyes. "Changmin, Byeongkwan," he shouts out before looking to you calmer. "What did he do?" He asks as you look at him slightly dazzled. "He didn't do anything this time, or I didn't see him do it," you said to Donghun. He picks you up in his arms and starts to carry you as Changmin and Byeongkwan dash to you. But before he can welcome them, your both thrown into the floor. "Donghun," Changmin shouts as he reaches him. "You ok Y/N?" Byeongkwan says pulling you up. "Something threw us," Donghun says patting down the dust from his legs.

"Well let's talk inside," Changmin said as he looked worried in the surroundings. Byeongkwan held your hand as you try once more. But again your thrown from that hand back to the floor, hurting you much more from the impact. "For fuck sake," you cry thumping the floor. "What's going on?" Donghun asks worried to Changmin. "It's like she can't get into the temple," he adds looking to Byeongkwan as they both look at each other.

"It's because anything remotely evil can't enter," Sharman Park said making his way towards you all. "Evil, Y/N’s not evil, how can you say that," Donghun snapped as the Sharman made his way to you. "He bit her, pouring evil into her essence," Sharman Park said looking to them. "What does this mean for her?" Donghun says going to grab you, holding you tight in his grip. "Nothing, just she can't enter here," he reply's as Donghun whimpers. "How can we keep her safe now?" Donghun begs as the Sharman walks towards you, taking you from his grip. "We need to trust her to use her full potential talent," he said holding your hand. "Without the help of the temple," he said looking at you with almost knowing eyes. "What no," Byeongkwan said out with concern. "No I won't let her be alone," Donghun snaps as Park Sharman makes his way to him. "Let her be to fix this for now, hopefully in the next couple days she will be able to enter," he said as Donghun shook his head. "No no I'm not letting that happen I'm going to be with her the whole time," he said with defiant expression in his features.

"It's more dangerous for you then her, He's in love with her," he says looking to Donghun. "He killed her, he will do it again," Donghun cried out. "Don't let what I witnessed come true please I beg you," he cried throwing himself to the floor. "You witnessed it?" You questioned him as he looked up to your eyes. "I saw it too the blood dripping from his knife as your body was beneath him dead and lifeless," he choked out tears falling. You looked to the Sharman as you tried to comprehend that he had witnessed what you had too. Did that mean while Eric was using Donghun’s body to have sex with you, he was in the world you visited previously? "I confident she has what it takes to stay alive for a couple of days," he said looking your way. "Y/N go to the car," Donghun seethes as you look at them all. Sharman Park nods as you take the car keys obeying.

Getting in the car you look at Donghun, you can hear the anger in his tone even if you can't work out his words. "I'm sorry," Eric said looking at you. "Really you choose now to appear," you spit out. "Go to Sehyoon's it will explain everything," he winced as you tilt your head at him confused, before he disappears. "How am I suppose to know where he lives?” you grumble rolling your eyes. But as you look at the now vacant seat you find his card sitting on Donghun's seat. "Really why didn't you just drive us there," you spit out rolling your eyes. You take one last look at Donghun arguing with the Sharman before moving into his seat and starting the car. You tried to ignore the expression of fear in his face as the car came to life. But you had already started a pace before he could even reach the vehicle.

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Arriving at Sehyoon's house, it looks peaceful. You can see why Sehyoon fell in love with it before he owned it. Knocking on the door you waited patiently for it to open. "You made it Princess," he said tossing his glasses off. "Really you jumped into his body?" You questioned arms folded his way. "Well it was the only way to be able to feel you a little more," he said pulling you to him. "Eric, we need to talk you need to make me understand," you plead. "First come," he says as he takes you up the stairs. But you freeze to the spot when you recognise it from his world.

"Wait this is," you gasp as he stands by the door to the room you already know inside. Opening the door he steps in, choking at the view. "Why is this here? wait are you Sehyoon's ghost?” you splutter looking at him. "Peel that, I can't do it," he says pointing to the white love heart wallpaper. "What?" You gasp as your mind swirls struggling to take it all in. "Your answers, they are beneath the wall," he says as you look at him with furrowed eyes. "Eric are you a vengeance spirit?" You ask as he looks to the floor. "Yes," he reply's almost silently. "Am I in danger around you?" You ask hoping for him to prove Donghun wrong. "I don't want to be," he whimpers as you walk towards him touching the face you hope he can feel. "I trust you Eric," you say quietly as he slaps your hands away. "Don't ever say that, don't ever trust me," he says, his eyes widened in fear. "Eric," you say sympathetically as he sniffles back a sob. "Just peel the wall back and I will explain more," he begs as you breathe in deeply.

Going to the wallpaper you take the corner in your fingers looking at him briefly as you pull. Heart beating you see Ivy. Pulling another piece you find the cherubs as you continue to earth the old wall mural. "Wait this is, I remember drawing this in your world," you splutter. "Princess, it's not a world, it's memories, our memories," he said sounding in pain. Your hands touch the wall and instantly taking you somewhere else.

The Room darkens as you rush to the door fighting for it to open. When it does a figure you can see moves within the room. "Eric is that you, please stop this it's scaring me," you whimper out. But before you can reach the light you feel the knife slide into you as your world tumbles. "Eric please save me," you cry in merely a whimper with the limited oxygen you have. You hear a chuckle that so dark and you feel for the first time terrified. Instead of Eric’s name you inwardly cry for Donghun.

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Eyes flashing open you find Donghun cradling you. "I'm here I'm here," he coos as he holds you tight. "Your right he was evil," you whimper into his clothing as he holds you as you cry. "Is she ok? Is it working?" A voice hit out as you turned to look to the room to find another stranger. "Can you see Eric?" Donghun asked as you looked around the room shaking your head. "What's that?"Sehyoon said pointing to the mural. "That's my painting," he said confused as he walked toward it his hands inches from touching.

"No don't," you cried out, his hands touched the wall looking at you with confusion. "Why?" He questioned. "Because that's how I entered what ever that was," you splutter remembering him describing it as memories. Even though your death felt more then just a memory. "Well I would say if she can't see him and he's not been transported somewhere that there working," the stranger said as Byeongkwan nodded. "Thanks Juyeon i really appreciate this," Changmin said. "You can't ever take this off do you hear," Donghun said pressing his finger to the chain around your neck. Looking you found a black tourmaline Crystal attached to the chain. "What is it?" You asked touching it. "That's so your no longly sensitive to spirits," Juyeon says. "Eric or nothing else can't touch you," he added. "The thought of never seeing Eric again gave you a nagging Pitt in your stomach. But you tried to hold on to the fear of your life being taken. As well as the image of him holding the blooded knife above your dead body.

"You're staying here with me," Donghun said as he walks you to his home, his hand never leaving yours. "I'm not letting you go so you can stop with those looks," he says as you smile at him. "You going to hold my hand forever are you?" You smirk looking his way. "I really thought we lost you today, I'm never risking your life again," he said biting his lips close to tears. "You won't lose me," you said turning to him.

"What did you mean at the temple earlier when you said I was yours too," he said as you bite your lip. "Eric took me to this world, which he says is memories," , "Not that, about me," he said cutting you off making you relax. "I've liked you since we were kids, and since we slept together. I felt like I don't know, that you were mine in a weird way," you said looking to the floor as he pulled you into his chest. "Y/N I'm sorry but I don't like you," he said after a few minutes as you pushed yourself out his hold as pain seared through you.

"I'm in love with you," Donghun whispered locking his eyes with yours. "Wow really?" You asked as he nodded with a pink blush upon his cheeks. "However, there something you should know though I'm sure you guessed," he said pausing to breathe in. "We didn't completely sleep together,” He said looking at you as memories hit. The features switching between him and Donghun confusing yet alluring you further. "I know," you said out to save him saying those words. "Was it you at any point?" You asked not sure if you wanted the answers. "Up till we were seconds from having sex, it was a really hard battle I don't think i scathed much more to be myself," he said looking sad.

"It's ok, we just have to make our own memories, ones where Eric don't exist," you said cupping his face. "First let's get you bathed," he said standing away like he feared you.

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Walking into his bedroom in your bath robe he leant you. You studied him laying in the bed his eyes closed tight. "Donghun?" You whispered as his eyes opened to take you in. "Where am I sleeping?" You asked as he chuckled before tapping the other side of his bed. "With you?" You queried as he looked up to you with surprise. "Do you not want to?" He asked as you nodded encouragingly and made your way to join him. His arms open for you to slip in next to him as he rolled to face you. "Today really scared me, I know you think it's because I fear what happened with Yuchan but it's not just that. It hurts knowing their’s a chance you could get hurt doing this," he whispers stroking your hair. "Was that why you wasn't amused being my mentor?" You asked as he nodded. "This world isn't for you, I like that it’s now safe," he said his finger brushing against your new pendent.

"Do you really have feelings for Eric?" He asked as you looked up to him. "I don't know, I wish I could easily explain, but I don't understand it. They are times that through these memories I'm besotted with him, it's like I'm someone else and he's all I see. Then when I'm Me, i feel like it's not real these emotions for him and all I see is you," you said as he continued to play with your hair. "So when your unconscious your in love with him?" He asks as you nod to his question. "If that’s where I am, then yes," you said as he went quiet. "But Donghun I'm fully me now and your all I see," you said cupping his face. "That's because I'm who's in your vision right now," he smirks as you chuckle while gently slapping his arm. "I wish you was always in my vision," you said as he sniggered amused. "Now that's greedy I need to bath, I need sleep, and so do you," he said as he placed your leg over his waist. The gown falling to show your legs and some of your bottom. His hands grab the cheeks of your ass as he looks up to you with desire in his eyes.

"Your naked under this?" He asks as you nod. "Not like you provided me with any clothes," you pout as he smiles devilishly. Hands falling to the top half he knocks it off showing your whole body. Sucking in a breath with admiring eyes, his hands fall to remove the gown completely from you as he hovers above you. "Your so delicious Y/N," he says pressing his lips to yours. It's like his lips need to devour every inch of your skin. Slowly from your neck as he peppers kisses down towards your navel to your heat. Pressing himself into your folds he licks strips before sucking the juices his tongue made. Soft moans escape your lips as he uses his tongue to take you to a perfect heaven. Meeting his wandering tongue you feel your high sneak up.

But he stops kissing back up so he can look at you below, a panting mess. His eyes fall to your neck and you know he’s looking at Eric’s bite mark. His hands fall and looks sad before looking back at you. "I claim you Y/N for myself," he says as you smile back. His lips fall to your neck as he softly presses kisses to the mark Eric made. Hands scrunching your breasts he suckles hard around the mark that your sure he reopened the wound. Leaving your skin with a pop he admires the mark before attending to the other side to repeat. "Now your mine," he says as eyes never leave his piece of art. "I'm yours," you smile as he sits on his heel between your legs.

First the T-shirt gets removed, your favourite body on show as you dribble. Then he attacks his pants to reveal his thick member. Leaning his naked body on to yours he brushes your hair out your eyes. "This time it really is just you and me," he whispers that has goosebumps fill your skin.

He then helps to place him self against you to push into you. Your walls stretching around him as he starts a slow pace. Hands falling to his back his tempo increases as he lifts himself slightly, resting his hands gently at the bottom of your neck. The feeling of being at his every whim and trusting him 100% your body shivers in excitement. Your hands fall to his, feeling the veins throbbing through them. He starts to lose him self as he fucks you, his speed increasing as his pressure on your throat tightens. All making you so intoxicated as your high snaps into you making you convulse under him, himself falling apart not long after.

Panting over you he lands on your chest. Your memories of Eric doing the same momentarily taking you. Snapping him back out your mind you focus on Donghun. Before he rolls taking you with him as you lay on his chest. "That was so good baby girl," he whispers as his hands fall to your back, stroking it letting you be content in that moment.

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It had almost been a year and you and Donghun was going strong. Christmas had been perfect, your mother so happy that you were both dating. Sangyeon and his family as well as Haknyeon coming home for the holidays meant your Christmas was filled with so much joy. Yuchan had returned back finally fit and healthy. You enjoyed watching them talk about the exorcism that you couldn't take part of. It was as close as Donghun would allow you to get close to his spiritual world. Juyeon would visit monthly to check on your crystal. You never saw Sehyoon again but knew Changmin and Byeongkwan visited him regularly. You had visited Sharman Park a few times especially during times of unsettled, which occasionally you briefly had. Normally after dreaming about Eric and your death.

He had two new people visiting regularly which you got to meet Kevin Moon and Kim Sunwoo. He had called for a new mentor who happened to be Jacob. The very person who when you had a flying book hit you had taken your fear seriously. It was him who brought you to the Temple unable to mentor you at the time. Many of times you would watch him train his pupils. Kim Sunwoo reminding you a lot like you when you first started. You had even befriended him when he started getting frustrated. Donghun wasn't amused at your friendship, he said it was because of encouraging you to enter the spiritual world once more. But your sure it was his insecurity, you knew Eric was never far from his mind. You had caught him and Hyunjae often talking about him. Silence filling the room when ever you entered.

Though if you were honest Eric was never far from your mind, it was like a missing piece of a puzzle. If it wasn't for the fact you witnessed your own death you would have explored it further by removing the pendent. So you settled for just remembering the favourite parts of Eric in your memory.

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You were sitting for coffee in the cafe waiting for Sunwoo when you noticed Sehyoon turn from the counter. "Y/N." He said excited to see you. "Sehyoon," you said leaping to pull him in for a hug. "How have you been?" You add as he smiles pushing his glasses up his nose. "Yes I've been good, you seem to be looking healthy," he said as you nodded. "Yeah I am, fancy sitting and catching up?" You asked as he looked a little unsure. "It's just one drink. I'm here anyway and you were coming here on your own worth," you said as he nodded taking a seat. "Have you seen Eric since?" You asked as he shifted in his seat. "Just memories," he added uncomfortably. "So your house is much more peaceful?" You asked as he looked at you unsure. "I just want to know your life has settled that's all," you said reassuringly. "Yes it’s much more settled then it use to be," he said as his Americano arrived. Your hands fall to your pendent as he watches intently. "You still wear yours, that's good to hear," he said looking relieved. "Yeah as if Donghun would ever let me not wear it. He's quite a overprotective boyfriend," you said sipping your own drink. "You and him are dating?" He asked with furrowed eyebrows. "Yeah we have for almost a year," you smiled watching his face pause to slope his glasses back up.

"Since that night right?" He queried a little too invasive. "Yes not long after," you said feeling a little unsettled. "Do you remember what happened when you were possessed," you asked wondering what occurred. "Like looking through a tv screen if I'm honest, but yes I basically remember most of it," he said arching his neck side to side as if he was struggling with neck ache.

Your eyes search for his pendent but you couldn't see any sign, despite wearing an open collar with several buttons undone from the top. You smile nervously as you stood up. "It was nice to meet you, I just remembered Donghun was suppose to meet me soon," you said standing up. "Ahh ok," he said looking a little bit conflicted. Taking a step towards you you took one back. Though you had only briefly met Sehyoon a few times he was acting even more odd. "You got something on your shoulder," he said as you grabbed your phone to look. You did indeed finding a stain from your cheeky pastry you munched. "Y/N," you heard Sunwoo call from behind you. "Sunwoo,” You waved intently his way turning your back on Sehyoon.

But before you could step towards to greet him you felt something yank you back. Turning to face Sehyoon you saw his face looking guilty. "Y/N I'm sorry he made me do it," he whimpered as you twisted back. Between you and Sunwoo was Eric, your eyes taking his angry yet desperate features in. Your hands falling to your necklace as your heart raced it not being there. "What's wrong?" You heard Sunwoo say as he caught up with you. "Eric?" You whimpered out in fear as Sunwoo spun around the roam. "There's someone here, wait why’s your necklace there?" He said looking to the floor in fear before his eyes took to yours.

"Y/N please I beg you come back to the house, I promise you your answers will be there. Please," Eric pleaded almost falling to the floor, his hands rubbed together as tears pour from his eyes. "Please if you wish to be with Donghun At least give me this. A chance to explain myself please," Eric said as you looked to Sunwoo. "You can't see him no?" You questioned as he looked confused looking at Sehyoon. "I can," the elder said as you twist to look at him. "Since I had a fall that broke my necklace i see him all the time," he said in fear stepping back. "Eric wait he's the," Sunwoo said pausing looking in fear your way. "We need to call Donghun," he said holding you to face him. "Wait just five minutes I need to talk to him," you said as he shook his head looking frustrated. Turning to Eric you put your hand to him. "Five minutes," you added before dashing off before Sunwoo could catch up.

Dashing to your car he jumped in with you. "Y/N they will follow you Sunwoo will have called him by now already," he said. "I don't think there is enough time to explain," Eric said with sadness. "If you promise not to kill me tonight I will keep them from entering the house," you said as you drove. "I promise your safe tonight," he said as you turned to him and smiled his way briefly. "Where's my cocky Eric gone?" You questioned. "He left when you left me for him," he whimpered broken in the car as silence filled unable for you to answer him.

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Arriving at Sehyoon's house, Eric pointed to where the spare key was kept. Entering you grabbed a pole wedging it between the handle to stop anyone's entrance. Taking Eric's hand you run to the room as he stops at the door. "What?" You question as his face looked in horror. "I'm not in a human form I can't enter, I did evil in that room,” he cried as you looked baffled his way. "But we did things in here?" You question as he smiled warmly. "When you were alive yes, but we're both dead," he said as you tilted your head. "What do you mean I'm dead?" You questioned. "I killed you right their on the floor in the room, you know you saw," he spoke out tears falling down his eye. "Why?" You asked reaching him to touch him. "I'll show you but don't freak out, promise me," he cries. You walk into the room looking at him in the hallway you listen to nothing but your phone vibrating in your pocket. "I feel or see nothing," you ask him as he breathes in deeply. "Touch your artwork, especially the ivy," you looked at him with furrowed eyebrow. "It's toxic," he said as your eyes widened causing a chuckle. "Not like that," he said as you looked to the wall a board having been placed over it. Going to it you pulled on the wood till it fell off showing the beautiful artwork. Fingers fall to the ivy as the room brightens in colour before turning dark.

You fall to the floor as you hear yourself in the distance. "Eric is that you, please stop this it's scaring me," you whimper out. But before the you in this world reach the light you hear the gasp in her voice. You remember the way it felt having the knife puncture you. "Eric please save me," you hear yourself cry as you hear a chuckle that so dark as your eyes try to zone in on him. You hear the click of the front door startling the figure who yanks yourself backwards. Another whimper escapes before your body from this world falls to the floor. You stepped backwards towards the wall as you see the figure move across the room out the window as he climbs down. Rushing to the window to look at the escapee, you barely see him as he dashes with his cap on from the house as if he didn't just kill someone.

The door opens showing light as Eric appears panting as his eye fall to your figure. "No, No," he whimpers falling to you as his hands slide into the pool of blood. "Nooooo," he cries as he picks your body up sobbing that made you want to dash to him. "What have I done, they came for you because of me. I killed you," he cried hugging the lifeless body of yourself to him. "Eric you didn't kill me, you didn't," you say out into the dark. But you know it's pointless, this is Eric's memory your within not your past you. "I told you you wasn't allowed to leave me," he whimpers as he stood up hearing the police cars sirens from the house. Picking the knife up he stood silently, his eyes looking into nothing but blackness. The door opened further a jar to expose him for something he didn't even do.

Suddenly the room is pitch black and your returned to another memory. Eric is sat in a pentagon with candle lights. His tears red and angry as your heart squeezes remembering this one too. "Please, please, god hates me. He won't listen. I want death I’ll do what ever you want me to do. Just give me death let me go from this horrible world," he begs tears falling down his eyes in pure pain. He picks up the knife from behind his back, enough light on it to tell it's from what killed you. "My souls yours just keep Kim Minjae Safe for eternity," he whimpers as he stab's himself.

Your hands rush to him in your own despair. "No, Eric no," you cry as his eyes widen viewing you as he falls into your arms. "Minjae," he cry's as you shake your head, no I'm Y/N," you whimper as he starts shaking like he’s losing all his heat. "Your not, I know it's you, my beautiful Minjae. Thank you Lucifer you kept my Princess safe," he gargle's as blood begins to pour out on you. "Eric I don't know what to do," you whimper watching him die in your arms. "Let me go, the Devil needs me to pay to keep you safe," he chokes out as his hands rise to your face. "Eric why, why did you sacrifice yourself?" You whimper. "Because I love you too much to be in a world that your dead in," he says with panting breath. "Eric," you cry pressing kisses to his face not caring that blood is getting smudged. "I should never...... have taken...... the loan to buy..... this place," he says with his words whispers. "Eric, please tell me how to save you?" You cry sobbing as he smiles. "By being healthy and alive, till I find you again," he says as his eyes begins to falter. "You found me though Eric you found me, this is your present but it's my past," you cry as he smiles briefly before falling unconscious.

You bring his still body to your chest as you sob, your heart broken into tiny little pieces. "Eric I don't know what to do, I don't know how to fix this. I'm sorry I thought you were evil," you sob till your eyes feel wearily closing them wishing this to all be fake so you could return to Eric in your present. "Eric please wake me up I don't want to watch this no more," you sob. "Your killing me please stop this," you scream out.

You wake up in some arms and though you expect it's Donghun's your surprised to find Sunwoo holding your body. Your eyes struggling to take him in. "Y/N are you ok?" He begs shaking you a little as you nod dashing to the hallway. But your weak body falters falling to the floor. "Y/N careful," he says as his hands fall to your hips. "I need to find him, I need to find Eric," you cry. "Y/N I'm here," Sunwoo says as you look at him taken back. "He climbed through the window and I took his body when I heard you called for me," he said holding you closer to him. "Is this really you, please tell me your really here," you cried tears still falling from your eyes.

"Now you know what happened, now you know why I'm a vengeful spirit," he said as you shook your head. "No, Evil used you as its prey, you're not evil Eric, you didn't kill me, that man did," you said as he smiled warmly your way. "I brought out loans from loan sharks to pay for this house," he said as you cupped his face. "Eric that doesn't mean my death was your fault, from the memories I remember we had the most wonderful time here," you said as you wiped his tearful eyes. You hug him tightly into him as you let him sob in your arms. Tears equally falling from his as you cup his face. Pressing your lips to him you kiss him briefly as he smiles. Grabbing your face he pulls you back letting his tongue venture inside your mouth.

Suddenly you hear a crash of the door behind you. Thankfully your lips part before Donghun, Changmin, Byeongkwan, Juyeon, Jacob, Hyunjae and Sehyoon enter. "What the fuck," Donghun says pulling Sunwoo's body towards him shaking him. Juyeon routes behind him placing the pendent around him. "Donghun," you shout out as Byeongkwan and Changmin hold you tight as you fight in their hold. "No, I don't want it," you scream out fighting. "Y/N please I beg do as your told," Donghun says walking your way as Juyeon pulls it around your neck. "Why, why did you come here?" Donghun grabs you tightly. "Eric isn't evil, he’s not I promise you," you said falling to the floor hands together begging like Eric did earlier.

"Y/N he's Manipulated you, what ever he showed you it's false," he said picking you up from the floor. "He's not even called Eric Sohn, his name is Son Youngjae," he said as you tilted your head his way. "And he killed his wife Kim Minjae right here in this room for insurance money. Because he got himself into debt," he said as you felt the room spin. "No I saw, i saw the people he owed money to kill me," you said in denial. "Y/N this only happened ten years ago, you had already been born. They are not your past memories, they are false ones," Donghun said as you shook your head struggling to comprehend everything. "No this is impossible," you said pulling at the chain in a desperate need to talk to Eric.

"Y/N if you pull that necklace then your choosing him over me, I won't ever see you again," Donghun threatens as you look in horror. "I won't fight you or argue with you anymore, the choice is all yours," he said as he walked from the room. "Hyunjae, he really didn't do this," you whimpered to him. "We done our research he did," he said sympathetically. "Y/N she's basically your doppelgänger, she's so much like you. It's why you were his easy prey," Hyunjae added. "So all those memories they were fake ones?" You ask as he nodded.

--------------------------🔺---------------------------

The car journey home was silent as your brain struggled to analyse everything. You felt as if your mind were about to blow, you weren't ready to accept Eric as a murderer. The rational part of you wanted to speak with Eric. But as you looked at Donghun, you didn't have the heart to defy him. He must have been equally confused watching his partner run to another man. You were borderline having an affair with Eric in broad day light in front of him. "Sorry," you whisper as his eye momentarily take to yours. "For what? Their is loads of things you've done," he said accusingly. "For all of it, for the cafe with Sehyoon, for going to his house and for you know," you paused biting your lip as his jaw tenses. "For loving another man," he finishes for you. "Yeah," you say playing with the hem of your top. He drives to the side of the road turning the car off to look at you. "Your in love with him?" Donghun asks looking hurt. "I don't know, I'm confused. It’s like I'm in love with the memories, the life we once had," you admitted as he threw his head back. "Y/N they are not your memories, you were never with him. He put those images there," he said pressing his fingers to your temple. "He gave you an image to love and you took it. Forgetting me in the process," Donghun said with watery eyes. "That's not true I didn't forget you, the second I'm awake it’s you that I think of instantly," you said holding on to his hands. "But when your where you are I don't exist," he whispered as his voice crackled. "Not true I called for you," you said recalling when you had endured first hand Minjae's death. He looked at you unsure as he pulled his hands through his hair. "Donghun I choose you, I didn't go to him even though I know your wrong about him. I won't save him at the cost of you," you said as he smiled your way. "I'm sorry for putting you through hell," you said cupping his face as he leaned into your hand. "I love you, I was so scared. Everytime I know Eric's involved I fear I will lose you," he said as your heart broke seeing the fear in his eyes. "It's over now, don't worry we can go back to our normal life," you said as he grabbed your hand to squeeze before returning to driving.

-------------------------🔺----------------------------

Every night you dreamed of Eric, nothing new but old rehashed memories that he had given you. You woke up Analysing them for the false narrative that Hyunjae Said you had been given.

----------------------------🔺-------------------------

Meeting with Sharman Park about ways to take Eric from your mind you were stunned to see he didn't agree. "You were given a talent, Eric's your first client and you're going to give up?” he questioned as you tilted your head confused. "Y/N, you were given this talent because your special, but you're throwing it away for greed," he said as you struggled for words. "What? How? I don't understand." You splutter as he chuckled. "Donghun is your own guilty pleasure, Eric is your work, your path, your destiny," he said as your brain struggled around his words. "Then why is everyone here against me fixing this?" You question knowing everyone agreed. "Because they fear the unknown, no one can sense him but you," he pauses as he passes you a file. "They fear him because they sense evil, and there is no way for adjusting the reasons to that because they can't see anything," he added as you let it filter through your mind briefly. "Donghun will leave me. If it works to my advantage, he will still leave," you cry as the thought of being without him hurts you. "He will be angry for a while but he will come around, have faith Y/N. He knows this is work, work is separate from personal life," he says drinking his cup of herbal tea. "I have feelings for him, as far to say when i have those images in love with him. This is far from work it’s personal too," you add acknowledging your emotions.

"Y/N when your Minjae you're in love with him, but Y/N is besotted with Lee Donghun. I felt your heartbeat when he walked in here as your mentor," he said smiling your way. "When Donghun realises that, he will come round trust me," he says with certainty. "I don't even know how?" You question feeling your mind burn. "You have to convince them, find a way. Those," he pauses to tap the files he handed to you earlier. "They will help your research," he said winking. "Wait you want me to be Hyunjae, Donghun and myself, in my first case and everything," you gasped as he chuckled. "Why not? you have the ability to sense him when they can not," he adds like he's sees something in you that you can't. "I don't know if I can do this," you whimper as he places your hands in his. "You can, I promise you you can, have faith," he said warmly.

You could do this right Prove Eric's Innocence and Keep Donghun?

Next part Reunited in death

A.C.E. Full Masterlist

Main Masterlist

[yeonmuse]

THE BOYZ MASTERLIST

──────── (𝓎𝓂)

© yeonmuse ┊ please don’t copy, repost, modify or translate my content ໒꒱ ⚰️⸝⸝⸝ all of my written content is purely fiction; ‧₊˚

₊˚ෆ angst ☁︎ fluff% ღ suggestive drabble ‹𝟹 smut ꩜ au

・OT7

Pretty Little Thing | Juyeons overhears you sharing a few words about him and the band with your friend, he thinks it’s a good idea to find out if you’re all talk. features Hyunjae, sunwoo ,haknyeon ,juyeon & eric ‹𝟹

Babydoll | Sunwoo doesn’t like the way Juyeon flirts with you and he knows you well enough to see the way you look at Changmin when you two are alone. He think it’s about time he made it clear just who you belong to. Perhaps it’s about time the two of you made your relationship public. ‹𝟹

・LEE SANGYEON

Puppy love | pt 1 pt 2 | in which Lee Sangyeon visits his best friend at a rescue shelter he volunteers at and finds himself captivated by his Coworker. ☁︎

Avalon | Sanyeong writes a song for you so that all his fans know that his heart belongs to you. ‹𝟹

・BAE JACOB

Two-Faced | Meeting you once again the day after his concert, Jacob can’t help but realize how different you are from the night before, but he can’t deny he finds both sides of you attractive. ‹𝟹

Fallen Angel | Jacob isn’t the sweet angelic preachers son everyone makes him out to be. Behind closed doors he dreams of all the ways he can corrupt you. ‹𝟹

Runaways | Jacob befriends you while on the run from his past. He didn’t expect that he’d find someone like you to accompany him, but you know what they say misery loves company ☁︎ ₊˚ෆ

・KIM YOUNGHOON

Thrillride | You didn’t think that your best friend dragging you along to her favorite bands concert would end with a night joyride from their lead guitarist. ‹𝟹

・LEE HYUNJAE

One of the girls | Jaehyun was used to getting his way when it came with women, but unfortunate enough for him, you were making him work for it that night. ‹𝟹

・LEE JUYEON

Under the influence | Having no other way to get into the venue you decided to act as one of the new guards for hire. Unfortunate or perhaps fortunate enough for you Juyeons quite hard to handle when under the influence. ‹𝟹

・MOON KEVIN

Floor 22 | He spotted you in the crowd the night of his show and as if fate was on his side he found that you had been staying in the exact same hotel that he had been staying in. ‹𝟹

・CHOI CHANHEE

Consume | ( Tokyo ghoul au) , Chanhees innocent little crush is turned sinister, his date decides to sink her teeth into him. Attention | you simply just want your boyfriends attention but he’s a little too wrapped up in his song writing to give you that. ‹𝟹

・JI CHANGMIN

Repay me | Leave it to Ji Changmin to have a drink spilled on him, and be the one to take care of the girl that spilled it on him. ‹𝟹

Snowed in | in which Changmin gets snowed in with his new acquaintance and is taught exactly how to take care of a woman. part 2 part 3 ‹𝟹

・JU HAKNYEON Home Movies | Your boyfriend thinks the two of you should make your own private video for one of his songs ‹𝟹

・KIM SUNWOO

Meddle about | Sunwoo and Eric decide to take you backstage for a more private interview. ‹𝟹

Too Soft | Sunwoo gets reaquainted with his high school crush, and happens to stumble across her in the middle of her ‘self care routine’. ‹𝟹

・ERIC SOHN

Lip Gloss & Secrets of Summer (discontinued series)

Meddle about | Sunwoo and Eric decide to take you backstage for a more private interview. ‹𝟹

One more rep | In which Eric has trouble focusing during his workout, it seems he’s got a thing for his trainer. ‹𝟹

DRABBLES/SCENARIOS

Boyfriend Haknyeon ( F )

Sunwoo soothes your cramps ( F )

Delinquent Hyunjae ( S )

[cloverdaisies]

NOWHERE TO RUN

tbz scream (1996) au

𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐚 𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐫 @: cloverdaisies

description: if the landline rings, remember to answer the questions 𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭. you don’t want to be locked in a house with a masked killer. a tbz au based on & inspired by (scream 1996).

warnings: mentions of violence, murder, blood. this is a work of fiction !!! however, 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐞𝐝 … 🔪💀

member: tbz x you

channel: @deoboyznet

word count: 5k+

NEWS ANCHOR: “The murder of two high school students in the small town of Saltclover has led to the closure of their local high school due to an outbreak of pranks. Students wearing a costume sold as the grim reaper or as their calling it ‘ghost face’ have been heartlessly terrorizing this suburban school after the incident. This is Madeline Fox, Channel One News.”

♫ PSYCHO KILLER - TALKING HEADS plays faintly in the distance. ♫

🔪 10PM IN SALTCLOVER, 30th October 1996

“AGHHH!” A group of kids scream as a man adorning a ghostface mask whips his around from the corner of a tree. Then they scream again as they see another one behind them.

“Got ‘em.” Juyeon rips the mask of his face, high fiving Changmin as they both chuckle with enlightenment.

“Guys it’s not funny to be wearing those, nevermind scaring the little ones.” You sigh, stood on the front porch with a bowl of candy tucked between your elbow.

“They’re literally middle schoolers, too old to be trick or treating anyway. Besides what? You scared?” Changmin laughed, rubbing the mask in your face before walking inside, Juyeon chuckling shortly behind him.

The crackling of the log fire in the living room created a warm ambience, lighting up the room in an orange light. Duvets and pillows all messily lined across the floor as halloween played on the television on the opposite side of the room.

“And then she screams, the ghost is right behind her. She runs away he catches her and guts her like a fish. It was all a dream though.” Changmin burst into maniacal laughter before tucking himself into the sheets beneath him.

“What if, he caught her, bit off her fingers and became known as the finger ghost.” Juyeon adds with spooky jazz hands, crouched in front us, the both of them kept chuckling and watching your reactions, but nothing.

“You guys, two people we know literally died can you not take this a little bit more seriously?” You asked cocking an eyebrow towards the two boys who stared back blankly.

“The more fear you feel, the more you manifest the danger y/n.” Changmin sighed, grabbing the television remote began flicking the channels for another movie.

Eventually all the horror films that you’d all seen around 3 times over sent all 3 of you to sleep. As you slept soundly with locked doors, closed blinds, a black cat perched upon your windowsill looking out into the moon.

🔪7PM SALTCLOVER, 31st October 1996

♫ BACKSTREET BOYS - EVERYBODY, playing through the stereo system. ♫

Halloween was usually a time of harmless fun, where most normally functioning teenagers dressed in silly costumes and pretended they were in a movie as they trashed somebody else’s shitty house party. Unfortunately with a serial murderer running around it was hard for most of society to have fun, knowing someone in a grim reaper mask could show up any second and take your life from your hands. The boys didn’t seem to let such nuisance bother them as they all showed up to your home, wearing costumes from the classics to movie characters to musicians.

“Guys let’s play ring of fire!” Kevin suggested, suitably clothed in a ruby red leather outfit that resembled Michael Jackson’s from the iconic Thriller music video - seemingly he’d put a lot of effort into crafting the costume, that was much like Kevin. The boys each sprant to the kitchen to table, placing a huge cup in the middle of a circle of cards before each looking at Sangyeon hopefully, who wore a blue jumpsuit, in hand a Michael Myers Mask from the famous horror movie ‘Halloween’

“Oldest first.” Sunwoo, the green power ranger pointed towards the cards waiting for him to pick, a silly smirk painted on his face. “Youngest last.”

“That’s unfair but whatever.” Sangyeon grabbed a card picking up the 9 of hearts and flashing it to the table. “Nine is rhyme, so death.”

“Breath.” Haknyeon, wearing all black with a batman mask, quickly added as they began to go around the table reciting words that rhymed.

“Why’d you pick that? Because you’re breath stinks?” Hyunjae laughed pulling a silly face to the boy who hid behind a chuckle at the remark.

“I was actually thinking about yours.” Haknyeon replied cleverly, sticking his tongue out like a child and then looking at Sunwoo expectantly.

“Meth.” Sunwoo added bluntly.

“What I’ll be doing when I leave this place.” Chanhee, rolled his eyes taking a polite chug of his drink since he couldn’t think of a word that rhymed. He wore all red with glitter on his eyes, his skin glowed off the colour and his neatly arranged side part brought everything together.

The sound of the landline ringing and rattling on the kitchen wall interrupted the circle, Sangyeon sighed and got up as the rest of the boys chatted and carried on with the game.

“Hello Sangyeon. You know …”A mysterious low voice taunted him on the other end of the line, you could almost here the cheshire cat grin across the long eerie pause he left. “I think there’s a snake in the room, I see you’re wearing Michael’s costume quite appropriate for someone who is willing to stab their friends in the back.”

“Who’s this?” Sangyeon furrowed his brows and adjusted his posture as he awaited a reply from the caller.

“Answer the question right to survive, who said this ‘Changmin is so insufferable, I have no idea why we are still friends with him’? Little cut throat to say about a friend right?”

“Oh shutup, prank call another house.” Sangyeon almost let out a cackle at how pathetic the call was in his head, probably just one of their high school friends trying to scare him.

“If you hang up you die. I can see you smiling, how about I cut one into that face of yours smart ass.” The mysterious caller grew angry, spitting down the wire hating the ridicule and how unserious Sangyeon thought he was.

“Okay, listen I said it and what?” Sangyeon smiled, since he knew the answer even if this guy was going to kill him, he was going to be correct anyways.

“Incorrect.” The caller replied with a dubious snicker, the sound of him licking his lips grotesquely sounded crystal clear through the speaker.

“What?” Sangyeon laughed in disbelief, he definitely had said that to a few people before so there was no way on earth it wasn’t him - at least in his mind.

“Sunwoo said it, you agreed remember? Don’t you?” Suddenly, Sangyeon’s memory jogged, despite having repeated Sunwoo’s words he wasn’t the first person to say such a thing.

“Who are you?” Sangyeon demanded to know the caller’s identity, his anger made evident as he gritted his teeth and gripped the halloween mask between his fist damp with fear.

“You didn’t even get to the next round. It was horror movie trivia! Snakes don’t survive in this world and as they always say oldest first!” The caller laughed before the phone was slammed into the receiver by Sangyeon, who then stormed up to the bathroom to cool off.

“What’s wrong with him?” Sunwoo asked, as he looked around at the silence on the table, the boys each staring blankly at each other as if there was something he’d missed whilst he’d went to retrieve a beer.

“Well, I walked past and whoever was on the phone said he’d been talking about Changmin behind his back with Sunwoo.” Jacob replied talking a sip of his drink obliviously, wearing a red polo and green apron with a shitty cardboard prop that read “PIZZA DELIVERY” in his own hand writing.

“Listen Changmin, we didn’t mean it like that-.” Sunwoo tried to excuse himself before Changmin who had dressed as Chucky slammed his palms on the table and walked out, tears in his eyes, into the garden for some air, Hyunjae following closely behind him in his Boy George costume.

“Guys we shouldn’t figh-” Younghoon tried to mediate but ultimately failed, the white garments and halo clearly not doing him any favors in trying to play peacemaker in this little argument.

“Let’s not try solve this right now, quite frankly I can’t be bothered.” Juyeon slammed his beer down on the table next to you, picking up the lasso for his Indiana Jones get up and also walking out on to the patio to observe the night.

“Roger that.” Eric further got up, his blonde hair slicked back and an orange scarf tied around his neck. He made probably the most accurate ‘Fred’ from scooby doo you’d ever seen.

🔪 HEY Y/N, WHAT ARE YOU WEARING?

🔪.

It made you happy to see everyone dressed up and get together at times like this, however you couldn’t bare to see everyone argue over such childish stuff like he said this? he that? bullshit.

Still the party is lively nethertheless, Juyeon appears from the patio seemingly having brought more beers from the garage in his hands.

Before he even began to speak a bloodcurdling scream bellows through the hallways, the sound of footsteps dashing downstairs and muffled tears getting closer to the kitchen.

“It’s Sangyeon, he’s dead! The front door is wide open, someone came in and killed him.” Chanhee screams, the palms of his hands covered in blood, trembling in fear with tears falling down his face. Juyeon gets up and dashes up the stairs followed by Sunwoo and soon Hyunjae as he hears the commotion.

Kevin calls the police, on the kitchen landline and you run to hug Chanhee and sit up down on one of the chairs as you shush and cradle him.

Soon sirens were arriving and red and blue lights flashed through the windows, who could of done this? It can’t be one of us? Surely.

🔪. 2.AM IN SALTCLOVER, 1st November 1996

News Anchor: “A killer is indeed on the loose, at a local house party where locals teens were celebrating the halloween season, they found their friend in the bathroom murdered. The police have advised no one to leave their homes until further notice.”

♫ SOMEBODYS WATCHING ME - ROCKWELL ♫ playing over the following scene.

“I mean how did he even get into my house? You don’t understand I’m terrified!” You fiddle with the wire of the telephone as the police search through your home. Eric on the other end of the line agrees, tries to calm you down a little bit, but at the same time he’s seemingly also chill about the situation.

You’d all been questioned on the scene, and whilst they tried to catch the killer who could be nearby, any extra evidence collection was postponed until further notice.

“We’re all done here.” A police officer pops his head through the crack of your door, you quickly ended the call, briefly saying bye to Eric. “Are you sure you’ll be okay tonight?” He further asked taking off his hat and giving you a comforting smile.

“Yeah I’ll manage.” You reply with a nod, knowing you were smart enough to keep everything under control on your own.

As the officer and forensic clean up team left, you closed your bedroom door feeling to ill to use the upstairs bathroom with the events of tonight. Before the landline began to rattle and ring on your bedside table again.

“What Eric?” You laugh picking up the phone expecting him to be there on the other end of the line again like he always was, yapping for hours and unable to control his talkative tendencies.

“Hi y/n.. how’s your evening.” A low unrecognizable male voice speaks through the line, you tangle your fingers in the wire and stand to look out of your bedroom window.

“Who’s this?” You ask with an eyebrow raised, a shiver tickling your spine at the sheer depth of his voice.

“How about I get to know you first, what’s your favorite horror movie?” He asked tauntingly, his breath heavy and menacing.

“Hmm.. Probably Friday the 13th why?” You answered the question before rolling your eyes, thinking a man had probably been looking for people to prank call in yellow pages and stumbled across you.

“Well answer me this question, I can see you looking outside but no one is there honey.” He spoke with a sly chuckle after pretty much every word he said and that’s when slight fear started to cross your mind.

“Exactly no one’s there, you’re just trying to scare me liar.” You laugh at him trying to scare you, after all there’s plenty of creeps out there and so many ghostface wannabes. He couldn’t possibly strike twice in one night.

“Oh but don’t you see I am.” With that a firework was set off on your front porch causing your breath to fall short, watching the red lights hit your window causing you to fall back on to your bed clumsily.

“What do you want from me?” You tremble slightly but assert confidence in your voice as he tries to taunt you from the outside.

“Oh I just want you to answer my questions.” You could hear the nature from outside, the trees rustling behind him as he spoke.

“What if I just hang up?” You asked before you heard him begin shouting down the line in a vicious tone about how idiotic you were being.

“Then I’ll gut you like a fish you clever bitch.” He spat clearly violently annoyed you were not taking him seriously, which irked him to the core. Covering your mouth, you realized he was being serious, this is what happened to Sangyeon on the phone? tears beginning to well as he begins to ask his question.

“In the movie Friday the 13th, what happened to the camp in 1958 that made it close?” He asked you a question about the movie you’d seen so many times, you can’t possibly get it wrong.

“Oh,I know this! Jason drowned and everyone thought he was dead..” You bit your lip anxiously, hand shaking, but you knew it ! That’s how Jason got away with it, they all thought he was dead!

“Incorrect. That was in 1957, there was a serial murder at the camp in 1958-” After he spoke those words you slammed the phone down, you should have thought more about your answer but you couldn’t help but think he would have killed you if you’d gotten it right anyway.

You almost wanted to crawl into a hole as the phone line ended, before you heard an immense crash echoing through halls and coming the front door. Footsteps creaking on the staircase, the end was near as the black fabric of his suit trailed the wooden floors.

You grabbed your star light, the metal cage that housed a bulb was the sharpest object in the room before creeping towards your bedroom door, locking it, ready to strike. You weren’t the dumb character in their horror movie, you were the smart one who put up a fight, you will be the one that escapes.

A knock at your door made your heart beat faster before a series of banging, splitting the wood of the door as the killer burst through in the grim reaper mask, gripping a sharp silver dagger.

You threw the lamp with every bit of strength and the killer fell to the ground with the metal wires of the light lodged in his stomach. You ran past him before he got up and chased you down the staircase, grabbing anything on your way and throwing it right at him. You tried to get out the front door but it was bolted shut and ghostface mask grabbed the back of your shirt holding you against him with the knife to your neck. Complying with him by putting your hands up before suddenly breaking free of his grip and pushing his hand away, it was clear he wanted to hear you scream and at least hear you suffer before being able to kill you.

After managing to escape you dash into the kitchen, throwing a chair to break the patio doors which were likely also locked and ran around towards the back gate, also bolted shut and nowhere near budging.

The killer stood at the end of the alleyway next to your house, slowly stepping closer as your back pressed against the back gate. Next to your foot there was a brick that prevented the gate from swinging open in the night, grabbing it you lobbed it straight towards the killer, hitting him square where he was already injured.

“How dare you kill my friends asshole.” You yelled at the top of your lungs before placing both feet on the metal bars of the fence and jumping over with a struggle, barely landing on your feet. You ran onto the street in front of your house and yelled for help, before you saw headlights driving towards you.

The worn down brick red car only belonged to one person you knew, Juyeon who stuck his head out of the window and called your name as you looked at him with fear in your eyes. Panicked with no other option, you ran towards the passenger door swung it open with the last of your strength and got in.

“Darling what happened?” Juyeon looked at you with concern, his eyes then scanning the wind mirrors and rear view as you told him to drive over and over again in pure terror that you wouldn’t make it out in time.

“He got in again, he was asking me about all these horror movies and tried to kill me-“ You rambled on out of breath, your body covered in tiny cuts and bruises from all the falling and colliding with things.

“Well you escaped, that’s the main thing.” The only words Juyeon could find were those, as he exhaled his smoke with the burning cigarette he held outside the car window.

“I guess so, why are you driving up here anyway?” You manage to gather your thoughts and slightly move away from the original problem at hand, since if you thought about it anymore you would force yourself into a heart attack.

“I was actually coming to check on you, I mean your parents being away is not exactly ideal in the current climate. Your phone line has been engaged for the past hour.” Despite this being a believable statement, you still couldn’t understand his suspiciously peaceful composure.

You looked at him observing his tranquil features as he looked back you with a pair of innocent doe eyes, almost a face you believed read “how could little ol’ me do anything wrong?” Perhaps you were overthinking everything.

“What?” He looked at you confused, making sure to do a double take at the face you were pulling. “You don’t think I’m the killer do you?” He added a slight chuckle of disbelief before pointing to himself with his other hand on the wheel.

“No. Obviously not. He was in the house, you’re here.” You shake away your thoughts and turn your attention to the view from out the window, the houses, the cars and anything else you could analyze but him.

“I think you’re suspicious, I can’t lie.” He took another puff of the cigarette and shook his head, the black streak of hair he kept gelled moving towards one side.

“I’m not! The more you say I am the more I’m going to assume.” You started to get a bit frustrated with his assuming accusations and and waved your hands to confirm your point just to end his train of words.

“Yeah well you know I wouldn’t to do that to you.” He sighed, flicking the but out of the window and returning both hands to the wheel with a sad face.

🔪5AM SALTCLOVER, 1st November 1996

🚔 COUNTY SHERRIF’S POLICE DEPARTMENT

“Deputy Lee I swear I’m telling the truth. He was there the phone rang, my patio door is smashed through because I was trying to escape.” You try to plea with the officer questioning you, seemingly not believing your story since the door had been smashed through the wrong way at the back.

“I mean look at her she’s all cut up, I don’t understand why you can’t believe her. It will be her next if you don’t do anything, just record it for your brothers sake” Juyeon chimed in, being a witness and also arriving just in time to save you from the mess.

“Look I’ll record it y/n, because it’s you and I know you wouldn’t do that to me. But if you are lying to me and giving false leads you’ll hear about it. Don’t bring my brother into this again.” Deputy Lee was unfortunately Sangyeon’s brother and having to work on a case that involved the murder of his little brother was clearly taking a toll on him, like the rest of us he looked like he hadn’t slept in weeks.

🔪 LEE JUYEON’S HOUSE, FARMLAND OUTSKIRTS OF SALTCLOVER

“Did he wear the costume?” Hyunjae burst in with the rest of the boys, his first question being rather on brand for his lack of care about the situation since all he knew about murder was the movies. Maybe that was his coping mechanism.

“Did he threaten to slice your guts?” Changmin further asked in the parade of questions, not asking if you were okay first because in his eyes, ‘oh well you look fine.’

“Are you okay?” Younghoon asked, Kevin and Chanhee crouching beside the bed you were sat on and making an effort to hold your hand and smile at you bitter sweetly.

“She’s staying here whilst her house is investigated top to bottom for trace of the killer, plus she’s much safer here.” Juyeon stood beside you, his arms folded across the clean white tank top he was wearing.

Interrupting the chaos of the entourage that had come to visit you, the landline began to call again faintly heard from the down the stairs.

“y/n it’s for you sweetie.” Juyeon’s Mom stepped through the door with a smile, letting you know she was going out for the night with Juyeon’s stepfather to a salsa party.

“Hi sweetheart, it’s not over yet. Which door am I at? Guess right.” The same mysterious voice almost whispered down the line as your hands begin to tremble.

“No… No.. Stop doing this and leave my friends alone.” You yell as the boys watch you from across the corridor, shaking in fear of their own.

“Which door? you stupid bitch.” The killer on the line grows angry, he could be at any door at any time who knows? You had to get this right, you can’t lose anymore friends.

“The patio.” You blurted out thinking of the patterns in horror movies and how he would usually break in the past few weeks.

“Incorrect.” He laughed at your petrified screaming, making a fake buzzer noise across the line to taunt you. With that the bathroom swung open revealing ghostface, you began running into the bedroom and locking the door. Juyeon grabs a pistol from beneath his bed and aims at the door that was thrashing. Hyunjae grabs a chair whilst the others hide behind the bed.

The killer wearing the costume store ghostface bursts in, snatches the chair from Hyunjae and battles with him, eventually crushing him beneath the chair as the others scream. Juyeon guides you out of the room behind him and hides you in the closest closet whilst he stands outside telling the others where to hide.

You could hear Sunwoo above all the screaming seemingly battling with Juyeon to get him to move to his own hiding spot, whereas Juyeon insisted he had the weapon he had to be the one to get rid of the killer.

“Don’t kill me. Please this isn’t a god damn movie and I want to be in the sequel.” You heard a shrill voice from outside the closet, muffling your whimpers you clamp your hand over your mouth, until all falls silent on the upper floor and chaos sounds out downstairs. You burst out of the wardrobe to see that Juyeon is gone and on the floor lies Chanhee still breathing but barely, stab wounds oozing with blood across his body.

“Chanhee get in the wardrobe I’ll be back, I’m so sorry.” Tears of fear falling from your eyes like mini waterfalls, as you helped him into the safe place and closed it gently to not alert anyone of his whereabouts, he can survive this, you just have to be quick.

You ran into the kitchen where you saw Eric, knife in hand trying to fend of the murderer but clearly to scared to even use the weapon, you grabbed one of the tall breakfast bar stools and pinned the killer to the counter with its legs with all the adrenaline you had you were able to move quick enough.

“WHO ARE YOU?! TAKE THE MASK OFF.” You screamed at him as he was stuck, he surrendered and brought his hand to his head, gently tugging off the mask.

There stood Changmin drenched in red smudges of blood, smiling like a maniac and laughing at the scene as if you were nothing to him. These years of friendship were nothing to him, what happened? Why? Too many thoughts crossed your mind upon seeing him of all people behind the mask that you almost dropped the strength of the chair you were holding.

“What happened to you? Have you become a psycho, you’ve watched too many damn movies.” You spat with unreal fits of rage at how a friend could’ve done this to all of you, how could he kill his lifelong best friends? After just a few horror movies…

“Psychos are psychos y/n don’t you dare blame it on the movies.” He used the phone voice changer to taunt you. before pushing the chair and you to the ground and grabbing your arm twisting it behind your back and holding a black handheld gun to your head.

“Where’s Juyeon? Where’d you get that gun?” You panicked as you saw the item in his hand, struggling to release yourself from his grip as Eric stayed cornered in the kitchen not knowing whether to strike or not.

“It’s all part of the game y/n, you should have answered the questions right.” Changmin laughed cackling at how pathetic your fear had become to him, that sweet boy you knew years ago had lost himself to a few movies.

“Don’t touch her.” Another ghostface mask appears, there can’t be two, all along there was two? Who else would have done this to you? The mask is pulled off revealing Hyunjae?… “The deal was you wouldn’t touch her.”

“And the deal is off.” Changmin smiled with a cheerful voice, clearly being the mastermind of the situation between the two of them. Shock overtook your fear and you broke out of Changmin’s grip with a sharp snap.

They began to argue like children before Hyunjae snatched the gun out of Changmin’s grip with a struggle, shooting him to the ground.

“Princess don’t be angry. He made me do it, he told me we would be together and we could be happy just us two.” Hyunjae stepped closer to you wielding the gun in his hands, pointing it closer towards you without a finger on the trigger.

“No Hyunjae, you’re a fucking psychopath. You were apart of this all along.” You couldn’t hold back the tears of betrayal that fell from your eyes, as he took the gun and traced it down your jawline looking at you with bright proud eyes.

In the corner of your eyes, you saw Juyeon quietly sneaking into the room, his torso littered with stab wounds blood seeping through his white tank top, visibly and seriously injured. However in his hand, he held the dagger of the original killer, you stayed quiet, not looking at him and stalling Hyunjae who had you pinned against the counter.

“It’s almost over now darling, just Eric left! be my prize! Just me and you, everyone else is gone! They’re dead! Although you would look gorgeous with your guts loose too.” He looked at you with the same bright eyes he always did, as if nothing he was doing was wrong he was about to turn to kill Eric, however, that’s when he screamed.

Juyeon pushed him to the ground, the dagger slicing straight through his chest, blood seeping through the costume as Hyunjae groaned in the pain he’d been able to deal but not tolerate.

“It’s over for you, asshole. Who’s scary movie is it now?” Juyeon laughed before wincing, the hole in his own stomach bleeding profusely.

“Juyeon lie down.” You grabbed the back of his head as he began to fall to the ground, you had no tears left to cry and now you had to be the strong one. You lied him down and began putting pressure on his wound.

“POLICE!” Deputy Lee walks into to the kitchen, mortified at the scenes of the house, it was over, it was all over. The surviving boys were rushed into hospital to recover, for you and Eric it was time to heal emotionally together, because it was all you had.

🔪6AM SALTCLOVER, 5TH NOVEMBER 1996

And in the end, it was most of the boys that survived their injuries, having lost most of your childhood friends it was rough but after living a life of loss, you had to deal with what you had.

Haknyeon wasn’t doing well, he’d managed to escape the house that night but entered intensive therapy and you’d visit him sometimes but he didn’t seem to trust you guys since the entire thing. Fair enough.

On the bench seated outside the hospital, you held 4 bouquets of flowers, one for Juyeon who saved you that night, One for Sunwoo for being so brave and trying to save his friend, one for Chanhee who needed them more than anyone right now even if he wasn’t awake.

“Eric?” You asked kicking your legs waiting for the visiting hours to open on the hospital ward they were situated.

“Hm?” He hummed, listening to music through his walkman and looking up at you thoughtfully.

“Do you think we could have changed things?” You asked with a sigh, the question that had plagued your mind for weeks.

“Probably. But it’s over now, we’re safe.” He replied and brought you into his touch to pat your head comfortingly as the birds sang melodies of the early morning around you.

It was all over, but unfortunately you’d lost too much.

“I just can’t believe they’re gone.” You burst into tears as Eric brought you in for a hug immediately, trying to hush you back into composure.

That’s if you believe they’re dead, or is it all just a game.

🔪.

a/n: so guys ! happy late spooky season 🎃 here at cloverdaisies! this has been in the works for a while and i would love to thank @winterchimez for proofreading my plot and @kimsohn encouraging me to finish it ! 🤍 if you’re reading this remember to go support deoboyznet!! you’ll find plenty other fics and writers there if you don’t know about it already :) ! this fic may not be everyone’s cup of tea but it certainly is mine ! this is massive dedication to original scream franchise, one of my biggest interests outside of kpop… it’s a bit longer than usual for me as well but yk <3

[un-love]

the next time you meet them

a/n: for my carats and deobis <3 this is entirely fictional! (that's a given) pls reblog

🖇️ he stares at you across the table, eyes half lidded from all the wine he’s downed. the previously inviting chatter around the table is all noise to him; he can't be bothered to avert his gaze from your face. he hadn't planned on drinking at all that night, but seeing you so close to him, on another man’s arm changed that. a familiar burn rises in his throat. goosebumps line his skin, almost mocking him as he sees your fingers linger on this dude’s arm. what did you see in him? the only time his eyes leave your face is to ask for another drink. (jeonghan / younghoon)

🖇️ he smiles at you, but not before considering sprinting in the opposite direction. it's not as hard as he had imagined, he tells himself, except his heart feels like it just ran a five mile marathon and his ears are ringing. you smile back at him, oblivious to the whirlwind your presence evoked on an otherwise warm sunday afternoon, and he catches sight of the front tooth you chipped on his television set. ah. the day you had moved in together. five months after, you had kicked him out. his heart knows how to put itself back together now, after hundreds of failed attempts. (seokmin / kevin)

🖇️ you have bloodshot eyes and his hand reaches around your waist to steady you instinctively. no one bats an eye when you lean into his touch and tell him you’ve always loved how he smelled, and did he change his perfume recently? this is what friends do, isn’t it? that is what he is to you, after all? (cheol / sangyeon)

🖇️ saturdays are game nights for your mutual friend group. so the fact that you had spent the previous night projectile vomiting on your bathroom floor, or the fact that he was wasted beyond comprehension, resulting in a terrible hangover had to be kept aside to protect a previously well-kept secret. the pit in your stomach gets deeper every time the warm sound of his laugh reaches your ears, body aching to be touched by him. he leaves early. (jun / changmin)

🖇️ he has freshly bleached hair. you know this because he’s at your doorstep. he’s at your doorstep? hope is a home in your chest, immediately crumbled by the look on his face. is he not here for you? “i wanted to come get my stuff. it wouldn't be fair for you to have reminders of me everywhere.” oh. (chan / chanhee)

🖇️ standing infront of the café you’ve been avoiding for the most part of the year, you try to convince yourself you're seeing things in places they aren’t. through the glass window, dark brown eyes catch you. pretty eyes, heavy with confusion (or is it guilt on his face?) attached to a face so familiar it makes your breath hitch. the images come in flashes. hand squeezes, midnight snacks (waffles), one green apple mojito + two straws, butterfly kisses, promise rings, forgotten birthdays, muffled sobs, untouched food, promise rings taken off. too much, too fast. heartache can only be described as a knife lodged in your sternum. (soonyoung)

🖇️ years have passed. he doesn't recognize you, or simply refuses to acknowledge you. either way, your skin tingles with nostalgia when he gets into the elevator after you. they say certain scents can evoke the strongest memories. from your spot, you can trace the slope of his nose, the curve of his mouth, the apples of his cheeks with your eyes. everything is just as you remember it. silver glints on one of his fingers as he lifts his phone to one ear. well, maybe not everything. he was your first love, that's all. (joshua / juyeon)

🖇️ if someone told you the first boy you fell in love with was going to walk up to you, ten years later in the auditorium where you first kissed him, just to tell you how beautiful you look, you would've laughed in their face. but here he was now, (in a blazer, instead of a bomber jacket, but) as exquisite as ever, and after two glasses of wine, you let yourself wonder how his smile would feel against your mouth. i think i’ve seen this film before. would it be so bad to let him break your heart again? (vernon / sunwoo)

🖇️ the thing about weddings is they make you feel nostalgic about things that could poison you (namely, relationships). so when you spot him in the distance, the groom’s closest friend and your former lover, you can’t help but long for everything that once was, everything that could have been. the warmth of his skin against your cold hands, his arms around your waist as he whisks you away for a dance, the vision of his freshly curled hair between your thighs. whoops. (wonwoo / hyunjae)

🖇️ he stands at your doorstep, drenched. water drips from his hair and clothes onto your welcome mat. “i thought about you all day, about how lonely these twenty four hours can get for you. it’s almost midnight, but i had to come, even when the rational part of me advocated that i don’t have the right to do this for you, not anymore. but i wanted you to know that i care, no matter what happened between us. happy birthday. i’m sorry.” (seungkwan / eric)

🖇️ a freezing christmas eve. looks like he hasn’t let go of this habit of always waiting till the last moment to pick up christmas presents. for the years that you were together, you made sure to get it done on time. seeing him now, two winters later, borderline panicking on the other side of the store makes you laugh (and reminisce, and dream). maybe you should go over and h- you’re frozen in place when an arm slides around his waist. he pulls her closer as you watch, heart thumping against your ribcage when he presses a gentle kiss to her cheek. bells jingle as you leave the coziness of the store for the biting cold. you must've been mistaken. that's not the man you knew. (woozi)

🖇️ you bump into him the day you move into a new building. he gives you a smile that makes his eyes soften and watches as you break in two. “oh, i live here too.” what if you had loved him out loud? set free the words rolled under your tongue? what if you had hooked your fingers into his belt loops and pulled him closer? regret tastes like four glasses of wine at your own housewarming party, with eyes fixed on the door. do you believe in second chances? (minghao / haknyeon)

🖇️ the years have been super kind to him but you can see the hints of ageing on his otherwise flawless skin. his smile, velvet and butter, still floods the room with warmth. or maybe just the entirety of you, as he sits next to you on the couch. it’s silly, the effect he still has. you can't help but be jealous of all the moments of him the hands of the clock stole from you. all of the tears and smiles you weren't next to him for. his hands, once soft in yours, are now calloused and rough. his hair, the shortest you've seen it. he shifts closer to you, as if sensing the turmoil. and when his hand grazes yours, electricity shoots through your fingertips. he’s here now. maybe the thoughts can wait. (mingyu / jacob)

bonus:

🖇️ you have a visitor. you open your home to him once again, leading him out to the balcony. the sky is an angry pink, the plants looking warily at who the evening brought in. “look, i’m sorry for not believing you. for pushing you out and leaving you behind. you didn’t deserve that. you're like…the fucking sun and i envy people who see that and get to be loved by you. i don’t get to be bitter, do i? i had it and i lost it. had you and i lost you. let me be yours again.” you wake up to his side of the bed still empty. was he dreaming of you too?

[enbyjjunie]

DKB as where they prefer to cum

not requested

this is just my thoughts on the matter and it's okay if you disagree, this is just fiction. i'm not saying this is how dkb is and this post should not be taken seriously this was worked on in two separate dms so thanks to my fave yuku girl for asking about the topic and @starryjiung for always wanting to listen to me yap and elaborate on my thoughts

if you like this, please consider sharing

NSFW UNDER THE CUT !!! don't proceed if you don't want to read filth

이찬 changmin would probably like to cum on his partner's stomach. he likes the idea of his cum marking them like that and the thought of "if that was inside, it would've gone that far" can also drive him a little insane. changmin's pull-out game is pretty strong imo, which is why i think he could shoot exactly where he'd want to.

디원 dongil is someone i could see wanting to shoot his cum into his partner's mouth. it's part seeing them look up at him in anticipation to get a mouthful and part knowing that they're gonna take every single drop that he's giving them, even better if they swallow. that being said, he'd find it incredibly erotic if his cum would drip down their mouth bc they couldn't take all of it.

지케이 gwanghyun is someone who'd cum inside, but not like junseo would, but more because he wouldn't wanna pull out and away from his partner, since he'd feel that would ruin the intimate energy going on. he'd be someone to hold the person he's with as he cums and just wanna stay in their hold until they both come down from their orgasms.

희찬 heechan fucking loves cumming on his partner's back. i have an idea that he really likes doggy style and pulling out and painting his partner's back in his white shots is hot to him. although, unlike changmin, heechan's pull-out game is not good. his orgasm always seem to catch him off guard. he gets lost in the pleasure and so it takes him a second to react and he most likely has already cum a little inside when he pulls out to shoot on the person's back.

룬 sungmin, i have this idea that he would love to cum on hands. like having been given a handjob to get him to his orgasm, and there's something beautiful to him about watching his thick cum slowly roll down his partner's fingers, and being handled with care in their literally capable hands is just something he loves (man loves being doted on, no surprise).

준서 junseo... there's a reason i mentioned earlier that he's an inside man too but he's one in a way where he likes the idea of impregnating his partner. he'd push himself really deep inside them when he feels himself cumming and hold them tightly, wanting them as close as possible during that moment. he'd do what he can to have his partner cum at the same time as him, loving the feeling of being clenched around.

유쿠 yuku loves cumming on his partner's face. he loves to paint their face with his cum and kiss them afterwards, feeling his own release against him where he touches them. if he's feeling particular pathetic and subby, i can imagine that he'd even take the time to lick it off himself, cleaning his his own mess up with his own tongue.

해리준 harry would pull out just so that his tip is left inside his partner and cum like that. he would love to pull out and watch as his seed gushes out of them, would sometimes make him hard again and then he'd fuck his cum back inside. something about watching his cum slowly seep out in globs would make him dizzy and feral.

masterlist tip jar

a/n: hey everyone, i know i haven't really gotten any further with kinktober and i apologize. it's gonna be a slow uploading speed i fear. i got hit with a bunch of stress and bad life circumstances and have been struggling tbh. i'll try my best to get things written and published but you're gonna have to be very patient with me lmao

[yootaesowlwrites]

Aw, Your Legs Are Trembling - Q / Ji Changmin

A/N: I feel like Changmin was a bit mean to reader in this, just a bit, but not enough fo rme to add it to the warnings, so I’ll add it as a side note here for everyone.

W/C: 3.2K

Note: Blank blogs will be blocked. I don’t trust y’all, so make sure you  have your age in your bio/desc or something on your blog. Minors DNI.

Prompts: “Aw, your legs are trembling, does it feel that good?” + “Call me ‘Sir’ when we’re alone like this,”

Warnings: CEO!Changmin, employee!reader, explicit language, smut, office sex, window sex, Sir kink, nicknames, nipple stimulation, dirty talk, light hair tugging, nudism, fingering, mention of bruising, unprotected sex(reader’s on the pill).

Age Warnings: I will not take responsibility because you wanted to read this, but if you’re under the age of 18+, DO NOT INTERACT OR READ. Do not take this as educational, this is fiction!

You stretch in your chair and hear a few joints crack from how long you’ve been sitting, it was well past the work hour, but there was a deadline coming up, and you were working late, your boss, Ji Changmin, was also still working late while everyone else had gone home early, the tension had been high in the office as the deadline was creeping closer. You add the final piece of paper to the file he had requested and made your way towards his office.

“Mr. Ji,” You say after knocking, you hear a ‘come in’ from the other side and push the door open. “I have the file you requested,” You close the door behind you and make your way towards his desk, you hand him the file before taking a step back from his desk to let him read through it. As you wait for him to finish reading it, you couldn’t help but move closer to the window and stare out over the beautiful view he had of the city, and the city look especially beautiful at night.

Changmin looks up from the file and looks at you, taking in how you looked standing there observing the view, he puts the file down and loosens his tie slightly before standing and making his way towards you without you hearing, you only realize he had stood once he was behind you, and you could feel his front pressing against your back and his warmth radiating onto you.

“It’s such a good view,” He says, his tone even as he spoke. “It seems like you like it as well,” You try to keep your breathing even, his scent was slowly invading your nose and filling your lungs, and you could feel your conscious slipping into the most nastiest thoughts. “Want a closer look?” And with that question, you move to turn around, only for him to push you up against the glass, front first, he gently moves your hair to the side before pressing his lips against the back of your neck. Your eyes completely shut at how good it felt to finally feel his lips touching you, being against you, you had been daydreaming about this moment for months now, even getting yourself off to the thought of it.

“Mr. Ji…” You moan out. Your breathing becomes uneven and the tension in the room thickens, was this real or were you dreaming?

“Call me ‘Sir’ when we’re alone like this,” He mutters against your neck, his hands pulling at your blouse, pulling it from the skirt you had on before slipping his hands underneath your blouse, your skin instantly being set ablaze by the touch as his hands travel towards your breasts. “Do you consent to what I’m doing to you?” His hands cup your breasts, and you feel his fingers pulling at the top of your bra to pull it down and expose your breasts for him to feel.

“I do,” You moan out. It felt so good to have him pressed against you and touching you like this. “Touch me more,” You didn’t care if you sounded desperate. He tugs your bra down, pushing the cups below your breast before fondling them, you could feel heat travelling up your neck before feeling your cheeks become flushed with heat. “Oh, my gosh,” You press your hands flat against the glass and moments later you feel your nipples touch the cold glass through your shirt. “Fuck.”

“I will, be patient for me,” He mutters. He takes your nipples between the pads of his fingers before slowly rolling the nub between them. “You need to be ready for me first,” You could feel a sensation going down to your pussy as he played with your nipples, his nose brushing against your earlobe before you feel his lips against them. “Do you have any idea how long I’ve waited for this moment?” Your head falls back and rests against his shoulder.

“Fuck, me too,” You breathe out and reach behind you with one hand. You run your fingers through his hair before gripping onto them. “For far too long, Sir,” You feel his teeth nibble at your lobe and his breathing was right in your ear, the feeling quickly travels down to your pussy, and you could feel yourself getting wetter. You push your hips back and press your ass right against his crotch before wiggling your hips. Instantly feeling his cock hardening against your ass.

“Fuck, so needy and eager,” He groans into your ear. “That’s so hot of you,” His words were having such an effect on you and your body, you swore his words alone would have you leaking through your panties. His teeth grip your earlobe and tug on it, making you let out a whimper at how good it felt. You feel one of his hands slide down your stomach before slipping into your skirt and cupping your mound through your panties.

“Oh, my, sir…” You breathe out and tug at his hair. His fingers press against either side of your pussy lips and slowly knead into them, you lick your lips as you feel your juices moving around between your lips. “Feels so good, Sir,” He tugs at your earlobe again before releasing it and kissing along your jaw until he couldn’t get any further.

“How long have you been waiting for this to happen?” He asks as he slips his hand from underneath your shirt, you feel his hand grip your shirt at the bottom before feeling your shirt becoming looser around you as he undoes the buttons.

“A while, sir,” You whisper. “A long while now,” He reaches the final button of your shirt before pushing the fabric off one shoulder and then the other, you release his hair and drop your other hand from the glass to let your shirt tumble to the floor beneath you. “I even got myself off on the thought of it,” You feel his hand on your back before feeling your bra being undone.

“You naughty girl,” He mutters into your ear before removing your bra from you. “Did it work?” You gasp as you feel him push your upper body flush against the cold glass, your nipples instantly hardening against the cold surface.

“Fuck, it did, sir,” You gasp. Your walls twitch as the coldness from the glass spreads through your body and quickly heats up, fog was quickly building against the glass in the form of your body. “But this is better than I could have ever imagined, sir,” His fingers press down hard against your folds, and you feel your juices being pushed past your pussy lips and seeping through your panties.

“So fucking naughty and dirty of you,” He says lowly into your ear. “You should tell me about your imagination sometime,” He reaches up and grips your jaw to turn your head towards him. “But not right now,” His lips press against yours, kissing you hotly. You instantly reach back and grip his hair to keep him from pulling away, he pulls your panties to the side and slips his fingers between your folds, making you gasp into his mouth. Squelching sounds come from between your legs, and you feel his fingers slowly rub around your clit, which caused your hips to jerk at the attention your sensitive clit was getting.

You could feel your lungs quickly running out of air and starting to burn, his grip on your jaw almost felt bruising as he held you in place, tension was building up inside you with everything he was doing to you, with everything he was making you feel. His fingers slide from your clit towards your entrance, and he plunges two digits inside you without warning.

“Hmm-mmh,” You moan into his mouth and grip his hair tighter. His fingers curl inside you and slowly slide out from you halfway before he pushes them back in roughly and extends them, the palm of his hand presses directly against your clit. “HMM!” He breaks the kiss, making you both gasp for air, your lips felt swollen, and you could feel saliva spilling onto your chin. “Fuck Si-sir,” His palm rubbed against your clit as he slides his fingers in and out of you, curling them every few times. “Oh… Oh, my… S-sir,” You reach back with your other hand, and slip it between your ass and his crotch and slowly rub your hand over the prominent bulge.

“Ohh, oh, yes, like that,” He groans out. “Fuck…” His tone was low, and it was making your entire body tense up as your high was building. He pushes his fingers deeper into you and curls them, your back arches as you feel them reach your sweet spot, and you instantly saw stars behind your lids.

“SIR, OH FUCK, I!” You scream out in pleasure, your toes curl into the shoes you wore and a burst of pleasure goes through your body as the tension snaps inside you, your body shakes as you go through your high. “Sir, Sir, oh, fuck, Siiiiirrrrr,” You tug at his hair more and your hand falters against his bulge as you tried to keep rubbing him, but the pleasure felt too good to focus on anything else. “FUCK!” Your legs almost buck beneath you as you feel him rubbing that spot over and over to get you through your high.

“You’re dripping all over my hand,” He whispers into your ear, or at least it sounded like he did, you weren’t sure if he whispers or said it louder. Your body slowly calms do, and you begin taking deep breaths to try and calm yourself down, his fingers disappear from inside you, and you release his hair to press your hand against the glass to keep yourself upright.

“Fuck… Sir, that… fuck,” Were the only words that managed to leave your mouth as you tried to catch your breath and tried to get your spinning mind to work properly again, you open your eyes and look around you lazily. The glass was now completely fogged up around you, except for where your body was pressed against it. You hear the sound of a zipper being undone before hearing fabric hitting the ground along with a ‘clink’ sound, you press your legs together and suck your bottom lip between your teeth.

“It’s about to feel much more than that,” He says. You feel his fingers brush against your skin, you gasp as you feel two cold fingers and realise those were the ones inside you, his fingers dip into your skirt you feel him push it down along with your panties, the fabric hits the floor and you carefully step out of them and use your foot to push them aside, your legs felt a little shaky, and you hoped you could keep yourself upright for what was about to happen. He turns you around and pushes your back against the glass, making you gasp at the sudden cold feeling against your warm back.

You feel his hand on your hip and as it slowly slides down to your thigh before moving to the back of your thigh, his hand grips your leg before he pulls it upwards, you hear a loud squelching sound from between your legs as your pussy lips were spread open as he hooks your leg over his arm.

“Fuck, I, oh,” You whimper as you feel the cool air rushing against your wet hot pussy, you feel him press his hips against you before you feel his cock rubbing against your folds, you reach up to hold onto his shoulder with one hand while the other was against the glass, scratching at it already. “Sir…” You watch as he moves his hand between your bodies before feeling him rub his cock along your folds, lubing himself with your juices. “Oh, fuck, Sir, sir, yes.”

“Nice and wet for me,” He mutters before pushing the tip inside you. Your jaw slacks and you let out an inaudible moan as you feel him slowly push himself into you, slowly stretching your walls and filling you, your nails dig into his skin. “Fuck, taking me so good, fuck.”

“Oh, ngh, fuck, I,” You blabber out, you press your head against the window and let your eyes fall shut, your body immediately begins tensing up again as another high was being formed. He pauses once he was fully inside you, taking a moment to get used to your warm wet walls around him, that were just asking him to fuck you as they pulsed around him. “Sir…”

“Hmm,” He lowly hums before pulling his hips back and slamming back into you. Your tits bounce at how harsh his first thrust was, and you tried to grab onto something, anything with your free hand.

“Siiiirrrrr,” You whine, the sounds, the feelings, it all felt so good and yet it felt so filthy and naughty of you both. “Oh, Ohhh, shiiiit,” Your moans mixed in with his groans bounced off the walls, and you were thankful that it was only the two of you in the office building, otherwise everyone would hear just how good he was making you feel. “I… oh, uhhh,” You could feel a heartbeat forming in your clit and the leg you were standing on was starting to become tired. “Siirr,” He leans closer, pushing your leg even further open and manages to push himself deeper into you. “OHH NGHH,” His pubic bone hits your clit with the deeper angle, and you could feel your legs starting to tremble.

“Aw, your legs are trembling, does it feel that good?” He coos out as he thrusts his hips into yours, hitting so close to the spot that would make you see stars and possibly collapse into his arms from pleasure. “Should I lift your other leg also and fuck you properly against the window?” Your walls clench around him, and he lets out a low groan. “I’ll take that as a yes,” He pushes himself fully inside you before pausing.

“SIIIRR!” You scream as you feel his cock shift inside you as he picks your other legs up, pushing you fully against the window while hooking your other leg around his arm also, his hands pressed into the glass as he spreads your legs more open. “Fuck, fuck, fuck, siiiiirrrr,” Your knees were trapped over his elbows as he thrusts in and out of you, his pubic bone constantly hitting your clit. You could feel your muscles tightening up and your high quickly rushing to build. “SIIR!”

“That’s it, let me know how good I’m making you feel,” He practically growls. Sweat was building between you both, and everything felt hot and sticky. “Milk my cock, cum for me, show me what a good girl you are for me,” His words went straight to your pussy, and you felt yourself getting closer and closer. You reach up with your other hand and grip onto his hair, while your fingers managed to break the skin on his shoulder. “Fuck, yes,” He harshly thrusts into you, and then you feel it. The tension inside you snaps, your back arches against the glass and your toes once again curl inside your shoes.

“SIIIIRRRR!” You moan loudly as you come undone around him. His hips seem to move faster at the feeling and sound of your release, your walls clenched around him, milking him for his cum to fill you. “OH, MY, UHM,” Your chest rises and falls quickly, and your entire body shakes with the pleasure going through it, fuck, it felt so good.

“That’s it, make a mess on my cock,” He groans. His hips stutter into yours as he begins chasing his own high, just feeling your walls clench around him and hearing how good your orgasm made you feel was enough for him to get close to his own orgasm. “Make a mess on my office floor,” You let out a whimper at his words, not realising how much your arousal was dripping down his balls and making a mess on his thighs and possibly on the floors also.

“Sir, sir, fuck, fuck, it fe-feels so go-good,” You manage to moan out, your body was absolutely buzzing with pleasure, and it was a feeling you could barely explain. His hips snap into you and his head falls back.

“Ohh, fuck…” His moan was low as his release hits him, you could feel his cum spilling into you and his hips slowly rocking into you as he eases himself through his high. You were slowly coming down from your high as you felt him go through his, your grip on his hair and shoulder slowly loosened, and you lifted your head, opening your eyes. You blink a few times to adjust to the light before looking at him, his Adam’s apple bobs as he breathes in heavily and his hair was uneven from all the tugging you did to it, beads of sweat coated his neck, and you could see some patches of sweat against the white dress shirt he had on.

“Fuck… I, this, it… good,” You mutter as you feel his hips still against you and his cock stills inside you as it slowly grows soft. He lifts his head to look at you, taking a moment to gather his thoughts and catch his breath.

“Let me take you home,” He says and slowly lowers one of your legs to the ground before the other, you lean against the window as you feel your legs shaking. His cock slips from you and your mix releases spill from you, coating your inner thighs. “Such a pretty mess,” He takes a step back before turning around to pick up his underwear, you swallow as you watch him pull it on. What did this mean for the both of you? You watch as he pulls his pants on and zips up his pants before fastening his belt, he lifts his head to look at you before stepping towards you, he bends down to pick up your skirt. “Did I leave you in such a daze you forgot how to dress yourself?” Your lips part and you look up at him. “Hold onto my shoulders, and I’ll help you,” You reach up and grip his shoulders before lifting one leg and feeling him slip your skirt over it before switching sides. He pulls your skirt up to your waist before picking up your panties and tucking them into his pants pockets. “This is mine now.”

“Sir, I…” You begin to say. You push yourself away from the glass and feel the mess between your legs slipping down your thighs. “I’m going to need that,” He picks up his blazer and slips it on.

“It’s late, let me take you home,” He says and makes his way towards the door, you swallow and follow behind him, fuck, the mess between your legs was so fucking distracting, how were you supposed to keep yourself composed, and sit in his car… Sit in his car… without.

“Sir, your seats…” You softly mutter, hoping your words would convince him to give you your panties back, but it is like he hadn’t heard you at all and continued walking. Moments later, you found yourself in the passenger seat, pressing your legs together as you felt the mess seeping into your skirt and possibly leaving a mess behind on his seat.

[helionepho]

Possessive Last Chapter

Kim Sunwoo yandere AU chapter 13 (Last Chapter)

pairing : kim sunwoo x fem!reader

genre : yandere, junior (sunwoo) x senior (you), college au, slow burn, a bit suggestive

warnings : Yandere!Sunwoo, Stalker!Sunwoo, Obsessive!Sunwoo, Possessive!Sunwoo, creepy behavior, obsessive behavior, mention of murder, mention of kiss, a bit suggestive

disclaimer : this is just fiction! please don't take this too seriously! read only if you enjoy!

NOTES : The setting is in South Korea, so I make a fiction name for [Y/N], which is Shin Sooa. (Sunbaenim = a formal korean word used for junior to address their senior. Noona = a term used by males to address older females. Hoobae = refers to a junior, underclassman) also Youngjae (eric), Changmin and Haknyeon are the same age as Sunwoo here.

Since this is the last chapter, I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to read this! I'm still new, and this is my first-ever yandere AU here, so I hope you enjoyed reading it until the end!

wc : 4.0k

status : Completed

chap 1

chap 2

chap 3

chap 4

chap 5

chap 6

chap 7

chap 8 [suggestive]

chap 9 [suggestive]

chap 10 [smut]

chap 11 [suggestive]

chap 12 [smut]

Built a Wolrd Around You

It was a rare warm Saturday when Sunwoo agreed to meet his old circle of friends again — a small reunion Haknyeon had been pestering him about for weeks.

“You’re alive!” Youngjae clapped him hard on the back as they met at the familiar rooftop bar they used to frequent, laughter echoing through the air. “We were beginning to think Sooa-sunbaenim had you chained to her bed.”

Sunwoo just smirked. “Wouldn’t complain if she did.”

Changmin let out a dramatic groan. “There he goes again.”

Even Haknyeon, sipping his soda with his bright grin, teased, “You vanished the moment you got a girlfriend. What happened to bro nights?”

“Got replaced,” Youngjae said with a shrug. “By someone with prettier hands.”

They all laughed, the ribbing light, harmless — until it wasn’t.

One of the girls in the group, Yura — someone Sunwoo used to flirt with casually in the past — she didn’t laugh, she leaned forward, smile tight.

“Or maybe he didn’t vanish,” she said too sweetly. “Maybe Sunwoo was really caged. I mean… Sooa-sunbaenim is the older one in their relationship, right? Quiet type? Girls like her can be more possessive than they look.”

Sunwoo froze.

The air changed in an instant.

His smile didn’t waver, but his eyes sharpened — dangerous, unblinking.

“What did you say?”

Yura blinked. “I mean… it’s just what everyone’s thinking. You stopped coming out. You missed Haknyeon’s birthday. You didn’t even call back when Youngjae’s dad was in the hospital.”

“I was with Sooa-noona,” Sunwoo said calmly.

“Exactly,” Yura said, laughing awkwardly now. “That’s kind of my point—”

He stood.

And everything fell silent.

Sunwoo’s voice was low, chillingly even. “Don’t ever talk about her like that again.”

“H-huh?”

“You say it like she’s a problem.” His eyes burned now — a slow, dangerous fire. “Like she took me. Like I’m a fucking victim.”

“Sunwoo, man, relax,” Haknyeon muttered, sensing the shift too late.

But he didn’t stop.

“She didn’t take me away. I left,” Sunwoo snapped. “Because I wanted her more than I wanted this. More than I wanted any of this.”

The silence deepened, heavy and awkward.

Yura’s face paled. Even Changmin’s usual smiles faltered as he exchanged a worried glance with Youngjae.

And then, as if nothing happened, Sunwoo smiled again — eyes glinting. “But thanks for the drinks. I think I’ve had enough catching up.”

He turned and walked out of the bar with that same casual stride — but his fingers were twitching, jaw tight.

They looked at the closed bar door long after Sunwoo had left, finally understanding what had always been right in front of them.

It wasn’t you who had Sunwoo wrapped around your finger.

It was Sunwoo who had built a world around you — and locked the door from the inside.

***

Later that night, when you welcomed him into your apartment, he pulled you close instantly, burying his face into your neck.

“They said things,” he murmured, voice muffled. “Things I didn’t like.”

You gently ran your fingers through his hair. “About me?”

He nodded. “But I stopped them. They won’t say anything again.”

You held him tighter, unaware of the exact weight of what he meant.

***

Scene : “The Only Light He Knows”

It was late at night at your cozy apartment.

Sunwoo held you close in his arms as you both cuddled on your couch under the blankets. Kissing. It wasn't a make-out session. It was more like a lazy kiss.

Then, you broke it. You moved your lips lazily down to his sharp jawline. He seemed to be enjoying your soft lips against his skin.

You nuzzled your face on his neck and then planted soft licks and kisses there. Sunwoo felt his breath hitch as your kiss on his throat lingered for a moment longer. He couldn't deny how much he loved your affectionate touches, how his bare chest puffed up with desire and need.

Then you pulled your lips away.

Your head resting against Sunwoo’s bare chest now. His fingers idly combed through your hair, his body warm and languid from the lazy kisses shared earlier.

It was silent. Just you both cuddling under the warm blanket. Room only filled with soft breath.

He hadn’t said much in the past hour.

You could feel it—something simmering beneath his calm. His heart thumped a little faster than usual. His hand paused in your hair.

“Sunwoo?” you whispered, turning slightly to meet his eyes. “What’s on your mind?”

He blinked slowly, his gaze distant.

“I don’t remember ever being loved,” he said quietly. “Not… not really.”

You stilled.

Then, the atmosphere changed.

He gave a small breath of laughter, but there was no humor in it. “My mother was the only one who held me when I cried. But she’s gone. They said it was an accident. But it wasn’t.”

You sat up slightly, eyes widening.

“She was murdered.” His voice dropped. “She tried to leave. But my father couldn’t let that happen. So he made it all disappear. He made her disappear…”

Your eyes widened.

“The evidence, the investigation, the headlines. Money can do that when you’re him.” His tone was too even, too practiced—like he had buried the rage beneath layers of silence for years.

“I watched them cover it up. I was just a kid.” He looked at you now, gaze burning. “That’s when I started hating him. Hating everything. The way people lie. The way the world turns its head.”

You reached out instinctively, brushing his hair back, heart aching. “Sunwoo…”

“I hated how people kept touching me like they cared when they didn’t. I hated being paraded like a perfect heir while everything inside me was rotting.” His voice shook for the first time. “And then I met you.”

Your breath caught.

“You were warm. Gentle. Real. And I couldn’t believe someone like you could exist in this ugly world. You made me want to live.”

He leaned closer, eyes sharp and glassy, his hand tightening slightly on your waist. “But sometimes, I hate that you had a life before me. That you loved someone else before me. That your friends can just pull you away from me like they have some right to your time.”

You swallowed, unsettled by the shift in his voice—but you didn’t pull away.

He was trembling now. “I know it’s wrong. I try to be normal around them. But inside, I’m screaming. I want you all to myself. I want them gone. I hate that they don’t see how good I am for you.”

You wrapped your arms around him, feeling his breath hitch against your skin.

“Sunwoo… I’m here. I’m not going anywhere,” you murmured, resting your forehead against his. “You’re not alone anymore.”

His arms closed around you tightly, desperately, like he was afraid you'd vanish the moment he loosened his grip.

“I just—need you to never leave me, Noona,” he whispered. “I don’t think I could survive losing you too.”

Your chest ached.

Then, you brushed your lips against his temple. “I’m not leaving. I promise.”

The words came easily, because part of you believed them. Even if a quiet part of your mind whispered that his love came with shadows.

You let his body curl around you like a vow.

And you held him long.

You never thought you’d see Sunwoo cry. The Kim Sunwoo.

Not like this — not silent, not trembling like a child trying not to break. The same Sunwoo who always joked too loudly, who tugged at your sleeves for attention, who kissed your cheek when you were annoyed just to make you smile. The confident young man who always acted like the world couldn't touch him.

And yet, here he was.

His head was bowed, resting on your shoulder as you held him.

"I used to think rich people had it all,” you whispered, breaking the silence first. “Big houses. Money. Happiness. But… I never imagined what you went through. That someone like your father could—”

Your voice cracked, the horror still fresh in your mind.

Sunwoo didn’t look up, but his jaw clenched. You gently brushed your fingers on his back.

“Sunwoo…”

He finally raised his eyes to you, and it hurt — how haunted they were. Eyes too young to have seen so much.

“I thought if I smiled enough, no one would notice,” he said. “If I was loud enough, maybe I wouldn’t hear the things in my head. Maybe people would like me more if I was funny. Because... if I stopped smiling, if I let myself feel, I wouldn’t be able to get back up again.”

Your heart broke.

You tightened your grips. His body was stiff at first, as if touch was still a foreign language — and then, slowly, he melted into you.

“It wasn’t your fault,” you murmured into his hair. “What happened to your mother. What your father did. You were just a little boy.”

Sunwoo buried his face in your neck. “Do you still want me…? Even after everything I’ve said?”

“I want all of you,” you said, eyes never leaving his. “The smiling part, the hurting part. Even the part that’s afraid of losing me.”

And it was like something inside him crumbled.

He surged forward, pulling you into a kiss so gentle, so full of raw gratitude and ache, it almost made you cry. It wasn’t lustful this time — it was desperate, reverent. The kind of kiss that said thank you for seeing me without needing words.

You held him through the night, curled beneath your blankets, his face buried in the crook of your neck, breathing you in like a lifeline. The storm had passed — not forever, maybe, but for now.

And in that fragile quiet, Sunwoo slept peacefully.

***

Scene: Threads We Can’t Untie

The morning after that night felt different.

Not in the way mornings usually feel after shared kisses or whispered secrets. No, it felt like something had settled in the air between you — something delicate, almost sacred. As if the bond tying you to Sunwoo had been spun even tighter, now made of something far deeper than obsession or attraction. It was built on knowing. On being seen.

And for the first time, Sunwoo didn’t wake up with his usual grin or playful groan.

He stirred quietly, arms still wrapped around your waist, his face nuzzled against your collarbone like he never wanted to leave that spot. His voice came out low and slightly hoarse.

“Didn’t think I could ever tell someone that story.”

You stroked your fingers through his hair. “I’m glad you did.”

He pulled back just slightly, eyes searching your face like he was still trying to convince himself you were real — that you hadn’t run away, that you didn’t look at him differently.

“You don’t… pity me?” he asked, a little too quietly.

Your thumb brushed his cheek. “No, Sunwoo. I love the way you survive it.”

And maybe that was the first time you’d said anything close to love. He didn’t press it — but his eyes glistened, and his arms held you tighter.

***

In the following days, something in him shifted.

He wasn’t just clingy now — he was reverent. Always touching you, always reaching for your hand, your waist, your back. Even in silence, his presence was magnetic. He’d tuck your hair behind your ear when you were reading, kiss your shoulder while you cooked, rub your calves absentmindedly while you worked on your sketchbook on the couch.

You noticed something else, too: he became fragile in moments you hadn’t expected. When you mentioned going out for errands without him, his smile would falter for a breath before returning. When your phone buzzed — even if it was just Minji — you’d catch him glancing too long, eyes narrowing before softening again.

One night, while you were both curled up together after dinner, you caught him tracing invisible lines over your palm with his fingertip.

“You know,” he said quietly, “sometimes I think if you weren’t here… I wouldn’t know who I am anymore.”

You looked at him then — this boy with a shattered past and an ever-burning need to be loved.

“You’re still you, Sunwoo,” you murmured. “Even when I’m not holding your hand.”

His smile didn’t quite reach his eyes. “But I’d rather never find out.”

And as he leaned in to kiss you — slow, deep, like a prayer — you realized something else:

He wasn’t just in love with you.

He needed you like air.

***

Scene: “Behind the Smile, Beneath the Storm”

The weather had started to shift — warmer afternoons, a promise of spring clinging to the breeze. And with it came the gentle tug of your old routines. Friends. Coffee shops. Laughter that used to come without weight.

You hadn’t seen Jiwon and Minji much lately.

Not because you didn’t want to. But because… well, Sunwoo always seemed to need you a little more.

But one Thursday afternoon, while you were sketching at the campus café after class, Minji appeared beside you.

“You disappeared,” she said, sliding into the seat across from you without asking.

Jiwon followed soon after, plopping down with two iced Americanos and a half-hearted smile. “You okay?”

You nodded, but their eyes were already reading too much.

Minji leaned in. “We’re not mad. Just… worried.”

“Sunwoo’s sweet, yeah,” Jiwon added carefully. “But he’s always around, isn’t he? Like… too much. Do you even get time to yourself anymore?”

You hesitated, fingers tightening around your pencil. “He just… likes being close. That’s all.”

Minji’s eyes softened. “But that’s not all, is it?”

You looked down at your sketchpad. You didn’t know how to explain that the closeness had become your new comfort zone. That Sunwoo’s touch, his eyes, his constant presence had begun to feel like the air you were breathing.

“He’s trying,” you said softly, defending him even though you weren’t sure what you were defending against. “He told me he’s never had anyone like this. He’s just… scared I’ll leave.”

Jiwon and Minji exchanged a glance.

“You’re not his savior, Sooa,” Jiwon said gently. “You’re his girlfriend. You deserve room to be yourself.”

You forced a smile. “He gives me room.”

They didn’t look convinced.

***

That night, you came home to find Sunwoo in your kitchen, humming to himself as he cooked. Your apartment was filled with the scent of your favorite instant noodles. He turned when he saw you, eyes lighting up.

“Noona,” he greeted, kissing your temple. “I made ramyeon for us.”

You smiled, setting your bag down. “You didn’t have to. I could’ve cooked.”

He shrugged. “Wanted to. You’ve been tired lately. Besides, it's just instant noodles, I won't burn the kitchen.”

His thoughtfulness was genuine. It always was. But your heart was still tight with the weight of the conversation earlier.

Over dinner, you told him carefully, “I met Minji and Jiwon today.”

He paused mid-bite. “Oh?”

“They’re just worried about me. About us, I guess. Said I don’t get enough time alone.”

He set his chopsticks down. “And what did you say?”

“That you’re trying. That you love me.”

His jaw clenched slightly, but he smiled. Too quickly.

“I am trying,” he said, voice lighter than his expression. “I am normal now, aren’t I? Waiting patiently while you go out, keeping my distance when you ask.”

You reached across the table, touching his hand. “You don’t have to be perfect, Sunwoo.”

He looked down at your hand. “No. Just perfect enough so you won’t leave.”

“Hey,” you said gently. “I’m not going anywhere.”

But something in him had started to spiral already — you could see it behind the shine in his eyes. The smile that didn’t quite reach.

***

Later that night, he stood in your bathroom, staring into the mirror, fists clenched on the sink.

“I hate them,” he whispered to himself, unaware you were behind him. “I hate how they look at her. Like they know better. Like I’m… wrong.”

“Sunwoo?”

He flinched slightly. Then slowly turned, face calm again. “You scared me, noona.”

You wrapped your arms around his waist. “You don’t have to pretend for me.”

“I’m not pretending,” he said, leaning into your touch.

But when you walked back into the room, your phone buzzed again — and this time, it was Minji, checking in.

You saw his eyes dart to the screen.

And for the first time, he didn’t hide his frown.

“You still believe them more than me, huh?”

“No, Sunwoo—”

“I try so hard to be the version of me you can keep. But they don’t want you to love any version of me. They want to take you away.”

His voice was low, brittle.

You reached for him, but he pulled you into a hug that was almost too tight.

“I’m scared,” he whispered, shaking. “Scared that I’ll wake up one day and you’ll be gone.”

You held him close. “I’m still here.”

And as you laid in bed that night, his hand resting over your stomach, holding you like a lifeline, you wondered:

How long until “love” becomes a cage neither of you can walk away from?

***

Scene: “The Quiet Before the Storm”

It had been weeks since that night.

Your days blurred. Your thesis was almost finished. Your apartment smelled like his shampoo. Your sketchbooks had more drawings of him than anything else.

And your friends?

Distant. Quiet.

The last time you met them — Minji’s eyes were glassy, and Jiwon hesitated before hugging you. “We’re always here,” they said, tone loaded. You smiled and nodded, like everything was fine.

Like you weren’t starting to question if you’d slowly disappeared inside someone else’s world.

It was a Thursday night when it happened — just after dinner.

You were cleaning up the dishes while Sunwoo leaned back on the couch, scrolling through his phone. The radio played soft jazz. The air was warm. Domestic.

And then…

He said it.

Out of nowhere.

“I don’t think you should see them anymore.”

You froze.

The sponge in your hand squeezed tight. “What?”

Sunwoo sat up slowly. “Jiwon. Minji. All of them.”

You turned to look at him. “Sunwoo… they’re my friends.”

“They don’t like me,” he said softly, eyes unreadable. “They’re trying to pull you away from me. They’re… poison.”

You felt your stomach tighten. “They’re worried. That’s all.”

He stood, walked to you, voice lower now — almost a whisper. “You said you loved me. That you’d stay.”

“I do,” you breathed. “But that doesn’t mean I have to lose everyone else—”

“But you don’t need anyone else,” he cut in, not angry — just sure. “I love you more than anyone ever will. Isn’t that enough?”

You looked at him then — really looked.

And for the first time…

You saw the cracks beneath his smile.

The loneliness. The desperation. The obsession he’d been wrapping in affection.

And worse — you saw yourself, caught in it.

You stepped back.

“Sunwoo…” your voice trembled. “This isn’t love if it’s only me.”

He froze.

And for one terrifying moment, his eyes went dark. But then… he blinked, and it was gone. He smiled again, soft and shaky. “I’m sorry,” he whispered. “I just… don’t want to lose you.”

You didn’t reply.

That night, he curled beside you in bed like always, arms wrapped tight around your waist. But your eyes stayed open, staring at the ceiling.

You couldn’t sleep.

You just didn’t know what it would cost anymore.

***

Final Scene: “Fear and Love”

Rain fell softly outside your apartment’s window. The world felt muffled, like it was underwater — like time itself had slowed to a hush.

Your phone had been off for days.

Jiwon and Minji probably gave up trying.

It started with the quiet.

The kind of quiet that comes after weeks of being wrapped in someone else’s rhythm, where you don’t even realize how much space they take up — until they’re gone, even for an hour.

Sunwoo had left to grab coffee.

His bag was still on the couch.

You weren’t looking for anything. Just trying to tidy up, like he always did for you. But when you moved the bag, something heavy shifted inside. A familiar leather notebook peeked out. One you hadn’t seen before.

Curious, you opened it.

And froze.

Your photo was on the first page. A candid. You were laughing, looking away — clearly unaware someone had taken it.

You turned the next page.

More photos. Dozens. Hundreds. Some you recognized — selfies you’d posted, pictures from your college exhibition. But others… you didn’t. You were asleep in one. Walking to class alone in another. In your studio. In the market. In your tiny apartment balcony. You, changing your clothes. Your underwear pictures. You, in your underwear.

You started shaking.

Each photo was dated. Categorized. Some were there even before you guys became a couple.

Noted with phrases like “Too tired today. Skipped lunch. I’ll bring her snack later,” or “Talked to some guy. Jealousy level: 7/10. Control it.”

And then, after the photos — pages and pages of your name. Written in shaky, scribbled lines. Over and over again. Sometimes with hearts. Sometimes circled in angry red ink.

“She smiled at someone else.”

“Someone gave her a napkin. I’ll burn it if I ever see it again.”

“She looked sad yesterday. I wanted to die for making her sad.”

“Why are they trying to take her away from me?”

“She’s mine.”

The room tilted.

And then — you heard the click of the door behind you.

Your breath caught.

Sunwoo stepped inside, holding two drinks. He looked... soft. Normal. The kind of boy who’d brush your hair behind your ear and warm your hands with his breath.

Until he saw what you were holding.

His smile dropped.

But not into guilt.

Into something unreadable.

He set the coffee down slowly. “You weren’t supposed to see that,” he said quietly. “Not yet.”

You couldn’t speak.

He stepped closer, crouched in front of you, voice trembling with something deeper than fear.

“I know what it looks like. I know it’s too much.” His eyes searched yours. “But I was scared. You’re the only thing in my life that ever felt... right. So I watched. I kept track. I protected.”

You took a step back.

He didn’t follow.

“I never meant to scare you,” he whispered. “But if loving you makes me a monster... then I’ll still choose to be that. Again. And again.”

Your heart thundered. You should’ve run. Screamed. Told someone.

But instead, you stood there — teetering between fear and love, hurt and hope.

You could hear his breathing: steady, peaceful… deceptively calm.

But your thoughts weren’t. They twisted and spun like thin wires straining against pressure.

You remembered it all — the obsessive affection, the way he clung to you like a lifeline, the little manipulations disguised in sweet words, the photos… all those photos. Notes written in your name.

You weren’t stupid.

You weren’t blind.

Sunwoo wasn’t… normal.

But neither were you — not anymore.

Because even now, even knowing what you knew, your heart ached for him. You thought of that lost boy — the one who stood alone at the edge of love and ruin, who smiled too brightly, held you too tightly, and said you’re the only thing that keeps me human.

What if he was right?

What if without you, he’d collapse?

What if this was your burden — and your choice?

You weren’t sure when you stopped feeling afraid and started feeling responsible.

I can fix him, you told yourself.

Again.

He just needs someone. He just needs me.

And maybe… maybe that was enough reason to stay.

Even if deep down, a part of you knew:

People like Sunwoo weren’t meant to be fixed.

They were meant to be survived.

You whispered, “You’re hurting me, Sunwoo…”

He exhaled shakily. “Then I’ll stop. I swear, I’ll stop. Just… don’t leave.”

And as he reached for your hand with trembling fingers, you didn’t pull away.

You didn’t know anymore.

A long pause.

“I love you,” he said. “Even if the world turns on me. Even if you do.”

You closed your eyes. The weight of his words — of his need — felt heavier than ever. And yet, when he pulled you closer into his embrace, his heartbeat thudding, you didn’t resist.

You never really did.

Outside, the rain picked up.

Inside, you stayed.

And the future waited — unknowable.

Would you ever leave him?

Could you?

��Or were you already too deep?

The answer, just like the rain, never quite came.

***

THE END

check out more of my writing here

[cull3nblaze]

Fictional Crushes Tag Game

Okay, I actually already did it but since I got tagged again by @mrhappyjavaman 😁

I have no idea who was already tagged, so here you go if you want to 😘

@crestsofwavess @dimpleskinard @evansbuck-ley @harmonic-intervention @investingingrayhairs @kinard-evan @lengthofropes @racerchix21 @demonvampire180writes @sherlocking-out-loud @changmin-lord-of-chaos

[t3kandson]

Deathly Powers

Word count; 8,960

Fandom; A.C.E. & The Boyz

Pairing; Reader X Eric Sohn, Reader X Lee Donghun.

Characters; Lee Donghun, Eric Sohn, Park Junhee, Kim Sehyoon, Kim Byeongkwan, Lee Hyunjae

Mentions; Kang Yuchan, Ji Changmin, Lee Sangyoon, Ju Haknyeon, Kim Younghoon, Choi Chanhee & Lee Hyunjae

Warnings; Angst, Supernatural, Passing out unconscious, Spiritual world, Violence, Death, Devil worshipping, Witchcraft, Images of predicted death of Main Character, Ghosts including Eric, Knife, Blood, Choking, Unprotected Sex, Threesome (kinda).

Notes; Part 1/3. Set in 2033/2034

Check out A.C.E.'s new pre release song Anymore

Taglist; @nyu-topia

“The most important thing is to listen to me, especially when I feel it's not safe," Donghun said as you listened intently. "If I find a case too dangerous we need to contact Kim Byeongkwan & Ji Changmin. They are our Demonologist exorcists," he continued as you nodded.

Lee Donghun was your childhood school friend, one who you had gone on two different paths with. While Donghun was up the temples working hard on his spiritual path. You had a string full of broken relationships and failed job prospects. That was till your recent relationship disaster with Choi Chanhee. Who was caught having an affair with your work colleague Kim Younghoon. Turning to alcohol had been your saving till Jacob Bae had brought you to a Powerful Sharman Park Junhee. His spiritual gift or being a soul rescuer. You blamed it on the demands for a purpose in life. But their was a part of you that had fire in your stomach ready to take on the world. The last person you expected to be your mentor was Lee Donghun. His eyes raised in your direction at viewing you at his door. Not impressed by the jokes of him seeing it coming. Now you were sat in his Healing room, chest full of powerful intoxicating incense. Your head slightly a little dizzy from all the chants upon your arrival in old Archaic Chinese. "Y/N are you even listening to me," Donghun said snapping his fingers as you grinned your most amused expression earning a raised brow. "What did I do to earn this punishment," he said into thin air in frustration. "What did they say," you teased as he deadpanned your way. "Have you even seen a spirit?" He questioned as you shook your head. This gift upon you had only shown you eerily feelings and items thrown in your company. But you were yet to be face with a see-through person or a white sperm like dude. "That's because you're not taking this seriously," he grumbled as he gave up sitting on the floor as your sure he was secretly praying for you to disappear. "Are you even aware what I do?" He said looking at you with hope of a easy path. "You seek out ghosts," you said as he rolled his eyes. "More context Y/N," he said as you shook your head. "We find lost souls and help them. Just sometimes," , "Yes you already said sometimes it gets dangerous," you cut him off. "Your job is to communicate with them while I send them to the next land," he explained as you nodded in awe. "But how do I do that if I can't see them?" You asked as he looked a little baffled himself. "We have to train you up I think," he said unsure. "I thought you knew what you were doing, so much for being my mentor," you scoffed as he frowned your way. "I've never had someone to train, so I wouldn't know. Yuchan was already gifted when he came to me," he scoffed with a saddened expression. "Yuchan?" You asked. "Kang Yuchan was a fine Soul rescuer but he got hurt last time. It will be a long time before he will be ready to come back. That's if he can find his health to return back,” he said looking to the floor. "What happened?" You gulped slightly afraid for the response. "Dangerous spirit which is why I need you to desperately listen to me," he snapped as you nodded. "Right first let's see if we can find a way for you to communicate," he said standing up as you mirrored. "Let's go on a hunt," he said excitedly your way.

--------------------------🔺---------------------------

"Where are we?” you asked appearing in the wooded area he walked you through. "You tell me?" He said arms folded. "Well if I knew that I wouldn't be asking," you said folding yours his way too. "Close your eyes," he demanded as you obeyed. "I want you to focus on your breathing, breathe in.... hold...... breathe out," he said in such a relaxing tone. "And again," he instructed you once more. "Keep going Y/N," he encouraged as you continued. With each passing breath you felt the world spin around you as you felt your self merge with the outside air. "Imagine looking out the open door into a world that isn't ours," he said walking towards you as you heard the crunch of the dried leaves under his feet. "Imagine the crisp fresh air in your lungs," he said barely a whisper in your ear, causing you to shiver aroused by his voice. "I want you to see if you can find any people," he continued. Eyes looked around the forest in what felt like your daydream world, but you could not see anything. "Listen out if you can't see anyone, listen for the sounds," he says as you shiver slightly. From the chilly air that you are not sure is real or imagination. "I can only hear you," you say out as he clicks his tongue to the roof of his mouth. "Can you sense anything even if you can't see it. Or feel words that flow that don't feel yours in your mind," he asks as you fall to silence. The only thing on your mind was food. Your tummy rumbling to help make your mouth salivate further. "Stop thinking of your stomach," Donghun moaned as your eyes opened up in excitement. "You knew what I was thinking?” you whispered in awe as he tilted his head with frustration. "Focus Y/N," he grumbled as your eyes rolled and went back to your imaginary world. Pressing his hands to your shoulder you took a deep breath in through your nose, holding it to release a couple seconds later. You could suddenly hear whispers, you tried to zone into the sound but they were barely audible. "You hear something?" Donghun questioned as you bite your lip nodding. "I think so but not enough to understand what, it's not loud enough," you said feeling goosebumps fall up your skin. "Well ask them to talk more clearer out Loud," he ordered as his second hand hit your shoulder. "Please Spirit speak louder and clearer so I can communicate with you," you said slightly a little apprehensive.

"Your mine," you heard whispered out as your eyebrows furrowed. Was it Donghun whispering those words? Was your childhood crush making you believe you could hear the words you wanted to hear. "Very funny Donghun," you said opening your eyes to him looking puzzled. "I said nothing," he replied as his sparkling brown eyes looked your way. "I'm not the one that likes to fuck around, that you," he said deadpanning you. "What did you hear anyway?" He questioned removing his hands. "Your nuts," you lied not wanting him to have acknowledge of your crush. Knowing he would question while you would have said that came from him. "Well guess the spirit truly knows you," Donghun teased as you scrunched your nose his way. "But on a good note you heard something so it's working, let's try again," he said with more motivation then earlier as you groaned. But trying again didn't work, your body was only swaying into the quiet without Donghun’s hands to keep you still. "Well we got a small progress, we're come back tomorrow and try again," Donghun said breaking you from your silent trance.

-------------------------🔺----------------------------

"Hi Mrs Kim," Donghun said as your mother greeted you as Donghun dropped you off. "Lee Donghun is that really you? You must come in," she said not giving him a chance to back away. "You were with Donghun?” she asked in excitement your way remembering your one way crush on him. "Why are you even awake mum?" You questioned as she dragged Donghun to a table to sit. "Work overrun, what's both your two excuse," she said arms folded with a smirk between you both. "We're doing a temple project together," Donghun replied with a half lie. "Oooh temple work," she said excited before looking at the pot on the oven.

"I'm about to warm up some kimchi Jjigae, do you fancy some?" She asks as he nods being relaxed for the first time since meeting as adults. "Thank you that would be nice," he says as you admire the way his eyes small as he smiles.

"What?" He says as he catches you watching him. "Just amazed you know how to smile," you teased as he frowned. "Don't do that you might get frown lines permanently, don't let her ruin your perfect face," your mother said as he chuckled her way. "Mother he already has frown lines look," you teased pressing your finger to the lines his frown made in that moment. "Stop teasing him," she said slapping your shoulder. "I was trying to be a good friend, I know of a few people who could help out with Botox," you continued playfully despite loving his frown. "Yeah that be great always great to work on oneself. Shame we can't improve on your personality," he hit back as you aissh into the air pretending to strike him. "Can't I see you two have reunited," your mother said stirring the pot on the stove. "Yeah I've missed her like a hole in the head," he smirked seductively that had you roll your eyes. Not from his comment but the view he had given. Just why did he have to be so drop dead Gorgeous. "Do you want some?" Your mother said with a bowl In her hand. "No I'm ok I'm going up to bed soon," you said as your mum poured the warmed up meal into a bowl for Donghun. "Well don't let me stop you, your mums better company," Donghun said taking the bowl from her with a thank you added on. "Kiss ass," you spat out as he shook his head holding back a chuckle. "Kim Y/N language," your mother bit out smacking your arm once more. "See your here just to get me beat," you scoff at him rubbing your arm. "She's only doing what I wanted to do all day," he said eyes widening amused. "Whatever," you said clicking your tongue at the roof of your mouth. You didn't make it to your room as you threatened. Instead listening to your mother and Donghun chat about Temple life as they both ate up their food. "Oh wow, it's 4am, you must be tired, please stay. I can put you up in the spare room," she said as you smiled warmly her way. "That would be great we've got loads of work to do tomorrow, thank you," he said as she took his bowl. "Please let me wash up though," he said standing to take the bowl back. "I won't turn that down," she smiled back before turning to look at you. "You can help him, and be nice," she said prodding your arm making you wince. "Make sure he has all the bedding he needs too," she said as you nodded. "I will put up some of Y/N's brothers clothes up for you," she says before going upstairs. "How are Sangyeon and Haknyeon?" Donghun asked going to the sink. "Sangyeon’s married and with kids, we don't really see much of him, he's a Cardiologist," you said thinking of your elder brother fondly. "That's a shame I know you two was close," Donghun said as he passed a washed bowl your way to dry up. "It's ok I was pretty close to Haknyeon before he went to university," you said remembering the feeling of loneliness at home since your younger brother left. "Does he not come and visit much?” he continued to quiz. "He's in England at Oxford university, so no sadly," you said as he turned to you with sadness in his view. "You must have been so lonely without them," he said clearly feeling the emotions on your mind. "I wasn't till," you said pausing remembering Chanhee and the pain he caused. "Yeah I heard about that," he said as you looked to the floor. "Don't waste tears on people that aren't worth it," he said pressing his finger under your chin to look at him. His face full of concern, reminding you of the cherished friendship you had when you was younger. "New beginnings," you said taking a step back struggling with your over beating heart from his close contact. "I'll get your bedroom stuff sorted," you said as blood was rushing to your head a little too fast.

----------------------------🔺-------------------------

"Come on lazy," came Donghun's voice before the impact of a pillow striking you. "We’ve got things to do, so get up," he continued as you groaned. "Just five minutes please," you whimpered keeping your eyes shut. "No five minutes, your eating into my time now, get up," he said continuing his pillow attack. "Ok, ok," you groaned sitting up to watch him smirk your way. "Good wash up, eat up and let's dash. We have got to see Sharman Park today," he said arms crossed on his chest in a thin white vest, his muscles easily noticeable. "Ok out my room so I can get sorted," you said gulping as he agreed. Why had your feelings for him suddenly hit max volume? You blamed this gift which was beginning to sound like a curse.

--------------------------🔺---------------------------

"Hurry up," you said throwing your head over his car as you waited for him. His motherly act had him take your keys to lock up with your mother already having left for work. "Stop being impatient and get off my car," Donghun said as he pulled his arms around your waist to lift you from his vehicle. You groaned despite your heart beating so hard from the extra close contact with him. When your eyes took to a figure across the street. The energy from him was swimming in something strong that you couldn't put your finger on it. His expression mixed with anger and sadness as his eyes was heavily focused on you. You knew enough to know he wasn't alive. "Can you see that?" You said to Donghun without your eyes leaving the male. Who had started to walk towards you before he vanished as Donghun removed his hands from you. "Where?" Donghun questioned. "He's gone now, wait did I just see my first spirit?” you asked turning to face him as he glanced over your shoulder. "Did you really see nothing?" You asked as he shook his head looking at you puzzled. "Normally I can see the dead when I'm touching the person who can communicate with them," he explained. "But you were touching me," you said as his eyebrows furrowed. "Maybe with you I have to hold your hand or something," he said as he rubbed your shoulders with a smile. "But it proves your getting stronger. First a voice now a sighting," he said as he walked to the car. Your eyes raked where that man was once standing, now a complete empty area. But you felt as if his energy was still there causing a shiver down your spine. -------------------🔺-------------------

"What did you see?" Sharman Park said with his head tilting as he looks at you. "Why can I not see it?” he says looking frustrated as the wind blows the leaves from outside the temple. "Can you normally see what I'm thinking?" You ask despite knowing the answer. "If they mind letting their energy be seen," he whispers before looking to Donghun. "Or maybe I just have a different talent," you said causing him to smile his pretty little smile. "I held her and didn't see it neither. I can see even the vengeful ones normally," he said a little anxiously. "Do I need to hold her hand?" He asked the Sharman. "Well try it, see what happens," Sharman Park said as his eyes never left yours. "Y/N," Donghun said as his hands reached for yours as you looked between them both. "Calmly take it when your ready," The Sharman said, his eyes almost knowingly understanding your reluctance. Trying your best to gulp without Donghun noticing your apprehensions you pulled out your hands hoping they wasn't sweaty. Within minutes of touching the skin of your childhood crush.

Colour attacked you from the room as you felt dizzy, heart pumping fast that you knew it wasn't from your emotions towards Donghun. Then came darkness as you lost your vision collapsing into what fell like Donghun’s arms.

Taking a deep breath your opened to find the man you saw earlier. "Who are you?" You said in shakey breath as you moved from his warm grasps. "I'm Eric Sohn," he said as you suddenly realised his voice was the same from the woods. "Why am I here?" You said looking around the hallway you had entered. "Our house," he said watching you as you walked to a room to hold the doorknob. "Our?" You said turning to look at him but he was missing. Shaking your head you looked at the shut door. "This is just a dream," you whispered to yourself as you walked through to the room. The door slamming behind you leaving you alone. You took in the room, the beautiful pink decor with pink rose bedding on the double bed in the middle of the floor. By the headboard was the most beautiful wall mural you had ever seen. Ivy swirling around Angel cherubs. The detail told you that it was hand painted as you admired it. "It's beautiful isn't it?" You heard Eric's voice turning to expect to face him but the room remained empty. "It is, did you do this?" You asked to the empty room. "You did," was the only reply that came out. You turned to the voice from outside the door of the room. "My art is awful I can't do anything like that," you said walking to it hoping he would be on the other side of the door. "Only because you've locked it away, your artworks the most beautiful in the world," the voice said admiringly.

Opening the door, you saw him there leaning against the other side of the wall. "I'm confused," you said making your way towards him as he chuckled meeting you halfway. "You won't be soon, I promise," he said tucking a hair behind your ear. But before any words could follow through. The world you were sent to was taken from you, back to the outside surroundings of the temple.

"Y/N you ok?" Donghun said looking down to you full of concern. "Yeah I saw the man again, the one I heard in the woods," you said sounding wearily. "Did he hurt you?" Donghun asked as he sat you to sit up. "No, he didn't, he just confused me," you said looking at him as Sharman Park took your hands. "Anything?" Donghun said with concern as he looked to him shaking his head. "Is it vengeful?" Donghun said as Sharman Park looked at you more closely. "What did you see?" He questioned. "A house, a wall mural full of ivy and cherubs," you said briefly leaving out the words spoken between you and Eric. "I won't lie I'm unsettled. But I can't work out if that's because I can't see what she's seen, which I've never experienced. Or that theres something there we should be scared of," Park Sharman added as you looked to him confused. "You think Eric’s dangerous?" You said as the Sharman’s eyes opened wide hearing the name. "Is that his name Y/N?” he asked as you nodded. "He said his name was Eric Sohn, why does that mean something?" You asked as he shook his head. "No but it's something I can give to Hyunjae to research," he said smiling sweetly at you letting his hand leave. "Till then I don't want her working with me," Donghun said standing up. "I can see your concern, but we wanted her to work with her gift and she is. Let us not hinder it," Park Sharman said as Donghun tsssk into the air. "I won't lose her like I lost Yuchan," he said sounding upset. "Calm Lee Donghun, I can feel great things from her. Though she needs to be careful and not go thinking she's invincible. She will be ok as long as she's supervised," he said reassuring Donghun to no avail. "No I'm sorry I won't risk her not till I know that spirit is safe," Donghun said picking you up from the dusty wooded area floor. "Well as her mentor thats your choice to make. But a vengeful ghost will find her wherever she is. Whenever it is by your side under your watch or hidden away in a box," Sharman Park added. "I won't let her out my sight," Donghun added as he went to steer you out.

----------------------🔺----------------

"Right, I'm going to stay at yours till we work out who this spirit is," Donghun said as the car pulled up outside your house. "You automatically presume my mother will let you stay," you teased as he looked to you amused. "We both know she won't have any issue with that," he said as you chuckled his way knowing he was right. "Do you really think Eric is a vengeance spirit?" You asked as he looked at you with wary eyes. "I think he’s someone we need to treat as if he is, till we know for sure," Donghun said before getting out the car. You looked to the spot you saw Eric earlier but again it was empty.

As you both made your way to the door a gentleman appeared. His thick glasses with a geeky yet attractive visuals. "Are you Lee Donghun?" He asked as Donghun nodded. "I heard you deal with spiritual entities," he whispered looking anxious saying those words. "Yes, I do, but right now I've got an urgent case I'm dealing with," Donghun replied as the gentleman pushed his glasses up that clearly had slid down his nose. "I have a spirit that I'm sure is trying to tell me something, I feel him more then I see him. But when I do, he's angry, full of hate. It's like he wants me out my own house. I also have moments where I feel like someone else is in control of my body. Like I am just the spectator," the gentleman continued stuttering a little. "I know you must be terrified," Donghun sympathises as he touched his shoulder. "But we have a really important case right now that could be life or death," he says with fear in his own eyes. "But if you give me your details, I can contact you as soon as we are finished on this case," he adds. "Promise?” he asked with shakey breath clearly in fear of his entity in his home. "I promise," Donghun replied as the gentleman pulled out a card from his wallet.

"Life or death my ass," you said as you watched him enter his car looking depressed. "We could have taken the case on," you said jabbing him. "Y/N we can't it's dangerous for you," Donghun says his hands heavily on your shoulders. "Eric apparently is, who ever spirit he has, might not be," you said your face inches from his. "Y/N he said himself the ghost was angry it's possibly a vengeance ghost. Also Right now you seem to be extra sensitive that isn't what we need right now for you," Donghun glared. "Plus, I felt nothing when I touched him," he added as you shook your head. "You said you can see even vengeance ghosts. Maybe it's not with the data malfunction and it's you," you scoffed as he rolled his eyes. "Yeah both myself and Sharman Park are just having a malfunction," he said sarcastically. "Well who knows because you've had this issue twice with two different people," you bit back. "If its anything, it’s that my pain in ass past is annoying being some shield," he groaned as your eyes widened under his accusation. "So your saying it's me?" You whimpered. "Yes," he spat out as you threw your head back unable to find words to throw at him. "So in the meantime that poor bloke’s going to be scared in his own home," you said in another attempt to change his mind. "No we will deal with it when everything's been solved and it's safe," he said focusing on the word safe.

Noticing the man still In his car from the bathroom window, you creep down past Donghun chatting with your mum to go to him. If Donghun wasn't going to help him you wasn't going to let that stop. As Sharman Park said, Your talent should grow not be hindered. Reaching the car the man looks startled to see you standing there. "Hi," he said getting out and greeting you. "Why are you still here?" You asked suspicious hitting that he had waited around. "I don't know, I just haven't got it in me to leave, I'm just so desperate," he whimpered as you put your hand to his arm for comfort.

Like with Donghun the bright colours, racing heart, and dizziness causes you to pass out returning you back to the room once again.

"Really," you stomp your feet annoyed at the journey to get here. "Like could you have done it any other way then have me pass out," you scream into the air hoping Eric will reply. But instead the light bright room is empty of him or his voice. Instead the sunlight outside the room darkens. "Ok ok Eric I get it your vengeful," you spit out hoping for a reply as the room falls to pitch darkness. Fear creeps up you as you feel suffocated in this dark space alone from Donghun and the friendly features that Eric showed earlier. "Please don't let them be right about you," you whimper in fear hoping Eric will appear in the form you want him to. Instead gargled sounds and thuds on the floor hit out as you screech out. "This must be that man’s world," you whisper in denial. "Wake up," you hear Eric’s voice scream out in the distance. "I would if I could," you cry in panic as you walk towards the sound. Hands feeling for the doorknob hoping it will reach him like it did last time. "Wake up," you hear again a little angrier as your hands find the doorknob. Pulling it open the hallway is no lighter, your hands reaching out to walk forward till they bump into a body. "Eric please say that’s you," you say out hopeful. But instead, you see red angry eyes appear in your view. "I said wake up," Eric’s voice hits from the body your seeing draped in darkness and evil.

"Y/N," you hear from Donghun’s voice as you turn to the darken room. "Donghun I'm here I can't wake up," you scream to the silence as you feel your body shake. Bright lights attack your eyes as you wake whimpering to see Donghun’s worried face holding you once more. "It's ok, it's ok, I got you," he says as you shake in fear in his arms. "It was dark," you cry out not letting him know about what you saw with Eric. "It's ok, I got you," Donghun repeated as he sat holding you while the gentleman watched on. "Does she need anything?" He said with equal concern. "No Mr Kim," Donghun spat out with anger laced in his tone. "Let's get you indoors ok," Donghun said helping to lift you from the floor. Your eyes take Mr Kim and he looks at you with pure worry as his glasses slide down his nose. "I’ll be back to speak to you in a minute just please let me get her inside," Donghun says more calmer. "Ok Mr Lee, take your time," Mr Kim reply's as Donghun takes you inside.

But before you can get to the door he pulls you to look at him. "Why did you do that? I told you it was dangerous," he spat out. "Because I wanted to help," you reply as his jaw tenses in anger. "Y/N you fucking passed out and went somewhere we couldn't get you from," he growled. "I woke up though," you replied barely audible. "What if you didn't, I've already lost one person under my wing. I can't afford to lose another," he spat out. "I'm not Yuchan," you hit back feeling stronger. "No your not, he had years under his belt, he was stronger and he listened to me," Donghun spat out hurting your pride. "Anyway, I think that little experiment of yours is enough to tell me that this won't work," he said a little more strict toned. "What?" You gasped. "This is too dangerous for you, I won't work with you. Tomorrow you're going to the temple to somehow get this gift of yours removed. You need to be closed off instead of your third eye opened up," Donghun said almost like he was trying to convince himself. "You make it sound like I wanted this gift for myself," you cried out. "Knowing you you probably did," Donghun said tossing his hands in despair through his hair. "Donghun," you cried out hurt with his words. "Look enoughs been said you need rest, you've passed out twice with these encounters today, we will sort this out tomorrow," he said more softer. "What about Mr Kim?” you asked with concern. "I think Byeongkwan and Changmin can deal with his vengeance spirit, because I'm now one man down, again.” Donghun added as you rolled your eyes walking inside your home. Once in the quiet you threw your head at the back of the wall. No way on this earth you were going to let this go. You were going to train even harder just to prove a point, especially to Donghun.

--------------------🔺------------------

Sharman Park refused to accept Donghun’s demands, instead keeping you there to help train you himself. Each day made you feel stronger just from the constant mediation and deeply inhaled essences around the temple. Donghun had only visited once to speak with Hyunjae. His research hadn't proven fruitful and they couldn't prove or unprove if Eric Sohn was peaceful or vengeful. Donghun had only spoken briefly to you but that wasn't his fault. It was more to do with you pretending to meditate when he arrived. Just to put two fingers to him that you could be taught by someone that wasn't him. -------------------🔺-------------------

After a couple of weeks, you decided to leave the temple, Sharman Park happily authorising. Entering your quiet home you found a pile of letters on the table in your name. While opening one of them a get well card was pulled from its envelope.

I'm sorry if I caused any stress. Hope your feeling better soon

Mr Kim Sehyoon. Xx

"Ahh bless him," you said to the silence. You wondered if he got the help he needed. Knowing Donghun wouldn't update you, you run to your bag. Inside was the card with his details that Donghun accidentally dropped outside your house on the way to the temple. Ringing him you waited till he picked up.

"Hi Mr Kim, it's Kim Y/N here, I don't know if you remember me,", "I do how are you feeling?” the happy voice in the phone cut you off. "I'm good I'm doing much better thanks," you replied. "I was just wondering did you get your situation sorted," you asked as he breathed in deep in the background. "In all honesty, not yet, Mr Lee got me in contact with Mr Ji. But sadly him and his colleague are also working on an important case right now," he said with a sadden voice. "How would you feel if I came to yours, we could talk more about it. I'm not promising much as I'm not that talented, but I can try to help," you said waiting for the silence of the other end. "What's up Mr Kim?” you asked fearing the words you knew would come. "Mr Lee said that under no circumstances am I to meet you again," he said as your anger brewed. "Mr Lee is no longly working with me so no doubt that's why he said that," you replied as the silence continued for a short couple of seconds. "I'm sorry to hear that, he seemed to care a lot about you," Mr Kim replied. "It's a facade trust me. Look let me visit, if I can fix the issue then that's great. And if I can't Mr Lee don't even need to know I was there," you said down the phone. "I know your scared and I could maybe help free you from the fear your experiencing," You pleaded. "Ok," he reluctantly agreed. "But I would rather come to you instead of mine, incase it's too much for you," he replied as you agreed.

Waiting for the door to go you found him stood there, the face you hadn't seen in weeks. He was standing right behind Mr Kim who walked into your home with him following.

"Thanks for coming Mr Kim," you said as you sat down in the living room, your eyes between him and Eric. "He's called Sehyoon," Eric muttered for attention. "You can talk with me comfortably, call me Sehyoon," he said sitting down. Eric looked at you with the expression told you so, on his features. "Ok," you said smiling at him unsure of his reason to be attached this second to Eric. "Do you know a Eric Sohn by any chance?" You asked as Sehyoon pursed his lips in thought. "No I don't think I do, my memory isn't always great though," he said softly. "Why do you ask?" Sehyoon asked as Eric smirked your way. "Just a name that popped into my head," you lied as Eric chuckled. "Just a name am I?" He replied arms folded as you tried to block him out. Why was he suddenly appearing and for a lot longer then before. Had your talent got stronger? "So how long have you lived in your home?" You asked. "Only a year, I should have taken note that it been on the market several times. But I saw the bargain fee to buy it and ran like a fool," Sehyoon said as Eric bit back a chuckle. "Greed gets a man every time," Eric spat out as you inwardly rolled your eyes. "How soon did things begin to happen?" You questioned further. "Instantly as soon as I paid for it, I would get these weird flash of things I couldn't understand, bizarre dreams. That was before even stepping into the home. Once I was there theirs this heavy darkness feeling, like I'm not wanted. Things get thrown, I see shadows and worse I dream of nothing but death," he whimpers. "That sounds awful," you reply sympathetically. "Sounds like you pissed off hell," Eric grumbles as you look to him with annoyance earning him to smirk as he pokes his tongue into his cheeks. Closing your eyes trying to ignore how attractive he looked then, your eyes take Sehyoon's looking slightly taken aback. "Can you see someone?" He asks as your eyes widen. "Don't worry he seems to be my problem ghost not yours," you bit out looking at Eric. "Yours? told you you were mine," he said winking seductively as you shook your head. "Anything else happened bizarrely?" You asked as he ponders for a second. "My art inspiration is threw the roof I draw so many different kind of arts. Which isn't abnormal but always includes cherubs," he says as Eric shuffles in his chair. "Look I can show you," he says as he gets his phone to show, but Eric grabs it from him. Sehyoon looks in fear at what possibly looks like a dangling phone in the air. Leaning over you snatch it from Eric himself, his view a little more tense. "Hey I want to be nosey," Eric said reapplying his composure. "Well do it on your time not mine," you bit out as Your eyes took Sehyoon. "It's ok this ones harmless I promise, annoying but harmless," you add looking to Eric briefly. Looking at the photos of his art work you saw all the different art work with cherubs being his feature. Then one photo had you freeze to the spot it was a drawing of Ivy swirls around cherubs? Just like the one you saw in the house when you passed out. Dropping the phone you looked to Eric as he had his eyes closed full of anger. "What's going on why is that here? you said shakey towards him.

But before you could reach your hand to touch his shoulder, he throws his hand towards you. Like it some sort of power it launches you towards the ceiling as Sehyoon whimpers terrified. "Eric," you cry out but he looks angry, his eyes growling red. "You're not evil," you whimper as you feel a pressure around your neck. "Don't search any further, I won't let you," he growls as the room gets colourful once more. Instead of fear you feel ready to greet him in his world.

Opening your eyes you see the curtains of the bedroom as you realised your in bed. Feeling the naked skin of a body behind you you look to find Eric. "Morning Princess,” he says as you smile turning to face him. Instead of questions words fall from your mouth as if he's yours. "Morning," you smile wrapping your arms around his waist letting his toned chest flush against your face. "Did you sleep ok?" He asks as you nod enjoying the warmth of his tight hold. You feel happiness and totally in love with him. "I’ve got to get up soon and start painting," you say feeling foreign because art isn't your thing. "Can't it wait just some minutes, I don't want to let you go yet," Eric chuckles as he peppers kisses along your forehead. "I won't say no to that," you say as your own lips press kisses to his chest. He cups your face to look at you as his lips fall to yours. They are soft as he slowly tenderly lets his mouth roam yours. Laying you on your back he lets his kisses fall down your chest. His member heavy against your thighs lets you know he wants to ravish you. You want nothing more to have him making love to you right this second.

But instead of making love to him you're in the room a little more darker as night is upon you. Paint brush in your hand as you tilt to look at the art work you've done. Long swirls of ivy which has taken weeks to do over two angel cherubs. "That's so Beautiful our two future babies'," Eric said back hugging you as his lips fall to your neck. "I thought you wanted more then two," you chuckle despite feeling a little uncomfortable. "I do but if it's just two you want then that's what we got to go with. As long as your happy and healthy and so are they then I don't care how many we have," he says spinning you to face him. He looks at you with pure devotion in his eyes as he strokes your hair. But you feel something saddening in the pitt of your stomach. Like if he knows he won't want you no more. "I love you so much my beautiful wife," he chuckles as your heart feels like it's about to explode. "I love you too Sohn," you reply going onto tip toes to kiss him passionately.

Suddenly the room is pitch black, Eric is sat in a pentagon in candlelight. His tears red and angry you make your way to comfort him. But your hand just goes through his body like your the ghost. "Eric snap out of it," you whimper scared on his behalf. "Please, please, god hates me. He won't listen, I want death. I’ll do what ever you want me to do. Just give me death, let me go from this horrible world," he begs tears falling down his eyes in pure pain. "Eric please don't wish for that," you sob as a tear falls down your eyes too. But you know he can't hear your voice.

Falling to the floor you still realise your in the dark room, Eric’s world still continuing. Your feet feel wet as you pull them to you. But instead of water theirs enough light from the street light shining in the opening of the curtain, that you can tell that it's blood on your hands. Fearing Eric's death at his own hands you leap up to search the body. But instead of finding him you freeze to the spot when you find yourself. Heavy breath above you you look up to find a outline of a man. “Knife in his hand still dripping in the blood of the version of you on the floor. "Who are you?" You cry out shakily in fear hoping death in this world doesn't mean the same out there. The door behind is opened briefly to let in enough light that shows the face of your murderer.

Throat tightening you almost choke when you see Eric’s face looking past you at who ever’s standing behind. "No, No you didn't, why, why when you said you loved me," you cried out in fear as you crawled slightly backwards as you slipped on the blood hitting your head on the floor board.

"Y/N," you hear to your relief Donghun’s voice as you wake up in his arms. "Is she ok?" You hear Sehyoon behind in fear. Your eyes open briefly as you feel lightheaded struggling for focus. But through them you see Eric looking in fear at you. "Why? Why did you kill me?" You whimper as your focus takes him in properly. "No ones killed you don't be dramatic," Donghun said unaware of Eric's presence. "Eric answer me," you demand as you see tears fall down his eyes. "See I told you it's was some ghost called Eric. She said it was her problem ghost," Sehyoon said behind you. "Sorry, sorry," Eric said before allowing himself to disappear.

"Y/N what are you seeing?" Donghun asks shaking you. "He killed me," you whisper unsure what you saw even if you knew enough it wasn't real. "But I know he didn't mean to," you add as he tilts his head down towards you. "Who? this Eric guy?" Donghun asks for confirmation. "We were in love, crazy in love, and then he just killed me, he killed me after he asked for the devil. Wait was I the sacrifice," you splutter out as words was floating around your head, none of it really making sense. "Woah slow down your confusing me," Donghun said out. "But first let's get you off the floor," he said helping you to sit on a chair next to Sehyoon. "What happened, start from the beginning, don't leave anything out," he demands as you and Sehyoon explain the events that unfolded. Donghun stays silent listening occasionally throwing his hand through his hair looking uncomfortable. "Right let's get you something to eat, I will ring Byeongkwan and then we will go through this again,” he said as he looked to Sehyoon. "Thanks for ringing me, but I can handle it from now," he said to him. "Ok, let me know how you are later ok?" He says looking towards you as you smile his way. "No she won't. I knew she was too weak for this all, I don't want her part of this," Donghun ordered. "Donghun," you cried out as he put his hand to you to shhh you. "Ok I won't, I promise. I don’t want her hurt anymore," Sehyoon said standing up looking distraught. "I'll see myself out," he said, taking one look at you before he walked out. "Part of this? I'm already part of this Eric made sure of that," you cry out. "Or have you forgot he's my spirit not Sehyoon's," you add as he leans his head into his hands. "Donghun this is my job to fix this, my job to sort this," you said touching his shoulder as he glances at you. "Y/N your out your depth, this is Changmin and Byeongkwan's area of expertise to sort out,” Donghun says seriously. "But it's not happening to them it's happening to me, like you wanted it to. You were the one that took me to those woods," you shot out as he stood up straight. "And I regret it I truly do, because now you have an vengeful spirit attachment," Donghun says with deep concern laced in his voice. "Eric isn't vengeful," you spat out refusing to believe that despite everything you had witnessed. "Yeah because a friendly ghost pins their victim to the ceiling unconsciously. Takes her god knows where to witness her own future death," he shouts out. "Don't you get it if you saw your own death he's predicting it," Donghun continue shaking with anger. "How can he be vengeful if he’s pre-warning me, he's clearly trying to find a way to stop it happening. Which is easy because I just avoid falling in love with him then it won't happen," you spat out still numb and confused to what you viewed. "Love with him pfft," he added rather annoyed. "Well At least he acknowledged me, so it’s not that hard to think possible," you reply. "He's a ghost Y/N one who keeps hurting you, one we can't read or understand or know anything about him to that fact," Donghun says looking close to losing the will to live. "He has no footprint. No Eric Sohn has ever lived, not one that fits your descriptions," he says his eyes heavily focused on you. "What are you saying he gave me a false name to hide his evil background?" You question as he looks at you with a widened eyes smile, pointing out the obvious. "No, your men just are not talented like you think," you scoff out as he rolled his eyes hitting the table. "You've spent a few minutes in his company and suddenly he's an angel himself. Yet you've known me mostly all your life and can't trust me when I'm saying this is dangerous,” he says leaving words to fail you as silence falls. Enough’s enough we need to find a way to stop these sessions with Eric," Donghun said exhausted. "So no Sehyoon," he demanded.

"You going to remove yourself too?" You question arms folded. "What are you on about?" He asked rolling his eyes your way. "You forget that I've had these experiences with you too, in-fact more with you. You going to ban yourself from seeing me?" You ask as he chuckled mockingly. "As if I’m that lucky," he bit back hurting. "If you see me as the unluck in your life why did you come here then," you questioned hurt. "Because Sehyoon rang me crying in fear because my stupid ass friend was dead on the ceiling. What did you want me to do just go ok thanks for telling me just pray for her," he spat out. "You thought I was dead?" You asked more softly. "No I didn't, sehyoon did," he said more calmer. "But yes my heart did stop when I saw you on that ceiling silent and unconscious," he said looking up at you his hands looking like it wanted to touch you. "Because of Yuchan," he said trying to convince himself more then you. "You worried about me?” you said feeling confident to cup his face. His eyes watery looked your way. "It makes me feel good that you care about me," you whisper feeling the electricity shoot between you both. "I have to care about you I'm responsible for you," he reply's sounding once more like he’s convincing himself. "Please stop putting yourself in danger," he begs as a tear escapes. You press your forehead to his as he lets his hands fall to your shoulders. "I can't lose you too," he whimpers once more in pain. "You won't i promise," you said letting your lips touch his. As confidence you felt was alien to you hit through, you were taken back when he kissed you back. Tongues massaging yours as his hands pulled you closer to him. Hands falling to his back to grab hold of his T-shirt as you lose yourself.

He suddenly pushed you away looking at you with horror. "Sorry Y/N we can't, we shouldn't," he said standing from the chair as your eyes tried to search for his. "Donghun I like you, I always have," you said out unsure what was encouraging you to reveal yourself. "I can't do this," he said walking out the room as you threw your head to the table. What ever confidence you were sure Eric threw into you was in vain to bring your own rejection.

The living room door opened once more. Donghun returning. His eyes glazed over as he stormed towards you. "Fuck it," he growls as his lips hastily and much more desperate hit yours. His deep fierce kisses pushed you towards the walls, your hands falling to his hips as he rolled himself against you. Hands fall to his shirt as you remove in your heated passionate moment. Dragging your teeth down your lips at the naked top half on view. “You like?” he teases as you nod. "My turn," he growls as he pulls on your own as he hums with appreciation as he takes you in. Unzipping himself he pulls out his red angry cock. Your hands go to touch him, but he pulls your hands up above you. His lips taking a fresh amount of kisses before he continues. Pumping himself you let your bottoms fall as he smirks to himself. Flicking a leg behind his hip, his hands rest under the curve of your ass as he places his head by your entrance. Kissing you further he pushes in as you moan into his mouth.

But suddenly the kisses change to slow and tender, his vibe changing completely. His eyes red tinted as his expression switch to Eric's. He thrusts into you with desperation, fast heavy precise thrusts that have you crying in ecstasy. You watch as his view switches back to Donghun and your walls tighten around him. "Your mine," he says in Eric's voice and your torn from the seduction of them both. You should be terrified or scared but instead the view and sound of them both is having your walls choke around him. The difference in both of their moans a blended mixture of heaven to your ears. "Donghun," you cry out as you feel close to the edge. "You know it's me, say my name," Eric says as his face shifts back. "You belong to me, I will get you back to me again, I promise," he threatens. "Cum on this cock," he says nipping your jaw line as you meet his thrusts. "That's my good Princess," he coos as your hand finds his hair. But as they gel through, Donghun's features return. "Let go," he says deeply that has your stomach coil tight. Your high is so near. Lips fall back to your lips as they nip at you, the pitches of his high tells you he's close too. Growling as he fills you up with his warm cum spurs you into yours. Eric grabbing the last feature as your nails grip into his body convulsing violently as you fall apart from your orgasm. "That's right Princess, you came with me remember that," he whispers in to your ear as you lean onto him panting.

Silence fills the air as you both catch your breath. From the tone of his breathing you can tell it's Donghun back. "You should get some rest while I call Byeongkwan," Donghun said into the silence and sweet kisses he made against your crown. You nodded as you watched him get changed handing you your clothes back. "I’ll be outside taking this call ok. Please go to your room and get some sleep, You must be exhausted." He said reassuringly as you nodded. You watched him leave, your body rebelled falling into the wall.

What just happened? Did you sleep with Donghun or Eric? Or was it even both of them? The images Eric took you too earlier coming back to memory. Your mind felt like it was so overwhelmed with everything it couldn't even grasp what was going on. Who was Eric to you? Was Eric your future or was he your past?

----------------------🔺---------------- Donghun POV

"Byeongkwan we need to do something immediately, he’s going to kill her if we don't," you plead down the phone. "What's happened?" Your friend reply's as you close your eye trying to forget all the things you just saw. "I saw it with my own eyes, he’s going to use her as a sacrifice," Donghun cried out. "Please I can't lose her, we need to save her," you sob down the phone. "It's ok Hyung we got a plan, hold in there," he said reassuringly your way. Looking back towards the door to the house you closed your eyes adjusting to what just happened. You just allowed Eric Sohn to have Sex with the women you loved in your body.

Sequel Power Starved

Masterlist

A.C.E.'s Masterlist

[ofmanycol0rs]

watched lemonade mouth last night so i made them if they were a fic group lol <3

˙ ✩°˖🍋 the group !

Lemonade Mouth is a 5-member fictional co-ed band. They debuted in 2021 with the single Determinate. The group consists of Yeojin, Stella, Minah, Win, and Changmin.

✩. group name : Lemonade Mouth

✩. label : Rising Star Entertainment

✩. debut : Sour Face ( Determinate )

✩. fandom name : Lemonheads

˙ ✩°˖🍋 the members !

✩. wan yeojin ( main vocalist. 2000 )

✩. stella yamada ( lead guitarist. 2000 )

✩. mohini " minah " banjaree ( bass guitarist, lead vocalist. 2001 )

✩. gao " win " xiuwin ( keyboard, main rapper. 2000 )

✩. dae changmin ( maknae, drummer. 2002 )

˙ ✩°˖🍋 the discography !

sour face ✩. determinate

be heard be proud ✩. turn up the music

forget it! ✩. she's so gone

the art of you ✩. somebody

on the radio ✩. more than a band

STAR ✩. breakthrough

[hashimasims]

Elucea: No, this can't be happening. You can't be Absalom . . . he died . . . the story . . . Was it all a lie?

Elucea's thoughts were spiraling. Her grandfather, Changmin, called Absalom The Dark Lord, most associate that with evil, that couldn't be Taehyung. He was manipulative yes and did anything and everything to get what he wanted but he wasn't Evil, was he? Was he actually this Dark Lord and because she was his Mate he wasn't evil to her? She thinks Evil and instantly thinks of abuse, physical mostly which he's never hit her, but there was the mental and emotional aspect too, which he most certainly did that between trying to force her to get pregnant and then leaving, to do what exactly? He never answered her, just said there was something he had to take care of that took longer than expected. And he lied about not having cell service. How could she have forgotten about the time the phone HAD answered?

Taehyung: No, none of it was a lie. Nitäl and I had to go into hiding for a while. We had to make it seem like we, well at least I, had actually died. I thought if the man that killed you thought I went with you then he wouldn't come looking for us when you were reborn.

Elucea: But how would that be possible?

Taehyung: Because he isn't Mortal Elucea! You're acting like all of this is in a realm of impossibility, like none of this could ever happen to anyone, nevermind you! You seem like all of this belongs in some fairytale, not your life and to many, even now, YOU are the fairytale! Occults were no more than fiction just ten years ago and even now most of us try to hide what we are when we can and not out ourselves. Occults may be more openly accepted now but there are still too many who would rather see us in cages or eradicated. Even YOU hid what you are, pretending to be an actress in a costume while you were in university. Was it out of fear of becoming a permanent attraction at the aquarium?

Elucea: I can't . . . I need out . . . this is too much

Taehyung: ELUCEA WAIT!

Elucea runs out of the house and away from Taehyung. No, Absalom. The Vampire God. He thinks she's his lost love but she isn't, she can't be. Is the Bond between them even real or did he manufacture it? She catches the fastest loading screen home she could, not looking back, hoping he wouldn't follow.

Beginning|Previous|Next

[enbyjjunie]

DKB | MTL likely to spank their partner

requested

this is just my thoughts on the matter and it's okay if you disagree, this is just fiction. i'm not saying this is how dkb is and this post should not be taken seriously

if you like this, please consider sharing

(explanation/details under the cut)

MOST

D1

Harry-June

Heechan

Junseo

E-Chan

Yuku

GK

Lune

LEAST

Dongil is the most likely to actually lean into the spanking as a punishment. i have been leaning towards him being a brat tamer for the longest time and one of your biggest tools as a tamer is punishments, so i can see him being well-versed in spanking as a punishment. he also seems like the type to want to make sure he hits perfectly, so he would definitely have his partner over his knee to spank them, instead of it being during sex.

Harry is second highest up since he lives to pull reactions out of his partner, and what gives more of a reaction than a well-timed spank during sex? i can see him get really into pulling those reactions out of his partner, so maybe he'd get too into it and end up bruising them a little (also since who knows if he remembers to remove his rings), wanting more and more of his partner's gasps and cries at the spanks, he doesn't realise how many times he's already slapped their ass. also he would slap PERFECTLY, mostly hitting skin with his fingertips (we all see how much attention to details he dances with... that can apply to sex too)

Heechan would find it really fun and would love to play around with spanking his partner, but only if that was something they are super into too of course. if they are, then he would not hold back. he loves the feeling of his palm connecting to their ass in such a harsh manner. he would also loooove the view of the flesh of their ass jiggle after a slap. he uses spanking more as an enhancer to everything else he's doing, like making a thrust that much sharper by adding a slap to his partner's ass at the same time.

Junseo would not be into spanking that way. he would do it if he knew his partner was into it and even then it would never be about inflicting pain. he would still find it fun because he's a big guy and loves when he looks like one compared to his partner, and so seeing his big hand connect with their ass, covering way more skin than what was needed since his hand is just that large, it does something to him. he also just loves to make his partner feel good, and if they like when he spanks them during sex, he'll enjoy it more. (he also finds it hot when he can feel their body react to the slaps)

Changmin doesn't really like the idea of hurting his partner, but he is a huge softie and will fold if his partner really wants to be spanked. it's gonna take him some time to get used to and comfortable with, but he would do most things if it meant that his partner was happy and more satisfied. he's not gonna be the one who hits the hardest but he can be coached into decent slapping from what would be better described as love taps.

Yuku wouldn't spank his partner unless they really wanted him to. see, i see yuku as being a pleaser; what he wants most is to know that he's doing everything that his partner wants him to do, but spanking is a little out of his comfort zone. he would study hard if he was asked to do it, wanting to try and gather as much knowledge about how to have a good technique before venturing into it with someone else, wanting to be as good as he can be for his partner. he would be so nervous to do it at first though.

Gwanghyun would not want to do it. it doesn't turn him on in the slightest to spank his partner. he would at most grab harder onto them but he would not spank. sorry, but he is a lover not a... slapper? his hands would be running smoothly over his partner's skin, helping them move or stay in the perfect position and spanking would ruin his mood, his carefully curated, loving mood. the most spanking his partner would get from him is a playful one, not sexual at all, and not even harsh, probably while clothed and doing mundane things like washing dishes.

Lune? absolutely NOT! i'm sorry but he would rather get hand tattoos and go bald before he would spank his beloved partner. nahhh, spanking is a turn-off for him. hurting his partner, in general, is a big turn-off for him. he loves being gentle but firm with his partner, but never crosses the line that would inflict any kind of pain or discomfort. sex for him is about being comfortable with his partner and enjoying each other's bodies in a very soft and intimate way. his members on the other hand.... yeah they're on the other side of his aggression, no doubt.

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A/N: so, ngl i did this bc it was the easiest to do. i have been so so busy during December it's actually a joke... BUT i wanted you guys to know that i see your requests and i'm getting to them asap. i'm thinking that i'm gonna have the requests as top priority and then try and finish kinktober on the side since we're now gonna enter a whole new year, and it really shouldn't be everything that i do. i now know my own limits lmao. BUT YEAH all this to say that i'm gonna shift my focus onto your requests more :3

[gluion]

[part two] of linked arms and bruised hearts (you are the reason i keep on going) ➵ ji changmin

non-idol!ji changmin x reader, slight non-idol!jacob bae x reader

you and changmin have been best friends since high school, having seen each other at their best and worst. now in your second year of university, you are given the opportunity to work with the unattainable 5th-year you have had a crush on since—jacob bae. with your best friend on the receiving end of your rambles, you could only hope for something to come out of your time working with jacob. that is until changmin decides he wants something more out of his relationship with you.

genre/warnings ➵ friends to lovers, slow burn, so much FLUFF, afab reader (they/them pronouns), mentions of suggestive dreams, a lot of publication talk (sorry i am a writer), sunwoo is a STILL a shithead, a lot of sentimental talks between changmin and reader, so much platonic love in general!!, feelings are so weird, a lot of flashbacks, going back home for the winter break </3, too domestic (not for the faint of heart), if denial is a river in egypt then reader is SWIMMING in it, i'm afraid to say that reader is stupid (and can changmin just not hear?)

word count ➵ 27.7k words

parts ➵ check out the series masterlist

taglist ➵ @deoboyznet @kflixnet @blankjournal @winterchimez @sungbeam @miusgirl @jenoscafe

a/n ➵ expect some crazy realizations to happen! anyway, it took me three weeks to deliver this?? crazy!! i expected to only post two parts but i don't think tumblr can handle 45k words in one post </3 along with that, i wanted to get this out before i officially enter my 3rd year in uni!!! please expect for the third part to be delivered a little later since i need to prioritize my academics and newspaper work (and possibly another oneshot involving a kim sunwoo... oops?) hope you enjoy the CRAZY slow burn my lovelies. i would really appreciate it if you could take the time to like and reblog this post and the other parts!

want to be part of my taglist? send me an ask! main masterlist

Since Changmin had dreamt about you, he found himself unable to talk to you. Everything reminded him of you; the songs he would listen to on the way to school which you introduced him to; the cafe he would spend his free time in where you two usually studied; even phrases he would hear people say that you tend to frequent when speaking. It did not help that you were somewhat blowing up the group chat more than usual.

With all these reminders of you, Changmin always found his mind drifting back to the view of you in his dream. He has never seen you as a potential crush—let alone found you attractive. After all, he knew you when you first wore boxy glasses and cringe graphic tees (to which you donated).

You were never someone he desired. And yet, when you straddled him and said his name as if it were laced with nectar, you never left his mind. The imaginary tension between you two made him weak to the knees. And just from the fictional distance of your face from his, he could feel his breath hitch at the scenario constantly playing out in his head. That dream only pushed him to face thoughts he was not willing to entertain.

Over the days, you two have not been able to hang out. While he was trying to find ways to avoid you, you understood it as him being busy with his other obligations. That is until you spot him on campus.

Done with his last class for the day, Changmin exits the building with his eyes locked on the bus stop—his one ticket back home. He only cared to be snuggled into his sheets that were newly washed and fall into the shackles of a nap. That is until he hears someone call out his name.

As he looks for the source, his eyes land on you who is seated on one of the picnic tables with your laptop out. The moment you shoot him a smile, flashes of his dream play out; the way his name rolls off your tongue; the sensation of your breath that hovers over his lips; the legs that caged him in place. And suddenly, all he could do was point his thumb in the direction of the athletics center before he bolted. He could only hope that you do not cross paths with anyone from the dance team.

Clearly bummed out about not being able to spend some time with your best friend before your night class, you let out a sigh. You understood that he had a dance practice to worry about. With the way he seemed frazzled, it made sense that he was rushing to meet his team on time. That is until you are surprised by Sunwoo’s appearance at your table an hour later.

“Yo!” He greets you before taking a seat across from you, a bottle of green juice in his hands. “What are you up to?”

With a frown on your face, you ask, “Don’t you guys have practice?”

You are greeted by your best friend’s confused face before he brings out his phone. “I do?” He asks himself as he scrolls through it.

“Yeah, I saw Changmin like an hour ago and he seemed like he was rushing to the athletics center,” you sigh as you fix the document’s format that had your notes for the next class. “Unless I understood him wrong. I don’t even know, he kind of pointed somewhere and disappeared.”

Sunwoo hums as he types away on his phone. As he scratches the back of his head, you notice his expression shift into an all-knowing one. “Oh, it’s just for him and some other members. I think they’re just practicing a certain segment,” he shares before stowing his phone away.

“Anyway, I just remembered I have some work to catch up on so I’ll see you tomorrow or whenever!” And the next thing you know, your best friend left as quickly as he came. You stare at Sunwoo’s figure which continued to get smaller before he was out of sight. Before you could think much of his odd behavior, you were hit with the reality that you needed to attend class.

“Okay, you need to fess up on why you’re avoiding Y/N,” Sunwoo says as he enters Changmin’s room with a small yawn following.

Currently, Changmin is rolled up in his sheets as he scrolls through YouTube shorts on his phone. The sudden appearance of his best friend only made him frown. He did not expect to have Sunwoo pester him today, but he remembers the conversation he had with him through text not too long ago. 

zzoguri 🦝: are u at the dance studio? zzoguri 🦝: did coach change the plans? i thought today was our break qramzi 🐿️: yea there’s no practice zzoguri 🦝: okay so why did y/n just say you went to practice? qramzi 🐿️: i don’t want to talk about it zzoguri 🦝: spill or i tell them qramzi 🐿️: yah! can’t i have my own secrets? zzoguri 🦝: you can have secrets but i don’t know why you’re lying to y/n qramzi 🐿️: ugh fine qramzi 🐿️: i’ll tell you when i see you

“Sunwoo, couldn’t this wait until tomorrow?” Changmin groans before shooting his friend a glare. Sunwoo plops on his bed while he still wears his outside clothes, making him even more furious. “Yah, Kim Sunwoo! I just washed these sheets.”

He only shrugs and says, “Okay, that doesn’t matter. Now, tell me!” Changmin sighs over his best friend’s persistence.

Fully aware that Sunwoo was not planning to leave any time soon, he found himself pausing the shorts. He sat up and bit the inside of the cheek.

Out of all the people he had to talk to about this dilemma with you, he did not feel comfortable revealing it to Sunwoo—the one person who knew you inside and out. Who could blame him? Having to talk about his dream about you to your best friend since grade school put him in a spot where he was seriously debating on which situation is better: this or being eaten whole by a shark?

That is until Chanhee walks into the room with his eyes on his phone. “Changmin-ah, there’s this–oh, Sunwoo! You’re here.” His eyebrows shoot up at the sight. “Did I interrupt something?”

His appearance is only to be taken as a gift from the universe. With a victorious smile playing on Changmin’s lips, he shrugs before saying, “No, I was just telling Sunwoo that I’d see him tomorrow.”

But the man was not going to make this easy for him. “He’s avoiding Y/N.” As soon as those words leave his best friend’s (read: traitor for life’s) mouth, Chanhee gasps as he stares Changmin down.

“What?! Why?!” He says as he takes a seat on the bed. Sunwoo shrugs and points at the guy who was constantly dodging their questions.

Now under the scrutiny of his two best friends, Changmin had no choice but to answer. His hands seemed bound even if no visible ropes were holding them down. He scratches the back of his neck and says, “Just, don’t judge me. And don’t tell Y/N.” The two only give him a look as if he stated the obvious.

Changmin knew he could trust these two with any secret and trouble he faced. In the times he desperately needed to talk about stuff that should never concern you, he always found himself talking to them. However, them seeing his reluctance had them worried about what might have gone down between you and him.

“It’s just… this dream; it felt so real for a second,” he starts as he plays with the loose ends of his blanket.

And not even a second passes when Chanhee exclaims the words, “Oh my god, did you have a sex dream about Y/N?!” He eyes him up and down.

“W-what? No!”

“Oh, I see why you’ve been avoiding them,” Sunwoo chuckles, ignoring his best friend’s protests.

He grows frustrated as the two continue to jump into assumptions. “No, that’s not it! Won’t you let me finish?!” As soon as the two pipe down, he lets out a sigh.

“Nothing happened like that. We just… almost kissed,” he whispers those last words. This icky feeling he can only think of as shame starts to take over his limbs. But when hears a laugh leave Chanhee’s mouth, he furrowed his eyebrows.

“Almost?” Chanhee smacks Changmin’s arm. “Then why are you so tense? If nothing happened, then it shouldn’t be something to worry about.”

Sunwoo shakes his head before sharing his two cents. Clearly, he wanted to play the shithead in a situation like this (like he always does).“No way, I’m starting to think Changmin is developing a crush on Y/N.” He gives the stressed-out boy a teasing smile. “Aren’t you?”

“W-what?! No! I’m not, what the fuck?”

From his panicked answer, Chanhee shakes his head with a small smile on his face. “See, then it means nothing,” He attempts to calm the situation down as he stands up from the bed. “It’s normal to just have dreams like that. It won’t mean much unless you put meaning into it.”

His best friend is right; it is normal to have nonsensical dreams. Changmin has had dreams about outrageous events such as Gana (his pet poodle) learning how to talk, his sisters deciding to move back into the family home, and even coming face-to-face with his celebrity crush. These dreams are not always manifestations of what he desires—which is why he does not understand why he is still riled up about some dream where you two almost kissed.

“You know, Chanhee is right. I like to tease and all but it is normal,” Sunwoo starts off. “But you shouldn’t be avoiding Y/N because of it. It’s not fair to them, you know?”

All Changmin could do was hum as he looked down at his hands. Once again, his best friend is right; there should be no reason for him to avoid you when you did nothing wrong.

“I know. It all just felt weird, and I think I needed to find some time to get over it.” As he admits that to his friends, he is only met with their smiles.

“You’ll be fine,” Chanhee reassures him before ruffling his hair. “Just remember that it’s just Y/N. There’s nothing to be afraid of.”

It is easier said than done for Changmin to go back to his usual antics with you. No matter how many times Chanhee tried to reassure him, it felt like something was holding him back—the idea of you reading right through him. It is not like you know all his thoughts. But if he stood before you, he felt like he would be at your mercy—letting you know all of his desires without any chance to rethink his actions. That is why when you approach him and Sunwoo during lunch, he is thrown off guard.

It is not like he was not expecting you to see him. After all, the spot they were staying in is in a corner on campus where the friend group would spend breaks together. It is an old picnic table whose wood was covered in old graffiti and smudges. Changmin was sure that this table was the last old one on campus for its wood is discolored as sand. Placed in a secluded area on campus behind the athletics center but still close to the publication room, it became the perfect spot for your friend group.

Sunwoo looks up at you in the middle of slurping his ramyeon noodles as you set your hands down on the table. Unlike your usual collected look and happy-go-lucky nature, the two noticed your disheveled appearance; eyebags are unseemly heavier than usual; shoulders slouched from how fatigued you have been.

“Are you okay?” Sunwoo decides to ask as soon as you take a seat in front of the two. You only let out a groan before your head rests on crossed arms. Without having to hear a verbal answer from you, your two best friends shared a look of worry.

Changmin has to swallow his shame; he needs to know what is going on with you. He could not let a dream hold him back from checking up on you, especially at a time when you needed him the most.

So his hand reached out for your arm, rubbing it ever so slowly. “Hey, what’s up?”

As you let yourself look up at your two friends whose faces were full of concern, you let out a sigh. “I’m just stressed out. You know, it’s November already so I’ve got some heavier projects to accomplish.”

“And I’m assuming the pub work is added stress,” Sunwoo chimes in before taking another slurp of noodles.

You nod and say, “Yeah. Right now, Jacob’s schedule is entirely different from mine so we’ve been working separately for the most part.” As soon as your chin rests back on your crossed arms, you let out another sigh and stare off into nowhere. “I miss him,” you shyly admit to the two.

It was to be expected for you to miss Jacob. During your first coverage together, he helped in alleviating the stress that came with it. From his smiles and encouragement to his exquisite way with words, he made every minute feel like a breeze in summer. But surprisingly enough, you felt like you could breathe without him around.

Sunwoo rolls his eyes at your reveal. “Aish! Of course, you do.” With your eyes preoccupied with whatever caught your attention, he looks at Changmin and gives him a subtle smirk. All your best friend could do is stop comforting you to smack the other.

Interrupted by Sunwoo’s whine, you look back at the two and frown at the sight of him grabbing onto his arm while Changmin continues to eat his bibimbap. Before you could ask, Sunwoo looked at his phone.

“Ah, that’s the time already?!” He quickly gets out of his seat and shoves his phone into his pocket before grabbing his empty bowl of ramyeon. “I’m going to be late for my class!”

“What class?”

“3D Character Animation,” he answers Changmin with a groan following. As soon as he notices his best friend who only has a look of desperation plastered on his face, he could only hold back his giggle. “I’ll see you two!”

And with that, Changmin is left alone with you—the one who has occupied his mind since that night. The realization of him spending time with you for the first time since that dream came to him was starting to sink in. With no moment to swallow his shame, he let his eyes trail down to his bowl of beef, rice, and stir-fried vegetables.

“So, how about you?” Once you ask the question, all he does is shrug before taking a big bite of his food.

It is not unusual for your best friend to not be in the mood to talk, but you noticed something was off about his behavior. Since that one day he rushed to the athletics center, you could not shake off this odd gut feeling—it felt like something was eating you up inside. Yet, you could not pinpoint the reason behind it.

You have always felt confident in your friendship with Changmin. There has not been a grave instance where he seemingly threatened it. No matter how many times you quarreled over small details throughout your friendship, you two knew to trust each other wholeheartedly. But as soon as you bumped into Juyeon that same day, your anxieties turned into something real.

As soon as your night class was dismissed, you quickly made your way out of the classroom. The talk about inverted pyramids and ledes in your journalism class only made your head hurt. All you could think about is your sweet home that had the soft bed you wish to pass out on. The headphones you wore blasted the sweet melodies of “1 to 10” by DAY6—your pick-me-up song on days like these. Clearly drained from the day, you were hoping no one would bother you on your way to the parking lot.

That is until your eyes land on a boy who you have grown familiar with from short interactions on campus and at parties. “Oh, Juyeon!” You call out as you move your headphones to hang around your neck.

The boy who you were going to cross paths with looks in your direction. As soon as his cat-like eyes recognize you, he gives you a smile and jogs towards you. “Hi, Y/N. I didn’t expect to see you around here.”

“I usually park by the athletics center.”

Juyeon nods as he lets out a hum. “Did you just come from class?” After you nod, you decide to ask him the same question. “I just came from the dance studio. You know, practicing for the competition coming up.”

“Oh, were you with Changmin?”

That is when you are met with an answer you were not expecting. “Actually, there was no practice today. Coach let us have a bit of time to rest but I wanted to practice.”

When Juyeon reveals that, you cannot help but feel the anxiety start to pool in your stomach. To be fair, you might have misunderstood him when he rushed out. Changmin did not owe you anything, but you still cannot stop the ill feeling brewing inside you.

“Oh, I see,” you force a grin as you say those words. “Good luck, by the way! Rooting for you and the rest of the team.”

Juyeon gives you a smile with eyes squinted. “Thank you! I hope to see you in the crowd.” With that, you parted ways. You do not allow yourself to cry.

Ever since that day, you have not seen Changmin. In those weeks, you allowed your mind to come into every possible assumption—what if he is getting annoyed with you? What if he is struggling with his own problems? What if he just wants to be alone?

You wanted to respect him and his space, but the more this behavior kept on going, the more you allowed yourself to be ripped up by the speculations your anxiety-ridden mind has crafted. It did not help that you figured out that Sunwoo was covering for him on that day—the one guy you so desperately wanted to seek comfort in. And who is to say that Chanhee would not cover for his best friend as well?

Now with no one to go to, you allowed yourself to dwell on ideas surrounding Changmin’s avoidance. But you knew you had to swallow your pride.

“Ji Changmin.” As you call out his name in a tone he rarely hears, he looks up at you. It is rare for him to hear you say his full name like that—almost as if his mother is about to scold him. But he knew that this is not a case of standing guilty before his mother; it is a case of you calling attention to the elephant in the room.

“Let’s talk,” you say those words easily despite the crushing weight on your heart. For a moment, you let your words hit him. So when you see him finally drop his spoon down on the bowl, you realize he was ready to talk.

“Changmin, I need you to be honest with me.” You swallow down the lump in your throat—almost as if you were trying to get rid of the anxiety. “Are you avoiding me?”

As soon as you ask that question, Changmin shakes his head quickly with eyes full of worry. “Oh god, Y/N. I’m not. I-I didn’t mean to come off that way.”

“So you aren’t?”

Changmin sighs before he lets his hands reach toward yours. As he grabs hold of your hands, he says, “I mean, I just needed some time away from you.” Before you say any more, he interjects, “But not in the way you may think of it to be. It’s completely all on me—you did nothing wrong.”

“Then what’s wrong?” As soon as you ask him that question, you are met with silence. His eyes trail down to your linked hands. “Changmin,” you call out so that he looks right back into your eyes. He does not.

You shake your head and free one of your hands from his grasp. Your hand reaches out for the underside of his chin so that you could lift his face. And with that action, Changmin feels his breath hitch. 

With his eyes locked with yours and your hand holding his chin delicately like a freshly sprouted flower, he feels like he is transported back to his dream. Every action you seemingly do only reminds him of his fantasy of you. It does not help that your worried eyes looked like your nervous ones in his dream.

“Hey, are you okay?”

Once the question leaves your mouth, Changmin snaps out of his trance. He leans a little backward so that his chin slips out of your grasp. “Yes, sorry. It’s not because you did anything wrong.”

“Okay, but why avoid me then? You know you can talk to me, right?” And he knew that more than anyone. You have always offered him a place for him to talk no matter what it may be about. He did not owe you to share his thoughts, but he is forever in debt to you for opening such a space.

He sighs as he finally lets go of your hands. “It’s… embarrassing,” he whispers the last word with shame overtaking his body once more.

“It can’t be that bad,” you attempt to reassure him only to be met with him avoiding your gaze. “I mean, what’s there to be embarrassed about with me? You’ve known me my whole high school life—it can’t be worse than that.”

For a moment, Changmin contemplates. You had every right to think that way, but you had no idea of his intimate dream with you. He knew he could get out of this. And yet, he found himself defenseless against you.

“God, I can’t believe I’m saying this,” he whispers to himself. As he notices a frown appear on your face, he shakes his head. “Just, please do not judge when I say this.” Your frown stays, curious to hear what he has to say. “Before anything, I respect you, okay?”

When he says those words, you cannot help but let a chuckle slip out. “I know that, don’t worry.”

“Yes, but… ugh, I don’t know how to say this,” he mutters as he thinks about the best way to share what has been bothering him.

You reach out once more for his hand and hold onto it. “Changmin, it’s fine. Rip the bandaid out—for the both of us.”

He hesitates for a second. With the way his eyebrows are furrowed and his eyes filled with guilt, you can tell he was struggling to get the secret out. Before you could say any more, he spoke.

“I had this dream,” he waits for you to say something. When you do not interrupt, he takes it as a signal to continue. “It had you in it.”

It takes you a moment to process his words. Yet, before he could say more, you found yourself saying, “Oh.”

“Wait! It’s not what you think!” He blurts out before you could assume anymore. “I swear, I did not have that type of dream about you.”

When you decide to not interject, he takes it as an opportunity to continue. “God, it’s just that we almost… you know… kissed,” he whispers that last word as if it were a sin with downcast eyes.

“Is that why you’ve been avoiding me?” You finally ask him, earning a nod.

Silence then settles between you two. For a moment, he does not know if he should say something or if he should let it sit with you. There were so many thoughts traveling through his mind—he only expects you to be disgusted by him. And yet, your hand still held his.

For some reason, you cannot help but laugh at the revelation. Changmin finds himself looking up at you only to be met with your shaking head which is accompanied by a small smile. “God, you’re that worked up over an almost kiss?”

As soon as you ask that question, he is thrown off by your casual nature. It is as if you did not understand the gravity of this. “W-what? You wouldn’t be?” He is only met with you shaking your head once more.

“No, dumbass,” you chuckle as you retract your hand from his and ruffle his hair. “There’s no reason for you to get so embarrassed over a dream. It’s not like you can control it… unless?”

“Why would I want to kiss you?!”

The way Changmin physically reels as he says those words make you laugh. “See! Then your dream means nothing.” You smile as you let your chin rest on your arm that is propped up on the table. “If it helps, I’ve dreamt about you too.”

Your best friend cannot hide his shocked expression. The idea of you dreaming about him is something he has never entertained until your reveal. “You have? About what?”

“Secret.”

“Hey, I told you mine!”

You can only laugh at your best friend’s behavior. “I’m assuming you told Sunwoo, right?”

“Yeah,” he sighs. “He cornered me into telling him and Chanhee when he heard from you that I was “practicing.” It felt so weird to tell him.”

“Well, that’s Sunwoo for you. If it helps, he was also the first person I told about my dream of you.”

Changmin pouts at you while your grin remains the same. “I thought we were best friends.”

“Yeah,” you look at him up and down. “Until you decided to avoid me over a dream!”

“Okay, fair point,” he admits with a sheepish smile. “But I ended up telling you! Why won’t you tell me yours?”

You roll your eyes over his childish behavior and say, “Because mine is far more embarrassing than an “almost kiss” that you seemed to have with me.” With those words, he cannot help but be curious.

A frown now plastered on his face, his mind runs through every possible dream that could be more embarrassing than his. Nothing could possibly beat his dream of you—until his mind lands on a particular idea. With a small chuckle leaving his mouth, he asks, “Did you have a sex dream about me?”

“No.” The way you blurt out the word ruins the cover you built. And there is no way to save yourself from this mess.

“Oh my god, you did!” He exclaims with eyebrows raised over the revelation. “When did you have it?” When all he receives is an eye roll from you, he decides to push further. “C’mon! Like you said, my dream does not mean anything as much as yours doesn’t.”

You sigh out in frustration before you frown at the boy across from you. “First year of college—it was after I saw your recital where you performed “BOSS” by NCT,” you shyly admit as you avoid his gaze. Although you refuse to look at him, you can feel how his eyes bore into you.

“Really? You liked that fit on me?” He asks smugly to which you groan. “I’m kidding!” You roll your eyes once more as you let him finally take some spoonfuls of his bibimbap.

The silence that settles on you two is surprisingly comfortable. Despite the awkward revelations that came on both ends (most especially on yours), the stillness of it all does not make you sit in embarrassment.

“Thank you, though.” You finally look back at him. “I mean, thank you for telling me,” he says with a shy smile on his face.

Changmin has always been the type to keep his feelings to himself—the one to hide his shame away. You have always known that since you first knew him as Sunwoo’s friend. But you also knew that leaving a space for him to talk gave him opportunities to be vulnerable with you—all he needs is a little reminder.

You let out a sigh. “Just don’t avoid me like that again.”

“I won���t.” Changmin nods as he finishes his bibimbap. “Aren’t you going to eat?”

As you shrug, you are met with his frown. Before you could say anymore, you felt your phone buzz. While he observes the way your face shifts from exhaustion to pure euphoria, an ill feeling starts to poll in his stomach. “Nevermind, I’m going to grab lunch with Jacob.”

When those words slip out of your mouth, a weight is dropped right on top of his heart. The last time he felt like this was when Hwang Hyunjin was offered the center position for one of the routines that he was aiming for. He hates this feeling—why did he feel this way over how you mentioned Jacob’s name?

“You are? I thought your schedules were completely different,” he murmurs before his eyes drift back down to his bowl.

“Yeah, but he just texted asking if I wanted to grab lunch with him. Hopefully, we can work on the article after so that my life is easier.” You smile while you text away. Changmin only allows himself to hum.

“Are you okay if I go? Or do you want me to wait for you?”

When you ask that question, every part of him wants to tell you to stay. In the time he has avoided you, it is only now that he is starting to realize how much he missed hanging out with you. Every part of him only wanted to hold you close to him—to forever link arms with you every second of the day. But this is Changmin we’re talking about—he would never hold you back from what you want to do.

He shakes his head with a small smile as a cover-up. “No, you should go. I know you miss him.” As he sees your grin, he cannot help but feel his heart being tugged harshly. 

“Thank you!” You exclaim as you get off your seat. “I’ll update you!” And with that, you left your best friend. Now, he is left with thoughts and feelings he wishes to not entertain.

Before you met up with Jacob, you made sure to cover up your fatigue (thank god you brought some makeup) by hiding your dark circles. In contrast with the exhausted look that Changmin and Sunwoo previously saw, you presented yourself as you normally would when going to campus.

Now, you stand in front of a restaurant whose specialty lies in Korean fried chicken. Once you entered, you noticed that there were only a handful of students from your university. Other customers were those dressed in button-ups and slacks while some came in casual clothing.

As you look around, you spot the 5th-year who types away on his phone. The sight of him never fails to warm your heart. You walk towards him and greet him with a smile, “Hi, Jacob.”

When his eyes land on you, he flashes you that all-knowing smile (god, you will always be defenseless against him). “Oh, hi! Please take a seat.” He stashes his phone in his pocket. As soon as you take a seat, he says, “I already ordered the fried chicken and kimchi-jjigae just a few minutes ago, so it will probably be here soon.”

“Ah, thank you so much! I haven’t eaten the whole day,” you admit as you scratch the back of your neck. While you take a gulp of water, Jacob speaks up.

“You haven’t? Well, we’re gonna make sure you eat lots now,” he smiles at you which has you almost choking on your water—just almost. When you place the cup back down, you show him a shy smile.

Your relationship with Jacob has been complicated. Ever since that fateful night when he asked about your relationship with Changmin, something in the air shifted—it felt as if the aura he emits is different. Although his innocent praises stayed, he started to tell you things that made you melt from the inside out. From “Good job with the draft!” to “I like what you did with your hair today,” you did not know what to make of this new dynamic with him.

Still, a part of you wanted to hold back from pursuing anything. Despite getting to know him during the weeks you two worked together, you found yourself still valuing all his thoughts about you. In your mind, he is still the 4th-year who you idolized when you first entered the publication. 

“So, how are you?” You try to shift the conversation. “Have your professors been assigning you some heavy projects?”

Jacob nods and hums in affirmation. “I expected to have more free time since I’m in my 5th year. But surprisingly, my academics still take up a huge chunk of my time.” He sighs as he looks down at the table. “With my internship and the publication work, my schedule has been cramped.”

“I can only imagine.” And you only really could. You have always anticipated your senior year to be hectic as when Changmin and Chanhee were juggling their priorities the summer before their 4th year. The two never really got to enjoy that summer; they dreaded every day until the start of their senior year.

“What about you? How’s the final leg of the semester treating you?” As Jacob asks the question, you could only sigh. He could only chuckle. “I’m assuming it’s not going well for you also.”

You let out a groan before complaining, “Professors have this tendency to assign due dates for heavy projects before the actual finals season. I mean, I get it—they’re trying to do us a favor so that we can focus on actual finals but literally every prof is doing that.” As you were going on a tangent, you noticed Jacob starting to smile. “I just think that professors could have easily spaced out the workload.”

Before you could ask about what he is smiling about, an old woman comes to your table with a bowl of kimchi-jjigae and a basket of Korean fried chicken. Your stomach grumbles at the sight. As soon as she sets the two dishes down, she smiles and coos at the boy in front of you, pinching his cheeks. “My Jacob, I didn’t know you were having a date!”

Once those words leave her mouth, your eyes widen in shock. You could feel the heat rise to your cheeks all while Jacob smiles at the server. “Ah halmeoni, thank you for preparing such a good meal.” He does not make an effort to deny your lunch being a date—the butterflies start to swarm in your stomach.

“Of course, my sweet sweet boy.” She finally stops pinching his cheeks and smiles at you. “Please enjoy your date.” Before you could protest, she left the two of you to serve the other customers calling her.

You cannot find your voice. Somehow, you were scared to let a sound out in fear that your voice would crack from how the woman described this lunch. It did not help that Jacob went along with it. And what made you melt even more is when he poured you a bowl of kimchi-jjigae and placed a piece of chicken on your plate.

When you stare at Jacob who pours himself some stew, he only shoots you that godforsaken smile. You may not know what you want with Jacob at the end of all of this. But one thing is for sure though—you wanted this feeling to remain. 

It is 10:34 PM. You are seated in your living room watching an episode of Bluey while your laptop remains abandoned. During times of stress, you always found yourself watching this show for comfort. Its digestible plot and heartwarming nature found in each episode worked for your weak heart. That is until you hear your doorbell ring.

You were not expecting a delivery—let alone anyone at this time. As you got off the couch and walked towards the door, you peeked through the peephole only to see your best friend dressed up in a white shirt and grey jogging pants.

As soon as you open the door, you ask, “Changmin? Why the hell are you here?”

The last time you saw him was two weeks ago—the day you confronted him about his avoidance. Your friend group was preoccupied with hell season (read as “professors assigning heavy projects”) and extracurriculars, preventing you four from hanging out. 

It was a miracle that you and Jacob managed to wrap up your article on drinking culture amongst students just a few weeks after Halloween. Now, you two were rushed into finishing the joint article on hustle culture in student organizations so that it would be published in time before finals season comes.

In Chanhee’s case, he was assigned more coverages aside from the ones he had to work on with you two. He always swooped in on time to film and capture the moments and left as quickly as he could to handle his other duties. It is crazy how you two are in the same publication but barely see each other.

While you and Chanhee have been preoccupied with publication work, Changmin and Sunwoo have been practicing non-stop for their competition happening tomorrow. They have spent almost every night in the dance studio going over the same routine countless times; sweating through every shirt they had; exerting every muscle in them; enduring every bruise that came from dancing. That is why you do not understand why Changmin stood before you when his competition was happening tomorrow.

“I’m here to check up on you,” he says as he takes his shoes off and sets them aside before taking a step into your place. You close the door and frown at the boy who was making his way to your couch. “You’re watching Bluey? Now you need to tell me what’s going on.”

You sigh as you make your way beside him and plop down on the couch. “I’m just taking a break from work.”

“Is it the same one from last time? The drinking culture one?”

“Nope.” You pop the ‘p�� sound as you grab your laptop. “It’s about hustle culture in orgs,” as you say those words, your best friend could only chuckle. “Why? What’s so funny?”

He raises his eyebrows at you. “Don’t you think it’s funny how you’re writing about that when you have been working like crazy for the newspaper?” As he points it out, you only roll your eyes. “I know you’ve been writing non-stop, so why don’t you just take a break?”

You firmly shake your head and say, “I can’t; my break was watching Bluey.” While you type away, you could feel your best friend start to rest his head on your shoulder as he watches the show without you. Oddly enough, you felt all the knots in your body untie themselves—it was as if Changmin helped alleviate the stress by simply being present.

The episodes play out while you work; searching up synonyms for basic words like “say” or “work”; typing out phrases that sound right; deleting every unnecessary word to save you on characters. After two episodes ended, you could feel your best friend tug on your arm. You look to your right to see his concerned eyes. “C’mon, you can work on that tomorrow. I don’t want you to overwork yourself tonight.”

You only show him a small smile. He is right. Over the past weeks, you have found yourself staying up countless nights to balance your academics and publication work. Your friend group is well aware of this (since you have messaged them during the late hours), and they would always remind you to take breaks. Yet, you never did allow yourself to listen. A part of you felt like you needed to work every minute.

When you decide to not say anything, Changmin takes it as a sign to get off the couch. “C’mon, let’s go to the mart downstairs. You really need to take a break.”

“But–”

“No.” He grabs hold of your laptop and pries it away from your hands. As you whine, he only shakes his head. “Y/N, I know you. If you keep this up, you’re going to get sick. So for once, just listen to me.” Your best friend’s persistence is something that you could not battle against. And after you let out a sigh, you find yourself getting off the couch.

Now, you two were sitting inside the convenience store located on the ground floor of your apartment complex. While you ate away on your cup of ice cream, Changmin was munching on some bread with red beans in it.

“Aren’t you not allowed to be snacking late at night before your competition?” He only hums as he watches you chew on the wooden spoon. “Are you nervous about tomorrow?”

He shakes his head and says, “This isn’t about me—I’m here to ask about you.” You can only sigh over his behavior. Being put under the spotlight is something you always dread, especially when it comes to your own problems. Changmin, of all people, knew this—but he only corners you when it is necessary for you would only bottle it all up.

“What about we talk about everything?” When you are met with a frown, you whine, “Changmin, you know I hate it when I talk about this shit alone. Let me at least hear you out.”

For a moment, he remains frowning at you. But just like him, you are persistent. He sighs before giving in to your request. “Fine, shoot.”

“How are you feeling about tomorrow?”

He gives himself a moment to think over the question before answering with, “Oddly enough, I feel a bit more confident about the competition tomorrow.”

“Hey, that’s good!”

He chuckles as he looks down on his bread. “I know. I mean, a part of me is still nervous but I feel like it would be good to end this on a good note.” He finds himself smiling as he looks out the window. “I’m just hoping we secure that win, you know? Considering that I have several center parts–”

“Are you really trying to flex that right now?” You scoff as you twirl the wooden spoon. 

“I’m just saying.”

“Whatever, you’re not all that.”

“Do you see me commenting shit like that every time you talk about getting clean closes on your articles?”

As soon as your best friend looks at you, he is greeted with a frown on your face. “You always do. Be so for real right now.”

“Just because you always talk about it! Let me have my moment,” he says which only has you rolling your eyes. “But continuing before you interrupted me, I still want to do well. I want to win for my team—let the mark I leave be a good one.”

You understood where Changmin was coming from. Even if he talked about being a bit more relaxed, you knew that this competition still mattered to him as a graduating senior. His passion for dance is something you do not usually see from anyone. At the end of everything, he wanted to prove that his love for this activity is something to be acknowledged—all the time he has spent dancing is something worthy to commemorate.

“Hey, and you will,” you say as you bump shoulders with him. “I know you will do good.”

He lets a chuckle out. “I know I will do good when you’re there.”

“Calling me your lucky charm then?” You smirk as you chew on your wooden spoon. When you do not hear him say anything, you turn your head to look at him only to be met with his small smile.

“Yeah, I do.” Just like a bonfire on a cold night, his words warm your heart. You never expect him to go with it. And yet, the way he says the words so easily almost makes you smile.

In an attempt to not feed his ego, you roll your eyes and face away from him to hide your expression. Before you could say any more, he spoke. “Now that we talked about me, let’s talk about whatever you have going on.”

You sigh as you look out the window. “I don’t know. I mean, it’s just the stress of everything, you know?”

“Okay, so tell me about it—go through what’s bothering you one by one.” When he says those words, you cannot help but feel your heartstrings tug. It is during these times that you remember Changmin’s constant aid when you found yourself struggling in silence.

Despite being the talkative one in your friend group, you never liked to dive into your troubles. If anything, you liked to be the person who people went to for comfort versus the person who vents their struggles. Even in your early years of being friends with Sunwoo, he has known you to be the type of person who would discredit their problems. That is why it is not rare for you to sweep your difficulties under the rug. And every day, you always appreciate Sunwoo for being present in the moments you need him the most.

Funnily enough, the same goes for your best friend. Changmin was fine with talking about anything and everything unless it concerned his problems. He was the type of person to lock himself away in his low times—hide away so that he burdens no one. And yet, his walls would always break when you came into the picture. Because at the end of everything, you want to be the shoulder he can lean on. And just like you, he does the same for you.

Somehow, the universe gifted you someone who knew you from the inside and out—one who pushed you to the necessary limits that you needed to reach in order to grow. You could only hope he felt the same towards you.

Under his gaze, you finally found it within yourself to speak. “I don’t know what to feel.” You find yourself looking back at Changmin only to be greeted by his nod. “I mean, I don’t know what to feel about Jacob.”

You do not miss the way he frowns as you say the 5th-year’s name. “Go on,” he urges you to continue.

“I feel like–god, I don’t know how to say it.” You let your eyes trail back down to your cup of ice cream. “Ever since that Halloween party, I feel like something changed, you know? Like he’s still sweet but I feel so hyperaware that he might actually reciprocate whatever I’m feeling about him.”

Changmin only hums before he takes a bite of his bread. As soon as he swallows it down, he says, “You’re not happy about your crush showing some interest in you?”

You shake your head before admitting, “Crazily enough, I feel more scared.” You do not allow your eyes to meet with his. “Like, I love the feeling of spending time with him. But when I remember what he said at the party and all the other times he has said something almost flirtatious in nature, I feel myself freeze up.”

“Okay, why do you think that?”

You find yourself shrugging. “I feel like I still think of him as the 4th-year that I first found myself crushing on when I entered the publication. A part of me still puts him on this pedestal who I idolize versus a friend who I’ve gotten to know during my weeks working with him.”

You hate that it turned out this way. Every part of you wants to jump head-first into whatever you and Jacob have going on. And yet, you can never push him off the pedestal—almost as if he is forever rooted in that place. You are about to say more until you are met with a question that you do not expect.

“Do you, I don’t know, ever see yourself with him?” Once your best friend asks that, you cannot help but stare at him. “I know it’s a lot to consider.”

“No, you’re good,” you mumble as you let yourself look back out the window. “I… don’t know. Oddly enough, I don’t think I can see myself with anyone.” As soon as those words leave your mouth, you allow your eyes to meet Changmin’s which are only filled with worry.

“You don’t?”

It has only occurred to you that you have never mentioned this thought to him. Despite the many times you rambled to him about all your short-lived crushes, you never really had anything progress past that stage—let alone saw yourself pursuing them.

“Yeah, it’s weird,” you found yourself saying after finishing your last spoonful of ice cream. “To me, I’ve grown so accustomed to the idea that all my crushes will stay as crushes, you know? That’s what I’m familiar with.”

Silence engulfs you two for a moment. You let Changmin process what you just shared with him. But when you realize that he was not going to say anything, you chose to continue. “I have gone my whole life just doing work that I find it hard to even imagine a future where I’m not working.” You find yourself sighing. “Is it odd to think that I feel like I am put in this world for the sole reason to work?”

It is supposed to be a hypothetical question—until your best friend answers. “Y/N,” he calls your name out before his hand finds its way to yours. “You are more than your accomplishments, you know that right?” You look at him with eyes full of shock. There was not enough time for you to think of an answer as he continued to speak. “You are deserving of love—you always have been.”

You feel his hand grip yours a tad tighter. His fingers held your hand as if you could easily slip away. You knew it was his way of wanting you to hear him out—to believe his words.

It has been something you noticed since your second year in high school. You can remember the first time you finally started to pick up his small habits—from the way he likes to link arms with you to the way he tends to hit whoever is beside him whenever he is excited.

It is rare for him to firmly grip your hand. In the same way you would reserve these types of talks to be mainly with him, you could only hope that it was an action he reserved for you.

“I know that you may have gone your life under the impression that no one wants you in the way you hope, but there are people who love to have you in their lives. I know you value your work because I do too, but you aren’t just some commodification of labor—you are a burst of energy for Chanhee; a familiar presence for Sunwoo; a place of solace for me.” The more he continues with his tangent, the harder it gets for you to find the right words to say.

Somehow, he reads your thoughts and says, “I’m not saying you should dive in with whatever you have going on with Jacob hyung without understanding what you want from him. But I think you should at least entertain the idea that you can possibly have something with him.” He takes a moment to sigh as he draws circles on the back of your hand. “I just don’t want you to hold yourself back from getting something that you have deserved for so long just because it’s unfamiliar.”

And deep inside, you knew Changmin was right. He has always been the type to remind you that you do deserve happiness—whether it may be in whatever career path you decide to set on or hobbies you wish to pursue. And yet, you still hold yourself back from attaining something that stands right before you. Are you really part of the list of people who deserve happiness?

But you know that if you say anymore, the conversation would spiral down further. “I just,” you take a deep breath as you bring your linked hands closer to you. “I–I don’t know anymore. Maybe I just need time to just figure out whatever the fuck I’m feeling,” you chuckle as you look down at your hand that intertwines with his.

“And take all the time you need,” he whispers. Once you look at him, his gaze never falters. In those eyes you have grown accustomed to, you allow yourself to be exposed to him in ways that no one will ever have the privilege of seeing.

Your best friend smiles at you and says, “Come on, it’s getting late. I’ll bring you back to your place.” Once he stands up, he grabs your empty cup and wooden spoon with his plastic wrapper from the bread and throws them into the trash bin.

The walk back was silent—nothing needed to be said for you two were content with being in each other’s presence. When Changmin drops you off by your door, you smile at him. “Thank you for tonight. It kind of felt nice to have it finally out.”

He gives you a small shrug and says, “I’m always here to help you carry your burdens.” You cannot help but feel your heartstrings tug.

Before he could say more, you wrap your arms around him and pull him into a hug. He feels himself stiffen at the sudden action. And when he realizes that it is you who initiates the hug, he melts into it.

It is not rare for you two to hug—for you to initiate them, however, is a once-in-a-blue-moon experience. Although your best friend loves physical touch, it was never something you sought out. The most you ever did was link arms or hold hands—for you to bring him into a hug was unexpected.

As you feel his arms wrap around your waist, you allow yourself to release a shaky breath. Even if you were not a big fan of physical touch, a hug like this one will always bring you immense comfort. “Thank you,” you whisper into his shoulder. All he does is continue to embrace you.

Once you let go of him, he does the same. “I’ll see you tomorrow, my shining star.” As you say those words, Changmin cannot hide the smile that shows on his lips.

“I’ll wait for you, lucky charm.” You smile before entering your apartment. The moment the door shuts close, he starts walking away while fishing his phone out of his pocket. He dials one of his best friends and brings the phone close to his ear.

After three rings, he hears a groan from the other end of the line. “Changmin, it’s late. What do you want?” Sunwoo complains in his groggy voice.

“I think I’m fucked.”

“Ok–”

“I think I like Y/N.”

Changmin is met with silence. For a moment, he thinks Sunwoo hung up on him. That is until he says, “Expect me at your place in ten minutes.”

When you wake up, you expect to feel sluggish. But as soon as you start to feel your body ache, you realize that today was not going to go as planned.

“I don’t think I can make it,” you groaned out to your best friend who was on the other line as you waited for the thermometer to finalize its results regarding your temperature. “God, I’m so annoyed.”

“Aish, this is what you get for staying up so many nights!” Chanhee scolds you as you set your phone on speaker mode.

While you roll your eyes at his reprimanding, you hear a beep emit from the thermometer placed under your arm. Once you took it out, you could see that your temperature is at 39°C. You scratch the top of your head and say, “Fuck, I am sick.”

Unbeknownst to you, Chanhee was in the dance team’s dressing room seated near Changmin as he was getting his makeup done. Changmin furrowed his eyebrows at his best friend who was on call with you. “What’s wrong?” He whispers only to earn no response from Chanhee.

“God, don’t tell Changmin I’m not there,” you say as you store the thermometer away on your bedside table. You grab onto your phone to double-check if Chanhee was still on the line.

He attempts to joke and says, “Oh, so I can tell Sunwoo?”

You roll your eyes even if he cannot see your reaction. “Obviously not. I just–right now, they should not be worrying about me. It’s a big deal for them, especially Changmin.” As you whisper your best friend’s name, you could feel the guilt eating you apart. After last night’s conversation, you knew he would not be able to rest easy knowing you are sick. “Can you think of an excuse? Like maybe just say I’m running late?”

“I don’t know if I can,” He admits as he stares at the topic of the conversation who only has a look of concern. Before Changmin could say anything, he waved his hand at him. “Do you need me to book a delivery for you? Do you have some meds?”

As you peer over to your bedside table to look through the drawers, you notice some acetaminophen pills sealed up. “Yeah, I have enough to last me around three days.”

“I’ll bring some more when I visit you. What about soup?”

You sigh. “It’s okay; I can handle it. Just make sure to cheer them on for me.”

Chanhee bites on his lip as he stares back at Changmin who was starting to connect the dots. Based on the one-sided conversation, it was starting to make sense in his head what was going on—not only could you not make it to the competition but you were sick.

“Okay, I’ll see you later?” Chanhee finally asks. As soon as you hum, you decide to end the call. While you were under the impression that Changmin had no clue of your absence, the reality is that he was well aware of what was happening.

“They’re sick,” Changmin mutters to himself as he looks at himself through the mirror while Park Seonghwa, one of the makeup artists that work closely with the dance troupe, continues to pamper him.

His best friend sighs as he types away on his phone. “They don’t want you to worry about them. Just focus on the competition and we can visit them after.” As he said those words, Changmin could feel the anxiety start to brew within him; his heart started to feel heavy; his palms were getting sweaty; it almost felt like the walls were going to collapse on him.

Chanhee starts to notice that Changmin was drifting into a headspace that they wanted to absolutely avoid. “Seonghwa, can you excuse us?” Once the makeup artist nods and walks away to work on someone else, Chanhee quickly stands up from his seat and walks behind his panicked friend before holding onto his shoulders.

“Hey,” he calls out as he catches Changmin’s attention through the mirror. “I know that you’re worried about Y/N, but they’ll be fine. All they have is a fever. You though, you need to focus on your competition.”

“Okay but Y/N has never missed any of my competitions.”

Chanhee chuckles. “And you’ll be fine. You can always tell them about your win after, and I can record it just to show them.” But the thing is his best friend does not get why Changmin is worried about your absence.

He has been nervous about the competition since the morning came. But the idea of you being there provided him with immense comfort that he could tackle this. Without his lucky charm, he almost felt defenseless.

“I know you like them and all–”

“Huh?! That’s not the point!” Changmin quickly exclaims to cover up what Chanhee just babbled out. He whispers, “That’s not something you should be saying out loud.”

His best friend attempts to apologize. “Sorry! I just never see you act like this, so I thought all of this was coming from the fact that you like them now.”

Changmin only sighs as he looks back down to his hands that play with the hem of his shirt. “I don’t usually act like this because Y/N has always been present for every competition. And never once did the teams I joined place anything lower than silver.”

Chanhee cannot help but pout at him. “They’re almost like your lucky charm, is that it?” When he does not say anything, the best friend only sighs. “I don’t know if this will help, but why don’t you at least try to win without them? Instead of worrying about your missing lucky charm, take this opportunity to win this for them—for you, especially.”

Unbeknownst to the two, Sunwoo overheard a part of the conversation before he walked up to them. The two were briefly surprised by his sudden appearance. “Hey, you two,” he starts off before holding onto his best friend’s forearm who was seated on the chair.

“Changmin, I know you’re worried. If anything, I am too. I used to treat Y/N as my lucky charm since. They’ve been present for not only the dance competitions but my soccer tournaments in grade school.” He looks at Changmin with worried eyes. “There was this one time where Y/N didn’t show up because they got sick as well. On that day, I had a foul shot that caused the team’s chance to win.”

He sighs at the memory, remembering how much he cried to you on the landline. “In their comfort, they told me this: “You don’t need me to achieve the heights you’ve dreamed of.” And I think a part of me realized then that I put so much faith in someone who was only supporting me on the sidelines. At the end of everything, they want you to believe in yourself.”

As Sunwoo shares his memory with you, Changmin cannot help but think over the words you told Sunwoo. It is true that despite the skills he had, he always found himself second-guessing his capabilities as a dancer. And during the times he found himself doubting his abilities, you were always there to remind him of his worth. Not only did you do that for dance but even when you two still worked together for your high school’s publication. 

“Yeah, what matters most is that you win this, especially for yourself—this is your dream. No matter what happens, we will always be proud of you. We know how much time and effort you put into dance, and we’ll always marvel at what you do,” Chanhee speaks up. Since the conversation happened, Changmin finally found himself showing a small smile.

“Ah, there’s that smile,” Sunwoo points out, which only has Chanhee giggle. “C’mon, let’s just focus on making sure we get through this without any injuries. Win or lose, we still did well, okay?” Sunwoo raises his fist for his best friend to fist bump. Once he does so, Sunwoo smiles.

Chanhee smiles at the sight of him and his two best friends huddled together through the mirror. In the time he has gotten to know your friend group, he realized that all the bantering is just a coverup for how much love is shared between you three. Despite the quarrels and internal struggles, your friend group always remained firm in the idea that to love is to reestablish each person’s independence.

No matter how many times you three believe you cannot survive without one another, the reality is that the achievements achieved are all due to each person’s capability—it is just nice to know that there will always be people to support you from the sidelines. As Chanhee was dragged into your friend group, he found himself cared for and supported in every aspect.

He leans his head on Sunwoo’s shoulder as he continues to hold onto Changmin’s shoulder. Although Sunwoo was startled by the sudden movement, he noticed the smile on his best friend’s face. “You guys will be okay.” And with those words leaving Chanhee’s mouth, the two could not help but feel a heavy weight on their hearts be lifted.

Sitting on the couch in your living room, you were all wrapped up in a blanket as you tried to type away on your laptop. Not only were you disappointed about missing Changmin and Sunwoo’s performance, you were stressed about your article’s due date which was two days from now.

Despite how sick you felt, you still needed to work on the task at hand. It almost felt as if the upcoming deadline was breathing down on your neck. You would hate to cause an inconvenience for both your editor and co-writer. 

Your phone vibrates. Expecting to get a call from the delivery person who was bringing some samgyetang from your favorite restaurant, you see Chanhee is calling you. As soon as you answer, you say, “How did it go?” When you are met with a sigh on the other end of the line, you could feel your heart get heavy.

“Y/N, I don’t know where Changmin is.” You feel yourself sit up straight as your best friend reveals that information. “The competition didn’t turn out well—they ended up placing last out of the five groups who participated.” Your eyes close in sorrow.

For a moment, you hear some muffled sounds until another voice speaks up. “As soon as they revealed the results, he left,” Sunwoo let out a sigh. “We’ve been trying to contact him but it keeps going straight to voicemail.”

“We’re planning to check the athletics center first and the picnic where we usually hang out before deciding to check back at my place.” Once Chanhee says that, you let out a hum. “Do you have any other places in mind that you think he’d be at?”

“Uh, I think the park near your apartment complex would be good to check out,” you start off. As you tried to think of more places, you felt yourself hitting a mental wall—you were too worried about your best friend. “I-I don’t know where else he could be.” As you whisper those words, the unbearable weight on your heart is accompanied by claws that make it ache.

You could hear someone sigh for a moment. “Okay, if you ever think of more places, just message us. Tell us also if you get a message from him,” Sunwoo tells you.

“And don’t go looking out for him. I mean it.” Every part of you wanted to argue with Chanhee. But with his harsh tone, you realized there was nothing you can do in this state. He is right, you are sick—now is not the best time to go out.

While you tried to process the news, you were starting to blame yourself for getting sick. Especially after last night’s conversation with Changmin (and how he thought of you as his lucky charm), you could do nothing but feel guilt swallow you whole.

“Okay,” you finally whisper back. And somehow, your best friends started to notice how worried you were with how you said that one word.

With a sigh, Sunwoo says, “He’ll be okay. It was just a bad day.” Before you could say more, he cuts you off. “And it’s not your fault.” You feel your bottom lip quiver. “The other teams just presented a better performance in comparison to us—we would have never expected it. So don’t carry the blame, lucky charm.” As he calls you that term, your heart aches.

When you were first called that by him, you could remember the joy you felt. You loved to support your best friend in any way you can, even if it meant being treated as the one reassuring presence that made him feel like he was guaranteed success. But what came with being a lucky charm was also the burden of the title—having someone put all their faith in you when you had no control almost felt anxiety-inducing.

So when Changmin coined that term on you, you could not help but experience that feeling once more. That is until you learned that your absence was as coincidental as their team losing in the said competition. 

“Take care, alright?” As soon as Chanhee says that, you let out a hum. The call ends and you are left to stare off into the open space in your living room. Yet, not even a minute after, you hear the doorbell ring.

You stood up from the couch with your blanket still wrapped around you as you sluggishly walked towards the front door. When you swing it open, you expect to see a plastic bag filled with containers of the food you ordered. But when you see Changmin with a sorrowful expression holding onto the said plastic bag, your breath hitches at the sight.

Just at the sight of him, you decide against saying anything. With his shoes off, you only take a step to the side so that he could enter your place. You shut the door right after he enters and walk slowly to the boy who was placing your food on the kitchen counter. He was dressed up in an all-black outfit you could only presume to be the same outfit he performed in a few hours ago.

The silence is deafening; you are too afraid to let out a sound. As you watch your best friend keep his composure while he tries to prepare your food, dark limbs consume you and push you into a hole of guilt and sorrow. While he was still struggling to come to terms with placing last, he still was going out of his way to take care of you.

You took some steps forward so that you could be closer to him. While he opened containers containing samgyetang, kimchi, and more, you stood right behind him. And before he knows it, he feels your arms wrap around his waist and hug him from behind.

With that one simple action, he stopped whatever he was doing. You let your chin rest on his shoulder as you look down at his hands that were starting to tremble. As soon as you notice his head start to dip down, you knew he was going to cry. All while his body started to shake, you could only hug him.

“It’s okay,” you finally whisper to him.

It is rare to see Changmin cry. During your time growing up with him, you can only remember a few times when he shed a few tears; due to stress from school and his internship; when Gana went missing for a few days; times when he was frustrated with a choreography he could not get the hang of. But with the way he was shaking, you were not expecting just a few tears.

As soon as you spin the boy to face you, you could see tears streaming down his face. In an attempt to stop the waterfall and any wails, he bites on his bottom lip. And you realize that Changmin desperately needed to be cared for. You pulled him into another hug so that his face was snuggled into the crook of your neck.

With your best friend sobbing, you held him close. In these times, you started to understand what he meant last night—you are a place of solace for him just as he is for you.

Over the days you were sick, your best friends have been taking care of you—Chanhee mainly handles your medications, Changmin cooks or orders food for you, and Sunwoo takes your temperature and helps you out when it comes to using the bathroom.

Due to your physical state, Sunwoo had to tell Kevin that you were sick and unable to fully deliver in time for your deadline. As soon as he revealed that your editor would help Jacob in taking over for your assigned parts, guilt consumed you since you burdened them. But they were insistent on making sure that you got enough rest.

Stuck in bed, you were watching another episode of Knowing Brothers on your iPad while Sunwoo was scrolling on his phone. Your two other best friends were out of your place busy doing some groceries for you and themselves. As you watch the crew continue to joke around, your phone vibrates. Upon grabbing it, you notice a notification from Jacob.

Now sitting up, your eyes widen at the sight of his name. “What’s wrong?” You hear Sunwoo ask. While you ignore him, you decide to open up the conversation.

cobcob 🐰: hi y/n! i hope you’re okay :] please don’t stress about the article. you did a lot and i’m glad i got to work with you this semester!! cobcob 🐰: hopefully we can work together again for the second sem 💗 cobcob 🐰: or even hang out outside of student journalist duties :] y/n: thank u jacob </3 im very sorry about this T__T y/n: i will make it up to you by treating you to lunch! cobcob 🐰: don’t treat me to lunch!! it’s fine 💗 cobcob 🐰: instead, let me take you out

The moment you gasp causes Sunwoo to get closer to you and peer over your shoulder. Before you could scold him, he gasps as well. “DID HE JUST ASK YOU OUT?!”

“YAH!” You shove your best friend away. “I didn’t even allow you to read my conversation!”

“Oh my god, Y/N! Who cares! How much has progressed between you two?!” He exclaims as he starts shaking your arm. “Have you been keeping secrets from me?!”

You roll your eyes. “I haven’t! There’s just not much worth mentioning,” you admitted shyly.

“Liar,” your best friend says with a frown. “I bet Changmin knows everything.”

“He does.”

Sunwoo gasps and shoves you. “I was joking! But now that I’m finding out that it’s true, I’m hurt. I thought we were besties.”

You let out a sigh. “Then I’ll tell you. But I swear, it’s not much to begin with.” As he raises his eyebrows at you, you take it as a sign to continue. “I told you about what happened at the Halloween party, right?”

“Something happened?!”

You give him a shy smile. “Oops?” Your best friend gasps once more and smacks your arm. “I thought I told you!”

“Well, you didn’t! Does Chanhee know?” When you do not answer, your best friend frowns. “I cannot believe you are keeping secrets from me!”

You laugh and say, “I’m sorry! I’ll give you a full recap—no details will be left out.”

With that, you decided to tell him about the events that happened during Eric’s Halloween party to your supposed informal “date” over fried chicken and kimchi-jjigae. As you told the story, your best friend would gasp and smack your arm every time you revealed a new detail. Sunwoo cannot help but be impressed by how much had gone on.

“I still can’t believe you decided to not tell me.”

You pout in an attempt to earn his forgiveness. “To be fair, we weren’t hanging out much because of different schedules. And I don’t know, I wouldn’t think too much about it until… now.”

It is true—you were trying to find ways to believe that this is just Jacob being friendly. It felt impossible to believe that your crush was trying to pursue you. But with his most recent message, you started to realize that you were blind to his advances after all.

“Well, did you reply?” As soon as your best friend asks that question, your eyes widen. You quickly take a look back down on your phone to see some unread messages from Jacob. 

cobcob 🐰: if you don’t want to though, it’s fine! cobcob 🐰: just let me know 💗

“Oh god, what do I say?” You ask out loud as you point your phone towards Sunwoo.

Your best friend groans and says, “You are hopeless!” You frown as you face your phone back toward you. “Do you want to go on a date with him?”

“Yeah,” you shyly admit.

“Then you know your answer!”

You raise your hand to stop him from saying any more. “Okay, but I was telling Changmin this the other day that I don’t know what to feel towards him.”

“Okay, what’s the problem?”

You sigh as you look over the same message. “Honestly, I don’t know. I feel like I still idolize him, and I don’t know if I really connected with him during our time working together.” You look up to your best friend. “Like he’s nice and I really enjoy talking to him, but I really do think I put him on this pedestal. I would like to think of him as a friend, but a part of me still sees him as the senior I had a stupid crush on.”

Sunwoo only hums as he thinks over your words. “What did Changmin say?”

“He was saying I can take my time figuring it out really.” Your best friend hums once more.

“I don’t think a date will do any harm,” he starts off. “I mean, it might help you figure out what you want after all. And it’s not like you need to figure it out then and there.”

Your best friend had a point; you could go on a date without any expectation to understand your feelings after. You let out a sigh before looking down once more at your phone. Once you type out your message, you send it without looking back.

“Done!” You exclaim as you let yourself fall back down on the bed. “Can’t believe I’m going on a date with him.”

Sunwoo only smiles at you before he goes back to his phone. Unbeknownst to you, he messages Changmin about what just occurred between you and Jacob.

It is 3:34 PM. It has been a few hours since you replied to Jacob’s message. Now, you and your three best friends were watching 2 Days & 1 Night in the living room while waiting for the food to come.

You were wrapped in your blanket as you rested your head on Changmin’s lap while he rested his hand on your shoulder, rubbing it in a circular motion. With your eyes still trained on the television screen, you remain unaware of all the glances and smirks your two other best friends were shooting at Changmin.

“What do you guys have planned for winter break?” You decide to ask as you continue to watch the variety show.

“I’m going to Pyeongchang with my family,” Sunwoo shares as he looks at you and Changmin.

“My family hates snow, so we’re going to Malaysia.”

You hum at Chanhee’s answer before turning your body so that you could face Changmin. “What about you?”

“I think I’m just staying at Cheongju. My noonas are coming back home for the winter.”

You gasp as you sit up and say, “Yuna and Hanhee are coming home?! Oh my god, I miss them!”

During your high school years growing close with Changmin, his sisters have grown fond of your presence. Despite the age difference, Yuna and Hanhee have taken care of you as much as they do with their brother. You ended up being part of the Ji family with how much they cared for you during your years in high school.

“Yeah,” he says with a smile. “I haven’t seen them since 2nd-year winter break.”

Before you could say anything, Sunwoo decides to ask you a question. “Oh yeah, aren’t you supposed to be going to Japan for the break?” You shake your head before resting your back on the couch.

“It didn’t push through because my parents are going to be out of the country for a business trip,” you sigh. “I’m just going to be here rotting.”

“Really? You don’t have other relatives to spend the break with?” Chanhee asks you.

You shake your head with a sigh following. For most of your life, your parents have been attentive to you. However, when you started going to university, they grew busier due to more demand and obligations. You do not hold it against them for having to cancel the winter break plans—it had to be done and you knew there would be another time to go to Japan.

“Why don’t you try spending it with Changmin’s family?” Sunwoo suggests which makes you snap out of your thoughts. Before you could say anything, he says, “I mean, the Ji family does love you. What do you think, Changmin?”

You turn your head towards Changmin whose eyes were trained on Sunwoo and eyebrows furrowed. “I don’t want to intrude, really. I’ll be fine–”

“No, it’s okay,” your best friend cuts off. As he looks back at you, he shoots you a smile. “I’m sure my family would not mind having you for the winter break.”

“Are you sure? I don’t mind staying here.”

Changmin rolls his eyes and says, “It’s okay, we love having you in the house.” You allow yourself to smile. “I’m sure they would love to see you after 2 years.”

With that, he wraps his arm around your waist and brings you closer to him. You rest your head on his shoulder and continue to watch the variety show playing on the screen, unaware of the smirks your two other friends had.

“Oh god, am I mixing this right?”

Jacob peers over your shoulder and looks at what you are doing. As soon as he sees the mess, he cannot hold back his laugh.

You exclaim as you look back at the boy behind you. “Are you laughing?!”

“You’re fine! It’s just that I thought you overmixed but it’s very undermixed.”

Before you continue with the task at hand, you roll your eyes. “I barely bake, okay?” You shoot a playful glare at the boy who stood beside you who was mixing up the frosting.

“And I don’t bake, too!” He attempts to defend himself and then nudges your shoulder. “But you have to admit, this is fun.” You cannot help but smile.

It has been a week since Jacob asked you out on a date. You were able to recover from your fever thanks to your friends (which was honestly just an excuse for them to have a slumber party at your place). It was fun though—you kind of miss having them in your place.

Now, you were in a bakery that Jacob would frequent. He grew closer to the couple that runs it due to his visits. And somehow, he managed to reserve the kitchen for only you two to use (under the supervision of the owners, of course).

You could not lie—the date is cute. It is not the usual “dine-and-talk��� that you have heard some of your friends go on. When Sunwoo went on his first date back in high school, you could remember how you and Changmin helped him plan it out.

“I don’t know what to do!” Sunwoo exclaims as he looks through his clothes. He moved every hanger, unsatisfied with every piece of clothing he had.

You and Changmin were lounging on Sunwoo’s twin bed with homework out while your best friend was having a dilemma. “I still can’t believe you managed to ask out Soojin,” you voice out as you were scribbling down the scientific names of common flowers. You nudge Changmin and ask, “Is this right?”

He takes a peek at your homework and lets out a chuckle. “You misspelled it. It’s Leucadendron—not Lucadeldron.” You roll your eyes as you erase your mistake.

“Science is not for me,” you say as you write the correct spelling.

“Yeah, well we all knew that,” Sunwoo mumbles under his breath as he still looks at his closet.

“Yah!” You grab a pillow and throw it at the guy. “Don’t you want us to help you?”

He turns around and frowns at you and Changmin. “I do, but you two aren’t even trying!” He points at the papers scattered on his bed. “How are you helping me if you’re studying?!”

Changmin sighs before dropping his pencil and getting off the bed. “Okay, what do you have in mind for tomorrow? Do you know where you’re going to take her?” As soon as Sunwoo shakes his head, you could only laugh in disbelief.

“You don’t have an idea?” Once you ask that, his eyes throw daggers in your direction. “I’m just shocked! To be fair, you have liked this girl since, so I thought you had something in mind.”

“Unfortunately, I don’t,” he sighs as he takes a seat on his bed. “This is terrible! I don’t want my first date to go bad.”

You and Changmin share a look as Sunwoo continues to wallow in anxiety. The two of you knew how much this means to your best friend. Who would not panic over going on a date with their long-time crush—let alone a first date? While Sunwoo was lost in his thoughts, Changmin pointed at his closet, giving you a silent signal that he would take care of his outfit.

“Okay, we’ll help you!” You scoot closer to Sunwoo and rest your hand on his shoulder. “Does she like to play board games? You can take her to the board game restaurant we always go to.”

“She doesn’t like playing board games.” He scratches the back of his neck. “She’s very competitive, and you know me.”

You sigh as you watch Changmin pull out a nice button-up shirt. “Well, does she like the aquarium?”

“She’s scared of fish.” As he says that, you tilt your head in confusion. “I don’t know. She once mentioned that she’s scared of the glass breaking.”

“Okay, can’t judge her entirely for that,” you chuckled under your breath as you thought about it more. You look over at Changmin who now holds three different hangers of clothing and decide to joke. “Changmin, do you have any ideas? Perhaps you’ve gone on a date?”

Your best friend looks over at you two as he still holds up some hangers of clothing. “Uh, yeah.” As he says that, your eyes widen in shock.

“You have?!” Sunwoo exclaims which has Changmin rolling his eyes.

“I was a sophomore when I went on a date with someone from the math honors society,” he answers as he raises a pair of jeans to envision the look he has in mind.

You gaped at him, in shock over what he revealed. “Goddamn, I thought you were bitchless.” Sunwoo cannot help but laugh beside you.

“Hey, that’s a good one.” As the two of you high-five, Changmin frowns.

“Yah! I’m not gonna give date ideas. You two figure it out,” he says as he continues to flip through whatever is in Sunwoo’s closet.

“No! C’mon, please! We won’t bully you anymore,” Sunwoo begs, only to be met with a sighing Changmin.

He looks over at the two of you once more who sat on the bed. “What does she like?”

Sunwoo hummed as he thought it over. “Well, she likes books, music, scrapbooking, and food.”

“Hm, you could bring her to the antique bookstore that Y/N and I always go to,” Changmin suggests only to earn a frown from Sunwoo. “Oh, I forgot that you hate reading.”

You tongue the inside of your cheek. “Well, you could also opt for a picnic date with some scrapbooking?” Your best friends look at you with eyebrows raised. “I mean, I should have some extra materials to spare since I stopped journaling.” When they continue to stare at you, you frown. “Jeez, don’t take my suggestion!”

“No, it’s good!” Changmin quickly says as he hangs the clothing pieces on the door for them to see. “I think this fit would be good for a picnic—fresh look!” The look is a navy blue collar shirt and a white tank top paired with beige jeans.

Sunwoo hums at the sight. “Damn, you guys are good with this, especially you,” he says as he looks at you.

Your eyebrows shoot up in confusion. “Me?”

“Yeah.” Changmin walks to the bed and goes back to answering his homework. “I wish I thought of doing that with someone,” he mutters under his breath.

You shrug and roll over. “To be fair, it’s something I would like. I don’t know if it is up Soojin’s alley, but it's worth a shot!”

Before you and Changmin could go back to work, Sunwoo jumps on you two which has you groaning. “Thanks, by the way. Once you guys go on future dates, I’ll help you out.”

You could only laugh as you continue to write some nonsensical names. “The day I go on a date is the day we know that nothing is real. Ain’t no way I’m finding love.”

And a few years later, you still could not believe you are on your first official date. Sunwoo did pull through; picking out some clothes; telling you what to do; easing your anxiety for the most part. You would have looped in Changmin for this but he was busy with schoolwork as finals season is approaching.

Since your best friends took care of you, you have not heard from him in a while. All you would get were short responses and excuses about why he could not talk or see you. You do not hold it against him though—he needed this time to focus on his thesis anyway.

“There we go!” Jacob exclaims as he looks over at your mixing bowl. “That looks good. We can pour it into the baking pan.” Once you nod, he moves the tray closer for you to pour into. Ever so slowly, the mixture created beautiful folds. The sight alone made you hungry.

“I’m so tempted to eat this cake batter up.” He laughs and takes the tray.

“We can’t have that happening! You need to wait,” he says as he walks closer to the oven that was preheated before you two started. You walk towards him to help in opening the oven so that he could place it in.

As soon as you shut it close, Jacob raises his hand for a high-five. “We did good,” you say as you high-five him back. “Hopefully, it turns out good.”

Jacob shrugs and says, “And if it doesn’t, I’d still be glad that we did this.” You only show him a small smile.

Everything in you wanted to agree with him. And yet, you hate that you could not agree with him wholeheartedly. You knew that your two best friends told you that you did not need to figure out your feelings for Jacob right after the first date. But oddly enough, you felt like pushing forward with him is almost like pushing mountains—unable to budge.

But it is not fair to completely shut him out without giving him another chance. At the end of everything, you want your first boyfriend to be him—you just needed time to rethink what you wanted. With that, you whisper, “Yeah, me too,” in hopes that all would be figured out.

At long last, you were done with the first semester. Oddly enough, you found yourself concluding finals season on a good note; saying goodbye to good groupmates and professors; acing projects you worked hard on; leaving classes with so much learned. The journey was not easy (and you would never want to experience it again), but you knew the next semester would be just as difficult.

Winter break came a week ago. Although Chanhee and Sunwoo already packed their bags and left as soon as it started, Changmin said that you two would leave as soon as the second week came in at the request of his parents. You did not mind waiting around, really. If anything, you were glad that you would be able to join them for the holidays.

It is 4:34 PM when you and Changmin arrive at Cheongju. As you take a deep breath of the air, you smile. It has been 2 years since you last stepped foot in this place. You notice that when you exhale, you see the air due to the cold temperature.

“Oh, I missed being here,” you mutter to yourself as you hold onto a hand-carry that carries your clothes for your seven-day stay in the Ji household. As you hear Changmin hum, you whip your head in his direction. For a moment, you swear he had his eyes on you briefly, but he was only looking off into the distance.

“Yeah,” he says with a small smile on his face. He fishes out his phone from his pocket and looks through his notifications. “I think Yuna noona should already be here. Let’s go to the pickup area.”

With that, you two drag your small luggage and make your way out of the train station to the curbside pickup point. Dozens of cars were lined up; some from those who resided in Cheongju while most were taxis. While Changmin was busy trying to get ahold of his sister, you stood close to him.

You have not told Changmin about what went down on your date with Jacob. The last time you talked about him was when you told your friends about him asking you on a date.

“So, I have some news to share with you all.”

You and your friends were sitting by the kitchen island with platters of gopchang and gimbap along with a bowl of ox bone soup. Since you were well from your fever, this would be the last night your friends were going to spend at your place. Everyone decided that today’s dinner should be good.

“What news?” Sunwoo asks with food in his mouth.

You say with furrowed eyebrows, “About my thing with Jacob.” Unbeknownst to you, your friends were already aware of what you were referring to.

“Your date with Jacob?”

As he says those words, you squeal before grabbing your phone. Once you open up your conversation with your crush, you hand off your phone to Changmin who is seated beside you. “I can’t believe he asked me out!”

Chanhee sighs and says, “I hate to break it to you, but Sunwoo already told us a few days ago.” With that revelation, you gasp.

“Are you serious, Kim Sunwoo?! I wanted to tell them!” You whine with your arms crossed.

The boy gives you a sheepish smile. “I just wanted to share the good news.” You roll your eyes at his response.

“I’m not going to tell you anything at this rate.”

With a pout on his face, he whines, “No! Don’t keep stuff from me, please.”

Before you could say anything, Changmin hands you your phone. “I’m happy for you,” he whispers with a small smile. You do not think much of his response, but when you notice your other best friends’ eyes on him, you cannot help but overthink.

When he continues to eat his food, the table falls into silence. For once, it was not comfortable at all.

Although you found yourself thinking about his reaction, you told yourself to not get too lost in your thoughts. There is no reason for you to rethink his words when all he has done is be honest with you. And if he was not ready to share something with you, you would be respectful of his boundaries.

Before you could get lost in your thoughts, you hear someone call out your name. “Y/N-ah!” As you look in the direction of where that sound came from, you see Yuna in a padded jacket. She stood by her car with a big smile on her face.

Without a thought, you grab onto Changmin’s hand with your free hand and jog to her. “Yuna! I’ve missed you!” You exclaim as you let go of your best friend’s hand and pull her into a hug.

“And I’ve missed you,” she responds as she holds you close to her. “I can’t believe it has been more than three years since I last saw you.”

Once you two let go of each other, she smiles at her brother and grabs onto his arm. “C’mon, give me a hug as well.” Although he rolls his eyes the moment she wraps her arms around him, he allows himself to melt in the hug. You knew how much he missed his sisters even if he would never admit it to them.

As soon as the two stop hugging each other, Yuna claps her hands. “C’mon, let’s get in the car. Eomma has been waiting for you two since the break started.”

As she gets in the driver’s seat, you and Changmin go to the trunk to stow away your luggage. Once you open it, Changmin grabs onto your luggage. “Let me,” he says. Before you could protest, he pulls it away from you and places your luggage neatly before he sets his down beside yours.

You smile at him the moment he closes the trunk. “Thanks.” All he does is smile and nudge your shoulder.

“You can pay me back by doing all my chores.”

“Yah!” As you scowl, all he does is laugh.

“Eomma! Y/N and Changmin are here!” Yuna calls out while she tries to remove her shoes. “You can put your shoes here,” she tells you as she points at the shoe rack. As you and Changmin set your shoes aside, she opens the door for you three. Before she goes off, she says, “I’ll just find eomma.”

When you first step into the Ji household, you notice that everything is almost the same as when you last visited; the walls were still off-white and littered with picture frames of the family throughout the years; the soban is the same one you remember stubbing your toe against during the dinners you were invited to; the aura that emits from being in this household is still as homey as ever.

A rush of nostalgia fills you—your heart aches nicely as you remember your memories in this home. But before you can reminisce, something snarls. Your eyes set on a poodle who runs in your direction, barking non-stop at you.

“Gana!” Your best friend exclaims as he crouches in front of his dog. Although the poodle continues to snarl at you, he only smiles as he holds his dog close to his chest. “I’ve missed you so much.”

You sigh with a frown on your face. “I think Gana forgot about me. He was never this aggressive back when I would visit.”

He only laughs as he continues to shower Gana with love. “I don’t think he ever liked you.” When he says those words, you gasp.

“Well, I don’t like him either!”

“That is a lie and we all know it. You want him to love you as much as he loves me,” he says as pets Gana.

Before you could say anything, you were interrupted by someone’s squeal. “Y/N-ah!” Your eyes rip away from the two and land on Changmin’s mom who is already rushing to you.

“Eomeoni!” You manage to say before she pulls you into a hug.

“What did I tell you about calling me that? Just call me eomma,” she says before letting you go. She pinches your cheeks with a big smile on her face. “Ah, you’ve grown so much since I last saw you.”

It is true. The last time you saw her was when you and Sunwoo graduated from high school. Changmin found time to go back home just in time to celebrate his best friends’ graduation. On that night, your families gathered for dinner to celebrate everything—whether small or big. You could remember that a few weeks later, you and Sunwoo had to pack your bags so that you could move to your apartments situated close to the university.

You smile at her and say, “Eomma, you’re still as young as when I last saw you.” With such flattery, she cannot help but grin at you.

As she lets go of your cheek, she shoots a smile at her son. “Changmin-ah,” she says while walking closer to him. Your best friend lets go of his dog and smiles at her. The moment he hugs her, you cannot help but feel your heart warm at the sight.

“Ah, you’re still as handsome as ever,” she coos, which has him blushing in embarrassment.

With a shy smile on his face, he says, “Eomma, you don’t need to say that in front of Y/N.” All you can do is giggle at your embarrassed friend while his mother ignores his request.

“Y/N-ah,” she says as she lets go of him. “You’ll be sleeping in Changmin’s room while he’ll sleep in the living room.”

Your eyes widen in shock as you attempt to protest. “Eomma, it’s okay! I’ll be fine sleeping in the living room.” She shakes her head as she grabs onto your hand.

“No, I already talked about this with Changmin on the phone. He said it’s fine.” As she reveals that information, you look at your best friend who only smiled at you. With a pout on your face, Changmin’s mom drags you to his room while you hold onto your luggage.

As she opens the door to Changmin’s room, you are met with the same room you stayed after every dismissal time. “I cleaned up a bit, but I didn’t want to mess with Changmin’s things,” his mom admits as you take a step into his room.

Similar to the rest of the household, nothing changed; the single bed that you, Changmin, and Sunwoo would work on was still pressed up against the wall; the black oak bookshelf that held his old books still had the carvings you three would leave every once in a while; the corkboard that hung on the wall still had pictures and tokens throughout his grade school and high school years; the wall mounted shelf that held his trophies and medals. In this room, you could see Changmin in every corner—the one you got to know back in high school and the one who you cared for even until now.

“Changmin might come in every once in a while to get some clothes, but I’ll make sure he respects your privacy.”

You let out a laugh at what she says. “Eomma, it’s okay. I don’t mind him bothering me. If anything, I need to thank him and you for allowing me to stay for the break.”

She gives you another smile and says, “Anytime.” She pinches your cheek once more (to which you smile) and walks out of the room, closing the door behind her.

You leave your hand-carry by the door as you look around the room once more. As you walk to the corkboard littered with photographs, you can spot ones with you and Sunwoo in them. Ranging from competitions to the first days of school, you smile at how much you three have grown through the years—from old uniforms and shabby haircuts to stylish clothing and redefined faces.

As your eyes scan through the other tokens such as ticket stubs and receipts, you spot cutouts of your articles along with his pictures that accompanied yours. Just from the sight, you cannot help but feel your heartstrings tug. You always knew he did this with your past collaborations, but seeing it after a while never fails to make you smile.

Although you try to rest your hand on the desk, your hand ends up hitting the handle of the drawer. You raise your head in pain and hiss at the sudden impact. “Shit,” you mutter to yourself.

Your eyes settle down on the drawer that is now slightly open. You were going to close it—you are not the type to snoop. But when you notice a paper that has the name of your university’s publication at the bottom corner, your hand reaches out to open the drawer further.

You could not believe what you were seeing—it is a cutup of your article on hustle culture in organizations. As your hand grabs onto it, you notice that there are more pieces of paper. While you sift through the cutouts, you realize it is all your articles during your time in the university’s publication.

Throughout your university life, you were always under the impression that Changmin would read your pieces—never keep them like how he did back in high school. And yet to see the stack of cutouts that had your byline had you like ice cream on a hot day. There were no right words to describe what you are feeling now for you did not even understand it. 

Still in shock, you stack them neatly in the drawer before shutting it close. Before you could recollect your thoughts, you hear the door swing open.

“Y/N?” Changmin calls out as his head peeks out. As he notices your shocked expression, he frowns. “Are you okay?”

You quickly show him a smile. “Yeah, I was just looking at the photos,” you lie as you point at the corkboard. “I can’t believe we were so young.”

He chuckles as he steps in, taking in his childhood room. Once he stands beside you, he takes a good look at his corkboard full of memories. “Do you remember when we took this?” With his finger pointing at a certain photograph, you cannot help but smile.

The picture was of you, Changmin, and Sunwoo having a picnic during the winter season—red noses and snowflakes on everyone’s hair. All dressed in padded jackets, you can remember how your fingers were about to fall off from the cold while you three attempted to do some scrapbooking.

“God, why did we even do that?”

Changmin nudges your shoulder. “Because you talked about wanting to go on a picnic before, remember?”

Once you look at him, you notice that he was already smiling at you. “For a date! And it didn’t have to be in the fucking cold,” you say as you roll your eyes.

“Hey, you still enjoyed it!” He exclaims to which you only sigh in defeat. It is true—you can remember how you almost cried over your friends preparing that picnic for you.

You used to be bothered by your uneventful love life (even if you did complain every once in a while). But when you remember what your friends did to remind you of their love for you, you realize that it is not bad to have nothing going on—you always have them to keep you company when you need it.

Before you could say anything, Changmin let out a sigh. “C’mon, we’re about to have dinner.” He grabs your hand before shooting you another smile. “I’m sure everyone wants to know everything about you.” You wish you could pinpoint the reason behind your heartstrings tugging. 

Everyone was gathered around the soban which carried a hearty spread of kimchi, bulgogi, jjajangmyeon, and yukgaejang. The sight of these deliciously prepared dishes had your mouth watering, but the smell of it all is to die for. Aside from the times Changmin has cooked you food when you were sick, you cannot remember the last time you had a homemade meal.

“Please, go eat!” Changmin’s dad says as he hands Changmin the bowl of spicy beef broth.

As you grin at his parents, you do not notice your best friend grabbing your bowl to pour some yukgaejang for you. You cannot help but stare at him as he pours the perfect amount of soup for you to eat.

“Thanks,” you whisper as he hands you back your bowl.

He shoots you a small smile before proceeding to do the same with everyone else. “Yah, that’s too much!” Yuna exclaims, which causes her brother to stop putting any more soup into her bowl. “You know how much Y/N wants but not how much I want?”

“Yuna noona, I don’t see you all the time,” he attempts to defend himself as he pours himself some soup while she berates him.

You wish you could comment—a bowl of soup should not mean that much. And yet, you cannot help but stare down at the bowl that holds the perfect amount for you.

“Hey, let’s not have this happen in front of our guest.” Changmin’s dad tries to break the quarrel. “Come on,” he says as he grabs the bowl of yukgaejang from his son. “I’ll take care of me and your eomma.”

Once Yuna was done grabbing some jjajangmyeon for herself, she passed the bowl to her brother. “What time is unnie and Byungho oppa coming home?” She asks while she places some bulgogi on her plate.

When Changmin grabs the right amount of black bean noodles for you, you give him a shy smile. “You know, you can get yourself some food first. I can handle getting my own.” All he does is shake his head, ignoring your request.

“Both of them should be arriving early in the morning,” Changmin’s dad says before taking a sip of the soup. “Ah, another good meal prepared by eomma.” As he says those words, your best friend’s mom cannot help but smile. You cannot help but smile at the sight of them in love.

After Changmin grabs his serving of jjajangmyeon, he takes the platter of bulgogi and places a few pieces on your plate before his. “Let me know if you ever want more,” he says before handing it off to his parents.

You shoot him a small smile before grabbing onto your bowl. Once you take a sip of the yukgaejang, you cannot help but moan—the spicy beef broth coats your tongue that has you hissing out of joy. “Eomma, it’s so good,” you say before taking another sip of the soup.

Changmin’s mom grins at you and says, “Thank you! Please eat well.”

As you all ate to your hearts’ and bellies’ contents, the Ji family would interview you and Changmin about all that has happened over the years. In the same way you expect to be bombarded with questions every time you visit your parents, you do not get overwhelmed by the interrogation. That is until the spotlight is put on your best friend.

“Changmin-ah, you’re already in your senior year—are you not dating anyone?” His mom asks which has him choking on his soup.

After you pat his back while he coughs, he says, “Eomma, I’ve been busy with school and dance.” As he says those words, his mother frowns.

“But what will happen after you graduate? College is the time to find that perfect someone!”

“Or maybe he’s still hung up on Suyeon,” Yuna snickers before taking a bite of her bulgogi.

Ji Suyeon—the girl from the math honors society that Changmin went on a date with. After he revealed to you and Sunwoo about his first date, you two did not stop interrogating him. What came as a big shock to Sunwoo is that he has gone on multiple dates with her—from dine-and-talks to board game ones.

But the biggest shocker for you is that they were together for a few weeks. When your best friend spoke of his past relationship, he did not hold any ill feelings toward her. The two ended their relationship on mutual terms—their priorities did not line up.

“Hey, I’m not!” Your best friend attempts to defend himself with a frown on his face. “I haven’t even thought about her in years.” Yuna only shrugs before going back to eating.

“Y/N-ah,” Changmin’s mom calls out, which has you looking at her. “You’re always with him. Does no one find him attractive there?”

You scratch the back of your head and manage to say a few words, “Uh, I’m sure people do find him handsome. But I wouldn’t know too much since he hasn’t mentioned anything.” With a sheepish smile on your face, you cannot help but feel your face burn at calling your best friend good-looking right in front of him and his family.

“Eomma,” he whines after taking a sip of his soup. “I’m not interested in anyone right now. If anything, aren’t you happy that I’m focused on my studies?”

She sighs, “But I don’t want you to be lonely. Did you know that your dad and I met in college?”

“Eomma, we know.” Yuna shakes her head as she grabs some more bulgogi. “You always talk about it.”

As soon as Changmin’s mom shoots a look at her husband, he sighs. “Your mom is only looking out for you, okay? She just doesn’t want you to miss out on finding the love of your life.”

Their son sighs at their words. For a moment, you do not know if you should step in and back him up. With your eyes on his side profile, you notice that he is deep in thought. But when he turns his head to face you, you feel yourself crumble under his stare.

“I’m happy with Y/N.” You cannot help but feel your eyes widen. Staring right back at him, you do not know what to make of his words. But he does not allow you to think about it as he chokes out the words, “And with the other friends I have.” He looks back at his family. “I’m sure I’ll figure it out, so no need to worry.”

With a smile on his face, his parents eventually let go of the topic. Although they continue to talk about the other things happening in their lives, you still find your mind pondering on the first half of his words.

It is 10:15 AM. You were in the kitchen helping Changmin’s mom prepare some kimchi for the next month. Although she kept denying your help, you kept insisting by saying that it is only right to help out with anything at home since they allowed you to stay over for the holidays.

“Like this, eomma?” You ask as you show her the cabbage coated in kimchi paste.

She looks at your work and nods. “You’re doing it right! Cover it in more paste and it will be good.” You follow her instructions and continue to coat the other cabbage leaves with the same amount of paste. “How are your parents?”

You look up at her with a small smile on your face. “They’re okay. I called them last night, and they wanted to thank you again for having me over.”

“Don’t even worry about it,” she says as she shakes her head. “I consider you family—whenever you need me, I’ll be there for you.”

You cannot help but smile at her words. It is true—Changmin’s mom has always been there for you and Sunwoo whenever you needed her. Even after Changmin graduated from high school, you two always found themselves in the Ji household. There were cases where your parents could not have dinner with you which meant eating with Changmin’s parents. You are thankful for them—they are your second family.

The sounds of her favorite radio station accompanied you two as you work. While you were focused on preparing the kimchi, you do not notice when someone enters the kitchen. “I thought you’d be more happy to see me.” When you look up, you cannot help but gasp at the person’s presence.

“Hanhee!” You exclaim as you quickly stand up from your seat. As she wraps her arms around you, you try to hug her back while making sure that no kimchi paste gets on her. “I’ve missed you so much.”

As she lets go of you, you see a big smile on her face. “My bestie, I’ve missed you.” You step aside so that her mom could hug her as well.

“My Hanhee,” she says as she gives her daughter a big hug. “Have you settled in already?”

Once Hanhee nods, the three of you take a seat. “So, how are you, Y/N? Is my brother still causing you trouble?” You can only laugh as you coat a cabbage leaf with kimchi paste.

“Well… he’s definitely something,” you speak as you work. “But I’m doing very well. He’s been a big help.” Hanhee hums as she watches you and her mom make some more kimchi. “What about you? How are you?”

She gives you two a smile before saying, “Surprisingly, I’m very happy where I am. Work can be stressful but… at least my fiancé is there to support me.”

“Fiancé?! You and Byungho are engaged?!” As you gasp, Changmin’s mom cannot help but laugh.

“Hanhee and Byungho recently got engaged,” she says as she removes her plastic gloves. “I’ll go get the container while you two talk.” As soon as she leaves the kitchen, Hanhee shoots you a smile.

“I’m so happy for you.”

She lets out a happy sigh. “I know, I can’t believe he proposed. Who would’ve expected that I would marry my best friend?”

As she says those words, your mind cannot help but drift to Changmin. The idea of him all dressed up in a suit as he stands by the—wait, why were you thinking about this? You briefly frown and shake your head at the thought.

“Honestly, you and Byungho are soulmates,” you say with a smile in an attempt to cover up for whatever had you in your thoughts.

She chuckles before asking, “Do you think my brother is your soulmate?” You cannot help but physically reel at her question which has her laughing. “Like, platonic soulmate, you know?”

You bite the inside of your cheek as you ponder her words. Changmin has always been your best friend—the reason why you are able to keep on going. In the same way Byungho and Hanhee support each other, you two always look out for each other. But would it be right to call him your soulmate?

Before you could answer, Yuna and Changmin came into the kitchen. “Hanhee noona,” your best friend says as he hugs his sister. “Where’s Byungho hyung?”

“Already looking for him? Why don’t you spend time with your noona?” Hanhee teases as she keeps her arms wrapped around him.

Yuna takes a seat beside you as she looks at the kimchi. “Wow, Y/N is helping eomma out while Changmin is lounging around.” She clicks her tongue which causes Changmin to frown at her.

“Hey, I didn’t know!” He attempts to defend himself. “Eomma usually doesn’t let me help out when it comes to kimchi.”

Hanhee shakes her head as she finally lets go of her brother. “Look at Y/N doing all that they can to help out while your lazy ass is just spending time with Gana.”

“To be fair, Gana misses me.”

“Gana misses everyone,” Yuna says as she rolls her eyes. “Why don’t you go help out appa and Byungho oppa outside?”

Changmin frowns at you three before saying, “I hate you three.” As soon as he leaves the kitchen, you and his sisters cannot help but laugh.

“It’s always so fun to rile him up,” Hanhee laughs.

“Honestly, it’s one of my favorite things to do every time we come back here.” Yuna smiles at you two. “Anyway, unnie, tell me what has been going on with you!” As the three of you talk about anything and everything, you do not forget about Hanhee’s question. For now, you will shove it to the back of your mind.

The next day comes. You and Changmin were on your way to pick up some food from a restaurant you two used to frequent back in high school. Since his mom had stuff to attend to, everyone agreed that it would be fine to have some takeout for today’s lunch. Although your best friend was supposed to go alone, you thought it would be good to join along (mainly because you wanted to explore the city with him as well).

“God, it still looks the same,” you say as you two were walking with linked arms. As you pass by the old mart you, Sunwoo, and Changmin would go to after school, you cannot help but gasp. “Even the mart is the same!”

Your best friend rolls his eyes over your excited behavior but cannot hide the smile that shows on his lips. “You’ve been gone for two years; I don’t think too much can change.”

“You never know!” You nudge your best friend’s shoulder. “Two years ago, I was still under the impression that Hanhee and Byungho were still girlfriend and boyfriend—not engaged.”

He shakes his head and lets out a sigh. “To be fair, I think we all expected that they would end up marrying each other.”

Before you could say anymore, you two finally arrived in front of the restaurant. The exterior of it still looked the same but old; the paint has chipped off of the letters; the wood’s color resembles sand; the fairy lights did not shine as brightly as they used to. And yet, you cannot help but smile at the place that sheltered your friend group.

As soon as Changmin swings the door open, you attempt to unlink your arm with his so that you could enter first. And yet, he makes sure that his hand still holds onto your arm. You cannot help but feel your heart warm at the action. Your best friend has always been the clingy type, so why are you feeling all of these now?

The moment you two enter, he links his arm once more with yours. The restaurant is small, only having six tables with each one having two chairs of their own. It seemed that there were only five customers in as they ate away on their tteokbokki and ramyeon. The cashier is manned by the one and only person who your friend group has grown close to over the high school years. Once his eyes trail up towards you two, the shock on his face is one for the books.

“Y/N-ah!” Minho, the owner of the restaurant, exclaims as he makes his way towards you. As soon as he reaches you, he wraps his arms around you two. You cannot help but melt in the hug. As soon as he lets go of you two, he looks at the boy who went back to linking arms with you and says, “Of course, Changmin! Oh, you grow even more handsome every time I see you.” Your best friend cannot help but give him a small smile.

“I’ve missed you, harabeoji.” As you pout, Minho cannot help but pinch your cheek.

“We’re here to pick up the food my dad ordered,” Your best friend says as he holds you close to his side.

Minho nods with a smile on his face. “Of course.” He makes his way back to the counter which you two follow. “It’s so nice to see you after so long,” he says as he grabs onto a plastic bag. “I see that time still treats you two well.” As he points at your linked arms, you cannot help but tilt your head in confusion. “I mean, I’m happy to see that you guys are together! I never knew you two liked each other that way.”

As soon as he says those words, your eyes widen. This cannot be happening again—what changed between you and Changmin to come off as a couple to almost everyone? You look at your best friend who stood beside you with a flustered expression.

“Ah no, it’s not like that,” he coughs out before grabbing onto the plastic bag that held containers of tteokbokki.

Once you look at Minho, you notice a disappointed expression on his face. “Oh, I see. But I’m still happy to see you two are still friends!”

Despite his attempt to clear up the awkward air, you cannot deny the unsettling feeling in your stomach. With people questioning the nature of your relationship with Changmin (along with the news of Minhee’s and Byungho’s engagement), you were not sure if what you have with him is platonic as you make it out to be.

It should not matter though. Whatever you have with Changmin is your business—not anyone else’s. What if your best friend always found himself linking arms with you? What if your best friend always takes care of you whenever you are drunk? What if your best friend still keeps newspaper clippings of what you write?

And what if you crave his presence? What if you care so much about what he feels? What if you cherish all of his competitions and wins? What if you did think of Changmin as your soulmate? But none of these should matter—what you two have is perfectly platonic. 

“Well, how long are you two staying here?” Minho snaps you out of your thoughts

With a bitter smile, your best friend says, “We’re only here until the end of this week.”

Minho cannot help but pout at his revelation. “I see,” he sighs. “But it’s still nice to see you, Y/N, especially after all these years.”

You shoot him a smile before saying, “Harabeoji, this might not be the last time I see you.” You take a quick glance at your best friend who seemed to have his eyes on you. “I’m sure Changmin and I can go here once more before we leave.”

“Ah, that’s my Y/N—still as caring as ever.” Your smile gets bigger as he says those words. “Tell your parents I say hi,” he tells your best friend to which he nods.

As soon as you two bid farewell to Minho, you make your way out of the restaurant, arms still linked with each other. Although the silence should have been comfortable, you cannot deny that Minho’s comment had you wondering about your relationship.

When the night comes, you are seated beside Changmin on his futon while Yuna, Hanhee, and Byungho stay on the couch. Changmin’s parents decided to call the day early and went to sleep early. It has been a while since you five last hung out together like this (while still missing Sunwoo).

“Sunwoo is pulling bitches?!” With the way Yuna exclaims, you cannot help but burst into laughter and lean on your best friend while Hanhee smacks her arm.

“Yah! Don’t be too loud when you curse!” The sister scowls before leaning back into the arms of her fiancé. Yuna frowns at her sister as she rubs on the spot where she was smacked. “But I can’t believe our little Sunwoo has grown up.”

You roll your eyes as you rest your chin on your best friend’s shoulder. “Barely,” you mutter, which only has Changmin chuckling. “He is unfortunately still as immature as he was in high school. I don’t know what people see in him.”

“I can only imagine,” Hanhee sighs. “But enough about Sunwoo, what about you? Has anyone stolen your little heart?”

When she raises that question, you cannot help but feel your cheeks get warm. As soon as the two sisters notice your flustered expression, they gasp. “Y/N! What have you been keeping from us?!” Hanhee exclaims, which makes Yuna scowl at her.

“I thought we agreed to not be too loud!”

Hanhee rolls her eyes and says, “Yeah, but that was before I found out that Y/N has a boyfriend!”

You lift your chin from Changmin’s shoulder and shake your head. “It’s not a boyfriend.”

“But it’s still someone, right?” Yuna shows you a teasing smile.

You feel your breath hitch in your throat. Jacob Bae is that supposed someone to you, right? So why could you not find it within yourself to answer the question?

“He’s a 5th-year student who works in the university’s newspaper,” your best friend takes over as he grabs hold of your hand that rests on the space between you two. Your heart warms at the action. “They’ve only gotten closer this year.”

The two sisters hum at the information their brother shares. “A senior, huh? I’m impressed,” Yuna says before looking at Hanhee. “Wasn’t Byungho oppa a senior when you first met him?”

The sister nods as she looks at her fiancé. “Yeah,” she mutters as the two smile at each other.

In that shared moment, your mind wanders off to how nice it would be to be secured in the idea of having an “each other.” Although you have accepted a possible reality where you will be forced to work to the bone, a part of you longed to still have someone who you could go back home to—you wish for a future where there will always be a place of solace curated just for you.

“For your information, your sister and I are only a year apart,” Byungho says as he finally rips his gaze away from Hanhee to look at Yuna. “But yes, I was a senior in high school. Imagine if Hanhee joined the chess club earlier—maybe we could’ve been together for longer.”

“Not even! I used to hate your guts when I first joined,” Hanhee argues despite Byungho’s arms still wrapped around her figure.

The fiancé chuckles before he snuggles his face into the side of her neck. “But we’re here after nine years—isn’t that funny to think about?” And truth be told, it is comical for you all in this room. Who would have imagined that the cocky (but loser) senior wooed the cold-hearted junior?

“God, get a room!” Yuna frowns as she throws a pillow at the two. “Ruined the mood for all of us single people here—aka me and Changmin.”

You pout at her before saying, “I’m also single.”

“Okay, but you have your senior!” She rolls her eyes as she stands up from the couch. “You all suck, I’m going to dip.” Despite everyone’s attempts to keep her from leaving, she retreated to her room as if she was never there.

Hanhee yawns before she looks down at her phone. “It’s only 10:45 PM? God, I am getting old.” Byungho chuckles the moment she sits up straight. As soon as she stands up from the couch, she grabs onto her fiancé’s arm and pulls him up.

“You kids,” she points at you and Changmin. “Do not stay up too late.”

Byungho rolls his eyes before wrapping his arms around her once more. “Don’t tell them what to do—let them enjoy their break to the fullest.” Despite the frown that stays on Hanhee’s face, she melts into his embrace as he drags them out of the room.

And there remained you two—his hand still intertwined with yours as if you were the last thing he could latch onto. The silence that wraps around you two is deafening, but you are scared to even let out a croak. You spend all the minutes second-guessing what should be done only for your best friend to beat you to it.

“I’m sorry, by the way.” As soon as those words leave his mouth, you cannot help but frown at him. “It wasn’t my place to reveal whatever you have going on with Jacob.”

You cannot help but pout before shaking your head in reassurance. “It’s okay. I’m going to be honest, I didn’t know what to say so I’m glad you took over.”

“You want to talk about it?” Once your best friend asks you that question with a bitter smile, every part of you unwraps itself from its shell—defenseless as a cub during the winter time. You would have bottled it up like always, but the late hours of the day held power unlike no other. In these times, you let every sentiment be shared with him.

“I–I don’t know,” you whisper with your eyes staring into the picture frame that rested on the wall—a picture of Changmin who you can only assume to be around five years old as he stood in a park with his baby blue shirt and orange backpack. You move your intertwined hands to your lap. “I thought it would be unfair to still be confused about how I feel towards Jacob, but the first date solidified my previous thoughts.”

You take a brief glance at the boy who sits beside you only to see that his eyes still remain on you. With no reaction from him, you take this as an opportunity to continue. “Is it weird to want him to be my first boyfriend? Even if I don’t know what to feel towards him?” You let your eyes zero in on your best friend whose shoulders seemingly tensed.

A voice within you was begging for him to know the right words to say, but when he whispers “I–I don’t know,” you find yourself lost in the end. Your best friend did not have the answers to every question you could possibly hold, so why did it matter that he had nothing to offer you now?

“I mean, what happened?” He chokes out the question as he moves his hand away from yours to wrap around your shoulder. “Did the date not go well?”

You shake your head as you watch his free hand reach out for your hand once more. In the way he cradles you, you felt all the walls you built collapse. “It went so well—that’s why I don’t understand what’s wrong with me.” You look back up at your best friend. “I thought that the date would reaffirm my crush on him. But now, I’m kind of left with more things I don’t understand.”

It is not like you went into this world with everything made crystal clear to you. If anything, life always brought uncertainties. But at this exact moment, you only wish for what is certain—what could that possibly be?

“Hey,” he whispers before bringing your head close to his lips. As he brings your temple to his lips, you cannot help but feel your eyes close at the sensation—his lips on your skin as if it were the only thing that could bring you warmth during a snowstorm.

This should not be happening; you knew that this crossed the boundary of what you two drew during your years of friendship. And yet, you wish it could stay like this—you beg for the universe to let it remain this way.

But just as things should be, his lips leave your temple. The absence has you flutter your eyes open. As he draws circles with his thumb on the back of your hand, he says, “I–I get it, there’s a lot of things you don’t understand right now, but don’t pressure yourself into anything.” He takes a deep breath. “Feelings are weird, so just take your time.”

He repeats the first advice he shared with you the night before his competition. And you have no issue with him saying it again, and again, and again because a part of you needed to come to terms with something you kept avoiding—what were you avoiding?

You cannot help but let out a chuckle as your eyes shut close. What would it take for you to be sure of something? Why could you not find yourself jumping head-first with the boy you have fantasized about for years? All these questions and no one could answer but you and the universe.

With eyes still closed, you sigh, “These feelings are going to end up being the reason why I don’t end up getting into a relationship.” Your best friend cannot help but chuckle as he continues his ministrations. “I just,” your eyes open and look down to his hand that wraps around yours. “I look at Minhee and Byungho and your parents, and I beg that I am lucky to have that.”

“And you will have that—it just takes time,” your best friend whispers into your hair. “It took them time.”

You let out a chuckle, and you do not think of the next words that leave your mouth. “God, if we’re still single when we’re thirty, let’s just get married.”

As soon as Changmin stops drawing circles on the back of your hand, that is when you are hit with the reality of what your words meant. What do you mean by getting married at the age of thirty? Why would you even think of getting married to your best friend in the first place?

And you almost blurt out an excuse, until he lets out a chuckle. “When I’m thirty or when you’re thirty?” Warmth occupies every space in your body—it is as if the sun has taken over the snowstorm.

“Maybe when I’m thirty.” You giggle before taking a look at your best friend who seemed to always have his eyes on you. “I might be able to find someone before I turn that age, so I can’t just marry you when I’m twenty-eight.”

He hums before he lets his eyes drift down to your linked hands. “Says the person who doesn’t even know how to feel about their crush liking them back.” As soon as the words drift out of his mouth, you cannot help but gasp.

“Hey!” You exclaim as you use your free hand to smack his arm. While he erupts into laughter, you roll your eyes. “Can’t believe you’re using that against me right now.”

His arm is still wrapped around your shoulders while his free hand still holds yours. You let yourself melt into his embrace before letting out a sigh. Once your head found its spot in the space between his head and shoulder, his chin ever so slightly rests on top of yours.

Nothing needs to be said—the silence that settles is just as comforting as the usual ones you two share. The snow falls; crystals form on the window panes; the night has grown chiller than ever. But you are glad that in the cold, you will always find warmth.

It is 2:26 PM when you and Changmin’s sisters come back home. The three of you decided to spend the day at the mall by yourselves, away from everyone else. In Yuna’s defense, she said that you three needed to have your own hangout without any interference. You had no complaints though—you love the sisters and their company (even more than you like spending time with Changmin).

You shook the snow off your hair as you three stepped into the warm Ji household. While you attempt to remove your shoes, Hanhee sniffles. “God, that was fun! It brings me back to old times.”

“I know, right?” Yuna sighs happily as she sets her shoes aside. She grabs everyone a pair of slippers and hands her sister her pair.

Before she can hand you one, she notices you still struggling to remove your shoes. “Come on,” she says as she reaches her hand out. “You can hand me the gift. I won’t do anything to ruin it.” You roll your eyes as you hand off the plastic bag.

A giggle leaves Hanhee’s mouth as you crouch down to undo the laces. “I’m just saying, I didn’t know you think about him that much—let alone at all.”

“I just thought he would like it,” you shyly admit as you finally get one shoe off. While you work on the other shoe, you say, “I knew he would get upset if I didn’t buy it for him.”

During your time at the mall, your mind was always on a singular thought—a person. In your time shopping with Hanhee and Yuna, you were always looking at items that a particular someone would like; chestnut keychains; small figurines from horror movies; plushies that resembled his pet poodle. You never realized it though, until the sisters had pointed it out for you.

“Since when did you like horror movies?” Your shoulders shoot up at the sudden question. You turn in panic to see Yuna frowning in confusion.

“H-huh? Oh, I don’t,” you say before pointing at the red-faced demon from Insidious. “I just know that Changmin likes the franchise, so I was figuring out whether or not to get it for him. But he doesn’t even collect to begin with.”

“Is that why you were also looking at the stuffed toy a while ago? The one that looks like our dog?” As she asks that question, you raise your eyebrows in shock. You did not know that they noticed you looking through the section that held a variety of animal plushies. Before you could ask, she squints her eyes in suspicion. “You know, I didn’t know you thought about my brother so much.”

“Huh? No, I don’t.” You reel back at her words. “I just know that he would be upset if I didn’t bring him back anything.”

Yuna hums as she continues to stare you down. “I mean, we’re bringing back hotteok for the whole family.”

Before she could say more, Hanhee comes in with a basket full of chocolates hanging off her arms. “Okay, I got what I needed! What about you guys?” Although you nod, there was a battle happening within you—you could not decide what to bring back home for your best friend.

“Just buy the plushie that looks like Gana,” Yuna suggests, which has you snapping out of your thoughts. “I’m sure Changmin would appreciate it since he always misses Gana whenever he leaves Cheongju.”

While Hanhee shoots a confused look at her sister, you let out a sigh before smiling. “Thank you.” While you were making your way back to where the plushies were, Yuna shared her observations with her older sister who could only gasp at the newfound information.

“Whatever you say, Y/N,” Hanhee hums as soon as you finally get your other shoe out. As soon as you set your shoes aside, you grab the slippers and plastic bag from Yuna with a small pout on your face.

You know that if you do not clear it up now, they will go on with their assumptions. With that, you let out a sigh. “It’s not like that,” you start. “I was just thinking that he would appreciate the gift. Also, he let me stay with you guys for the break.” A small smile takes over your face as you look down at the plastic bag.

Once you look back up at the two, you notice their smug expressions. “Whatever, let’s go in. The hotteok will get cold,” Yuna says before opening the door.

As soon as you three step in with slippers on your feet, you are greeted by Byungho whose hair is wet. “Oh, you three are back!” He gives Hanhee a peck on the lips which only has her smile.

“How was helping out appa in the garden?”

Byungho shrugs at Yuna as he wraps his arm around Hanhee’s waist. “Not bad.” But when Yuna raises her eyebrow in confusion, he finds himself fessing up. “Fine, it was hard. I didn’t know shoveling out snow took so much energy and time.”

Hanhee cannot help but shake her head. “Here,” she hands him the box of hotteok. “We thought of bringing back the family something.”

He smiles before unwrapping his arm around her. As he holds the box in his two hands, he says, “Eomma and appa are out to visit the neighbors, so I’ll make sure to save them some.”

“What about Changmin?”

The three look at you the moment you ask that question, only to see you fiddling with the plastic bag. “He’s napping,” Byungho says with a small smile.

You give him a nod before making your way to the living room. On the futon, you spot your best friend whose eyes were closed as he held his dog close to him. The two snore softly—almost as if they had nothing to worry about.

With a small smile on your face, you unzip your padded jacket and remove it before taking a seat on the wooden floor. Right where you sat, your face hovers over him. At this moment, you only realize now that Changmin has grown up since you first got to know him.

His features are the same yet different; his chestnut hair that is sprawled against the pillow is groomed better than his tacky haircut back in high school; the baby fat he used to have in his cheeks has almost vanished; his jaw is more defined than you first remember it to be.

But past all these changes, he is still the boy you worked with in your high school’s publication team; the one who manages to rile you up on the days you do not want your patience to be tested; the guy who has taken care of you after every party; the best friend who has permanently carved his place in your life.

As you continue to look at his sleeping figure while his sisters and Byungho continue to chatter away in the kitchen, you cannot help but feel your heart warm at the sight. The smile that shows on your lips is undeniable—anyone who could see you right now would misunderstand.

But the voice in the back of your head almost begs that everyone would misinterpret it all—god, what were you even thinking? How could you even think of such nonsense? And yet, you only push those questions further back in your mind. All you care about at that moment is him—not you.

When your hand reaches out to swoop away the hair that rests near his eyes, you notice how he frowns at the sudden sensation. You hold back a giggle and retract your hand. When you set the plastic bag down on the floor, it rustles. And before you know it, Gana’s eyes start to open.

The moment he sees you, he snarls and jumps out of your best friend’s grasp. The sudden action causes Changmin to slowly wake up from his nap. Upon hearing the barking, he quickly sits up only to see you in cahoots—your face is all scrunched up as you try to hold his dog back from chewing you up.

“Oh my god, Gana!” He exclaims as he quickly grabs his dog from your hands. Although his pet continues to snarl at you, he pets him in hopes that he will calm down.

“Gana hates me.” His eyes trail up only to see you shaking your head. “He’s so defensive when it comes to you.”

Your best friend cannot help but chuckle as he tries to distract his dog from your presence. With just a few more pats, Gana started to slowly calm down. “When did you guys get back?”

With how groggy he sounds, you cannot help but giggle. “Just a few minutes ago,” you start as you fold your padded jacket. “We have hotteok in the kitchen if you want.”

All he does is hum before kissing Gana’s head. “Go to Yuna noona, okay?” He talks in a baby-like voice and nuzzles his face once more into Gana’s head. Somehow, his pet poodle understood and ran off to the kitchen, leaving you two alone.

Your best friend’s eyes zero in on the plastic bag that settles on the floor. “What’s that?” With a small smile, you grab onto it.

“Well, when we were going shopping, I stumbled upon something that you might like,” you start as you twirl the bag around. “It was either this or some small figurine from Insidious.” Once you hand it to Changmin, he cannot help but frown in confusion.

As his hand reaches into the bag, his fingers graze against something soft. His frown gets deeper and you can only laugh. Once he pulls out the item, his eyes land on a brown stuffed toy—one that resembles Gana in almost every way possible. His mouth parts open as he spins the toy around to admire it.

“I know that whenever you leave Cheongju, you always find yourself missing Gana. So when I spotted this, I thought of buying it for you—just so that this can at least make up for his absence.” With his eyes still on the toy, you do not know if you should anymore. You take a deep breath before saying, “I also thought that it would be a good way to thank you. I mean, you let me crash your winter break.”

As soon as his eyes drift away from the plushie and then towards you, you let out a shy chuckle. “You know I just–”

And before you know it, he wraps his arms around your shoulders and brings you into that all-knowing warm embrace. You feel your breath hitch in your throat as he holds you close, but you remember that it is just him who has the privilege of holding you this close.

It is only a few seconds later that he realizes he has hugged you without you initiating it. Out of all people, he knew fully well that you were often uncomfortable during these situations. But before he can unwrap his arms around you, your arms wrap around his waist and hold him as close as you could.

The moment he feels you ease into the embrace makes him smile. “Thank you,” he whispers into your shoulder before nuzzling his face into the crook of your neck. As you feel his slow and steady breath on the right side of your neck, you cannot help but close your eyes.

You and Changmin knew each other in every way possible—in every aspect you two willingly shared. Every left shoe had to come with a right one; rain is followed with sunshine; linked arms always came with bruised hearts—there is no other way to capture you two.

It is 7:42 PM. Tomorrow, you and Changmin have to go back to your apartments since the second semester will commence three days from now. The time you spent in the Ji household is unlike no other—you hope you can visit again during the upcoming breaks. You did not want to say goodbye to it all; the home-cooked meals Changmin’s mom provided; the spicy tteokbokki Minho always prepared for you only; the town that you grew up in.

“I don’t want to go back tomorrow,” you whine as you stand in the kitchen while holding a cup of jujube tea that Hanhee prepared for you. “I just want to stay in Cheongju with you guys.”

The weather is still cold as ever; the crystals on the window panes have grown frustrating to look at; the snow that piles on the lawn is immovable; the idea of walking out of the house is unimaginable.

Yuna laughs while leaning on the kitchen counter before taking a sip of her tea. “You know we won’t be here either, right? You’ll be staying with our parents.”

“I don’t mind.”

The sisters shake their heads with smiles on their faces. “I’m sure our parents wouldn’t mind either, but you have to continue with your studies,” says Hanhee.

With a frown on your face, you retort, “Well, I could still drop out.”

She crosses her arms as she raises her eyebrows at you. “Okay, and you’ll do what?”

“Well,” you pause as you take a moment to think. You scrambled for ideas, only to blubber them out without a second thought.

“I could work with your dad with gardening stuff!”

Yuna scoffs, “You can’t even take care of plants.”

“Well, Minho would most definitely offer me a job at his restaurant.”

“Minho is not looking to hire someone,” Hanhee counters.

You scratch the back of your neck. “I’m sure someone will need me here.”

“And your parents will scold you for not continuing your education. Do you want that?” The moment Yuna asks you that has you pouting.

“I was just kidding,” you whisper before taking another sip of your tea.

The sister lets out a sigh before saying, “We know that. You know, just enjoy your college years! You’re only in your second year anyway.” While she shoots you a smile, you cannot help but frown. “I know, university is hard. I’ve gone through it all, but I would much prefer undergoing those years, again and again, rather than facing what adulthood has forced upon me.”

As soon as Yuna looks at her sister, Hanhee takes it as a sign to continue the thought. “Yeah, it’s not fun working an 8-5 hour desk job while having to worry about taxes or groceries.” When she thinks of more things to complain about, you notice the way she almost physically reels at the thought. “Jesus, I hate being a working adult. I realized I need to pay my statement to the bank every month and work ungodly hours to provide barely for me and Byungho.”

The moment your expression shifts from its frown to a terrified one, Yuna decides to cut her sister off. “Okay, let’s not scare Y/N too much,” she chuckles as she sets her cup on the counter. “Adulthood is scary, but you’ll get through it. Yeah, fuck having to pay bills or balancing chores all while working how many hours. But trust me, you will manage.”

Although Yuna attempts to ease your anxieties, you feel the floor swallow you whole. All the times you said you felt secure in your future—lies. It is always about deluding yourself into being okay with everything, but the reality is that you are dreading every second that passes.

“Oh my god, Y/N!” Hanhee snaps her fingers to get you out of your thoughts. When your eyes settle on her, you notice the small reassuring smile that rests on her lips. “I promise, you’ll be okay.” She walks to you and wraps her arm around you. “Most especially if you have someone to lean on throughout the journey.”

As she says those words, you frown. “What are you trying to insinuate?”

“Me?” She laughs as she drops her arm from your shoulders. “I’m not insinuating anything… unless you are?”

Everyone in the kitchen knew what her words entailed, and you did not want to acknowledge whatever they speculated about your feelings. You have full control over what you feel—you are not going to allow others’ opinions to influence you.

You roll your eyes before finishing the remnants of your tea. “Whatever,” you mutter as you wash the cup. “There’s nothing going on.” Once you set it aside to dry, you spin around to see the two raise their eyebrows at you.

“Whatever, we’ll leave you to your loverboy.” The moment Yuna says that makes you gasp, making your eyes face towards the living room where Changmin is busy playing with Gana.

“You can’t say that out loud!” You scold her as quietly as possible.

The sisters burst into giggles before taking their cups of tea in their hands. “We’re going to our rooms. You two have fun.” They do not attempt to listen to your protests as they make their way out of the kitchen. Now, you are left on your own while your friends think whatever they want to think.

As you let out a sigh, you allow your feet to take you to the living room. Upon entering, your eyes land on your best friend who sat in front of his dog while holding up the plushie you got him. His eyes hold every possible star in the universe as he plays with his one and only.

“Gana! Look at this, it’s you!” Changmin coos at his dog who only stares up at him in confusion. Although he shakes the toy at him, Gana stays stuck in place as he tilts his head.

Before you know it, you let out a chuckle at the sight. As your best friend turns his head towards you, he shoots you a grin—one that has been permanently stamped into your memories only for you to remember.

Once he diverts his attention from his pet, the dog cannot help but bark at him. He lets out a sigh before dropping the plushie and wrapping his arms around Gana. “You are so needy, you know that? Just like Y/N over there.” The moment he points at you makes you gasp.

“I am not needy.” Despite your attempt to defend yourself, your best friend only rolls his eyes.

“I’ve known you for five years. You are needy, even needier than Sunwoo,” he says, which only has you frowning. As he sees your expression shift, he cannot help but laugh. “C’mon, sit with me.”

When he says those words, the poodle in his arms starts to growl. “I don’t think that’s a good idea,” you say as you look back at the dog who has his eyes on you.

Despite Gana’s behavior, Changmin shakes his head before saying, “Trust me, just sit down.” With his pleading eyes staring right at you, you felt helpless to his requests. Even if a dog were to bite your hand off, you wanted to follow his requests. And somehow, you found yourself taking a seat on the floor right beside him.

Gana starts to bark which only makes you put some distance between you and Changmin. However, as your best friend starts to stroke the dog’s fur, you notice the way Gana starts to calm down.

“What we’re going to do today is get Gana used to you.” As the words leave his mouth, you look at him with wide eyes. Upon seeing your reaction, he cannot help but chuckle. “It is possible. You see the bag of treats on the coffee table?” You turn your head to spot what he was talking about. “Just get some—he’s usually weak to treats.”

You shoot him an unsure look, almost betting every poker chip that this would not go well. But when he shows you his reassuring smile, you feel all resolve crumble just like that. As your hand reaches out into the bag, you grab a small handful of dog treats.

“Okay, keep your hand closed first,” he says as soon as you bring your hand out. “Place it near Gana’s snout and he’ll smell the treats.” You follow his instructions, allowing the defensive dog to place his nose near your hand.

As soon as Gana gets a whiff of the dog treats, he continues to smell your hand. “Okay, you can open it now.” And as you follow his instructions, the poodle starts to eat the treats out of your hand. You cannot hide the shocked expression on your face. “See, he’ll start warming up to you.” Your eyes snap back up at Changmin who was smiling at his dog getting along with his best friend.

Since you first arrived at the Ji household, Gana has always remained hostile against you. And just after following your best friend’s instructions, the poodle was slowly getting used to you. You knew that Gana’s assertive nature only came from a place of wanting to protect his owner—who would not want to protect a boy like him?

This continued for a few more rounds until Changmin felt like that was enough treats for Gana to trust you. “Okay, let him sniff your hand once more.” As you follow his orders, his dog sniffs your skin. “Now, you can pet him.”

“Are you sure?” You ask as your eyes snap back up to him.

When you are only met with a nod, your eyes fall back on Gana who continues to sniff you. Once your hand raises from its position, you notice how his eyes follow it. The moment you find your hand stroking on the fur that rested on his back is almost as magical for everyone—the way Gana finds himself enjoying your touch is something you do not expect.

“Oh my god, he’s back to liking me again,” you whisper which has your best friend giggling.

Nothing needed to be said at that moment—the silence that falls on you three is comfortable. Your eyes always found themselves flickering between your best friend and his dog who only seemed to care about each other’s comfort. You do not miss the way Changmin smiles over how Gana closes his eyes at the sensation.

Seeing him like this—all soft and playful with someone he adores—tugs on your heartstrings. In your years of knowing him, you always knew of his soft spot for his dog. But something about this particular moment made it different. As your eyes zero in on the guy who sits next to you, you start to see every memory play out.

The first time you see him in your high school’s club room is almost an experience you will never forget. With the ways your hands clammed up at the sight of the intimidating boy, you can remember every thought running through your mind—the most memorable one being “resign from the newspaper team.” Can you believe it took you two being forced to work together that started your friendship?

You do not forget about all the times he came to you with a grin plastered on his face while he held the latest broadsheet that held your bylines together. With every article published, he never fails to mention how proud he is of you.

And with every dance competition you watch, you always see Changmin and Sunwoo achieve even higher than what their dreams set them up for. For every medal and trophy won, you never forget to tell the two how happy you are to have them as your best friends.

When Changmin’s graduation came, you will never forget the tears that streamed down yours and Sunwoo’s faces. Even on his special day, his two best friends could not help but be crybabies. You do not forget about the way he wiped the tears away with a smile that only provided you more comfort than words ever could.

On the day you and Sunwoo graduated, you can never forget how you two leaped at the sight of Changmin back in Cheongju. His arms wrapped around you two as if you were the last things on earth he could hold onto. That day only ended on a high note—one that you can hope to chase.

And when you first entered university and got accepted into the publication team, you will never forget how his expression shifted into genuine joy. The words he told you on that day are some you will never forget: “Every day, you are destined for greatness.”

With every lunch, you never forget how you find your heart leaping at the sight of him waiting outside of your classroom. In the same way you wait for him after class, you notice how his expression shifts from exhaustion to happiness. He never forgets to link arms with you every time you make your way to the picnic table you two consider your hideout.

The moment you share about your crush on the unattainable senior in your staff only had him laughing. And yet, he still indulged in your love-drunk rambles (even if nothing happened between you two). He never rained on your love train for all he seemed to care about is that you tell him everything.

When you bring Chanhee into your friend group, you do not forget how he connected with your two childhood best friends in an instant. The addition of Chanhee into your group of three made sense—you would not be the people you are today if someone were to be removed.

And at every party, Changmin always took care of you in your intoxicated state. Every time you needed to puke your guts out or desperately needed to drink water, he was always there to keep you company—to hold back your hair or bring you enough water that would help in sobering you up.

With every sentimental talk you two share, you never fail to see his attentive eyes on you—the way he holds onto your hand whenever you find yourself being vulnerable with him has become an ingrained action of his. And with every time you like to downplay every issue you face, he is always there to remind you of what you seemingly deserve.

Everywhere he goes, he brings warmth—one that you never feel from anyone else. Just from his existence, you always find yourself thanking the universe for bringing him to you. Because even if he loved to make fun of you in every way possible, you knew that it all came from a place of care—a place of love.

And just like that, you feel the crushing weight on your heart lifted. The moment of clarity finally pushed you to open your arms to what you had been tiptoeing around.

Oh.

Oh.

It is not as scary as you made it out to be. “I think I like you.” You do not realize the words you whisper under your breath without any second thought. It is soft just like how water slowly trickles down a faucet. But even the droplet sounds are ones you never want to hear on a quiet night.

You clear your throat loudly in hopes that it would cover up what you slipped out. “God, are you okay?” Your best friend asks as soon as your hand retreats from petting Gana.

With you shaking your head, you say, “Yeah! I think it’s just the cold weather getting to me.” You push yourself off the floor so that you can stand up. “I think I’ll just stay in my room and pack up for tomorrow.” Although his eyebrows furrow at your odd behavior, you do not allow him to say anything as you quickly make your way out of the living room.

On your way back to the room, you could only mentally scold yourself for coming to such a revelation—for even whispering such words without any second thought. You can only hope that your words were not heard by him. And while you found yourself panicking over the moment that occurred only minutes ago, your best friend was having an internal debate on whether he heard you say the words he has been dreaming of.

if you liked this, please take some time to like and reblog this and part one!

[trdeobi]

TOLERATE IT ༄ LEE JAEHYUN

( 02 ) New Movie ?

words : 3'3 K

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Lee Juyeon and Park Sohyun to Star in Hyunjae's New Film Amid Breakup Rumors

In an unexpected turn of events, director Lee Jaehyun, known in the industry as Hyunjae, has announced that his upcoming film, "Tolerate It," will feature the famous actors and couple Lee Juyeon and Park Sohyun in the lead roles. The film, set to be released in early 2020, has stirred up considerable buzz due to persistent breakup rumors surrounding the couple.

Juyeon and Sohyun, known for their talent and long-standing relationship, have been at the center of media speculation in recent months, with reports suggesting their relationship was in crisis. Hyunjae's decision to bring them together in a drama that reportedly explores the complexities and tensions within a relationship has been seen by many as a bold and potentially revealing move.

Fans and critics alike are eager to see how the couple's on-screen dynamic will reflect—or contrast with—their personal situation. With anticipation building, "Tolerate It" is already shaping up to be one of the most talked-about releases of the coming year.

Hyunjae was sitting in his small studio, surrounded by script pages and sketches for the movie that had occupied his mind for the past few months: "Tolerate It". With a steaming cup of coffee within reach, he sank into his chair, ready to dive into another day of work. Production was progressing, and although there were some challenges, everything seemed to be under control.

However, his peace was interrupted by the constant vibration of his phone on the desk. At first, he ignored it, thinking it was just another work notification or some unimportant message. But the sound persisted, insistent, until he finally picked it up with a resigned sigh.

Unlocking the screen, he saw a flood of messages in his group chat with his closest friends. Sunwoo had been the first to write, followed quickly by Areun , Changmin and Chanhee.

Hyunjae frowned, puzzled. He had no idea what they were referring to, so he quickly opened the browser on his phone and searched his name in the news. The first headline that appeared made him stop in his tracks.

"Lee Juyeon and Park Sohyun to Star in Hyunjae's New Film 'Tolerate It' Amid Breakup Rumors"

Hyunjae's stomach sank as he read it. He knew the movie, with its plot about a relationship in crisis, might attract public interest, but he had never anticipated that the rumors about Juyeon and Sohyun would become the main topic of discussion.

Before he could fully process what he had read, the phone started ringing. It was Sunwoo. Hyunjae sighed and answered the call.

—"Hyunjae?" —Sunwoo's voice was filled with excitement and curiosity— "Man, did you see that? You're in the news, and not just any news! Juyeon and Sohyun... This is crazy!"

Hyunjae rubbed his temples, trying to find the right words.

—"I just saw it," he replied wearily— "I had no idea this was going to happen. I just chose the actors because they were perfect for the roles. I didn’t think about their relationship... well, how the media would interpret it."

—"Come on, Hyunjae," Sunwoo said with a stifled laugh— "You know how the media is. This is dynamite for them. How could you not know that people would go crazy over this news? You’re blending fiction with reality, and everyone’s hooked!"

Hyunjae closed his eyes, letting his friend’s words sink in. He knew Sunwoo was right. He wasn't a rookie in the industry; he knew how these things worked. But his focus had always been on telling a good story, not on playing with the personal lives of his actors.

—"It wasn’t my intention for this to blow up like this," he finally said, in a more serious tone— "I want the movie to speak for itself, not become a scandal about Juyeon and Sohyun's lives."

—"I know, I know," Sunwoo responded, softening his tone— "But look on the bright side. This will bring more eyes to your movie. People will want to see if there’s any truth behind the rumors, and that could be an advantage."

Hyunjae remained silent. He couldn’t deny that the additional attention might help the movie, but he hated the idea of the narrative being diverted by external drama.

The call was interrupted by another notification, this time from Chanhee.

hee : "Hyunjae, this is pure gold for promotion. Are you sure you didn’t know anything? Because if you did, well played!"

Sunwoo laughed as he read the message at the same time as Hyunjae.

—"Seems like everyone thinks you planned this, buddy. What are you going to do?"

Hyunjae bit his lower lip, thinking.

—"First, I’ll talk to Juyeon and Sohyun. I need to make sure they’re comfortable with all this. If they’re not, it could turn into a disaster. And then... I don’t know, maybe try to control the narrative a bit more."

—"That’s the way to think," Sunwoo said— "Just don’t burn yourself out with all this. We know how passionate you are, but you need to keep a cool head."

Hyunjae nodded, though his friend couldn’t see him.

—"Thanks, Sunwoo. I’ll handle it. I’ll keep you posted."

—"Of course, man. And, hey, if you need help with anything, you know you can count on me and the others."

Hyunjae smiled, appreciating the support.

—"I know. Thanks."

After hanging up, Hyunjae stared at his phone screen. Sunwoo was right, he needed to talk to Juyeon and Sohyun as soon as possible. He knew that public pressure could affect their performance and, worse, their personal relationship.

With determination, he dialed Juyeon’s number, hoping his friend was home. They needed to have an honest conversation about what was happening and how they were going to manage the situation before it got out of hand.

As the dial tone rang, Hyunjae glanced at the "Tolerate It" script on his desk. The story he had written, he thought, might be about to become more real than he had ever imagined.

Hyunjae listened to the ringing tone, his heart pounding. Every second that passed without Juyeon answering made the tension in his chest grow. Finally, after what felt like minutes, Juyeon picked up.

—"Hyunjae?" Juyeon's voice sounded calm, but there was a slight tension behind his greeting, as if he had been expecting a call like this.

—"Yeah, it's me," Hyunjae responded, trying to sound composed. "Do you have a moment to talk?"

—"Of course," Juyeon replied after a brief pause. "I figured you'd call soon. It's about the news, right?"

Hyunjae nodded, knowing Juyeon couldn't see him.

—"Yeah, exactly. I don’t want this to become a problem for you or Sohyun. I know the situation isn’t easy with all the rumors circulating..."

Juyeon sighed, interrupting him.

—"We saw this coming, Hyunjae. Both Sohyun and I knew that taking on these roles wouldn’t be easy, especially with everything being said about our relationship. But honestly, that doesn’t worry me as much as the film itself. We've talked about it, and we believe in the project. We want to do it right."

The sincerity in Juyeon’s voice reassured Hyunjae a little, but it also reminded him of how complicated mixing personal and professional life could be.

—"I’m glad to hear that, Juyeon," Hyunjae said, relaxing slightly in his chair. "You know I didn’t intend for this to turn into a media circus. I want the film to speak for itself, not for people to focus on what’s happening behind the scenes."

Juyeon laughed, a soft yet slightly bitter sound.

—"Hyunjae, in this business, sometimes the circus is unavoidable. But we’ve talked about it, Sohyun and I, and we’re committed. We know what’s at stake, and we’re willing to face it. Besides, we trust you as a director. You’ve been clear with us from the beginning, and we value that."

Hyunjae couldn’t help but feel grateful for his friend’s words. He and Juyeon had known each other since university, having shared countless film classes and long nights discussing their projects and ideas. Hyunjae knew how professional Juyeon was, but he also understood how personal this could become, especially with everything being said about his relationship with Sohyun.

—"I’m glad you feel that way," he finally said. "And if at any point you feel like things are getting out of control, please tell me. I don’t want this project to affect your personal life more than necessary."

—"I will, don’t worry," Juyeon replied confidently. "In fact, Sohyun and I were talking about this just before you called. We believe that, ironically, the film could be an opportunity for us to clear things up, both personally and professionally."

Hyunjae raised an eyebrow, surprised by the statement"

—"How so?"

Juyeon paused before responding, as if carefully choosing his words.

—"Well, playing a couple going through difficulties might help us see our own situation from a different perspective. Maybe it’ll help us communicate what we haven’t been able to express in real life. It’s like fiction is giving us the space to be more honest, without the pressure we feel in our day-to-day lives."

Hyunjae was silent for a moment, processing what Juyeon had just said. There was something deeply ironic and poetic about the idea that a film, created to explore the internal conflicts of a relationship, might help heal or clarify a real one.

—"That’s... really interesting, Juyeon. I never saw it that way, but it makes sense. If you think the film can help in some way, then I’m more determined than ever to make this work."

—"I know, and I trust you. I always have," Juyeon said, his voice now softer, almost nostalgic. "Ever since our days in university, when we spent hours analyzing films, I knew you had a unique vision. That’s one of the reasons I took on this project, despite everything."

Hyunjae smiled at the memory. The nights in university, filled with passionate discussions about cinema, were some of the best of his life. In those classrooms and nearby cafes, not only a friendship was born, but a mutual respect that had endured over the years.

—"Thanks, Juyeon. That means a lot to me." He took a deep breath, determined to change the tone of the conversation. "So, how about we focus on how we’re going to handle all this? We could plan a strategy for interviews and promotion, so we can steer attention away from the rumors and focus on what really matters: the film."

Juyeon chuckled softly.

—"Always the pragmatist, Hyunjae. That sounds good. Let’s meet with Sohyun and talk about how we want to handle all this. I’m sure we’ll get through it."

—"That sounds perfect. How about we do it tomorrow afternoon at my office? We could sit down and calmly plan everything."

—"Sure, tomorrow works. I’ll let Sohyun know and we’ll see you there."

—"Thanks, Juyeon. Really." Hyunjae felt a wave of relief and gratitude. "See you tomorrow, then."

—"See you tomorrow, Hyunjae. And don’t worry so much. Everything will turn out fine."

Hyunjae hung up the phone and let out a long sigh. He felt more at ease after talking to Juyeon, but he knew the coming days would be crucial to ensuring the film didn’t get caught up in a whirlwind of rumors and scandals.

He stood up from his chair and looked around his small studio. Scripts, notes, and sketches were scattered everywhere. He took a deep breath, remembering why he had started this project in the first place. "Tolerate It" wasn’t just a film; it was his vision, a story he wanted to tell with all the honesty and care possible.

Tomorrow, he would meet with Juyeon and Sohyun, and together they would find the best way to move forward. And with a bit of luck, the film might not only be a success but also help its stars find the clarity they needed, both in fiction and in reality.

It was a quiet night in Seoul, but the tension inside the apartment Hyunjae shared with Myah—known as Robin in the industry—was palpable. Hyunjae had arrived home a bit later than usual after his conversation with Juyeon, his mind occupied with the day’s events. When he opened the apartment door, he was greeted by the warm light inside and the soft sound of music that Robin had left playing while she relaxed on the couch.

Robin was lying down with a blanket over her legs, her eyes fixed on her phone screen as she scrolled through social media absentmindedly. Hyunjae watched her for a moment from the doorway, appreciating the sight of his girlfriend relaxed in their shared space, but he couldn’t help but notice a slight distance in her behavior that hadn’t been there before.

—"Myah," he called softly, using her birth name as he took off his jacket and hung it on the coat rack. "How was your day?"

Robin briefly looked up, giving him a quick, mechanical smile before returning her gaze to her phone.

—"Fine, just tired," she replied vaguely, her voice lacking the usual warmth that Hyunjae had come to expect. "The rehearsals were long."

Hyunjae nodded, approaching the couch and sitting next to her. He reached out to stroke her hair, a gesture of affection that usually comforted her, but this time Robin barely reacted. He told himself it was just the exhaustion making her distant and didn’t dwell on it.

—"I wanted to talk to you about something," Hyunjae began, trying to ease into the conversation. "I got some news today that’s starting to circulate in the media. It’s about the movie and... Juyeon and Sohyun."

Robin felt a small knot form in her stomach at the mention of Juyeon’s name. Despite this, she didn’t take her eyes off her phone, but she did lower the volume of the music, pretending to show interest that she didn’t truly feel.

—"What happened?" she asked, carefully masking her indifference, aware that Hyunjae didn’t know how she really felt about Juyeon.

Hyunjae didn’t notice the lack of enthusiasm in her tone and continued, leaning forward slightly.

—"Well, it seems the media is making a big deal out of the fact that Juyeon and Sohyun, with all those rumors about their relationship, are starring in a movie together about a couple in crisis. You know how the media is—they’re trying to turn it into a real-life drama."

Robin nodded again, her gaze still fixed on her screen, where a recent notification had just appeared.

—"Yeah, the media can be unbearable sometimes," she responded in a distant tone.

Hyunjae looked at her, searching for some sign of concern or reaction, but all he saw was the same neutral expression as always. He wondered if he should have expected a more engaged response from her, considering that he himself had been worried about the situation all day.

—"I had to talk to Juyeon," he continued, trying to keep the conversation going. "It seems like they’re handling the pressure well, but I want to make sure everything stays under control. I don’t want the movie to turn into a celebrity gossip story."

Robin felt a pang of irritation upon hearing that Juyeon had been an important topic in Hyunjae’s day. However, she maintained her impassive expression, remembering the day she overheard Juyeon saying she was a problem. She hadn’t been able to forget that comment, nor the pain it caused her. Since then, she had decided to keep her thoughts about Juyeon to herself, but that didn’t mean the wound had healed.

—"I’m sure you’ll handle it well," Robin said, trying to sound supportive, though her words lacked the emotion that Hyunjae usually found in her. "After all, you’re good at what you do, right?"

Hyunjae smiled, though he couldn’t shake the feeling that something was missing. He wanted to believe that Robin was just tired, that the rehearsals had left her exhausted, and that was why she wasn’t as present in the conversation. However, something inside him told him it wasn’t just that.

—"Thanks, Myah. That means a lot to me," he responded, searching for her eyes, but she remained focused on her phone.

He decided not to press the issue. He was worried that if he continued talking about the movie, Robin would become overwhelmed. Besides, he was convinced that the distance he felt was temporary, just a result of the long hours of rehearsal and exhaustion. So, he leaned in and gave her a soft kiss on the forehead.

—"You should get some rest," he said quietly. "Tomorrow will be another long day, right?"

Robin finally looked away from her phone, but only to give him a soft, almost forced smile.

—"Yeah, I will." She put her phone aside and leaned back on the couch, as if trying to relax.

Hyunjae stood up, giving her space. He needed a moment himself to clear his mind after the hectic day he’d had.

—"I’m going to make some tea. Do you want one?" he offered.

Robin shook her head.

—"No, thanks. I think I’ll go to bed soon."

Hyunjae nodded, accepting her response without question. He headed to the apartment’s small kitchen, letting the sound of the kettle fill the uncomfortable silence that lingered in the living room.

As he waited for the water to boil, he couldn’t help but think about how strange everything felt. Before, Robin used to listen attentively to everything he said, especially when it came to his work. She had always been his support, his partner in tough times, but tonight something had changed.

"It must be the exhaustion," he told himself again, though a small voice in his mind questioned that explanation. "She just needs to rest, that’s all."

When the tea was ready, Hyunjae brought it to the dining table and sat alone, watching the steam rise in soft spirals from the cup. It felt strange to be so close to Robin and yet feel so distant from her.

On the couch, Robin closed her eyes, trying to calm the conflicting emotions that were overwhelming her. She loved Hyunjae, but she couldn’t help but feel a growing resentment toward Juyeon and, by extension, the situation she found herself in. She didn’t want Hyunjae to feel ignored, but at that moment, she couldn’t force herself to show more interest in something she found so unpleasant.

Finally, she got up from the couch, intending to head to her room. She paused for a moment in the kitchen doorway, where Hyunjae was sitting alone with his tea.

—"Good night, Jaehyun," she said softly.

Hyunjae looked up and smiled at her, trying to hide any concern.

—"Good night, Myah. Sleep well."

She nodded and headed to the bedroom, leaving Hyunjae alone with his thoughts. As she slipped under the covers, Robin tried to block out any thoughts about Juyeon, Hyunjae, and the discomfort she felt. She closed her eyes, hoping that sleep would free her from the tangle of emotions that enveloped her.

In the kitchen, Hyunjae took a sip of his tea, trying to convince himself that everything was fine. Tomorrow would be a new day, and maybe then, things would return to normal. With that thought, he prepared for the night, hoping that the distance he felt between him and Robin was only temporary, a product of the exhaustion and stress they were both enduring.

[depressedhouseplant]

🔞 Cops & Robbers 🔞

Tags: Smut

A/N: And we’re back! My muse decided to pay me a visit! I suppose I should add that you shouldn’t use sex as a weapon in your relationship(s), but this is fiction so I can do whatever I want.

“You want me to do what where for who?” Sunwoo stared at Eric.

”I need you to sweep Felix Lee’s office for bugs and not the six legged kind,” Eric repeated.

”Since when do you have any interest in what Felix Lee is doing, much less whether or not his office is bugged?” Changmin asked.

”Since he’s fucking him,” Hyunjae said.

”Hyunjae!” Eric screeched at his brother.

”So that’s why you’re gone so long,” Changmin gave him a suggestive look.

”You’re what?” Sunwoo did a cartoon double take.

”Yes, we’re sleeping together and have been for a while, but I wasn’t exactly ready to share that information,” Eric was still glaring at Hyunjae. His brother shrugged and sat on the couch.

”I’m going to guess that Juyeon doesn’t know,” Changmin said. Eric shook his head.

“And if Younghoon knew, Felix would be dead,” Sunwoo added. Eric nodded. “I’ll only do it if you tell them.”

”What? Why?” Eric asked.

”Because while technically I’m a freelancer, Juyeon pays my bills and he’s been driving himself insane trying to figure out who was involved in kidnapping Younghoon. You know and it’s your duty to share what you know. That’s the risk you take literally sleeping with the enemy,” Sunwoo told him.

”But Sunwoo,” Eric began.

”That’s my price. I’m not changing it,” he replied.

“Juyeon will kill him,” Eric said.

”You heard me the first time,” Sunwoo wasn’t going to budge. Eric squeezed his eyes shut to stop his tears. He’d heard what Juyeon did to Jacob’s killer. That was for someone he wasn’t in love with. Eric didn’t even want to consider what he’d do to Felix for what he did to Younghoon.

”Hyunjae?” Eric looked at his brother.

”I’ll come with you if you want,” Hyunjae replied.

“Let me know when it’s done,” Sunwoo said and went back to his computer. That was his signal that the conversation was over.

”Let’s go,” Hyunjae led his brother out of the basement and up to Juyeon’s office.

“Wait,” Eric said when they got to the top of the stairs.

”What?” Hyunjae asked.

”Let me tell Younghoon first,” Eric replied. “If anything he has a right to know first.”

”Are you sure? Younghoon isn’t exactly stable right now,” Hyunjae observed.

”Neither is Juyeon, but Younghoon was the one Felix tortured,” Eric said. He was probably signing Felix’s death warrant.

”Come in,” Younghoon said when he heard a knock on the bedroom door.

”Do you have a minute?” Eric asked with Hyunjae in tow.

“What’s going on?” Younghoon’s hackles immediately went up. The brothers were rarely together unless something serious was going on.

”You might…can you…umm…I have something I need to tell you,” Eric stuttered.

”Okay,” Younghoon sat on the bed and eyed Eric carefully.

”Just tell him,” Hyunjae said. Eric bit his lip and Hyunjae bumped him with his shoulder.

”I know who the last person who tortured you is. It’s Felix Lee,” Eric said.

“Why are you crying?” Younghoon asked. Eric furiously wiped his face.

”Because I’m sleeping with him. I love him. I figured it out when you described the third person. I knew he could do some pretty fucked up shit, but I didn’t think he’d torture someone. Please don’t kill him. Please,” the younger boy begged. Younghoon considered what Eric said. He remembered all too clearly what it was like to beg for someone else’s life. However, Chanhee was innocent. He had nothing to do with what Younghoon was doing. Felix was far from innocent.

“Does Juyeon know?” Younghoon asked.

”No, I wanted to tell you first,” Eric was shaking and couldn’t stop his tears.

”Do you want me to tell him?” Younghoon continued.

”Why…why would you do that?” Eric asked.

”Because he’ll be far more receptive hearing it from from me than anyone else,” Younghoon replied.

“Receptive? Receptive to what?” Eric stared at him.

”Letting him live,” Younghoon replied.

”You’d let him live? After what he did?” Eric whispered.

”If I didn’t kill the man who killed my best friend, I’m not going to kill the man who gave me a scrape on my side,” Younghoon told him. “I just need to make one phone call first.”

”Thank you, thank you so much. Whatever you want in return, you can have it,” Eric hugged Younghoon, almost knocking the wind out of him.

”No need, but I appreciate the thought,” Younghoon hugged him back. Eric couldn’t help who he fell in love with. Just like Younghoon couldn’t.

”This is a surprise,” Hyunjin said when he picked up Younghoon’s call.

”I need to know something,” Younghoon said.

”I might know,” Hyunjin replied.

”Did Felix Lee help torture me?” Younghoon asked. The line was silent for an uncomfortable amount of time. “I’ll take that as a yes.”

”I found out at the ball. I was trying to figure out a way to tell you, but Felix keeps a close eye on my communication these days since I’m supposed to only be entertaining the mayor,” Hyunjin replied.

”I had a feeling you knew something even if you didn’t have a name,” Younghoon told him.

”I’m sorry. I should’ve told you when I found out,” Hyunjin apologized.

”It’s fine. Someone else beat you to it, if you’ll pardon the figure of speech,” Younghoon replied.

”Are they still breathing?” Hyunjin snorted.

”He is and Felix will be too,” Younghoon said.

”You’re not gonna kill him?” Hyunjin was surprised.

”More like I have to convince Juyeon not to kill him,” Younghoon explained.

”I did hear you shot a guy’s knees out,” Hyunjin said, a hint of a smile in his voice.

”You heard correctly,” Younghoon smiled back. “Take care of yourself, yeah?”

”Always. You too,” Hyunjin replied. Younghoon’s heart sank as he ended the call.

Juyeon looked up to see Younghoon standing in the doorway of his office.

”Babe? What’s wrong?” He stood up and walked over to his boyfriend.

”I need to tell you something and you need to listen to everything I say before you go charging out of here ready to take heads,” Younghoon told him.

”What? What’s that supposed to mean?” Juyeon was confused.

”I know who the third person who tortured me is,” Younghoon began.

”You do? How? Who is it?” Juyeon asked.

”Sit, please,” Younghoon told him. Juyeon dutifully sat, not even thinking to question Younghoon. The other man sat in his lap. Younghoon brushed Juyeon’s bangs off his face and watched them fall back into place before he spoke again. “Do you believe you get to choose who you love?”

”I never really thought about it. You’re the only person I’ve ever loved,” Juyeon replied.

”And you’re the only one I’ve ever loved. A cop shouldn’t love a criminal. Maybe a cop shouldn’t fall in love at all. But I fell in love with you and along with that comes everything you’ve done, who you are, and what you do,” Younghoon said.

”Okay,” Juyeon still wasn’t sure where Younghoon was going with this.

”Eric fell in love with someone, someone like you who does bad things. I don’t think he intended to fall in love. I know I didn’t. It just happened. That person, the person Eric loves, is the third person who tortured me,” Younghoon continued.

”Who? Who is it?” Juyeon sat up straighter, his hands gripping Younghoon’s waist.

”Felix Lee,” Younghoon replied.

”I should’ve known,” Juyeon went to stand up and Younghoon straddled him, pushing his weight through his hips and pinning Juyeon in the chair.

”What did I say, darling?” Younghoon put his hand on Juyeon’s cheek.

”Listen to everything you say,” Juyeon answered.

”Eric was protecting the man he loves just like you’ll do anything to protect me. Don’t punish Eric for that. After that, leave Felix to me,” Younghoon kissed him as he leaned further into the other man, making it even harder for Juyeon to stand up. Juyeon could carry Younghoon, but it was difficult.

”I won’t,” Juyeon agreed, holding onto Younghoon’s hips. This conversation shouldn’t be making him horny, but Younghoon’s body up against his never failed to make Juyeon’s brain short circuit.

”You won’t what?” Younghoon asked, untucking Juyeon’s shirt and putting his hands on Juyeon’s skin.

”I won’t punish Eric,” Juyeon’s pants were getting uncomfortably tight.

”Promise me,” Younghoon lifted his hips and repositioned them right on Juyeon’s hardening cock.

”I promise I won’t punish him,” Juyeon’s breath hitched.

”Good,” Younghoon kissed his jaw. “And you’ll leave Felix to me.”

”Yes, I’ll leave Felix to you,” Juyeon was on the verge of whimpering as Younghoon ran his hands over Juyeon’s torso.

”I knew you’d listen,” Younghoon reached down and undid Juyeon’s belt. Juyeon whined when Younghoon’s fingers grazed the tip of his cock as he unzipped Juyeon’s pants. “And now I’m going to fuck you because good boys who listen get fucked.”

”Shit, baby, right now?” Juyeon asked.

”Why not? Are you busy?” Younghoon cocked his head.

”I mean, I’m always busy, but I don’t have anything specific right now,” Juyeon replied, his dick throbbing.

”Then I don’t see any reason not right now,” Younghoon shimmied out of his sweatpants and spit on his fingers, reaching back to open himself up.

“Fuck,” Juyeon breathed as he watched Younghoon move in his lap. Younghoon smirked as he removed his fingers and lined Juyeon’s cock up with his entrance. He let out an undignified moan when Younghoon slid onto his dick.

”You’re so predictable,” Younghoon teased.

”You’re so hot,” Juyeon replied, pulling Younghoon down by the back of his neck into a kiss. He felt Younghoon smile against his lips as he started bouncing on Juyeon’s cock. In spite of fucking him this morning, Younghoon was still tight and hot around him.

”I know you’ll like this,” Younghoon took Juyeon’s hand and pressed it against his lower belly. “You like feeling yourself in me, don’t you?”

Juyeon moaned at the feeling of his cock inside Younghoon’s body.

“I’ll take that as a yes,” Younghoon grinned. He rode Juyeon harder, not seeming to care that the other man was making any number of obscene noises. Younghoon kissed him again, swallowing down Juyeon’s moans. It didn’t matter. It wasn’t the first time someone might hear them and it wouldn’t be the last. “Gonna fill me up? Gonna make me walk around with your come dripping out of me?”

”Yes, fuck yes,” Juyeon grunted as he felt the first wave of orgasm flutter.

”Good,” Younghoon clamped down on him and Juyeon came, emptying into Younghoon. Younghoon held one of Juyeon’s hands on his lower belly so he could feel his cock shaking inside Younghoon’s body. Juyeon whined at the feeling. Younghoon came at the sound, spilling all over Juyeon’s shirt.

”You…are a menace,” Juyeon panted as he came down from his high.

”You love me,” Younghoon grinned, kissing him.

”I love you more than anything,” Juyeon agreed.

”I know,” Younghoon replied. He got up and got redressed then looked at Juyeon, disheveled, covered in come, with his cock out.

”I’ve got a change of clothes,” Juyeon assured him.

”Okay, don’t work too hard,” Younghoon leaned down to kiss him again.

”I won’t, I promise,” Juyeon replied.

I need a ride

Hyunjae opened the message from Younghoon.

Where to?

YH: Felix Lee’s place

HJ: To do what?

YH: I’m not gonna kill him, but I might make it hurt

HJ: I’ll be up in 5

YH: Make it 3

Hyunjae wasn’t sure he was gonna like how this ended. At all.