#comma loving writers

[arsenicflame]

steddyhands modern au inspired by this post:

(1828 words, themes of kink but nothing explicit, established blackhands & gentlebeard-centric. Happy Pride!)

Stede picks up leatherworking in the wake of his divorce. He's not exactly sure how it ended up being such an important hobby for him, only that he had always admired the intricate designs on his horse's best bridles, and with little else to do with his time, he decides to give it a go.

It's rocky going at first, but he's having fun working with his hands for the first time in his life, and there's a sense of satisfaction in seeing the design come to life as he works. With practice, his skills improve, and he learns how to make things that are truly one of a kind.

He starts off posting his pieces online, as a way to reach fellow enthusiasts, but quickly finds himself with a rather large audience. Stede’s style is unique, and, after many requests from his followers, Lucius encourages him to make some more basic pieces he can sell. It's not about making money for Stede, but another way to meet new people who share his interests- as Lucius keeps telling him, it's sad that his personal assistant is the main person he talks to these days. 

So Stede sets out on a new adventure, and has quite the time designing a new range of patterns for the market. He makes purses, belts, bracelets, and, most importantly, dog collars- all still with his unique designs embossed into them, of course. He rents a booth at his towns monthly craft fair, and very quickly finds himself with a new group of friends in the other regulars- Pete, his usual neighbour, who sells an array of wooden figures he carves, Roach, who runs a stand for his bakery, and Frenchie, who isn't actually a stallholder, but is almost always busking near his friend Wee John’s stand of knitted goods, bringing life to the market even in the pouring rain. There's also Buttons, another regular at the market. Nobody is exactly sure what he does there- he doesn't sell things, or seem to buy anything either, but rain or shine, he's there with the birds.

Stede’s been doing this a few months by the time June rolls around. As he's setting up his stand, he notices that the area is much busier than it’d normally be at this time of morning. Lucius, who got roped into helping run Stede’s stall somewhere down the line (despite his protests that this is not what personal assistant means… But hey, he got a boyfriend out of it, at least), reminds him that there's the parade today, too- not realising that Stede had no clue there was a parade today, and especially not that it was pride. Stede immediately jumps to fretting about the amount of stock he’s brought, and Lucius takes the cue to escape, saying he’ll go and grab them coffee (but really, he's off to flirt with Pete)

Lucius is still missing when Ed stumbles across the little leather stall. Stede’s just ran back to his car to fetch his last boxes of inventory, and by the time he returns, Ed’s already begun to narrow down his choices. Stede greets him, starting to tell him that they're not actually open yet, but before he gets more than a couple of words out, Ed’s exclaiming “You're a Kiwi!!!”

The two of them smile at the shared recognition, and Stede says he’ll make an exception, just for Ed, and asks him what exactly he was interested in. Ed tells him that he's looking for a collar “for his boy”, and points out the particular design he was looking at. It happens to be one of Stede’s favourites from this latest run of work, a fact he mentions to Ed. It leads them into a discussion about Stede’s craft, and Ed’s Izzy, and then everything in between. Ed’s listening intently to the things Stede’s telling him, completely drawn in by the process, and by Stede himself. He watches as Stede stamps Izzy's name into the collar, and Stede even lets him have a go at one of the stamps. 

Lucius reappears sometime in the middle of this- only to immediately retreat again, seeing Stede engrossed with Ed. He sets up camp at Pete's booth opposite, watching this man flirt intensely with his boss- and Stede flirt back just as hard. Does Stede even realise he’s doing it? Lucius had known Stede was gay since before Stede even admitted it to himself, but this is on a whole other level.

The pair stand there so long that Izzy comes to look for Ed- the two of them are manning a float on the parade with their crew, and it's past time for them to get geared up. He's already worked up, frustrated to have been left to set up everything alone, when Ed had just gone to see if he could get them both coffee. So maybe he's a bit of a prick, approaching with a brash “where the fuck have you been, Edward”, to which Stede brings the same energy, giving a bitchy “Ed! Do you know this guy?” Izzy tenses, ready to snap, but then Ed cuts in, excitedly telling Stede that this is “his Izzy!” Which confuses the hell out of Stede. 

Forgetting his earlier attitude, he asks Ed if he “really named his dog after his friend”, only to be met with confusion right back from Ed at where the hell Stede got the idea he had a dog from. Stede gestures at the bag with the collar in it, to which Ed has to tell him, “oh, no, that's for him.” Ed tells Stede that they're here to run a float for their local leather society, and while Stede is certainly shocked by what Ed’s saying, he's not finding himself… uninterested. It's simply that he’s never even considered any of this before, especially not that people would use the things that he made for this, but Ed sounds so enthusiastic about it all. He tells him about how his friends would love to see Stede’s work, about how classic leather gear is always so fucking boring- but not Stede’s stuff, no, Stede’s stuff is “fresh” and “fascinating” and unlike anything Ed’s ever seen before. 

Ed's enthusiasm is incredibly infectious, so when he invites Stede to come back to see their float, he readily agrees. It’s a concept Izzy’s less than enthusiastic about. He doesn’t really want to bring this man who’s dressed like he just walked out of a HOA board meeting to their kinky little corner of the world, but he is having a lot of fun watching Stede squirm, so decides not to raise a protest. He does demand he gets his long-overdue coffee first, though (Stede pays for it- as “compensation for him distracting Ed from his job”, he says, not giving Izzy a second to process before he's tapping his card)

By the time they return to the float, Fang, Ivan & Jim are waiting for them, all already geared up. Stede is stunned silent at the sight for about 5 seconds, before he starts actually looking at the quality of Jim’s harness, and proceeds to go off about the poor quality of the craftsmanship, about how the hardware is tacky and completely the wrong choice with this leather, how his “ten year old daughter could do a better job!!!” 

There's complete silence from the group, until Izzy, of all people, bursts into laughter at Stede’s audacity (and, the fact he was staring at Jim's tits completely unabashedly, like he hadn't even noticed them in the first place). Izzy's laughter sets Ed off as he tells the group about Stede’s misunderstanding- “you didn't say he was a person!” “I mean, he's my dog”- and soon everyone's having a friendly giggle at Stede’s mistake.

It's somewhere in the middle of the retelling that Ed remembers that this whole thing happened because he was buying Izzy a gift. After a moments fumbling, he presents Izzy with the collar-  It's a rich, deep black, embossed with a rolling pattern that resembles waves. It’s made from a firm enough leather to take the tooling, and to remind Izzy that he’s owned while he’s wearing it, yet still soft enough for long term comfort. Izzy's eyes immediately lock on to it, an unreadable expression coming over his face, and Ed turns it; first so he can really see the design and Izzy’s name embossed into it, and then so he can see the small “Ed ♥” on the inside of the collar, right over his swallow tattoo. 

“I did the heart,” Ed says to him softly, intended only for Izzy’s ears. Izzy's eyes flick up to Ed’s, and he raises his chin to give Ed the room to put it on. Ed buckles the collar around his neck almost reverently, a test of the tightness turning into a caress of Izzy's neck. It's a perfect fit.

It's as though something comes over Izzy; so twitchy and abrasive earlier, now silent, staring at Ed with a look akin to worship in his eyes. He obediently tilts his head for a kiss as Ed's fingers move to his chin- It's a sight to behold, and one that has Stede intrigued. He wants to know more about this lifestyle, and these men in particular. He wants to be the one to put that expression on Izzy's face.

The moment breaks as Ed and Izzy pull apart, and Ed calls for the crew to finish the last bits of set up. Izzy shakes himself a little before running off to bark orders again, but even still, there remains a softness to him that wasn't there before. 

Ed turns back to Stede with an apologetic smile, already obvious that he has to get going. Before he can speak, however, Stede jumps in -“My business numbers on the card in the box… I'll be around all day”- Ed’s smile turns more genuine at that, promising to stop by if he gets a moment, and that he’ll send his friend's Stede’s way- “if he wants that kind of business.” Stede says that he does, actually- that he's seen a whole new world already today, and, while he was a little taken aback at first, he can feel the passion Ed and his friends have for this life. If there's one thing that's ever mattered to Stede, it's other people's enthusiasm. Maybe he doesn't completely understand yet, but he would like to try.

One year later, Stede’s back at the market on pride weekend again, far better stocked for the crowds this time around. Lucius is finally free to spend the day flirting with Fang & Pete to his heart's content, now that Stede’s roped his own boyfriends into helping him run the stall- and into modelling the merchandise. Ed loves that part, while Izzy needs a lot more convincing, but the puppy eyes Stede & Ed weaponise against him make a very good argument.

[akechi-if-he-slayed]

reading shuake strikers au with no prior knowledge of the strikers storyline at all is such a wonderful experience bc half the time i can’t tell what the author made up and what actually happened …

[pealeii]

[b-writing-777]

The lesser choice.

So much I long to say, yet I am a coward.

I cannot voice my love, nor my regret.

You are my father, you have cared for me since existence.

I’m sorry I do this to you, sorry for treating you this way.

I wish I was better.

[spider-man-2o99]

when are you gonna see the new spiderverse?

it's not set in stone or anything, but we're aiming for sometime within the first week of its release if we can afford it!!

(on the note of spoilers: i Strongly Prefer to not be spoiled, but they won't like. Ruin My Life or really even my Day, i just would prefer to not be spoiled cause it's. like. a dick move, y'know? thanks. love yall)

[theata00]

Poem on winter

[lux-scriptum]

Apparently I average one comma every 14.5 words

[avoicebehindthestars]

Actually, you know what, @phoen1xr0se? Scratch my previous reblog.

*goes to Aidin Island* *recruits Dog, a flock of puffins, Shadwell, Anathema, and Tracy's food (yeah, that's chemical weapon all right, don't tell the folks at Geneva)* *recruits Newt and immediately sends him your way as the ultimate guerrilla* *conjures up the flaming sword that DFAFM!Aziraphale has probably lost again at this point* *stands between you and the lighthouse where the Ineffable Puffins are still cuddled up*

ARE WE GOING TO HAVE A SITUATION HERE, LAURA?!?!?!

:(

[possuminabathtub]

"But he had also been Bucky, at least physically, and now he was something else, something strange and unexpected, something new, but so old, a rot that ate away at a felled tree, neither the towering strong presence that it had once been, nor the mulch he made of it, but the fungus that made a home of its decaying bones, a life within death." Love coming up with absolutely gibberish metaphors, it's quite possibly my life's purpose to throw words together in some sort of way until something just might possibly make some semblance of sense, just absolutely going ham at my lil monkey typewriter

[chroniclesofatimeandplace]

Day One of Being an Author

Well, technically, that title is a lie. In some way, shape or form, we are all authors. However, I will use it to get my point across.

It is September 5th, 2023. I have begun crafting an idea to (finally) participate in NaNoWriMo this year, however, it has been quite a long time since I have written anything for the purpose of others to read for entertainment. I dug out an old "Things to Write About" book that a family member had earnestly gifted to me a few years prior, carefully flipping through the pages to find a prompt that spoke to me. Small bits of dust flew around me, reminding me of just how long it has been.

Once I had found the prompt for today, I grabbed my water bottle in preparation. Fall may have already descended in the Pacific Northwest, but it was still mildly warm. The importance of hydration has not yet been forgotten by me.

I carefully made my way to my laptop, beginning a new Microsoft Word document. As I typed out the prompt my book had provided for me, I felt the familiar wall that has kept my previous attempts at beginning to write again a fruitless endeavor. As a remedy, I created this very Tumblr blog that you are reading this on now. I've always been better at distracting myself than doing the simple work that I want to do.

I do hope that I don't come off pretentious. I am simply in need of beginning to write again. Holding the pen, so to speak. Although everything is digital now.

My goal is to try and update near daily. I am, however, a student. While writing is important to me, my studies will take priority. Nonetheless, I am anticipating participating in NaNoWriMo this upcoming November. I hope to see you there. :)

L.M Lewis

[sunsoak]

Think I might fuck around and edit the always sunny Wikipedia page for grammar because there’s a criminally long run on sentence in the lead section

[starlostseungmin]

reblogging this feedback on my main because deni here just made me cry and giggle first thing in the morning 😭

was i really that obvious that i love seungmin so much that i poured all of my feelings for this fic? yes, yes i did. this is one of my favorite pieces for a reason ☝🏻 the favoritism is showing 🧎🏻‍♀️

i’m giggling so much right now that i made you emotional along with that time of day ahh nights when we read 🤭

having this established relationship with seungmin is a dream like there will be a lot of ups and downs but you wouldn’t mind when he loves you so much god when will it be me?

to love and be loved — kim seungmin.

summary : a series of events. from the start to a new beginning. to be in love, to love and be loved—what is a relationship with seungmin look like?

✰ pairing : boyfriend!seungmin x fem!reader (she/her pronouns).

✰ genre : semi-college au, slice of life, established relationship, fluff, a bit of angst.

✰ warnings : use of profanity, mentions of alcohol consumerism and cheating, kissing, semi-proofread, lmk if i missed one.

✰ word count : 9.9k

disclaimer !!　after two months of this fic being on standby, it is finally here. this was also posted first based on what the poll results said. please do not forget to reblog and leave feedback! thank you so much. 𖹭 — special mention to chase atlantic’s song, paradise.

𖹭 ⁺ ONE. 

To be loved by Seungmin is like a beautiful dream you didn’t want to wake up from. It also visualizes the satisfaction of how you finally completed a puzzle and he was the last missing piece or that sigh of success after finishing a 400-page novel in one sitting. You didn’t know how you ended up here. Maybe there were a few scenarios in which you were crazy enough to capture his heart as well. And for that matter, how did everything start? 

A rainy day in the middle of spring had brought an unexpected turn of events. The to-do list was just as simple as counting from 1 to 10, but it became difficult, like a math problem, for someone who hates numerical methods. It all began with a bold confession you’ve seen in dramas based on the execution. Seungmin stood two meters away with his back turned against you while you were shedding tears, ready to be rejected. You didn’t want to repeat those words, and if you did, it would only make him go insane.

“Why don’t you buy me lunch after your thesis defense? ”He said, and that’s what happened. But instead of thanking him, stupid, you confessed your damn feelings while he was enjoying his food. He stopped moving his mouth and had his hand drop the fork on his plate, trying to process your sentence. 

“I like you.” It’s just that simple, and he should understand what it means as someone who is always at the top of the class. But it seems hard to fathom, especially when those words come from you. “I like you, Seungmin.” He scoffed at it the second time he heard it, but you were taking all the risks. 

Why? 

You were supposed to be friends, but what he did throughout college made you think it was more than that when he was just being nice, or that’s what you thought. 

He was the one who made sure you’d get home safely every night when your strict professor dismissed you late or you had to stay on campus until midnight. He knows your full schedule every semester, knows the exact components of your to-go drink, knows what you like or don’t like, knows your favorite band, and even bought you their albums as a gift for your birthday, he’d make sure no one would bother you if you fell asleep in the library, he helped you when you were struggling on your homework and stayed up all night with you, he was there when you needed a shoulder to cry on and said “Just tell me your worries,” or when Mr. Park almost flunked you in one of your majors or just let you cry whatever the reason behind those tears that he wanted to wipe away with his thumbs—Seungmin was that kind of friend. 

And now, there you were. The sounds of the rain replaced the quiet and awkward atmosphere. He looked at you as if you were insane, and why did the need to mention it now after all the wasted time? Not in a public space, Y/N, not in private either! You were sweating in the cold like a convict who was lying about the crime they committed, and your hands were shaking so much that you couldn’t stab the food with your fork. Was confessing this hard? You were ready to be rejected either way because Seungmin silently judged you to the moon and back. 

He took the last bite and drank his iced tea in one gulp before grabbing his coat as he exited the restaurant in the blink of an eye. You were left dejected, but you knew you couldn’t just let him go home without a full essay from your mouth about what just happened. 

“Seungmin, wait! ”You called upon following him outside while letting the rain pour above your head. No umbrellas were brought. “Seungmin! ” 

There was no response again as he continued walking. Seungmin was already a few meters away from the restaurant when you got out. Was he a fast walker? People started to stare at the both of you, but he didn’t even bother to take a glance at what was behind him. You didn’t want to do it, but you just wanted to end the day without saying your feelings—not on graduation day, not after, but now. And being shunned made you feel restless. 

“Seungmin Sky Kim! ”Not the full name, but it made him stop by the sidewalk. Seungmin sighed heavily, his broad shoulders dropping and just letting the rain soak his black locks. You’re not expecting him to turn around and just go finish what you started while standing two meters away. With the rain adding to the dramatic effect, tears being covered by the raindrops, and people watchingーthose words finally came to life. 

“It doesn’t matter whether you turn around, but please hear me out! ”You said, breathing heavily. “You told me to tell you my thoughts, feelings, worries, and whatever the hell I have here in my heart, but we’re out here in the rain with your back turned against me, avoiding me,” It was loud enough for everyone to hear, and it was bold of you to do it in public when he knew you were against yourself doing public speech, but here you are. “I like you, Seungmin! I like you so much that it bothers me because I might not be able to see you after graduation. I just don’t want to keep it anymore, and I want to tell you everything. I’m sorry if it’s making you feel uncomfortable or if I’m ruining our friendship because of what I am saying. I can handle it,” You added in between your sobs. “I tried so hard not to have any attachment aside from being friends, and I know you were just being nice, and you helped me a lot. I’m sorry if I loved you more than that when I’m supposed to be just appreciating and thanking you for always being with me. I loved you as a friend, and I love you as someone who sees more than what you think about yourself. Please don’t hate me. You can do whatever you want after this. Just don’t hate me.”

Seungmin didn’t say anything, as he was still standing there as if someone had told him to freeze on his spot when you just called out his full name. Everyone was waiting—not just you, but all the people watching as if you were shooting a scene for an upcoming melodrama type of movie.

“Are you not going to say anything? ” You asked, wiping your face along with tears that got mixed up with the rain. “Seungmin? ” You called once again. 

Seungmin didn’t know how to react or what to say after that bold move. What was the purpose of being nice to you? At first, it was pure. It doesn’t usually happen, as he was picky in terms of having friends in college, and he was happy when you fully embraced him. You did things for him when he was the one in need, made sure he ate on time in between his busy schedules, let him sleep in your apartment since it’s just a block away from campus, brightened his day when it felt gloomy, the one who treats him like a literal puppy whenever you get cuteness aggression, the one who accompanied him into several road trips where you share gossips, the one he brought home to his parents during the holidays because you are always his first choiceーfuck the rest of his homies (lovingly), the one who made his heart melt every time he sees you happy… maybe he needed that bold confession of yours to realize something. 

You were ready to leave after minutes of waiting and calling for his name, only for him to turn around and actually say something. Just one more minute. Another minute for nothing. 

“You know what? It’s fine; you can go. Thank you for listening anyway. Have a nice life, Seungmin.” You smiled, although he couldn’t see. “Show’s over, everyone. Have a nice day,” you added while clapping your hands as the people around you started to whisper to each other. 

“Poor girl,” 

“Well, that’s how loving someone sometimes, you can’t guarantee they'll return it.” 

“Damn, at least say something.” 

It wasn’t the pressure from the crowd. There was no pressure at all. It was just him; he was confused and didn’t know what to do. But if you were this bold to tell the whole world that you love him, then it’s time to make a decision. 

Everyone was still waiting, even if you had already dismissed them, and not expecting anything from him, but suddenly he turned around, dropped his coat on the wet, cold cement of that fucking sidewalk, and went straight in your direction at a fast pace. You waited for him, and so everyone finally got what they were waiting for him to do. His warm hands were placed on your cheeks as his lips collided with yours. There was a spark. It was so sweet and delicate that it made something melt inside of you. Both of your hearts are racing and your cheeks are burning due to the blood rush. 

You get why everyone was loud around the streets of Seoul. Seungmin didn’t let go of you that easily as your bodies pressed together. His lips tasted like what he just consumed with a mixture of iced tea. They were warm and soft, and you could feel his breath as it tickled your nose. It was like a dream or something that only happens on television, or like how a prince kisses a princess for the first time. It is indeed the first time. 

“It took you long enough to say it,” he said upon pulling away. You sniffed in response and looked down at your shoes, getting soaked. 

“It took you long enough to turn around,” you said, wiping your nose as your eyes met the moment you looked at him. His hands were still warm on your cheeks as he painted a smile on those delicate lips of his that you finally had the opportunity to kiss. 

“That was abrupt. I didn’t know what to do,” he chuckled. You didn’t need Seungmin to say the same words in return. That kiss was enough. 

“I understand.” You smiled as he planted another kiss on your lips. 

“May we go now? We’re going to get sick at this point,” he suggested, making you giggle in response. 

“Of course.” Before you did, Seungmin kissed you on the forehead and picked up his coat. A little girl threw petals on your path as a sign of congratulations to you and the other citizens who witnessed such an event. 

𖹭 ⁺ TWO. 

You believed that you couldn’t find love; instead, love finds you at the perfect time. Seungmin came out of nowhere. It’s like how Isaac Newton discovered gravity after an apple fell above his head or that unexpected strike of lightning in the sky even if there was no hint of bad weather. But thoughts aside, how does it feel to love Seungmin?

It feels like heaven on the inside. 

To expand its denotation, Seungmin is the angel that the heavens sent you when you needed someone, especially during those trying times during college, and his role in your life grew as the days, seasons, and years passed by. 

It’s beautiful, like a lit candle on the windowsill that serves as your light when the electricity is off. It’s unexpected and accidental, like the spilled ink on an architecture student’s tracing paper that was supposedly a mistake, and yet it made a curious pattern instead. It’s exhilarating, like that portrait of you and him being hung on the wall at his parents’ house, which was taken on that one holiday when he brought you home with him and played video games together, sabotaging him, which made him say, “If I lose, it’s your fault! ”Then you would just laugh it off. It’s refreshing, like watching the ocean and other scenery as the train passes by through the city. 

Your heart raced every time you couldn’t sleep until 1 a.m. and would say, “It’s probably because of the coffee.” which you had a few hours earlier, which is not. Blame them for whatever you want; Seungmin is the sole reason behind everything you feel. He’d kiss you in public like a gentleman but becomes dominant when it’s just the two of you; he doesn’t say empty words on those intimate nights and is truly a man of his word. He nags you because he cares; he protects you because he doesn’t want you to get hurt; he treasures you because you’re precious to him; and he needs you because he loves you. 

Love is an understatement, and you could say that words defining what loving Kim Seungmin feels like are not enough for a writer to write them in books. The feelings are sincere. They never changed the moment you decided to love him. You admit there were ups and downs in this relationship. Those nonsense arguments in the middle of the night made one of you storm out of the room, yet he came back a few hours later to apologize, finding out his flaws. He’d insist that he’s not the most perfect boyfriend he could offer you, but even if you close your eyes, he still blooms beautifully like a flower after winter, indicating the start of spring. Seungmin is the definition of perfect; you couldn’t ask for anything else. 

Kim Seungmin is the person who made you feel loved and adored. 

Four years ago, you were just as good as friends—not until your confidence rose like you had consumed a ton of alcohol just to say you loved him. Which you didn't, and yet it was romantic. A confession and a kiss were shared under the rain. Seungmin was happy that you did; you just didn’t seem to understand why he didn’t tell you first when he felt the same and waited for you to make the first move. 

“I was afraid you’d reject me,” he would argue. “You’re braver than me,” he defended. 

“If I didn’t do it, then we’ll just grow apart after graduation, then? ” You asked, as it made him laugh in embarrassment. 

“I was going to tell you after the graduation ceremony, in front of your parents and mine, but someone here got a little bit overwhelmed,” He smiled, ruffling your hair as you huffed in response. “I need to go now, love. I’m running late,” he added, planting a soft kiss on your lips before exiting your room. You hurriedly went out of bed to see him outside, although you had just woken up from a relaxing Sunday night. 

“Will you come home early? ” You asked as he was tying his shoelaces by the entryway of your shared apartment. 

“I’m not sure, but I’ll let you know when I can, alright? ” He answered. “I’ll see you tonight,” He added after he finished and placed one last kiss on your lips before waving goodbye as he vanished through the door. 

A sigh escaped your lips as you locked the door and ate what Seungmin had cooked. He usually wakes up early and cooks for you during the weekdays; it happens every morning, duty calls early anyway, and sometimes he doesn’t spend the night here with you due to his busy schedule. You understand how hectic his job could get; that’s why you visit him if he doesn’t come home and fall asleep while he works. Seungmin doesn’t mind; he loves your presence near him, always. 

In the past four years of this relationship, it has been amazing. At first, he was a cute, innocent puppy that thrived to survive from the very first day of being a freshman, the one whose only goal was to compete and win. Which he did, and that includes your heart. It was him from the start without realizing the fact that you were slowly cascading into something you didn’t sign up for. But that didn’t matter now that you were already spending days with him trying to survive life.

“What do you want for dinner? I’ll cook,” he said over the line as he walked toward his car. “I’ll buy ingredients before coming home. Are you almost done with work? ” 

“Min, you cooked this morning. Let me do it tonight, I’ll meet you at the grocery,” You smiled at your phone, although he couldn’t see it. 

“No, I’ll pick you up. Stay where I can see you immediately, alright? ” He answered while getting in, as a loud thud was heard when he shut the door. “Love you,” 

“Okay, I love you too,” you replied. “Drive safely,” 

“Yes, Ma’am,” 

Seungmin kissed your cheek as you settled on the passenger’s seat, asking how your day went, and the same goes for you, who missed him every bit of the time he was away. It’s like having separation anxiety—you can’t stop thinking that you miss him. The sweet scent of his car, his gentle yet intoxicating perfume, the way he’d hold your hand while the other had its grip on the steering wheel as he kept switching glances from the road to you and vice versa. 

Watching him drive with that straight face that sometimes turns bright as his lips form a smile when he giggles in response to what you said or the fact that he is soft-spoken when it comes to you can validate that you are fucking down bad. You can’t blame yourself for putting your guard down when you were the one who fell first, or so you thought. 

Having to shop together as an act of sharing quality time is one of the biggest love languages Seungmin could ever offer. He doesn’t mind if you come home late; fuck the working hours the next day; he just wants to be with you. 

“Do we have strawberries at home? ”He asked as you strolled over the fruit section. Do you know how much he loves strawberries and can finish a pack within a day? Yes. 

“No, they’re all gone to your stomach,” you said, making him laugh, and you took a few packs. “If it’s not the strawberries, you’d be picking a pack of coffee pods. I swear, you’ll become either of those two in your next life.” 

“What, a coffee bean or strawberry? ”He asked, confused. 

“Yeah, there’s never a day you don’t drink caffeine and a single strawberry, as well as eggs,” you added, which made him do the most adorable thing ever that you couldn’t resist: the sad puppy eyes. 

“Is that a bad thing? ”It made you clutch your chest in awe. How could such a grown-up man be this mature yet act like a small puppy? 

“Yes, and no,” you huffed. “But please don’t do that; you always get it the way you want when you do that,” you added, which made him chuckle in return. 

“Do what? ”He smirked, pushing the cart away. 

“The puppy thing,” you argued, following him to the next food section. 

“I am your puppy, aren’t I? ” 

“Yes, you are.” You sighed while rolling your eyes playfully. 

After that, Seungmin gave you a proud smile and went home with everything you bought. He doesn’t let you carry anything and just holds the door for him to place the groceries by the counter. It happens all the time. You have to put them in place and him preparing to cook after washing up—it’s like the bond of a married couple during the honeymoon phase. 

Hugging him from behind after admiring his broad shoulders, kissing his cheek after smelling the food he’s cooking, a peck on the lips when he gets flustered, your arms around his waist tightened gently because you didn’t want to let go, he holds your hand while the other one was busy stirring the soup. It’s a form of expressing love without words. Actions with reassurance are better than being comforted with words unaccompanied by effort. 

“I’m almost done, love,” he said, but it only made you hug him tighter, earning a heartfelt laugh from him. “You love me that much, don’t you? ” 

“I always do,” you pouted as he pressed the off button of your electric stove. 

“Come here,” he said, turning around and capturing you into his arms and kissing your lips over and over again, making you giggle in between. 

Eating together while catching up on what happened at work, helping him wash the dishes afterward, and poking some soap bubbles on your nose to make you laugh at how childish it was is another form of bonding—a playful one. 

“Go to sleep,” he said as you both got into each other’s arms, lying on your shared bed. 

“No,” you’d say. 

“Then no kisses for you tomorrow,” he answered, which made you frown at the thought. 

“Fine,” you said as he kissed your lips softly. “Good night,” you added, looking at him with his cheek squished on the pillow. 

“Good night, love,” he said, giving you another kiss on the forehead. 

They say you'll fall asleep immediately when you’re sleeping with someone whom you feel safe around, and by that means, Seungmin is that someone. You get so dependent on him that your body gets used to him, and it releases dopamine and serotonin, which is proven to be true. With his arms around your back, his soft heartbeat on his chest, his gentle smell, soft breaths, and cuddly nature, you just wanted to stay there forever. 

Living with him and having to spend each day like this is like a dream come true that you never want to end. It is endearing; it has a sense of comfort that you can’t find anywhere but here, with him. And it is something you can call home. 

𖹭 ⁺ THREE. 

You didn’t know what you did in your past life or why you deserved to be loved by Seungmin. To you, he is perfect. He’s the type of boyfriend that a lot of people want for themselves. It is also hard to understand why he chose you out of all those surrounding him. You were sure it wasn’t because of the non-existent pressure he felt when you confessed to him four years ago, and complaining would be the last thing you'd do in this relationship. So, how does Seungmin love?

He shows it from time to time. A love that you can’t find in somebody else. It existed at the very beginning, and it will last until the very end. 

Seungmin couldn’t ask for anything. For him, it was like opening Pandora’s box, but it consisted of great and unexpected good things, like an acceptance letter from his dream university or a treasure chest that would make him automatically rich. And he is the most thankful to have you in his life—probably the most precious gift from the heavens. It’s like a puppy being adopted and falling in love at first sight when he knows who’s going to be his owner. 

“I love loving you,” he said. It was sudden, as he was waiting for you to be done packing your things for the trip that you’d been planning for months. A smile was formed on your face, giggling at the fact that it made you caught off guard.

“Why?” You asked softly. 

“Honestly, I don’t know,” He laughed making you frown in response. “Maybe because you take care of me so well even during those times when I couldn’t look out for myself, or maybe because you love me too much that I wouldn’t ask for anything more. I can’t answer the question ‘Why?’” He shrugged. 

“Well.” You paused, smirking at the thought. “Your actions are speaking louder than words, Love.”

“Hmm, do I?” He asked, tilting his head to the side upon taking the bag off your hands. 

“Yeah,” You smiled. “You don’t need words to tell you love someone,” 

“Am I not good with words?” He asked, giving you those sad puppy eyes again. 

“You are. But please don’t give me that look or I’m going to tackle you down.” You threatened making him laugh in return. 

“You love my puppy eyes.” He teased as you rolled your eyes in response. 

“Yes, you can show those puppy eyes later! And that should be all. Shall we go now?” You answered.

“Of course,” He said, placing a soft kiss on your lips before leaving your shared apartment. “Can’t wait to spend the long weekend with you!” He beamed excitedly. 

He’s not the type to express his love through words. Apart from giving you quality time in this relationship, he also offers acts of service that may have knocked your heart out ever since your university days. He’s the type to do things for you instead of tiring yourself. Seungmin always has his way to your heart without you noticing at first. They can be silly at times, maybe serious, or just the little things; he doesn’t mind. Even for other people, it will just be the bare minimum for a man to serve you, but Seungmin is way bigger than that.

Seungmin loves you like Shakespeare loved his wife and dedicated his sonnets to her. It’s giddy like a teenage girl writing how much they adore her crush in a love letter. It could raise someone’s standards, like how a writer writes and portrays a protagonist who would do anything for their partner—a fictional character that became everyone’s ideal type. Sometimes it would feel like the ice blended well with the whiskey poured into the glass. It's like a florist making their favorite bouquet that consists of the prettiest flowers in the shop. Fun like kids playing on the playground. It's comfortable, like having a cup of hot chocolate as you sit together on a couch while watching the rain on the balcony. Lively and filled with excitement, like seeing your favorite band’s concert, reassuring, like a prayer that always works. 

It feels nice. 

“Seungmin! ”It would always make him feel nice when you’re around, especially when his name comes out of your mouth like a melody that captures his heart and mind in a split second. 

“Baby? ”His heart would race as if it were the first time. A giddy smile would appear as he’d turn around to face you like a puppy getting excited, with a wagging tail, full of expectations, ready to cuddle and smother you with kisses. Hugs are not enough to show how affectionate he is.

“Yes?” Seungmin answered snapping himself back to reality. 

“Shall we take a stroll? ”You asked as he watched you enjoy the sunset by the beach as the wind blew around your hair, and tucking it behind your ear made him fall in love with you even more. Beautiful is just a word of restraint from what he sees—a word mixed up with similar definitions. Heavenly. 

“Okay,” He smiled. 

The genuine smile you’re wearing, the way you laugh, and the way you talk a lot about the beautiful scenery could make him listen to you all day. He’d hold your hand while walking together barefoot on the sand, and the other hand would carry your shoes. You’d always hold him accountable for not looking at anyone but him. Why would you be surprised when he suddenly burst into your door with a full package of everything you wanted? And just like both of your monologues always say, you couldn’t and won’t ask for anything more. Enough is not the right word. 

Loving you is one of the greatest decisions he ever made in his life, after thanking his parents for giving him life almost three decades ago. Living in the same lifetime as you, the same year, the same seasons and events, and being grateful are just some of the euphemisms in between sentences. I got love-struck to the brain and heart, then ended up as a lovesick puppy, like seeing stars despite the raindrops. Down bad as fuck. 

As the door closed and knobs were locked, with the room installed with dim lights after clicking the second switch, you threw your arms around Seungmin’s neck as he sealed your lips with a kiss, his hands around your waist, pulling you closer to his body. Your fingers played with his new, trimmed black locks that you thought looked good on him. A new style that made your heart go crazy as it showed you another side of him. 

He left out a soft sound against your lips, tasting the rosehip lip balm that coated its skin. His one hand found its way to caressing your neck as he deepened the kiss and later held your cheek to make it more passionate and impatient. You know this is not the first time he has ever held you like this as you make out, but it will always feel like the first time. He moved his mouth slowly and gently onto yours, biting and sucking the lower part of your lips, earning a soft groan from you. A smirk was painted on his lips when he knew you liked it. That’s one thing about him: he gets cocky when he knows he gets the upper hand and gets what he wants. But you don’t mind at all; everything from you is for him, and everything from him is for you. 

“I love you so much,” he says as he pulls an inch away. 

“And I love you more.” You smiled at him, planting a chaste kiss on his lips, and he returned it upon placing another kiss on your forehead. 

Seungmin looked at you as you slept comfortably beside him that night. A gentle face with a calm expression as you fall deep into slumber because you know he’s there with you. His fingertips traced your cheeks down to your lips, slowly leaning forward to give you a soft and warm good-night kiss, which made you hum in response, scooting closer. A light giggle escaped his lips while wrapping his arms around your back and leaving another kiss on the crown of your head, feeling your warmth. 

“I don’t know why you chose me, but I promise I will love you forever, and if this is a dream, I don’t want to wake up anymore. I love you, Y/N.” 

You heard that. He never gets tired of saying he loves you, because why would he when his entire heart was solely captured by you? It doesn’t take a lot of time to fall for him even more. It only made you hug him tighter and drift into a dream. 

Seungmin fell asleep immediately after that. He doesn’t know if it’s because of the trip if his hormones are releasing happiness, or if his brain is set so that he has you by his side; it doesn’t matter that much. A long weekend with you feels like a dream after days of working. 

The morning came, and he woke up first, like usual. He got up and left the bed, trying not to make large movements to wake you up, and headed to the bathroom. You shifted your sleeping position like a starfish getting washed away from the shore. Seungmin tilted his head like a curious puppy, seeing you under that creased duvet when he came out. His footsteps dragged him to the huge windows from the ceiling to the floor, and he opened the curtains, welcoming the gentle morning sunshine and making you pull the cover above your head. 

“Baby! ”He called. “Wake up! ” 

“10 minutes.” You groaned when he decided to hover above you and put his weight on your body. “Min! ”You exclaimed, tossing the duvet off of your head and seeing him all smiley. 

“Wake up, wake up, wake up! ”He beamed. The only ones missing are his puppy ears and a wagging tail. 

“So much energy, Min huh?” You asked while caressing his hair. “What happened to Good Morning?” 

“I ate it,” he said, which made you burst out laughing. 

“You look happy, Min.” You answered as Seungmin moved away and helped you sit up. 

“Why wouldn’t I when I’m with you? Besides, we have a lot to do today and so much to eat. I’m sure my heart will be delightful as much as my stomach,” he said. “I found a breakfast place yesterday when we were coming back to the hotel and thought maybe we could try their food. ”Then there go his puppy eyes again. 

“Min, you know, giving me those puppy eyes or not, we’ll do whatever you want at this point. I can’t say no to you.” You huffed in response, making him smirk. 

“You’re so down bad,” he answered while slipping into your flip-flops. 

“Says the one who doesn’t want to wake up from this dream.” You smirked, making him freeze on his spot. 

“You heard? ”He asked, shakingly. 

“Every word, Min, every word,” you answered while making your way to the bathroom. 

“You were awake?! ”He asked, flabbergasted, as you closed the door, leaving him blushing and painting a sly smile on your face. 

Pulling a chair for you to sit on, setting the cutlery on the table properly, wiping the whipped cream excess on the corner of your lips after a bite of a pancake, it went as planned that you visited the breakfast place he mentioned a while ago. The sweet and sour taste of strawberries mixed with the maple syrup and whipped cream indeed, started a blissful morning. Your boyfriend enjoyed it with coffee too albeit the times he said that he’s going to cut off caffeine slowly but you’re sure he won’t be able to do that easily. 

Holding hands while strolling around the neighborhood and shopping for cute things, food, maybe a couple of clothes, and other souvenirs, Seungmin was all up for them as you take a picture in front of a mirror every time you get a chance. You giggle at every picture when you swipe through your gallery. Seungmin never fails to make silly poses and act cute. It became a habit of his and on the other hand, he also does his boyfriend duties like taking candid pictures of you if you weren’t paying attention to him. 

Seungmin’s love is fresh like spring, warm as summer, cool as autumn, and beautiful as winter. His feelings remained like the very first time you left a blush on his cheeks, your heart beating faster the way a doctor could hear it through their stethoscope, and a shot of espresso in the morning. You can’t blame him if he could still feel this way when the love you gave him from the start never changed. Four years is such a long time, yet it passes by like four days. 

Your parents know as much as his. Both agreed and voted for love and devotion. Unbearable fights should be fixed before going to sleep and sealed with a kiss. His friends would tease him, yet they respect you by taming a menace that later became a lovesick, hopeless romantic, Kim Seungmin, who once didn’t believe in forever but wants to spend his eternity with you. 

𖹭 ⁺ FOUR. 

A back hug in the morning while brushing your teeth in the bathroom, having him pick your clothes for the day, and the same goes for him, asking to let him taste the flavor of your lip tint, but in reality, he just wanted a kiss, which sometimes leads to a make-out session where you have to redo your hair and makeup again, always unpredicted. He is just making you speechless all the time. Does having a relationship with Seungmin always feel like that? 

Yes, but at the same time, no. 

The spark in this relationship never dies as you two share the same affection for each other, though there are times that Seungmin is hard to love. But there are times when you and Seungmin have to go through tough times. It comes to its peak, especially when he is at his lowest and has unexpected tantrums, and the toxicity of this affair is on the surface. Seungmin is not the type to make himself vulnerable in front of you; instead, he goes far away and makes excuses for you not to bother him. 

He gives you the silent treatment when he’s upset; he doesn’t want you to see him cry; he doesn’t want to talk about anything, and you hate it. You know he’s the person who would always initiate a conversation when there was something to be talked about and never let anyone sleep unless the problem had been settled. Yet, it’s unusual for you to scream and shout at each other in the middle of the night as one storm out of the room and the other is left with tears in their eyes, confused about what just happened and where it all went wrong. 

Seungmin would always speak up for himself, as long as he was on the right side of the argument. You agree that he gets brutally honest when defending himself, saying that it would hurt you a lot. His words are sharp as knives that can stab you multiple times, and you are just afraid to admit that he always has a point. One thing about him is that he’s mature and mentally strong. He’s like a fire that is hard to wash out when mad (and literally hot). But, on the other hand, he’s careful. There was never a time in your life that he chose not to listen to your every worry, comfort you when you needed it, and reassure you that everything would be fine. He doesn’t invalidate you. 

There was this one time when you had a huge fight about him being linked to a co-worker, and he brushed it off, knowing that nothing was going on between them. He reassured you that he was just being polite, not in a way that he’d tolerate the girl’s actions toward him, but jealousy had taken all over your system, and you closed your ears for every piece of explanation he had. Of course, he got mad as to why you didn’t believe him. The sickening sounds of arguments echoed across the room. Seungmin was hurt, and that was the first time he said something that crushed your soul. 

“If you don’t trust me, then it was such a fucking waste spending four fucking years with you! ” 

“You never admitted I was right, even if you’re wrong! I would always initiate everything first because of your fucking pride! ” 

“Did you ever think that I would cheat on you just because of some stupid girl who can’t understand the words that I have a fucking girlfriend waiting for me at home? ”

“I fucking love you, Y/N, so if we’re going to stand on the ground like this, I think we should think about what’s going to happen in this relationship.” 

“You disappoint me, Y/N.” 

And that’s when he left. You went home to your parents the next day in the province and didn’t even bother to tell anyone, maybe, Seungmin does. The manager at your workplace thought you were just taking sick leave; even your work best friend, Felix, didn’t know what happened or where you were. Seungmin, on the other hand, stayed at his older sister’s apartment and distracted himself from what just happened. He thought about what he said, and it was harsh of him to shoo you away. He was also on leave to take care of himself and his nephew. 

One thing about Seungmin is that he’s open-minded. He didn’t get mad when you introduced your male friends to him; instead, he became friends with them, especially Felix. If he gets jealous, then he knows something is wrong behind his back. Unlike you, who would jump to conclusions because you don’t know what’s going on inside their heads. It’s not like you don’t trust Seungmin at all, but you know how other people can be when no one is watching, and you admit you were so sick of thinking bad about your boyfriend. 

To him, he can throw this relationship away anytime he gets tired, and you admit it was your fault for adding fuel to the fire. But now, you couldn’t face him. You were embarrassed, afraid of losing him, and anxious that he might fall for someone else, or maybe he could fall out of love. There are a lot of possibilities. And yet, Seungmin doesn’t think any of that. He was so upset about how you acted, and he was so damn tired that night, only to be welcomed by false accusations that led you both to cool off. But Seungmin knew that he couldn’t last a few days without your presence. 

And if you’d be honest, you wouldn’t say Seungmin is that walking green flag who is so perfect in front of everyone, neither do you. No one is a green flag. People are just blinded by what they see on the outside and what others say about their partners. You may say that Seungmin is a definition of perfect but not the literal definition of perfect. It is another version of what you see is perfect, a compliment caused by love to remove the flaws from your sight like how your brain dumps unnecessary information to cater to the new ones. There is always that fucking toxicity that they are afraid to admit. 

“Uncle! Uncle! ”Minsoo, his 5-year-old nephew, called. 

“Yes, baby? ”Seungmin’s attention was caught. 

“When is Aunt Y/N visiting? ”Minsoo asked again with those puppy eyes and pouty lips he probably got from his uncle. 

“Yeah. I know you guys are not on good terms right now, but it has been days, bro.” His sister heard and added while slicing some fruits for her son. Minsoo took it immediately and pouted at him even more. 

“Did you and Aunt Y/N fight? ”He asked and was about to cry. Seungmin was panicking inside that he had to lift the young fellow to sit on his lap and sighed heavily. 

“We just had to cool off, okay Bub? When we say cool off, that means we take a break and be alone for some time so we can freshen up and talk later, okay? ”Seungmin was reassured, but Minsoo didn’t buy his statement at first; instead, he became sulky. 

“Aunt Y/N loves you so much,” he murmured. “She said she wouldn’t hurt you. I don’t know what that means, but when you and Aunt Y/N were playing with me at the park because Mom was at work, I could see how happy she was while looking at you. You mean the whole world to her, and mine are Mom’s chicken nuggets and ice cream,” Minsoo frowned. Seungmin didn’t know if he was going to laugh or give a long sigh, but his sister at the kitchen counter giggled before making her way to both of them, placing the fruits on the coffee table. 

“You remember that? ”Seungmin asked. 

“You know Minsoo is quick-witted just like you.” His sister smiled at him. “And he probably loves Y/N more than you too! ” 

“Yes,” Minsoo agreed, which made Seungmin laugh in return with made his sister show a bit of concern. Well, she is concerned. 

“I don’t want to meddle with your business with her, Seungmin, but as someone who is in a longer relationship than you, it happens. I mean, I’m not going to take anyone’s side in this matter since you’re both in the wrong; her not giving full trust, and you snapped at her for it when there’s nothing to hide,” she said as she fed her son with a bite-sized strawberry. “I know my brother doesn’t tolerate such actions, and there’s nothing wrong with calling her out, but you’ve been staying here for days, not working, and crying at night because of whatever reason that you have. Don’t you think it’s time for you to find her? I’m sure she misses you like you do.” 

“I’m always the first one who would initiate making up with her,” Seungmin sighs. “I just want her to realize that she can do it first, you know? Like come up or call me and apologize to me.” 

“I know, but if you’re going to wait for her then it might take some time and you don’t like waiting, I know you.” His sister chuckled. 

“You said you wouldn’t be biased but it feels like you’re siding with her,” Seungmin said looking at his sister, still feeding his nephew. 

“I am not,” She shrugged as he rolled his eyes in return. 

Seungmin did think it through the night after that. He couldn’t sleep and kept tossing and turning. It took him a few days before, finally made that engine roar and traveled to the province. His sister’s husband also talked him through when he got home and shared a few drinks. It may have caused a hangover but he got over it and drove out of the city on a sunny afternoon. 

He rolled up his sleeves as his veiny hands tightened their grip on the steering wheel while trying to reach out for a signal to call you. A heavy sigh escaped his lips when you didn’t answer any of his damn calls. He called Felix instead, asking how you had been but the latter couldn’t answer for he doesn’t know too, even your whereabouts, and he is also worried. 

“Just a sick leave, Lix. I’m not going anywhere but I think I’m going to take some time off from my phone and everything. Don’t worry, I’ll call you when I’m better.” That’s what you told him with that fake smile and red, puffy eyes from crying. Felix let it through and didn’t ask questions. He just went up and gave you the most comforting hug, telling you to be safe and healthy and that you’d call him immediately. 

He rested his elbow by the window while his fingers played with his lips as he drove with one hand, drowning in deep thoughts. After days of no communication, he doesn’t know how to speak with you and makeup. It’s not like it’s his very first time initiating a conversation but this is the very first time that you had to not see each other for days. Mostly fights can be solved in one night but maybe Seungmin grew a bit tired that time. Now he’s nervous. He’s driving his way to your parents’s house and will apologize in front of them and to you. He was expecting a lot. 

Seungmin was frustrated with that information and hissed after Felix dropped the call. He stepped on the gas as the car accelerated through the highway. It would take hours to get there, and he’s hoping he’d find you before the sun goes down.  

He arrived at the hour he expected and parked the car outside of your parents’s house. Seungmin was welcomed by your dad who happened to be taking a stroll around the neighborhood. It was an unexpected visit and Seungmin didn’t give a heads up. He knows it was rude of him to show up unannounced but he didn’t think about it through when all he wanted was to see you. 

“What the hell are you doing here?”  Your father asked him the moment he stepped out of the car. 

“I’m so sorry for coming here unannounced Sir, but I’m here to see Y/N,” Seungmin said with the most respectful bow he ever done. 

“She doesn’t want to see you,” Your father scoffed, crossing his arms on his chest and that’s when your mother showed up after noticing the black car from the front porch. 

“Seungmin? Is that you?” Your mother asked as he approached the men talking at a distance. Seungmin took a glance at her and bowed again. 

“Ma’am.” He said. “I apologize for coming here without telling you in advance. I just thought about coming to see Y/N and apologizeー” But he was stopped when your mother went to hug him and he was caught off guard. He admits it was comforting and reassuring while your dad kept on giving him a death stare. Of course, he knew that he was just being protective of his daughter even though Seungmin is already a legal member of your family. Still. 

“She’s in the field with the cows and horses,” She whispered and pulled away. 

“Thank you, Ma’am,” Seungmin said and bowed multiple times before running to the open field. 

𖹭 ⁺ FIVE. 

You were sitting on a swing while looking at the fresh scenery with the air blowing your hair. It has been a while since the last time you were home and you missed life in the province. If it wasn’t for the fight you had with your boyfriend, you wouldn’t be here right now. But you admit you miss Seungmin so much that you think about him, always. And you’ve been thinking about your uncalled behavior that night. 

The cold breeze had lessened the heavy weight that you carried on your shoulders as you thought of a solution on how to make up with him. You know told Felix that you’d take some time off from everything and come back when you’re better. The sick leave was abrupt and you couldn’t wait for your vacation to be approved. You don’t know if you still have a job when you come back but it’s just already been a few days to cool off. And as the cows moo and the horses neigh, you just sat there trying too hard to hold those tears knowing that you fucked this up. You miss Seungmin and not talking to him for the past few days has been hard. He didn’t even contact you after your do-not-disturb mode was off. No texts, no missed calls, no emails, nothing. 

A heavy sigh escaped your lips as your head hung low, watching your feet sway back and forth as you swung. The crowd was quiet, too peaceful, and lonely. Just a bunch of cows and horses around, judging you. Your head was in your hands as you stopped with your elbows on your knees, trying to think of an excuse to text him. Another sigh of frustration was heard when you couldn’t think of anything. But all worries were washed down when you heard someone was approaching you. 

And it was him, the one that you’ve been waiting for. 

“Seungmin?” You called as you stood up from your seat. 

He was catching his breath. 

“What are you doing here?” You asked, approaching him as he stopped meters away. 

“Let me breathe for a second,” He said, lifting his index finger in the air as his other hand clutched his chest. 

“Did you run all the way fromー” 

“From your house to here? Yes. Your mother said you’re here and I forgot about how far this is.” He said still catching his breath. “Look, Y/N, I know I fucked up and I shouldn’t have raised my voice at you when you were just worried but believe me, I would never ever cheat on you. And that’s a promise. There’s no one else in my life but you.” Tears started to form in your eyes as Seungmin held your hands and locked eyes with you. “And I’m sorry. I’m sorry I was so worked up that I yelled and said those words without holding myself up and not thinking that it would hurt you. And I’m sorry for not calling you these past few days because I was reflecting and I heard from Felix not to disturb you. I hope you forgive me.” He said, pulling you closer to his body and planting a soft kiss on our forehead before taking you all in his armsーhugging you tightly as if he never got to hold you in years. 

“I’m sorry,” You said as you were sobbing on his chest. “I didn’t mean it to be like that I was just paranoid. I know you’re a bad guy, Seungmin. I’m sorry.” 

“Shh, shh it’s okay. We’re both here now.” He said in the softest and sweetest voice he could ever do as he kept on kissing the crown of your head while caressing your hair. “I love you, okay? No one could replace you in my heart, ever.” It made you smile a bit, but you were still guilty about what happened that night. You accused him. 

“Still, I was dumb…” You said. “How could I do that to you when all you did is to love me faithfully.” You added as you looked down on your feet again. Seungmin took a deep breath as a smile curved on his lips, taking his fingers on your chin as he lifted your head gently to look at him in the eyes again. 

“You are not dumb. Don’t say that to yourself, okay? I know it’s hard to trust us men these days because of the cheating culture but don’t ever think of me that way, baby, okay? Like I said, no one could ever replace you in my heart even if you think otherwise. I’m true and I’m standing my ground. Even if your father wants to shoot me, I will take the bullet to prove how much I am true to you.” And it only made you cry more. How could someone be as comforting, endearing, and perfect as him? “And I don’t blame you for thinking so, but, I hope you wouldn’t think about me like that again. It hurts, you know?��� You nodded in response. 

“I’m sorry,” You said. 

“We’re good now, love.” He smiled, giving you a quick kiss on your lips. 

“I have something to say,” You said, looking at him. 

“What is it?” He asked. 

“The last few days, I’ve been thinking about you a lot.” You started while playing with your fingers. “I know I played a huge part of the problem and taking some time off made me realize how I was so fucked up that night. I swear, that wasn’t me who was talking but I was just afraid that maybe one day, you’d leave me because I was the one who called you in public to confess four years ago because I fucking love you so much that I would die if you’re not going to be mine.” Seungmin stood just there, amused and in awe of what you’ve said, and now you’re thinking that he might be thinking that you’re crazy but he’s yours now. No one could ever take Seungmin from you. 

“I know, I’m crazy and there’s a lot of me that are yet to be relieved. I don’t know what caused that argument maybe that stupid bitch and I’m guilty, okay? I just wanted to let everything out of my chest before we proceeded to this relationship that I almost ruined. I overthink too much, I am selfish sometimes, and I hurt you a lot, I made you cry, I was the reason you snapped at me, I’ve got a lot of crazy things inside my head and it’s making me go insane…” The rest of the words became a blur to Seungmin. He doesn’t need to hear everything as he admired the way you vent out and you were so cute walking in circles just to explain yourself. That didn’t matter now. You are the most beautiful person in his world. 

He pulled you towards him again as he crashed his lips against yours, kissing you passionately as his hand cupped your cheek and the other snaked around your waist. It was unexpected. You both stood on the wide green grass field with the cows and horses as the audience as you shared a kiss under an orange sky and a bright sunset. 

The kiss deepened as your eyes closed, feeling the intimate and adrenaline kind of rush that Seungmin’s lips have brought. It was tentative, soft, and hot, both of your hearts were pounding with every bit of movement and rhythm. His thumb started caressing your cheekbones gently as he pulled you even closer to engage the feeling of longing to kiss your lips and the warmth you’d always give. You could feel his hot breath against your nose as your fingers entangled with his black locks, playing with them. Seungmin smiled in between your lips before leaving a soft peck on it and proceeded to kiss your forehead. 

“If you’re that worried, marry me.” He said as you both pulled away. 

“W-what?” You asked as you got caught off guard. 

“I know you’d say something like that but again, if you’re worried that much then,” He paused as he took out a small box from his pocket and went down on one knee. “Marry me.” He added, opening the box to reveal a ring with an authentic sapphire on it. Your hands went to cover your mouth in shock as tears started to stream down to your cheeks. What the fuck, Kim Seungmin. 

“You already know how much I love you and to make a seal of this relationship, this is a promise that we will love and trust each other no matter what happens. You don’t have to worry about it anymore, Y/N. Marry me so you’d be officially mine and I’ll be legally yours.” He said. “Will youー” 

“Yes! Yes fuck yes!” You cried as you went down on your knees and hugged him tight. Seungmin giggled at the sight as he pulled out the ring from the box and gently placed it around your ring finger after you pulled away. 

“I love you,” You told him, eyes filled with tears as he wiped them off with his thumbs. 

“I love you too.” He said. “More than anything in this world,” He added as he hugged you again. 

“I’ll forever cherish this moment, love.” 

“Me too, baby…” He replied, hugging you tight. “And we should go now, your dad was glaring at me when I arrived.” 

“You came all over from Seoul to here without saying anything, he was probably surprised.” You answered as you both went back on your feet with Seungmin grabbing the small box and giving it to you to place the second ring on his finger. 

“I did it for you.” He said, stealing a kiss on your lips. 

“Don’t make me say, I love you, twice.” You said as you gave him another kiss. 

“You just did,” He smirked as you both giggled at the end and went back to your parents’ houseーhappy about what just happened. 

Bonus: His sister sent you a video of him when he was so drunk, crying and wailing to his brother-in-law about how much he loves and misses you. He also bought the ring after the trip when he realized that he was ready to settle down. Seungmin was sure that you’re the one he’s going to marry anyway, no one else. 

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©️ 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐋𝐎𝐒𝐓𝐒𝐄𝐔𝐍𝐆𝐌𝐈𝐍 , 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒.

[mckennagrafwrites]

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[pealeii]

i love proofreading friends’ fics

[fairyhaos]

how seventeen act with their writer s/o

requested by anon ^^

masterlist

seungcheol

he is begging. he is on his knees BEGGING you to pls let him buy you a new laptop because the one you use is literally on its last legs and makes ominous sputtering n whirring sounds like a dying cat stuck in a vent every time you start it up. you don't let him tho bc “no cheol the memories :(((“ cuz you've had it for years but he is nearing the end of his tether and who knows. in a few days ur laptop may mysteriously disappear forever and you'll be forced to let him buy a new one

jeonghan

he's like the pet cat you don't own who likes to slink into the room and make inquisitive noises as he watches you work. drapes himself over your shoulders and makes distressed huffs when you try to dislodge him. he's never usually noticeably clingy, but when you try to write, the clinginess always springs out and you can't go five minutes without jeonghan poking his head into the room to check up on you and see what you're up to

joshua

your biggest fan. buys every single novel you write, puts on his glasses, and reads them very seriously in one go on the very evening it's released with the lamp on beside him. he looks so serious every time, but he'll always peer at you over his glasses and then give you a big grin, telling you how much he loves it. gets you to sign a copy for him and brags to everyone he knows that he has your signed novels with special messages just for him that no one else can have

junhui

he's your personal general knowledge bank. when you're searching up obscure things and slowly losing hope on finding an answer, just ask junhui and he'll either a) know the answer or b) knows someone who knows someone else who knows someone else else who knows the answer. don't ask him how to spell words tho bc he's like. hopelessly bad. blinks at you going “what's an [insert word]” before you give up and google it yourself

hoshi

alwaysssss wants to know what you're working on right now. gets all whiny when you get possessive of your work and refuse to show him before it's finished bc come on, it's surely perfect already, why are you trying to hide it from him?? loves helping you do, like, the non writing stuff. writing out plot? nooo. building fantasy maps, figuring out political systems, getting lost on a tangent on figuring out the price of beans in the 1800s? hell yeah sign him up!!! 

wonwoo

knows all the grammar rules in the world. you can ask him stuff like “hey wonwoo can i put a comma here or no” and he'll amble over to peer over your shoulder and tell you whether you can or cannot, in fact, put a comma there. helps you curate all your writing playlists for the different moods you have. gently reminds you to get back to writing whenever you end up scrolling on instagram for too long

woozi

you're even more of a workaholic than he is when in the zone, so he gets to realise how unhealthy it is to be sat in front of a computer for hours straight with no break. you get to act as each other's “let's act like a normal human being now” reminders, depending on which of you is going through a work fixation. you guys both go on runs together in the mornings even though it kills you bc at least it gets both of yo brains kickstarted to spend a day being all creative in ur respective fields

minghao

you value his opinion above anyone else's. above your beta reader's, above your agent's, even above your editor's bc those are more like advice, not opinions. but knowing that minghao likes your work, and knowing which parts in particular he really likes, is so important to you because ultimately, you want the person you love to also love the things that you create. 

mingyu

brings up the fact that you're a writer in every conversation he has with anyone ever. “oh my god look, this menu has writing on it. speaking of writing, my s/o writes actual books as a job!!!!”. your agent made him sign a contract similar to an NDA bc he just keeps yapping about your books even when they haven't been released yet. loves the noises you make whilst you're writing. thinks it's the cutest thing ever when you make overjoyed “AHA!!” sounds when you finally realise what the plot is doing

dokyeom

more than willing to be your rubber duck and let you talk at him until u figure out your own plot holes. he could be in his room scrolling on his phone but the minute you call for him, he's leaping up and bounding over to you and pulling up a chair in an instant, more than willing to let you bounce ideas off him. sits there doing nothing but looking all pretty as you talk at him and work out the tangle you've gotten yourself into. beams and gives you a big kiss when you manage to figure it all out. 

seungkwan

he buys you a biiiig wheely whiteboard and a bunch of coloured board pens to help you plot your novels. when you get stuck, he comes over and stares at the board with his hands on his hips, very gravely considering your dilemma and what would be the best way to get you out of it. you two talk about plot holes like it's the most serious thing in the world and he just nods like a proud father once you both find a solution

vernon

at this point he's like. a professional tea and coffee and biscuits supplier due to the amount of snack runs he does for you. has walked in on you lying face down on the floor during a meltdown one too many times to bat an eye anymore. also great at helping you block out actions during scenes like. he's the perfect doll. lets you maneuver him into the weirdest positions in the world with zero complaints. he just loves helping you however he can, really. 

chan

reads through your drafts whilst you're in the middle of writing, accidentally gets hooked and is begging you every day to finish the novel bc he really wants to know what happens next. he's the best at spotting inconsistencies and plot holes in ur writing so before you even send it off to your beta reader, he gets to have his hands on the manuscript to check for any changes needed. also bc he needs to read the ending asap otherwise he'll probably combust. 

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reactions tags: @weird-bookworm @minhui896 @slytherinshua @haowrld @belladaises @newgirlygirl @moonlitskiiies @mirxzii @wonranghaeee @yonabutnotyuna @crackedpumpkin @wqnwoos @kthstrawberryshortcake-main @kawennote09 @a-wandering-stay @icyminghao @valenhui @sweet-like-caramel @odxrilove @kyeomyun @chansburgah @pepperonijem @jeonride @kellesvt @kikohao @astrozuya @eightlightstar @onlyyjeonghan @aaniag @starshuas @all-american-fangirl @f1uffyjun @sea-moon-star @nonononranghaee @isabellah29 @mcu-incorrect @hrts4hanniehae @suraandsugar @pan-de-seungcheol @dokyeomkyeom @melodicrabbit @bananabubble

[maccreadysbaby]

Writing Tips; Dialogue

Does your dialogue fall flat, or feel thin and strange? Does it feel like your characters are talking like robots? Do your conversations sound repetitive and monotone? We’ve all been there. It’s a very common occurrence amongst writers. Here are some of my favorite ways to avoid the monotone robot characters and add life and movement into your dialogue!

In this post, we’re going to have an example sentence that changes as I talk about different additions. Here it is in its naked, base form: “I know it’s real I saw it,” Nico said.

Now, let’s hop into making it lively, shall we?

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1) PUNCTUATION

Commas and punctuation are your best friends! Use them. Use the crap out of them. Many people will say commas can’t go here and they can’t go there, but I say, in dialogue, it doesn’t matter. If you want your character to pause but you don’t want to use an ellipsis because it feels too long, use a comma. Put them wherever you want. Wherever your character pauses. If your character is rambling or talking really fast, take them out. It’s your dialogue. Use any and all punctuation to bedazzle up your lines. There is never too many or too little of anything if you want it that way, folks.

Keep in mind, punctuation can change the whole feeling of your sentence and the way your readers imagine your character talking. For example, your punctuation should differ between an excited and a sad line.

Here is the example sentence, punctuated in two different ways. “I know it’s real, I saw it!” Nico said. “I know it’s real… I saw it,” Nico said.

Can you see how just the change in punctuation changes the way you imagine him saying it? Really hone in on how your character is speaking and punctuate it to show that. (Keep in mind that this is your story and your character. You don’t have to obey punctuation rules and writing stereotypes, your story obeys you.) Put whatever punctuation you want there. Use thirty commas in your sentence. Use an ellipsis after every word. If it makes your character sound how you want them to sound, go for it, friends!

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2) ITALICS

Some people hate reading over-italicized works, but that’s their own preference. Italics is a great way to add interest, movement, and a characters natural inflection into your dialogue. (I freaking love italics.) Italics helps readers understand what the character is focused on, and how they’re speaking. Again, people will say not to use it too much or only to use it so many times in a paragraph… but the key here is still to write it how you like it. Italics can make your sentences sound more human and more authentic.

Here is our pair of examples, now with punctuation and italics. “I know it’s real, I saw it!” Nico said. “I know it’s real… I saw it,” Nico said.

Take a minute and read through the example dialogue, imagining each word italicized one by one. Pay attention to the meaning and context it gives it. (For example, if the ‘I’ at the beginning is in italics — I know it’s real — that could imply that he’s talking to someone who doesn’t know or believe whatever he’s talking about is real.)

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3) DIALOGUE TAGS

Tags. Tags, tags, tags! Tags are so important! Tags are brilliant for clarifying and identifying exactly how your character is speaking and how they intend for the statement to come across. If you ignore every other tip in this post, don’t ignore the tag! There are so many different words you could use instead of said that give life and context to your lines. Muttered, mumbled, yelled, shouted, exclaimed, whined, groaned, whispered, and a ton ton ton more. Use these to your advantage, like an outline for your dialogue. The tag is undoubtedly the easiest way to make your lines come across the way you want them to.

Here’s the examples with different tags! “I know it’s real, I saw it!” Nico defended. “I know it’s real… I saw it,” Nico mumbled.

Don’t be afraid to move your tag around, either! Sometimes, in order to make your conversations less repetitive, moving your tags are nice. You can put them at the beginning, middle, or end! (Middle tags are my favorite, I use them a whole, whole lot…)

Here’s the example sentence with a tag at the beginning and middle. Nico growled: “I know it’s real, I saw it!” “I know it’s real…” Nico muttered. “I saw it.”

Don’t forget, tags don’t always have to be how they’re speaking. It can also be what they’re doing or how they’re acting, which can be just as telling as other tags. (I use action tags sooooooo much. Action tags in the middle of dialogue is my jam.)

The example sentences with action tags: Nico crossed his arms, huffing deeply. “I know it’s real, I saw it!” “I know it’s real…” Nico averted his gaze, staring down at his shoes instead. “I saw it.”

Or, you can mix them both! An action tag plus how they’re speaking for maximum impact and description.

Here’s the example sentence with both! Nico rolled his eyes, hissing: “I know it’s real, I saw it!” “I know it’s real…” Nico uttered, poorly stifling a shudder. “I saw it.”

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4) DESCRIPTION

Describing the way your character looks, moves, speaks, etc etc before and after the line can further help your readers know how they feel about what they’re saying. This is especially important if the character is not the main character and doesn’t have internal dialogue. Body language can explain things voices can’t or won’t. You can explore putting these descriptions before the line, after the line, in the tag, or after the tag. Whatever you prefer!

Here’s the sentence with descriptive sentences with it. I did one before the line & tag and one in the middle! He was practically fuming, his eyebrows knitted so closely together they looked like a single strip of hair. His eyes were flicking between his friends like he was trying to determine if they were joking, blue irises blurred with a rage-fueled haze. Nico finally rolled his eyes, hissing: “I know it’s real, I saw it!” “I know it’s real…” Nico uttered, poorly stifling a shudder. His eyes never left the floor, and he looked smaller, younger as he spoke. His breaths weren’t exactly even, but they weren’t too quick, either. “I saw it.”

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Look at those two very different scenarios we got out of the same base line! This is the power you hold, folks, the power to un-bland your dialogue and make it into something intense and memorable for your readers! The power to make it portray exactly what you want it to portray! No more worrying how your readers took that line, because you set in stone how it was presented.

Remember, making a paragraph like that for every line might get tiring or repetitive to read. Sometimes tags alone are good enough in fast-paced or long conversations, and sometimes, if the dialogue makes it clear who is speaking, the line can suffice by itself!

If you have any writing tip requests, drop them in my inbox!