#i always get so drunk with my one friend/coworker hehehe

[depravedangelbaby]

ooooo babeeeey I am v v v v drunk tonight- giving you all big hugs n kisses n maybe some head <3

[yoonieper]

For the Birds— Part 2 | JJK

I want you to stay even though you don’t want me.

♡ Pairing: Jungkook x Reader 

♡ Genre: angst, smut, future fluff, a hint of enemies to lovers~ 

♡ Rated: L for Loathe

♡ Series Warnings: Lots of smut (not always healthy), cheating, discussions of depression, this series includes Jk in a pretty toxic environment, degradation (not the sexy kind), manipulation, and overall Jk being in an emotionally abusive situation! 

♡ Chapter Warnings: Y/n and Jk tension, mentions of substance abuse (alcohol), mentions of Jungkook getting reealllyyyy drunk, <— throws up 😬, Jimin is best boy and the bestest friend but my man is ready to throw hands… 

♡ Word Count: 11.6k

♡ Summary: As the son of the CEO at Golden Tech, a marriage was arranged in the name of business. Jungkook really tried to make the most of his situation and be the best husband he could be, but no matter how much he tried, his wife just doesn’t seem to want him. Then you… you came into his life and his eyes couldn’t help but wander.

♡ Now Playing: Honsool by Agust D— see masterlist for full playlist! 

♡ Betas: Thank you so much to @illyrian-book-lover and @teawithhoneyandlemon for reading this part for me! If you’re interested in betaing a future part, dm me! If you're interested in becoming a permanent beta for this series please first click here and refer to 'details about the job' section for more details and dm for any questions you might have! 

♡ Author’s Note: This chapter is the calm before the storm, but we ain’t slowing down at all for part 3 >:) ~ Y’all can thank Smoke Sprite for this hehehe (it just came out when I wrote this)

No reposting, modifying. Translating is not allowed unless given explicit permission. Thank you so much : D

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Seven months later…

Knowing what you know now, you felt bad that there was ever a phase in your life when you hated Jeon Jungkook. Hate was a strong word, you know that now, and you knew it back then too; but it was always the first word that would pop into your head whenever you’d think about the man. 

Ever since your first day at Golden Tech, he made your life working at the company an actual living hell. You loved your job, and you were dedicated to it a hundred percent. You had worked way too hard to get where you were to slack around. You were living your dream— you were still young, working a stable, well-paying job at a high-end tech company, you had great coworkers for the most part… There was nothing to complain about besides the person who supervised your department. 

That’s what made it so frustrating. 

And to make matters worse, it was probably for the dumbest of reasons. Sure, no one wants coffee spilled on them, you would have gotten a little mad if you were in that situation; but there was no need to make someone’s life miserable because of a simple mistake— for years.

It’s not like you purposefully ran into him. You both had just turned the corner at the same time and bonked into each other. It happens. Some of your coworkers said you should have gone to his office later and begged for his forgiveness, but you thought that was ridiculous because it had just been an accident. A simple, unintentional mischance that could have happened to anyone.

It’s also not like you didn’t try to apologize— you both ran into each other the very next day, and as soon as you saw him, you hurried to catch up to him to tell him how sorry you were; you even offered to pay to get his suit cleaned or replaced. Jeon Jungkook hardly paid you any attention as he said it was fine and walked away with his posse of executives following him. It was strange, but you hoped that it just meant that your first meeting was water under the bridge and things would be fine. If you knew what you were in store for, you probably would have quit right on the spot, but not before you gave him one good, firm slap on your way out.

No, your ambition clouded your vision each time Director Son would give you assignments straight from the boss himself, and it was always mountains above your coworkers. You wanted to believe he saw potential in you, that maybe this was just an initiation into the office and all the newbies were given more work straight from the Head Director himself to showcase their abilities. This was just a test, you kept telling yourself for far too long, and in the end he’s going to see just how capable you are, earning his respect like everyone else did at some point. There weren’t that many people who worked on this floor in comparison to the rest of the building. All the teams were on the smaller side, so you figured this was just a tight-knit department you needed to steadily break your way into.  

That’s how you kept yourself cheerful despite how it seemed like every night your workload would have you staying in the office until the wee hours of the morning trying to get everything done. 

Everything changed when you weren’t the newest employee in your department anymore. Jungkook was oh so welcoming to your hoobaes and would give them slightly less work before steadily building up to the overwhelming amount everyone was eventually given. It wasn’t great, but it was lightyears ahead of what you experienced during your first few months at the company.

You kept telling yourself that there had to be a reason. You never really spoke to him, there was hardly any opportunity to piss him off; surely there was more of a reason than the incident on your first day.

The next person who joined the department after you did, you slowly began to notice the difference from your initial few months, and at first you had tried to come up with this whole theory in your head that maybe he was flirting with the newest member of the team. She was pretty and a lot of the guys around the office talked about her. You figured your boss might be like them, just another man trying to get into her pants, and for some reason easing her workload was his way of flirting.

That theory quickly died when Taehyung told you he was married despite you both apparently being the same age. Then Hoseok started working at the company and was given the same special treatment as her. Jungkook was seemingly nice and welcoming to everyone else but you.

That’s where your… annoyance, turned into hatred, because at the end of the day, you knew this was all simply because you had ACCIDENTALLY SPILLED COFFEE ALL OVER HIS STUPID, EXPENSIVE ASS SUIT (you checked when you got home how much it would cost you to replace it. If he would have taken you up on your offer, it would have had you living on ramen alone for months) AND HE JUST WANTED TO MAKE YOU MISERABLE BECAUSE OF IT. 

And maybe, just MAYBE, if that was the only suit he owned, you would have understood his pettiness a little better. You have this one nice dress you splurged on when you found out you’d gotten an interview for Golden Tech, and if someone had messed it up, it would have taken a lot more than an “I’m sorry” for you to fully get over it. But every day your coworkers would talk about how expensive his suits were, all belonging to brand names guys around the office knew about and would rave over. They would stand around sighing about how handsome he looked and how they felt like they needed to pay him just for gazing upon his presence.

It was a little dramatic, and even though Jungkook was never around to hear it, you always thought it was just another way to kiss his ass a little harder, vaguely hoping for the chance he would hear and reward them for their willingness to bend over backwards for him. 

But that’s besides the point. One thing was clear from their words: Jungkook had money, and a lot of it, there was absolutely no valid reason for him to be that upset at you.

So you despised him. 

You hated Jungkook longer than anyone at the office did. At first, they just seemed confused whenever you would rant your troubles to them— saying things like, “he normally wasn’t like this.” But as months turned to years, Jungkook’s pettiness began spreading to all the employees who worked under him. You couldn’t say he was the best boss in the world when you first started working at the company, but as the days passed, he seemed to get that much more rigid, cold, and reclusive.

It probably hadn’t even been a full year after you started working at Golden Tech, when all the employees joined you in complaining about how annoying he was to work for.

You used to see him all the time walking around the office doing this or that, but later on, you only saw him arrive but never leave. There were many instances in which almost everyone on the floor was given so much work, that you’d all have to stay past your normal hours; way too many times than anything reasonable. All he ever did was work, work, and work, making sure everyone was going above and beyond their job description. It was excessive, so much so that some people in your department ended up leaving because their job was interfering with their personal lives too much.

To make matters worse, everyone was always on edge. There were rumors that some of the people who were fired over the years were let go because they weren’t able to keep up with his outrageous demands. Some of your coworkers said that they left his office in tears because he basically belittled them to the ground, calling them worthless, and many other unspeakable things. It was awful. You never knew if this was actually true or not, no one really did, but it kept everyone on edge to the point that the mysterious Jeon Jungkook was feared amongst most. But it didn’t really matter to you. 

You used to think you had a good understanding of him. All your coworkers who were brought into the department before you would always say he was this bright-eyed, sweet, eager to please kid who everyone had high hopes for. Jungkook had never shown any of this during the time since you’d been working here, so you honestly doubted their assurances. 

According to you, ‘Jungkook’ and ‘sweet’ couldn’t even exist in the same sentence.

Jeon Jungkook was just a spoiled, rich kid who had no real interest in Golden Tech. He seemed to have no idea how to be a boss, was a sadistic asshole who got off on making people miserable, and was just there, waiting until the CEO position was handed off to him just because of who his daddy was— which you were sure would result in the crash and burn of the whole company.

A few months ago, he literally just didn’t show up to work for a week without any sort of notice. This left your department scrambling because important deadlines were coming up. When Friday rolled around the next week and he still wasn’t back, people kept asking where he was because certain things couldn’t get done without him at the office. He was basically MIA, no one was able to contact him. 

Jimin had emailed everyone later that day because the complaints grew too loud. Jungkook apparently had been diagnosed with pneumonia earlier that day and wouldn’t be in for a while. An excuse, for sure, but that didn’t explain where he’d been for the last week. Maybe he was off vacationing in one of the many homes his family owned around the world, while your team was left scrambling during his absence.

But it seemed as though you were the only one who harbored any real hatred for him. 

Many girls around the office would still fawn over his handsome face, making you roll your eyes every time, because all they needed was one glance their way and they were squealing like schoolgirls. Was that really all it took for everyone to forget how awful he was? You didn’t get it, not even one bit.

Even your friend was somehow pulled into the allure. When you’d pass by him in meetings, despite Solmi oftentimes being the listening ear to your rants about how impertinent you thought Jeon Jungkook was, she would still sometimes gaze at him sympathetically; it was something everyone around the office occasionally did.

“Something’s just off.”

“He wasn’t like this before, he was such a sweet kid.”

“Maybe it’s just stress?”

They would always have an explanation ready. You never understood why, but you weren’t working there yet when he was still “nice,�� and they also weren’t on the receiving end of his pettiness directly.

Someone might laugh at the fact that you were still feeling the effects of your little incident nearly two years after it happened. But no matter how hard you worked, how many times you tried to apologize, nothing you did was ever enough to make him forgive you. So you opted to hate him, and you used that hate to fuel your ambition even further. 

In some strange way, Jungkook’s pettiness ended up helping you in the long run. All that hard work you put in made the other executives notice you. Due to your previous experience at another big tech provider, you were quickly promoted to be the manager of one of the finance teams when the position became available.

That just helped open even more doors for you. It was only a few weeks after celebrating your second year at the company (October 6th, 2023, a little over 24 months after you were hired— not that you were bragging or anything), when Director Son informed you about the promotion. The associate director position became available due to her retiring; apparently, even while being relatively new in comparison to the other managers and on the younger side, they still believed you would be the best one to take over the position.

Of course you took it. You were only twenty-six and now the Associate Director of the financial team for the Seoul division at a trillion won tech company that was led by the CEO’s son. Again, not like you were bragging, but your resume was insane.

As nice as the high was, this… this is when everything changed.

See, some might call you strange that you hated someone so deeply when you barely even knew them. You honestly had no clue about him, you hardly ever saw the man besides during the very occasional meetings; but most of the time, he only met up with Director Son and the old associate director to get updates. You could probably use your fingers to count how many times you both have spoken to each other. Any time you’d normally communicate would only be over email, and it didn’t help how much he was in his office. The only things you really knew about Jungkook were that you both were the same age, that he was the CEO’s son, and supposedly, that he was married.

That's what most people knew about him, and of course there were probably tabloids out there if you ever wanted to learn more, but you never found the need to know anything else other than the basics.

That’s why when Jungkook called you into his office after your promotion, you were in for a rude awakening on the fact that you never really know what goes on behind closed doors.

The meeting itself wasn’t that eventful. Jungkook just wanted to elaborate more on your new role as an associate director and inform you about your new duties on the projects your team was currently working on. However, you ended up feeling differently than expected. 

You’d spent the whole morning preparing for your first meeting with him. You had coached yourself the day before on how to approach it— you weren’t planning to be rude, but maybe a bit passive-aggressive; just enough to set a boundary to be taken seriously and establish yourself as a professional, not just some pushover. 

You’d picked out your best ‘bad bitch’ outfit the night before— not for him— but to give yourself the extra confidence you needed to stand up to the person who’s been the bane of your existence for the past two years. You wore a tight, black dress with gold buttons detailing all the way down the front. It was probably the nicest thing in your closet besides the dress you bought for your interview. You paired it off with matching gold accessories and black stilettos with a cute gold heel. You couldn’t tell someone how long you spent working on your hair and makeup this morning trying to get that last level of perfection. 

It was all worth it though. When you arrived at the office that day, you held your head high as you made your way to your desk. A smile was plastered on your face as your heels clicked through the halls. Your coworkers were staring and whispering while you walked past them, the attention making your heart swell, because at the end of the day, you knew they were only saying good things.

It gave you a nice confidence boost, but as the time ticked away, it was obvious to your friends you weren’t as composed as you wanted them to believe. As the time of the meeting approached, Taehyung and Solmi tried their best to calm you down as you rehearsed what you thought would happen later.

“Grrr, I’m Jeon Jungkook, and I hereby bestow you this mountain load of paperwork.” Solmi said dramatically, as she shook a piece of paper in front of your face before setting it down gracefully on your desk.

You cleared your throat. “I’ll take care of these, Director Jeon. And as the new associate director, I hope we can establish a more compassionate relationship.” When you finished, you eagerly looked up at your two friends.

“Yeah, she’s going to get eaten alive.” Taehyung sighed, concern filled his eyes the longer he stared at you. Solmi shared the same worried look.

“Calm down guys, I think I got this.” You smiled as you turned to your computer and saw the time. There was only an hour left.

“Y/n, we’ll wait for you as close as we can. Scream if he tries to eat you.” Solmi said as she rested her hand on your shoulder.

You looked over at Taehyung, who seemed to grow more worried by the second.

“I’ll be fine. If anything, he should be more scared that I’ll eat him first.” You laughed a little too hard, but seeing the look on Solmi’s face made you realize that might not have been the best way to phrase it.

No matter the amount of smiles or jokes you shared with your friends, nothing could stop the anxiety from creeping in, it just made you even more terrified of what might happen later. You were worried if you’d even walk out of it still having a job (let’s just say you had a lot you wanted to say to him, but one wrong move would be enough for you to derail from your well-rehearsed script and finally spill that can of worms full of deep seeded anger).

When the time finally arrived, Secretary Yu told you Director Jeon was in a meeting and that you could have a seat in his office for the time being. You bowed at her words, but on your way in you couldn’t help but roll your eyes because of course he was late. You were so busy cursing him out in your head, it didn’t even register that you were in his office for the first time until the door closed behind you. 

You were shocked to find you weren’t greeted with a demon’s lair like what you had expected. His office was relatively modern, with lots of black furniture— it was sleek and expensive like everything he owned. There were a couple of plants sitting around that added a nice splice of greenery. His office also had a big window with a nice view to the right that overlooked the city. However, what you were most surprised to find were all the family photos sprinkled around the place.

There were some that sat on his desk but your eyes were immediately drawn to the three big pictures on the wall beside you as you came in. 

The one that sat right in the middle you were sure was a family photo of the Jeon family. You recognized the CEO sitting on a chair that almost looked like a throne. There was also a small, slightly older, beautiful woman who was dazzlingly dressed sitting on a stool next to him, holding his hand, and two boys stood behind them. One you instantly recognized as Jungkook, only a little younger— maybe college-aged, and standing right behind him was a man who looked like he could have been his twin. He stood maybe a few centimeters taller and shared the same face, except he had a few more of his mom’s features, his sharp eyes for example. You had to assume it was the brother you heard your coworkers talk about from time to time. On the other hand, Jungkook was nearly the spitting image of the CEO, only decades younger.  

What you paid the most attention to was their smiles. Everyone in the picture looked so happy, all big smiles that seemed to resemble the CEO’s. It felt almost strange seeing how happy Jungkook looked in the picture. You honestly thought he was incapable of smiling. 

It was like a whole different guy was in the picture.

When you looked at the photo that sat on the right, closest to where you stood, you were greeted by a very cinematic shot of Jungkook and who you could only assume was his wife on their wedding day. He had lifted her by her waist and they were lovingly staring into each other’s eyes, again with big smiles plastered on their faces. Jungkook didn’t look too much older than he did in the first picture, and his wife also couldn’t have been much younger than him. It made you wonder how long they had been together. As far as you knew, he was married even before you started working for Golden Tech. He couldn’t have been more than twenty-four, but just based on the picture, he definitely looked younger than that.

They must have really loved each other… You couldn’t imagine being married now, let alone years ago.

But everyone had been right, she really was pretty. How was he married? You couldn’t help but wonder how his wife was able to put up with his pretentious ass. You could barely deal with him and you hardly knew the man. 

You felt for her in that moment.

Furthest from you was a picture you could barely see, but it looked like another picture from their wedding day. Jungkook and his wife in her gorgeous dress were sitting down on a fancy ottoman and a bunch of other people stood around them. Some you could recognize from the Jeon family portrait, so you just assumed all the others must be his wife’s family.

Again, seeing how happy he was in the picture was a little uncanny. There was no way that was the same man who made your life at work so miserable.

Looking at the photos only became more unsettling when the door was bursting open and you were suddenly faced with the actual, present-day Jeon Jungkook. Your eyes immediately snapped onto his, your mind went blank as you tried to process the fact that he was standing there right in front of you. He was stuck in place, he seemed just as surprised to see you in the way his startled expression turned into shock and his wide eyes peered over you. You barely registered the fact that Jimin was standing behind him, too busy trying to calm yourself from a near heart attack. 

It was suddenly so obvious why Jungkook didn’t seem like the same person in the pictures you had just seen. He looked different. It wasn’t only the fact that he looked a little older, but his eyes…

He looked so tired, like he hadn’t slept well in months. The dark circles around his eyes deprived him of that same cheery persona he put on for the camera. And maybe this was just you reading into it too much, but you couldn’t help but think he also just seemed… dismal? It was strange, but if you weren’t trying to be on your best behavior, you would have advised him to take a nap before starting your meeting.

If that wasn’t enough, he was also visibly thinner. Like you could still see a bit of definition as he moved underneath his expensive suit jacket, but his slimmer frame didn’t seem to help and only made him look even more tired.

Your coworkers might have been right; maybe it really was the stress. How hadn’t you ever noticed this before? Had he always looked like this but you just never realized?

“Uh, sorry we’re late. We were stuck in a meeting that went on longer than expected.” Jimin suddenly said, finally breaking the silence and making you snap out of your daze. 

It was only then that you realized you had practically been staring down Jungkook. To be fair, you had never seen him this up close before, at least not close enough to actually look at him. 

You quickly bowed.

“I’m sorry! Secretary Yu told me to wait. I—” You panicked, realizing how strange this might look that you were just standing here right in front of the door.

Your eyes immediately locked onto Jungkook’s waiting for the annoyance to hit his features, any sign to point to the fact that you gave him another reason to hate you, but instead he just seemed dazed. Your eyes tried to follow his gaze wondering what he was staring at, and you were left a little stunned to see him looking over you.

Did he forget you were coming today? What was going on? You glanced down, worried something may have gotten on your dress earlier during lunch and he was about to criticize you for your unprofessionalism, but you were just left confused when you didn’t notice anything, and the silence continued for far too long.

“Ummm…” Jimin looked over at Jungkook when he still hadn’t said anything yet.

You shrugged, just as perplexed as he was.   

When Jungkook still didn’t say anything, Jimin, like the angel he was, eventually took it upon himself to reassure you it was fine and that you had just startled them.

You bowed and apologized once again, your cheeks burned under the weight of their gaze, but Jimin just smiled and told you yet again it was fine. His comforting words and smile eased your beating heart a little more as he ushered you over to Jungkook’s desk. Not wanting to make things any more awkward than they already were, you quickly made your way over to one of the cushiony chairs that sat across from the desk. The whole time you felt their eyes nearly burn a hole in your skull, your skin warmed with each step you took, and you couldn’t help but wonder if you messed this up already. 

You figured Jimin must have finally managed to get Jungkook to snap out of whatever held his attention so deeply, he eventually came back into view and sat in his own fancy office chair in front of you, and Jimin chose to stand right beside him. 

Jungkook awkwardly coughed once everyone got settled trying to fill the silence in the room, maybe your eyes were playing tricks on you, but you swear you saw his cheeks start dusting pink as he looked at you.

This could not be the same demon you’ve worked with for two years. Jungkook could hardly meet your eyes, seemingly trying to look everywhere else but you. He looked visibly flustered and… shy? Who was this man, and what did he do with the Jungkook you thought you knew?

“I’m so sorry, I—… um, sorry we were late. It’s nice to see you Y/n.” He commented softly with a smile. No, there was no way this was the same guy.

After Jimin took a moment to congratulate you on your promotion (he told you to visit his office later for a surprise), the meeting carried on rather uneventfully in regard to your conversation. Jungkook didn’t eat you, nor did you ever need to whip out any of your passive-aggressive responses that you’d practiced. To be honest, you were only halfway paying attention to everything that was being discussed. 

Your brain was far more interested in just observing him, picking apart all the little details you never had the chance to notice in the past: 

He had a mole that sat just underneath his lower lip, and anytime he’d be thinking about what to say next for longer than normal, he’d bite into the flesh and then you could see the little dot right there on full display. He also had a scar on his cheek— you barely noticed it, but when the light hit his face at just the right angle, you could see the indention. Or how come you never realized that he had a slight lisp when he talked? It was slight, only making an appearance if he started rambling for a little too long; you wondered how you’d never noticed it before.

It was quite obvious early on into the meeting that Jungkook was not this scary, evil monster who hid away in his spooky cave. Jungkook would speak, there were moments when Jimin would jump in to help, they easily bounced off of each other, and in between the business talk, they would sometimes joke around with one another. You hated to admit it, but you found them a little cute as you watched them interact.

However, you still noticed that when Jungkook laughed, his smile never looked like the one in any of the pictures that sat behind you. His eyes wouldn’t crinkle, his top lip wouldn’t almost disappear, and that dimple that was on his left cheek never came into view— yes, he had dimples— multiple sets apparently that you had also never noticed.

If you didn’t know any better, you might have thought he was faking it, but the one other thing you knew about Jungkook was that he and Jimin had been friends for a long time. Jimin had mentioned to you briefly during the few occasions you’ve talked that he’s known Jungkook since the younger was in elementary school; and it was clear during the meeting that they were close.

The more you looked at him, the more you grew concerned. He definitely seemed… off. It was the same feeling that you’d gotten all those years ago about your friend in high school. His eyes, you just couldn’t get over the look in his eyes. They held the same emptiness that your friend Mi-Sun’s did all those years ago. His hair had grown to almost completely shield his gaze, but you still noticed. 

In the past, his hair would normally be shorter and slicked back with a fresh undercut always on display. It was a few months ago when he seemingly started to grow it out. When he walked in, it was obvious he had been running his hands through it in the way the dark strands were pushed back. Yet as the meeting continued, more and more strands would fall into his face, and he would go back to hiding his sad gaze behind his hair. It almost reminded you of the same look he had that day you spilled coffee all over his suit— even then he seemed tired and sad, but now it was so much more blatant.

It was almost immediately that your harbored hatred for Jeon Jungkook turned into genuine concern. You couldn’t believe this was the same guy who’d have everyone on the floor staying overtime almost every single day.

That didn’t necessarily excuse how petty he acted over the years, you didn’t forget, but it did make you feel bad about how you let your emotions get the best of you. 

The fact that Jungkook was the same age as you and managed everyone that worked on your floor— being associate director of your division’s financial team already seemed daunting— but you couldn’t even fathom the stress that came with his position. 

“Y/n? Did you get all that?” Jimin asked, breaking you out of your daze.

“Yes-yes! I’m sorry.” You stammered, trying your best to recollect yourself. 

“Just wanted to make sure you got everything. We covered a lot.” He laughed, but you were too focused on Jungkook shying away from your gaze— his face was definitely a little redder than before. You tried your best to ignore the way your heart ached at the sight. 

You had to get out of here.

“Thank you so much. I’ll be sure to email you if I have any questions.” You bowed your head slightly at them. 

If things couldn’t get any weirder, when you looked back up at him, you noticed Jungkook was staring at you— again with those same sad eyes. It was on the tip of your tongue to invite him out for dinner, or to tell him that maybe it would be best to take the day off or something— anything to possibly help get back the cheeriness he had in the pictures behind you. But you knew you would be overstepping a boundary, and since you were so new to your position, you felt it was best to not take a chance; so, after a few more awkward goodbyes, you left his office.

“I have to get this done, he has to see that I’m—“ The door shut behind you before you could hear the rest.

Instantly you looked around for your friends, and like they promised, you found them awkwardly standing not too far away from Secretary Yu’s desk trying not to make it obvious they were waiting for you. As soon as they saw you, you knew they wanted to ask how it went, but instead you grabbed Tae by the hand and quickly walked down the hall, ignoring Solmi’s confused remarks as you sped past her.

“Taehyung.” You said alarmingly as you both walked. 

“What happened? Did he start yelling at you or something?” Taehyung questioned very seriously, looking back the way you both had just come from. Apparently, you didn’t respond fast enough because he ended up stopping you both in your tracks. You looked over at him and could see the way his expression had shifted, his face was etched with concern now, and the underlying anger was not hard to pick up on. 

“Y/n, what happened?” He asked far more sternly, grabbing you by the shoulder so you’d look at him. You couldn’t help but glanced down, noticing the way his other hand tightened into a fist.

“What? No— Just… What do you know about Director Jeon?” You quickly followed up with.

You could see the gears turning in his head.

“Huh?” 

“You’ve been here longer than me. What do you know about him?” You asked again, your gaze turned to worry as you looked back toward where Jungkook’s office was.

Taehyung was noticeably confused. “Why, what happened?” 

You sighed. “Nothing, I mean, we just talked but… I don’t know, he just seemed so… sad. It was weird.” 

“Sad?”

“You should have seen him Tae… it was like… I don’t know, he looked so tired.” You were honestly a bit worried. One minute you hated his entire existence, the next you found yourself seriously concerned for his well-being. 

It would be easier to hate him if he didn’t look like a kicked puppy.

The tension quickly faded from Taehyung’s features, he let his hand rest back down at his side and he breathed a sigh of relief. 

“I was wondering if you knew anything.” You questioned again when he hadn’t said anything, but Taehyung eventually shook his head. 

“I don’t have much to say, he’s always been a pretty quiet guy. I know nothing outside of what he does at the company, and that he’s married to that supermodel. Jimin would probably know, they hang out all the time.” 

You nodded while his words processed in your head. Taehyung was probably right, Jimin was the best person to talk to. You wanted to think there was a chance at the explanation being simple, like maybe he was having a rough day or something, but that didn’t stop you from being worried.

You had a feeling it wasn’t that straightforward.

“Yah, you had me scared for a second.” Taehyung breathed out a shaky laugh. 

“Why? You didn’t think I could handle myself in there?” You chuckled lightly, recalling how serious he got. 

“No, you’re perfectly capable. It was me I was worried about. I thought I was going to have to put my job and freedom on the line.” The way he said it carried that same comical tone, but there was something very serious as well in its implications. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what he meant by that. 

You looked at him wide-eyed for a second, a bit at a loss knowing he’d be willing to go that far for you. Even in the worst-case scenario, you wouldn’t consider losing your job, and certainly not going to jail, over something like that. 

Taehyung returned your gaze and smiled at you, warm and reassuring as always, before you both finally started to hear the hurried clicking of Solmi’s heels making it around the corner. 

“Yah! Why did you guys just leave me?!” 

•────•──────────•────•

Jimin's role at the office made his life more complicated than it needed to be. Besides being Jungkook’s friend, his job also had him working a lot more closely with the younger in comparison to the other executives. He was the associate director to Jungkook’s position, and pretty much handled a lot of the grunt work. He would always step up to his friend’s role whenever Jungkook wasn’t in the building, and he was already in line to take over the next time Jungkook was promoted. Jimin was in great standing in contrast to others around his age, and he would always be eternally grateful to Jungkook and his family for giving him this opportunity. However, balancing the crazy workload Jungkook always asked of him— everyone in the department really, plus just trying his best to be there for his friend, was a task he sometimes questioned if he could manage.

Because of the way he bounced between being by Jungkook’s side and working with managers in the office, he was oftentimes caught in the middle of the drama and heard all the gossip and rumors that would go around. People in the department would complain, and there was some part of him that sympathized with their woes because his friend would really go off the deep end at times with his demands, but there was the other side who was still Jungkook’s friend. Jimin had to deal with Jungkook deteriorating right before his eyes, while simultaneously being subjected to hearing his colleagues badmouthing his friend, who to him, was clearly suffering. Jimin couldn’t even say anything. He was watching his best friend fall apart, and having people say the worst things about him, all without them knowing what he was going through, made it difficult to stand idly by and listen. 

It wasn’t even like he could tell them because even he didn’t truly know what was going on. 

Jimin had cherished the day Jungkook began opening up to him after he started to notice something was wrong. Just as Jungkook seemed to get more comfortable in sharing the issues he was dealing with in his marriage, at the beginning of the year was when those walls came back up thicker, higher, and practically impenetrable. 

Jimin had hoped that it meant things were getting better between him and Yuri, but it was painfully obvious Jungkook was just getting worse and worse as the days went on. You weren’t the only one noticing how much he changed. Jimin was by his side the entire time as he saw firsthand how life continued to drain out of him as the days went by. 

Jimin had seriously tried his best to be there for him, but no matter what, Jungkook continued pushing him away. He would brush off any of his concerns and drown himself— and everyone else around him—  with work.

It was hard to watch.

Jimin could never forget what happened a few weeks ago. He came to work early on Jungkook’s birthday to drop off a gift with the hope to surprise him later when he’d come in, but instead was nearly scared shitless once he opened the door and turned on the lights to find Jungkook passed out at his desk. There was a bottle of vodka and enough empty cans of beer covering the surface to almost shield him from view and encase him in completely.

Jimin had known Jungkook was going to stay overtime the day before, he’d even seen the beer he brought in, but he brushed it off thinking he was simply restocking the mini fridge in his office. It wasn’t uncommon for the two of them to share a drink together after hours, a good beer was always the perfect remedy to wash away their stress. However, it was obvious from the overturned box that he’d drunk the entire pack all by himself, plus the vodka he had no idea Jungkook even had in here. 

That was not it. As Jimin looked around his office, he found another box had been opened, and he wondered if it had fallen off his desk because of the way the cans were sprawled across the floor (definitely less than the twelve that came in the pack). As Jimin steadily got closer, he noticed one of the cans was tipped over beside him, the sticky liquid pooling on his desk, like he’d passed out with the drink still in his hand.

It was a concerning sight to say the least, and nearly gave him a heart attack as he hurriedly rushed over to make sure his friend was ok (alive). His mind raced with the worst thoughts possible as he tried to shake him awake.

Jimin had planned the whole day out to give his friend the best 26th birthday in the history of birthdays. What was supposed to be the start of a celebration turned into a nightmare when Jungkook didn’t immediately wake up. It was honestly a miracle he did. It took some time; it was like the universe itself had slowed down as he waited for something, anything. Tears had welled up in his eyes, Jimin had been so close to calling 119, when in a fit of desperation he slapped Jungkook’s back a little too hard. That was apparently enough to finally get him to stir awake.

“Owwwwww…” Jungkook moaned, his eyebrows furrowed as he tried to reach back and rub the spot where it ached.

Jimin had a lot to say, most of which he figured went in one ear and out the other since Jungkook was clearly still drunk. He hated nagging, especially when his friend was out of it like that, but he really had scared him. Jimin pulled him into a hug as he went on and on about how stupid he was.

“Why you soooooo loud?” Jungkook whined, pulling out of Jimin’s arms and laying back down on his desk.

“Because— Jungkook, have you not been listening? Do you know how much you drank?!” Jimin nearly yelled pointing to all the cans and the vodka bottle that practically covered the desk.

“Shhhhh! I ne— have wake up for work later… I’m trying to sleep…” Jimin found it hard to understand him because of the way his words slurred together, like somehow he could understand that.

“Didn’t efen dink much.” Jungkook mumbled, as if it was any other Friday, and Jimin was being overdramatic.

As much as he could have kept the battle going, Jimin made the executive decision that there was no way in hell Jungkook would be able to work today, let alone ride along for his birthday surprise. He was better off trying to sleep this off.

Somehow Jimin was able to get him downstairs, but by the time Jimin was sitting him down in the passenger seat of his car, his arms ached, and his whole body screamed in fatigue. He was stuck carrying Jungkook’s entire weight all the way from his office to the elevators, where he needed to wait for the elevator to go up twenty stories, before going back down those same twenty stories, and then truck through the entire parking garage because his dumbass thought it was best to park in his usual spot, all the way at the far end.

Jimin wanted to be annoyed, he wanted this to just be a one-time thing that they both could laugh about in the future, but there was definitely something wrong. Something was wrong all the time, but there were too many signs for this situation to be passed off as just a “rough night.”

This wasn’t his first time carrying Jungkook. Jimin liked to occasionally pick him up to emphasize “just because you’re taller, doesn’t mean I can’t still swing you around,” mainly to show off his efforts in the gym— but Jimin could tell over the months, years even, that his friend had grown lighter. With the way he needed to carry him, his arm wrapped around his waist, he could really tell just how much thinner he’d gotten. 

And there still was the question of what made him drink so much…

Jimin’s head was swirling with worry as he got in his car, wondering what he should do from here. He’d considered taking Jungkook to the hospital, he had no idea how much he really drank, but the fact he was able to make it downstairs he figured meant he was ok enough to sleep this off, hopefully. 

He sighed and turned over to Jungkook who was already passed out beside him. Jimin reached over to open his suit jacket and fished out the phone in the pocket he’d placed it in. Somehow the facial recognition still worked with Jungkook’s passed-out face, and Jimin was able to pull up his contact list.

Yuri 💞

Jimin rolled his eyes seeing the hearts next to her name knowing how fake that emoji was.

“It’s like we’re a real couple now…” Jungkook had nervously chuckled that day he changed Yuri’s contact in his phone— merely hours before his engagement party.

How Jungkook hadn’t ended up changing it was beyond him. 

Yuri 🖕🏻was more appropriate in his opinion.

Jimin took a deep breath before he hit the call button. Now, Jimin loved using the word hate when it came to Yuri. While he wasn’t aware of all the details of their relationship, Jimin just knew deep down she was the reason for Jungkook’s rapid decline— maybe it’d been her fault he drank so much. 

It took a couple of rings, but Jimin was thoroughly surprised she actually picked up.  

“What—“

“Yuri, it's Jimin.” He was quick to interrupt her.

There was silence over the line for a while, like she was trying to remember who that was.

“Jungkook’s friend… coworker—“

“I know that— what— why do you have his phone?” For a split second, he believed she sounded a little concerned.

“I thought you would know— how did you not notice he didn’t come home last night?” Jimin was seething the more he thought about the possibility that this was somehow connected to Yuri, but he tried his best to keep himself calm for Jungkook’s sake.

“He told me he was working late.” She put it so plainly. 

“And you just let him? You do realize today’s his birthday, right?” Jimin just rolled his eyes as the silence continued on the other line. At the moment, the pieces seemed to click in his head. Was it the fact Yuri clearly forgot his birthday the reason Jungkook practically drowned himself in alcohol?

Maybe… maybe it wasn’t, but maybe it was, and that possibility was enough for him. Jimin had to take a couple of deep breaths to stop himself from screaming at her, but once again, he calmed himself down. Today was not the day for this.

“Anyway, Jungkook got really— really drunk last night, and I’m worried about leaving him alone. If you’re not already there, could you meet me at your apartment and watch over him? I would do it myself but I have work in an hour so—“

“Can’t you just put him on the bed or something? I don’t think he needs a babysitter—“

“Yuri, I don’t think you understand, he’s really—“ But before he could finish, Jimin suddenly turned to see Jungkook hurriedly pushing open the door. He couldn’t even question him before it became obvious that the nausea, which had made the whole journey downstairs that much harder, had finally taken its toll.

Jimin set the phone down and reached over to rub his back lightly. He tried his best to ignore the unpleasant sounds and the dry heaving that went on for a while; his heart ached seeing his friend’s pitiful condition. Things only got worse when it finally seemed to be the end of it, the sounds of soft whimpers started to fill the growing silence. 

“Hyung… I’m so sorry.” Jimin hardly caught it, Jungkook was so quiet and his voice was a little hoarse.

“Jungkook—“

Jungkook sat up and hesitantly faced him. His eyes were red and his cheeks were stained with tears that flowed harder the longer he looked at him.

“Hyung, I’m so sorry.” Jungkook just sobbed. 

“It’s fine, please don’t—“

“This is so fucking embarrassing, I’m so sorry, this is so pathetic, I—I—“ 

“Jungkook, you're not pathetic,” Jimin interjected, trying his best to keep strong.

“Fucking threw up in the parking lot— can’t get much worse.” Jungkook choked out.

“It could be, don’t say that because this could get so much worse.” Jimin had a few ideas, mainly in the fact that he could have been stuck riding in an ambulance worried for his friend’s life. “By the way, are you ok? I was going to take you home, but we can stop by the hospital to make sure you’re ok if you need it.”

Jungkook lazily shook his head. “Just take me back to my office, I have to work—“

It was then that Jimin started the car. “Don’t even think about it, I’m taking you home.” Jimin buckled the both of them in and started making his way out of the garage.

“Can— hyung, can you go slower?” Jungkook mumbled, leaning back in his seat.

“Do you still feel sick?” Jimin grimaced as he briefly worried about his car’s freshly cleaned interior.

“Yeah,” just the mention of the word seemed to make him nauseous all over again. “My head hurts too—“ They finally made it out of the garage, the morning sun quickly filled the car. Like a vampire in disguise, Jungkook groaned and tried to duck away from the rays floating in.

“I’ll be gentle— luckily it’s early enough so there isn’t too much traffic, we should make it to your place soon.”

There was silence for a little while. In the moment, Jimin remembered the fact he’d never hung up the phone with Yuri, but one quick glance down, and he saw she’d left. All he could do was hope she’d be there.

“Hyung, I feel like so much shit.” Jungkook slurred. He’d closed his eyes, hoping it might help ease the nausea or how much his head pounded with every bump or slight turn in the road, but it wasn’t helping at all.

“Mmm I bet, get ready for the worst hangover of your life.” Jimin tried to joke, but all he got was a choked sob in return.

“It’s what I fucking deserve.” Jungkook blubbered as he looked out the window, tears quickly filled his eyes before they started falling uncontrollably. “Can’t make her happy, just want to make her happy! Hyung she’s so miserable, and it’s all my fault!” The breakdown had come out of nowhere, but it had Jungkook in its grasp and had no plans of letting him go.

Jimin had no idea what to do. They’ve had so many talks about it at this point, but Jungkook never went into enough detail for him to ever be able to really help him. Even while drunk, Jungkook seemed to keep the details about what was going through his head locked away, never to see the light of day.

“Jungkook…” Jimin reached over and rested a hand on his thigh.

“Are you ok?” The question lingered in the air in between Jungkook’s sobs. The more Jimin’s question seemed to dawn on him, the more distraught he became.

“And I mean this seriously, like clearly you’re not fine, but are you… fine?” Jimin had hoped he’d answer. A simple ‘no’ would have been a step in the right direction, but he said nothing, letting the tears stream down his face suffice for an actual answer.

“Because if something is wrong, you know you can talk to me, right? Anything, it could be anything that’s on your mind.” Jimin looked over at his friend as they approached a red light, taking a moment to realize just how pitiful he looked. His suit jacket had been thrown in the backseat, his tie was barely hanging on, his face was red and covered with tears, and Jimin had to stop every two seconds to help try and ease the nausea.

“I can’t lie, I’m really worried about you. If something is bothering you, please know you can tell me anything.” Jimin was trying not to get emotional, but he’d never seen Jungkook like this in all the years he’d known him. Ever since she came into his life, everything had gone to shit. He knew all of this was her fault and Jungkook’s decline was too painful to watch. 

Jimin was worried, so fucking worried actually, that he feared every time he’d leave his friend’s side. While all of this could just be ruled as some random drunken breakdown, Jimin knew it was a small window into what was going on inside his friend’s tormented mind.

“Please say you’d tell me Jungkook…” Jimin gently shook his leg, desperately wanting the reassurance that if things were as bad as he feared, that he’d say something. 

When Jungkook’s sobs stopped, Jimin hoped he’d give him an answer, but instead, he watched as Jungkook leaned up, and grabbed onto the dashboard while attempting deep, steady breaths.

“Hyung…” His voice was quiet yet pained. 

“Yes?” All Jimin wanted to know was that he’d say something. 

“Pull—“ A couple more deep breaths “Please pull over…”

It took a second for the words to register. “Wha— why—“

“N-Now!” Jungkook tried to emphasize as he quickly had to put his hand over his mouth.

Luckily for the both of them, there was an opening on the street up ahead. Before Jimin could question it any further, Jungkook was already stumbling out of the car and toward the trash can that was on the street corner.

Jimin never got that reassurance he needed, not that day, or any other day afterward. He wondered if Jungkook had heard him at all.

When Jungkook got back, he was crying all over again about how pathetic he was, the cycle starting anew. But it only took about two minutes before Jungkook passed out once again, and he was asleep until Jimin was shaking him awake when they’d finally made it to his apartment. 

The journey upstairs was just as difficult as going downstairs at Golden Tech. Jungkook had sobered up a little, but Jimin, once again, was stuck carrying him to the elevator. His exhaustion, the nausea, his head, everything really, made it hard for Jungkook to stand. Slowly but surely, they finally made it up to his door.

Jimin had hoped when they arrived that Yuri would be there. He knew, despite his own feelings, how happy it would have made Jungkook at that moment, and it was the least she could do after everything. He wanted to think maybe, just maybe, she’d show up, especially after Jimin had to remind her that it was her husband’s birthday. He hated the fact that he had let a glimmer of hope spark. Deep down he wished that his conversation with her earlier was all just an act to not spoil Jungkook of a surprise waiting for him back at their apartment. Even if that wasn’t the case, he still hoped that she would at least be there. But after Jimin punched in the code and opened the door, the apartment was just as empty as it normally was.

He couldn’t even say that he wasn’t surprised.

As soon as the door closed behind them, Jungkook had somehow found the strength to wiggle out of Jimin’s grasp. Free from his hold, Jimin watched as Jungkook started clumsily wrangling out of his suit jacket Jimin had put back on him earlier. He couldn’t help but chuckle at the sight and went over to grab Jungkook’s phone out of the jacket pocket.

Yuri had texted since they came up.

‘Sorry, won’t be back ‘till late. Busy.’ It was short, blunt, and to the point.

Yuri wasn’t coming.

Jimin sighed. He didn’t know why he was expecting anything different; she couldn’t even be by his side when he had pneumonia. Maybe it was for the best, he didn’t trust Yuri alone with his friend anyway.

“Hyuuuunnggggg…” Jungkook whined. Jimin finally looked up and noticed he’d stripped all the way down to his boxers.

“Is Yuri coming?” He asked as he flopped onto the couch.

“You know, the bed would be better…” Jimin chuckled lightly before walking over to him. He grabbed the throw that was draped over the couch and fluffed it over him.

“Too far…” He grumbled into the leather.

Mmm, of course.

“Hyung— Yuri…?”

“She said she’s busy.” Jimin tried to maintain a soft smile as he saw the disappointment settle in Jungkook’s eyes.

“Of course she is…” Jimin hated the way he saw Jungkook’s lip quiver. 

“It’s ok, I’ll stay by your side.” Work was out of the picture, Jimin knew better than to leave him alone when he was like this. “You know, I had this whole plan today to celebrate your birthday.” Jimin suddenly remembered he’d left Jungkook’s present back in his office, he forgot to grab it on his way out. “We can bring the celebration here though. I could start it off by making you breakfast—“

Jimin turned around to see Jungkook already fast asleep.

Not much happened that day, Jungkook didn’t wake up until the sun was setting. In that time Jimin had made a quick trip back to the office, both to tell everyone Jungkook was sick and wouldn’t be at work today, and to grab that present he had left.

Jimin went the extra mile with it, hoping the right gift would help put that pep back in his friend’s step. He was honestly very worried about the present as he prepared it, he couldn’t help but wonder if Jungkook would like it as much as he hoped. What he didn’t expect was Jungkook’s teary reaction through his bleary eyes (despite the fact that he’d slept for the last 12 hours), as he peeled back the wrapping paper.

“You used to play all the time back when we were in high school and college, maybe getting back into it would be good for you.” Jimin smiled.

Sitting on Jungkook’s lap was the box of a new, sleek, black, custom-made electric guitar— the exact one Jungkook had told Jimin so many years ago that he wanted to buy when he started earning a good amount of money. 

“This… hyung what I would give to play this, but… Yuri hates it when I’m loud, I don’t think she’ll let me play it.” Despite his words, Jungkook continued to stare at the picture over the box, letting his hand lightly run over it.

Jimin couldn’t help but roll his eyes at the mention of that woman, tired of her always coming in the way of everything. “Well fuck her! Don’t let her stop you, she’s not even here right now. Please~ I wanted to see you play before I leave.” Jimin should have been a little more cautious with his words considering who he was talking to, but at the end of the day, he meant every word.

Fuck her!

Jungkook’s face dropped, looking less than pleased.

“Hyung, thank you so much for staying here with me today— and for the present, but maybe it’s best if you leave.” Jungkook suddenly sounded very serious as he spoke.

“Huh? What, why?” Jimin was confused at the sudden change in mood.

“I know how you feel about Yuri, but I don’t appreciate you speaking about my wife like that—“

“But Jungkook, you can’t possibly—“

“Leave hyung! Go— please just go!” Jungkook demanded, looking more pissed than ever.

In the silence that followed, this was when Jimin began getting angry. The longer he stared into Jungkook’s eyes, the more he couldn’t believe this was happening. How could Jungkook be choosing someone who hardly paid him any attention over the person he’s been able to count on and has known since he was in elementary school? 

“I can’t believe you’re fucking kicking me out and sticking up for the bitch who couldn’t even be here with you on your birthday.” Jimin angrily mumbled as he got up to put on his shoes. It was a low blow, Jimin could have phrased it a little differently since he knew he was hitting a sensitive topic. It wasn’t fair to Jungkook, but that was the only thing he regretted.

The silence that settled in the room was painful.

“I swear if you’re not out the door in five fucking seconds, I will end you!” Jungkook said slowly through gritted teeth, giving Jimin a glare that he was sure he would never forget in his life. He’d never seen Jungkook so mad, never thought it was possible to make him that mad, and it was over Yuri? 

Five seconds was too long before he heard Jungkook’s hurried footsteps behind him. It was probably only because of the haze of the hangover still weighing Jungkook down, that Jimin was able to grab his shoes, quickly slam the door behind him, and walk away unscathed.

Things just weren’t the same after that.

How could they be?

It’s like Jungkook was pushing him away, and as much as Jimin tried his fucking best to be there for him, he was only human and feelings got in the way sometimes. He regretted leaving that day, with how things played out, anything could’ve happened considering the way Jungkook had been acting lately.

Jimin seriously thought pushing Jungkook to seek professional help would be enough to bring his best friend back— he’d been ecstatic when Jungkook told him he was finally going to therapy, but it seemed that after the first session, he never went back… at least if he did, Jimin didn’t know about it.

Things were bad, probably worse if he knew the whole story. But that— that is exactly the reason why it pissed him off so much every time his coworkers would complain about Jungkook. How could they not see? It was plain as day that something wasn’t right.

That’s why when you came to his office later for your surprise (he gave you a celebratory bottle of expensive champagne) and asked him about Jungkook, it was like a breath of fresh air.

“Director Park, I hope this isn’t weird to ask, but—” 

“Did you have a question?” He interrupted, fully expecting this to be about your new position. 

“No— well, yes, but everything is clear from the meeting. It’s just—” You played with the bottle in your hands, trying to find the right words. 

“Director Jeon— is he… is he okay?” You seemed genuinely concerned, leaving Jimin too stunned to speak for a second.

See, Jimin didn’t hate you, but he knew— everyone who worked on this floor knew— that you didn’t like Jungkook, at all. Your reasons were a little understandable, considering the way his friend had treated you since you started working here.

Jungkook had no reason to target you because of a mistake you made years ago. Even Jimin had no idea why he was being so petty about it, considering he was normally an easygoing guy. He knew Jungkook didn’t hate you, but he could never pinpoint why he treats you like that. 

“Jimin?” You questioned when he continued to stare at you.

“Yeah, I’m fine… um, you’re asking about Jungkook?”

You nodded. “I don’t know during the meeting… sorry, I might be overstepping, but something just seemed off.”

Jimin continued to stare at you, a little unsure of what to say. He wanted so badly to tell you— honestly, he was just happy you noticed— but…

Even he didn’t know what was going on anymore.

•────•──────────•────•

Jimin never gave you a straight answer. He dodged it entirely actually, not at all calming your nerves about your strange meeting. 

You went home that day with Jungkook on your mind, but not like how he usually was— with you cursing his entire bloodline. No, instead you found yourself wondering what he was doing.

Did he eat today?

Was he sleeping alright? 

Anything to write off today as just a bad day, but as the days turned into weeks in your new position, your concern never lightened up. The more time you spent working closer to him, the more you began seeing all the signs you did back then in high school with Mi-Sun. 

It was like it was happening all over again. It took an attempt for you to fully realize what was happening the last time, but you saw the signs back then just like you did now. Something was wrong, very wrong actually, but every time you met one-on-one, you never found it in yourself to ask him directly how he was doing.

Do you still hate Jeon Jungkook? No, and you hate to say you ever did. Would you whine every time he gave you 15 billion tasks to do in one day? Yes, you did every time. But it was clear he must be dealing with a lot, so you just started keeping your complaints to yourself.

Now nearly a month into getting your new position, you had enough things on your plate to deal with other than whining 24/7 about your workload. 

Today you had to lead a meeting in Director Son’s absence. The drastic drop in temperature had been enough to due him in and he’s been out sick all week. It was at the worst time too, everything was ridiculously hectic because of the holiday season coming up.

Without Director Son here, you were basically the acting director. You’ve been scrambling with all the shit that was being piled into your lap, but you tried to keep a brave face.

This presentation nearly made you collapse. It was a big meeting, and Director Son only gave you a few days to prepare after he let you know he was probably going to be out for a while. But you smashed it, because that’s what you always do. You couldn’t help but smile when you earned a round of applause after you concluded the last slide, and breathed a sigh of relief as soon as everyone slowly started getting up and leaving the meeting room. 

It was finally over…

You went to go pack up your stuff when you suddenly felt someone tap your shoulder. Lo and behold it was him, Head Director Jeon.

“Y/n.” Jungkook seemed nervous as he nodded over at you.

You bowed. “Hope you enjoyed my presentation Director Jeon…” You quickly panicked, worried this conversation was going to be about that.

“Yes, you did great— you always do…” He smiled at you. You were a sucker for compliments, but in the moment, it completely went over your head.

“No, actually this is about tomorrow. Usually, I’d do this with Director Son, but since he’s not here, I was hoping you’d be able to fill in for him.” He seemed even more nervous.

“That’s my job.” You put it matter-of-factly.

“Right, yeah, you’re right.” He chuckled nervously. “Um, tomorrow, as you know, things are pretty crazy these days… I have all these documents to go over for the budget presentation we have coming up for next quarter. Would you be available to stay late with me and go through all the details?”

Oh?

“Of course.” You said not putting much thought into it. You stay late most days anyway.

For some reason, he seemed to tense up even more.

“Good… um… make sure to get a good night's rest; tomorrow might be a long day.” He pointed out.

“Hmm?” 

He already knew what you were going to ask. “This could be an all-night thing… sorry to put you in this position— Director Son and I—“ 

“It’s fine sir. I’ll be there.” You said through gritted teeth, trying your best to force a smile. You didn’t want to be here all night; you were already exhausted as it is and now there was no chance you could agree to any of Solmi’s Halloween plans.

The holiday was tomorrow, and she had wanted to whisk you and Taehyung away to Itaewon for a night full of bar hopping to all the places that were hosting parties in the area. She had pleaded for you to consider it even though you already told her how busy you were. You had honestly been thinking about it, it could have been a night out to de-stress from all that was on your plate, but there goes that opportunity. At least if you didn’t go, you could have been home catching up on sleep, relaxing, anything really but be here. And with Jeon Jungkook?

You regretted saying yes so fast.

“Ok— great… um, again, that was a great presentation. See you tomorrow.” It was an awkward goodbye, but that’s how most of your conversations went, so you didn’t dwell on it.

As the door closed behind him, you took a second to breathe, and enjoy the silence of the meeting room. In that peace, you realized a detail your brain completely skipped over.

You were working overtime with Jungkook. You were going to be alone… together.

Suddenly you felt yourself getting a little nervous. 

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[kinqjaehyxn]

Homebound

— jung jaehyun

genre: angst

warning(s): arguments, swearing, almost cheating(?)

word count: 1,591

a/n: i really had lots of fun writing this!! its late and i have work at 9am but whatever jaehyun angst is #1 priority heheh

==================== This was not the Jaehyun you knew. This was not the Jaehyun you fell in love with. This is not the Jaehyun you married and started a family with. The Jaehyun you knew and fell in love with was a completely different person than the Jaehyun who standing in front of you. You don't remember when everything went wrong; you were happy, both of you only a year ago. You gave birth to your now one year old son and your 3 year old daughter was gleaming with joy. For some reason, that felt like years ago.

You starting seeing Jaehyun less and less within the year, his children missing him dearly. Maybe it was because of his new job, you tried to convince yourself. Yet even during his vacation time, he'd always be out with the boys or going to a company dinner to grow closer with his new coworkers. It felt like Jaehyun would only come home to sleep and to be honest, that's how it was for a while. You confronted him about it, how you'd never see him anymore and how your daughter would look for him late at night. He promised you that he would try to be home more, for you and your kids. He kept his promise, only for it to be broken a couple weeks later. Promises are meant to be broken right?

The emptiness you felt without Jaehyun almost made you go crazy. You began to miss his familiar scent, the way he would hold you in the late night, everything about him you missed. You watched as your relationship turned sour; normal conversations with him would turn into full-blown arguments. The last fight you guys had ended up with you kicking Jaehyun out of the house. Sick and tired of him coming home late drunk, you forced him out for the night which lasted into a week. He only came back to grab a couple of his things.

The sight of seeing Jaehyun in your shared home made you livid. All the pent up anger and frustration in you suddenly exploded, yelling and shouting at the man who you call your husband. "You've got some nerve to come back here." Your voice low and stern, careful not to wake up your children. 

"I'm sorry, are you forgetting who's paying for this house?" He retaliates.

"Both of us you asshole." You scoff. "Why the hell are you even here anyways?" 

"I still live here."

You can't help but laugh at his statement, your mind going back to all those nights you spent alone. "Oh do you now?" Sarcasm dripping in your words. "Last time I remember, you were rarely home." 

He groans and rubs his face in his hands. "Oh my god Y/N not this bullshit again. You know damn well why I'm not home."

"Because of your friends? Because of your 'company' dinners? You always come home drunk Jae, if you even decide to come home!" Your tone slowly raises, anger slowly spilling out of you.

"For fucks sake, am I not allowed to relax and spend some time with some friends? God forbid me from having any fun." 

You feel your heart breaking, like it's a fragile piece of glass that's about to shatter at any moment. "That's not what I said!" You defend yourself. "I don't care what you do with your friends, all I'm asking you is to spend some time with your family once in a while."

His face was turning red, the veins in his neck began to pop out. "I do spend time with you guys!"

"Do you? Jesus Christ Jae, you missed Youngji's birthday 2 weeks ago, your own fucking daughter. How could you?"

Jaehyun knew he was in the wrong, he wanted to stop and apologize. But his ego said otherwise. "I was—"

"At work, of course, you were. Do you have any idea how disappointed she was to not see her dad at her birthday party?" 

"Do you want me to quit or something?"

"Jung Jaehyun, you know that's not what I want at all!" 

"Fuck this, I'm leaving." He stormed off, slamming the door on his way out. The tears that you didn't know you were holding back finally poured out. Your glass-like heart finally shattering into a million pieces.

Jaehyun slammed the car door as he pulled out his phone and texted the boys. 'Meet you guys at the club!' 

His big hands gripped onto the steering wheel as he drove to their usual meet up, anger still coursing through his veins. He tries to calm himself down before entering with his buddies. They immediately notice his mood, jokingly poking fun at him. "Aww did mama bear rip you to shreds today?" One of them teases.

Jaehyun ignored the remark and orders drinks for himself. A few shots later, his swaying back forth on the dance floor. He was drunk, but not to the point where he was messed up. Jaehyun stumbled over to the lounge couch, sitting down to regain himself. He rubbed his face in his hands when he felt the cushion beside him sink down. "Hey cutie," An unfamiliar voice called out. "What are you doing here alone?"

He rubbed his eyes to reveal a girl who looks much younger than he was. She was pretty and she smelled of flowers. She was wearing a sleeveless dress and her long, silky hair was tucked behind her ear. "Why don't I give you some company yeah?" She said seductively as she moved closer. 

Jaehyun chuckled, the alcohol spreading throughout his body. Her hand rubbed against his arm, batting her eyelashes at him. Her eyes trailed down to his hand where the silver band wrapped around his finger. "Oh, you're married. Well then," She brought her face closer to his as she whispered against his lips. "don't tell your wife."

It was like something inside of him snapped back to reality. He aggressively shoved the girl off of him and she looked annoyed. "Get off me!" He shouted, standing up. 

"C'mon, it'll be our little secret." She clings onto his arm.

"Just get lost will you?" He says sternly. She rolls her eyes and scoffs. 

"Whatever, jerk."

Jaehyun feels the urge to go back home to his family. He sobered up quickly and left the club, leaving his friends behind without a word. The drive home felt oddly long. Her voice echoed in his head. He felt so utterly guilty of what could've happened. You were the love of his life, the mother of his children. You were his wife that he loved unconditionally. Tears brimmed in his eyes as he realized how close he was to losing you and his kids, his family for good. He realized how selfish he had been for the past year. To say he felt absolutely awful was an understatement. 

The view of the familiar house came into view. He parked his car in the driveway and went straight up to the door. He moved his hand to knock, but quickly remembered that he still had the key. He twists the knob open and went inside, frantically looking for you. He found you sitting in the living room, hugging yourself into a ball. "Y/N" He called out. 

You lift your head and stood up to see a distressed Jaehyun. "Jae—"

Jaehyun interrupts you with a bone crushing hug. "I'm sorry," He mutters, "I'm so sorry for everything, love." 

You felt tears hit the top of your head and you inhaled his calming scent that was mixed with alcohol. "Did you drive drunk?" You ask, worry filling your voice. "How many times do I have to remind you to never do that Jae! You could've have died!"

He hugged you tighter, amazed at how you still cared for him no matter what. "That could never compare to losing my family. God, I'm so sorry for the way I treated you guys." He sobbed. "I'm so sorry for not being here, for not being the husband and father I promised you I would be." 

Your own eyes started to fill with tears at his apology. "You're here now, so it's okay." You whimper. 

"You know damn well it's not. Fuck, I can't believe I put you through all that. I'm so sorry honey." His soothing voice made you cried harder, letting out all the sadness that you kept inside. "I promise I'll be better. I promise I'll be here for you guys more. Just please, don't leave me, I can't bear to lose you."

"I could never leave you, love."

Jaehyun pulled away and cupped your face. He wiped the remaining tears away with his thumb and gave you a long, passionate kiss. "I love you so much, never forget that." He says, kissing you once again. 

"I love you too Jae, so much." He kissed you once more before pulling you into another hug. You two stayed like that for a while, feeling peace and comfort once again. 

"Daddy's home!!" The sound of your little girl rung through the living room. 

Jaehyun pulled away and bent down, opening his arms to the little girl running towards him. He peppered her face in kisses as she giggles. "What is my little angel doing up this late?" He smiles, carrying her in his arms. "Let’s get you back to bed sweetheart."

You watched from behind as he walked away with your daughter to her bedroom. You smiled at the sight. He's finally back home. 

[immortalcockroach]

50 questions you’ve never been asked

asdfghjkl i know this was a thing about a week ago and i’m just hella slow ahhh 

big thanks to everyone who tagged me! ( @she-who-the-river-could-not-hold @important-metaphors @iishallbelieve @iwearplaids @sassmasterblake @burninghoneyatdusk )

What is the color of your hairbrush? black, cheapest one from primark, you know it

Name a food you never eat? sushi…too raw.

Are you typically too warm or too cold? i have two moods: ‘i’m fucking freezing’ and ‘i’m fucking boiling’, never in-between

What were you doing 45 minutes ago? i walked into the kitchen to prepare lunch then i realised it’s past midnight

What is your favorite candy bar? either reese’s peanut butter cups, or kinder happy hippo with cocoa cream

Have you ever been to a professional sports event? hell yeah; my sister’s boxing tournaments, a whole load of football matches when i was a kid, and a few handball matches

What is the last thing you said out loud? ‘aight imma head out’ … 

What is your favorite ice cream? stracciatella!! it’s just plain ice cream with chocolate chunks 

What was the last thing you had to drink? water!

Do you like your wallet? not really. i can never seem to get a wallet that i like, they’re never functional enough

What was the last thing you ate? a bowl of oatmeal…for breakfast (which was at 5pm)

Did you buy any new clothes last weekend? haven’t bought clothes since january my dude

The last sporting event you watched? pretty sure it was a champions league game?? i think it was liverpool playing against someone. is liverpool even in champions league? don’t quote me on that

What is your favorite flavor of popcorn? salty is the only valid one and if you like any other you’re a weirdo what even

Who is the last person you sent a text message to? my flatmate

Ever go camping? yeah! been a few times with my family

Do you take vitamins? ehhh no, i tried but i’m really horrible at taking daily pills so i just gave up

Do you go to church every Sunday? i used to, but i’ve been to church a handful of times since i moved to scotland in september ‘18 since they’re not big on roman catholicism and i’m not a big believer…yeah

Do you have a tan? ahhh don’t get me started on this. i always have a tan. it doesn’t go away. i tan really easily and it literally does not go away even when a year has passed

Do you prefer Chinese food or pizza? pizza, i don’t like chinese and never understood the hype

Do you drink your soda with a straw? no?? save the turtles

What color socks do you usually wear? whatever i get for christmas, honestly. mostly monochrome or with little dots. rn i have white with little black flowers on them, kinda cute

Do you ever drive above the speed limit? hehehe driver’s licence who?

What terrifies you? death, failure, and the phrase ‘we need to talk’

Look to your left, what do you see? a bottle of water (stay hydrated folks!!)

What chore do you hate? laundry (but only bc it’s expensive :/)

What do you think of when you hear an Australian accent? oh yeah boy pls never stop talking

What’s your favorite soda? freeway cola, that’s the cheapest thing i get in lidl and AMAZING for curing hangovers

Do you go in a fast food place or just hit the drive-thrus? go in, as i never go anywhere with a car so it’s not even an option

Who’s the last person you talked to? same flatmate that i last texted

Favorite cut of beef? ??? i don’t even know what this means. i don’t really eat beef

Last song you listened to? sadderdaze by the neighbourhood; i was working on a story it’s perfect for

Last book you read? hitch hiker’s quide to the galaxy, currently reading it

Favorite day of the week? don’t have one?? 

Can you say the alphabet backwards? bruh i barely even know the alphabet 

How do you like your coffee? ok so hold up. so two teaspoons of sugar, two teaspoons of instant nescafe instant coffee, two teaspoons of boiling water, half a teaspoon of vanilla extract. this is mixed until it’s a creamy texture, then poured over three quarters of milk with a bunch of ice. then mixed until it’s all one colour, left aside 5 - 10 mins for a sweet foam to form on top. it’s…a process. i don’t like any other coffee.

Favorite pair of shoes? i don’t have one. probs my burgundy boots cause they’re the most convenient since they have a zipper and i’m lazy

The time you normally go to sleep? ahhh i always aim for 2am but for the past few weeks, between 6am and 10am

The time you normally get up? between 12pm and 5pm. time is a social construct

What do you prefer, sunrise or sunsets? sunsets!!

How many blankets on your bed? one blanket and one duvet

Describe your kitchen plates: we have a bunch of different ones , but the one i bought is baby blue and hella cute

Do you have a favorite alcoholic beverage? my flatmate’s homemade mojitos, or whatever i make when i show up to a party already drunk and see alcohol and mixers sitting about. i’ve been told the drinks i make on these occasions are absolutely amazing

Do you play cards? yep, it’s a family tradition and if you don’t play cards, then you’re considered a weirdo

What color is your car? my fam’s car is black

Can you change a tire? Yep

Your favorite province? …what provinces are we talking about?

Favorite job you’ve ever had? i was doing the dishes for a cafe a few years back, and i’d occasionally get to tend the bar, too, and chat with the customers and help out, plus my coworkers were really lovely and chatty, it was so much fun

How did you get your biggest scar? i was 12, i was shaving my legs and somehow managed to get a 10-inch long layer of skin shaved off. it was nastyyy 

What did you do today that made someone else happy? i gave my best friend some boy advice and reassurance, she seemed pretty chipper about that lol

i honestly have no clue who’s done this already and who hasn’t, so if you see this and want to do this, consider yourself tagged!

[closetspngirl]

I dare you.... ALL of them. Yeah... I said. All. Of. Them. hehehe

Just remember...you asked...

If anyone else is even remotely interested in reading some/any/all my answers to all 100 questions, see below. For the rest of you, I hope the keep reading tab works...

1: is there a boy/girl in your life? Yes

2: think of the last person who hurt you; do you forgive them? Not sure yet

3: what do you think of when you hear the word “meow?” A cat?

4: what’s something you really want right now? Well a couple things...pick a coast...

5: are you afraid of falling in love? Sort of. I’m currently watching it crumble before me...and I’m not sure I can do that to myself again.

6: do you like the beach? I love the beach!

7: have you ever slept on a couch with someone else? Yes

8: what’s the background on your cell? A black and white of Jensen playing the guitar. My lock screen is a digital painting of Genevieve’s Ruby.

9: name the last four beds you were sat on? Umm...huh? Mine, my coworkers...a family friend...and I guess my mom’s?

10: do you like your phone? I do.

11: honestly, are things going the way you planned? I mean...no? But they’re looking up.

12: who was the last person whose phone number you added to your contacts? One of the sales ladies at work.

13: would you rather have a poodle or a rottweiler? Neither. 

14: which hurts the most, physical or emotional pain? Probably emotional. I’m a total empath so I can be super sensitive. 

15: would you rather visit a zoo or an art museum? Depends on what art exhibit is going on.

16: are you tired? Yes. I got 3.5 hours of sleep and this is your cruel way of keeping me awake for at least another hour. lol. It’s a good thing you’re cute. 

17: how long have you known your 1st phone contact? As long as I’ve been at my current job, just over a year.

18: are they a relative? No.

19: would you ever consider getting back together with any of your exes? Fuck. No.

20: when did you last talk to the last person you shared a kiss with? Uhh...like 30 minutes ago (when was the kiss is a WHOLE other question)

21: if you knew you had the right person, would you marry them today? If I knew that that was it for either of us, yet. 

22: would you kiss the last person you kissed again? I mean...maybe on the cheek in a ‘have a nice life’ kinda way

23: how many bracelets do you have on your wrists right now? One

24: is there a certain quote you live by? Oh wow...there’s a few that I like but I’m horrible with recalling them.

25: what’s on your mind? a lot of things...

26: do you have any tattoos? I do, three, four is getting added hopefully this year, for sure next year (or it might be five at that point...)

27: what is your favorite color? Purple

28: next time you will kiss someone on the lips? August

29: who are you texting? Does tumblr messaging count? If so, you, and the person I’m texting

30: think to the last person you kissed, have you ever kissed them on a couch? Yes

31: have you ever had the feeling something bad was going to happen and you were right? Yes

32: do you have a friend of the opposite sex you can talk to? Yes

33: do you think anyone has feelings for you? Yes

34: has anyone ever told you you have pretty eyes? Yes

35: say the last person you kissed was kissing someone right in front of you? Hope she likes it...

36: were you single on valentines day? I mean...strictly speaking, no. Did I go out and do anything? No. I was working.

37: are you friends with the last person you kissed? Uhh...hard to answer.

38: what do your friends call you? By my name, or a few different nicknames

39: has anyone upset you in the last week? YES.

40: have you ever cried over a text? Yes. Both good and bad.

41: where’s your last bruise located? Oh goodness...uh...I think it’s the one on the side of my right knee

42: what is it from? Who the fuck knows...it just showed up one day.

43: last time you wanted to be away from somewhere really bad? Yesterday, day before that, Saturday, almost every day last week...

44: who was the last person you were on the phone with? Personal phone: R. Work phone: sales department.

45: do you have a favourite pair of shoes? My converse

46: do you wear hats if your having a bad hair day? I hate hats.

47: would you ever go bald if it was the style? Never

48: do you make supper for your family? I can, am able, rarely do.

49: does your bedroom have a door? Yes, thank god.

50: top 3 web-pages? Tumblr, IG and...my portfolio currently I guess since I’m trying to update it.

51: do you know anyone who hates shopping? Yeah...me. lol. Ok, not completely true. Clothes shopping is a huge hassle. 

52: does anything on your body hurt? Yes. Head, neck, back, stomach, feet (gotta love a kitchen job)

53: are goodbyes hard for you? Depends on the goodbye, mostly yes

54: what was the last beverage you spilled on yourself? Uh...probably coffee

55: how is your hair? It’s fine, thanks for asking. HA!. j/k. It’s up in a messy bun and headband

56: what do you usually do first in the morning? Turn off my alarm, See who messaged me and get ready for work

57: do you think two people can last forever? I think it’s possible, as long as both people want it.

58: think back to january 2007, were you single?  No

59: green or purple grapes? Green. Purple grapes are too sweet for me.

60: when’s the next time you will give someone a big hug? Probably...Friday when L is back at work. Otherwise, August.

61: do you wish you were somewhere else right now? Yes. Didn’t I already answer this? Pick a coast...I want to go there.

62: when will be the next time you text someone? Later tonight

63: where will you be 5 hours from now? In my bed. Asleep. So help me Chuck if I’m not.....

64: what were you doing at 8 this morning. Uhh...just waking up for the third time.

65: this time last year, can you remember who you liked? Other than Jensen/Jared/Dean/Sam? Uhh....Oh I guess I was crushing on B a little...but that ship has long sailed. 

66: is there one person in your life that can always make you smile? Absolutely. 

67: did you kiss or hug anyone today? I hugged L. I’m surprised he’s not tired of me yet. lol

68: what was your last thought before you went to bed last night? That I really need to be better at letting shit go.

69: have you ever tried your hardest and then gotten disappointed in the end? Yes. 

70: how many windows are open on your computer? Windows? One. Tabs...? 10.

71: how many fingers do you have? 8 plus two thumbs.

72: what is your ringtone? Priceless by for KING & COUNTRY

73: how old will you be in 5 months? 31

74: where is your mum right now? South Dakota

75: why aren’t you with the person you were first in love with or almost in love? A long list of really shitty reasons.

76: have you held hands with somebody in the past three days? No

77: are you friends with the people you were friends with two years ago? Definitely

78: do you remember who you had a crush on in year 7? At 7? Let’s see...first grade...I don’t think I had a crush on anyone. I remember there was this kid Ben that I hated because he used to take my stuff all the time. OH!! There was this really cute blonde boy that I can’t think of his name right now. He was only there for that year and then left.

79: is there anyone you know with the name mike? Yes! My best friend’s dad. lol. He’s like my second father.

80: have you ever fallen asleep in someones arms? Umm...I mean technically speaking? Yes...the way I wanted it to be? No. It was more that I fell asleep with my head on them and then they nudged me off so they could roll over...

81: how many people have you liked in the past three months? HA! Well....B...R...J...three. I’ll go with three.

82: has anyone seen you in your underwear in the last 3 days? Yes

83: will you talk to the person you like tonight? Already am

84: you’re drunk and yelling at hot guys/girls out of your car window, you’re with? I wouldn’t do that, but if I was...probably my friend Carrie...

85: if your bf/gf was into drugs would you care? I mean...probably?

86: what was the most eventful thing that happened last time you went to see a movie? Well...I can’t even remember the last movie I went to go see...I think it was maybe Brooklyn, with my mom. So not a lot other than watching the movie. 

87: who was your last received call from? Work

88: if someone gave you $1,000 to burn a butterfly over a candle, would you? Only if it was already dead. Otherwise, no.

89: what is something you wish you had more of? energy...?

90: have you ever trusted someone too much? Yuuuuup.

91: do you sleep with your window open? When I can.

92: do you get along with girls? I do

93: are you keeping a secret from someone who needs to know the truth? Am I keeping a secret? Yes. Do they need to know? No.

94: does sex mean love? No

95: you’re locked in a room with the last person you kissed, is that a problem? Uhh...it’d be boring AF

96: have you ever kissed anyone with a lip ring? No

97: did you sleep alone this week? Yes. Have been for months now.

98: everybody has somebody that makes them happy, do you? I’m working on it. I’d like to think so.

99: do you believe in love at first sight? umm...maybe? not entirely sure

100: who was the last person that you pinky promise? Oh lord...I don’t even remember. lol

Thanks for the challenge!!! xoxox

[aliloverthetop]

at the bottom of the bottle

Pairings: none, well sorta. there’s some pining Logicality and brotherly Analogical.

Summary: The day Virgil sees his formal, well-composed brother turn into a mess at midnight, accompanied by the mess of problems he carries around everyday.

Warning: Intoxication, homophobia, cursing, minor mention of transphobia.

Taglist: @asofterfan @tinysidestrashcaptain

When he was eight, Virgil had already decided that Logan was the strongest person he had ever met. No, he didn’t have the most muscular body but he was mentally strong. Logan could persevere like no one else could and could handle anything cooly until the person takes the last straw. An angry student or parent would go up to him, yelling about some random and boring stuff: Logan would calmly handle it. 

Virgil admired his brother since day one.

It wasn’t until he was fourteen that he saw that Logan wasn’t as strong as he used to think.

Virgil was folding origami by the TV, watching as a seal got mauled by a shark. It did some sort of hair flip with the seal. He was home alone, waiting until Logan came back from getting groceries. He could hear the rain patter against the outer wall of the apartment, his camera recording everything in the corner of the room for a small project. (Waiting for Logan to come home and scaring him.)

Virgil heard the flick on the electric kettle pop back into its regular place. He got up and started humming the newest Panic! At the Disco song. The fourteen-year-old tore open the paper lid of the cup noodle container, taking out the little flavoring packets. He listened to the voice of the smooth-talking man talking over sailfish hunting.

“I pray for the wicked on the weekend! Mama, can I get another Amen? OOOOOH OOOOh! Oh! It’s Saturday nig-”

Thump! 

Virgil nearly dropped his cup noodles, “What the fu-”

A person from the other side of the front door started talking, “It’s not-  hic! Saturday Virgil, it’s a Friday. HIC! Oh, my Einstein what is a glabella?” 

Virgil froze, recognizing the unclear voice, “Logan?”

“What the fudge balls is a Logan? What animal classification is a Looooogan in? Scientific name? Hic! Genes? Species? Hahahaha!” 

Virgil heaved his shoulders and frowned, Is Logan drunk? Holy schist he is totally drunk. He set down the cup noodles on the counter and walked up to the front door, peeping into the little circle of glass embedded into the door. On the other side of the door was his hysterical brother, laughing as he leaned against the door. Logan was soaking wet, glasses lopsided on his face and his shoes placed on his hands. His tie was wrapped around his head. Virgil could see a bruise on Logan’s neck and right cheekbone. A bunch of surprisingly neat letters was printed on his forearm with a winky face and a ‘call me’ written below it. He leaned away from the door’s peephole and whispered a faint, “What the frick-frack.”

He unlocked the door and said, “Logan, are you okay?”

“No! My name is Sherlock! Not Kay! Hic!”

Virgil sighed as he saw his brother be a drunk idiot, “Get in here.” He grabbed Logan by the armpits when his brother refused to comply and dragged him into the living room, all while he was laughing hysterically. “What is that on your neck Logan?”

“Oh! It’s an apple! Hahaha! Or is it a gift from that man at the tub? Pub? Rub? Hehehehe!” Logan giggled.

“A pub? What the hell were you doing at a freaking pub? Do you know what could probably happen at a pub? It better not be that ‘Freak me Out Gently!’ bar! If it is I am going to scre-”

“Hic! Yeah! That was the name of the pub! There were yellow bees everywhere! Bzz! Bzz! Don’t go away believer! Hehe!” Now Logan was lying on the floor, spread eagle. Eyes closed. “The guy there was pretty! He had bee cheeks! Beees! Honey! He called me honey! Hehe!”

Virgil screeched, “WHat? You’re telling me you went to a pub named after a ‘Heathers’ quote and you flirted with a guy that you didn’t even know? The more you tell me, the more I freak out! Why did you go there anyway? You told me you were going to a Walmart! I didn’t expect you to go to a flipping bar!”

“HAha! Hic! I went there because... ooh! Sharks! You like sharks? I like sharks too! They’re... LIT!” His twenty-four-year-old brother said, excitement clear on his face.

“...What the f!ck. You’re acting like Patton!”

Logan stayed silent. His face turning concerned,”...Patton? Is he okay?”

Virgil rolled his eyes, “Yeah. But you haven’t answered my god damn question: why did you go there?”

Logan opened his mouth then closed it,”What’s a question?”

Virgil facepalmed, massaging his temples and his hands running over the bottoms of his eyes. “Dear lord. You tried, you failed. I’m getting you to sleep.” Virgil grabbed his brother by the armpits and dragged him through the apartment to his neat room.

Unlike his drunken brother, the room was neatly organized and looked more like an office than a bedroom. One wall was painted black with reminders in post-it notes on the wall. His desk was right next to his bed with stacks and stacks of test papers. Virgil hopped onto the bed and heaved Logan onto the bed. “You suck Logan, what the actual f!ck?”

“I don’t know! Hic! Hehehe!” Logan giggled, taking off his black shirt and pants. He tossed it across the room, where it hit the black wall and dragged down three yellow post-it notes. “Is it sleepy time?”

“Yes you nerd, it is sleepy time,” Virgil replied, digging around in Logan’s dresser. He picked up a baggy shirt that had Einstein’ face on it and tossed it to Logan. “Wear this.”

Logan slipped it on and slumped against the bed and whispered, “I’m pining. Pines are conifers, which don’t lose their sieves- leaves, I’m pining Virgey! I’m pining for a cutesy! So cute!” He squished his cheeks together.

It took two freaking seconds until he realizes who Logan is talking about. Virgil slammed his hands down on his dresser and faced the drunken brother across the room. “Patton? You’re pining for Patton?” He sputtered. “W-Why? Have you seen how upset he was when you were mean to him? You do realize you could have lost your friendship when you told him he was childish? Immature? That he needed to grow up and start acting like an adult? HAVE YOU FRICKIN' REALISED WHAT YOU HAVE DONE TO YOUR RELATIONSHIP LATELY?"

Logan slumped against the pillows and whispered, "I'm a messssss. I'm a bee-ast. Messy. Is there a manual guide on emotions? Feelings? Should I use a freaking wrench? HUH?"

Virgil sighed, "We'll talk about this in the morning okay? I don't think I can give advice to a drunk person."

"Wheee! Clear my friend! I love you!"

Virgil smiled, "Love you too Microsoft." He tossed a sleeping mask to Logan and walked to the kitchen to fill up Logan's water bottle with water. He returned with the bottle and Advil. Logan was asleep when Virgil had returned. He placed it on his brother's desk, patting his head before going out. He turned off the lights, displaying the glow in the dark stars that he had painted on the ceiling and smiled. He then shut the door.

Today, Virgil woke up earlier than his brother. Which was already strange enough as both of them were not morning people. He was making coffee as National Geographic was playing in the background. He was listening for the sound of Logan waking up and groaning at what a mess he was, or the hangover.

Then he heard a groan and a screech only Logan could make. Virgil sighed, widening his eyes and biting his lip as he heard an epiphany of curse words and bird-like shrieks come from his brother’s room. Soon enough Logan had burst through the door and yelled,”What the f!ck happened last night?” 

Virgil shrugged, rolling his eyes”I don’t know. You giggling like an idiot over someone you’ve been mean to for the past few days? Going to a bar named after a watered-down ‘Heathers’ quote? Getting the number of a guy who gave you a hickey when you told me you were getting groceries? You should be the one giving me answers Lo! What  the hell happened?” Logan cringed at his brother’s tone and volume.

Logan rubbed at his eyes and bit his lip, “I-I um...”

“Logan, I love you but tell me why right now! I deserve to know why my older brother was such a mess last night!”

His brother sighed, “I... may be permanently dismissed from my position of an educator due to my orientation in romantic partners.”

Virgil nearly dropped the mug he was holding, “Hold up. They wanna fire you because you’re gay?

Logan nodded, his eyes filled with a sadness that Virgil saw only once in a while, “I... was discussing my infatuation with Patton with a coworker I find credence in.. You know Fiza. She was very kind about it and said that we needed to go on a romantic outing underneath a rainbow sometime. Apparently, an extremely homophobic teacher by the name of-”

“Ms. Divonsky. She’s my History and French teacher. She’s really homophobic and I really, really want to punch her.” Virgil replied.

“...yes. That is her name. She told our principal and is forcing him to fire me. He said he’s deciding, the announcement will be out on Monday.”

Virgil slammed the cup down on the counter, hard enough to make a sharp sound but soft enough not to crack the mug, “Oh the nerve of that b!tch. I’m gonna go ahead and behead her and everyone would applaud-”

“Virgil, as much as I would like to hear the lovely noise of the guillotine’s blade on her flesh and bone, I feel like violence will not solve all of these problems.”

The younger brother poured coffee into the mug and slid it over into Logan’s palms, “F!ck. You’re right. Damn it, I hate it when you’re right.”

The older brother took a few large gulps of coffee, “I’m always right.”

“Yeah, whatever.” He said, placing the coffee pot next to Logan. 

Logan sighed, placing down his cup, “This is horrible, unsatisfactory and downright dreadful. Virgil, if I lose this job, do you have any idea what will happen to you? I won't be able to take care of you, your education will crumble into pieces and what will become of you? Will you slowly evolve into a homeless man without any family or good life ahead of you? Will your-" He grabbed fistfuls of his hair and looked down, elbows on the table.

He was spiraling.

Virgil cut in, banging his fists on the table. “Logan. LOGAN!”

Silence replaced Logan’s worried ramblings. Logan was breathing heavily, the younger brother glaring at him as he caught his breath.

“Logan, you are literally the best brother I could ever hope for. You always plan ahead of time, you help me with studying and take me for fro-yo. Most of all, you are so encouraging. It’s nice to know that someone is nice when you’re stuck at school with f!cking asshats.” Oh, my Lord, Virgil has an internal Patton.

Logan wiped at his eyes, whispering a curse to emotions that Virgil could clearly hear.”... I will be a failure as a brother if I get fired. Our parents trusted me with being your guardian. If I fail to give you a proper education.. could you even imagine how upset they would be? All of the futures I can think of always end in something utterly disgraceful and horrendous.”

“Look, I don’t give a f!ck about education. Why the f!ck would you even need to know what the circumference of a circle is anyway? Mom and Dad would have just wanted us to be happy. If you get fired, it’s a good thing. You finally get away from a community of rats and snakes and get to spend more time pining on Patton and apologizing for being a b!tch.”

Logan blinked at Virgil, before hissing at the drunken confessions he had spat out last night from his stress-drinks at that bar.

"And also, you’re overthinking about my future, plus you have a big ass hangover from last night. I’ll be fine Logan. I’m so glad you have the Time Stone to tell my future. Oh wait, it’s not a real thing.”

The older brother smiled a little bit. 

Holy sh!t, this is actually working. Am I that good at cheering up my brother? This is like the bonding thing in ‘Hogwarts Mystery’. Oh my god, Logan is Rowan.

“It’s a good thing because you’ll be happy to be out of that homophobic hellhole. I swear I know like four teachers who are pieces of ‘merde’ who think that trans-people aren’t valid. We’ll go to a new school where all the homophobes can go and punch themselves. If you get fired, curse out that little b!tchin French and then give her a cake made with glass shards and enough eye drops to kill her. Make sure it’s rainbow with ‘GAY’‘ spelled on the inside. Then write ‘Baiser’on the top with blood red frosting.”

That made Logan laugh. Virgil internally saw the two bars fitting into each other and filling up the bar on the top with diamonds. 

Logan smiled, I owe you great thanks, Virgil. You are an amazing brother.”

“Whatever. Get to bed, you just knocked over a tissue box. Also, please don’t throw up-”

“.. I’ll go to sleep once I do exactly just that. Thank you again, Virgil.”

“Your welcome, I guess.”

Then his older brother sprinted to the bathroom and let out the sound you would make if an alien was crawling out your throat.

Virgil sighed. Reminder: Never let Logan get sad again.

Virgil found out he was an amazing wingman soon enough. It was obvious by the couple holding hands in the background, completely surrounded by the shining stars.

Thank you for reading this fic! Please reblog, like and comment (Please write stuff with your reblogs). I like hearing from you guys. If you want a part two, just tell me! Thanks!

- Heath

[yeolsaurs]

❧ lust and lattes - do kyungsoo

@akutagawahakuryuunosuke asked :  Is your ask box is open? If it open can i request a Kyungsoos scenario? The plot is what if both of them happen to have a one night stand and never meet again till she come to his coffee shop, finding him making coffee while singing after that is up to you, thank you^^ hope my plot doesnt confuse u, u can add smut if u like hehehe thank you

again, my ask box is always open until i become too stocked up, so please, feel free to request! but this is a very nice scenario and i do love myself some coffee shop au’s, well, any kind of au’s. maybe i’ll post an au list that i can do

you had another one night stand, but this time you were sober enough to know what you were doing and who you were doing it with. he probably doesn’t remember, but you do. you two never saw each other again until came the morning you saw him singing while making some lattes. 

WARNING : CONTAINS SEXUAL THEMES

The alcohol was washing over you, along with the feeling of him wrapped around you. The way his lips planted on your skin, the way he moved gracefully, the way he loved you. That feeling didn’t last long, a feeling so strong like that never last that long.

The blissful night that made you feel special was long forgotten the next morning. He was gone, he wasn’t near you anymore. You lied in your bed, trying to remember what happened last but with more detail. The only thing that came to mind was his face you saw through the night, the name you were moaning, and the slight pain you had been left with.

“I knew it was too good to be true.” With that you left your room and into the bathroom, wiping up a bath and getting ready to soak yourself inside of it. Maybe a nice bath would calm you down a bit, and maybe some water will give your hangover a good punch.

It's been at least two weeks after that one night, your coworkers - mainly Kim Jongin, the dude who sat next to you in the office - kept teasing you about how you, the worker always caught up in her work and never has time for a social life, had a one night stand. The teasing didn't end until the next week, and now it was just Jongin constantly asked if you ever encountered him since that night.

You haven't yet, but you were positive the guy had slept with was behind that counter making your latte, singing into the cafe that only held the both of you.

The cafe had just opened a couple minutes ago, so that was why it was just the two of you at the moment. He hasn't noticed you yet, so you were wondering if he was completely drunk that night and forgot everything or he forgot over the two weeks you have been apart. But, you really didn't hope he forgot about what happened that night. It was the first night you had really enjoyed even if you were under the influence.

He continued to sing while making the latte, you felt like he was singing to you and only you. He kinda was, he was just aimlessly singing and you were the only one there. "You have a beautiful voice." You spoke out to him, making him almost spill your latte on the ground at the sudden sound of your voice.

"Thank you, you have a beautiful voice too-" He stopped talking, eyes wide at what he had just said to you. You caught onto his words, processing them into your mind. Was he talking about your talking voice or does he remember that night you two were caught up in each other? You didn't know and you didn't want to think of it, so you pushed the thought aside and looked down at your now fidgeting his hands.

"Sorry, word vomit." You nodded at him, still sitting at the table by yourself and waiting for him to call your name for the drink.

It was silent now, nothing but the sound of the coffee machines working and him singing a line or two from a song you couldn't make out. "You're latte is ready." He placed the drink on the counter for you, handing you a straw when you came to collect your drink. You thanked him for the drink and left the building.

"The dude who made your coffee got your name mixed up," Kim Jongin twirled the cup in his hands, looking at the writing the barista has written on your cup, "last time I checked your name was [Y/N] and not 'the girl who I met a couple nights ago', and I don't remember your name being a bunch of digits either." Your eyes widened and you grabbed the empty cup from his hands, looking at the writing.

'To the girl who I met a couple nights ago, call me.' Under the message was indeed his number, and you were freaked. He remembered you, he actually remembered you. "Oh my god, he remembers me." Placing the cup back onto your desktop, you picked up your phone and dialed the number - and hitting Jongin in the process because he was trying to steal your pens.

"Hello?" His deep voice spoke from the other side, which made you a bit nervous. “Uhm, hi, it’s the girl who you made the latte for this morning calling."

“Oh, hello.” His voice seemed a bit less serious, a small kick was added to his voice which made you smile a bit. “Hello.” You responded, feeling a bit more awkward then you were now that you were on the phone with him. And Jongin watching you, it just made you even more nervous.

"I'm glad you called." You smiled at his words, "Of course I would call, you put your phone number on my cup." At the corner of your eyes, you could see Jongin mocking your words and putting on a dreamy face. You wanted to scold him for doing that but you were interrupted by the chuckle that came from the other male over the phone.

"So, [Y/N], about that night," You froze. He wanted to talk about the night, you did too, but not at work, and with Jongin around, "I'm really sorry." Your mind searched for words to respond to him, not wanting to collect attention from Jongin or any of your other coworkers.

"No, it's okay, Kyungsoo." When you heard him say your name, you felt like you could finally call him by his name and not sound like a complete stalker. "You were probably just as shocked as I was." He seemed to notice your whisper because he quickly asked if you would like to call later.

"No, I was the one who called you, but I think we can call later since I'm still at work." He agreed, "Text me when you get off of work and we can call then." With that said, you ended the call and went back to work, well not before you pushed Jongin out of your office after he shouted '[Y/N]'s going on a date!'

You did text him after you got off work, wanting to talk to him straight away about the topic he had brought up earlier. It's not every day you come across the guy you had a one-night-stand with, so of course, you were gonna meet up with him and see if you could fix things up, or make them better.

‘Okay, do you want to meet up?’ Kyungsoo texted you, and you told him that you did. It’s best to talk face to face about these things anyway, and he had a really nice face too. He told you to meet him at the cafe you went to this morning. You texted him a quick ‘okay’ and started driving to that cafe. 

By the time you were there, Kyungsoo was already seated at the table with a drink in his hand, and a drink - which you bet was a latte - that was placed across from him. 

“A latte?” Kyungsoo’s eyes moved towards you, finishing up his gulp and giving you a wide smile. “The one you ordered this morning.” You took a seat, rubbing your hands and picking up the warm latte to take a drink. 

“It tastes different.” He shrugged and crossed his arms, clearing his throat as you took another drink of your latte. You took one last gulp and let out a noise of satisfaction before nudging him to start talking. 

“Right, so about that night, like I said, I am sorry. I really didn’t mean to leave you but you were probably drunk and would freak out when you saw me and I didn’t want you to think of m-”

“Kyungsoo, I wasn’t as drunk as you think.” You laughed, “I was still sober, I knew what was happening.” He let out a sigh and gave you a small smile. Your eyes drifted down at the lips that gave you all the teasing and marks. They were almost heart shaped, his lips were plump too. It must’ve been great kissing him. 

“So, I thought why don’t we get to know each other? Maybe we could be friends.” You nodded your head straight after he finished, of course you wanted to be friends. Well, you wanted to be more then friends, but befriending him is the first step to a beautiful relationship, right?

1.4K WORDS wow this was kind of a pain in the ass to write, not in a bad way but bc my family left the day I was planning to finish it up and then yesterday I had to do all the christmas cleaning and then my mom turned off the wifi bc i back sassed her and then hfjandjahodiafghaioh. yeah, but here you go. love, chen

[queerofcups]

Title: love me for the day Rating: M Word Count: 2857 Summary:  Dan and Phil have a housewarming party and Drunk and Very Flirty Dan is in attendance.

Also, there’s an instance of Dan kissing someone other than Phil w/ Phil’s implicit consent, so if that’s not a thing you’re into, totes fine! just don’t say i didn’t warn you. 

[link to Ao3]

“I’m sure you could find somewhere to sit. Someone’s face, maybe?” slips out of Dan’s mouth, unbidden. He’s aware that he’s leering at Louise, who, while very fit, he loves like a very motherly older sister. “Oh god,” Dan says, looking down at the glass of champagne in his hand accusatorily and back up at Louise, who looks amused and was definitely vlogging. “I can’t believe I just said that. Please don’t include that in your vlog. I’m going to go somewhere and die now. Thank you for coming to our new home.” Dan makes his way through the crowd filling their new apartment. It’s not nearly the squeeze it would have been in the old apartment and everyone’s been oohing and aaahing over their new decor since the housewarming party started a few hours ago.

He’s almost to the other side of the living area, scanning the space for Phil when he bumps into Caspar. When he and Phil first envisioned the homecoming party, it had been a small thing with their closest friends. Then Phil had started making noise about all the parties they’d been invited to over the years by their coworkers and how they’d never reciprocated because of the size of their flat. Dan had acquiesced and watched the guest list grow before his eyes into this weirdly well attended friends and friendly co-workers shindig. Which was why he was gently patting Caspar’s pec, a little dazed and definitely drunk.

“Dan!” Caspar says, pulling him into one of those manly, clappy straight boy hugs.

“Casp!”Dan says, smiling at Caspar. He stays within hugging distance. He’s drunk enough to be swaying on his feet a little, so he rests a hand on Capsar’s chest to steady himself. “Hi. How’s the party going for you?”

Caspar grins at him, glancing down at his hand, “Excellent, mate! I’m really glad you invited us, this is a really cool place.”

“Mm,” Dan says, nodding. “Definitely, hey, where’s Joe?”

“Ah,” Caspar says, looking around, “Not entirely sure?”

Dan looks at him. Capsar looks back, then glances down at Dan’s hand, where he’s now sort of, lightly stroking Capar’s pec.

“Dan?” Caspar asks. Dan glances at his hand, and grins at Caspar.

“You know, I know you and Joe are straight and all, but if you just need some coaching tips on how to take that to the next level, I’ve been told I’m a very good kisser—“

“Dan! Hello!” Phil says, coming out of nowhere, cutting him off. Rude. He’d turn to tell Phil he’s being rude, except Caspar’s making really hilarious confused noises and Phil is gently nudging him away with a hand on his hip.

Dan sighs and allows Phil to push him away from Caspar, squeezing Caspar’s pec a little as he goes. He’s fairly sure he hears Caspar squeak, but it gets lost in the music.

“Phil!” Dan says, turning to Phil. “I was matchmaking! There was a love connection about to happen.”

Phil’s leads him toward the weirdly angular yet comfy ottoman thing that’s become his favorite piece of furniture in the apartment after he and Dan had fought over buying it for hours. PJ is sitting on the couch across from it. Phil lets go of his hip to sit on the ottoman and Dan gingerly steps over PJ’s outstretched legs to sit on the floor next to Phil. It’s a little uncomfortable, but Dan can lean his head against Phil’s knee. The room spins around him gently. Phil drops a hand to his hair, scritching a little and Dan moans. Phil and PJ start talking again, clearly continuing a conversation about a collab idea they’ve been batting around for months. Phi tugs Dan’s hair a little, probably to get him to lift his head up, but Dan just moans again. “You doin’ alright there, Howell?” PJ asks him. Dan looks up at him, and licks his lips. “Not as alright as you could make me feel. You know you’re on me and Phil’s list, right?” “Dan,” Phil laughs and drops his hand out of Dan’s hair. “I had to save Caspar from him. Dan was trying to hook him and Joe up by seducing him?”

“Is it that point in the night already?” PJ asks lightly, reaching over to ruffle Dan’s hair. Dan tilts his head agreeably, making more pleased noises. “I’m very drunk and you’re very pretty,” Dan confirms, nodding. The room spins a little faster. He pulls away from PJ and drains the rest of his champagne and says, “’m also totally down to be part of some kind of…crazy blue eyed visionary filmmaker sandwich. We could call Chris for old time’s sake?”

“I should probably be stopping this?” Phil says above him. Dan can tell from his voice that he’s definitely laughing. “How many glasses of champagne have you had?”

He appreciates being around Phil and PJ, some of the people who’ve seen him at his drunk and sluttiest. They’re the safest people to be around right now, with his loose lips and roving eyes. Honestly, they probably should have factored Drunk and Very Flirty Dan into things when they were planning the housewarming party.  He’s suddenly very glad that they cut the guest list before they’d started talking about BBC Radio 1 people. He could just see himself hitting on Grimmy and Phil having to deal with whatever Nick’s response was.

Dan hums and tilts his head back against Phil’s knee again, looking around the room at their friends and coworkers. “Enough to hit on Louise. D’you reckon Alfie and Zooey would let me have a go? Also, are we just not talking about the thing going on between Louise and Marcus? At least, the thing that should be going on.”

“We aren’t, because chemistry doesn’t equal sexual attraction.” Phil says like he always says when Dan tries to gossip about Louise and Marcus. He plucks Dan’s glass from his hand and standing. “Do you want more or do you want a break?”

“Shots!” Dan says. Beside him, PJ cheers a little.

Phil, who tells him no all the time but is easily charmed, doesn’t mention that this isn’t really a shots type of affair. Instead, he smiles at them, and wanders away. Dan watches him go, across the living area and over to the alcohol-covered counter, near where the first versions of their plushies watch the party from atop their fridge. When he gets tired of watching Phil (tracing from his shoulders down to his ridiculous waist), he scootches around to lean against PJ’s knees.

He tilts his head to look up at PJ upside down and says, very seriously, “We should make out.”

PJ, who’s drinking the bright blue cocktail Phil insisted on them making as the official housewarming drink, finishes the sip he’s taken and makes a contemplative noise. “Fairly sure Soph ruled that out after the last time, with the fun dip?”

Dan nods and sighs. “That’s fair. It’s probably pretty hard to get all that green shit out of the carpet. Do you think Phil would let me do body shots?”

PJ throws his head back and laughs. “No, Dan, I don’t think he would.”

Dan whines a little but settles against PJ.

They sit in silence for a moment before PJ says, “Hey. This is a nice place. You guys are doing good.”

Drunk and Very Flirty Dan doesn’t do well with feelings, so he nods and bites at his nails, spits out the little flecks of glitter that get in his mouth.

“It’s probably the happiest we’ve ever been,” Dan says. Drunk and Very Flirty Dan also tends to be Blithely Honest Dan. He doesn’t really wish he could muster up this sort of obnoxious flirtatiousness in his sobriety, but he wouldn’t mind being able to chat about his feelings so casually sometimes.  

“We can tell,” PJ says, sliding down to sit next to him on the floor. “We can all tell.”

Dan bursts into his dumb, wheezy giggle. “Is that your way of telling me our fans suspect something?”

PJ smirks over at him. “You invited a bunch of youtubers to your very adult home for a housewarming party. You might as well tweet them a wedding invite. Dan?”

Dan, who’d been winking lasciviously at a bewildered Joe Sugg, turns to look at him. “Haven’t you heard? Japan was our honeymoon. We’ve been married for years now, according to them.”

“And you still haven’t gotten me a ring.” Phil says, returning. He sits on the ottoman and very carefully hands them shot glasses of something dark, and sparkly. Dan has learned better than to question it when Phil produces sparkly foods out of nowhere. Instead, he tilts his head back, bracing against the burn of alcohol. It’s sweet, and mostly smooth and warms him all the way down.

“You’re my favorite,” Dan grins at Phil, who’s finished his own shot. “You’re totally getting blown after everyone leaves.”

Phil has endured Drunk and Very Flirty Dan more than anyone else on earth, and still somehow finds a reason to blush. He ducks his head and hehehes quietly. Dan considers if they could get away with disappearing from their own party for a few minutes. He doesn’t think he has the coordination to properly blow Phil, and that last shot hasn’t even hit him yet, but he’s could go for drunk makeouts with someone. Drunk and Very Flirty Dan appreciates the press of a warm body and a warm mouth and isn’t all that vexed about the owner. Sober Dan is generally chuffed to have a partner that takes this sort of behavior in stride and gamely directs him away from anyone that might take things more seriously than a bit of kissing.

“Who else is on this list?” PJ asks beside him, throwing an arm around Dan’s shoulders and leaning against him heavily. Dan appreciates the indication that he’s not the only one a little wasted in their little trio. Then he appreciates how nice PJ’s arm feels against his.

“There’s no list.” Phil says.

“Have you been working out?” Dan asks at the same time, pressing back against PJ’s arm and doing a little shimmy.

PJ looks between the two of them, not certain who to respond to first. Dan smolders at him, pursing his lips a little. PJ laughs a little and turns to Phil.

“There’s no list?” he asks.

“No,” Phil says, sliding off the ottoman to sit on the floor with them. Dan throws his outstretched legs into Phil’s lap and tilts his head onto PJ’s shoulder. “We just sort of…talk it out.”

From this angle he can listen to both of them and watch the makeshift dancefloor that had been made out of a cleared out area of their living room. The string lights (Dan’s aesthetic insistence) turned everything dim and warm and slightly golden and most of his favorite people in the world were in this room. If he could get someone to make out with him (and maybe a slice of pizza) this would be the actual best moment of his life.

“D’you think Marcus would be up for it?” Dan asks, graciously letting Phil and PJ in on his thought process.  “He did send me that one text.”

“On a dare from Louise,” Phil points out, sipping from his own champagne. He’s mostly sober, which is annoying. If Phil was as drunk as Dan, he’d probably agree to go make in a coat closet or something. Or their bedroom, since they’re adults or whatever. Or hell, even the guest bedroom. Drunk Phil is always up for it, even if he’s no match for Dan’s whirlwind of sex.

“We have so many rooms to bang in,” Dan says, grinning at Phil. “And I’m a whirlwind of sex.”

“You’ve gotta christen them all,” PJ, a true friend, agrees. Dan pats his thigh amicably. Then he squeezes a little for good measure. With his other hand he sets his shotglass down and pets the carpet. It’s a nice, good texture. He sort of wouldn’t mind laying down on it.

“We’re not starting now,” Phil says, because he knows Dan too well.

Dan rolls his eyes and scoffs. “Of course not. We’re adults, who take care of their guests and don’t go bang in the coat closet, no matter how fun it would be. We’ll wait til they leave.”

“That’s probably not very long now,” PJ says, looking at his watch. “

Dan hums another little noise, then keeps humming, along with the music. He’s drunk, and a little tired, and maybe just having pizza and a few people over would have been a better housewarming. He rolls his head on PJ’s shoulder so he can look at Phil, who’s bopping along to the music, lost in his own world.

“We’re those losers in the corner at our own party,” Dan says, smiling at Phil. “Plus PJ.”

“We are,” Phil says, smiling back at him. “Plus PJ.”

“Not quite sure how I feel about this addendum,” PJ adds. “Oh, people are going for the coat closet. Do you want me to play good host with Phil while you sit here and be drunk.”

Dan, who’s eye closed at some point during PJ’s sentence, moans tiredly, and nods. “You’re at the top of me and Phil’s list now, tiger.”

“There is no list,” Phil says. PJ laughs and rearranges Dan to lean against the couch. Dan slits his eyes to watch them both climb to their feet and head to the door to tell people goodbye.

Dan must fall asleep for a few minutes, because when he blinks again, the apartment is empty of most people. Someone has turned on the overhead light in the kitchen, brightening the place up a bit, and Phil and PJ are at the door, seeing the last stragglers out.

“Hey,” Phil says, coming over to sit next to him on the floor, crowding in close. His wraps cool fingers around Dan’s.  “Bed?”

“Bed,” Dan says, and doesn’t move. “Is PJ coming with us? I haven’t seduced anybody yet. Drunk and Very Flirty Dan will be so disappointed.”

“Pretty sure you’re still drunk, mate.” PJ crouches down on his other side. “Still flirty?”

“I’ve definitely had this dream before,” Dan tells him. Phil laughs.

PJ grins and leans forward, pressing his mouth to Dan’s. PJ’s mouth is warm, and a little sticky from his drinks and he smells familiar, and comforting. Beside him Phil squeezes Dan’s hand. Dan sighs into the kiss, feels PJ’s mouth turn upward. Dan really, really loves kissing. They separate quietly and Dan darts forward to peck PJ’s mouth once more, mischievous. PJ’s grinning at him when he pulls back.

“Night, lads,” PJ says standing up. “Got a ladyfriend to get back to.”

Dan grins at him and waves, closes his eyes again. “Drunk and Very Flirty Dan hopes you know that this can only every be a physical thing. His heart belongs to someone else.”

“Tired and Happily Dating Someone Else PJ appreciates that,” PJ says, sounding far away.

Dan listens to the soft murmur of PJ and Phil say goodbye to each other, is pretty certain he hears the soft sound of mouths meeting, and lets himself drift on drunken exhaustion until Phil’s tugging on his hands, encouraging him to stand up.

Dan yawns again and follow Phil down the hallway to their bedroom, eyes still mostly closed. They shuffle through nighttime routines and Dan groans when he finally lays down in their bed, relieved.

“Phil,” he says in the direction of their bathroom. Phil pokes his head out of the door, continues brushing his teeth.

Dan pushes himself up. “Phil, I’m too tired to make it good. I’ll just lie here and you do what you have to do.”

Phil rolls his eyes and ducks back into the bathroom. Dan listens to him spit and rinse, fighting off sleep. His head feels heavy and a little cotton-y and he can feel the oncoming cringe if he thinks too hard about some of the things he’s said tonight.

The bed dips as Phil bounces on to it and scoots closer.

“Good night?” Phil asks.

“Only groped one person mildly inappropriately, house is sufficiently warmed and I got to kiss someone!” Dan says, and cheers weakly.

“You did,” Phil says, fondness warming his voice.

“Are we going to do it now?” Dan asks, turning to look at Phil. “Because I’m only gonna be this drunk for a few more minutes. Then, first stop, Hangover Town.”

“We’ll try in the morning,” Phil says, tugging him closer.

Dan throws an arm across Phil and presses his fingers into Phil’s skin a little, just to feel the solidness of him. Tomorrow morning, he’ll read through the mocking texts definitely waiting on him from PJ and Louise at least and maybe send a few winking emojis and pineapples to Caspar. Tonight, he’s happy to ride the soft waves of drunkenness, absorbing Phil’s warmth and tangling their limbs together.

“It was a good night,” Dan confirms, and closes his eyes.

[starsinursa]

Shout-out to @saminzat for tagging me! Like I needed an excuse to waste time. ;)

LAST

1) Drink:  Coffee... it’s like 10 p.m. at night, but I’m trying to stay awake to finish some work from the office (and yet I’m on tumblr doing this quiz instead, oops).

2) Phone call: A coworker called me so I’d have her new phone number.

3) Text message:  “FYI, they don’t give you the money right back, you have to wait 4 - 6  WEEKS for a check in the mail, uggggh”. I bailed the same coworker out of jail about three months ago and went to the city municipal court today to get the bail money back... turns out things aren’t that simple.

4) Song listened to:  Umm...so I’ve been listening to the Moana soundtrack pretty much non-stop for the last week. :D

5) Time you cried:  A couple of weeks ago, reading the fic “Cursed or Not” for the first time (hey, you get to chapter 18 and try not to ugly cry, okay?).

HAVE YOU EVER

6) Dated somebody twice:  Yep. Good ol’ high school.

7) Been cheated on:  Not that I know of.

8) Kissed someone and regretted it:  Yep. Good ol’ college.

9) Lost someone special:  Yes, a couple of times.

10) Been depressed:  Yep, special shout-out to my Prozac and Wellbutrin, love you guys. ;)

11) Gotten drunk and puked:  Yes, a few times, unfortunately. Again, good ol’ college (although I can’t use that excuse for the last time because I had already graduated... to whomever had to clean out that train car up in Minneapolis, MN, about 2.5 years ago: I am so, so sorry, I’ve learned my lesson about taking it easy on the Everclear, you have every right to hate me).

THREE FAVOURITE COLOURS

12) Green

13) Purple

14) Blue

IN THE LAST YEAR YOU HAVE YOU

15) Made new friends:  Kind of? Do work friends count? 

16) Fallen out of love:  Nah, gotta be in love for that

17) Laughed until you cried:  Yes, most recently was while watching “Impractical Jokers” with my aunt (they took a guy who is terrified of cats and made him teach an improv “how to bond with your cat” class, okay, I found it hilarious as a cat-owner).

18) Found out someone was gossiping about you:  Yeah, there’s a lot of gossip about everyone at my second job. Look, I’m sorry I go through all the water bottles, okay? I drink a lot of water...

19) Met someone who changed your life:  Not anyone specific in the last year that I can think of...

20) Found out who your true friends are: Meh. I’ve always kinda known.

21) Kissed someone on your Facebook list:  Nah

HOW MANY/MUCH

22) Facebook friends:  256

23) Pets:  Two! One dog, one cat, the best of both worlds.

24) Want to change your name:  Nah, I like my name.

WHAT

25) Did I get for my birthday:  Books, I always ask for books.

26) Time I woke up:  Around 8:30 a.m. this morning

27) Were you doing at midnight: Probably surfing tumblr, tbh, I am sadly predictable

28) Can’t you wait for: MY VACATION THIS NEXT WEEK

29) Was the last time you saw your mom:  A couple of weeks ago when I went home for a dentist appointment

30) Is something you wish you could change about your life:  I need to buckle down and really focus on paying off a couple of bills. It helps having a second job, but I’m just so impatient.

31) Are you listening to right now:  Nothing at the mo

32) Gets on your nerves:  Whiners. Don’t get me wrong, I love to bitch and complain as much as the next person, but people who blame the world/ everyone else for their problems? Just....yeah.

33) Talked to a person named Tom:  ...this question doesn’t make any sense. “What - talked to a person named Tom”? Also, no, I know several Tims, but no Toms.

34) Is your most visited website:  Pffft, tumblr, of course, is that even a real question

35) Elementary school/primary school:  [Name of my hometown] Elementary School

36) High School:  [Name of my hometown] Jr./ Sr. High School

37) College:  I’ve already mentioned in a couple of posts where I went to college, so I guess I’ll just say it: Kansas State University. EMAW!

38) Hair colour:  Dark brown

39) Long/short hair:  Long! It’s currently the longest it’s ever been in my entire life, I’m so excited (although holy shit, I shed a lot).

40) Crush:  Nah, not for a while. I creeped on a cute security guard a few months ago, but he turned out to be a jerk with a classic “crazy ex-girlfriend” (I put that part in quotation marks because I have no idea if she’s actually ‘crazy’ but he kept insisting she was...which is, just, y’know, a red flag on his part).

41) Do you like about yourself:  I’m actually pretty fond of my hair now, after a lifelong love/hate relationship. I also like to think I’m okay at singing sometimes.

42) Piercings: None at the moment, actually

43) Blood type: A+

44) Nickname: My family has always called me “Foo” (as in, “little bunny foo-foo”)

45) Relationship status:  Single, ayyyyy

46) Zodiac: Leo (pffft, but not really)

47) Pronouns: She/her

48) Favourite show: Supernatural (of course!), Psych, Once Upon a Time, Firefly, Scrubs, Nikita, Game of Thrones

49) Tattoos: None. I’m too fickle, I’d get one and then change my mind two weeks later.

50) Left or right handed: Right

FIRST

51) Surgery:  I had my tonsils out when I was 17 thanks to multiple bouts with strep throat. Oh my god, never wait until you’re that old to get your tonsils removed, it was absolute hell. 

52) Piercings: My ears. If we’re talking unusual piercings, I had a “nape piercing” for a while in high school.

53) Best friend:  Probably my cousin Kayla, since we grew up together

54) Sport:  I played softball for several years as a kid, until I got a bloody nose when the ball hit me in the face. Then I had to quit because I was gun-shy. To this day, I’m still afraid of balls flying at my face (hehehe).

55) Vacation:  I visited my dad in San Diego, CA for a week when I was ten years old

56) Pair of shoes:  First pair of shoes? I don’t know, I was a baby. Probably some over-priced cutesy pair that never even got any use because I was a baby.

RIGHT NOW

57) Eating: Spicy Doritos

58) Drinking:  Still drinking coffee

59) I am about to:  Sort through my tumblr “Saved Drafts” and add tags for everything, then try to get some writing done

60) Listening to:  Nothing at the mo (this is the same question at #31?)

61) Waiting for:  Saturday when I leave for vacation! *o*

62) Want to see: Honestly can’t think of anything. I’d like to watch Moana again but it’s not on DVD yet?

63) Want to get married:  Sure, someday

64) Career:  Human services/ social work-ish? Basically, I work at a non-profit agency helping adults with developmental/ intellectual disabilities to get/ maintain services. Oh, and I also have a part-time job at an adult store. Gotta make ends meet, y’know.

WHICH IS BETTER

65) Hugs/kisses:  Really depends on who they’re from. Probably hugs for the most part. :)

66) Lips/eyes: Aaagh, I don’t know... I love gorgeous eyes, but I also love me some tasty lips... y’know what, I’m gonna go with lips. Yep.

67) Taller/shorter:  Taller

68) Younger/older: Older

69) Romantic/spontaneous:  I can be romantic when I have someone to be romantic for, but I’m not the most spontaneous. :D Like, let’s just stick to the PLAN, okay?

70) Nice arms/nice stomach: Arms. I like squishy cuddly tummies anyways.

71) Sensitive/loud: ...I don’t know. Sensitive, I guess, because being around loud people wears me out pretty quickly. But sensitivity needs to have limits too...

72) Hookup/relationship:  Relationship. Been there, done the hook-up thing, not worth it. Good ol’ college.

73) Troublemaker/hesitant: At this point in my life, I’d say hesitant. Trouble-making was fun in the past, but, like, I’ve got an actual career now that I could lose if I go around trouble-making/ hanging out with trouble-makers.

HAVE YOU EVER

74) Kissed a stranger:  So, so many times. Good ol’ college.

75) Drank hard liquor:  Yep. Still love me some vodka. It just mixes with everything, y’know?

76) Lost glasses/contact lenses:  Contact lenses, yes, but luckily I’ve never lost a pair of glasses

77) Turned someone down:  Yes. I hate doing that. I’m a horrible, cowardly person who would rather “ghost” someone than have to deal with an uncomfortable confrontation. 

78) Canoodling on a first date:  Depends on the definition of “canoodling”. Are we talking cuddling or snuggling up during a movie? Sure. Making out? Maaaybe, depends. No copping a feel on the first date though, c’mon now.

79) Broken someone’s heart:  Yes. Breaking up with someone in high school is intense. 

80) Had your own heart broken:  Kind of, not really? The only person I legitimately had feelings for, I never told them how I felt, so they never really had the opportunity to break my heart but it hurt like hell anyways. Have I mentioned I’m a cowardly piece of shit? :D I mean, that was like 10 years ago in high school, but I haven’t changed that much.

81) Been arrested:  No, thank goodness. There were a couple of close calls during my partying days, I’ve definitely been luckier than I probably deserve.

82) Cried when someone died:  Yes. Doesn’t happen often, luckily.

83) Fallen for a friend: Not really? Had crushes on friends, had friends-with-benefits, yes, but never technically “fallen for” a friend.

DO YOU BELIEVE IN

84) Yourself: Depends on what we’re talking about here. In general, yeah, I like to think I do okay...

85) Miracles:  Ehhh, I can’t decide. It’s a wonderful thought but I’m also kind of a pessimist realist. You know what they say: “hope for the best but prepare for the worst”.

86) Santa Clause:  Not for many, many years

87) Kisses on a first date: Sure! End-of-the-date kisses are sweet.

88) Angels:  I...think so. 

89) Love at first sight:  I don’t know? It’s a wonderful thought but I’m just not sure. Maybe not love at first sight, per se, but I think there are definitely people out there that you can just tell right away they’re going to be special to you.

OTHER

90) Best friend’s name: None, at the mo

91) Eye colour: Brown

92) Favourite movie:  That’s a tough one... I think it depends on my mood. Do I want to laugh? Something trashy like “Sorority Boys”. Do I want to cry? Probably something steeped in existential crisis like “A.I.”. Do I want a feel-good adventure with talking animals? “Homeward Bound”.

Holy crap, that took like 1.5 hours. Anyone need an excuse to waste some time/ procrastinate/ be distracted? Tagging @magnificent-winged-beast, @helianthus21, @destielmixtape, @beesandangelkisses, @emotionally-compromised-idiot, @castielsgracex, @apritelleorai, @honeybee-and-batman, @sunshine-hunters, @waaaaaayward-assbutt, @cool-fallen-angel , and anyone else who wants to do it. :)