#i paid $8 for this outfit i only ( slightly ) regret it

[deadn30n]

Happy Valentine's day 💌 It's time to unwrap your present 🎁💋 @goldenfists / @goddessrisen / @tealbeats / @withinchains / @liightbringr / @nameaprice / @florspinae / @elemosyna 💕

[writersrealmbts]

If You Have Half a Brain

Description: Part of the summer #btswritingbingo, hosted by @bangtanwritingbingo! For the Pina Coladas prompt. You’ve been a bit down on your luck, until one of your customers, who is definitely drunk, strikes up a conversation with you and offers you a job. 

Warnings: Mentions of death, drunken antics (mild), mild language, mentions of blood/injuries (very briefly)

Posted: 06/04/2021

Tags: Hoseok x reader, business au, 

Slice of Life/Angst/moments of fluff: 11,698 words

A/N: I think it’s been over a month since I posted a story, so here’s over 10k words. Enjoy! Thanks to @kerikaaria​ for beta reading this

“Sir, you ordered a virgin.”

“Whoa, no! I didn’t even know that this was that kind of place, I mean, kudos on the confidence and I mean that in the best way because you shouldn’t be ashamed—“

“Your drink,” you interrupted, rolling your eyes. “It’s non-alcoholic. You ordered a virgin drink.”

“What? No I didn’t, I ordered a pina colada!”

“No, our menu doesn’t offer pina coladas. What you ordered was our Niño colada, which is from our non-alcoholic menu. I apologize for any inconvenience, but if this is you with a little bit of alcohol, then I think you should stick to sobriety.”

He stared at you, slack-jawed and blinking. “Why don’t you have pina coladas?”

You sighed. “We don’t stock rum.”

He made a choked sound. “The…rum…is gone?”

“Yes. The rum is gone.” You had a sinking feeling that you knew exactly what he was going to say.

“Why is the rum always gone?!” He exclaimed, flopping onto the table.

“From your behavior, I’m going to assume you’ve consumed every last drop of it, Captain Sparrow,” You replied dryly. Well, your boss was right. You were not cut out for this job. “Now, if you’re not going to order something else, I’m going to go turn in my apron and start job hunting again.”

“Wait! Wait! Do you like piña coladas?” He asked, catching the pocket of your apron.

“I swear to God, if the next words out of your mouth are anything along the lines of ‘and getting caught in the rain’ I will murder you without regret.”

His teeth clicked shut. His eyes darted over your face. “But do you?”

You took a deep breath. “I can’t stand coconut.”

“You…don’t like…coconut?” He looked horrified. “Then…coconut chicken?”

“Ew.”

“Coconut ice cream?”

“Waste of sugar and time, a lot like this conversation. I don’t like coconut. I hate it when people cook in coconut oil because saying it’s tasteless is Bull.” You crossed your arms. “New drink or what?”

He stared at you for a while, then smiled softly. “You’re too good for this job, anyway. You should work for me.”

“Excuse me?”

“Come work for me.”

“Repeating that doesn’t tell me what you’re saying.”

“I own a company. I need someone who can deal with trash like me and keep them away from me. You do not have to be polite to the trash either.” He leaned his chin on a propped-up fist. “Your job would quite honestly be saying what was on your mind and telling me and anyone else off.” He looked and sounded surprisingly sober compared to before.

“Please tell me you didn’t use piña coladas to test a potential hire.”

He grinned. “Not intentionally.”

I folded your arms, trying to gauge whether or not he was being serious. “You’re not saying this because you’re drunk, are you?”

“I’m not drunk!” He argued, eyes wide. “I’ve only had one glass of wine!”

You cringed. “At least tell me it was a large one.”

“N-not particularly.”

“Oh dude, either your acting is pretty on point, or you’re a serious lightweight and should stick to the non-alcoholic menu.” You shook your head.

His already flushed cheeks turned more red. “Wha—“ he huffed. “Do you want the job or not?”

You considered it, a little surprised you were even considering it, and shrugged. “Not sure I believe you still.”

He huffed and fumbled to pull out his wallet, fumbled more, then handed you a business card. “That’s me. Call or show up or anything. My personal cards are like golden tickets.”

You took the card warily.

The side of the cards facing you had a phone number in shimmering gold lettering, and the other side looked like a splash of summer colors—Bold black lettering spelling out his name and the name of the company.

“Hoseok Jung, CEO of HopeWorld Incorporated,” you read aloud, a little…skeptical. “If you are this person, what the heck do you want me for?”

“Honestly…I need someone sensible who won’t just try to stay on my good side. I need someone who will risk their job to threaten anyone that is being ridiculous with murder. I’m bad at that. I need a spiky person cause I’m just…I have things I’m strong on, but there are times when I just need someone to say things like they are. No bull.”

“And based on our interactions here, you think that’s me?”

He nodded. “I only played up the antics a bit.”

“Do you often hire your waitresses?”

He grinned. “No, but I have found most of my best people by chance. One other waiter, but I knew him before.”

“Your best people?”

“You’ve heard of my company?”

“Who hasn’t?”

“Then you’ve heard the names Suga, RM, and V.”

You paused. “Yes.”

“Suga and I met at a club. RM and I met in a museum, and I met V when I was at an animal shelter.” He shrugged. “We had a good rapport. I offered them jobs. My friends over there are also part of my inner circle. It would have been better if you liked piña coladas, but you should still be okay with them.”

You stared over to where his friends were goofing off in the pool. Those idiot men were part of the inner circle of one of the biggest companies ever? The company that….

Two screeched as they went into the water, losing the game of chicken.

“They are part of your brain trust? Is the one even old enough for alcohol?”

“Yeah, he just tends to pick people up when he’s buzzed.”

“So, scandal prone.”

“No, no, I mean physically lift them. Usually just us. He’s not really a social person. Just us.”

“Ah.” You weren’t sure what to make of that.

“Actually—“

“Y/n! I’m not paying you to stand around!”

“With all due respect, sir, I’m done after I finish discussing our menu with this gentleman, Sir.” You called back, then turned to Hoseok. “How much would I be paid?”

“To start...how about $16 an hour?”

You stared at him. “$16 an hour?”

“Plus benefits, we have an excellent benefits program.”

“$16 an hour?” You repeated, a little shocked and numb. Plus benefits, even if you only worked there for a week, you’d be able to cover all of your expenses.

“Alright, okay, fine, $18 an hour—but no more than that until we know if it will work out. Then we can discuss raises. Deal?” He stuck his hand out.

You considered it for a moment, then shook his hand. “Right. Okay. When do I start?”

“Tomorrow, 8 a.m.”

You nodded. “Business dress?”

He shrugged, “If you like. Just dress nicely.”

You nodded. “Fine. Okay. See you then. I have a job to quit.”

He nodded with a smile. “I look forward to working with you.”

———

If you had thought that your means of obtaining this job had been strange, nothing had prepared you for your first day working there.

You had dressed well, wearing your favorite interview outfit because it was the nicest outfit you owned and you would be shopping later today so you knew what you needed to buy.

You entered the sleek looking building, and went to the reception desk. “Hello, I was told to come in today.” You pulled out the business card and showed it to the secretary.

Her eyes widened. “Whoa. You met Mr. Jung?”

“Uhm, yes. Yes I did. And he told me to come in today, at eight.”

“Right, okay, um, let me get you a temporary I.D.so you can get around today, and you’ll have to talk to H.R. later about your permanent one. Take this, and then head up to the top floor, he’ll want you to report straight to his office. At least, that’s what protocol states.”

You nodded, absorbing the information easily. “Top floor, his office, report to HR later for a permanent ID. Return this at the end of the day?”

“Yes, thank you, and good luck on your first day!” She practically sang, going back to her computer.

You slid the ID necklace over your head and went straight for the elevator, hitting the button for the top floor.

The way she spoke was almost like she had never met the CEO, which seemed unlikely to you, but maybe you were just misreading it.

The top floor was as quiet as the rest of the building, and you had a feeling most employees didn’t start until 9. But there was faint music coming from the biggest office—the CEO’s office.

You took a breath to steady yourself and then knocked on the door.

“Come on in, y/n!”

You shook your head slightly and did as told, walking into the office.

Entering the building, you had been pleasantly surprised by the way everything seemed light and airy, with bright splashes of color in appropriate amounts in the appropriate places, making it feel less like an office and more of a...you weren’t sure what it felt like, but it felt nicer than an office.

Entering Hoseok Jung’s office had a similar effect. There were knickknacks, but they weren’t overwhelming, and splashes of color were all throughout the room, but was balanced by a sort of modern elegance of his sleek office furniture and the immense natural lighting.

“Do you like it?”

You considered it all. “It’s not to my taste, but it is well balanced and I can appreciate the aesthetic.”

He grinned. “See, you’re already doing better.”

“The receptionist acts like she’s never seen you before.”

“Oh, well, most people only see J-Hope, one of the senior workers who reports directly to Mr. Jung. That’s how I got into the business to take it over from my father.” He shrugged. “Eventually, they’ll find out that J-Hope is me, but for now, J-Hope is well-liked. My ‘brain trust’ as you called them, will be here in about half an hour, which gives us time. Come on, I’ll show you to your office. Remember, it’s not your job to make friends, it’s your job to call things as you see them.”

You shrugged. “And if that means holding my tongue?”

“Then I trust you to say something later, when you deem the time to be right.”

“You know this is crazy, right?”

He grinned. “I know that you think it’s crazy, but I’m glad you’re telling me.”

You shook your head as you followed him out, noting that he wasn’t wearing a full suit. More like slacks and a shirt that wasn’t a button-up, but also wasn’t a plain t-shirt? Very loose-fitting, possibly a few sizes too big. His slacks weren't even slack, not really. Just grey, loose-fitting pants.

“You don’t dress much like a CEO.”

He chuckled. “I know. Jimin tells me that all the time, trust me, I do when I have to. But J-Hope likes loose clothing.”

You shook your head a bit.

“This will be your office.”

“It’s right next to yours.”

“Well, you are going to be my left-hand person. Left hand office.”

You followed him into the office that was way too good to be true.

“Obviously you can decorate it as you like, outside of the desk. The desk chair you get to choose from a magazine that we use for office supplies. We also ask that you don’t break any walls or windows.”

“I have a balcony,” you breathed.

“Yeah. There’s actually a door out there that connects our balconies, my side is pretty much never locked, but you can lock your side as well.”

“Like in hotels.”

“Yes.”

“So, if I'm your left, who’s your right?”

“Suga. Yoongi. You’ll like him, I think.” He picked up a random sticky note, looking amused. “Last guy didn’t clean out very well, sorry.”

“Shouldn’t a janitor have made it in here since?”

He paused. “Oh. Yes.”

“Which makes me wonder when the last time anything up here has been cleaned.” You ran a finger over the desk, nose wrinkling in disgust at the dust on your fingers.

Hoseok’s eyes widened. “Oh no. Oh no no no.”

“I need to wash my hands,” You said, feeling a little contaminated. “Bathrooms.”

“This way.”

The bathrooms on the top floor were actual bathrooms, as in, one toilet and sink per room instead of the public bathroom style. There were three of them, mostly the same size, but one also had a larger vanity area with drawers under it.

“Oh, sorry, didn’t mean to follow you in, but this bathroom is one that we usually keep locked, so if you want to keep makeup or other things in here, no one uses the third drawer over right now.” He tapped it. “You’ll be getting a key to it later today, so you can put it in later if you need to.”

You nodded, wrinkling your nose at the smell of the soap. “Oh, you’re kidding me. Piña colada soap?”

He chuckled, scratching his neck. “You can also bring in your own soap. Yoongi does. He just hasn’t replaced his yet.”

You shook your head. “Right.”

“If it helps, it’s only that during the summer.”

“What is it in winter? Eggnog?”

He shook his head. “Cinnamon rolls.”

“Are you all trying to psychologically torture yourselves?” You asked, drying your hands. “Piña coladas when you have to work, cinnamon rolls to make yourself hungry….”

Hoseok shrugged.

You sighed. “Alright. Where to now?”

“Morning meeting.” He waved for you to follow him, and led the way down to a conference room. “Jimin and Tae bring coffee and pastries and we go over our agendas and projects. Today that will include introducing you. I do have one thing to ask, and it might be inappropriate so if it is you can just hit me—“

“Or you could just not ask it.”

He hesitated, then nodded. “Right. Yeah.”

You helped straighten the chairs, seeing the frown on his face at how disheveled the room was. “So, what will I be doing today, besides accompanying you to fire the janitor.”

He cringed. “Well, tour the company. Stop by HR. Meet the security team. Talk to the janitorial staff and threaten firing them to improve their work ethic. Then if that doesn’t work, yes, you will be there to help me fire people.”

“Sounds good. I’ll be the bad guy. You keep your J-Hope persona.” You sighed. “Really? No one caught onto you being the CEO with the name J-Hope?”

He just grinned again. “Best disguise is right under your nose.”

“The best disguise is an effective one that actually exists.”

“I’m glad I met you,” He responded with a light laugh.

“I’ve been criticizing you since I arrived.” You actually felt guilty about that, but only slightly. You weren’t about to lose sleep over it.

He just smiled. “You’ve been honest. I…I really missed honesty.”

“Your inner circle aren’t honest?”

“They are…but they’re…it’s different. Sometimes you need to shake things up. I think we all need shaking up.”

You frowned. “Okay. Level with me: what happened?”

He frowned. “What do you mean?”

“What happened to make you think that things need to be shaken up?”

His face relaxed, eyes seeming to glaze as they shifted to the meeting table. “I…uh, I lost someone I cared about. You know that cruise ship disaster?”

You nodded. “HopeWorld donated a whole lot of money to cover the bills of those injured, and help cover funeral bills for others. Some people wondered if you guys had some sort of stock in the cruise ship or had been involved in the explosion, but you were just being kind. Plus by helping them out financially they could stand up to the cruise company.”

He shrugged, but also nodded. “And I needed a reason to be there. Looking.”

“Girlfriend or boyfriend?”

He choked out a laugh. “Yeah. And my sister and her husband. And my parents. I was supposed to join them at a different port.”

You felt like you’d been sucker-punched. “Oh my God.”

“Didn’t lose all of them. My dad is still in the hospital, Mom is home but she visits him everyday.” He rubbed his neck. “My sister's husband went back to work just a week ago, and he’s not having an easy time of it, but he’s pushing on. My sister hasn’t woken up yet, but we’re still hopeful. I hope she wakes up soon. She’s the other person I always relied on to be honest with me.”

You slowly nodded. “And your…significant other?”

“Idiot died. One of the lifeboats got stuck on release. Climbed out and cut the rope. Snapped back.” He shrugged again.

“Could have been worse,” You murmured, clenching a fist. You knew that description. You gave that description.

“Ok, this is one time when maybe you shouldn’t be honest.” He rubbed his forehead.

“Hey, my step-dad died because he thought he could swallow a golf ball and decided to try when no one was home. My younger brother tail-gated a semi. My father died from a sliver after saving eight school-age children.” You shrugged. “There are all sorts of ways to go out of this world. Doing the right thing…the heroic thing, that counts for a lot in my book. But there is such a thing as stupidly heroic.”

He stared at you wide-eyed. “A…golf ball?”

You shrugged. “I believe I implied that he wasn’t intelligent.”

Hoseok snorted and then started laughing. “I-I’m sorry!”

You smiled. “Good. Your brain trust will be here soon.”

“Did he…did he really…?”

“It was a little more complicated, and there was booze involved, but essentially, yes.”

“That’s terrible.”

“Yeah.”

“Don’t sound so heartbroken.”

You shrugged. “Life goes on.”

“What does it go on from?” A new voice asked.

You turned to see one of the boys from the pool yesterday.

He looked you up and down, and offered a slight smile and his hand. “Hey. You must be the waitress that Hobi got so excited about hiring yesterday. I’m Taehyung, or, as the media knows me, V.”

You shook his hand. “Y/n. Nice to meet you.”

“Do you like Pina Coladas?” Taehyung asked, setting the box of what you assumed were pastries on the table.

“No.”

He froze a bit. “Really?”

“Really.”

“But...why? Wait...oh no...you don’t like them?” He stared at the box of pastries.

You looked at the box. “Let me guess, non-alcoholic pina colada donuts.”

“We don’t normally get them, I just saw them and I thought it’d be fun….” He looked completely dejected. “I’m so sorry.”

“It’s okay. I ate breakfast anyway. I had an omelet, and I have a chocolate muffin in my packed lunch in my office. So, if you would like, I can get that and you can pretend you got it specially for me because I got it from the same shop.”

He gasped. “Their chocolate muffins are amazing.”

“Do you want me to pretend?”

He considered it a moment.

“He doesn’t want everyone to be eating and not you,” Hoseok chuckled. “He’s sweet like that.”

You nodded. “Did the door to my office get locked?”

Hoseok shook his head. “I left it open so that you could get in and out without your keys, and so we could send a janitor in after the meeting. Maybe put your things in our breakroom for now.”

You nodded sharply.

“I’ll get it, if that’s okay with you?” Taehyung said.

You shrugged. “Whatever floats your boat.”

He bounced a bit as he raced out.

“Good job, offering to lie on your first day.” Hoseok looked amused.

“He looked like a kicked puppy. I’m honest, not abusive and heartless. Besides, it’s more to make him feel good. Most people would figure it out, right away.”

Hoseok nodded. “I guess so.”

“It doesn’t breach my not-yet-existing contract to lie, does it?”

He shook his head. “No. It doesn’t.”

Both of you fell quiet as Taehyung came back and slipped the muffin into the box of donuts (carefully).

Then several men arrived at about the same time.

“Hi, y/n! I’m Jimin, and I wasn’t sure what you liked so I got you a chocolate crème frappuccino. Is that okay?”

You nodded, smiling. “Sounds good. Thank you.” You took the cup and studied where they were sitting before taking a seat yourself--at the left hand of Hoseok--when he indicated for you to sit there.

“For the future, what do you normally drink?”

“This,” You answered, smiling. “I try to limit my caffeine intake.”

“Great, I’ll add it to my list and we can discuss alternatives later.” Jimin opened the donut box. “Tae, what have you done?”

“Pina colada donuts,” Tae answered, grinning. “And a muffin for y/n.”

Half of the boys had already grabbed a donut, or were in the process of doing so, but all seemed to freeze a bit.

“Why a muffin for y/n?”

“I don’t like coconut,” You answered, shrugging.

“Wait...at all?” One of them asked, eyes wide.

You sighed. “Nope. That is possible, you know. Just like I’m sure the odds are in my favor that at least one of you doesn’t like seafood. One of you probably doesn’t like coffee, one of you probably doesn’t like tea, and a few of you probably don’t like mint ice-cream.”

They all seemed to be surprised and yet also guilty.

“Well….”

One huffed. “Why did you hire her again? She doesn’t even like pina coladas.”

“Not everyone does,” Hoseok replied easily. “Shall we start our morning download?”

You studied the others as they dug into their donuts, wondering where the odd obsession with pina coladas came from--not for the first time. But they weren’t the only people you’d ever met with the obsession, and you doubted they would be the last.

“Besides, it can’t hurt us to look at things other than pina coladas.”

“Please,” One of them grumbled. “I don’t want to get sick of them.”

“Fine. Then let me ask this,” the huffy one asked. “Y/n, what is your beverage of choice?”

You met his gaze evenly, calculating all of the answers he could expect and all of the answers you could give him. But one stuck out as particularly perturbing for someone like him and a situation like this.

You leaned forward, smiled slightly, and answered, “Water.”

His eyes widened and he spluttered. “Water?”

“Water,” You confirmed cheerfully. “If I have to choose anything, I choose water.”

“Great, you can be the designated driver,” Taehyung joked, amusement sparkling in his eyes.

Huffy sat down, looking like he lost five years off of his life. “No way can we do a water theme….”

“If we could get back to what we’re being paid to be here for, that’d be great,” You said, in a tone that was too sweet to be honest.

Hoseok chuckled a little. “Right. Y/n is here to keep things...possible and practical. Her job is to be bluntly and brutally honest about things. After she gets a feel for this place, I’m sure she’ll feel more comfortable giving us all a piece of her mind. She’ll be shadowing me as J-Hope, and I’m not going to announce her job title for a while.”

“Because you don’t know what to call my job?”

“Pretty much. Anyway, as you guys know, we’re...running a little thin right now, and that’s on me. We’re going to be tightening up the ship, and making sure we’re running properly. Jimin, I need finances from across the company. Tae, I need all of the reports from HR. Jin and Jungkook, I want a list and summary of all of the projects we’re working on right now. Yoongi and Namjoon: keep working on that one project. Anything I need to know right now?”

“We have that event tomorrow, with the food trucks, and we need to decide on the judges.”

“Okay, so, we let everyone who wants to judge put their name on a list, then we’ll draw names from a hat. Jimin’s on the judgement panel as well.”

“I am?”

“You’ll eat anything, the rest of us are too picky. And Jungkook will be filming.” Hoseok made a couple of notes. “I have to talk to our janitorial staff, and y/n will be with me. They haven’t been cleaning up here like they’re supposed to. Y/n’s office was disgusting, and this room was a mess.”

“Uh oh. Firing anyone?”

“He wants to see if talking to them will fix the issue first,” You said dryly. “Which, in my experience, is a waste of time. There’s always someone dragging their feet and I bet if we looked through the HR reports, or even sent me in under cover for a few hours, we’d be able to pinpoint the weak link and remove it from the chain.”

“She’s got a point. I could take her down and tell them she’s doing some work in each department. We’ve done that before, for people who were actually working for one of the departments.” Jimin clicked his pen a couple of times.

Hoseok considered it a moment while he worked on a bite of his donut, then nodded. “Alright. Then we’ll do that. You might need different clothing. If it takes more than a couple of hours, don’t worry about it. If this works, we’ll put you in different departments as though you were experiencing everything. Because I think we need a spy in the HR department as well. Plus anything you find about employee welfare and happiness, that’s always a good thing. We’ll say you’re one of Jimin’s random hires. Get it done.”

Jimin nodded, then checked you over. “They’ll give her a uniform, so we don’t need to worry about her clothing. Maybe just fix your hair so that you look more like ‘random girl’ instead of  ‘sophisticated lady’.”

“Did you just call me a lady?”

“Have you seen yourself?” Jimin shrugged.

“Anyway, finish things here, then y/n dress down and we’ll discuss your work later today. You’ll eat lunch with us, Jimin, make sure to mention that.” Hoseok wrote a couple more things down. “I’ll be in my office, reviewing things. I’ll let you know at lunch what the real plan is. We’re gonna change things.”

“Okay,” Huffy said firmly. “That’s that then. Donuts done, coffee drunk, work to do. Off we go. The sooner we work, the sooner we finish, the sooner we can get a drink.”

That seemed to be the signal for everyone to get up and get moving.

You followed Jimin out, letting him lead you to the bathroom. “Sophisticated lady?”

“Make your hair more casual, maybe remove some of your makeup. And lose the jacket.”

You sighed and did as you were told as he disappeared for a moment, returning with a different shirt and a sweater.

“Try these.”

You looked at them, a little concerned.

“They’re clean, trust me. And they’re more casual than what you’re wearing.”

You waved him out of the room again, changing into the new shirt and sweater, a little disturbed at how well they fit. “Where did you get these?” You asked, opening the door again.

“Someone left them behind. Can’t remember when, can’t remember who, just remember they didn’t work here.” He checked his own hair while you switched your hair from a bun to a nice-looking pony-tail. “Can’t even remember why her shirt and sweater were left behind. Think she borrowed one of mine?”

You stared at him. “Did you sleep with this girl?”

He turned back to you with a half-smile. “No. I was drunk, but no. My boyfriend at that time wouldn’t have been too thrilled.”

“Do you have baggage about said boyfriend as your friend does about the significant other that he lost?” You asked, studying the impish man in front of you.

Jimin’s smile died a bit. “Told you about that, did he?”

“More or less. Focused more on the ones that survived rather than the one that died. So, baggage: yes or no?”

Jimin came and stood right in front of you, then moved closer, reaching and closing the bathroom door, locking it.

You clenched a fist, just in case.

“Baggage...yes. Same ship. All of us, the whole board, everyone in there. My boyfriend...we were at the point of breaking up anyway, so I feel guilty about that, because he wouldn’t have been there if I had. Hoseok was going to propose. Namjoon’s childhood friend. Yoongi’s girlfriend was paralyzed, and her brain...she only recognizes her family and she’s...not doing well. Two of Taehyung’s friends. Jungkook’s brother. Seokjin’s whole family, except his nephew. He jokes about drinking, but he really just wants to get to the daycare at a decent time. If he knows he has to stay late, he has a babysitter that brings his nephew here. Hoseok feels a lot of responsibility because he was the one who suggested we have a board retreat and invite family and friends. Seokjin, Taehyung, Namjoon, and Jungkook were all there when it happened. Myself, Yoongi, and Hoseok were delayed because of an emergency on a project we were heading up.”

You nodded slowly. “Got it. So, this company is being run by seven people who have undergone a whole lot of trauma and grief in the past six months. That doesn’t sound at all like a recipe for disaster.” Eight, a little voice whispered, eight if you’re included.

Jimin nodded a bit. “Right. What did you lose in that accident?”

You held his gaze steadily. “The will to please others with false actions and honeyed words.”

Jimin’s head tilted slightly and his eyes narrowed just a bit.

“My older brother worked on that ship, one of the engineers. He’d been filing reports like a good little worker bee about some of the issues they were seeing, but the reports were being ignored. He was threatened, and told to keep quiet if he wanted to keep his job. He told me, I told him to fight, to make sure no one got on that damn ship.”

“But he didn’t,” Jimin whispered, gaze shifting away from you.

“But I gave the people suing that company everything they needed to win their case, especially with HopeWorld providing the financial means for everyone to fight. It was serious neglect on their part, but even I was too pliant to do anything about it. So I’m done. I’m done trying to please others and put up with their crap and if you don’t unlock that door, I’m sorry, but I might punch you.”

He unlocked it. “Right. Sorry.”

“I’ve been dealing with too many thugs from the cruise company. That’s why I was job hunting. That’s why I got that job at the bar. It was a favor that a friend called in from the owner, but they both thought I was a bad fit. I was just desperate. And then Hoseok came in drunk on one glass of wine and complaining about a virgin pina colada.”

“That’s why he wouldn’t stop talking about virgins,” Jimin muttered. “He kept saying something about virgins being confident, and that he wished he was that confident, and that he was joking about not ordering virgins and it was all weird.”

“He should not be allowed to drink.”

“Well, normally he’s a sober and sleepy drunk, so, yesterday was a bit of an outlier. Happiest I’d seen him in a while, though. Especially after he met you.” He was studying you again.

“If you have something to say, then say it. I told you, I’m not waiting around for BS.”

“You’re not like the person he lost, I can tell that right away. But you’re the first person he’s shown...interest in. I guess I’m just curious about what he saw that intrigued him so much.”

“My winning personality and barbed words,” You answered, then grabbed your wallet from your purse and tucked it into your pocket, shoving the purse into the empty drawer that Hoseok had pointed out earlier. “What was the person he lost like?”

“Soft, a little...out-there, artistic, wild dreamer, adventurous, spontaneous,” Jimin listed, then shrugged. “Different.”

You paused to look at Jimin again. “When you said he’s taken an interest in me, did you mean….”

“Possibly romantically. Not definite, but there’s always a few different paths interest in other people can take us, isn’t there. If you’re anything like I’m assuming you are, you’d actually be a good match for him.” Jimin walked out. “Now, come on. We’ve got work to do.”

-----

-----

You were undercover in HopeWorld for a week before you finally were able to return and start moving into your office--having turned in a twenty-page report on your findings while working undercover.

And it was spotlessly clean this time, and there was a computer there. It was even sporting a nice, new plant in the one corner with a card that read it was from all of the other board members.

The winky-face said that Taehyung had been in charge of delivering it and writing the note.

So you set to unpacking the small box of office supplies that you were bringing in.

You were getting a corkboard and a whiteboard later, plus two more chairs so that anyone else in your office could sit down (or you could switch seats through the day if you needed to), and you definitely planned on bringing some more plants here since it got more sunlight than your tiny flat did.

So you unpacked a couple of empty binders, sheafs of paper, a few notebooks, your new pens and pencils, and your pen and pencil holders. You set a photo-frame on your desk. You pulled out a bottle of lotion and put it in one of your desk drawers.

And that’s where you found the photo of Hoseok with the person that had to be his lover.

“Of course,” You murmured, sighing, then you set the photo aside to return to him at your meeting later.

In the past week, you’d gotten a pretty good read on most of the boys, even Yoongi.

But Seokjin was distant, and kept you distant. He didn’t stick around on the days you were in what was technically his department, instead finding an excuse to be elsewhere.

Taehyung and Jimin had both shrugged when you told them that Seokjin was avoiding you.

“Don’t see why he would,” Jimin said, and you knew he was being honest.

It was fine. The boys weren’t your job anyway. Your job was to look at things practically, find problems or potential problems, and present them to people who could fix them. Your job was to question everything so that every eventuality is considered and the best product of the workers' time is produced.

“That’s not a very big box for such a big office.”

You jumped and dropped the stapler, but jumped back so that it wouldn’t staple you on accident (something that had, unfortunately, happened before). “You trying to give me a heart attack?”

Seokjin shrugged, strolling in casually and picking it up. “Not my intention.”

“Then what is your intention?” You asked, wondering what could have brought the illusive man to your office before the morning meeting. According to the others, and your own experiences, he was always just barely on time for the meeting.

He just looked at you carefully. “Can I ask you a question, and get an honest answer?”

“Fire away,” You replied, lifting an eyebrow curiously.

He moved closer so he was looking you in the eye. “Why did you take this job?”

You frowned a bit, stepping back and trying to figure out why he was asking that. But also, how to answer.

“Please answer honestly.”

“Jimin told you about my brother, the cruise ship?”

“Yes. He told all of us, Hoseok too. Hoseok had his suspicions. I don’t think they know that you were on the ship as well.”

You huffed out a laugh and leaned against your desk. “Good. I don’t need any of that nonsense.”

He nodded. “You were answering my question.”

You took a deep breath and then released it, looking at the ceiling. “Desperation. Have to pay the rent. And he seemed...optimistic.” There was something appealing to that optimism. Something familiar and comfortable. Refreshing.

“What did he tell you your job was going to be?”

“Dealing with trash that tried to get near him.”

“What’s on your resume?”

“Nothing to make me qualify for this office. And if you think I’m here because I’m taking advantage of his kindness...I can’t say that you’re wrong, but I’m also just curious about what he intends for me. Don’t think that I enjoy saying that someone is dead weight. They’re people, and they need to make a living somehow, but they need to make that living honestly. THere are people who want jobs, who need jobs, who are actually willing to put in the work.”

“So, going undercover…?”

“It was a solution that would alleviate the feelings of guilt that our boss might have felt if we hadn’t fully investigated and ended up firing someone. Besides, he strikes me as a bit of a neat freak, so I figure the janitorial staff should be top-notch. I did hear a rumor that J-Hope had liberated a cleaning cart and taken it to the top floor, though.”

Jin sighed, shaking his head. “He really hasn’t trusted the cleaning staff since your first day.”

“Lovely. Did he clean this office?”

“Gotta admire his work ethic.”

You shook your head. “So, I’m not the only person who’s almost completely in the dark about what my job actually is, am I?”

“I think he keeps rethinking what he wants for you.”

“And you’ve been avoiding me because…?”

He shrugged a bit. “I haven’t. It’s been a bad week for my nephew. I’ve been in and out of the office all week. Plus I’ve been working with Hobi.”

You both jumped as someone banged on your office door.

Hoseok threw it open with a grin, then halted, surprised. “Oh, hyung.”

“Hey, Hoseok-y. Y/n and I were just talking. I’ll leave you two to discuss y/n’s job. Because I think we’re all confused about it.” Seokjin took one of your paperclips and left.

Hoseok looked after him in confusion. “Did he ask if he could take that paperclip?”

“Um, no, but it’s just a paperclip. You read the report?”

He nodded. “Yeah. Good work on that. Sorry you were thrown into it so soon after starting.”

“You mean my first day.”

He chuckled. “Yeah. Your first day. So, I’ve figured out what your story is going to be.”

“My story?”

“Whenever a higher-up is brought in, they’re presented to the company. There are already rumors about a higher-up being brought into Mr. Jung’s board, and it’s extremely unorthodox for us to not present you within the first two weeks. So, we’ve got a couple days leeway to get you settled into your actual job.”

“I’m pretty sure that was part of my actual job.”

“Right. Anyway, I thought we might tell people that you’re the eyes and ears of Mr. Jung, and that one of your jobs is ensuring that we are at top potential.”

“Ok.”

“Which is basically what we already said, but I want to make it clear that you are in direct communication with HR and all reports go to you at the end of the day. I’m just having trouble coming up with your title.”

“Quality manager?”

He paused. “Ok, you’re really good. How have you not worked in a job like this before?”

“Hard times, big sacrifices. So, if I’m understanding things correctly, you want me to look through the reports on behaviors and such and make sure they’re looked into and that we’re paying attention, but also you want me to check in on projects and make sure we’re asking all the right questions.”

“Exactly. Quality manager is an excellent way of describing that job. But also, your job is to keep people from trying to see Mr. Jung. Mr. Jung has enough on his plate.”

You nodded. “I can do that. Shall we practice? I read through the notes on that memory core device.”

He grinned. “Sounds great. But first, the morning meeting.”

You nodded. “Thank you for cleaning my office, by the way.”

He just smiled back. “I can’t stand messes.”

“I gathered. You’ve got a pretty big one downstairs, though.”

“Yeah, I’m kind of dreading firing people though.”

“Then let me handle it. You can be there as a known authoritative figure and I’ll do the talking.”

“They might get mad at you for spying.”

“Then I trust you to handle their subsequent anger appropriately. I’ll try to keep things professional.”

“Thanks.”

“For?”

“Even offering to do any of this. I wasn’t really ready to take on the boss position. But I can’t sit by while people abuse their place in this company. I have to deal with the messes. My family didn’t build this legacy for me to let it fall apart.” His gaze was darker, but held determination to continue forward. A sternness to see things through.

The side of J-Hope that was the CEO of HopeWorld.

“I think once you get over the first trials you’ll be just fine.”

He looked at you in surprise. “You think?”

“I believe,” you amended. “I believe you are capable of being a great leader. I believe even though you are generous and compassionate, you will be able to handle the harder parts of this job for the good of the many employees who are doing their jobs to the best of their ability. Because that’s what it means when people are fired. The waste they accumulate is returned to the company and those that are still with it can benefit, or others who need the job take it and actually accomplish it. You’re improving efficiency, which makes the company prosper so you can do more for your employees.”

He slowly nodded. “That makes sense.”

You nodded. “Look at me: I could actually afford a new work outfit.”

He grinned, looking you over. “And it’s a great outfit.”

Okay. You hadn’t expected that.

“Are you implying something inappropriate?”

“Never. I just think it’s a very appropriate look and that it is very good at accentuating your good looks. You’re very good at shopping.”

You weren’t. Not really. Taehyung and Jimin had tagged along and helped you shop because you weren’t sure what would be best for the job and position. You had picked the items out, but Jimin and Taehyung had helped you style them together and decide on them.

“Sounds inappropriate to me.”

He chuckled. “Can’t you just take the compliment? It’s early.”

“If you compliment me, people might think that you’re showing favoritism.”

“Let them,” He answered easily, shrugging and holding the door open for you.

“Are you drunk again? I told you, you really shouldn’t drink.” You folded your arms.

He just laughed. “In. We’re late.”

“If we are, it’s your fault,” You replied, walking in and waving to the other men.

“Yes, of course. I wouldn’t dream of blaming you. Morning, everyone.” Hoseok took his seat. “What’s the day look like?”

“Same as yesterday, except whatever you and y/n are up to. My project is almost ready to present, Seokjin’s coming to help me today.”

“I do have my nephew today, he’s having a bad day,” Seokjin said quietly, making notes.

“That’s fine,” Hoseok said firmly, Namjoon merely nodding. “People like seeing him, and we’ve always said that kids are welcome as long as they don’t disturb others.”

“And he can come to my office anytime,” Taehyung said with a fond grin.

Seokjin nodded. “I have a meeting with my division just before lunch?”

Taehyung grinned. “We can color!”

Jimin rolled his eyes. “Work, Taehyung. He can color, you can design.”

“Right. Right. That.”

“I need Yoongi-hyung’s help on the memory-core project.”

Hoseok looked mildly intrigued, glancing at you.

“I can head down after I check on my project. Might be an hour or so.” Yoongi checked his watch.

Hoseok nodded. “And we’ll be there in about two hours so that Y/n can look things over as my second set of eyes.”

Jungkook looked like a deer caught in the headlights. “O-oh, o-o-okay.”

The others looked mildly surprised, but quickly moved on.

“I’ll be on phone meetings to organize that event most of the morning. Our employees really enjoyed the food truck war, and it’s summer, so I think it’s best to try and have enjoyable events as frequently as possible during the weeks we can’t give them 3-day weekends.” Jimin twirled his pen as he spoke, looking over something on his planner.

“I’ll leave it in your hands, just don’t go over budget.” Hoseok jotted a few things down. “Okay. Y/n and I have to deal with some unsatisfactory employees, then we’ll be down to see how things are going with the memory core. Not sure about our afternoon, but I might leave that for her to settle in. How does that sound to you?”

“If ‘settle in’ means looking over reports, then that sounds fine.”

He nodded, flipping his book closed. “Alright. Then off we go.”

You got up and followed him out, and into the elevator.

“It’ll be best to go to them since it would draw a lot of attention to bring them up. We need the head of janitorial service with us as well, and I want to apprise her of what’s going to happen before we do it. You were smart to record the conversation, I’ll present that to Chiseul.”

Chiseul had been in charge of sanitation at the company for eight years, she was kind, but firm and had no patience for slacking. When you’d worked under her, even for a day, you could tell she expected the best. She had put who she thought were her best people in charge of cleaning the top floor, but instead they had been doing very basic cleaning and actually stealing from the company.

Her reaction to finding out was silent fury. “Are you sure you don’t want me to fire them?”

“We believe that it’s best for us to handle it, that way others will know that they can’t pull anything. I’m sorry we deceived you,” You said respectfully, because you did respect her. You’d put in your report that she should get a raise.

Hoseok nodded. “We will be implementing a system to keep people accountable soon.”

She accepted that with a sharp nod and then went to call those who would be fired into her office.

Hoseok groaned as soon as the elevator doors closed. “That could have gone better.”

------

You held the ice to your face and shrugged. “Could have gone worse. Security stepped in at the appropriate time. And I didn’t fight back, which means I can’t be charged with assault should they try anything like that. There were also multiple witnesses.”

“But you got hurt,” He argued, rubbing his face. “You got hurt.”

“So, I’ll have a black eye. I walk to work, so it’s not like I’ll be driving while mildly impaired. We got ice on it pretty quickly, and I don’t think it will end up being too bad of a black eye.”

“You got hurt,” He whispered.

“And I’m fine. Hoseok, we’re on our way to look over a major project in your company. Pull yourself together.” You reached over and straightened his collar. “It’s a bruise, not a fatal wound.”

He caught your wrist, holding you in place so he could move the ice pack with his other hand and see, the whole time his expression holding worry and what might have been nausea. “Why would they attack you? I was there too. Why would they only attack you?”

He wasn’t asking. He wasn’t listening.

“Betrayal,” You answered anyway, sighing a little and forcing the ice-pack back to your face.

“Uh, you two coming out of there or do you need another moment?” Yoongi asked, an eyebrow raised as he looked between you, not seeming to care that he’d startled both of you since you’d been too busy looking at one another to realize the elevator was open. But his gaze stuck on the ice pack. “Shit, they hit you?”

“Don’t you start too,” You groaned, exiting the elevator.

Hoseok stopped you, pulling you back so he could look at your eye again. “Hyung, look at her eye.”

Yoongi frowned a bit more, but complied. His eyes widened a bit. “Uh…infirmary.”

“Thought so.” Hoseok pulled you back into the elevator.

“Oh, come on,” You groaned.

Yoongi just shushed you. “Your eye looks bloody.”

“Oh.” Well, that was special. It didn’t especially hurt, but that might be because you were numbing the area.

But Hoseok ended up taking you to the hospital for evaluation.

As the two of you walked out of the hospital, you sighed for the fortieth time. “Told you I was fine.”

“That’s not what he said.”

“He said that I should be fine and to come back in if my eye gets worse or I start having other issues. It was probably her ring that got me.” You glanced at your watch. “Man, I’m not going to experience a regular workday, am I?”

His head dropped. “Sorry.”

“Not your fault. I’d probably get bored if it got too quiet. And feeling sorry doesn’t do any good. You didn’t hurt me, so you’re wasting energy by being sorry.”

“I know, but I got you into this job—“

“Are you thirsty?” You asked, stopping.

“What?”

“Are you thirsty?” You asked slowly.

“Um, I guess?”

You nodded and pulled him into the restaurant, dragging him to the bar.

“I don’t think you should have alcohol—“

“Hi, can I get a water with lemon and a Piña colada?” You asked the bartender, ignoring Hoseok. You had no intention of drinking, but Hoseok was so tense it was making you tense.

He stared at the piña colada. “What?”

“Drink. You’re driving me crazy. You need to relax and I doubt you’re going to do it on your own. I’ll make sure you don’t end up in a back alley.” You patted his hand.

“So…if you could drink, what would it be?” He asked.

“Probably a gimlet, with extra lime. But like I said, my preferred drink is water. I like to keep my head clear. There’s less golf-ball swallowing.”

He snorted and choked on his second sip of his drink.

You patted his back as he tried to recover from choking, and he was laughing in between coughing which wasn’t helping at all.

The bartender was looking concerned.

“His wife left him for his sister and his brother in law confessed his love to him, it’s a royal mess,” you told him, rolling your eyes.

Hoseok died a little more. “Stop,” He gasped, finally just laughing.

“It’s not my fault he thinks your butt is cute.”

He collapsed off of the stool, thudding to the ground and laughing harder.

“Man, two sips and you’re already drunk. You better not ask me if I like that nastiness again.”

He got up with your help, starting to calm down. “I won’t ask that.”

“Good. But seriously, I’m cutting you off. You’re too much of a lightweight.” You settled the bill with some extra for the bartender, then guided him toward the door.

But both of you stopped at the door.

“It’s raining?” Hoseok asked, still a little breathless.

“It would appear so.” You looked up at the sky.

“Do you like getting caught in the rain?” He asked quietly, holding out his hand.

You laughed softly, taking his hand. “I actually really do.”

“Really?” He smiled as he laced his fingers with yours.

“Really,” You confirmed, looking out at the rain with a little excitement.

“You might ruin your clothing.”

“Clothing washes, as do I.” You tugged and pulled him out into the rain, giggling as the rain started soaking into you.

He laughed as well, looking less comfortable in the rain, but like he was willing to let you lead him through it.

No.

Like he would follow you into anything.

“Why did you offer me the job?” You asked.

He met your gaze with surprise.

“Why me?”

He smiled at you, stepping closer so he could be heard. “I couldn’t say goodbye.”

You tilted your head.

“I couldn’t say goodbye to you, not at that time, and I don’t know why, but I’m trying to figure it out.”

You could work with that.

Hoseok touched your cheek, then moved in.

You knew your eyes were a little wide.

He gave a slight smile and then leaned in to kiss you.

You allowed it, and you didn’t regret it as his lips met yours. It was…new. Different. Right.

Except for one tiny detail.

You pushed him away gently. “Okay. But you need a new go-to drink because I forgot to mention I’m actually allergic to coconut, so, I’m gonna take some allergy meds now.”

His eyes widened. “I like mimosas and daiquiri.”

You nodded, swallowing an allergy pill. “Great. We won’t kill me, then.”

“How allergic are you?”

You shrugged. “I should be fine now.”

“Okay.”

“So, if you want to kiss me, we can do that again.”

He met your gaze, smiling. “That sounds like a bad idea.”

You rolled your eyes, then pulled him in. “Kiss me.”

He grinned. “Man, I love your honesty.”

And in the rain, you kissed your piña colada man, ignoring what might happen in your future.

“Might not be a permanent job, my judgement might be clouded. I might show favoritism.”

“Then call me a consultant pending permanent employment and depending where this takes us we’ll…let the others decide my fate.”

“Works for me. Let me walk you home. Where do you live?”

You gestured vaguely. “That way. About fifteen minutes from your building. Work. Place.”

“When you said you were a virgin—”

“I never said I was a—walk. We’re getting soaked standing here like idiots and I hear thunder.” You started walking, keeping hold of his hand. “That or I start reevaluating what parts you really need.”

He laughed. “You know what’s funny?”

“No.”

“When you’re actually being honest, your hands relax, and when you’re bluffing, they get all tense.”

Huh.

“What is your biggest concern with the memory core?”

You considered it for a moment. “It could just be a matter of wording.”

“That’s still important.”

“The proposal suggests imprinting all of the memories of the player onto the memory core so that full immersion is more stimulating.”

“Right.”

“But it’s wording makes it sound like the game is replacing their memories. Imagine someone overwrites the data: what happens when the player tries to re-immerse themselves?”

He was quiet for a while. “That…could be….”

“Disastrous. This machine is supposed to work with your brain, but corrupted files could shut the brain down or damage it. It is incredibly dangerous if I’m understanding it correctly.”

“It could hurt people. We have to tick every box. And come up with fail safes.”

“To me, it’s not worth the risk. But that’s why I wanted to talk to them, to make sure I was understanding things.” You gestured to a building. “This is me.”

He nodded, only following when you tugged on his hand. “Are you sure you want me—”

“We’re soaked and the wind is picking up, and—” lightning flashed through the sky, “the storm is getting worse. We’ll call you a cab or something.”

“Right. Inside. Good idea.”

You ditched your shoes the moment you got in, rushing to the bathroom to grab towels so the two of you didn’t drip all over everything. “It’s a bit hot in here, sorry, my AC broke.”

“Just means we’re not going to get chilled,” He answered, taking the towel and looking around. “It’s nice.”

You glanced around as well. You’d opted for minimalism since that was the only way to make the place not feel claustrophobic. “It does the job.”

“So, you’re allergic to coconut?”

“Mostly the consumption, but I do have mild reactions externally as well.”

“How’d you find out?”

“Coconut hair treatment with my friend when I was fifteen. They had to cut my hair off because my scalp blistered and broke out and it was…traumatizing. But that was because it was coconut oil right against my skin for over an hour, undiluted. My daily allergy meds help if I happen to use, I don’t know, soap with coconut in it.” You put the kettle on the stove since you were feeling kind of chilled. “Tea?”

“Sure.” He started examining the photos on your wall (all three of them). “So, if I hadn’t been the last straw for that job, where do you think you’d be right now?”

“Dumping a scotch-neat on my boss’s head, if not down his pants, after quitting and looking for a job with less drunk people. My boss was drunk, my coworkers were drunk, everyone was drunk, except me. Do you know how surreal that feels?”

“And yet you accepted a job from me, someone who was drunk?”

“So you admit it,” You pointed out.

He rubbed his neck. “I usually only drink in the evenings, it generally makes me sleepy.”

“You had caffeine with your alcohol, then.”

“Accidentally.”

“That would explain the whole ‘why is the rum always gone’ debacle.”

He was very red looking in profile, but that could have been the lighting. “Yeah. I was embarrassed as I did it and yet I didn’t stop. Stupid.”

“If I hadn’t been having a terrible night, I probably would have enjoyed the reference, honestly. But, as you put it, you were the last straw. I would probably be applying to fast food right about now if it hadn’t been you.” You watched him studying your photos far longer than they were worth studying. “Are my photos that interesting?”

“These three were the ones you consciously decided to display, which means they mean something to you.”

You thought about that for a moment, thinking about all of the photos of families that the people you’d worked under while spying had shown you. Always the kids, always the wife, always the beloved pet.

But Hoseok had no photos in his office.

“You don’t keep any photos visible in your office, and office photos are, arguably, the ones that provide the most insight into people,” You countered, sitting on the floor with the tray of tea on the coffee table.

He joined you on the floor. “It’s a precaution. I keep the photos in J-Hope’s desk, the locked drawer. I’m surprised you noticed, though.”

“I wouldn’t have, but people kept shoving their photos in my face and if they weren’t, then I was redirecting their attention to their photos so I would get away with my snooping. People like to talk about themselves.”

He was watching you, a soft smile on his face. “You really are something else.”

You shrugged. “Don’t know what to tell you there.”

“We could hide it, you know. Us, whatever we are?”

“Professional flirtation,” You guessed, holding the mug and surprised at how cold your fingers had been. “Workday dalliance?”

“Wow, um, anyway, we could just not tell anyone about us.”

“9 to 5 lovers,” You quipped, trying to come up with more.

“Are you purposefully ignoring me?”

“Ye-es,” You dragged out, trying to think of another thing to call it.

“You don’t think we could?”

“I think the boys would figure it out before the morning meeting ended.”

“Oh, right, I didn’t mean from the boys.”

“Oh, ok, please continue.” You leaned on your hand and watched him.

“We stay away from anything unprofessional at work, with the exception of in private, and we make sure no one catches on. Then, when I officially take my position...we reevaluate where we are and adjust accordingly.”

“Officially take your position?”

“Technically, I’m not yet the CEO, my father is, but I’ve been acting CEO for about three years.”

He didn’t add that they had been the most prosperous three years of the company’s history, but maybe he was trying to stay humble.

“So, once he’s better and we finish a few things, he’ll hand over things to me officially. In front of the company.”

“Revealing that J-Hope is actually his son and everyone’s boss.”

He nodded. “Which would also be revealing that you have been working for me.”

“All of which could be potentially disastrous.”

“Yeah.” He sighed. “I bet you’d say I should have been open about it the whole time.”

“Not at all. I think this was the best course of action. Everyone respects J-Hope, they like him. They like his work ethic, they like how he listens, and they like how he cares. They like how bright and cheerful he is. They don’t know if they can trust their CEO, but they know that the board has been taking care of them and the CEO has been allowing it. They’re curious, and a little apprehensive.” You remembered all of the conversations you’d had over the week.

But one stuck out to you.

You’d been getting coffee with one of the employees in the marketing department, discussing the company and it’s leadership.

“I don’t know about the CEO. Or, well,” She flustered for a second. “I don’t know why he feels the need to hide from us. His father never did, but maybe there’s a plan. Every now and then, they have someone who sort of...scopes things out. They had me in project development for a couple of weeks so that I could tell them what I thought of the person that was testing the projects. That person was Mr. Jeon.”

You’d tilted your head, confused.

“Jeon Jungkook, he’s one of the board members, the youngest board member. He’s really good at catching on, which makes him a prime test subject for things that are about to be released. We can’t bring people in, not often, because information tends to get leaked. He’s been a godsend to the company. Mr. Jung found him, too, he’s found just about every top employee, and all of the board members--except J-Hope. He worked his way up through the company, and then impressed Mr. Jung Sr. and was given a job on the board. He looks after employee welfare and we’ve had an amazing increase in our benefits program ever since. It’s a shame Mr. Jung Jr. didn’t start out like J-Hope.”

“What’s that look for?”

You jumped a bit, refocusing on him. “All of the things that J-Hope has done are your accomplishments. You’ve improved the benefits program, upgraded the retirement package, made sure that everyone has received pay increases, and you worked your way up through the company. Your intellect lies in people, and your devotion to your job as their employer has inspired loyalty to you. I’m not saying you should go out tomorrow and reveal that you’re Mr. Jung Jr.”

“Do they really call me that?” He cringed.

“But you shouldn’t fear...telling them who you are. Yes, it could cause problems, but only momentarily. Until then, you want me to help you deal with trash and question everything so that the ship is running tightly when the official transfer happens. Right?” You asked, sitting up straight. “That way if anything happens with stocks, or the market, the company is running smoothly and will stay afloat.”

“You have a business degree, don’t you?”

“I never graduated,” You corrected easily. “But I did study some business, yes. This is what you want from me, correct?”

“Yes. I need you to tell me to suck it up when I hesitate.”

“Okay. Did you read my report on the other departments?”

He nodded slowly.

“Then I suggest you decide what should be done to those employees, and what you’re actually willing to do. Because I outlined my suggestions for each of them, but ultimately, it is up to you. You want to run a tight ship, you need to get rid of excess crew, which sounds terrible, but it’s true. If they’re not doing their job, they have no reason to be on deck. And some of them were on the wrong decks.”

He nodded. “I’ll review it once more, but we’ll probably go with your suggested actions.”

“Okay. Glad we understand each other.” You grabbed your phone, checking it. “Taehyung wants to know if I’m alive, and if I’m alive, is Hoseok alive as well.”

“Crap,” He went into his pocket. “Oh. They just wanted to go drinking. Taehyung is our usual designated driver. He’s not a big drinker like Jungkook and Jimin. I’m going to ask him to swing by and pick me up. If that’s okay.”

“Why wouldn’t it be?”

He shrugged. “I didn’t know how you felt about where you lived. You’re kind of hard to read.”

“I live here, I pay the rent, it’s small, but it’s mine. Or were you referring more to a bunch of men knowing where I, a single woman, lived?”

“The latter.”

“Ah, sweet of you to be concerned, but Jimin’s already seen my place.”

“He has?” Hoseok frowned.

“He dropped me off after we went shopping. None of the stores had bathrooms. Nature called.” You shrugged.

“I don’t like that,” Hoseok muttered, obviously more to himself.

“You don’t like that he had to use the bathroom? Or that we went shopping together? Because, technically, he was the only board member I was allowed to be seen with as one of his employment experiments.” You pointed out, waiting for him to pull himself together and continue texting Taehyung. “Also, you might want to text him before it’s too late.”

“That he saw your house.”

“Interesting. Text Taehyung,” You instructed carefully. “Before you have to pay for a cab.”

He did, but he was frowning the whole time.

You rolled your eyes. “Jimin was here for all of five minutes. I doubt he could even tell you what color the walls in the bathroom are.”

“Color,” He muttered, getting up and heading to the small hall.

“Um….”

“Purple. Walls are purple. Take that.”

“Oh my god, there is no way you’re even buzzed, why are you acting weird?”

“Purple. Blue. White. Three pictures.”

You rolled your eyes, and shook your head. “Weirdo. I mean, I knew that, only weird people like pina coladas--”

He caught you and kissed you again. “Don’t let Jimin in. He’s a minx. He’s a fox. That magic trickster fox that seduces you. A succubus.”

“Incubus,” you corrected. “Which is a sort of demon. Magical fox thing is a kitsune. You’re mixing your mythologies.”

“You’re so smart,” He said, but he said it in a sort of happy, sighing way while looking at you so softly and gently and adoringly….

You believed him.

He touched your cheek, then quickly pulled his hands away. “Alright. How about a rule?”

“Depends on the rule,” You replied.

“You have good judgement, and self control,” His gaze shifted to your eye, and his fingers brushed the edge of the bruising with a feather-light touch, “So, I want there to be a rule that at work, any...personal things between us are initiated by you. Which means you can shut me down at any time, anyway you feel necessary.”

“You mean, like asking you about your ex?”

“Ouch,” He muttered, looking down. “Yeah. Sure. What do you want to know?”

“Am I replacing your ex?”

He shook his head. “Not even remotely.”

“I’m in their office.”

He looked up, then shook his head. “No, you’re in my mom’s old office. Yesuel never worked at HopeWorld. Too much of a free-spirit.”

“But you loved them all the same.”

“I did. I thought I did. Love is...tricky.”

“Are you ready for another significant other?” You asked.

He met your gaze, holding it. “Do you like getting lost in the rain?”

You smiled. “You know I do.”

“Then you know I am,” He replied easily, fingers resting under your chin. “Are you going to be okay, with your eye like that? They did say it could get worse, and if it does….”

“Are you asking if you can stay? Because you’d have to borrow clothing, or live in a blanket until your clothing is dry. I don’t have much that would fit you.”

“I’m worried about you. I’ll stay on the couch.” He touched a strand of your still-damp hair. “Eye injuries are dangerous.”

“Didn’t you already tell Taehyung to come pick you up?”

He shook his head. “I was just going to walk down to work and get my car and pretend that Taehyung picked me up.”

You hit him lightly. “And if you got struck by lightning?”

“My company would be in good hands,” He answered, shrugging slightly. “But I would miss out on a few things. But you can get hit by lightning and live.”

“Not well,” You argued, frowning.

He gently ran a thumb over your eyebrow, as though to ease away your frown. “Besides, I was already struck by you. I don’t think anything could knock me off my feet like that, I don’t think anything ever has. You’re new and unique. And I want to know everything I can about you. Even if you don’t like pina coladas. Even if you are a virgin.”

You rolled your eyes. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And you’re addicted to it,” He replied easily, smirking at you.

And yes.

You were.

It was crazy, but you were completely addicted to the banter with him, the way he smiled while you were grumbling, the way he asked what you thought of things and actually listened. You liked his gentleness and compassion.

He brought hope back to your world.

“I agree to your rule,” You whispered.

Hoseok grinned and kissed you.

Your future was going to be crazy...but maybe the consistency of his smile was enough to get you through.

[horansqueen]

You & Me : chapter 23

A Niall Horan fanfiction ; rated MA

Sequel to AM CONVERSATIONS

CHAPTER 1 || CHAPTER 2 || CHAPTER 3 || CHAPTER 4 || CHAPTER 5 || CHAPTER 6 || CHAPTER 7 || CHAPTER 8 || CHAPTER 9 || CHAPTER 10 || CHAPTER 11 || CHAPTER 12 || CHAPTER 13 || CHAPTER 14 || CHAPTER 15 || CHAPTER 16 || CHAPTER 17 || CHAPTER 18 || CHAPTER 19 || CHAPTER 20 || CHAPTER 21 || CHAPTER 22

NOTES:

-one chapter is her pov, the next is his. -4.9k -im sorry, i never proofread, i hate it. -there WILL be smut. but not only smut. -this is a romance, comedy, smut story. -for the summary, check my MASTERLIST.

- notes: its a bit longer. and i hope its not too much or too exaggerated? anyway, you tell me. i really want to know what you really think, thank you!

if you want to be on the list of blogs i notify when this is updated, just message me :)

requests! : only one, no spoiler :)

Chapter 23 : His chapter

NIALL

I woke up with dried tears and the sun peaking through the curtains. I had no idea what time it was but Olivia was still pressed against me and I was holding her close, as if we hadn't moved at all during the night. I moved my face in her hair, smelling the honey and vanilla scent, before leaving a kiss on top of her head. She moaned low and moved closer, rubbing her nose on my neck.

"Mm, Niall." she whispered, making my lips curl.

I didn't know how she'd ever marry an other man after everything we went through and I didn't want to believe I was just some sort of friend with benefits that she used to have a 'fun time' before marrying someone else and spending her life with him. That was not the type of things she did and there was no way this made any sense. She didn't mention it, though, and  didn't want to put any kind of pressure on her. She knew how I felt and I'd keep telling her until she'd make it clear she didn't want to hear it anymore.

"'Morning, petal. How did you sleep?" I asked, keeping my voice very low.

"With your song in head." she admitted just as low, leaving small kisses on my neck. "You really wrote that for me?"

I opened my eyes  and pressed my cheek on top of her head. "I was not expecting to see you at the bakery that day, but if I had known, I would have expected my feelings for you to be exactly that. I knew I was still in love with you, Olivia. I knew when I broke up with you, and I knew all the time we were not together."

We remained quiet and I felt her fingers on my back, holding me against her, as if i wanted to move away anyway. Her warm and naked body against mine felt so good I could have stayed in this position all day.

"If you were always in love with me, Niall, why did you leave me?" she asked low, her voice almost cracking. "Why was everything else so important? Why did you need to be single and fuck around? Why wasn't I enough?"

I closed my eyes tight again and swallowed hard. Her questions were legit and my answers were sad. I squeezed her harder against me and licked my lips, trying to find the right words.

"I was selfish, and stupid. Honestly, Olivia, a big part of me knew you were unhappy. You were always hurt by stuff online or by the things I did and said. I felt like you wanted out and that eventually you'd end up hating me and leaving anyway. I left because your heart was in this relationship but your head was driving you insane."

She pulled away and her eyes met mine. She was frowning, her lips parted, and she shook her head.

"What?" she whispered, making me close my eyes again and sigh. "You're either trying to put this on me or you're literally telling me that you left because you thought that's what I wanted. I mean, you don't get to make that decision for me, Niall."

"I know, I mean I should have told you but-" she pulled away from me and sat in bed before rubbing her eyes. "I mean, Liv, It's true, you were miserable with me."

"Maybe because you kept flirting with every fucking girl you met!"

She got up and grabbed a pair of sweatpants and a shirt and something twisted in my stomach when I realized she hadn't picked the one I was wearing the day before. She was pissed, or hurt... or both.

"I know, I know I was wrong. I would never do that again."

"Well, I don't know if I believe you." she let out, grabbing her phone and getting out of the room.

I sighed and got up too, putting pretty much the same outfit as her and following her to the kitchen as she grabbed a water bottle in the fridge and started drinking from it.

"Olivia, I haven't flirted with anyone since.. I can't remember, but it's been months."

"What about in a year, Niall? When you'll be tired of me. When you'll be tired that I'm the only one you get to see naked, the only one you get to fuck. What will happen, then?"

Her tone was harsh and I swallowed the lump in my throat as I stared at her. I could understand how she felt, and at the same time, I knew she was aware that I was not the same man than I used to be.

"That will never happen again. Never." I let out seriously. "I will never get tired of you."

Her eyes softened for a few seconds but she quickly frowned again.

"Anyway that's not the point, you took a decision for me and you should have talked to me about it instead. You can't decide what I want or what I should do!"

"You're right, I can't. But don't you feel better now? You worked so much on yourself, you grew up and matured for the better, and I did too. I love to see you so confident about yourself, look what you accomplished! You have your own tv show, you do something you love and you get paid for it. You're so balanced and you look so happy and you love yourself!" I argued, taking a step closer.

"Okay, do you want me to thank you for it? Thank you, Niall, for breaking my heart."

Her voice was not as harsh and I felt like she knew I was right. I shook my head and sighed, daring to take an other step closer.

"No, you have only yourself to thank. You're the one who did all that. You owe it only to you. And you're right, I was a selfish prick and the fact that you weren't happy with me just comforted me in choosing my freedom over you." I explained gently. "But I love you. I changed. I want to show you that I changed."

She sighed and I was getting mad. I was not really mad at her, I was more mad at myself for not being able to express myself properly, and for the way I acted when we dated. I was pissed because she was right, and because her pain was legit. I was mad because I wanted her back and because I was scared our day was ruined.

"Well love is not everything, remember? It takes more than that." she pointed out roughly. "A lot more."

I felt something explode inside me, like a mix of anger and pain that I was unable to keep inside anymore and I shook my head roughly, throwing my arms up.

"If I could I'd take it back okay!" my voice was loud but I could feel sobs threatening to come out.

"Take what back?" she asked with an annoyed tone.

"That stupid break-up!" I admitted just as loud. "That fucking ridiculous break-up! I'd take it back in a heartbeat if I could! I'd erase it from our history forever! I regret it! It's the biggest regret of my life!"

Her eyes got bigger and her lips parted slightly. She seemed so surprised by my words that it calmed her immediately. I watched her lick her lips slowly, trying to keep my own tears in.

"If you hadn't broken up with me, Niall, you wouldn't know that." she started, this time in a low and soft voice. "You'd still be unsure of what you want, you wouldn't know if you really loved me. You had to lose me to realize that you actually wanted me. Do you see the irony, Niall? Do you realize how fucked up it is?"

I sighed again and walked to her, grabbing a chair and sitting down at the table, my elbows on the table and my face in my hands. I didn't want to fight with her, and I knew we could have a discussion without fighting. I breathed in and out a few times and when I felt calm, I opened my eyes again. She was sitting in front of me and she seemed calm too now.

"It is. It's fucked up." I admitted, staring at her. "I don't know how to tell you how sorry I am, Olivia."

"I already forgave you for that, Niall." she pointed out gently. "I'm sorry for bringing it back."

I let my arms fall on the table and opened my hands, palms up. She looked down and nibbled on her bottom lip for a few seconds before placing her hands in mine.

"Heidi sent me that picture of you in a wedding dress to make us fight but we did it by ourselves." I just said with a sad chuckle.

"It's normal to fight, sometimes, as long as we know how to make up, too." she explained. "We're better at this, aren't we?"

The left corner of my lips raised up. "We were never bad at it, but we're even better now, it's true."

I squeezed both her hands before letting go of one and grabbing the other with both of mine. I turned her hand so her palm was facing up and ran the tip of my forefinger on it gently. After a few seconds, she quivered slightly and my lips curled more. I loved having an effect on her.

"We're gonna have to talk about what we did when we were apart." I finally said, still staring at her hand.

I couldn't help but think about what Heidi told me and for some reason, I wanted to prove her wrong, even if she would never know. Olivia was not the kind of person to push me away for my mistakes. She never did it, and I felt like she never would. She didn't judge anyone and she always tried to make you feel better when you felt at your worst. I didn't want to believe that the bad decisions I took while we were apart would just ruin what we could have now and at the same time, I felt like she deserved to know before anything serious happened between us, if it was ever going to happen.

Her fingers slipped out of my hands as she brought her arms back to her and it made me look up. She was avoiding my gaze and it made me frown. Didn't she want to know what I did without her? Or was she just too scared to be hurt by my behavior that just thinking about that discussion made her feel bad?

"Not now, okay?"

I frowned, a bit surprised by how she literally closed up completely in front of me. It was so sudden that I realized maybe the problem was not what she was going to hear, but more what she was going to say.

"It's important, you know."

She shut her eyes tight and nodded. "I know."

I waited for her to open her eyes again but she didn't and I reached for her wrist over the table. "There's a fair in town, you want to go?"

Her eyes finally fluttered open and her lips curled a bit before she nodded. I realized she was uncomfortable with the discussion I wanted to have but I couldn't help but think it was needed. I was ready to wait but we couldn't push this discussion back forever, and I wanted her to hear it from me and not from anyone else.

"Okay, let's get ready then."

Her smile got bigger and she nodded again before getting up and going back to my room. I got up too and watched her leave, taking her water bottle and swallowing what was left it in. I was not the type to worry but this time, i felt curious and a bit scared. I was nervous to tell her about what I had done but I felt like she was keeping some things to herself too and although she didn't have to tell me what it was, I hoped she would.

When I got back to my room, I heard the shower and smiled despite myself. Without thinking, I took my clothes off and joined her quickly. She chuckled when she saw me but didn't tell me to leave and I quickly took the shampoo, rubbing it in her hair as she closed her eyes, a smile still gracing her lips.

"Your hair's gonna smell like my shampoo now." I said in a low tone. "Makes me sad. I prefer the way it smells normally."

She laughed and her eyes met mine when she opened them before shaking her head.

"Here's a secret I can tell you, Niall James Horan." she started, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "It's not my shampoo that has that smell."

My eyes opened wide and I chuckled low. "It's not?" she shook her head more. "What is it, then?"

This time, she just raised her nose up and took some foam from her hair only to wipe it on the tip of my nose. I raised it up and groaned, making her burst into laughter. She took a step back and let her head fall back to rinse her hair. I stared at her wet body for a few seconds before taking the shampoo again and washing my own hair.

We got prepared and left and this time, we took my car. We stopped at a restaurant to eat even if it was in the middle of the afternoon and ended at the fair a bit after 5. We could already see the sun setting and I realized time always passed fast when I was with her. I motioned to grab her hand without thinking but stopped right on time. It made my heart jump in my chest and I just turned my face to her to send her a smile.

"I like when you wear a cap." she just said, grabbing the front and pulling it down.

I took it off to put it back correctly and she laughed right before apologizing. I was happy to be there with her and I just hoped I wouldn't be recognized. It would just be incredibly nice to walk around holding hands and not holding inside all the affection we felt for each other but at the same time, I knew it was risky for her. Anyway, I was never the one who enjoyed PDA, even if I had derogated from my own rule a few times with her.

"I like when you wear a smile." I replied.

Her traits softened and her head tilted. Her smile turned into a fond one and just for that look, it was worth saying that cheesy line.

"I almost forgot how well you can sweet talk women."

This time, I laughed. "You know that's a lie."

"You're not as awkward as you think you are, Nee." she pointed out with a laugh as she walked towards a booth. "But I admit that your good look helps a lot."

This time, I laughed louder. "Glad you finally admit it." I joked as she quickly ordered cotton candy.

I reached for her hand with one of mine while the other searched through my pants. I handed the guy a bill and didn't send a glance to my ex girlfriend. I knew she was staring at me but I just thanked him and turned around as she followed me.

"I can pay for my own shit." she pointed out as I saw her lick her lips from the corner of my eyes. "But thank you. I also almost forgot how much of a gentleman you are. Well, in public, because in the bedroom you're-"

"Oh god stop!" I laughed, turning to her this time and noticing the large smile on her face.

She laughed too and I rolled my eyes as we walked to an other booth. No matter what we did together, it was always fun and it made me realize just how bad I wanted to really be with her again.

"So if I win you this pink bear right there, are you gonna sleep with it?" I asked with a smirk.

She tilted her head but moved her chin up and I kept looking at her as her eyes got smaller. She brought her finger and tapped her chin a few times, pretending to think and I rolled my eyes again at how dramatic she could get. I should have known she'd be a good actress.

"Yea definitely." she finally replied with a nod. "He'll sleep right between us so I can cuddle with him."

I raised my eyebrows and my head moved back. "Well in that case, I think we're just gonna try a few rides and leave him here."

I put my hands in my pockets and pretended to leave until she reached for my arm. "Noo, no, I will leave him on the nightstand when I'm with you."

I stopped and smiled big, amused by her behavior and finally turned back to her before nodding slowly. "Alright."

It took me 3 tries but I finally got it and handed it to her. Her smile got bigger and I could swear I saw a hint of red on her cheeks but I didn't mention it. She grabbed it and held it close to her as she was nibbling her bottom lip and she mumbled a 'thank you' that made me chuckle.

"You could have just paid to get it you know." she pointed out after a few seconds. "It would have costed you a few dollars but you didn't have to really play the game."

"Wouldn't have been the same would it?" I shrugged, sending her a wink. "Wouldn't have been as romantic." I made a pause. "And cheesy."

She laughed and my heart jumped in my chest, almost escaping from my throat. She kept the damn bear with her in all the rides, holding it between her thighs and even if she was not a big fan of rides, we did a few gentle ones. It's only when it was really dark outside that I noticed how she was looking at all the lights. She grabbed her phone and started taking pictures before turning to me and snapping one of me. It took me by surprise but I pulled her closer and grabbed her phone before taking a selfie of us. I took a look at it and held my breath when I looked at her. Her hair was a mess, her eyes were shut tight and her nose was up, and it reminded me of a selfie she had sent me when we were dating and I was traveling Asia. I quickly sent myself the picture from her phone and handed it back to her.

We remained in silence and kept walking. I had to leave my hands in my pockets to make sure I wouldn't just bring her close to me and when she pointed the ferris wheel, I raised my eyebrows at her.

"I thought I was cheesy but you're the queen."

"How about you be me king and come with me? I'd love to kiss you without anyone seeing." she admitted in a very low tone. "You in?"

"People normally go there for the incredible sight we get at the top."

"I have an incredible sight right here, in front of me." she confessed, making me chuckle. "Please, Niall."

I was just playing with her, there was nothing I wanted more than to kiss her at the exact moment, and it seemed like it took forever until we were at the top. I watched the dark sky and all the neon lights around the fair for a few seconds before turning to her and quickly kissing her. I felt all my body relax, like I had been waiting for this moment all day, and when she whimpered in my mouth, I groaned too, holding her cheeks with both my hands. When we started going back down, I stopped kissing her but leaned my forehead against hers, still cupping her face. We finally got out of the ride and that's when trouble started. I noticed someone take a picture and my heart skipped a beat.

"What the..."

"What's wrong?"

"Fuck, Liv, we have to go." I whispered, grabbing her arm gently and leading her to the exist as quick as I could.

I glanced behind us until we were in my car and started it, driving away from that place and looking in the rear view mirror a few times. I only relaxed when I was sure we were not followed and noticed she was staring at me, her head leaned on the seat.

"I'm sorry." I let out with a sad smile.

"Are you doing this for me?" she asked, blinking a few times and ignoring my apology. "I mean I know you don't like to be seen in public and pictures being taken and all, but did you leave quickly like that because I'm supposed to marry someone else and you were scared people would talk shit?"

"Mostly, yea." I just admitted as I brought my eyes back on the road.

We remained silent for a few minutes and I had no idea what was going on in her head until I heard her voice again.

"I love you, Niall Horan."

                                                ----

We were exhausted when we came back to my place and I just rushed to the kitchen to pour us two glasses of white wine. She followed me, putting her pink bear on the table as I handed her a glass. She drank half of it but she weirdly seemed serene and calm. I thought she'd go crazy knowing that someone had taken a few pictures of us but she didn't seem to care at all. It's not like she was not used to it but at the same time, she never liked it and it always bothered her, making her current behavior even more intriguing.

"Okay, tell me, I'm ready." she just said after exhaling deeply. I frowned at her and she pressed her lips together. "Tell me what you did that's so horrible while we were away from each other."

In the morning, she was the one who didn't want to talk about it and now, it was me. Perhaps I just didn't want to ruin such a perfect day. I pulled a chair and let myself fall on it but instead to sit in front of me, she sat at the end of the table and turned her chair sideways to face me. I took my glass and moved it a bit only to watch the pale liquid move in it.

"I slept with some girls before I started dating Heidi, but I couldn't find what I was looking for until I met this girl at a bar. She was shaped like you, had your hair color and your smile and in the dark, she could have been you, you know? I just... I let out your name while we were fucking and maybe I had to pay her to keep her mouth shut."

"Are you... sure she was not just a prostitute?"

I looked up at her with a small smile. "No."

"Oh." she pressed her lips together. "Was she as good as me?"

I chuckled sadly and shook my head. "No one is."

I remained silent for a minute or two, trying to make sense of my thoughts before continuing.

"I tried a few drugs. You know it was never my type but I needed to sort of... get away. One time Heidi had to pick me up at your old apartment because I was hitting the door and screaming your name in the middle of the night but you had already moved out." I scoffed at myself, I couldn't believe how pathetic I had been. "I'm not gonna get into details but I also started a fight in a pub. Just hit some arsehole that said something about you."

"What about me..."

"Something sexual that's clearly not worth repeating."

"It seems like you did many things that were out of character." she said cautiously. "But that's what you wanted, right? Try new things and just live your life? Why do you regret it?"

"Because nothing was worth losing you, Olivia." I admitted a little louder, looking up in her eyes as her face softened again. "I was miserable. I was a pathetic piece of shit. I know you probably think low of me now but I just, I had to tell you."

Her eyes dropped slowly to her lap and she nibbled on her bottom lip nervously. I waited, feeling suddenly anxious, scared that she'd just get up and leave, or tell me that she couldn't go on with me, but when she sniffed and rubbed her fingers on her nose, I realized she was crying.

"I remember when I saw the first picture of you and Heidi online. The article said you two were dating now and she was kissing you." she let out in a very low tone without looking at me. "I was alone at home and I started crying. It made me realize that it was really over, it made me believe that you were over me, that the problem was not that you wanted to be single, but just that you didn't want to be with me. I cried so hard I couldn't see straight and I just... I went to the bathroom and I..." she sighed and swallowed again, closing her eyes this time. "I just swallowed all the fucking pills I found. I swallowed them all and lied down on the floor for so long I couldn't keep track of time. All I can remember is the tiles being very cold and the stomachache. It was so intense I couldn't move and It was literally the only thing that stopped me from falling asleep."

I listened to her as my eyes watered. I felt nauseous but I just swallowed hard, feeling a big lump on my throat. I could barely believe what I was hearing. I hadn't heard anything about that and to me, she always seemed so happy when she was out with my friends, even after we broke up, it was hard to believe she was sad enough to do something like that.

"Louis found me. I remember he let out so many curse words, even for him. He searched for something but couldn't find anything to make me throw up so he just sat me up in front of the toilet and pushed his fingers down my throat. Nothing had ever hurt me like that. I think I threw up for a solid ten minutes." she added, shaking her head, her eyes still closed. "Then he called his doctor and he drove me there."

I was crying. I had actual tears rolling down my cheeks but I couldn't move. I felt angry and hurt but also extremely guilty.

"Why the fuck did you do that, Olivia?" my voice was a simple murmur and I swallowed again. The lump was so big that it hurt. "Do you... did you think about how sad everyone would have been, including me? You would have left me alone in this stupid world without you?"

This time, she looked up at me and I noticed she was crying too. When she saw my tears, her face changed but she just licked her lips and sniffed.

"You left me first."

Slowly, I got up, feeling very weak, my legs wobbling slightly. I knelt in front of her and put my hands on her knees, looking up in her eyes. I had been so close to lose her forever and I didn't even know. Why didn't anyone tell me? Why didn't Louis tell me anything?

"I don't want you to ever do that again, you hear me?" I tried to be firm but my voice cracked as I kept crying and suddenly, I burst into tears, leaning my forehead on her thigh. "Don't you fucking do that ever again." I added, my mouth pressed on her jeans.

I felt her hand slide gently in my hair and the contact of her skin with mine was soothing. I turned my head to lean my cheek on her thigh and catch some air as both of my hands gripped her tight.

"I'll never do it again, Niall. I was depressed, I took antidepressants after that, and I survived this." she explained low.

"Promise me, Olivia." I asked before looking up at her. "Look me in the eyes and promise me you will never fucking do that again, no matter what happens."

She held her breath and I knew she was on the verge of tears too. She finally nodded and I gripped her thighs harder.

"I promise, Niall. " she breathed. "I swear on my love for you."

[rangikuxmatsumoto]

– halloween shenanigans

“Oh come on, you guys are no fun,” Rangiku bemoaned, a slight pout forming on her lips as arms crossed defiantly across her chest. Yes, she was pouting and yes, it actually was working. A soft sigh escaped Izuru as he threw a knowing glance towards Shuuhei. Matsumoto’s pouting was easily going to work to sway his decision; Izuru could already see it having the desired effect as Shuuhei scrambled to appease the blonde.

“Ah, I mean if you really want to, I don’t see why we can’t…” Shuuhei stammered.

“Isn’t it a little….cliché?” Izuru questioned his tone level as his gaze shifted between the other two. Rangiku had already accepted Shuuhei’s reluctant acceptance to her proposal, which meant that most likely no matter how much Izuru protested he’d be forced to tag along.

“What’s cliché?” Renji chimed as he found three of his companions in huddled discussions in the corner of the fukutaichous’ meeting room.

“Nothing,” Rangiku shot, throwing a slightly glare toward Kira before turning her attention towards the red head, “I want to go out on Halloween but someone wants to be a party pooper.” Knowing that she could shift the tide heavily in her favor, her arm coiled around Shuuhei’s before looping the other around Renji’s, drawing the two males in close with a slight tug. “What do you say Renji? Want to come with Shuuhei and me to the World of the Living for a little Halloween mischief?”

“Uh….” Taken aback by Rangiku practically strong arming him into the planning, Renji felt he had little choice in the matter. “I mean, I guess…”

“So you’re coming,” Rangiku firmly decided for Renji, on his behalf.

“I’m not being a party pooper Matsumoto-san,” Izuru lightly protested but now with the decision three against one, he knew better than to press the issue. “…Fine, I’ll come too.”

A chorus of excited squeals erupted from the blonde female as she gave the two boys still wrapped up in her hold a little squeeze before releasing them to wrap an arm around Izuru’s form in a quick hug. “You guys won’t regret it; we’re going to have so much fun!” Rangiku announced as she bounced between the three of them, “Saturday, let’s say 8 PM, sound good?” Like they had any choice in the matter at this point, they nodded reluctantly, sealing their fate. With the plan in place, Rangiku tossed them a glance over her shoulder and offered a small wave, “8 PM, don’t be late.”

“What did we just agree to?” Renji questioned, still trying to figure out the whirlwind planning session he had accidently involved himself in.

“Uh, I guess we’re going out on Halloween,” Shuuhei responded, casually fantasizing over just how scandalous Rangiku’s Halloween costume might be.

“You just agreed to pay for Matsumoto’s drinks all night you know that don’t you,” Izuru chimed in, arms crossed as he realized Renji and Shuuhei were going to be absolutely useless.

As the week wound closer to Saturday and to Halloween night, Shuuhei, Renji and Izuru came to realize the predicament that they had found themselves in – Rangiku was highly invested in this, casually dropping hints very opportunity she got about the night they were going to have. It was Thursday night, the three of them out for drinks, when their conversation shifted to the looming weekend festivities.

“Wait, are you guys dressing up?” Renji questioned, the notion of Halloween costumes still a difficult concept for him to wrap his head around.

“I mean, Rangiku said she was…” Shuuhei chimed in as he refilled his glass, throwing a glance from Renji to Izuru, “You were planning on dressing up right Izuru?”

“…I’m still not happy about going…” Izuru sullenly replied as he downed a drink.

“Come on, you don’t want Rangiku to call you a party pooper again do you?” Shuuhei was trying his best to get the other two more on board with this adventure, figuring it might win him some brownie points with Rangiku.

“Okay so then what are you dressing up as?” Renji questioned his companions, pointing a drunken finger in their direction.

“Something cool,” Shuuhei chimed, trying to sound cool but only coming off cheesy in the process.

“Something easy,” Izuru groaned as he slumped forward, head to the table in a drunken state.

‘These two aren’t any help,’ Renji thought to himself, knowing that he’d have to go to Matsumoto for help.

The next morning Renji made his way to the Tenth; with the impending evening out only a day away he knew he’d find Rangiku in a good mood. Unfortunately, she wasn’t in her office but her taichou was. Renji was ready to turn tail and run knowing that Hitsugaya probably wouldn’t be pleased to hear about their plans but he wasn’t quick enough to get out of the sight of the young captain.

“Matsumoto isn’t here,” the ever present bite to his tone gave Renji the idea that Rangiku was supposed to be in the office, and the pile of undone paperwork was even more of a dead giveaway. The young captain pinched a note between his fingers, Rangiku’s elegant script fluttered across the paper but from where he stood he couldn’t make out what she had scribbled down as an excuse, “She had an errand to run – and since Kira and Hisagi have also stopped by over the past week, I assume the four of you are up to something.”

“Uh…” How was it that Renji was constantly finding himself put on the spot, “We’re just celebrating Halloween tomorrow…” Had he said too much? Based on the piercing glare he was receiving he might have.

“I figured,” Hitsugaya offered as a groaned escaped him, leaning back against his chair he let go of the note, “And what you’ve come to try and get out of going?”

“No,” Though the thought had crossed his mind a handful of times over the week, “Uh, I don’t have a costume yet and I was going to ask Rangiku’s opinion.”

“Do something clever,” It was the only advice Toshiro would offer, returning to the paperwork in front of him, “Or funny, she’ll appreciate that.”

Renji had been looking more for an actual costume idea, these vague notions as to what to look for in a costume weren’t helping him much. All he had gotten so far was cool, easy, clever, or funny – none of which helped and with Rangiku nowhere to be found at the moment he would be forced to figure this out on his own.

As the clock ticked closed to Saturday at eight, Rangiku put the finishing touches on her costume before sprinting off to meet the boys. For once, she was actually on time, unfortunately two of her companions for the evening were early. Her stride slowed to a stop as she took in the sight before her. Shuuhei was clad nearly head to toe in leather, leather pants, belt, vest – clearly he was going for the ‘biker’ look and Izuru, oh sweet Izuru, he really had gone with something easy, well something that made him look easy, a nurses’ costume.

“What the hell are you two wearing?” Rangiku questioned, slipping between them to get a closer look at the front of their two outfits.

“Halloween costumes,” they replied in unison, as if there was any question.

“What’s wrong with what I’m wearing?” Shuuhei was the first up for judgement, Rangiku’s pale blue gaze narrowed as she turned her attention directly on him. Under her gaze, suddenly Shuuhei began to sweat, maybe his costume choice was completely wrong, Rangiku looked absolutely stunning in her witch’s costume, the low cut front, and the short frilly skirt – oh god he could feel the nosebleed coming on.

“Well, what even are you? A biker? You look like you belong at a gay bar with that outfit; all you’re missing is the leather ass-less chaps.” The bare chest, the short little croptop like leather jacket, god – the sailor style biker cap that he was now squeamishly clutching in his hands. She should have dictated their costume choices – allowing them free will in the matter clearly had been a terrible idea.

“—At least I’m not wearing a girl’s costume,” somehow Shuuhei had managed to squeak out a retort to Rangiku ripping apart his Halloween costume, trying as best he could to shift the judgment and ridicule to the other member of their party.

“It’s not a girl’s costume!” Izuru practically snapped, though there was a faint blush on his pale cheeks.

“It’s a girl’s costume. Your skirt is nearly shorter than mine and your heels are actually higher than mine,” Rangiku turned her wrath on the other blond, “But you had that in your closet already didn’t you?”

“…Maybe.”

A groan escaped Rangiku as she pinched the bridge of her nose in frustration, whatever – it was Halloween, no one was going to judge, no one was going to care – honestly, they’d probably get more attention because of how those two were dressed. “Where’s Renji?”

“He said for us to go ahead and he’d meet us, something about his costume…” Izuru chimed, tugging lightly at the hem of the sexy nurses’ costume.

“Fine, tell him where to meet us.”

Rangiku was going to need a drink or ten in order to get through the night with these two and whatever crazy costume Renji ended up showing up in. If he showed up at all, the night was early yet but as an hour or so passed by with no sign of the red head, Shuuhei and Izuru started to wonder if he had somehow managed to pull off ditching this evening out. Though, they were actually having fun, and Rangiku was enjoying herself with all the attention being paid to her and the drinks being bought for her. So when the door to the bar opened and another patron began to shove their way in, their obnoxiously large inflatable costume bumping into people left and right – the three didn’t think anything of it, until they noticed just who and what it was.

First it was Rangiku, drink poised at her lips as she caught sight of the inflatable green crown of leaves that nearly towered over the other patrons of the bar, stalking through the packed party. Her gaze lowered, catching sight of a crimson mane that was far too unique to one person, but it was the scowl on Renji’s features that made her nearly choke on her drink from the laughter that threatened. She couldn’t even get the words out before Shuuhei was in stitches at her side, having followed her vision to level on Renji.

“A pineapple!” That was all Rangiku managed, half buckled over in laughter, and clutching Shuuhei’s arm for support as the two, semi-intoxicated individuals laughed their asses off at their friend’s unfortunate choice of attire for the costume.

“Yeah, yeah, a fuckin’ laugh riot. Urahara said it was all he could get on short notice!” He snapped, trying as he might to cross his arms against the large yellow inflatable costume that consumed his entire torso.  

“You went to Urahara for a Halloween costume?” It was Izuru who at the moment was still managing to keep his composure at his friend’s costume choice, even if he could feel a slight tug at the corner of his lips threatening to give way that fact that he too found Renji’s predicament amusing. “You know he did that to mess with you, right?”

Renji, the realization dawning on him that perhaps he had been taken for a sucker by the mysterious shopkeeper, hadn’t been thrilled already and now he wasn’t happy at all.

Having managed to regain some of their composure, even if a bubble of laughter threatened to consume Rangiku the minute her gaze shifted back towards Renji, Shuuhei and Rangiku tried their best to console the red head. “No, no, it’s perfect,” she managed, waving a hand in front of her face to dry the tears that formed from laughing so hard. “You look great, it really suits you Renji.”

“…Shut up.”

[theodorecanaryhood]

Family business

Small series hope y'all like

Tom Holland x twin sister reader / Mob!Tom /Mob!Dad!Tom

You and Tom are twins, born 2 minutes apart...Tom being older. Tom's little boy Theo, aged 3, was in your care 50% of the time of Tom being out 'working'.

Rufus Del Monte owned a debt of 50k to the Holland Gang, however Tom was busy elsewhere and didn't have time to collect the debt himself.

You left Theo in Harrison's care, as Tom's first in line, Harrison was the only member outside of the Holland family that could be trusted.

You went to Rufus' place to collect the debt but you were caught off guard, being knocked down and tied up.

'Why are you here?' Was all you were asked, 3 men who were built like a brick shit house stood over you. You weren't very intimidated though.

'Here to collect a debt from your boss' you replied, that was when the man in front of you, the biggest man, hit you across the face.

'Why are you collecting? You have no business' he said again. You chuckled as the men looked at you.

'Tough guy hitting a woman, is that all you've got?' As the biggest man stepped towards you again you kicked him twice. First time in the knee and second in the groin. The second guy you hit with the chair you were tied to as you jumped to your feet and swung to the side, knocking him over and he hit his head. The third guy you slammed the chair leg down on his foot and head butted him.

As the biggest man came toward you again, you leant back on the chair and put him in a headlock with your legs.

'Don't even think about it. Untie me' you said in a low voice, intimidating.

'Fuck you' he said in response

'Did I fucking stutter? Untie me' you said angry, the man took out a pocket knife and cut the ropes.

'Appreciate that' you said as you knocked him out with a punch. Standing up, you walked over to the man behind you, who was laying on the ground holding his nose.

'You bitch, you broke my nose'

'Really? What a shame' you said as you walked over to him and pressed the heel of your stiletto into his shoulder.

'Where's your Boss, Rufus?' You asked, the man didn't answer so you dug the heel in a bit making him groan in pain. 'Just so you know, I have no problem with torture, so where, is he?'

' ...' the man mumbled, you leant down a bit,

'Sorry, I didn't quite catch that' you said sarcastically,

'Fuck you' the man on the floor said, you stood straight with your hands on your hips,

'Is there an echo? Why do people keep saying that? Guess I'm doing something wrong' you lifted your leg up from the mans shoulder and hovered over his left eye, 'maybe I should take an eye instead, or both. Maybe some teeth'

'Please' he whimpered, you laughed,

'Where is your boss?' You asked again calmly, the man pointed to a back room,

'There, he's in there' you smiled at the man as he answered. Kneeling next to him and offering a knockout blow to him.

...

Rufus Del Monte was not one to fight with the Holland's, he would rather run a mile. Or in his current case, try and climb out of an 8 story window...which won't open.

You burst through the door and stand in the middle of his brown and cream coloured office, looking at him with dark eyes.

'Going somewhere?' You ask mockingly, Rufus just looks at you shocked as he takes in your form. A woman, y/h/c, y/e/c, a tight outfit (dress or pantsuit...your choice).

'You're not....you're erm....not' Rufus stumbles his words as he turns to completely face you.

'Not what?' You answer confused, Rufus just keeps staring at you,

'Tom, you're not him'

'I'm y/n Holland, Tom's my twin brother' you reveal as you walk around to Rufus' side of the desk, 'you owe us something'.

Rufus looks relieved as you won't hurt him like Tom would. And will do if he finds him.

'Here' Rufus says as he puts an envelope of money on the table, 'that's it, all of it. 3k'.

'All of it?' You ask, you look at the envelope then back at Rufus, 'it's short by 47, 50k is what you owe, not 3' you say calmly as Rufus begins to shit himself on the spot.

'Ok, ok. Tell Tom, Mr Holland I will have his money soon. I just need time' Rufus says,

'You've already had 3 weeks mate. How much more time do you need?' You ask serious, Rufus looks at you and you can see he's panicking.

'Fine, I'll make you a deal' you begin, '12 hours, you will give Tom the rest of his money in 12 hours or' you grab Rufus' right hand and hold it on the table, you then pull out a knife and sever Rufus' pinky, 'this little piggy won't be coming home' you say humorous as you wrap the finger in a hanky.

'My finger, oh my God' Rufus screams in pain and shock,

'Put pressure on it at the knuckle, wrap it tightly in cloth or material. In 12 hours this finger can still be attached, unless you bleed out first' you say, Rufus looks at you, regretting not jumping out the bloody window.

'I...' Rufus stumbled again,

'Give us the money and it'll be fine. But believe me when I say this Mr Del Monte, if you don't give Tom the rest of the money, you'll wish you did bleed to death' you say as you walk out the door with the envelope of money.

...

Tom had a shit day and was exhausted from interrogating lowlife shitheads, who thought the mob owed them something.

Tom was sitting in his office going through some files when 3 year old Theo came running through the door, smiling happily.

'Daddy' Theo cheered running into Tom's arms, Tom smiled back and picked up his little boy, kissing him on the head,

'How's my little man?' Tom asked, Theo began to talk on and tell Tom about his day with Uncle Harrison, Tom noticed Y/n wasn't in the conversation and wondered where you were. That was when you walked in the office.

'Auntie y/n' Theo cheered and ran to you, you smiled and picked Theo up,

'Hey little prince' you said as you covered Theo in kisses. Tom just looked at you suspiciously as you handed Theo to Harrison,

'Would you mind giving Theo a story before I start dinner Oz?' You asked, you always called Harrison Oz as a play on to his last name, Harrison just nodded and took Theo out the room as you shut the office door. Now was just you and Tom in the room, you looked at him.

'Ok, I know what you're gonna say, but Theo was with Harrison and I was collecting a debt on your behalf' you said as Tom raised an eyebrow at you,

'Collecting a debt? From who?' Tom asked you, you put the envelope of money on the desk,

'Rufus Del Monte, he's only paid up 3k, but he is giving us the other 47k within the next 12 hours' you reveal,

'How would you know?' Tom asked you confused,

'Cause if he doesn't he won't be getting a certain pinky finger back' you say, Tom looks at you shocked,

'You cut off his finger?' Tom asks you, you just nod.

'Yeah, also threatened that you would do worse' you winked at your brother, 'dinner time' you went to the door,

'Y/n, you are a savage' Tom said to you, you just turned your head slightly and smiled at him.

Part 2 coming soon

[lovebitesimagines]

Dangerous Love- Roses.

So here is the third chapter of dangerous love. I definitely plan on this being quite a long story, and have so much planned for it. So excited to see where this goes. I hope you guys are enjoying reading, as much as I'm enjoying writing it!

Masterlist.

[1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6] [7] [8] [9] [10]

Tags: @namelesslosers

Wanna be on the tag list for this series? Drop me a message!

Warnings: Swearing.

This is a very fluffy little chapter!

It’s time for the first date with Alfie Solomons. Will the instant attraction get too much?

YOUR POV

Twenty-four hours. When the words cascade out from between your pair of crimsoned lips, it seems like a dreadfully long time. The words drag and feel heavy as they appear into the atmosphere, your mind whirling as it hopelessly attempts to comprehend the almost endless list of opportunities that lay in front of you. Yet the reality is far bleaker. Twenty-four hours sneaks past you, as you lay distracted by other concerns that roughly steal your attention. Before you know it twenty-four hours has slipped through your fingers as if you were clutching a fist full of hot sand.

You sat hopelessly on the edge of your bed, your woollen blanket softly scratching the underside of your fleshy, white thighs. Your skin was slightly damp with the remnants of the bath you had finished taking a few minutes ago, the small droplets of water slowly sliding down your collarbone and falling onto the soft fabric of your underwear. You ran a hand slowly through your hair, letting it fan and fall back onto your shoulders as a you sighed gently again in despair. Your eyes fell to the clock on your wall, its’ hands moving past frustratingly quickly. Tommy told you yesterday evening that you were to meet Alfie at 6pm tonight. It felt that you blinked, and suddenly it was 5pm on the night in question. You had less than an hour left to get ready and get to the club. Motivation was non-existent in your body, as your mind entertained the worries that governed your thoughts. Sure, the prospect of going on a date with Alfie Solomons wasn’t such a repulsive idea. After all, he was roguishly handsome. What had distressed you the most, was the fact that your brother had schemed behind your back and organised it, disguising it as ‘beneficial for the business’. You knew Tommy well and knew that he had other ideas on his mind.

A gentle knock sounded out from the other side of your bedroom, stealing you away from your thoughts.

“(Y/N)? Can I come in?” Aunt Pol asked, her voice soft. You sensed the sympathy and regret hidden in her tone, something which Aunt Pol only let others witness on rare occasions. Tonight, must be one of them, you thought.

“Yes” you called out, sighing warily before pushing yourself up from your bed. Aunt Pol walked in, her hands full of a captivating shade of red. Your eyes where instantly drawn to the fabric that she held between her fingers, allowing yourself a few seconds to admire the material. Your eyes drifted up to meet hers, a questioning look playing upon your face.

“It’s a dress” she explained, noticing your expression. She walked over to where you stood, laying the dress upon the bed where you had been sitting before standing back to admire the outfit beside you. “Your mum brought it, but your father never permitted her to wear it. I think you should wear it, as one last fuck you to the men that continually attempt to control our lives”.

You turned to face your aunt, tears softly pooling underneath your bottom eyelashes, before you pulled her into a tight hug. You knew she had faced similar horrors in her life from various men, as you had at the hands of your father. You both stayed like that in silence for a few, precious moments. Words where not exchanged between you both, as they were not needed to understand. You both knew.

“Right, you need to try it on” Aunt Pol smiled softly as she pulled away, nodding towards the dress. You grinned in excitement, your fingers trailing delicately along the beautiful red material that was welcomingly soft underneath your touch. You picked it up, sliding it over your head, before walking over to examine your appearance in the mirror, the hem of the dress skimming the floor slightly as you moved. You gasped in shock as your eyes took in what the mirror showed you. You looked beautiful.The dress seductively clung to your body, beautifully enhancing your already prominent curves. The straps sat across your upper arms, lowering into a ‘V’ shape which illuminated your breasts. You reached out for a lipstick that sat on your bedside table, smearing the cherry red substance over your lips. You brushed your hair over your shoulder, grateful that you had inherited your mothers natural, loose curls. You turned to face Aunt Pol, your eyes twinkling with gratitude.

“Thank you” you breathed, feeling unable to form a coherent sentence. She reached out for your hand, a sad smile playing upon her lips.

“It’s time” she whispered, giving your hand a soft squeeze in reassurance. You nodded in response, your stomach giving an uneasy dance as Aunt Pol led you downstairs.

The boys where all sat around the kitchen table, their faces depicting a variety of emotions. Arthur had a frown furrowing in between his bushy eyebrows, his fingers tapping lightly against an empty whiskey bottle. Finn was etching a pattern into the table, the soft wood collecting underneath his fingernails. John was intently watching Finn, his eyes glazed over as a toothpick sat in between his lips. Tommy was the only sibling that performed as if he were calm about the situation, yet the countless cigarette stubs that had fallen in front of him told a different story. They looked up at the sound of your footsteps, life being brought back into the room. Tommy glowered unhappily at your appearance, bringing another cigarette to his lips to light.

“Fucking hell, you look like a girl” Finn laughed, breaking the silence.

“Still throw a better hit than you, and you know it” you chuckled, lightly punching his arm. Arthur and John sniggered, standing up to greet you.

“If he touches you tonight, you know where to hit ‘im” Arthur looked at you gravely, before pulling you into a tight hug. You smiled softly, breathing the familiar scent of whiskey and cologne.

“I’ll be okay. I learned from the best” you smiled softly, as you pulled away. Your comment seemed to appease him, as he nodded in agreement, a rare blush appearing upon his cheeks.

“Sure did” he mumbled as he walked away, his chest swelling with pride at your words.

“Here. Put this somewhere” John pressed a gun into the palm of your hand, the cool metal a contrast against your body heat.

“I don’t think she’ll be needing that” Aunt Pol snapped, snatching the gun from you and placing it on the kitchen dresser, throwing John an angry side glare. You smiled softly at your brother, as he looked down sheepishly.

You heard a chair scrape back against the floor and looked up to meet Tommys’ eyes. He looked back at you, an emotion you couldn’t quite place playing behind his eyes.

“That’s mums dress” he stated, his words having a hidden meaning playing between them. Silence fell in the room, covering it like an uncomfortably heavy blanket. Your skin prickled slightly in discomfort, but you continued to stare defiantly at Tommy, ignoring the tension that began to rise between the four walls.

The silence was interrupted by a sharp rap on the door. You swallowed softly, repeating Aunt Pols’ words.

“It’s time”.

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

The car pulled up outside the club, gravel crunching underneath the wheels as you came to a stop.

“Here miss” the driver announced- someone picked out by Alfie, who was no doubt paid a handsome sum for his role this morning. You swallowed nervously, pushing open the car door. Your wobbled slightly as your feet pressed against the uneven surface as you stood up, your hand desperately clutching at a wall for support. As you steadied yourself, you took in the scene before you, finally noticing the place where you were to spend your evening.

There, looming over in front of you, stood a magnificent marble white building, thick pillars positioned outside the entrance. Steps led up to entrance, the sound of a jazz band spilling out from the open door. A variety of rose bushes adorned the bottom of the walls- red, white and pink petals scattered amongst the leaves and gravel. It was an incredible contrast, the beautiful spatters of colour within nature pressed up against the marble. You had been told that Alfie would meet you outside the club. Your eyes scanned over the groups of men and women in search for him. Couples arm in arm made their way past you into the building, their faces full of excitement about the night ahead of them. A rainbow of fabric continued to move before your eyes, your nose filling with the scent of cheap perfume and the night air. Snippets of pointless conversation drifted up to your ears, whispered declarations of love floating around the air. Your chest stung with jealousy. If only your evening could be filled with the innocence of a first love. You moved forward towards the entrance, your eyes continuing to scan the crowds that flowed in front of you.

Then you saw Alfie, taking a sharp intake of breath as you took in the sight of him. Everyone around you both became a blur, as if they had been paint smudged upon a canvas. Your heartbeat instantly quickened its pace. He stood near a rose bush, glancing down nervously at the floor. The unexpected show of vulnerability made your heart miss a beat in its nervous rhythm. He was dressed smartly in a crisp black suit, the fabric hugging his muscles. He wore his trademark black hat, a few strands of his brown hair escaping from underneath the wide rim. His beard was recently trimmed, a lot less unkempt since the last time you had seen him. You made your way towards Alfie, his head turning to see who was walking towards him. His grey eyes brightened up at the sight of you, a smile spreading over his face as he scanned over your appearance.

“Holy fuck” he whispered, offering his arm out for you to hold. Your lips formed into a smirk at his reaction, the response to your appearance being exactly what you wanted. You felt accomplished at making this feared gangster almost speechless, the affect you had on him evident on his face.

“Now, that’s no way to talk to a lady” you cheekily retorted, your fingers gently wrapping around his upper arm. You gulped softly at the contact, heat rising in you causing your cheeks to flush. You felt as if a million miniscule electric shocks where coursing through your body from the touch. Your fingers trembled as he led you towards the entrance. You hoped that he did not notice the anxious display. Now was not the time to be nervous.

You were a Shelby, and Shelbys’ don’t show nerves.

***************************************************************************ALFIES’ POV

Being a business man, Alfie was a firm believer in being on time. He believed that lateness was only disrespectful. Admittedly, he was slightly more earlier than the time him and Tommy Shelby had agreed upon. Nerves had lit a fire underneath him, and he was ready a lot more sooner than he had anticipated upon. After annoying Ollie with a million questions regarding his appearance, he had driven to the club. He had sat for a few minutes with his hands grasped upon the steering wheel, his knuckles turning his white, before he got the courage to stand outside. Looking upon the building, he was worried that he had chosen somewhere slightly too grand. Maybe this was too much for a first date, he thought, before shaking the thought away from his mind. This was only a business arrangement, something that would benefit him and the Shelby family. Alfie fought down the idea that this could ever be something more. There was no way you would be interested in someone like him, and even if you somehow happened to be, there was no way your family would allow it.

He had begun to think you would never show up, that somehow Tommy Shelby had gone back on his word. Anger was overcome by disappointment, as he glanced down at the floor. This would be a first. Him, Alfie Solomons, being stood up by a woman and a fucking Shelby at that. He chewed on the inside of his cheek, listening to the conversations of adoration that where so cruelly spoken within ear shot. It had been a secret desire of his, to be loved completely by a woman. He was yet to find that attachment in which would become his whole world. Sure, he’d had relationships with women, but they had soon shown that they had only used and slept with him for the status, not for who he was as a person. He was aware that his reputation preceded him, and he knew that not all of what was said was necessarily well perceived. His somewhat impressive ability to become hot-headed quicker than Arthur Shelby, was well known. Both women and men feared him. But the truth was, Alfie would never hurt a woman. Love was his ultimate weakness, and that was something he feared would one day become common knowledge.

Alfie looked up at the sound of footsteps approaching, his face splitting into a large grin at the sight of you. He enjoyed the way your dress softly caressed your curves, exposing carefully planned areas of skin. His mind ran wild at the image of your pale skin, highlighted by the soft exposure to moonlight. He marvelled at your beauty, which utterly entranced him. He had never been exposed to such an enticing woman in all his life, his mind struggling to think of words that would do justice to describe your appearance.

“Holy fuck” he whispered, robotically holding out his arm for her to hold as she came close.

“Now that’s no way to talk to a lady” she chuckled, his heart warming at her cheeky response. He felt her fingers daintily wrap around his muscular upper arm and was instantly focused upon how amazing such a simple form of contact could make him feel. He was grateful that Ollie hadn’t trimmed too much of his beard, as it disguised the blush that had begun to form upon his cheeks.

Alfie led the way into the club, the sound of music becoming deafeningly loud. His eyes scanned the room in search for a quieter place, unashamedly desperate to be able converse with the beautiful woman on his arm in a little privacy. Spotting a small booth in the corner of the room, he guided her towards it before sitting down, pulling her gently beside him. He suddenly became hyper-aware of the closeness of your contrasting two frames, awkwardly shuffling away slightly to create some distance between you both, ignoring the dejected way your face fell slightly. He looked around the room, twiddling his thumbs slightly as his mind strived to find a suitable topic of conversation.

“Tell me, Mr. Solomons, why did you bring me here if you had no intention to dance or talk to me?” you asked softly. He cursed himself under his breath, realising that a small amount of time had passed since you had sat down.

“Tell ya’ the truth love, right, I’m just still in shock that your fuckin’ brothers let ya’ out” he turned to face her, “and I’m just tryin’ to find the right things to say to ya’, yeah, that won’t fuckin’ scare you away”.

“And why you would you be so concerned of scaring me away?” you raised an eyebrow slightly, your eyes focused upon his. Alfie enjoyed the unwavering confidence that you displayed, finding it an extremely rare feature in a woman. They usually trembled under his stare, but yet you gave nothing away that would imply you were feeling uneasy.

“Because, yeah, I don’t want you’re fuckin’ brothers to put a bullet in me” he chuckled, glancing away for a brief moment before meeting your eyes again, his voice suddenly becoming soft. “And because you’re the most beautiful fuckin’ woman I’ve ever laid my eyes on, and I can’t imagine never bein’ able to see ya’ again angel”. He cursed himself again, annoyed at himself for how effortlessly you made his words spill out. Alfie watched as you shyly glanced away, enjoying the light shade of pink his confession made you turn.

“Come dance with me?” you asked, pushing yourself up off the chair. Alfie felt a small pang of disappointment as he watched you move further away from him, his mind spinning with excuses and ways to get you back beside him. He knew that without his cane, he would not be much use up on his feet for very long. He also feared that if you became aware of this, you’d view him as fragile and he would never see you again. A woman needed a man who would be able to protect them, and although Alfie had no doubt that he would be able too, he feared you’d think his cane would only slow you down. You were younger than him after all, and he was concerned that one day the spell you were both under would break, and you would see him for who he truly was.

“I’m afraid I’m not much of a dancer angel” he smiled warmly, leaning back in the chair. “I’ll watch you dance”. Your lips formed into a pout at his words, his eyes glancing down at them. Alfie shivered softly, imagining how soft they would be under his own.

“Come on. I’ll teach you” you grabbed him, pulling at his arm. Alfie laughed heartily, the sound surprising him- it had been a while since he had laughed like that- allowing himself to be moved up off his seat. You both made your way to a small area in front of your booth, where you were able to hear the music.

Alfie wrapped his arms around your small frame, enjoying the way you felt in his embrace. He felt you rest your head against him, hoping that you wouldn’t be able to hear the way his heart threatened to break out from his chest at your touch. He swayed in time to the music, getting lost in the sensation of your contact. He relished in how your body felt, pressed slightly up against his own, ignoring how his groin twitched. Alfie pressed his lips against your hair, closing his eyes in at your scent, a welcome difference from the strong perfume within the room that made his eyes sting.

He could get lost in this moment forever.

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

It was soon the end of the night, the band beginning to wind down and the crowds beginning to dwindle. Alfie had lost track of how much time had passed, with you within his arms. He admittedly did feel a little stiff, his back beginning to ache. But when he looked down at you and saw the way your face had lit up with each dance, each twinge of pain was utterly worth it.

“Think it’s time to go angel” he murmured, reluctantly pulling away from you, leading you both outside. Stepping outside, the cool night air hit your bare skin. Alfie saw you shiver, watching the way goose bumps rose upon your exposed flesh. With a shrug, he pulled off his suit jacket, and wrapped it around your shoulders, grateful for another excuse to touch you.

Leading you down the steps, he noticed the way your eyes appreciated the roses that surrounded the building. Plucking one from its stem, he pulled you close to him. He looked down gently at you, appreciating the way the moonlight accentuated your beauty, how your eyelashes casted soft shadows upon your cheeks, how your eyes glistened and looked inquisitively back into his own. He tucked the rose behind your ear, his fingers gently moving against your cheek, tingling in response to how soft your skin felt under his touch. He leaned his forehead against yours, your eyes closing as you both took in the moment.

“This wasn’t just business was it, Mr. Solomons?” your breath fell soft against his cheeks. He shook his head in response, running his hands down your arms, his eyes opening in shock as he felt you move away. He looked questioningly at you, searching for a reason as to why you had moved away so abruptly. “I need to go” you whispered, moving towards the car that had pulled up to collect you. “Goodbye Alfie”.

Alfie felt his heart sunk at the sight of you leaving, feeling unable to prevent you from departing. He watched the car drive away into the distance, making a mental note to question the driver in the morning. He sighed frustratingly, kicking up the gravel as he walked. He knew your response was justified. You both could not fall for each other, it was against everything. But yet, he knew that you felt the same as him, even after such a brief amount of time. The connection between you both was undeniable, the chemistry so strong it already began to dominate and take hold of you both. Amongst it all, the same thought kept on cruelly repeating itself in his mind.

A Shelby and Solomons where never made to work.

[self-indulgent-stories]

Found Chapter 3: Pining and the Past

!!!!!!CONTAINS MENTIONS OF RAPE AND ABUSE!!!!!! !!!!!!READ AT YOUR OWN DISCRETION!!!!!!

ao3 link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/21767074/chapters/54558787

FIRST PREVIOUS NEXT -> IN PROGRESS

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Lotor woke up, semi-rested. He could still feel the mental exhaustion, and now the dreaded pain and soreness that came from last night’s battering. He sighed softly, moving off of Maken who was sound asleep. Lotor smiled fondly, admiring Maken’s beauty. His black curls were splayed across the pillow, plump pink lips parted slightly, and now that Lotor had moved, his hands were parallel to each other across his torso. Lotor moved slowly off the bed, mentally promising his friend he would return after a quick trip to the bathroom. It was early, way too early for Lotor to be up today. Today was a sleep in day, and Lotor made it a point to stick to them. 

After his bathroom visit, he found Maken on his side, curled up in the blankets. Lotor could not help but chuckle silently and crawl in bed beside him. He faced Maken’s sleeping form, strands of his hair covering his face. Lotor smiled softly, tucking them behind his ear and grazing his fingers along Maken’s cheek. Lotor had the idle thought of doing this for the rest of his life, just laying here in bed with someone he cared for, not that he did not care for Allura, just an even deeper connection than what they had now. Maken made a cute noise in his sleep, somewhere between a moan and a grunt, which earned a silent giggle from Lotor. He looked at Maken’s lips again and he sighed. How he longed to have just one kiss with him, just to have his curiosity satisfied. Maybe, if he did this right, Maken would not wake up. Lotor takes a deep breath and works up the nerve to slowly inch his way towards Maken’s lips. His lips meet Maken’s just barely and he can feel the warm breath coming from his nose. Lotor feels the magnetic pull towards Maken and he’s fighting it with all his might. He is not willing to go that far, at least not yet. Unable to kiss his lips, Lotor opts for his forehead. He closes his eyes and just stays there for a moment. 

“Thank you so much,” Lotor says, even quieter than a whisper. “You mean the world to me Angel, you really do. I don’t know what I would do without you.” He huffs out a small laugh. “I probably would have offed myself months ago.” Maken stirs quietly and Lotor backs up, allowing Maken to move as he pleased. He simply turned over, allowing Lotor to scoop him in his arms, lay him on his chest, and whisper and leave ghosting kisses in his curly hair. 

“You know, I think about my future a whole hell of a lot for someone my age. Perhaps it’s because of my upbringing, being the child of two parents too rich and too strung out on cocaine to care about me.” Lotor strokes Maken’s hair softly, making him sigh softly and nuzzle into his chest. Lotor chuckles gently. “Every time I imagine my future, you are always in it Angel. No matter what. Rarely are you my friend in these fantasies of mine. No, you’re my lover. And it is paradise. But it’s just a thought, isn’t it?” Lotor presses his lips to the top of Maken’s hair, feeling at peace. “Makenziel Alexandre Lightwood, after knowing you for two years of my life, you are single handedly the best thing that could have ever happened to me.” Lotor pauses and his heart stutters. If he says this outloud, it would make it true and Lotor would have to face the consequences eventually. 

Well, fuck it. Maken was not going to wake up any time soon. 

“I… I love you, Maken. Truly and dearly. More than I have ever loved Allura.” Lotor confessed. He held his breath, waiting for Maken to wake up, but nothing. He sighed in relief, and simply held Maken until he fell back asleep himself. 

Maken wakes up, nuzzling his nice, solid, warm, pillow...wait, that’s not a pillow. He stayed still, hearing the slow thumping of a sleeping heart. He moved slowly, looking at Lotor who was resting peacefully. Maken’s heart thudded in his chest like thunder rolling in the skies. A blush bloomed across his face. This was intimate, too intimate for Maken and his deep, long running feelings for Lotor. He could do it when he was comforting the other, but now that it was over? Oh fuck no. Maken carefully rolled over to the side, but Lotor’s arm caught him midway though and pulled him. Maken could only follow as not to disturb the other. 

“Mmm~ warm~ I could hold you forever, my dearest~” Lotor sleepily muttered, pulling Maken in close from behind. Maken definitely would have fainted if he were not already in bed. Lotor managed to tuck himself into Maken so neatly and tightly, Maken could feel everything, including the morning wood Lotor was working up. Maken tried to gently wrestle away from Lotor before he did something he would regret later, but his results were overall unsuccessful. Maken sighed softly, biting his lip. Maybe this was not so bad. He could get used to Lotor being tangled up in him like this. This felt far too good for him. Lotor was not even his and here Maken is, wanting a kept man, albeit abused, but kept nonetheless. Well, at least today he had a cam show to keep his mind occupied. 

Lotor woke up, finding himself in quite a nice little knot with Maken. “Angel? Are you up?” Lotor asked, sleep thickening his voice. 

“Yeah. Been up for a while. Man, you sure have a death grip in your sleep.” Maken joked, turning to see Lotor’s face and a surge of emotions ran through his heart. Lotor was so handsome, laying there freshly awoken. Lotor had a sleepy smile, his deep blue eyes were warm and content. None of the usual fear or worry hiding behind his eyes. Lotor was, at least for now, at peace. Maken nearly swooned from the beauty. This was intimate, far too intimate. Maken’s lips ached to kiss the other, to show how much he loved him, to have the other right then and there. But, he refused. Maken painstakingly ripped himself away from Lotor. He had to leave now or else he was going to do something he would really regret. 

“I have a cam show tonight. If you’re staying, I’ll be quiet.” Maken said, getting up and grabbing a towel along with his phone to play music. 

“I believe it would be best for me to stay away from Allura tonight, so yes, I will be staying at home tonight.” Lotor said, sitting up and scratching his head sleepily. “You won’t have to worry about being too quiet. I’ll be sure to have my headphones on.” Lotor said with a soft chuckle. Little did Maken know, his biggest contributor was staring at him right now. Lotor was definitely going to be watching tonight. He wanted to know more about Maken and, although it was perhaps a bit underhanded and sneaky, he wanted to know the touchier subjects of his past. Things Maken still only eludes to and never fully talks about, even with Lotor. What better way than the anonymity of the internet?

Maken gives a small smile and nods. “Well, I’ll be off then.” Maken said, turning to go to the bathroom. Maken turned the water on the highest setting just to burn away the emotions he felt. He really wanted to kiss Lotor while they were in bed together. Lotor was just so handsome and he definitely did not deserve the abuse he was getting from that bitch, Allura. He sighed. No, today was going to be a good day. There was nothing to worry about as Lotor is safe at home, he was going to get paid for his services today, everything was going to be just fine. Maken returned to his room to find Lotor missing from the bed. The sound of the microwave traveled through the rooms. Ah, so he got hungry. Should have made him some breakfast last night, Maken idly thought as he dressed for the day. He checked his phone, looking at his account balance. “Good, just enough for a few new lingerie outfits.” Maken smiled as he called Shiro. 

“Shiro, my dear. It’s me. Did you have a good time last night? Good, I’m glad you’re always satisfied with my services. Listen, could you come pick me up? I want to go shopping today. No, you don’t have to get me anything if you don’t want to. You might have to help me choose though. I might need some big, strong muscles to help little old me out. You’ll do it? Oh, thank you darling! I’ll be sure to give you a little treat as a thank you. What time will you be here? Oh! You’re close by already? Good, I’ll be out soon!” Maken said hanging up the phone and rushing out, grabbing his necessities. 

“Lotor, I’ll be back before or around 8. Behave yourself~” Maken cooed with a smile. Lotor could not help but laugh. 

“Of course. No parties here. Though I’ll leave a bit of weed and rum for you.” Lotor called back with a smile. Maken was gone in a flash after Lotor’s quip. 

Hours passed and Lotor did not even realize it. He had done his normal routine: shower, hygiene, dress, hair. Then he sat down after eating and just did not move. He stared blankly at the television which was off with a now cold mug of lemon tea. His mind was somehow both blank and racing, as if it were running in circles in pure darkness. At this point in time, Lotor as a person did not exist. He did not realize that he was crying, nor did he realize he was shaking pretty badly. He never realized that he had tangled his hair and nearly pulled fistfuls out of his scalp in distress. His body ran on auto-pilot, carrying him to the bathroom to throw up because of the disgust with himself about not being better as a son, as a boyfriend. He laid on the bathroom floor, sick still lingering on his lips. He had no real will to get up. He just wanted to not exist. Then, the door opened.

Wait, what time was it? “Lotor?” Maken’s voice rang through the halls. Ah, how lovely it sounded; it was one of Lotor’s favorite things to hear. “Lotor?” He called again. Lotor shook his head and got up, splashing water on his face and brushing the sick from his mouth. He brushed his hair, somehow detangling it quickly. 

“In the bathroom.” Lotor called he hoped loud enough for Maken to hear it. Maken set his things down in his room, happy that he got some new things he could show off on his show. He then went to the bathroom, seeing the pure exhaustion in Lotor’s eyes, despite him brushing his hair. Maken bit the inside of his lip. 

“Rough day today?” Maken asked, rubbing small circles on Lotor’s back. Lotor looks down and sighs. 

“That obvious, huh?” 

“No, but I know you. I can see how exhausted you are. Come on, let’s get you to bed.” Maken said with a soft smile, gently pulling Lotor to his room. Lotor followed, half dragging his feet. He was stripped of his shirt and Maken was going for his pants but stopped. Maken shook his head gently and pushed Lotor onto his bed and pulled his blanket over him.  

“Do you need me to come tonight? Will you be okay?” Maken asked, sitting on the edge of Lotor’s bed. Lotor shook his head. 

“I believe I will be alright.” Lotor says with a soft smile that fails to reach his eyes. Maken opened his mouth and was stopped by Lotor raising his hand slightly. “I promise to come to you if I need you again.” He reassured. Maken gave a soft smile with a sigh. 

“Alright, well. I’m going to start my show now. If you can’t sleep in say, an hour, come to me. I’ll make you some tea and we can lay down together again tonight.” Maken said, moving a strand of hair out of Lotor’s face. He got up and left Lotor’s room, gently closing the door behind him. He sighed softly, worry filling his veins. Maken shook it off quickly. He had a show to do. He could only hope that Lotor could handle himself for at least an hour. Maken was there to make people forget about their worries and focus on him and how good he looked on camera. His job was to get dicks in hands and cum in tissues. 

Maken returns to his room, setting up the lighting and his camera so he can easily be visible from the bed and his desk. He sighed in content when everything looked fine. He did a mic check so that his fans and patrons could hear his cute little moans properly. Then it was finally time to put on his cute lingerie. Maken opted for the white lace and garter belts that connected to his thigh high black and white socks. Maken smiled looking in his mirror. He felt good looking so cute, but it was missing something. Maken pondered for a moment and gasped. He reached for his white leather collar with chains and rings, placing it firmly around his neck. “Perfect.” He said with a smile. And so the show began. Maken clicked the button to record and send a notification that he was live. 

Lotor took out his computer once his phone vibrated. Maken, or rather, HeavensLustfulCreation, had gone live. Lotor logged into his account under the name of EmperorOfTheGalaxy and watched Maken on screen. 

Maken seemingly glowed as he saw his favorite patron, EmperorOfTheGalaxy, log on. He really was going to get paid tonight! “Hi there! Welcome back~” Maken cooed looking into the camera. He sat at his desk for now, waiting until more people showed up.

Lotor always thought Maken was beautiful, even as he was barely clothed and outfitted with a pretty collar that he wanted to tug on. Lotor sighed in content. He knew that others could see him, but just for tonight he wanted this vision of heaven to himself. Lotor did not even feel like getting off tonight; he just wanted to talk, but he absolutely did not want anyone to see or hear him besides himself. Was...was that selfish of him? Wanting Maken all to himself? Was this a sign of jealousy? Lotor hoped not. 

Soon the chat room was full and Maken spoke up. “Hello master~” He purred out, slowly blinking his doe like eyes with a sultry smile. “Welcome back~ I missed you~” He giggled. The chat started moving again, some requests, some responding to Maken himself, some dirty comments about how he looked. “Tonight’s public session may be short, Master. I have other obligations to attend to, is that okay?” He asked cutely, settling the already stirring upset comments which quickly settled. “Good. I’m glad you forgive me~Now look what I bought for you earlier today master~” Maken said, getting up and moving from his desk to show off his lingerie and thigh high socks. Donations started pouring in: one dollar here, five dollars there, ten dollars occasionally, and rarely, twenty dollars.

Lotor knew the game. Most of them were saving up to bid for his private show. Lotor would always try to tie with the others to join in on watching Maken do lewd acts for money. If he were Lotor’s he would never have to do this again. He knew Maken enjoyed it and found it fun, but...Lotor feared his jealousy and possessiveness would eventually get in the way of it. The only way Lotor would really allow it is if he were on camera with Maken, showing the world that Maken was his and his alone. Lotor paused. This was all hypothetical of course. There was no real reason to start being so possessive and jealous over someone that was not his, all the while being under Allura’s claw, right? Once he shook himself from his thought trance, Lotor tuned back in to Maken’s cam show. 

“Alright Master, it’s bidding time~ You all know the rules and if you don’t, I’ll explain. Master is bidding for a private show of just me and master, unless there is a tie. I will do anything Master asks of me in the private show, so long as I personally am comfortable with it. Bidding starts at twenty dollars~ good luck master~” Lotor checked his bank account one last time. Perfect, plenty of money to blow. He tossed his phone to the side and began bidding. People were matching and raising the ante but Lotor knew better.

Maken had a smile on his face, surely from seeing the money roll in. He had already made over 500 dollars just from doing a little show of his new lingerie and everyone fighting over him. In a weird sort of way, it made him feel good. Then he saw it. Maken’s eyes widened in shock and the chat came to a halt. The banner read, “EmperorOfTheGalaxy: $500”. No one could top that. Not this time. A blush spread on Maken’s cheeks, stunned that someone, one single person, would spend that much on him. Of course he expected EmperorOfTheGalaxy to donate quite a lot, but 500 dollars, just like that? Maken opened his mouth to speak but nothing came out. He blinked, shook his head and got back into character. “Would Master like to up the ante? Or shall I end the bidding?” The chat slowly started, some left, all calling for it to end. “Well, congratulations Master EmperorOfTheGalaxy! You’ve won the bid. Let me end this stream so that I can contact you personally~To all my Masters, thank you for your donations and I wish you the best of luck next time~Goodnight~” And with that, Maken turned off the stream and clicked on EmperorOfTheGalaxy’s page, contacting him quickly. Lotor quickly accepted the chat and muted his mic. Lotor would die if Maken found out it was him. Especially like this. 

“Master, thank you so much for the donation! I have never gotten a single donation that big! So this is very much appreciated. Now, how may I serve Master tonight?” 

Lotor licked his lips and began typing. 

I don’t want anything sexual tonight. I just want to talk.

Maken was taken aback. He...did not want anything sexual? Surely, that can’t be right. Maken leaned in closer to the screen. No, he read that right. “Well, alright. If that’s what Master wants. I’m gonna put on a sweater. I get a little chilly in this skimpy outfit if I don’t have to do anything that would make me warmer.” He giggled, grabbing a white sweater and putting it on. Meanwhile, Lotor typed.

I am...going through a rough time relationship wise.  I am...being abused.  Have...have you gone through something similar?

Lotor pauses for a moment. 

I am sorry for such a heavy topic. I just...feel a little alone, I guess. Like, no one would believe me because I am a man. 

Maken read the messages and bit his lip. This person just needed someone to connect to. He understood that feeling all too well. He took a deep breath and sighed. “Alright. I’ll tell you my story, as long as this doesn’t leave this chat, okay?” Maken asked. 

Yes, of course.

“I have been abused nearly all my life.” Maken sighed again. “My father, he locked me up in my room for fear I would turn out like my rebellious older brother who got kicked out before I was born. He hated me because my mother died in childbirth.” Maken bit the inside of his lip. “I was beaten as well. Whipped, cut, slapped, you name it, my father did it. That’s why I don’t do things where my back is turned unless I have something covering me.” Maken continues. “My father suffers from Schizophrenia, to the point where he believes that he is God’s very own mouth. One of his episodes, found me pinned to the floor all while screaming at me, ‘The light of God will enter into you, boy and cleanse you from your sins.’ then proceeding to brand me with a sun symbol. I believe that was after the time he found out that I loved men.” Maken said, biting the inside of his lip. Ghosts of pain radiated from his scars. “Another time, he cuts my back saying, ‘You have wronged me, angel, and you have sinned against my words. For that, you must give up your grace.’ That produced two mirrored scars as he was cutting off the wings he thought I had.” Maken explained. He took a deep breath and sighed. “I...really am not sure what exactly brought that upon me, but I surely had enough.” He paused. Maken felt he should stop, that he was oversharing. But he hoped that his story was helping the other. And so, he continued.

“I ran away to live with my, at the time, boyfriend. He was a dream come true, heaven on Earth, my very own savior, that is until he started showing me his true colors. Raziel, that’s his name. Raziel had already moved out on his own and took me under his wing. Life was a dream with him. We slept together almost every night, we had movie nights, we cuddled and kissed and made dinner together, it really was a dream. That is, until he started selling me off to his friends to fuck. It was safe, no doubt that it was because of his own possessiveness. He always wanted to be the only one that was allowed to cum inside me. He gave me a cut of the money he made off of me and started to become more distant. I was just a sex toy to him, and I am sure that was always the goal.” Maken held himself in his sweater then reached for a bottle of water in his mini fridge, taking a drink out of it and calming his rising nerves. 

Lotor listened in sympathy, relating to Maken’s story. His story with Allura was all too similar. For Lotor, Allura was his dream come true. They were really in love and always together, even as children. Though they never lived together, Lotor was practically always at her place. And when he was there, he was simply a toy, a doll that she owned. Even though Allura did not sell Lotor off for sex with others, she did rape him often. He was just a cock to her, just some live possession that she owned. Lotor had spent years avoiding the truth, believing that Allura loved him despite beating him, cursing him, raping him. 

“Eventually, I started looking for ways out. Telling him I was going out on errands, when I was really fucking off with my friends, crying into their arms and lamenting about my worries. But I always had hope. Hope that I could change him, hope that I was enough for him to learn how to love someone, anyone properly.” Maken took a moment, wiping his forming tears. “But I was wrong, so terribly wrong.” His voice cracked. “His treatment only got worse. He started beating me, avoiding my face so he could sell my looks. It was so bad that I could barely go to school. But I had nowhere to go until college. So I…” Maken steeled his nerves. “Worked up the nerve to report him. Showed the police all my wounds and got him arrested. I lived in that house until I came to college. But I had to make ends meet so I did what I knew how to do, sell myself for money.” Maken said with a sigh. 

Lotor looked at his computer with so much pity and sorrow and...sympathy. Lotor felt his heart break for Maken. Maken really never did talk about his past, and although Lotor knew it was painful, he really felt the sadness and pain that Maken harbored within his heart. Lotor bit his lip. How could Maken be so worried about Lotor when he clearly has some very deep pain still within his heart? Lotor held a sense of admiration for his roommate. His story had given him some hope of escape. Maybe Maken could really help Lotor get out of his relationship with Allura. And maybe, just maybe, he could fulfill that fantasy of living the rest of his life with Maken. But that was really only just a dream. He began typing. 

Thank you.  Your words have given me a tremendous amount of hope for my future. 

Lotor pauses again. He wished to reach out his hand, to help Maken as Maken had helped him. Hopefully this will work. 

You…  Seem to still hurt from these events. Do you have anyone to talk to about this?

Maken bit his lip. Images of Lotor flashed through his mind. Lotor smiling, Lotor waking up beside him rested and calm. Maken’s heart could not help but stutter. He sighed. “I do. And he’s very close to me. Closer to my heart than I dare care to admit.” Maken looked down, contemplating. “He… is dealing with his own things and… I don’t want to be a burden to him. He’s already kind enough to me. I really don’t want to be too much.” Maken said finishing off his bottle of water and throwing it away. 

I’m sure he wouldn't mind.  Just...give it a try. It can’t hurt, right? The worst that can happen is he says no to you. 

Maken thought for a minute. Maybe EmperorOfTheGalaxy was right. “I’ll… try tomorrow. Thank you. Did… you want to leave now?” Maken asked. 

Yes.  Thank you for sharing such personal stories.  Here’s an extra 500 for the trouble. 

And Lotor left the chat, sighing from the sudden weight placed on his heart and in the atmosphere. He closed his computer and put it away for the night. He closed his eyes suddenly feeling the sting from strain and the hurt in his heart. 

Maken turned off all his equipment and put it away quietly, his heart heavy. Maybe Lotor did not need him tonight, but he definitely needed Lotor at least the comfort of his arms and the small comforting circles he rubbed into his back. He sighed softly, taking off his sexy lingerie and cute sweater, throwing on a tank top that was far too big for him and a pair of briefs. Maken dragged his feet to Lotor’s room and gave a soft knock. “Lotor? Can..” He pauses. It is all or nothing now. “Can I sleep with you tonight? I...don’t want to be alone right now.” Maken called softly through the door. Lotor opened it, white hair mussed because of the pillow he was laying on.

“Of course.” Lotor spoke, moving aside so Maken could enter. Maken sat on the bed, waiting for Lotor to join him. Lotor crawled in bed beside him, prompting Maken to lay down beside him. 

“Lotor, can...we cuddle?” Maken asked in a small voice. Lotor wordlessly obliged, but gave a very soft amused sigh. He placed Maken’s head right over his heart and stroked his raven curls gently. Maken sighed into his chest and felt tears well up in his eyes as he sniffed as quietly as he could. 

“You know, you can always talk to me. I really don’t mind.” Lotor cooed, still soothingly running his fingers through Maken’s hair. 

“Tomorrow. I’ll tell you tomorrow.” Maken said, tears falling silently as they lay in the dark. Lotor could feel his tears soaking through his shirt as Maken shuddered without sound. And that was their night, comforting and crying, the same as the last. Though their positions had been reversed, the bond between them strengthened and soon, it would become unbreakable.

[callumturncr]

A Different Path [Sirius Black AU] - Part 7

Summary: Post-graduation AU in which the reader, Lily and The Marauders have just joined the Order of the Phoenix. As tensions are at its highest in the First Wizarding War, the reader, who likes Sirius Black more than she would like to admit, is framed for the murder of Marlene McKinnon.

Parts: 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 – 7 – 8

Author’s Note: Firstly, thank you so so so much for 200 followers, I love every single one of you very much. Secondly, the next part (last part!!) will not be posted next week but the week after - I have a bunch of tests in school and I need the weekend to study!! Sorry for this delay but I will make Part 8 longer than the others to make up for it :) Also, if you would like to be added to my permanent taglist (or the one just for this piece of writing) please let me know!!

Gif is not mine. Words: 2.9k

Y/N was early.

She stood at the doorway of the Potter’s for about ten minutes, tightly clutching the parcel containing Harry’s gift. She pondered walking around Godric’s Hollow to pass the time but at last, decided against it and knocked.

Lily would have been easy to explain to, Y/N had thought it all out in her head. She would simply say she’d come to see if they needed any help setting up (which wasn’t entirely untrue). Instead, it was Sirius who’d opened the door. Y/N swallowed her words and stared. He seemed to be as equally shocked to see her. After a moment, he stepped aside to let her in.

Lily and James Potter had a lovely home. Y/N had of course been here before but it looked like a different place entirely now that it was illuminated. The hallway led into a slightly bigger room with a flight of steps in one corner, a door to the living room on the right and a door to the kitchen to the left. Picture frames littered the cream coloured walls, most of them depicting Lily, James and their son, as well as Remus and Sirius. There was a fire roaring somewhere too, filling the whole place with a soft heat. Y/N was strangely reminded of the Gryffindor common room with its own blazing fireplace and the couches surrounding it – all that was missing was the scarlet gold paneling and the chatter of students.

But no matter how welcoming or warm, Y/N couldn’t shake off the image of the house it had been when she’d come here last. Sirius, as if sensing her thoughts, cleared his throat and gestured to the room on the right.

The state of the living room left Y/N bewildered. Decorations lay strewn across the floor and miniature models of Quidditch players, clearly enchanted, zoomed back and forth in front of the fire. Harry Potter sat on a pile of bright blue streamers in the centre of it all, watching the little figures with rapt attention.

“Did I get the timing wrong?” Y/N couldn’t help but ask, “It looks like the party just finished.”

Sirius gave half a snort. “Erm, n–no you’re fine. I was waiting for Remus to arrive before putting them up.”

Nodding in acknowledgement, she placed the parcel down on one of the couches. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw the relief on Sirius’ face as clear as day and felt slightly guilty. I should apologize, she thought, I shouldn’t have thrown him out like I did.

Harry had turned from watching the Quidditch players to the new voice in the room. Upon seeing Y/N, he paused as if searching for some sort of recognition before letting out a small squeal. She bent down as he wobbled over, arms outstretched.

“Hello,” she murmured softly. Sitting down, she scooped him up onto her lap and the faint smell of baby powder flooded her nose. Harry held onto her hand with his small fists and cooed at her. “It’s nice to see you again too.”

“You’ve met?” Sirius asked as he took a seat opposite them.

“Lily brought him when she came to see me.”

Y/N wasn’t sure how to continue on from that. She remembered how fraught with tension their last meeting had been and thought that this moment would’ve been the perfect one to bring up her regret but Sirius spoke up.

“Right.” He cleared his throat again. “He likes you.”

The softest of smiles broke out on Y/N’s face and it startled Sirius momentarily. He took in her appearance in the time her gaze was fixed on Harry – she was very thin, like she hadn’t eaten properly for some time. Her cheekbones stood out sharper than before and dark shadows lined her eyes which in themselves were hollow, vacant. Her smile, once so radiant that it could’ve lit up an entire room, seemed too big for her face. The girl he’d known what felt like lifetimes ago was nowhere to be found.

Sirius wondered if she would ever find her way back to that girl again.

Y/N’s eyes flicked to Sirius more times than she would’ve liked to admit. He was looking at her so intently that he could’ve burned a hole through her. She noticed him toying with his fingers nervously, fingers which now had strange little runes tattooed on them. Frowning a little, she spotted another swirl of ink peeking out through the buttons at the top of his shirt.

“Do they mean anything?” she asked, gesturing to the little marks just above his knuckles, stark black against his pale skin. Sirius stopped fidgeting immediately. He seemed to think for a moment before shrugging.

“Not really.”

“How many do you have?”

“A fair few.”

“Including my name in a heart, right on his chest.”

James Potter had sauntered through the living room door, barely batting an eye at the mess. Ruffling Sirius’ carefully styled hair, he plopped down on the couch next to them and smiled at Y/N.

“I don’t doubt it,” Y/N replied quietly. The familiarity of their banter gave her some comfort, as it always had. She tried to smile back. Lily’s head peeked through the corner and her face lit up once she saw Y/N.

“You’re here!” she beamed as she rushed towards her, “No one told me, I would’ve come down sooner!”

“Yeah I thought I would come a bit early in case you needed any help,” replied Y/N.  

“Oh yeah, come,” Lily started back towards the way she’d entered. “Sirius and James do you mind doing the last of the decorations?”

“We’ll have it up don’t worry.” James waved his hand airily. Y/N could tell by the urgency in his voice and the little looks they were giving each other that he wanted to discuss something with Sirius.

“Here,” Sirius offered, holding out his arms for Harry so she could go. She handed him over, ignoring the brush of their hands. Straightening up, she followed Lily out of the room.

“I didn’t think you’d come,” Lily breathed once they were out of earshot. “Not after Sirius told us about… well you know, your argument.”

Y/N shrugged.

“I’m sorry if it was awkward back there. If I’d known you would be here so early I would’ve answered the door myself. I thought it was Remus.”

“It’s alright, I couldn’t put off seeing them forever.”

She watched Lily wave her wand, the cups filling automatically at her command. Y/N did hers without magic and if her old friend found it odd, she didn’t say anything. Lily was simply content to be in her presence once again, after having spent ages with only the four boys.

“Are a lot of people coming?”

“Mainly people you know, people from the Order. And a few other friends of ours,” she paused at the look on Y/N’s face. “You can stay with Harry if you don’t want to talk to anyone.”

Y/N only nodded.

“Don’t worry. You’ll be fine and if they say anything to you, I’m sure Sirius will gladly hex them on your behalf,” she bumped into Y/N purposefully on her way out, eyes twinkling.

-

Halfway throughout the night, Y/N had abandoned playing babysitter and lingered in the hallway, holding a cup in her hand. Over the noise, she heard another knock and went to open the door. On the other side stood a big family, all of them looking as if they had captured the sunset in their hair. They had brought 7 kids with them, two in the arms of the mother and the father, both of whom smiled at Y/N.

“Hello! Sorry we’re a bit late. Fred and George,” the woman eyed a pair of twins at her feet hastily before smiling again, “Kept switching their outfits and Bill took absolutely ages getting ready.” The little boys grinned up at Y/N at their mention, eyes glittering with mischief.

The man was holding out his hand. “Arthur Weasley. Head of the Misuse of Muggle Artefacts Office. My wife Molly, and my children. The eldest Bill, then Charlie, Percy, twins Fred and George, Ron and lastly Ginny,” he gestured to the respective kids as he spoke. “Ron is little Harry’s age actually.”

Y/N shook it and introduced herself too, making a mental note of all the names. If they were wary of her they didn’t show it at all and as she led them in, Molly was talking to her as if they were old friends. Their children bolted as soon as they were inside, all except for Bill who hung around Y/N for most of the night, blushing and bashful. He went only when it was time to eat, although begrudgingly.

It was then that Y/N informed Lily she had to go back home. Resisting the temptation to stay for cake (which Lily and James used to almost bribe her), she gathered her coat in her arms and set off, making sure to say goodbye to Harry beforehand.

“Tell me if he likes the present!” Y/N called after her shoulder once she’d bid farewell. She didn’t properly hear what James yelled in reply but she acknowledged it for a yes all the same.

Y/N let the cold air fill her lungs as she walked, the warmth of the party ebbing away slowly. As she passed the small shops lining the street, she thought she heard the soft padding of paws behind her but she ignored it and walked faster, slowing only when the spire of the little church came into sight. Y/N contemplated stopping by Marlene’s grave but decided against it, climbing higher and higher up the lane until Godric’s Hollow had melted into the darkness behind her.

The street lamps after that were dim and flickered every now and then but she paid no mind to them. The sound of paws brushing on the ground was back. She shook her head and sighed.

“I know you’re following me.”

A gust of wind blew just then and swallowed up the soft whoosh of Sirius changing out of his Animagus form.

“Bill Weasley is going to be heartbroken,” his voice called. She turned to see him standing there, hands stuffed in the pockets of his jacket, mouth quirked in the tiniest smirk. “You left without telling him goodbye.”

Y/N let out a low huff and ignored the jest. He must’ve been watching at the party to know about the little Weasley boy and his fascination.

“Why are you following me?”

“Why are you walking?” Sirius had caught up to her with a few long strides and seemed keen for an answer.

“I felt like it.”

He raised an eyebrow. “You’re going to walk to the other side of London?”

She deflated at that and crossed her arms over her chest but uncrossed them immediately once she imagined how defensive it must’ve looked. She supposed it wouldn’t hurt to tell him the truth.

“I use magic as less as possible now.” Her voice was timid as she said it. “Using magic means I have to use my wand.” Sirius seemed to understand without her saying any more and remained quiet after that. Y/N realised she still hadn’t apologized to him.

“About the other day,” she started. He turned his gaze on her again but she couldn’t find it in her to return it. “I’m sorry for what I said. For throwing you out, I’m sorry–”

Sirius was shaking his head fiercely. “Do not apologize to me,” his voice had a hint of anger laced in it, though it wasn’t for Y/N. “I deserved that and more. You have nothing to be sorry for.”

“But Sirius–”

He seemed to have trouble speaking. “You have nothing to be sorry for,” he repeated.

Y/N looked at him then, astounded at how quickly the tears had come to his eyes. She watched him blink them away and take a breath, stuffing his hands deeper into his pockets. This was the perfect time to bring up his apology too but like that day, his words left him. Sirius wished there was a way to show her how sorry he was, like how Dumbledore had shown him her memory in his office.

“You don’t have to,” Y/N murmured. He frowned at her; sure he’d heard her wrong.

“Sorry?”

She cursed loudly and let her head hang down.

“You don’t have to show me. I know you are.”

The blank look on Sirius’ face did not subside.

“Dumbledore said I might like to learn how to be a Legilimens. Know what people around me were thinking, especially… especially after everything,” she searched his face for a reaction but it was still empty. “I had nothing else to do for a while so I agreed. I’m not that good yet but I can pick up thoughts when someone’s particularly upset.”

“You… you can read my mind?”

“Sort of. Only when you’re really upset though,” she shivered as another chilly blast of wind rushed past. “Like right now.”

“Oh.”

They walked in silence after that. Sirius was still here with her and Y/N found she didn’t want to tell him to go away. His face was a storm cloud of whirling emotions and his eyes, stormier still, were fixed on his feet. He was trying to make his mind blank, so she couldn’t read him again but it proved no use.

Finally he said, “We can still Apparate even without your wand. I can take you.”

“So that’s why you’re here. Did Lily send you?”

“I wanted to come.” His voice was quiet, hesitant. “Incase anything happened. Not that you’d need me to save you or anything but…”

“But?” She felt herself holding her breath for his answer and her heart twisted painfully once he did.

“Just for peace of mind. To know you’d gotten home safely.”

Looking away, Y/N nodded. “Alright then.”

He touched her so gently that she hardly felt it. Sirius’ fingers brushed against hers for the smallest stretch of time, like it had earlier that evening and with a pop, he was gone. Y/N followed after him, gut squeezing as they Apparated back to her house. Her front door appeared in a flash.

“See you tomorrow?” asked Sirius. He was toying with his hands again.

“I actually have to see Dumbledore tomorrow,” she said.

Sirius glanced at her curiously. “Something wrong?”

Y/N swallowed nervously. How could she break it to him without breaking his heart?

“After I got out of Azkaban… I asked if I could be transferred to America.”

Sirius stared at her, not saying anything. He was pretty sure he’d stopped breathing too.

“To work for MACUSA,” clarified Y/N.

“W– Why?”

Y/N seemed to think very carefully about her answer. The whistling of the wind was all there was to be heard for a while and she tucked a strand of hair that had come loose behind her ear. An owl hooted somewhere in the distance.

“There are so many reminders here,” she began. Her face contorted painfully and Sirius wished he hadn’t asked. “Every day, I look for her Sirius. I see her in every crowded room; I can hear her voice in my head when I’m with Lily, responding as if she were there with us. And sometimes I see you and all I can think–”

She stopped short, bringing a hand up to her mouth. Tears had pooled in her eyes and she turned her head away from him completely, taking a moment to collect herself.

For the third time, Sirius had no words. What could he say when Y/N couldn’t even bear to look at him? He’d allowed himself to think everything would be fine now that they were talking normally again but he couldn’t have been further from the truth. Of course one evening couldn’t undo three years of his mistake. He wiped at his cheek roughly.

“When are you leaving?” he said, his voice hoarse.

“I don’t know for sure if I am.”

Please don’t, thought Sirius selfishly. He had absolutely no right to be asking such things but he wasn’t sure he could stand losing both of them. But then again, a voice whispered in the back of his head, he technically had already. Y/N would never forgive him and neither would Marlene if she was here. He’d failed them both and Y/N deserved to start anew, with real friends who would never doubt her.

Sirius said none of this out loud.

“I– If you choose to go… will you see us before?” Y/N heard a slight note of pleading creep in as he continued. “I think Lily would like that. And Harry.”

And me, he added in his head. Y/N stared at him and pondered it before nodding.

“Thank you for walking me home.” It was so formal, so unlike them. The ache inside Sirius rose.

“Yeah, of course. No problem.”

He waited until she’d entered her house. For the longest time, the window panes remained dark. Y/N stood on the other side, silent tears rolling down her cheeks. Her arms were clasped around her middle, as if she could physically hold herself together, hold in the misery threatening to pour out.

He only walked away after the lights had flicked on. He longed to run back and tell her everything he’d withheld. He didn’t deserve an ounce of her sympathy but still he wanted to beg her to stay. Even if she would never forgive him, seeing her everyday would be enough to bring him relief, he thought.

Sirius had just about managed to drag himself back to the Potter’s when he remembered Y/N was now a Legilimens.

Tag List: @knowledgeisthebomb @siriusement @kendratheweird @emi-loser @i-think-i-am-adorable @avengersassemblee @movokepwc @blackloveangel13 @misunderstood-sinner @vvytran @all-throughthe-night @ashkuuuu @thepuffyeyedpuff @annino112 @love-dria @five-seconds-of-fab @moremoony @ilovelyai @giddybeater @basically-hayley @misfitinfinity @sjriusblck @megzdoodle @siriuslyimmoony @mikariell95 @nadinissavage @sly-vixen-up2nogood @swim-deep-or-die  @whymalu @biatheintrovert @thanos-strikes-back @acutelittlehufflepuff @justbeingslytherin @lupintales @14-bees @maralisa124 @supsuppitysupsup @marveliskindacool @cyberbadman @gingercat9180 @wastingmylifeonthiswebsite @paigeyisme @puppycat714 @gemofthegalaxy @mellyrally 

[makknays]

what is love?

genre: angst? fluff and uh smut // college!au

word count: 9.3k this is the most ive ever written and i finished it in under a week when i should be revising

Everyone knew university exams were some one of the most stressful things but having to work on an assignment with a frat boy was even worse. Like yeah, you’d seen them around at their parties but you mainly went to get wasted and forget about school. “I want your assignment on what love is to be around 3000 words long, it’s not due for three months because you’ll need to carry out your own research for this assignment.” “I don’t understand why we’re doing an assignment on love for English, and we have to do research too; what are we; science majors?” some guy complained in the back. “That is because half of you write about love and romance but don’t actually seem to know what it’s all about.” the lecturer replied. “Oh.” “Anyway, everyone pair up and get to it!” You panicked, none of your friends took English with you and 90% of the class has already paired up, leaving you with Jeon Jungkook, Park Jimin or Kim Taehyung. Jungkook seemed like the lesser of the three evils so you made your way towards him. “Have you got a partner?” you awkwardly asked him. “Nope, you wanna be mine?” he nonchalantly replied, despite never having spoken to you. “Yeah, uh, here’s my number in case you need me for the assignment. I’ll do my half and you do your half.” “We should really figure out what those halves are.” “Oh yeah, sorry. I have another class to get to but just text me when you’re free, I guess.” you told him before leaving the lecture theatre.

“Yo Jungkook got that hot girl as his partner!” Jimin teased. “Not the point. I actually wanna do well, this is like 50% of our final grade.” he muttered as he was packing his bags. “Yeah, but hot girl? You could get laid!” Taehyung laughed. “Dude, I get laid anyway. Have you met me?” he smirked. “True, I see all those girls he brings back; there’s a new one every weekend!” Jimin stated. “Anyway, let’s get back we have a party tonight!” he added.

[3:26pm] (Unknown) Hey, about that assignment; do you wanna do half research half essay each?

[3:28pm] You: that sounds good

[3:28pm] (Jungkook) btw there’s a party at my frat house tonight so come if you wanna forget about school

[3:29pm] You: am i allowed to bring people? i usually do

[3:29pm] (Jungkook) go for it, i’ll see you tonight ;)

What was with the winky face? Seriously, having a frat boy as your partner was gonna be something you regretted. “Lexi, frat party tonight.” “Which frat?” “Uh, maybe, the only frat whose parties we go to?” you sarcastically replied. “Okay, okay. Just making sure. Are you gonna doll up for once? You haven’t since freshman year.” “It’s a frat party. There’s no one I plan on trying to impress. I just wanna get pissed.” you replied. “___, you haven’t gotten laid since like six months ago.” “Yeah? And?” “Get back out there!” “I don’t want to have a one night stand, if that’s what you mean.” “It was just a suggestion.” she laughed as she turned her attention back to the lecturer.

“Hot girl from English is coming?” Jimin yelled. “Her name’s  ___. You’d know if you paid attention when we all had to introduce ourselves.” Jungkook replied whilst rolling his eyes. “Yeah, but who would pay attention with all these girls in English?” “You’re such a frat boy.” Yoongi chuckled. “Isn’t that what we all are?” he mumbled. “Yeah, but we’re not as fratty as you.” Namjoon teased. “Jungkook is!” “No, Jungkook just gets around.” Namjoon stated. “Guys, why are we even talking about this?” Jungkook whined. “Because hot girl is coming!” “___ is her name but yeah, what’s the big deal? She always comes.” “How do you know that?” Taehyung asked him. “I’ve seen her at all our parties with her little circle of friends which Yoongi seems close to too.” “Oh, yeah, ___’s a good friend of mine. We kinda grew up together.” “You never told me you knew hot girl!” Jimin complained. “Jimin, I had no idea who you meant by hot girl. Besides, not like I’d want you to get into her pants. She’s like a sister to me so none of you fuck about with her, okay?” “Why not me? I’m a nice guy!” “Yeah, but not boyfriend nice. You’re fuckboy nice.” “Your compliments hurt me.” “That’s what I’m here for!”

“___, help me zip up my dress?” Lexi shouted from the bathroom. “Girl, who are you trying to impress?” “Remember that really pretty girl we saw last week? She’s gay, I’m gay?” “How can you be so sure she’s gay?” “I found out through people!” “You’re such a creep sometimes.” you joked after stepping away after zipping up the dress. “___, a girl has needs. Also, is that what you’re wearing?” “Yeah? Are my sweater and jeans making you uncomfortable?” you laughed as you walked away. “Can’t you wear something a bit more fun? For me?” “You’re the one tryna get that girl, not me!” “Please? I wanna look cute with my best friend!” “Ugh, fine. But this is for you and not for a frat boy to get into my pants.” “Of course.” You went rummaging through your closet to find something that would fit the vibe that Lexi was going for and settled on a two piece outfit, consisting of a bandeau top and matching pencil skirt. “Ooh, now we’re talking! Man, if I saw you as a girl I’d be trying to impress you instead of this other girl.” “Thanks?” “Seriously. You look good.” “Let’s go then.”

[8:34pm] (Jungkook) you here?

[8:35pm] You: yeah, with Yoongi and co

[8:35pm] (Jungkook) i can’t find you guys with all these people here

[8:36pm] You: why so keen on finding me?

[8:36pm] (Jungkook): just wanna get to know you a bit better since we’ll be working together for three months

[8:37pm] You: okay, we’re on the sofas

“___, who the hell are you texting?” Yoongi teased. “Why do you care?” you joked. “Suspicious.” Lexi stated. “Go impress that girl!” you told her. “I will! Just when she’s free…” “That’s not how you slide.” “How do you slide then, Yoongi?” “Just interrupt.” “Yeah, Yoongi, that’s actually rude.” you teased. “Works for me.” he shrugged as he took a sip from his plastic red cup. “___!” a voice called, causing your little group to turn their heads. “Heya.” you smiled as you shuffled over to make space for Jungkook, consequently squishing Yoongi slightly. “Is this who you were texting? One of my frat bros?” “Don’t call them that ever again.” Lexi complained. “Okay, okay. But was it?” he whispered into your ear to which you nodded. “Anyway, do you know everyone who’s sat here?” you asked Jungkook; the alcohol in your system was given you so much more confidence. “Yeah, I know everyone. I don’t run around calling people hot girl or anything.” Jungkook joked, causing Yoongi to chuckle slightly. “Okay, I need another drink. Anyone else?” to your surprise almost all six of your friends nodded. “Uh, can someone held me get the drinks?” “I’ll help.” Jungkook offered.

“You know, I’ve heard a lot about you.” you told Jungkook as you entered the kitchen. “Good or bad?” “Bit of both, but you’re different to most frat guys I know. You get around but you’re not like fratty.” you laughed. “Doesn’t everyone get around?” “I don’t, it’s not my thing.” “Ah, so like, when did you last get laid?” he asked as he mixed the last drink. “Good six months ago but yeah.” “Are you the type that has to be in love or something?” “Not in love, but dating.” you smiled as you grabbed four cups and walked out of the door. “Hey, Jungkook!” someone called before he could follow you with the remaining cups. “What’s up, Tae?” “How’s trying to get into hot girl’ pants?” he teased as he poked at Jungkook’s side. “I’m not trying to get into her pants.” he sighed as he walked out of the kitchen. “Sure, you’re not!” Taehyung screamed afterwards but his voice wasn’t audible above the music.

“Sorry, I got held back a bit.” Jungkook smiled as he passed around the drinks. “With what?” you asked as you took a sip of the coke and vodka mix. “Taehyung.” he said after sitting to your left. “He bugging you about that thing from before? Hot girl?” Yoongi asked, his left arm was on the back of the sofa; welcoming everyone but also protecting you. It was a subconscious thing he did, since he was a year older and decided if anyone fucked you oher he’d fuck them up. “Yeah, I mean, hot girl or not? I’m not trying to get into anyone’s pants!” he complained, giving no context. “Okay, uh, I don’t know who you mean by “hot girl” but just, uh, don’t fuck her over?” you told him as you turned to make conversation with someone else. Whilst you weren’t paying attention Jungkook and Yoongi has a conversation of their own about hot girl, whoever she was. The seemed so interested in her.

Hours later, the party was starting to die down and you were about to pass out. Lexi had left with the pretty girl she wanted to get with; Yoongi had gone to his room and everyone else had spread out elsewhere, leaving you and Jungkook. “___, let’s get you back to your room.” Jungkook said as he struggled to get your attention but you shook your head. “___, you can’t stay here. There’s still people around. Let me take you home.” he said but you had your head on his shoulder and we’re about to fall asleep. “Fuck. ___.” he muttered under his breath; he was trying to figure out what to do with you. “Help me, please, you can stay in my room. C’mon babe, stand up.” he spoke as he helped you up. “This is hopeless.” he muttered. “Okay, uh, I’m gonna carry you.” he told you before he lifted your body - bridal style - and carried you into his bedroom. He took off your shoes and considered changing you but thought that he better not, you weren’t that close or dating. He covered you with his duvet and closed the door behind him when left to go back to the party.

The next morning you woke up with a banging headache, in the same clothes you were in the night before, and in a foreign room. “Did I...sleep with someone? No, I wouldn’t be in these...right?” you asked yourself as you looked around for a sign of life. Sadly, there was none; so you sat up and looked around for a while. Afterwards you grabbed your shoes and looked around for you phone but failing to find it you opened the door and realised where you were. “Why am I still here?” you muttered before walking down the stairs of the frat house. “Where is that phone?” you mumbled as you stumbled around looking for it. “This phone?” Yoongi chuckled as he handed you your phone. “Why am I still here?” “I don’t know.” he shrugged before he went back to cleaning up the remains of last night. “You really don’t know? I woke up in some random room and was so confused.” you told him as you helped him clean up. “Which room?” “The one at the top of the stairs.” “That’s Jungkook’s room. Wait, nothing happened, right?” “I don’t think so, I mean I woke up with these still on so I don’t dont think anything happened.” “Where is that boy anyway?” “I know as much as you do.”

“Hey, Jimin, where’s Kook?” Yoongi asked when he entered the kitchen. “Kook? Last time I checked he was asleep in the couch.” “Jimin, he’s not there.” “Well, go find him then. I don’t know where that kid is either.” he mumbled. “You’re annoying when you’re hungover and horny. You didn’t get laid, did you?” he teased before making his way back to you. “No sign of the fucker.” “Call him?” you suggested. “You call him! You have his number.” “Don’t you?” “Not saved.” “Fine.”

“Hello?” Jungkook asked. “Hi, Jungkook. Where are you? Everyone here’s kinda wondering where you’ve disappeared to.” “Oh, I just popped into the store. I’ll be back soon.”

“He went to the store.” you told Yoongi who seemed indifferent about the knowledge. “I just wanna know what you were doing in his bed. I swear I’ll fuck him up if he did anything to you.” “Let’s not get ahead of ourselves.” you chuckled before making your way into the kitchen to grab something to eat. “Wow, your fridge has been emptied. No wonder he went to the store.” you spoke to yourself. “___!” Jimin cheered. “Can I help you?” “Nope, I just can’t believe you fucked Jungkook.” “Here’s the thing, I didn’t. Did he tell you that?” “Nah, I just assumed since I saw that you were in his room last night.” “You’re the frattiest out of them all.” “You barely even know me.” Jimin pouted. “Exactly.” you smiled before jumping on the island in the kitchen to sit on it. “Are you interested in him? I mean, you did ask him to be your partner.” “For the assignment, yeah. It’s not that deep, Jimin.” “You came to the party?” “I come to every party.” “Okay, okay. But if you get together you owe me like 10 bucks.” he was pushing your competitive side but you didn’t want to step down and imply that you were weak. “Okay, and if we don’t, you owe me 10 bucks.” “How long?” “Three months, today, so like June 4.” “Deal.” It was quite strange how comfortable you felt around everyone in the fraternity; you realised most rumours weren’t true and they were just genuinely sweet people who just kind of got around. But it probably helped that you were interacting with people whilst drunk last night.

“Hey, guys. I have food!” Jungkook smiled as he entered the kitchen; he was surprised when he noticed you on the island. “Food!” you squealed as you pulled the bag he placed on the island towards yourself. “Yeah, I picked some up on the way ‘cuz I figured no one would wanna cook.” he told. “This is my favourite kind of breakfast.” you smiled as you held the pancakes close to you. “Jesus, ___, why don’t you date them?” Yoongi chuckled when he entered the kitchen, presumably for a coffee. “Maybe I will.” you pouted as you hopped down. Breakfast was filled with a lot of joking and reminiscing the night before, different frat boys would make their way in and out of the kitchen but yourself, Jungkook, Yoongi and Jimin stayed the whole time. “Oh, by the way, what was ___ doing in your room last night?” Yoongi asked. “Oh, uh, well, she started to seem really sleepy and I wanted to take her to her room but she wouldn’t budged and I remembered that I don’t even know where her room is so I let her stay in my bed while I slept downstairs after the party died.” “What a gentleman!” Jimin smirked as sent looks your way. “Thanks Jungkook.” “Don’t worry about it.” “___ is off limits one night stand wise! Do not fuck with her! Or you fuck with me!” Yoongi suddenly but jokingly said. “What if one of us fell in love with her?” Jimin joked but you knew he was trying to push something. “That’s okay but don’t hurt her.” “Wow, you’d just give me over to one of your frat bros like that?” “Hey, if you both love each other who am I to stop you?” he chuckled before taking the last sip of his black coffee. “He’s got a point.” Jimin laughed. “Wait, isn’t our assignment on what love is? We really should do research on that, like what people think it is.” you told Jungkook. “It’s due in three months, don’t sweat it, babe.” he chuckled. “You want a good grade as well, right?” “Of course! Well start next week then.”

It was around 4pm when you finally made it back to your dorm room, where Lexi had been waiting for you since 12pm. “Where have you been?” she complained when you entered the room. “I was at the frat house.” you told her. “What? Did you fuck someone?” “Nope, I passed out there.” “Until now?” “Well, I woke up and chilled with them and then I came here.” you explained as you looked for clothes to change into. “Okay? Anyway, that girl wow, we had such a good time. We didn’t fuck but like we had such a good time. Her name is Skyla and we just spoke all night long in the corner of the party and we exchanged numbers so I think we’ll be going on a date soon!” she squealed as she held her phone close to her chest. “Damn, look at my best friend go!” you smiled before going to shower and change into something that you hadn’t been wearing for longer than necessary. Whilst you were in the shower there was a sudden knock on the door. “Who the fuck?” Lexi muttered to herself before lazily making her way towards the door. There was another knock before she opened the door. “Can I help y- Jungkook?” “Lexi! Is ___ here?” “She’s in the shower.” “Oh, well give her this. She forgot it at ours.” “Her phone? She forgot her phone? What did she do on the way home…?” “She was talking to us, we walked her over. I only noticed her phone when we got back. Anyway, I’ll get going.” he smiled before leaving. When you reappeared in front of Lexi she yelled “___, your boyfriend dropped off your phone.” “I don’t have a boyfriend?” “Okay, Jungkook.” “What makes you think I’m interested in him or vise versa?” you chuckled. “Well, you were kind of all over that guy last night. Yoongi disappeared and you two just started talking and seemed really intimate. I don’t know what else happened because I went and got myself a Jungkook. Oh, also, he came back just to give you your phone so.” “Lexi, it’s a phone. What else was I going to do if he didn’t come and give me it?” “Hey, you’re not denying what happened last night!” “That’s because I barely remember that.” you sighed as you laid down.

[4:58pm] You: thx for dropping off my phone

[5:00pm] (Jungkook) No problem sweetheart

[5:03pm] You: we still need to start that assignment…

[5:03pm] (Jungkook) you said Monday so until then don’t even mention it :D

[5:04pm] You: make me :)

[5:05pm] (Jungkook) is that an invitation?

[5:05pm] You: up to your interpretation

“You’re texting your boyfriend, aren’t you?” Lexi teased. “Don’t you have Skyla to talk to?” you retaliated. “She’s at work.” she pouted, making you laugh slightly. “Is my misfortune funny to you?” “Somewhat.” “Whatever, just talk to your boyfriend!” “He’s not my boyfriend!” It wasn’t a lie that Jungkook wasn’t your boyfriend but everyone had come up with this idea of you liking Jungkook or the other way round and you had no idea where it stemmed from. Yeah, Jungkook was attractive, there was no denying that, and you got along but dating him? It just didn’t seem realistic.

“Okay, we need to get this started!” you told Jungkook as you opened up your laptop. “Let’s start off with stating our personal perceptions of love.” you added afterwards. “Love? Does it have to be romantic?” Jungkook asked before taking the laptop from you. “Up to you.” you told him. “Okay, just don’t read what I say yet.” “No, I won’t. I wanna write these and compare it to what we write in three months time.” you told him before diverting your attention elsewhere. Jungkook spent about thirty minutes writing on your laptop, getting stuck and not being able to find the right words every now and then but he got there in the end. “I’m done.” he smiled. “Cool. Let’s get some other opinions up in here.” you laughed. “We’ll do it another day. Let’s just hang out for the rest of the day, ___.” Jungkook pouted. “What would that include?” you asked, intrigued by his idea. “Let’s go on a drive. We’ll blast some old songs and just see where the road takes us.” he smiled. “Okay, as long as I’m back by midnight. I like my sleep.” “I gotcha, babe.” His pet names never went unnoticed by you but you chose to not acknowledge them or give them any unnecessary meaning but they were seriously growing on you. But still, the two of you dating? You weren’t so sure. “You know, you only did half an hour of work today?” you laughed as you got into Jungkook’s car. “I went to the lecture, ___.” “So did I but you were sleeping.” “How did you know…” “Jungkook, we sit on the same row.” you blankly replied. “Fine, I’ll just do more tomorrow. Also just connect your phone to the bluetooth. Play whatever, I don’t mind.” “Okay, I’ll play All Star.” “Wow, you’re perfect.” he muttered. “What?” “Nothing, I said it’s perfect.” It was safe to say that Jungkook had a crush on you, he had one since before he even knew you properly. He was so shocked when you asked to be his assignment partner, this was finally his chance. He had been flirting with you, well calling you pet names, but you seemed unfazed by it all, he was losing hope.

Your drive led you to the prettiest little places where the two of you took a bunch of photos of the scenery and well, each other. This may have been platonic but it sure as hell felt like a date to the both of you. “It’s nice out here.” Jungkook sighed. “Agreed. We should come back here some time.” you suggested. “Not a bad idea, but you told me you wanna be back before midnight so let me take you home, babe.” “Is it seriously already 11?” you whined. “I’m afraid so.” he chuckled as he wrapped his arm around your shoulders and walked you back to his car. “I really don’t wanna go back.” you told him before running back to the spot you to were in before, he ran after you without a thought and because he was much faster and stronger, as soon as he caught you he lifted you over his shoulder and took you to his car. “Don’t make me do that again. I’ve known you properly for like four days and I’ve carried you twice.” “Twice?” you asked when he placed you down. “How do you think you got to my room when you slept there?” he chuckled. “Get in, sweetheart.” How you got to Jungkook’s room was never something you questioned, yeah, you questioned why you were there but never how. You had assumed you were walked up by someone; you didn’t realise Jungkook, who had only known you for a few hours, had carried you up there. “Something on your mine?” Jungkook asked when he noticed you in some sort of trance. “No, just hungry.” “Let’s go grab a bite then, we’re basically by your room anyway.” he suggested. “Yeah, that sounds good.” you smiled.

“Two hamburgers and fries, please. You want a drink?” Jungkook asked. “Yeah, please.” you told him without sparing him a glance. You were updating Lexi on your whereabouts since she had started to get worried, you were never out past 9 on a Monday and it was almost 12 now. “To go?” the worker asked. “Yeah, please.” “Here’s the money, Jungkook.” you said as you handed him the sum of your half of the bill. “I’ll pay, don’t worry.” “Okay, but I’m paying next time.” “If you say so, but that means I’m gonna eat as much as possible.” “You’re the worst.” A few minutes later, Jungkook and you walked back towards his car and he drove you back to your room. “Well, I’ll see you tomorrow. 2pm.” Jungkook smiled when he got out of the car. “You got it!”

“Dude, why were you out so late?” Lexi whined when you entered. “It starting to feel like every time I enter this room you complain to me.” you laughed. “You’re never out late on a Monday though.” “I was with Jungkook.” you told her before eating some of the fries in your bag. “Oh, you were with your man, I see.” she smirked. “It was nothing like that.” “So, you weren’t laid?” “Nah, we just hung out.” “Oh, okay. Boring.” she joked. “Yeah, but have you been laid yet?” “Nope, but I have a date at 7pm tomorrow.” “Lucky.” you muttered. “Why don’t you go on one?” “Who the hell would go on a date with me?” you laughed. “Jungkook.” she genuinely replied. “No way, the guy who’s in a frat?” you laughed but you were starting to consider it. “Yes way. You’re clearly into each other, well, that’s the vibe I got from the party.” Lexi said as she grabbed some fries. “Um, excuse me?” “Yeah, you were so flirty and basically eye fucking each other.” “I was talking about my stolen fries.” “Oh, well, they’re gone now. But seriously, do you have a thing for your frat boy assignment partner?” “I mean, he has a nice face.” “___.” “I don’t know, man. I’ve known him for a few days. Ask me again in a month.”

And just like that a month had passed. Jungkook and you had met very frequently, every other day actually; you both also saw each other at the frat parties every Friday night and tonight was no different. “___, where’s my really cute dress?” Lexi asked. “Which one? You have so many.” “Uh, the red- You’re wearing it!” she complained. “I can’t even be mad though because you look really cute in it.” “Well, you can wear it instead; I’m sure I’ll find something.” “No, it’s fine. You need to get Jungkook’s attention, I already have a partner secured so.” “I do not need to get his attention. Especially like this!” you told her. “Okay, so why else are you wearing my cute dress when last week you appeared in sweats.” “I just wanna doll up a little bit.” you mumbled. “Oh, by the way, he still seemed really into you when you were wearing the sweats.” “He was?” “Ha! You do want his attention!” “Okay, yeah, keep it down. Isn’t a bit of flirting allowed?” you retaliated. “___, he’s so into you; just get on that!” “No, I wanna figure my feelings out. I wanna make sure it’s not just lust like 90% of the girls who try to hope on him.” “It’s been a month.” “What’s your point?” “Okay, take things at your pace then.” she chuckled before rummaging through her closet for a nice dress.

“Wow, you dressed up! What’s the occasion, babe?” Jungkook chuckled when you made your appearance. “I just wanted to look nice this week; it’s been a long one.” you replied as you took Yoongi’s drink from him. “My drink!” he whined. “You owe me this, I had to cover your ass this week.” “What happened?” Jungkook calmly asked, leaning back into the sofa that you two were sat on. “His parents called to check on him and stuff and I had to say that their youngest son was doing very well and totally not skipping classes and spending his most money on booze.” “But what else made you so bleh about this week?” “Oh, it’s just been long because of some deadlines that I have, but that’s what this party’s here for.” “True.” “How was your week?” “It was okay, I guess. Nothing much happened.” “Sorry, I couldn’t manage to see you this week, by the way.” you told him, feeling slightly guilty because you had been so absorbed in meeting deadlines. “It’s fine. We can hang out now.” he smiled. “Can I take this seat?” a random girl asked before she sat on Jungkook who was evidently uncomfortable with the situation. “No, can you actually get off me?” he told her as he looked over at you for help. “But Kookie.” she mewled. “Can you leave?” you suddenly asked her. “Why? So you can have him all to yourself?” “No, he’s clearly uncomfortable with you sitting on him so like go find someone else to harass.” you nonchalantly replied. “Fine. I didn’t want your dick anyway.” she told Jungkook as she left. “Thanks. I didn’t know what I was supposed to do to make her leave.” “Hey, what are friends for?” you laughed before taking another sip of Yoongi’s poison. “Here, take it back. It’s like straight up vodka; I’m getting my own drink.” you complained before heading towards the kitchen. You hadn’t realised Jungkook had followed you until you saw his hand reaching for the same bottle. “You first.” he smiled. “Thanks.” “It’s always so quiet in here.” “I know, right? But it’s probably because it’s not the best place to do anything.” you replied as you handed him the bottle. “Where’s the coke?” you asked. “Oh, there should be some here.” Jungkook replied as he opened a cabinet filled with mixers including coke. “Thank you, my saviour. Imagine having the ratio Yoongi has. I’d be out in no time.” “Yoongi is unnecessarily intolerant to alcohol.” Jungkook muttered. “Anyways, I’ll be heading back.” he added before leaving.

When you returned there was no space for you to sit. Your first choice would be Yoongi but he seemed occupied by someone’s lips. Yes, modern day romance. Lexi was nowhere to be seen and so you just awkwardly stood there with your red cup. “Come over here, sweetheart.” Jungkook told you. “I have nowhere to sit.” “Here.” “Your lap?” you would’ve spat out your drink if it were in your mouth at this point but instead your eyes just widened. “Yeah, c’mon.” “You’re not trying to get into my pants, are you?” you joked when you sat down on Jungkook’s lap. “I would never try to do so so blatantly.” he chuckled as one arm wrapped around your waist. After a few shots of vodka that Lexi had kindly presented it was safe to say you were in that territory where you would say whatever was on your mind, no filter whatsoever. “You have a good face.” you smiled as you caressed Jungkook’s face. “I would hope so.” he chuckled. You leaned your body into his and quietly stayed there, letting time pass. “Wait for me.” you muttered. “What?” “Wait for me to figure out my feelings.” “___, I don’t know what you’re talking about.” “Lexi said I like you but I just want to be sure.” you pouted, eyes half open and you were falling sleepy. “Of course I’ll wait for you, babygirl.” Although you were drunk and sleepy, your words reassured him. Obviously you probably wouldn’t remember telling him this but it boosted his confidence in his chances with you. Moments later you were sleeping on top of Jungkook but he seemed completely unbothered; in fact, he probably was enjoying being so close to you. “You might wanna bring her to your room.” Yoongi muttered, seeming much sober than a few hours ago. “Again?” “Where else will she sleep? Not my room. There’s someone in there.” “Okay, I’ll wait til the stairs are more cleared though; this party is still quite alive.”

In reality he was just finding an excuse to stay in this position for as long as possible but he had to admit it was almost 2am and he probably should take you to his bed. When he placed you down on his bed, you refused to let go. “No, don’t go. Stay here.” you whined as you reached for his arms. “Baby, you should get some rest.” “Why do you always call me that? Always babe, babygirl, sweetheart or baby. Hmm.” you asked. “Do you like me?” you whispered. “Get some sleep, ___.” “No pet name.” you pouted, turning away from him. “Why do I like you?” Jungkook quietly muttered before leaving the room and kicking the majority of the party out so he could catch some sleep himself. “___’s in your room, right?” Lexi asked before she left the party. “Yeah, don’t worry. I’ll bring her home tomorrow.”

“Why am I here again?” you muttered as you stumbled out of Jungkook’s bed. “Jungkook?” you called when you left the room. “Yeah?” he replied from the kitchen. “Why am I still here?” you tiredly asked before hopping onto the island. “You fell asleep around 1am so I just took you to my room at the end of the party.” “Thanks, again.” you chuckled. “It’s no problem.” “Did I say anything stupid?” “Nothing stupid.” he smiled. “Pancakes?” he added afterwards. “Always.” Suddenly the door burst open and Taehyung appeared, “Oh, am I interrupting?” he smirked before leaving. “Why did he even come when he didn’t get anything?” you asked. “You know what he’s like.” Jungkook chuckled. Jimin came in a few minutes after the two of you started to tuck into your pancakes. “Mr and Mrs Jeon.” he teased. “What?” the two of you replied, clearly in shock. “You are so gonna owe me those 10 bucks.” Jimin whispered into your ear before saying something to Jungkook. When Jimin left, the two of you awkwardly sat in silence. “So, what did he say to you?” Jungkook asked you. “I’ll owe him 10 bucks.” “Why?” “Well, um, this will sound bad but he said that if we get together by June 4 I owe him the 10 and if we don’t he owes me it.” “Well, will we?” Jungkook nonchalantly asked. “I don’t know. Would I get with my frat boy assignment partner?” “Who knows what the future holds?” he shrugged before leaving the room, but you figured it was because of what you told him.

[2:32pm] You: i just thought id let you know that im home

[2:58pm] (Jungkook) cool

[2:58pm] You: whats wrong :(

[3:56pm] (Jungkook) nothing :)

[3:57pm] You: you dont need to lie to me, did i do smth???

[3:58pm] (Jungkook) i mean not much you can do anyway so just leave it

“He frustrating you?” Lexi asked, you must have been quite obviously displaying your annoyance. “Yep. He won’t tell me what’s wrong. Do you know what I might have said last night?” you asked. “I have no idea what it could be, sorry.” “Ugh, what if I told him I liked him?” “So, you like him?” “Well, I’m still not that sure.” “You two sound like you’re dating already most of the time but you should probably try to get him to talk because there’s only so much I can do.” “I guess. I’ll try calling him later.”

[6:08pm] You: can i call you?

[6:08pm] (Jungkook) sure

“Hello?” “Jungkook, why are you sad?” “I told you, you can’t do anything about it, so don’t worry about it, ___.” “Was it the thing about Jimin and the 10 bucks because I can call that off-” “No, it wasn't that. In fact, I kind of want that 10 bucks but that’s not it.” he told you. “Then what is it?” “I’ve just been thinking a lot, ever since last night.” he confessed. “Is it something I said? Because I was drunk.” “That’s the thing though, you’re more honest when you’re drunk, ___.” “What did I say?” you awkwardly asked. “Well, you kind of told me to wait for you and that you were sorting your feelings out and then you asked me not to leave you when I placed you on my bed.” “I’m so sorry. I didn’t know I said that.” “No, it wasn’t that. It was when you just called me a frat boy assignment partner, like, is that all you see me as despite the fact that you had told me those things the night before?” “Jungkook-” “I just can’t understand what the hell you mean, ____.” “Jungkook, do you like me?” There was a long silence and it was awkward on both ends. “Yes.” and then he hung up.

“Seriously, he hung up after admitting that he liked you?” Lexi asked. “Yeah…” you sighed. “What else did he say to you?” “Something about stuff I said when I was drunk and sober. I think he thinks I’m messing with him but really I have no idea what’s going on.” you pouted, leaning back against the headboard. “Well, just give him some time. It’s the best thing you can probably do right now.” “I don’t think I have a choice.” “Hey, how about we go treat you?” “I don’t feel like it.” “___, I am taking you out that’s final.” Lexi said as she pulled you off your bed. “Fine, fine. Where are even gonna take me?” “Only your favourite cafe which also happens to be the most expensive place to buy a cup of coffee.” “You’re paying?” “Yep.” The next week was quiet and slow; you were praying that the class would be over soon so you could go home and then go to the weekly frat party. You needed an escape more than ever.

“___, you’re not wearing that. You just want his attention.” Lexi told you when she saw you pull out the shortest and most revealing dress you owned. “Funny. Last week you said I should be trying to get his attention.” you sarcastically replied. “Haha. Funny. The circumstances are different this time.” “I’m wearing it.” “Fine, but if he doesn’t talk to you this time, don’t come complaining to me.” “I won’t.” you muttered before changing into the dress.

“Hey, idiot.” Yoongi called when he entered the kitchen. “What do you want?” you mumbled as you poured yourself a drink. “Nothing. Can’t I check up on my best friend?” “I’m sorry. It’s been a long week and this time I mean really long.” “Is this about Jungkook and you not talking?” “How do you know?” “___, I’m literally in the same frat as him.” “Ugh, I just don’t really know what I did for him to be this way.” “Go talk to him.” “No.” “Then stay frustrated.” “I hate when you make good points.” you said before leaving the room and heading towards Jungkook. To your surprise he was surrounded by all types of people that you had never seen before. “Of course.” you muttered before sitting down in your usual spot on the sofa. Yoongi came over not too long later. “You haven’t spoken to him have you?” “Nope, he seems occupied.” you mumbled. “Here.” Yoongi said as he handed you a much needed spliff. “You’re giving me this?” “You need it, ___. Just relax a little.” he chuckled as he lit his own. It was about an hour later than your initial appearance at the party and for once, you were mingling and speaking to new people. Suddenly arms wrapped around your waist, you had no idea who it was but you had an idea and didn’t push them off you. “Hey, sweetheart.” You turned your head to face Jungkook who seemed very much drunk; it took a lot for him to be drunk so to see him in this state shocked you. He pressed his hips against your own and you could feel his very evident hard on against you. “Who allowed you to wear such a revealing dress? Thinking I wouldn’t notice? Or was that what you wanted?” he whispered into your ear. “Jungkook, let me get you some water.” “No, I’m okay, babygirl.” he lowly told you as placed kisses along your neck. “Jungkook, you’re barely standing upright.” you told him. “That’s why I’m holding onto you, baby.” he chuckled before taking him to the sofa. It was weird being the more sober one for once but your main priority was to make sure Jungkook was okay. After you placed him on the sofa, you went to grab a cup of water.

“Jungkook, please drink this.” you told him when you returned to him. You sat down beside him to make sure he would be okay. How much exactly did he have to drink? “___, you know it sucks that you play with me like this?” “Jungkook, you’re drunk. Let’s talk when you’re sober.” you stated before his head softly met your shoulder. “I may be drunk and very honry because of you but you mean so much to me. Why am I just a frat boy to you?” he pouted. “Jungkook, I’ll talk about this when you’ll be able to remember.” The boy’s head fell softly onto your lap before he seemed to fall asleep, he looked so peaceful, as if there was not a care in the world. You lightly caressed his face before Lexi made an appearance. “Woah, what happened here?” “He’s drunk and knocked out.” you told her, moving your hand away from Jungkook’s face. “Did you get to talk to him?” Yoongi asked as he sat down beside Lexi. “Okay, where did you come from? Also, no. By the time I saw him he was piss drunk.” you replied. “You guys are so frustrating, I mean, you’re clearly into each other.” Lexi whined. “Not so simple.” “___, face it. You like him. I’ve never seen you like someone this much during your lifetime.” Yoongi teased. “Okay, even if I did. What’s it to you guys?” “Well, if you two actually got your shit together, we’d be stress free.” Lexi smiled. “Look, I’ll talk to him when he’s sober. I haven’t seen him all week and the time I do he’s knocked out on my lap.” “Is that why you’ve been so pissy all week? Because you hadn’t seen him?” Lexi asked. “Did you only just realise?” Yoongi laughed. “Can you guys help me take him upstairs? I don’t want to be stuck here for the rest of the night.” “You mean you don’t want the love of your life to stay so close to you?” Lexi joked. “Guys, please.” “Okay, fine.” Yoongi said before coming to move Jungkook with you. The three of you helped him get to his bedroom, where you took off his shoes and tucked him into bed. “Thanks guy, you can go back to the party, I’ll be down in a second.” you said before turning your attention back to Jungkook who seemed to have fallen back to sleep. When you turned away and started to make your way to the door you heard Jungkook say “___, stay.”

“Honey, you’re drunk and sleepy. Get some rest.” “No, ___, come here.” “Jungkook.” “Call me honey again.” he mumbled. “I like it.” he added. “Jungkook, get some sleep. I’ll talk to you later.” “No, please, at least give me a hug?” he whined so you gave in and made your way back towards him. His strong arms pulled you into his embrace, almost causing you to lose balance and collapse onto him. “Thank you.” he muttered when you pulled away but he grabbed you again and placed a kiss on your lips, but you quickly pulled away from him. “Jungkook, stop. You’re drunk, you don’t know what you’re doing. I want you to sleep.” “Okay, but only because you want me to. Goodnight, sweetheart.” “You’re such a handful sometimes.” you mumbled as you closed the door behind you. “What took you so long?” Yoongi asked you when you sat down beside him. “I just wanted to make sure he was good.” “That’s it?” “Yeah.” The party was finally dying down, people were leaving and falling asleep but you remained more awake than ever. “___, are you coming home?” Lexi asked. “I think I’ll stay here.” “Okay, I’ll see you later.” Since you couldn’t sleep you decided to clean up the mess that remained. It’s not like it would clean itself, right? Three hours later, you were still wide awake and most of the mess was gone. You just couldn’t get Jungkook off your mind; he hadn’t spoken to you all week and then he went and did what he did. Is this how he was feeling? You ignored your thoughts and carried on cleaning until you heard footsteps coming down the stairs, you turned your attention towards the figure walking down and it was no other than a very tired Jungkook. “What are you doing up?” you asked him. “I got thirsty.” he quickly replied, walking straight past you and into the kitchen. “Okay.” you muttered before resuming to cleaning. Thanks to you the place was now spotless.

“Why are you awake?” Jungkook asked when he reappeared with a glass of water. “I couldn’t sleep. For once, I didn’t end up asleep in your room.” you chuckled. “Yeah, uh, thanks for bringing me up.” “How did you know I did?” “___, I was drunk but I wasn’t as drunk as you normally get.” he smiled before placing the glass on the coffee table and taking a seat on the sofa. He signed for you to take a seat beside him. “So, you remember everything you did?” you asked to which he nodded. “Are you still upset at me?” “Nope. Just kinda upset that I went to bed with a hard on.” he joked, leaning back into the sofa. “You were drunk, I wasn’t gonna let you do anything like that. And why aren’t you upset anymore?” you curiously asked. “I heard your conversation with Lexi and Yoongi. You. Like. Me. And! You were pissy because we didn’t speak all week.” he smirked. “What’s your point?” “There is such a big chance of us happening, baby.” “Jungkook, you got upset over me calling you a frat boy and you didn’t talk to me for a week. What makes you think anything will happen?” “Simple. We like each other. Oh, and you know your deal with Jimin? I told him I was disappointed in him and that if he won he’d have to give me the money so either way we get the money.” “We?” “Well yeah, after I ask you to be my girlfriend but I should take you on a date first.” “You’re serious?” “As serious as my hard on.” “You’re wha-” you stopped your sentence midway when you looked down and noticed the obvious tent in his jeans. “Okay, how? I didn’t even say anything provocative.” “You’re still in that dress, sweetheart. You’re driving me crazy.” he growled as he moved closer to you, placing short but sweet kisses along your collarbone and neck. “Say something, baby.” he muttered against your neck. “Let me kiss you.” you replied. Jungkook pulled you onto his lap and grabbed your ass roughly as the two of you made out. Neither of you holding back any of the sexual frustration that had obviously built up. “You’re so hot, baby.” Jungkook said to which you moaned in response. Somewhere along the way you had started to grind against Jungkook, causing him to moan in response. “Fuck, I want you so bad.” he muttered before lifting your dress up to place two fingers against your clothed heat. “Wow, so wet already. All for me?” “All for you.” you managed to respond in between breaths. “Do you want my fingers inside you, babygirl?” “Yes, please.” you mewled before you left hickies on his neck. Jungkook kissed you as he moved your panties so that his fingers could enter, you causing you to moan into the kiss. “You like that, babygirl?” Jungkook asked as he used to thumb to rub your clit as he fingered you. You placed your head on his shoulder, unable to respond due to the stimulation. “Answer me, baby.” he replied as he spare hand squeezed your ass. “I love it.” you managed to say in between breaths. “Good girl.” He curled his fingers inside of you every so often, eliciting moans from you. Not long later the heat built up in your stomach and you knew you were close. “Jungkook, I-” “I know, baby. Cum for me.” He told you as his hands sped up causing you to scream out of pleasure. “Too loud. There are people sleeping, princess.” he chuckled before placing his two fingers into his mouth, cleaning up the mess you had made on him. “Tastes so good, but let’s get to the best part.”

Jungkook placed you down so that you were laying on your back with him hovering above you. “I’ll have to see your tits another time I just need to be inside you right now.” he smirked. “Be my guest.” “Where did my submissive babygirl go?” “She got impatient.” you told him as you pulled him down to kiss you. Afterwards Jungkook impatiently removed his jeans and briefly touched himself, using the precum as lube, before aligning his cock with you, whilst you removed your panties and pulled up your dress. He had barely placed the head inside you when you let out a moan. “Wow, I haven’t even done anything yet.” he chuckled. “Just, fuck me.” “Your wish is my command.” he said before shoving himself into and waiting for you to become adjusted to his size. Based on the look you gave him he knew he could finally move, starting off slow so that he wouldn’t hurt you by accident. “Please, faster.” you whined. “Baby, you have no idea how tight you feel.” he moaned as he thrust in and out of you. He sped up and ended up hitting just the spot over and over again, causing you to whine and moan over and over. Due to all the pleasure from your last orgasm and from Jungkook fucking you like there was no tomorrow you could feel your second orgasm beginning to make an appearance. “Jungkook.” you whined as he thrust into you. “Baby, I’m close.” you moaned, causing him to speed up his thrusts, making them become sloppy. “Me too, babygirl.” He moved closer to you, placing a kiss on your lips as he continued to fuck you senselessly and there it was. You were about to scream out his name before he kissed you to silence you, so that no one would catch the two of you. “I’m so close, baby.” he moaned and with one more thrust his cum painted your insides and he collapsed on top of you. He slowly pulled out of you, causing you to whine. “Sorry, baby, we can’t stay like that forever.” he chuckled before retrieving his clothes. “Wait, are you on birth control?” he said, panic evident in his voice. “Yeah.” “Thank fuck, I completely forgot to ask before I fucked you.” “Well, I’m on it. You know, for future reference.” “Okay, okay, c’mon let’s get you to my room.” “I need to pee first.” “Okay, let me help you to the bathroom, then to my room. Let’s get some rest.”

A few hours later the two of you woke up, you were still wrapped in Jungkook’s arms and it felt so right. “Hi.” he smiled. “Hey.” “I like this.” he chuckled. “Yeah, me too. I wouldn’t mind waking up to you again.” “I should still take you on a date before I ask you to be my girl.” “So do you usually fuck before the first date?” you teased. “You’re the only exception. I’ve been crushing on you since like the start of this year so when you wanted to be assignment partners I knew it was my time to get you.” “You’re cute.” you laughed as you placed a kiss on his lips. “Do you wanna change out of that?” Jungkook asked, realising you were still in the dress from last night. “You have anything that’ll fit?” “You could wear something as a dress but like something loose.” he replied as he left the bed to find you something better to wear. “Here you go, sweetie.” “Thanks.” Jungkook and you then walked down the stairs together and headed towards the kitchen. “You guys were loud.” Jimin smirked. “You’re a pervert.” you responded. “So are you together?” “Nope.” Jungkook replied as he grabbed ingredients for breakfast with you. “You fucked but you’re not together?” Yoongi replied. “I need to take her on a date first.” “YOU CAN FUCK BEFORE CALLING HER YOUR GIRLFRIEND BUT NOT BEFORE A DATE?” Yoongi screamed, probably causing anyone who was asleep to wake up. “Yeah.” Jungkook shrugged. “Y’all are weird.” Jimin muttered before leaving the kitchen with Yoongi. “How about I take you on that date after breakfast?” “I’m down for that.”

“Are we going on another drive?” you asked him when you got into his car. “How did you know?” he sarcastically replied. The two of you had been driving for an hour before Jungkook came to a stop. “We’ve been here before.” “Yes, we have. Jungkook chuckled. “Why did you take me back here?” “You found it really pretty. I thought why not come back as our first date?” he told you as he wrapped an arm around your shoulders. “You’re cheesy.” “You like me. Are we playing state the obvious?” he joked. “You’re the worst.” “Well, now you’re just lying.” he pouted. “Maybe, I am.” you responded, pulling away from his embrace to be face to face with him. “You’re the best.” he told you. “I know.” you smirked before he placed a delicate kiss on your forehead. “Be my girlfriend?”

Two months later it was time to write your new opinions on love and compare it to what you had written last time. You had already written your part and now it was Jungkook’s turn. “Jungkook, you want that A, right? Do your part!” you told him as you passed him the laptop that was on your lap. “Okay, okay. You can’t rush art, baby.” “Just write it, please.”

I am not quite sure what romantic love feels like; I’ve had girlfriends before but I never felt strong emotions towards them and thought “Can I feel love?” but love isn’t just romantic, it comes in all shapes and sizes. The beauty is that you could love anyone you want to, no matter gender, race, sexuality, it doesn’t matter, love is love. Love is being able to hear my mother laugh after the stressful life she had while raising my brother and I; love is seeing my father crack a joke and enlightening the mood even further; love is seeing my friends laugh with each other. In fact, I think I’m falling in love with someone right now and because of her, I’m also falling in love with the world that surrounds her. Maybe I will experience romantic love one day but even if I don’t that’s okay. I have all these amazing people who love me, regardless. Love is the most beautiful thing we do and without it we’d be nowhere.

It’s been three months since I wrote my last paragraph on what love meant in my eyes and since then I’ve fallen deeper in love with one of the most amazing people in this world. When you love someone romantically, they become your everything, they become the most beautiful person to you, they become the best thing about your life. This is my first time feeling something so real for someone and I don’t plan on letting go. Love is different for everyone but for me love makes me a better person and is something everyone deserves to feel.

[cherrywineandmagic]

In The Morning - Ch. 2

Luke stared in wonder as Y/N fell into her natural rhythm. She walked swiftly, stopping every now and then to snap a picture of the fields. Her all black outfit was a stark contrast the the vivid reds and oranges around her, giving the afternoon a surreal sense for him. The image was breathtaking to the point he almost felt like he was dreaming. 

"So this is what your work looks like," he commented as he followed behind her, his feet following the same steps she had taken. He was careful to not block the natural light as he towered over her. She nodded, her face full of concentration as she snapped another picture. "This is a fairly easy piece. Photograph the poppy fields. It's actually pretty relaxing." "Yeah, it is," he agreed as he shoved his hands into his pockets. The day was cool, with just enough sunlight to provide the warmth they needed. Roxy was bouncing ahead of them, excited to be in such a large playing field. Her happy barks filled the air as she chased birds and butterflies. Y/N turned her head and lowered her camera for a moment, a small smile gracing her lips. "I've missed you. My last visit wasn't nearly long enough." "Two days a year ago? Definitely not long enough," he chuckled. She had crashed on his sofa for two nights, refusing to take his bed and instead opting for the pull out couch. It was only two days but she had brought a sense of joy back to him that he had missed while out in the field, and it had left just as quickly as she had. He took a step forward and wrapped an arm around her shoulder, bringing her into him protectively. The hint of coconut from her hair wafted up to him and he smiled at the fact she continued to use the same shampoo since high school. He kissed the top of her head in a loving manner, lingering just a second too long. "You're still the big softy I know and love, aren't you?" Y/N asked with an amused grin. She pulled away and his body almost immediately reached out to pull her back in before showing some restraint. "Guess even the FBI can't change that." He laughed, his eyes nearly disappearing at the smile on his face. She had expressed her concerns when he had told her about the BAU, claiming that every FBI agent she'd ever met felt cold. He'd simply laughed and commented on the fact she'd only ever met two agents and they were both known to not be the kindest of people. Suddenly he was very aware of the fact she stood in front of him and so his body moved naturally, his arms reaching out to caress her hair before stopping at her neck, his thumbs slowly rubbing against the skin of her jaw. "I'll always be soft when it comes to you." The honesty in his words surprised them both. They stared at each other for a moment, emotions swimming behind both of their eyes before Y/N cleared her throat and took a step back, leaving his hands yearning to touch her again. Roxy appeared at the very moment, her head reaching the fill the emptiness of his hands. He sighed internally, slightly comforted by Roxy's loving gesture. "Come on. Let's finish this so we can go grab something to eat," Y/N said as she took off into the field again. Roxy took off running again and Luke watched as Y/N snapped some photographs of his dog in all her joy. 

Spencer stood in line at the local Costco Wholesale with a half empty cart. He was a little zoned out as the large line in front of him barely moved until a voice interrupted his thoughts. "Spencer?" He turned, surprised to hear his name in the middle of his shopping trip. He grinned when he caught sight of who had called out to him. "Y/N. Hey! How are you?" he asked brightly. He took a moment to take her in again and was slightly surprised to find she was just as beautiful as he remembered. He had gone home the other night sure that he had exaggerated her beauty, convincing himself that it was just the fact she was a new face. And yet now she stood in front of him proving his theory wrong. "I'm good! I came to pick up some photos," she said as she held up a fairly thick package. "I see you came for necessities." Spencer chuckled as he looked at his cart. There was literally nothing besides cans of coffee and two new pillows after he had decided the ones he was currently using had begun to hurt his neck. "Yes, necessities. But I've been standing in line for so long I'm thinking about coming back another time for them," he replied honestly. He had been in line for at least fifteen minutes now and had only moved a few feet. "Do you want me to keep you company while you wait?" she asked as she surveyed the line. The cashier appeared to be discussing something with a customer, undoubtedly doing his best to please whatever concern they had. "Oh," he said, flustered by her proposal, "I don't want to keep you here any longer than you need to be." "Don't worry. I've got nothing else to do. I'd rather stay and talk with you than go to an empty apartment," she replied with sincerity. He nodded, fighting the small blush that wanted to make its way to his cheeks. "So, are those for work?" Spencer asked as he gestured to the pack of photos she held. Immediately he regretted the question. Of course they were, she was a photographer for god's sake. "Yep," she answered with a grin, "do you want to see?" He nodded eagerly and so she tore open the package and pulled some photos out. Spencer was enticed by the vivid colors she had managed to capture, and the way the flowers seemed to be flowing in the wind despite the fact they were obviously still. "These are amazing," he complimented. Her lips pulled into a small smile at his words and at the way he observed he photos so intently. "Thanks. They're not my best work but they'll be enough." "Who are you selling these to?" he asked with curiosity. "National Geographic," she replied with a wave of her hand as if it was nothing unusual to have work featured in such a large magazine. "They'll take anything." "I highly doubt that," Spencer chuckled, amused at the fact she was trying to make her work seem like no big deal. "Don't sell yourself short." She smiled at the fact he repeated the same words she had told him the day they met. "So, coffee and pillows. Am I sensing an all nighter happening soon?" she asked, her voice teasing yet genuinely questioning. "I drink more coffee than I should so this is just the tip of the iceberg," he admitted as he gestured towards his cart. "And I don't sleep that well so all nighters are common for me nowadays. Might as well have comfortable pillows to lay on." "Smart man," she beamed. "Oh, we're up next." They had advanced a great deal in line while they talked and Spencer was surprised to see he was next. While time had felt to drag on when he was alone, it had gone by in a blink of an eye due to his new company. Y/N stood silently beside him as he paid for his belongings. "Well, thanks for the talk," Y/N said as they walked out of the store. "My car is that way." She pointed to the opposite direction of his own car and he felt a sudden disappointment at the fact they would part ways. "Would you like to hang out with me? Maybe have a cup of coffee?" Spencer asked, deciding he had nothing to lose in doing so. Her head tilted as she looked at him and for a moment he felt foolish as she contemplated his offer. "I'd love to." He grinned, feeling relief wash over him at the fact he hadn't had to deal with rejection that night. "Um, follow me home then? Or I can just give you my address?" "Send It to me," she replied with a smile. Her hand extended out and he looked at her open palm in question. "Give me your phone, silly." "Oh. Right." He scrambled for his phone before passing it to her fully unlocked. He watched as she typed away, the brightness of the screen illuminating her facial features in a new light before handing it back to him. "Just type in your address and hit send. I'll see you soon!" Spencer grinned as she walked away, a bounce in her step that charmed his heart. He was quick to put his things into the trunk of his car before slipping into the driver's seat. He clicked on her contact, his face flushing as he saw she had added a winky face next to her name, and typed in his address and hit send. He stared at his screen for a second before his fingers moved again, typing out a second message. Can't wait to see you again so soon! He cringed as soon as he sit send. God, that sounded so weird, so desperate. He had literally just seen her. And the exclamation point, what was he, 8? "God, Spencer. Why do you do these things," he groaned as he started his engine and pulled out of the parking lot. 

"You beat me here," Spencer said in surprise as he made his way to the door, pillows and coffee cans in hand. Y/N was standing outside of her car, parked on the street of his apartment. "You must be a slow driver. What's wrong, grandpa? You can chase killers but can't push that accelerator?" she joked, a mischievous grin present on her lips. "Nah, I'm joking. I drive too fast. It scares the shit out of Luke." Spencer laughed at the thought of someone as brave as Luke being terrified of getting into a car with her. "Remind me to never get in a car with you then," he laughed, motioning for her to follow him. She chuckled as she fell into step behind him. "It's good to have a little fun," she replied. "But you're right. I'll make you drive on all of our dates." "Dates?" Spencer froze, his cheeks threatening to burn from the heat that was slowly rising in them. He watched as she sprinted up the stairs ahead of him, her laugh trickling down. "I'm joking! Come on, Spencie. We haven't got all night." "Spencie?" he muttered under his breath, his eyebrows furrowing at the name. He hadn't been called that since he was a child. He shook his head, confused at what was happening and followed her up the stairs. "You lead. I don't know where I'm going," she laughed as she waited for him. He grinned and nodded towards the hallway, letting her know they were already on his floor. "Oh thank god. I hate stairs." "There's an elevator here too," Spencer commented as he struggled to take his keys from his pocket. Y/N quickly grabbed the pillows from under him so he could grab them. He hesitated for a moment before turning the knob, his mind racing to recall how messy he had left his place. It was too late now, she was going to see it whether it was clean or not. "Remind me to take it next time," she replied as she followed him inside. She wasn't surprised at what his place looked like. It was covered from wall to wall in books and she could see at least 3 different mugs scattered around where he had left coffee. "You can make yourself comfortable. I'll start on the coffee," Spencer said. And so she did. She threw herself down on his couch as if she lived there and picked up the nearest book, curious to see what kind of literature he kept around. She tried her best to piece together who he was based on the artwork he had hung up and the pictures he had framed. He seemed like someone who truly loved their friends and family as his frames were dusted off in comparison to the stacks of books they sat next to. His taste in books was diverse as she found things from comics to scientific journals. All around he was very much someone she would find comfort in as his home exuded a certain warmth that very few others did.

“Sorry about the mess,” Spencer apologized as he returned with two mugs in hand. He had left mugs and sweaters lying around, not one to really ever expect much company.

“Are you kidding? This feels like home.”

She took the coffee he offered and sat up, motioning for him to join her on the couch. He took a seat a few feet away, thinking about how most people wanted their own space upon hanging out with new people. Y/N noticed the distance but made no comment.

“So, Spencer Reid. Tell me a story.”

He was thrown off by the conversation starter. Most people would simply ask how someone was doing or how their day went. Never before had he been asked for a story.

“A story?” he asked, his mind suddenly blanking.

“The best way to get to know someone is by knowing where they came from, what they’ve done, what’s happened to them. So tell me a story,” she replied with an encouraging smile. “Here, I’ll start.”

Spencer found himself more entertained than ever before as she told him about her trip to Africa to photograph wildlife only to be chased by a pair of lions. She spoke animatedly, with true love of her work and an appreciation of nature that he found inspiring. And so they traded stories. He even surprised himself as he told her about his childhood, about his mother, about adventures with Henry. She shared her own childhood, the two being refreshingly honest with each other. They were caught up in yet another one of her stories, laughter filling the air between them when her phone began to ring. "Hey Luke, what's up?" she said into the phone. Spencer sat silently, looking away as if trying to give her privacy. "I can't. I'm busy right now." Spencer grinned as she shot him a wink. Her smile was bright, the obvious happiness of the night showing as Luke spoke to her on the phone. "I'm at Spencer's." She paused. "Your Spencer. Spencer Reid, the genius mind who makes delicious coffee." He watched as her eyebrows furrowed. "Because, Luke. He's my friend now too." Spencer frowned as she stood, her body language changing abruptly from happy to noticeably upset. "Sorry, do you mind if I take this outside?" He shook his head and allowed her to step out, wondering what Luke could’ve said to change her mood. His mug sat empty in his hands and so he decided to fill it up once more, stopping for a second to grab Y/N’s empty mug as well.

The day had turned into one he didn’t expect. After a long day at work he had made the decision to stop and grab a few things at the store before heading home, a decision he was now more than happy he had made. Instead of returning to his home with only items, he had returned with company and a new friend. Lord knew he needed new friends.

“Sorry about that,” Y/N apologized as she stepped into his kitchen. She looked towards the time on his clock. “It’s getting late. I should go. You probably have an early morning.”

“I don’t,” Spencer lied. A brief silence passed between them as they stared at each other, the look in both their eyes unreadable. Finally he cleared his throat and spoke. “More coffee?”

She glanced at the coffee he had just poured and nodded. A small smile graced her face that seemed to restore them back to their previous friendliness.

“You better make another pot. I have more stories to tell.”

Ch.1

[boymeetsweevil]

Bump and Grind

Pairing: Hobi x Reader

Word count: 3k lol

Genre: this is so... yikes

Summary: “If someone told you that months after getting hired by BigHit to translate and subtitle VLive videos you would be at an idol’s birthday party with your ass pressed firmly against Jung Hoseok’s crotch, you wouldn’t have believed them.”

You sat at the bar and bobbed your head lightly to the beat of the bass. You didn’t mind just people watching tonight, even though it was the first free Friday you’d had in a while. Most Fridays you were locked up at your cubicle in the Big Hit office, trying to figure out which member was speaking so you could properly subtitle an upcoming VLive. As grueling as the work could be, you were grateful for the job, it was stable and paid well and you got to work with your roommate, Miya. And because you could type fast enough to sub in almost real time, you had gotten to know the members of BTS pretty well by sitting in on their recordings to save time on work.

Your friendship with the guys through work was what got you and Miya invited to a surprise birthday party for a friend of Jungkook’s, along with a few other hair and makeup staff and some backup dancers. You tried to blink through the haze of your 2 past drinks. What was his friend’s name again? Yug-something? You knew he was in a JYP group, which is why there were so many other JYP people at the party, but you weren’t too concerned about it. Truthfully the only reason you were there was because Jung Hoseok himself invited you to the party only 8 hours prior. 

You had been crushing on Hoseok since he restarted his segment of “Hope on the Street” and you had to sit in the corner of the dance studio to sub it. In an everyday work setting, he was plenty charismatic already. Combined with how serious and sexy he looked on that first day while he practiced choreography, you couldn’t even look him in the eye after that. It was like staring into the sun. If it wasn’t for Miya, who really wanted to see Jaebum, you wouldn’t have gone.  

It’s not that you didn’t like dancing or parties. If you drank enough white wine first, you loved dancing. In truth, you weren’t half bad at it. You weren’t at the same level as the dance line, but you could spice up a few of the better-known girl group dances if you tried. And you had been to a wide variety of clubs so you were an expert at standard party dancing.

The real problem was that you had heard from a friend of a friend of your roommate that Hoseok was secretly seeing someone. It was a little disheartening to hear that all the shy flirting you thought you had been doing with him in between takes at shoots or when he stopped by the makeup room to chat you up while you ate lunch was just him being nice and you being too love-struck to notice. Possibly seeing Hoseok with his girlfriend tonight while you had liquor in you wasn’t a good idea. You didn’t want to spend the whole party feeling sorry for yourself and avoiding him in the bathroom.

But you were a big girl, you thought resolutely. If you could handle seeing exes with their new “upgrades”, you could handle seeing a guy who you never dated anyway with a girl you never met. With that thought, you slammed down your finished drink and hopped off your stool to find Miya and dance the night away.

You made your way through the crowd almost effortlessly, despite how packed it was and how tipsy you were. The trick was to treat the bustling bodies like dance partners. Gliding between each person and using their momentum was the key. Soon you made it to the crowded center. Knowing your roommate, she probably tried to trap Jaebum there so she could talk him up. 

The music was good, so you decided to dance in place while your eyes scanned the crowd for Miya. You spotted her and internally congratulated yourself on how well you knew her. She was pressed against JB’s shoulder as he whispered something in her ear that made her laugh. You caught her eye and gave a questioning thumbs up which she returned smugly. You were happy for her, but something told you that you might get sexiled from your apartment. The rent was cheap, but the walls were thin and you wanted a good night’s sleep.

You tried to think of a list of other friends you could stay with when you felt someone tap you on the shoulder. You turned to see Jimin grinning at you. 

“Y/N-noona, you came!” He wrapped you in a slightly sweaty bear hug.

“Yeah, I did. I finished subbing your last shopping trip video early, so I didn’t have an excuse not to come” you replied bluntly. 

He laughed and nodded his head vigorously. Jimin knew how diligently you worked, so he often stopped by your cubicle when you worked through lunch to bring you from from the catering cart or some bread. 

“That’s great! We’re all really glad you could come. Hoseok hyung was really convinced you weren’t going to come. He’d been moping by the wall over there for, like, an hour.”

You furrowed your brows at him. “Why would Hoseok be moping? It’s not like I’m the guest of honor,” you snorted. Then it was Jimin’s turn to look confused.

“Y/N… Hyung really likes you. He’s liked you for a long time. Didn’t you know?”

Your shoulders dropped and you tried to inject calmness into your features, but the news was too surprising.

“What? Since when? I thought he was dating someone from Twice. Isn’t that why they’re here,” you whined as you quickly whipped your head around searching for one of the girls. 

Jimin shook his head. “No, that’s not it. They’re here to support Yugyeom. Did you forget how big JYP is?”

You brought your hands to scrub at your face. God, this was so cliché. “Jimin,” you sighed, “how long have you known. About Hoseok,” you asked from behind your hands.

“Well, hyung said it started at the beginning of the second season of Hope on the Street. He says you comforted him really well because he was nervous the fans wouldn’t want to watch him working by himself.” Despite having had a few drinks, you remembered that day clearly. 

You were subbing a bit slower than normal because Hoseok’s grace and precision were distracting. During the halfway point of recording, he took a break and slumped down one of the mirror walls. He looked more nervous than you’d ever seen him. You couldn’t help but walk over and ask him what was the matter. Then he cracked.

“I’m really nervous about this. I know a lot of the fans can appreciate my skills, but I don’t want to see the views when this goes live. I already know the numbers will be low.”

You had done enough research on the band to know he was referring to the infamous day where a fan asked for the other members during Hoseok’s solo VLive. You didn’t know if he would want to hear what you had to say, but you gave it a shot anyway.

“I mean, I read a lot of fan comments and I’ll be the first to admit that I’m a fan myself. So, from the fans’ perspective, you should know that there are lots of people who love whatever you all feel comfortable with giving us. There will always be… selfish fans, but the majority of them are so glad to feel connected to you. I think a lot of them would feel really great seeing you work so hard to show them this. Plus,” you laughed bashfully, “You look amazing when you dance. Who wouldn’t want to see that?”

You excused yourself quickly and went back behind the camera line because you saw that the break was over. You didn’t see the soft expression on Hoseok’s face before the cameras started rolling again. He seemed to dance with a newfound liveliness, but you just attributed that to having had a break.

From that day on, though, he tried to come speak to you whenever you both had the time. You grew closer, swapped SNS profiles, messaging each other often. You made each other playlists of your favorite songs and sent each other snapchats at night.

You blew an annoyed breath out of your nose. Jimin looked at you sympathetically. It must have been clear what was going through your head. 

“Wait here,” he said and he stomped off into the sea of dancing people. You were starting to regret showing up to the party at all. You figured throwing yourself in to the music would help. And it did, for a song or two. But you felt awkward dancing by yourself. You weren’t drunk enough for that, and you didn’t really feel like drinking more. Your eyes scanned the edges of the crowd again, looking for Jimin, and soon you found him.

He was gesticulating wildly while talking to someone against the opposite wall of the club. You squinted and upon further inspection you realized it was Hoseok. From what you could make out, his dark hair was parted to frame his handsome face. His all black outfit fit him well, emphasizing the subtle breadth of his shoulders and the length of his legs. He looked so good you wanted to cry. Suddenly Jimin pointed in your direction and Hoseok looked over. He probably didn’t see you, but you still turned around abruptly to make it look like you hadn’t just been watching him. 

When you “casually” did a turn in time with the music playing, Jimin was by himself. Which meant Hoseok probably re-entered the crowd. Somehow you knew he was coming to find you and your heartbeat sped up instantly.

When a few minutes passed, you just assumed you were wrong about him coming to find you. You guessed he was just going to the bar or to the bathroom, so when you felt a warm hand settle on your shoulder you figured Jimin returned. You weren’t expecting to see Hoseok behind you. And you weren’t expecting him to look so happy to see you.

“Y/N,” he shouted with a wide smile, “I’m glad I finally found you. I was beginning to think you hadn’t come.”

“No, I came. It’s nice to finally be somewhere other than the office on a Friday night,” you said but then winced. Great, you thought, you sounded like a broken record.

“Ah, yeah, that’s true, you work so hard. Where would we be without you?” He grabbed up one of your hands and lifted it above you, signaling for you to twirl. You did, and when you came back around he crossed your arms gently over one another, almost like he was making you embrace yourself. From behind you could feel the long line of his torso and hips. You were breathless for a second before you realized it was your turn to speak.

“I-I don’t know where I would be either,” you said more quietly, and he hunched a little to hear you better, bringing you flush to him. “I mean, the work is hard but it’s interesting and it’s brought so many great people into my life.” You were struck by how sentimental you must sound. There were a few beats of silence between the two of you as the song changed. You recognized it vaguely as a recent hit you’d heard in a different club a while back. 

He spun you again to face him and smiled again before breaking the silence. “So, Miya says you can dance. Is that true?”

You flushed and made a mental note to throttle your roommate whenever you next saw her. “No, it’s not. I mean...not like you or the rest of the dance line. I can just hold a beat.”

“Oh, come on. Jimin told me you two were dancing earlier. From what he told me, you can definitely do more than just hold a beat.” Something in his tone changed and he sounded like he was challenging you. 

“Okay well, maybe I can do a bit more,” you said more confidently, “but if the wrong song comes on, I don’t think I’ll be able to keep up with you.”

“Really? Well,” he said and reached back over to you to pull you against him, “how about I make sure I keep up with you?”

If it were any other club, with any other guy who wasn’t a creep, you would naturally fall against him and let the beat of the song guide the motion of your hips against his. But this was Hoseok, at a party filled with your coworkers. He sensed your stiffness and wondered if maybe what Jimin told him earlier was wrong, if maybe you weren’t into him like he was into you. 

He began to pull away from you. “I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable, I shouldn’t have--”, he started but the rest of the sentence got stuck in his throat when backed up into him and began to move fluidly. You were anxious about what might happen after tonight, but you were tired of letting opportunities go by. Luckily though, your anxiety turned into excitement when you felt his arm wind itself around your waist and you felt the tips of his fingers skim the skin under the hem of your top.

It was as if all the reservations between the two of you dissipated into the air and you both began to move in earnest against each other. You gave it your all, matching each beat of the song with a precise yet flowing snap of your hips. Hoseok, being the skilled dancer that he was, followed your hips with his own, faithfully. You felt the telltale prickle of sweat on your hairline and an almost pleasant burn in your thighs as the two of you continued to dance together. The song changed to one you didn’t know, with a much slower beat, but the atmosphere didn’t change.

If anything, it felt like it was just the two of you on the dance floor. Hoseok took control when you could no longer predict that beat as well. There was something about the slower tempo and the way he ground against you tightly that made your heartbeat spike. You leaned further against him, your head falling against his shoulder and you instinctively brought a hand up to the nape of his neck to brace yourself. You heard him curse from above you and he brought both of his hands down to your hips to better match you.

You blushed at how oddly erotic the situation was. If someone told you that months after getting hired by BigHit to translate and subtitle VLive videos you would be at an idol’s birthday party with your ass pressed firmly against Jung Hoseok’s crotch, you wouldn’t have believed them. Almost as if he heard your thoughts he began to whisper in your ear.

“You know,” he said as quietly as he could over the music, “I’ve, uh, liked you for some time now. But I was never sure about what you thought about me. For a while I thought you liked Taehyung.”

You threw your head back and laughed at the thought of liking Kim Taehyung. You two had clicked quickly after you joined the staff, but that was more because you were complimentary spirits as opposed to being attracted to one another. He drank in the sight of your carefree laughter and continued.

“After that first day of Hope on the Street, I wondered how anyone could be so genuine. You were kind of an enigma for a while. I didn’t know who you were but I really wanted to know. And you turned out to be really funny and cool.” You continued to rock against him gently as you listened. “And you dance like a dream.”

“I’ve always really admired you. You always make sure the members and fans know they’re loved,” you admitted. He was silent for a minute.

“Do you--I mean, that’s all well and good, really--and this might sound selfish, but…do you like me too?” He sounded so small and excited that you had to laugh.

“Hoseok,” you circled around in his hold so you could face him, “I like you. So much.” His answering smile was nearly blinding. He hugged you to his chest and the two of you began to sway. You rested your arms around his neck contently, resting your chin on his shoulder to let the music wash over you and watch the crowd.

“Y/N, your pocket is flashing”, he said after a while as your phone signaled a stream of texts.

“Can you read them? My hands are a little busy,” you said and you greedily brought one to comb at the hair on the nape of his neck and dipped the other one just below the collar of his shirt to stroke the warm skin there.

“The most recent one is from Miya. It says, ‘Going home with JB’. Should I ask what that means?”

“Mm, maybe not. But, it does mean that our apartment is empty for the night. And we got a ride over here so, I’ll most likely have to find my own way home.” While it wasn’t your initial intent, you decided to let the implication of your words hang in the air between you two.

“Maybe,” he said wrapping his arms around you around you once more and angling his head to speak more privately to you, “I can take you home. It might be pretty late by the time this is all over, but I don’t have anywhere to be tomorrow.”

“We could always go now and hang out at mine.” You run the tip of your nose down the slope of his shoulder. “Or will everyone here miss your presence?”

He gave you a light swat on the butt before quickly disentangling himself from you. “Let’s get out of here.”

Note: Oh my god, I need to work on consistent punctuation. I sat and wrote this in one sitting though i’m lowkey excited about it. That title is so ugly once i come up with something better I’m gonna change it.

[carleencl]

Taeyang White Night in Manila 2017 Experience

After 2 weeks of G-Dragon’s MOTTE in Manila concert, another BIGBANG member held a concert in Manila. This time, it is Dong Youngbae also known as Taeyang. Taeyang as I mentioned, is one of the members of BIGBANG under YG Entertainment and is known for songs like Wedding Dress and Eyes, Nose, Lips.

Last September 22 of this year, Taeyang brought his White Night concert in Manila held at Smart Araneta Coliseum in Cubao, Quezon City. The concert started past 8:00 in the evening as Taeyang himself said that it will be somewhat delayed since we will wait for other VIPs to come even if it is past 8pm.

Around 8:15 in the evening, lights were turned off and “White Night (intro)” was played as sign that Taeyang will be out and will start the concert in a few. Then the music for “Ringa Linga” was played and Taeyang came out from the stage giving all the hype to us, VIPs. Everyone was screaming up to the top of their lungs for Taeyang and singing to the heart’s content as “Ringa Linga” was being played. He was in all white outfit reflecting his title’s concert, “White Night.” After the song, Taeyang said, “Mabuhay! Yeah, Manila you ready? You guys ready? Okay, here we go.” Every VIP were shouting because we are so ready for Taeyang. ❤

“Body” and “Superstar” were the next songs, and every VIP was just having fun and partying together! And of course, he showed some of his dance skills again which made everyone amazed. During “Body,” we were jumping as he sings while for “Superstar,” we were waiving the crownstick with the beat of the song. For “Wake Me Up,” Taeyang was in a slightly elevatad stage at the middle and everyone was singing along with him. “Only Look At Me” and “Wedding Dress” were next, and usual everyone went crazy over the classic songs of Taeyang. Everyone was singing with him and our Youngbae showed his dancinig skills which of course, everyone loves which started all the screaming for him again.

After singing “Wedding Dress,” he had a little talk to us, PH VIPs. I’m not quite sure to some words he said but based on what I heard it is the following:

“Mabuhay! This is Taeyang, nice to meet you. What’s up Manila? White Night concert in Manila, I would like to say thank you for coming to the show. The first time I came to the Manila was for the BIGBANG Alive tour. Ever since then, I’ve been to Manila many times already. The people here are very passionate and amazing. And I am so happy to see you guys again. I miss you guys a lot. I miss you guys. I want you guys? You miss me? Did you miss me? Thank you, I miss you a lot.

I guess, I should talk about my new album. My album, “White Night.” Have you guys keep listening? I guess no one here who doesn’t know my album? Right? I hope not. *laugh* What do you guys think about my new album? It is good right? So tonight, you gotta here a lot of my new songs. Personally, I made most effort and fun making this album. I hope the messaged reached you and that ..

Tonight, should we play the next song? So you guys, can you guess what song is next? What song will be? *VIPs says random songs* The song is, the next song is amazing.”

During when Taeyang asked if VIPs missed him, every VIP was screaming “Yes.” and I really hope he feels that we really do miss our Youngbae. ❤❤

“Amazing” was played followed by “1AM,” “Naked,” and “So Good.” After singing those songs, he said to the crowd: “So now, I hope we gotta sing along the next song. You’all ready? I want you to sing as loud as you can, okay? Ready, let’s go!” And “I Need A Girl” was next. He sang the song in acoustic version first then followed by the original one. Everyone were going crazy since it was one of Taeyang’s best classic songs of all time! ❤

Next songs were from his recent album which were “Empty Road” and “Ride.” His voice was just so awesome. It really does feel that Taeyang ate his own CD because his voice is just so perfect.

And the stage that I liked the best was for the song “Love You To Death.” I just loved the stage where it seems there was a solar eclipse and Taeyang stood up at the middle. The effects were also great which made the concert more awesome!

Next song made every VIP teary eyed since it was “Last Dance” by BIGBANG. Everyone was really singing with Taeyang singing ‘Last Dance’ and I really do hope he knows how we miss the five kings. After the song, we chanted “Dong Youngae! Dong Youngbae! Dong Youngbae!”

He said: “You guys having fun? That song is you just head. That song is BIGBANG’s song. What song? How is the song when I sing it alone? How is it?Whenever I sing this song, I miss the BIGBANG members. You guys miss them too? I think the biggest happiness and enjoying my life is having my BIGBANG members. We were to perform our music and last for 10 years doing our music because of you guys. You guys have always been our side.

Did you guys like my concert? From the new performances? Hope you guys can… my music. That brings to much joy to me and I dont i would ever forget tonight. I love you. So, I have to ask what time is it now? *everyone tells different time to him* No one’s telling me the right time.”

The last song before the encore was “Darling.” He was again in all white outfit having white long sleeves. Everyone was singing with “Darling youuuu” and still cheering for him.

Every VIP were shouting “Dong Youngbae! Dong Youngbae! Dong Youngbae!” waiting for his encore and after a few minutes he was out with a new outfit.

For his encore he sang “Break Down,” “Good Boy,” and “Stay With Me.” Everyone was all hyped singing with Taeyang. Every VIP were singing loudly and chanting for him. It seemed the concert turned to a big party full of VIPs. ❤

“Bang Bang Bang,” and “Fantastic Baby” were up next and as expected, every VIP went wild with the two songs. Who wouldn’t be, right? Everyone was singing with Taeyang even the parts of other BIGBANG  members. Even the fanchants were on point during those two songs. This just shows how VIPs truly miss BIGBANG. ❤

“Eyes, Nose, Lips” was the finale song for the White Night in Manila. Everyone was singing along with Taeyang again, as in word by word. It was an event worth to be part of and to witness it.

Again, no regrets in attending Taeyang’s White Night in Manila. The concert is worth watching and it was really fun! It is another concert that I will never forget and am happy to be able to watch it. Also to be able to witness Dong Youngbae having his first solo concert in Manila. ❤❤❤

To Dong Youngbae, VIPs will always support and love you (and BIGBANG too!). We will wait until all the five of you will comeback and be together again. VIPs will always be here until whenever! ❤❤❤

SETLIST

Ringa Linga

Body

Superstar

Wake Me Up

Only Look At Me

Wedding Dress

Amazing

1AM

Naked

So Good

I Need A Girl

Empty Road

Ride

Love You To Death

Last Dance

Darling

ENCORE:

Break Down

Good Boy

Stay With Me

Bang Bang Bang

Fantastic Baby

Eyes, Nose, Lips

💸This is not a sponsored/paid article.

For collaborations, sponsors, and other inquiries you may send an e-mail at hicarleen@gmail.com

[blueboxesandtrafficcones]

The French Connection - Chapter 8

A HardyxMiller AU

Ellie Miller is left to go on her honeymoon alone after a devastating secret about her fiance comes to light - halfway through the wedding ceremony.  Sitting in St Pancras International in London waiting for her train, she runs into none other than her uni rival/best friend Alec Hardy, on the run from his own recent heartbreak.

They decide to make use of Ellie’s pre-paid trip, rekindling their friendship and escaping real life; yet, it turns out their years at uni are the hardest to outrun. Based on this prompt from @timepetalscollective  

Chapters will be posted every Wednesday and Sunday.  Beta’d by the wonderful @stupidsatsuma

This fic will remain at a T rating, but there is some steam.

Masterlist  |  AO3

---

The phone ringing jolted Ellie awake, and she swatted blindly towards the nightstand until she found it, bringing the handle to her mouth.

“‘Lo?”

“Bonjour, madam, your requested wake-up call,” the entirely-too-perky woman from the front desk chirped, and rather than respond verbally, Ellie just groaned and hung up.

“Wha’ was that?” Hardy grumbled from somewhere next to her, one arm flung across her hips.

Ellie buried her head in the pillow, too tired to think.  “Wake-up call.”

“Why?”

“Fuck if I know.”  Then she gasped as his lips found her neck.  “That wasn’t an invitation!”  She only recognized her poor word choice when he tensed, pulling away.  “No, wait,” she protested, rolling over and directly into his chest, unaware he was so close.  “Hi.”

His grunt sounded particularly pained, and she attributed it to her wine hangover why it took so long to understand the reason.

“Ooh, sorry,” she grimaced, easing her knee away from his groin and nuzzling into his neck in apology.  “All right?”

Taking a few deep breaths he slowly relaxed, and she felt more than saw his nod.  “I’ll be fine.”  Tentatively he wrapped his arm around her, making her sigh heavily.  “Why did we need a wake-up call?”

“‘Cause we have to check out at ten, and be on an eleven o’clock train,” she murmured, drowsy.

“What time is it now?”

“Eight.”

He yawned, cuddling her closer.  “Plenty of time.”

Ellie drifted, too tired to wonder at how right it felt pressed against him, skin to skin, limb to limb.  For as thin and bony as he looked, he was surprisingly comfortable to rest against.

Eventually he began to shift, and she blinked awake.  “Wha’s wrong?”

“Loo.”

She obligingly rolled away, shivering at the shock of cool air slipping beneath the covers, startling her awake – and then reality began to crash down around her ears, as she started to process what precisely had happened the previous evening.  And at midnight.  And early this morning.  If her shoddy memory served, they’d woken twice for more… enjoyable activities.

Oh, shit.  Shit, shit, shit.

Bolting upright, she had her dressing gown belted and was starting to pack by the time he emerged from the bathroom, though she couldn’t keep herself from scanning his nude form.  God, he looks good.  Stop it, Eleanor!

“We should really start getting ready,” she said brusquely, turning her back on him in an attempt to resist jumping him.  “It’s already after nine, and we still need breakfast.”

She waited with bated breath to see what he would say, and was disappointed when, after a moment of silence, she peeked over her shoulder to find him merely pulling on his pants and beginning to pack himself.

Have I made a horrible mistake?

-

The feeling of déjà vu was almost visceral as Hardy sank into the aisle seat on the train.  Much as it had been the week before, things between them were awkward and stilted, and he was frustrated that all of the ground they’d gained had vanished so easily.

Last night was a mistake, he was disappointed to realize.  It shouldn’t have happened.  It had been good- no, great, in the moment, but if it put them back at square one or worse, it wasn’t worth it.  I don’t want to lose her again.

He glanced at Ellie, watched her stare out the window at the bustling platform.

How do I fix this?

-

Ellie spent the hour-long train ride out to Chessy glaring out the window, wracked with indecision.

On the one hand, it had been an incredible night, full of vulnerability and heat, and in that sense, she had no regrets.  It had been a release she needed in several ways, and she was immensely proud of herself for not crying, though she’d been on the verge a few times.  And Hardy… she bit her lip, hoping the flush she felt creeping over her face wasn’t visible.

Mhmm.  Either her champagne-soused memories of graduation night didn’t do him justice, or he’d significantly improved his technique in the intervening years.

And yet…

Her five-year relationship had only ended a week ago, in an unnecessarily dramatic and traumatic way, watching the man she loved be arrested halfway through their vows.  It had been devastating, soul-crushing, and sent her into a tailspin questioning everything.  This… this thing with Hardy, the man himself… he meant too much to her, and she was terrified that it would just turn into a rebound, and that wasn’t what she wanted.

Plus, he just got out of a relationship himself, she had to remind herself- that was why he’d been free to come on the trip anyway, a suspension for punching his girlfriend’s side bloke.  Are we just reaching for what’s familiar and there?

He didn’t seem any different than he had been at uni, maybe a little older, a little more tired of life, but then again he’d always been good at hiding himself.  Just look at how I had no fucking clue about his mum dying.

I don’t know what to do.

-

They were staying on-property, their hotel only steps from the train station so they walked, dragging their luggage behind them.  Hardy had never been so grateful for wheels on suitcases in his life, as they bumped along the path to the hotel’s front doors.  Ellie strode determinedly ahead of him, and he let himself indulge the desire to study her.

While he generally considered himself not to be a fan of people in general, something about this woman had captivated him from the moment they’d met on the first day of classes and held his attention ever since.  She was bright and bubbly, a big personality that wasn’t terribly overbearing, but underneath the soft exterior was a solid steel core, one more than capable of taking a hit.  The only woman in a class of thirty men, she’d leaned into the femininity, making herself stand out in pastels and skirts – which had only served to stun the rest of them when it came down to the wire, when they finally saw the grit and determination lurking beneath.

He’d never been fooled by the show.  After all, he’d done the same thing, hiding his true self behind a suit-and-tie uniform, rough Scottish accent, and a dead-eyed glare.  Over time he’d committed himself so thoroughly to his armor that sometimes, in the dead of night, he wondered who he was without it.

This trip, without even realizing it, he’d broken free.  When he’d tried to wear a suit on their first morning Ellie had nearly busted a gut laughing, forcing him into what she deemed appropriate clothes.  The only time he’d worn a tie was to dinner several evenings, and only when she was dressed up herself.

It felt strange; he hadn’t gone so long without wearing a full suit since leaving Glasgow, but it also felt freeing, somehow.  He felt free with her, able to forget life’s trials and tribulations awaiting him back in Sandbrook, had barely thought about his career despite the danger it was currently in.

He was too caught up in her.

Following her into the hotel he nearly tripped over her when she stopped dead, biting back a curse.  Then he looked up, taking in the lobby, eyes widening slightly.

Shit.  This is something else.

“It’s like a palace,” Ellie breathed, wonder in her voice, and despite himself, he had to agree, lacking a better description.

Three stories high it looked like a Georgian mansion, with white-painted wooden panels.  Bright and open, the focal point was the main staircase, going straight up to the first floor and a landing before splitting off and reach for the second floor.

A magnificent chandelier hung from the ceiling, and even he had to admit the entire effect was fairly spectacular.  Exactly the kind of overwhelming extravagance one would expect from Disney.

“Not bad,” he just shrugged when she looked at him though, repressing a smile when she huffed and rolled her eyes.

“Fine, mister unimpressed.  I’ll go get us checked in.”  Ellie wandered over to the right where reception was, abandoning her suitcase, which he promptly rolled closer to himself before continuing to look around.

For being a Saturday the lobby was fairly empty, though he supposed most guests were likely already in the park.  He was just thinking This could be a hotel anywhere, what makes it so special? when he realized that nearly every piece of furniture contained something Disney.  The hall table, one of the first things in line of sight walking through the doors, had two glass cases on it – one containing Mickey Mouse in a wizard’s outfit, the other Pinocchio.  Really?

“Isn’t this beautiful?” Ellie gushed, appearing at his elbow.  “Here, your MagicPass.”  She forced a card into his hand, the size of a credit card but blue and gold, containing the outline of the castle.  “It’s your room key, ticket to the parks, FastPass, charge card… pretty much all you’ll need while here.  Don’t lose it.  Our room is ready, d’you want to go up?”

Hardy swallowed harshly, looking into her face.  She was doing her best to be jolly and excited, hiding her worries, but he knew her better than that, could see the tension and exhaustion beneath the surface.

“Sure.”

As they headed for the lift he wondered what would happen when they reached the privacy of the room, how she would react.  Ideally, they’d lie down for a nap, or possibly even a cuddle, but his instinct told him the moment had passed, at least for now.  Everything that had happened under the cover of darkness would be forgotten for the time being, swept away, and she would be too filled with anxious tension to allow either of them a moment’s rest.

Twenty feet down the corridor they stopped at a door, Ellie using her ‘MagicPass’ to unlock it, and he held his breath as she pushed it open.

-

Ellie bit her lip, wondering if she’d made the right decision as she swung open the hotel room door.  She’d booked the least expensive option room-wise for this leg of the trip, intending to spend more time in the parks than in the room.  When checking in she’d had an opportunity to switch to a room with two double beds rather than the single large double bed that she’d booked.

It had felt like a test put forth by the universe.  Switching to the two beds was the smart thing to do; it said that what had happened had been a lapse in judgement, that she had no intention of letting it recur.  Keeping the one bed would mean willingly sharing a bed with Hardy, and allowing for the possibility of a repeat performance.

Dragging her suitcase inside she kept her back to him, waiting to hear his reaction, entirely uncertain of whether she’d made the right choice.

“One bed,” he said neutrally, and something loosened inside her chest.

“Yeah, I couldn’t get them to switch it,” she lied, hoisting her suitcase onto the bed and unzipping it to unpack.  “Hope that’s not a problem.”

Hardy lifted his own luggage next to hers, unzipping it, and she took a moment to stare once he’d thrown back the top.  Inside everything was perfectly arranged, neatly organized and looking professionally packed.

Then she looked into her own, where everything was thrown in haphazardly and chaotically, and drew a shuddering breath.  “I’m going to take a shower.”

“Fine.”  He turned towards the bureau just as she tried to move past him towards the bathroom, resulting in them crashing into each other, his bundle of clothes falling to the floor in favor of grabbing her waist, keeping her upright.

“Thanks for the save,” she whispered, momentarily stunned by the near-fall, painfully conscious of his hands on her hips, her own on his biceps.  They were impossibly close, chest to chest, hip to hip, and her eyes unwillingly darted to his lips and then the bed behind him.

Hardy merely grunted, fingers tightening, drawing her closer, and she went willingly.

Please.  She was so lost in his eyes she didn’t immediately recognize the beat pounding through her.  Please, please, please.  Say you want me.

They grew closer still, a breath apart now, heads tilting, and her eyes slipped closed.  Just a little closer…

Time seemed to stand still, the only sound their shaky breathing and the pounding of her heart, a wonderfully impossible moment.  They say Disney’s the happiest place on Earth, she thought distantly, waiting for his lips to meet hers. 

I need some happy right now.

No, that’s not true – I just need Alec.