#including the music to the clothes to the environment to the story even

[pwurrz]

people are using the “learn to separate fiction and reality” to justify genshin’s and more specifically hoyoverse’s racism and whitewashing of african cultures and. well. i can’t say i’m even a little bit surprised.

[goodvibes24hrs]

Headcanons I shared on twt that I’d like to share here ☺️ (from 2023 to now):

Margo’s a 3D digital artist, Miles is more traditional, & Hobie likes to tailor his own clothes. They have days where they all occupied a single room and work silently together with music/a movie in the background.

Broke: Jefferson doesn’t like Hobie cuz his laces/punk, Woke: Jefferson likes Hobie cause he reminds him of Aaron.

Jefferson knows what it’s like to live in a tough environment. Does he approve of the things Aaron & Hobie’s done? No. Does he understand it? Yes! And he’ll be damned if he lets Hobie handled it on his own now that he knows about him 😤

And if I said Rio AND Jeff ask about Hobie all the time to Miles?? And if I said they’d tell him to invite him to the rooftop cookouts hM?? And if I said Rio & Jeff were the type of parents to always including any form of family gatherings with Hobie in mind, HMM?!

If Aaron was still alive, he would have loved Hobie.

Manifests in your mind Karl throwing Hobie over his shoulders and spinning him around really fast as they laugh.

Hobie’s the type to hold up & play music from a boombox outside Miles window to serenade him at 3 am. Jefferson from his window telling him to go home, Hobie cranks the boombox louder.

CyberPunkFlower hc: Margo & Hobie both being nervous to meet Miles parents and get surprised when Rio & Jefferson hug them at the front door (Especially from Jefferson who held both of them tightly in his hug) Miles had talked so fondly about his partners to his parents. He even explained how they both helped him escape the SS. Rio & Jefferson loved them before they even walked through their door.

CyberPunkFlower thought: Margo & Hobie being overwhelmed with how opening loving & supporting Miles’ parents are to them. They’ve both had a one to one moment with Rio/Jefferson that solidified that feeling of “You’re always welcomed in our home”. Margo being quick to accept their affection/attention vs Hobie being standoffish cuz he’s not used to this kind of positive adult/parental presents. Over time & some patience he’ll be accepting/used to it.

My singing voice hc for Hobie is Bakar (listen to his song Dracula 🎤👀)

PunkFlower/Morales Family thought: Hobie, bruised/roughed up from a battle, hoppin’ in to Miles universes to relax with him only to realize: 1. He’s not home & 2. Rio’s the only one home. Cut to Rio hovering over to Hobie & being worried about his injuries. Rio tends to his wounds (even after Hobie explains his quick healing). As Rio’s wrapping him up she talks about how much her son speaks so fondly about Hobie. Tell him embarrassing stories about her boy. Fun little conversations that will come back and haunt Miles lol.

GoldenPunkFlowerByte thoughts: Pavitr trying to help Rio in the kitchen, Miles preventing Hobie from stealing bites out of the pots, Margo talking with Jefferson and playing with Billie.

Hobie’s spiderband are the type to give each other tattoos. They give each other a heart tattoo 💙🩷💜💚💛❤️

Hobie’s the type to bring flowers for Rio & Jefferson when he’s taking Miles out on a date.

GoldenPunkFlowerByte: Pavitr, despite his size, is always the big spoon (He will jump if he has to hold Miles & Hobie) My guy loves to bury his face in his partners shoulders. He loves playing with the loose strands of Margo’s hair while she’s coding.

I really like the idea of not only Miles’ family meeting Hobie but also the Morales meeting Hobie’s SpiderBand cuz that’s his family. He grew up homeless & his band means the world to him. Rio & Jefferson would love this goofy bunch of misfits.

Hobie making Rio a dimensional phone cuz she “wanted to call and check up on you & your friends, Flaquito!”

To end it off: Before anyone comes here and says “Hobie’s an adult” pleases read these =

Tho Hobie does not have a confirmed age, he's been described most times as a teenager from 16-17 year old (I see him as 16)

[sweetbottletops]

Neat little interview with Arai Sumiko.

(Bad MTL below the cut. Especially note already nuanced love talk in the original language further removed by MTL)

── What was the idea for the story of two girls, Mitsuki and Aya?

I've always wanted to draw a story between girls. I also like the story of two people from opposite worlds with gaps, and I think that's where I came up with the idea. I love to draw, and I used to post things like two-page comics with no dialogue on social media from time to time. I thought that if there were no lines, it would be easier for people overseas to spread the word, and even if they didn't understand Japanese, they would enjoy it. One of them is the source of 『気になってる人が男じゃなかった』.

──『気になってる人が男じゃなかった』 received a great response when it was announced, and now Arai's X has more than 1 million followers. Was the announcement on social media also due to the ease of communication overseas that you just mentioned?

I didn't think it would be like this, so I didn't think too much about it (laughs). I was very happy to be able to connect with people from overseas through SNS. There was a time when I lived abroad, so I feel that spending time in a completely different environment has made me who I am today. Perhaps, the number of stories between women in the world is not as large as that of love stories between men and women, or between men, so it may have been suitable for social media.

── Why did you want to depict the relationship between two girls?

I think the relationship between women is very intimate. That feeling when we got really close…… They wear matching clothes, listen to the same music, and spend hours together without talking. It's not like love, it's a love that has always been there. Isn't love over when you break up? I have a bit of a prejudice in me, and I want to draw something that transcends it. If we can be together even if we don't have a relationship title, I think that's love. I'm sorry, it's hard to understand.

── I've always longed for a relationship that can't be named, or a relationship where it's just two people, so I feel like I understand it.

We all have a lonely part and loneliness that we can't share with others. Especially when you're young, everyone has a lot of different feelings. However, I think that if I can create an existence that resonates with such a soft part of my heart, it will last a lifetime.

── How did you come up with the character of Mitsuki, who was thought to be mysterious older brother, but was a cool girl? It's completely my preference, but I love people who are women but can see the masculineness, so I created the character of Mitsuki from there. What if a sober girl actually has a tattoo? And such? I also wanted to depict her kindness. Mitsuki is unconscious, but she is naturally compassionate.

── Handsome and gentle, isn't it? As a way of depicting sexuality, the feeling that the existence of the person is affirmed as it is, including the fact that she is a woman, is conveyed from the drawing, and it is exciting.

Thank you. I'm happy because I'm particular about the shape of Mitsuki's slightly bony wrist line, fingers, and nails. There are parts of the picture in Volume 1 that make me think, "Wow" when I reread it now, but I did my best to make Mitsuki's expression when she tells Aya that she wants to be friends. From the time of the name, I drew a lot of facial expressions (laughs). I've improved a bit at drawing, so I've been drawing a lot lately, and I think I'm good at it a lot.

── It's a memorable scene where the two become friends at school.

I love the American TV drama "Glee" (a music-comedy-drama about a high school choir where minorities gather), and I grew up watching that show. I was moved by the story of a sparkling person who seems to have everything, but in fact has emotions that cannot be told to others, so I wanted to draw it myself. Aya has that element in it. Aya is feminine on the outside, but she is shy. When it comes to other people, she's the kind of girl with a lot of grit who confronts her with a "huh?"

── In the second volume, the individuality of each of them became more apparent.

Mitsuki hides herself at school, but the way she hides her personality is actually very attractive. It's fun to depict how talking to Aya brings out more and more of her true self at school.

──It's so nice to be the most yourself when you're with the people you love. Being able to be yourself means having confidence in yourself. By not worrying about what people think, you will be able to see what you care about and the right person for you. Like Mitsuki brought Aya closer. The person who is most saved by being dignified is yourself. That's why I want to value my own individuality, and I draw manga with the hope that I will be able to do so.

── Music is also an important element of this manga. It is colored in two colors, yellow-green and black, which are rare in manga, and when I first read it, I thought it was rock.

Actually, I chose yellow-green 15 minutes before the first episode was posted on social media (laughs). I didn't think it would go viral, and I thought it would be nice to have a rock feel and a slightly dangerous color, so I put it in on a whim. That Last Minute Decision (the last minute decision) may have been a good one.

── NIRVANA and other music are featured in the film, but what is Arai's own musical journey?

When I was little, I loved BECK's album "Guero" the most in the world, and I remember dancing to it at my father's office. That's where my love for rock music started. NIRVANA's music is exceptional, but I also sympathize with frontman Kurt Cobain's feminism and pushing the boundaries of gender. I was an only child, so I spent a lot of time alone, and I moved to a place where I didn't speak the language, so I feel like I was able to cultivate my imagination while filling in the silence with music.

──Even in 『気になってる人が男じゃなかった 』 the music connects the completely different worlds of Mitsuki and Aya and expands them even further.

Let's see. The last scene of Volume 2 is very memorable for me. Aya stops Mitsuki from getting off the pedestrian bridge that can be taken as a stage, but I think it's a friend, and I think it's love. There's also a love for the music that Mitsuki makes.

── "This song connects the world!!" I was also fascinated by the straight line. Is there anything you keep in mind when drawing music?

In my case, I'm completely self-satisfied and just put in the music I like, and I can't say anything admirable, but I think a lot about which songs go well with each scene. There are scenes made from music, and the scene where Aya and Mitsuki hold hands in Volume 2 came to mind when I was listening to The Shins.

──Official playlist But it's also fun to read while actually playing music.

I'm a little embarrassed because I choose it myself (laughs), but I'm happy. I didn't tell anyone, but the official playlist is trying to arrange the songs that Mitsuki and Aya each chose so that they alternate as much as possible. Of course, the flow of music is the most important priority.

──Knowing that changes the way you listen even more! I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for them. Thank you very much.

[x]

(Is she a Dianna Agron stan? This is the second connection after this earlier in the year. Also I think this Glee thing gives her an honorary Tumblr diploma too.)

[bones-clouds]

books i read in 2024:

"catherine house"

elisabeth tomas

rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

genre: gothic, mystery, thriller

synopsis:

A story about a dangerously curious young undergraduate whose rebelliousness leads her to discover a shocking secret involving an exclusive circle of students . . . and the dark truth beneath her school’s promise of prestige.

You are in the house and the house is in the woods.

You are in the house and the house is in you . . .

Catherine House is a school of higher learning like no other. Hidden deep in the woods of rural Pennsylvania, this crucible of reformist liberal arts study with its experimental curriculum, wildly selective admissions policy, and formidable endowment, has produced some of the world’s best minds: prize-winning authors, artists, inventors, Supreme Court justices, presidents. For those lucky few selected, tuition, room, and board are free. But acceptance comes with a price. Students are required to give the House three years—summers included—completely removed from the outside world. Family, friends, television, music, even their clothing must be left behind. In return, the school promises its graduates a future of sublime power and prestige, and that they can become anything or anyone they desire.

Among this year’s incoming class is Ines, who expects to trade blurry nights of parties, pills, cruel friends, and dangerous men for rigorous intellectual discipline—only to discover an environment of sanctioned revelry. The school’s enigmatic director, Viktória, encourages the students to explore, to expand their minds, to find themselves and their place within the formidable black iron gates of Catherine.

For Ines, Catherine is the closest thing to a home she’s ever had, and her serious, timid roommate, Baby, soon becomes an unlikely friend. Yet the House’s strange protocols make this refuge, with its worn velvet and weathered leather, feel increasingly like a gilded prison. And when Baby’s obsessive desire for acceptance ends in tragedy, Ines begins to suspect that the school—in all its shabby splendor, hallowed history, advanced theories, and controlled decadence—might be hiding a dangerous agenda that is connected to a secretive, tightly knit group of students selected to study its most promising and mysterious curriculum.

[deathnotenerds]

☛ GET INSIDE YOUR CHARACTER'S HEAD! aka The Excessively Detailed Headcanon Meme (MADE BY: @not-just-a-letter )

Not all questions will be the same, because I translated it into my own language and then back into English😭 Enjoy💅

2) Daily routine!

Dark gets up at about 8, goes to the

kitchen to make some tea, takes it back to the room and drinks it. Meanwhile, he spends half an hour playing chess online.

-At 9 o'clock he makes his bed, brushes his teeth, gets dressed and helps with the investigation online/goes to the crime scene.

12:00 p.m. He takes a lunch break at work, and usually makes his own lunch.

-At 1 p.m. Take a short break talking to L

He continues to work on the Kira case from 1

p.m. to 9 p.m

He gets home at 9:00 p.m., changes his clothes and sits down in his room to meditate so as not to be overwhelmed at work.

- He has dinner at 21:30

- From 21:50 to 22:30 he plays chess again.

-He showers until 22:40-23:00

- He sleeps at 23:30

3) Do they exercise, and if so, what do they do? How often?

Not really, sometimes he does some stretching exercises when his back hurts. However, he especially likes to play tennis.

4 ) What would they do if they needed to make dinner but the kitchen was busy?

He probably wouldn't even dare to approach the kitchen. He would wait quietly in his room for them to go out. If his family members are there, he actually goes in, but he just stands and waits patiently for them to finish their part.

5 ) Cleanliness habits (personal, kitchen was busy? workspace, etc.)

His room is generally fine. He compulsively cleans it because he once read that he will feel more relaxed in a cleaner environment. If there is something he doesn't use (e.q. a glass), he immediately takes it out after him. Wash it after cookina. If he were to vomit, he immediately wipes it away and sprays his room with perfume.

6 ) Eating habits and sample daily menu

Dark often eats rice or fish that are less oily/greasy. He eats less meat as it often makes him sick. He especially likes traditional Japanese food, cinnamon, crackers ,and broccoli. He also likes to eat licorice but he always forgets that it makes him vomit.

7 ) Favorite way to waste time and feelings surrounding wasting time

He usually plays chess online, but L also often invites him to play chess online and live, because he knows that he likes it. He also often bakes cookies and listens to music. He enjoys talking with L and his family.

8 ) Favorite indulgence and feelings surrounding indulging

Various chessboards, empty notebooks, so that most of them have not vet been filled. Too many essential oils, incense, or similar items needed for meditation. He buys so many of these because he is afraid that they will run out suddenly, but in reality there is always just too much.

9 ) Makeup?

Basically, he doesn’t wear makeup.

10 ) Neuroses? Do they recognize them as such?

Obviously!

11 ) Favorite book genre?

Crime fiction/detective story

13 ) Sexual Orientation?

He’s pansexual!

14 ) Physical abnormalities? (Both visible and not, including injuries/disabilities, long-term illnesses, food-intolerances, etc.)

Nervous system problem

15) Biggest and smallest short-term goal?

Dark's primary goal is to protect his family and solve criminal cases (mostly the Kira case). I think hs smallest goal is to learn how to cook well even foods that he doesn't eat, only people close to him eat.

16 ) Same question

17 ) Preferred mode of dress and rituals surrounding dress

Dark usually had it figured out dressing. He dresses averagely, but what cannot be missed is that he wears a necklace and his earphones in evry outfit.

18 ) Favorite drink?

Greentea

19 ) What do they think about before falling asleep at night?

He thinks a little about L, because he likes him a lot. likes to talk to him. Sometimes tomorrow. If you're feeling frustrated he also think about what to bake. it's possible that he's overthinking the same thing over and over and panicking.

20 ) Childhood illnesses? Any interesting stories behind them?

He probably had asthma.

21) Turn-ons? Turn-offs?

Dark will be a little cheerful if someone comforts him a little physically if he is frustrated.

In contrast, it shuts down completely when it is around people.

22 ) Given a blank piece of paper, pencil, and nothing to do, what would happen?

He would write down an unlearned recipe on it / maybe write down the most important information about the investigation.

23 ) How organized are they? How does this organization/ disorganization manifest in their everyday life?

Dark is a very thorough and organized person. He thinks everything through logically, he doesn't talk unnecessarily. Extremely organized.

24 ) Is there one subject of study that they excel at? Or do they even care about intellectual pursuits at all?

Dark excels in matematics

25 ) How do they see themselves 5 years from today?

Dark does not focus on what will happen in the future. It deals with the present to contribute to the future.

26 ) Do they have any plans for the future? Any contingency plans if things don't work out?

Nothing special, he just want to be calmer. And if they don't allow Him to work for the police anymore, then His emergency plan would be to work as a confectioner.

27 ) What is their biggest regret?

That in the Justice case, when Nico said that Nadim was replaced, Dark claimed that it wasn't true, that Nico was just crazy. When he found out that he had indeed been replaced, he was deeply saddened.

28 ) Who do they see as their best friend? Their worst enemy?

Dark doesn't have many friends, but he had a good time with Naomi during American Baby Murder case. Dark has no particular enemies.

29 ) Reaction to sudden extrapersonal disaster (eg The house is on fire! What do they do?)

He starts to panic a lot. Shaky, even very dizzy. If the situation is very . he vomits a lot when he is in such a frustrated situation. In this case,he can rough, he cries, but most importantly sometimes dry out.

30 ) Reaction to sudden interpersonal disaster (eg close family member suddenly dies)

Same as question 29. In this case, vomiting of blood can be added if, Bc He has vomited a lot and his mucous membrane is damaged, or there is a risk of fainting.

31 ) Most prized possession?

His computer.

32) Thoughts on material possessions on general?

He doesn't mind if someone makes a bigger financial investment in something, just don't overdo it for something that isn't worth it.

33 ) Concept of home and family?

His family is very important to Dark, as he maintains a very good relationship with them. He likes his family members.

34 ) Thoughts on privacy? (Are they

Dark usually doesn't talk to anyone outside of his family and L. He does not share confidential information about his own life.

35 ) What activities do they enjoy, but consider to be a waste of time?

Dark likes to try on clothes sometimes.

36 ) What makes them feel guilty?

If he determines something wrong in a crime case (Like Nadim's case, for example)

37 ) Are they more analytical or more emotional in their decision making?

Dark usually makes decisions using logic and is less concerned with his feelings even if he knows it will be bad for him.

38 ) What recharges them when they're feeling drained?

He listens to music or simply puts on headphones to drown out the noise. Possibly meditation or any breathing exercise.

39 ) Would you say that they have a superiority-complex? Inferiority complex? Neither?

He probably has an inferiority complex.

40) How misanthropic are they?

Dark is more afraid of people as they are very loud to him and tire him out a lot.

41) -

42 ) How far did they get in formal education? What are their views on formal education vs self-education?

He graduated from university and has a diploma. He actually likes self-education, I think he was also on a pastry course.

43 ) His religion?

He doesn't want to interfere in religions.

44 ) Superstitions or views on the occult?

Dark fears all kinds of superstitions because he believes them. He doesn't have so many occult views.

45 ) Do they express their thoughts through words or deeds?

Rather with actions, because he usually keeps quiet about his feelings.

46 ) If they were to fall in love, who (or what) is their ideal?

Dark likes to be patient with him and wait for him to dare to communicate with them. He likes the other person to be a little attentive, but not overly so. On the outside, He likes it when someone has black eyes because he thinks it's cute.

47) How do they express love?

He does their favors (e.g. cooks Their food, brings them things), sometimes physically touches them if they’re okay with it (gives them hugs, kisses, etc.

48 ) If this person were to get into a fist fight, what is their fighting style like?

He can’t

49 ) Is this person afraid of dying? Why or why not?

He is very afraid of it, he is seized with terror when he thinks about it. He is afraid that it will hurt him a lot.

That’s all! Have a nice day!:3

[andmaybegayer]

Last Monday of the Week 2023-07-03

There's situations but I'm handling it and everything will be fine

Listening: Missed the latest song from We Kill Cowboys, Pink Codeine. I love We Kill Cowboys but they do most of their music live and release albums almost never, and even when I still lived in South Africa they mostly play around Cape Town, so I have not heard much of their new shit barring what lands up online.

They changed labels to Mongrel Records recently. Mongrel handles a lot of the heavy rock stuff around ZA, some good bands including Acid Magus, Springbok Nude Girls, All This For Nothing, and Ruff Majik.

Reading: Kaiju Preservation Society, sci-fi fluff from Scalzi. A guy down on his luck during The COVID gets recruited to go along as grunt labour on a scientific expedition to parallel universe Greenland, where there are giant kaiju roaming around in tropical forest.

Very loose spec bio that is nonetheless fun to read about, Kaiju are giant nuclear-powered walking biomes covered in various parasites, commensalists, and mutualists that scour the nearby area for food and give some to the Kaiju in exchange for mobility and protection. Like if mycorhizzal fungi were wolves.

At its best it is a light workplace comedy on a research base, and a moderate action romp. There is a story but it's not anything special. It is fun that our Protagonist has a literature masters and is there mostly to move heavy objects. I enjoy the feeling behind scientific expedition living and I'm still a little bitter about not getting on the Antarctic expedition so I enjoy reading stories about similar environments.

Very much "I wrote this in COVID when all I could think about was COVID and I wanted to imagine a guy for whom pretty much everything goes okay." I enjoyed it enough, with modern sci-fi style snark and snappy one liners.

Watching: Nothing, fell behind on the Fast and Furious watch because it's hard to write about #4, since it's just #1 again.

Also assembling a bunch of Ikea furniture, I have a home office desk now and more than the bare minimum space to stash clothing. In a month or two I'll also have a desktop computer, but that's future me problems.

Making: Made bread as part of what will hopefully be an ongoing project to improve my breadmaking. I can almost always make something vaguely serviceable but it's always pretty random whether I can get bread to behave the way I want it to.

Playing: Also very little, did another bonus level or two in Terra Nil. The challenges are much more interesting in the bonus levels, they force you to consider some much longer view tasks like "leave enough low lying soil intact for wetlands" and "manage river access for your cleanup" but still not too challenging on normal mode.

Tools and Equipment: When I was choosing a kettle I insisted on one that had a minimum boil volume of no more than 500ml, the one my parents have has a rated minimum of 800ml which is positively wasteful when I mostly boil a single cup for tea. Anyway the one I got has a 250ml minimum boil which is so good. You can do one cup of tea and drain it basically dry. Winning. Great for my sense of accomplishment.

[starillusion13]

Their Little Agent

Pairing: mafia! (taeyong, Jaehyun, Mark, Jeno, Haechan, Jaemin) x undercover agent! reader

Genre: SMUT, Romance, Mafia

W.C: 32k. Network: @k-vanity

Warnings: smut smut smut...YES I AM DOWN BAD FOR NCT...mention of crimes, trafficking and talk of selling off reader, inappropriate touch, dirty talks, and they got good beatings from our y/n, mention of mafia business and dirty business, threats, crying, sedative, unconscious, blood, trust, sexual-harassment (just a small mention), possessiveness, pool sex, fingering, cock-warming, biting, choking, lots of kissing, anger, dominance, corruption, dom-sub dynamic, threesome, four+fivesome(?), slight switch! reader, slight switch! hyuck, dom! nct, sub! reader, oral(f and m rec.), voyeorism, lots of cum, clothes on sex, nipple play, edging, orgasm denial, unprotected sex(don’t do it sillies), overstimulation, multiple orgasms, aftercare and the romance.

NOTE: please I want to thanks to people for reading and reblogging. Reviews are always appreciated. Spread love not hate. I don’t know if this is how you wanted it to be but I hope you have enjoyed <3. @jolinaprincess thanks for waiting for this so long and here it comes the menu you have ordered. I deserve NCT, please help me to get them. pleaseeeeee ;~; MDNI🔞

HAVE FUN BABYGIRLS!

The  Flamingo Club is always vibrant and loud like many other days. Even if the venue is a nightclub, with its different guests visiting the rooms led it to become busier in the daytime too. The different businessmen requested for the private rooms and scheduled the meetings in the early hours of the morning. It welcomes a lot of workers in different positions and well you ought to be the one of them.

Being a government official, also an undercover agent, you need a change of environment. Of course, you can't lead a normal life like any other person but definitely can escape reality for a while. A nightclub offers an exhilarating escape from the everyday, where music, dance and social interaction create unforgettable experiences. Moreover, for you this is more than just an enjoyment. This nightclub attracts a diverse crowd, often including young adults, party goers and socialites. Some have dresses ranging from casual chic to more formal. You have heard about the security and safety measures of the club – it has strict protocol and policies to maintain a safe environment.

But it's far from that. There's news in the underground world that the nightclub is rumored to be a part of a trafficking ring that deals with children to young adults. Even if sometimes, you are not on official terms with government work, yet you have an unethical right to be an undercover agent for your team. Well thanks to Wooyoung for still keeping the trust in you and giving you the known position but without letting anyone else know about it. Your team is well professional to keep this as a secret and you are helping them in a lot of work when you are not assigned. Not like you loved to do it but an inner instinct worked to do the work for good, your stubbornness.

And, so as you joined the club as a waitress, a new mission of finding out the hidden secrets of the club. You introduced yourself as a broke university student, thanks to Hongjoong for the fake id card and your false family details. You scoffed mentally about San -- as your older brother and he is staying abroad. What a loser story!  Who will believe that he is actually an official snipper and if the person in front of you doesn't allow you to work over at the place, then his end is right at the moment by your so-called fake brother.

"so, you are working here for a while?" the man sips his drink, eyes checking out your black corset dress, length ending just above your knee with black and silver straps adorning your shoulders. You are an attractive and special waitress who is often referred to serve the private customers. Do you love the job? Hell no! if they think about doing anything further, you are going to chop the hand off and kill them, then and there.

You look up from the tray where you are placing the different Bourbon bottles and fancy glasses for a group of people sitting at the far corner of the dance floor, "one month to be well aware of your useless antics." your one brow raised and a sly smirk admiring your red lips.

His eyes are fixed on your pillowy lips and licked his own lower lip, meeting your gaze once again, "didn't mean any harm with a light conversation. You know, I can't leave a young beautiful girl like you alone doing her work here. Why don't you enjoy the floor like everyone else?"

You inhaled before taking the tray in your hold and stepping aside from the counter. The man also leaned back from the other side of the counter and following your movements, he could see a little bit of tiredness in your form. Halting in your steps, you whipped your hairs by a swift movement of your head and glanced at his standing figure. A black neat suit with his black undershirt buttons undone from top and stopped in the middle, his bare sweaty chest peeking. He catches your gaze when he whistles and smiles quickly when you glare at him.

"I don't have time like others." You glance towards the people of your age, laughing and dancing crazily like maniacs. "why don't you go and join them?"

"I'm waiting for you." Staring at his face, you see his plump lips, neon lights falling on his pointy noise with his flirty gaze and his messy black hair is really complimenting his look.

You roll your eyes at his boldness when you step forward towards the direction of the table. A presence made aware behind you when you stop and quickly turn around, "now don't follow me-"

"don't go out alone today. You are not safe there." The man is no longer flirting with you but having a serious expression and looking around to scan his surroundings but you are nowhere believing any of his words because you are well aware of your goal to be at this exact place and your position to get yourself safely out of any danger.

Tilting your head to the side, you smirk, "do you know me?"

"no but-"

"Then don't even care about me." you licked your lower lip with the tip of your tongue and stared at him, "don't think of following me again, Mr. pretty face." With that you left him there standing at the middle of the way towards the lounge area at the end. He stares at your figure and brings his glass to the lips, smirking into the glass while sipping the liquid.

Humming to the taste, he closed his eyes, "so sweet and sexy."

.

.

.

Serving the customers is not big of a deal but encountering some psycho and weird assholes are the real problems. Just like right now, the table where you are placing the glasses and pouring the respective drinks into it.

"baby, how much more do we need to offer for a single night?"

You continue to ignore those shitheads until one grabs your hand and pulls you on his lap. You gritted your teeth and attempted to stand up when he brings his arms around your waist, bringing you close to his body, the smell from him is disgusting --- the reek of sweat and alcohol. You want to throw up so bad. "What the hell are you doing?"

"Come on darling. Don't be a joy-kill. We all want fun and you are fighting away the feelings." He brings his face closer to yours when you turn away in disgust. Only if he knew that you can just call your teammates to kill him and bury his rotten body somewhere unknown.

"do you have a death wish, fucker?" you glare at his direction and his friends.

He laughs with his friends loudly, "aww, trying to act feisty. You are too sweet for that. But the name is Jackson for you."

"fucker suits you more." A sudden voice boomed and there he stood --- another pretty face. Well, he looks a bit more manly than the previous man. And the expression on his face clearly shows that he is not having it for good. "I would suggest for you to leave her."

"and, why would I?" that fucker has the audacity to tighten his grip around you and chuckles at him, "are you her knight in armour or like that?"

The standing man smirks, a fresh refreshment drink in hold, when your eyes met, he signals you to look down and then when you understood the point, one hand around you has been loosened and taking the opportunity in advantage, you hit your elbow to his side of the end ribs and quickly stepped away.

"What the hell!"

The smirking man mimics his tone but chuckles, "wow the heavens. Well done, princess." You don't know why but the endearment feels so loved and it really did make you blush but you soon compose yourself to stare at the scene with wide eyes. The man beside you punches the fucker across his face.

"You know you deserve much more than that but I'm not in a mood." His husky voice really does wonder to you. But there's one more thing, he is not afraid of violation and he looks so familiar. Is he related to some well known people who could help him with this?

"you-", before that shithead could stand up, the man threw his liquid at his face.

He scoffed, "you don't learn lessons in one go. No wonder you are here with your useless friends."

"I will just-"

"Jackson, your dad is calling. He won't be happy to know that we got in a fight here. Let's go." One of the friends stood up and signaled others to quickly exit the club and when the said boy was not budging from his position, the other one dragged him from there but still he gave a flying threat, "I will see you around and won't leave you so easily."

"of course, if you stay alive." The man winks and watches the boy being dragged away to the door. When he turns to your side and you are already picking up the two sealed bottles from the table, "what are you doing?"

"picking up these two. Don't want to let it go to waste." You stand in front of him, blinking up at his tall figure, "you shouldn't have to beat him. it might get you in trouble."

"don't worry about that. You were in trouble so I had to but you should have fought for yourself." He tugs a strand of hair behind your ear, "a princess like you attracts bad people a lot." You pull your lower lip between your teeth.

"thanks. I didn't want to get in a fight...an useless one. My manager would have gotten me out of here soon though." You tell him and spot your partner in this night-shift walking towards you, your eyes return to meet his mysterious brown orbs. The music felt deafening the longer you stared at him, his aura is pulling you in towards him even when you know that you have no such time for some...love?

"I should get going..."

When you step aside, he grabs your arm and to which you, surprisedly look at his eyes, "can I get your name?" his flawless skinned face and his black hairs falling over his forehead, adding an attractiveness to his already charming look. His black coat with a white shirt tucked neatly, makes him look like a perfect gentleman and he might be here after office hours to wash off the stress and anxiety.

You can't disclose your name to a stranger but still an inner voice is screaming at you to tell him everything about you. Are you going crazy? Maybe. You part your lips, fighting with your own thoughts when you blurted out, "Ruby." A fake name should work, apparently this is the name you are going by in this club.

"Well, that really suits your red lipstick. You look pretty." He smiles, his eyes shining under the lights and loosening his hold around your arm, but you keep staring at him, as if you have something to say but you escape the place quickly. He chuckles at your running figure and brushes back his hairs, fishing out his phone and pressing a certain name to call and bring it to his ears.

He sits on a chair in front of a bar across from yours, on the other side of the other dance floor,

"Hey, Taeyong...are we still up for the meeting?"

He watches your figure working with the amount of glasses altogether and occasionally glances at the dance floor and at the upper floor private area entrance. He furrows his brows in curiosity and leans back in his chair, the more he is watching you the more interesting you seem. Handing over an order tray to your partner, you slump into a chair beside you and your eyes wander around the venue. What are you watching? Your gaze stops on a particular spot and he follows the direction when he spots someone familiar.

"He is here."

The person on the other side of the call hums, "good. What are you doing right now?"

The man at the club's bar, taking the glass from the counter and swirls the liquid, chuckling into the call, his eyes returning to your direction when your eyes meet. The corner of his lips curls up and he gestures his glass upward to cheer you, sending a quick smile to him, you went back to work.

"I think I like it here. Never knew this place could be more interesting and pretty."

Taeyong chuckles on the other side of the call, "and what's the name of this pretty distraction?"

"Ruby." The man tastes the name on the tip of the tongue and lets it roll for a while as if he is calling you for some reason. His eyes are still in your direction, you can see you are focusing on the people entering the venue and sitting around the chairs near the bars, often meeting your sparkling yet tired eyes.

"That's her name? Oh, I want to see her."

The man shakes his head, sipping the liquid, "that's the color of the red lipstick she is wearing."

"Man...you are so gone for it. I want to see her too. And you know her being there can be a threat too." Taeyong's serious voice made the man nod his head and hum in agreement. "Well, I'll be there soon. Save for me some."

"of course."

It's been such a busy shift tonight but without any important work done. You are keeping your attention on everything, everyone and every corner. The conversations around you are boring --- rather useless. What will you do with their unhappy times in their relationships? Some having down days at the workplace? Some have family issues. You scoff mentally at the thought --- atleast they have a family. I don't even know how that feels.

The phone in your pocket rings and starts vibrating, it's a signal for you to excuse yourself from the washroom and as soon as you are away from the loud area and inside a cubicle, you wait for everyone to leave the restroom area until you lock yourself inside it.

"hello!", saying it in a low voice, you check your surroundings to keep assured that no one is there.

"hey, looking pretty, by the way. So, got any info?"

You sigh and lean against the counter and look at your reflection on the mirror, lining with the golden lights, giving it a classy and expensive look with the white tiled walls and marbled floor. "nothing, Wooyoung. I doubt if the news was true." You are pretty and many have said it to you but you want to feel pretty, to get to know that someone desires to be with you for how you lead your life --- how pathetic and stressful you live.

All those boys and men just want to spend a night because your body and face is pretty. They don't want to know about you --- who you are and what you do.

"smarty pants, If we knew what's right and wrong. Do you think you would be there to find out?" he laughs into the call and you roll your eyes at his antics. It's his usual behavior and after all these years, you are used to his nonsense and teasing.

"I think I'm gonna leave tonight soon. Let's see for one more week and then I am off to a different country."

"but you said there's supposed to be a meeting. What about that?" now he is curious but he can't pressure you to do your work because he knows better, that you always do it perfectly and neatly.

You nod, putting away stray hair from your face, smiling to yourself, "what do I get after this mission?"

"y/n?"

"tell me. will I get to live a life like others? Like the way those around my age wasting their night over the drinks and dancing their hearts out and then their loved ones taking care of them after going back home. What about me, Woo?" your voice in the end is just above a whisper.

He gets what you are feeling, sometimes you get overwhelmed with all this stress and being an undercover means to live different lifestyle with different identity yet being distant from everyone around you but you loved this job but after the day the leader, Hongjoong shouted on you for messing up a mission, you feel yourself low and think of quitting this job but for your teammate's sake, you are stuck in this place.

"you will get money and then you can have fun for a while. I'll tell Hongjoong to give you a break, meanwhile I can manage this job with Yeosang."

"I'll not mess this mission up like the last one. I promise." you glare at your reflection.

"I trust you, y/n."

You shake your head, "Ruby. Call me that."

"okay, agent. Copy that."

.

.

.

"are you leaving for home?" Giselle eyes your handbag and your fingers working to call a cab, nodding your head to her question, you search for an appropriate location to drop you at because you can't reveal your address to anyone. "you have one more customer to serve."

"you can do it for me."

"I wish I could but my friends are already here tonight and Boss has assigned you for the service." She smiles and grabs her beer bottle, which is already drunk one-fourth of it. you eye her, the excitement to meet her friends visible on her face and you envied it at the moment yet you felt happy for her that she has people waiting for after her work. "I have prepared the tray for you, bring it to room no. 0127." She leans closer to your ear, "I heard an important business meeting is going on. No one is allowed unless asked for. Be quick, girl."

Leaving you at the couch behind the counter, she skips towards her friends' table and you roll your eyes before groaning internally and resting your head against the leather headrest, closing your eyes and feeling tired of all this chaos. You are going to kill those people who are running the trafficking ring for making you work so hard. Wait. Is it something related to the business meeting in this room?

Forcing your eyelids to part, you pulled yourself from the comforting posture and stood on your heels which is already your biggest enemy at the moment. Taking the tray in your hold, leaving your bag at a safe place and putting your phone inside the pocket, making your way to the V.I.P. area. The loud music is booming inside the venue and there you silently walk towards the stairs.

The half-spiral stairs leading to the next floor for the VIP section where the security protocol is tighter and without any official worker or any top tier customers, the entry is impossible.

Scanning your id at the entrance, the security permitted your entry and as soon as you stepped inside the heavy wooden and metal door, a different soothing atmosphere and pleasant smell surrounded you, the closed doors restricting the loud chaotic atmosphere behind it. it's peaceful here but there's this itching danger around you.

The room plate in front of you is the one your last service spot and you ring the bell quickly to get over with this night. It's weird to take so long to open a door but you wait, tapping your feet against the floor and getting impatient with every passing second. Your eyes lock with a man walking towards you in the long hallway but stop at the door beside the one you were at, he eyes your whole figure and smirks at the view, but when your eyes land on a suitcase, your curious eyes scan his whole formal business look.

He enters his door when the door in front of you opens.

"you?" the young man in front of you raises an eyebrow and tilts his head, eyeing your tray and then your face. "free drinks?"

"who is there, Hyuck?"

He pokes the inner cheek with his tongue and chuckles sassily, "a pretty waitress with free drinks." he glances inside the room and then back at you, "your treat?"

"well to break your bubble, I'm not your treat giver. You have paid for this and I'm just here to give it to you. So, if you please excuse me then I'm going to pour it to you or leave it on your table. Whatever you wish!" you are on the edge of losing your mind for him to keep you standing there. A fake smile plastered on your face when he moved aside to welcome you inside the room and you heard a commotion from the door beside. Ignoring it but still, you want to know it. is it about some business you are doubting?

Entering the room, without looking at anyone or to your surroundings, you walk straight towards the table when you hear a laugh from the corner, "never expected to meet you again...also here." The man named Hyuck closes the door and returns to the couch, beside a man around his age.

Hearing the same seductive voice, you place the tray on the table and turn towards the direction, when your eyes meet, his sultry smiling face is already staring at your way, when you smirk and folds your hands below your chest, "oh, Mr. Pretty Face." Feeling a lot of eyes on you, still you keep your focus on the smiling face.

"My pretty waitress." He stood up from the corner of the room and walked towards you, "so what's all these drinks for? Your invitation to have fun together."

"so, have you met her too?" wait. This voice, quickly turning your neck, you met those eyes again, "we meet again, Ruby."

Your surprise did get noticed by both of them and when they chuckle, a third voice speaks up, "is this the pretty distraction you were saying earlier?" you notice an attractive male manspreading on the single cushioned leather chair, "hello, thanks for the drinks." He gestures to the glass in a cheer motion. He is an epitome of perfection for his facial features.

"these are the drinks you all asked for. If you need something else, then do tell me. my shift is soon over." You said calmly and took a quick note of the men inside the luxury suite. Six in total and you have no names --- except the pretty face and Hyuck, if that's the actual name. they seem like they are having a meeting but you need to know more. The important business is going to happen today but why are you without any clue and solutions? "these are not my treats. Sorry to disappoint you."

"so, are you free after this shift?" the man who saved you from those shitheads asks and waits for your reply. His gaze is flickering between your lips and eyes.

The man who called you 'pretty distraction' raised a brow at you, "then the drinks?"

"this is for Room No. 0128." Hyuck raised a note from the tray, he quickly turns towards him, "isn't he there?" he takes the tray from the table and hand it over to you, the quick action makes you lose the balance of it but quickly handles the bottles properly and glare at him, "take this there quickly and tell me how many of them are there and," he pulls out his phone to show you a picture, the man you met at the door, "if this person is there then let us know about it."

So, the business is interesting.

"and why would I?"

"it's for your own good." Your savior speaks up, "how much do you need?"

"I don't work on money. A reason is what I need and that's enough for me to do everything." You smile back at them.

A fifth man who was all these times busy on his phone speaks up, "the reason is to save lots of lives. Young girls and innocent women. So, think carefully about not helping us. You will regret it later." He said coldly.

Who are they?

"who are you all?" now you are aware of the surroundings, an alert siren ringing inside your head. The news is true and this would be the best opportunity to catch the culprits but the heck these people are. "I'm not doing anything."

"fifty lakhs."

Your tongue tip touches the roof of the mouth, "you are bribing me?" shaking your head in disappointment, you chuckle softly, "you don't even know me." meeting their eyes, you curl your hair, "I might hand you over to the police or maybe if you are related to some illegal shits then fate is cruel for you."

A sudden cold laugh breaks your strong atmosphere. You turn around to face the man, he was standing by the side of the terrace door and drinking his wine, staring at you with his piercing eyes, you have noticed him earlier at the bar. He was watching you like a creep and to say more, you did feel scared of him. "y/n, don't make this hard. You are also searching for the culprits here today...like us."

What? How does he know your name? your eyes go wide and gulping down the fear, you feel yourself trapped in a confined place. This man knows you and maybe others as well. Slowly, looking around, your eyes meet the others, noticing their surprise and smirking expression. They know you? You are quiet and this gave the man who uttered your name the confidence to walk over to you. Just two feet away from you, he bends down and meets your wide eyes, "don't deny the fact of being undercover here. Helping us will only benefit you and we can catch them easily. We can approach them through you."

"who are you?" you ask quietly. This is not you. Speak up. You can't disclose your identity and submit yourself to him, to them like this. They can be a possible threat to you and you should let Wooyoung know about this, when you step back, he places his glass on your tray, and you ask him again, "why should I trust you?"

"I can't hurt you, y/n. I won't do anything. I promise." He stands straight, "your safety is in my hands. Jeno would never cause you any harm, not even a single scratch. Trust me."

Jeno...this name sounds foreign yet familiar to you. Once it was so endearing to you. You had everything in your mind related to this name. you clutched the tray tightly. He can't be here. this man is from a mafia gang and you are a government official undercover. How can you both be together? You have never seen his face but the only member-name from the gang was his that you got in that mission, which you failed miserably. His leader is way smarter than you and that irritates you so much. Aren't they with the trafficking ring, then why are they helping you? Wanting your help? Whatever.

You have seen his eyes that night, the smirk behind that mask and the leader beside him had that proud look under the cap shadowing his face.

"we are not monsters, y/n." the attractive man who has a leader aura stands up from the sofa, trudging towards you slowly, "we once used to work for the government like you but you know, there's nothing beneficiary or worthy to risk your life. In the end, you are going to get the blame for everything." He stands close to you, "like you got the blame for failing the last mission. Even when you did your best. Even when they knew you could have died in our hands to catch us but they only cared for the outcome, not your life. You are just like us, the past us. And, we can't see you getting down this path."

Care? They are showing you care. Shrugging the feeling, you take deep breaths, nodding suddenly. The two men near you watching you keenly when a voice catches your attention, the one who was busy on phone earlier, falling lights when he comes near shows a younger face with round eyes, prominent cheekbones, chuckling at you, "don't worry. We are not going to make you a part of the mafia. You should be pure and innocent like you are."

"I am not innocent. I have seen people die in front of me. I have seen a lot more than I should." You mumble quietly. "but what will I get after I help you?"

"what do you want? Money?" Hyuck asks you.

You shake your head but before you could speak more, the pretty face speaks up, "your safety. We will ensure your safety forever. You are under our protection."

"I don't need to be protected. It's just I don't want those innocent people to lose their families. I want to save them and so help me with that." You said and turned on your heels towards the table and placed the tray on that, you fished out your phone, dialed the top number and waited for the voice to be on speaker.

"hey, did you-"

"Woo, you are on the speaker." Casting a glance towards the six men around the room, you speak into the call, "I got some...people here, who are going to help us in this and I hope getting this done by tonight. Bring all the forces here. We are going to catch them."

His worried voice echoes in the silent room, "are you okay, y/n? who are these people? Is it okay to trust them? Are you sure?"

Licking your lips, you sigh, "yes. Trust me. come here fast."

"okay. Be safe."

Cutting the call, you stare at them, the man who was a phone addict comes in front, "are you ready?"

"always."

He hands you an earpiece, it's designed in a way which looks like an earring in an unique style, your curious eyes staring at it when he takes it and places it over your ear, tugging your hairs properly, "this is connected to our phones. When you are speaking into it, we can hear all of your conversation. It can even record your whispers so whatever we will be asking, you have to tell us quickly. Can you do this?"

You nod, placing your fingers over it, "yes." You heard your voice from one of the devices, it belongs to your savior. He smiles and nods.

The man in front of you holds your shoulder, meeting his sharp gaze, you see his eye-smile, "you will be safe. Trust me."

"and what will you say when you are in danger?" The man with round eyes and younger features asks you when you glance at him and at Jeno then towards your savior. You mutter softly, "Ruby."

Taking the tray in your hold and turning towards the door, Hyuck is already waiting for you with the door open for you to exit, "let's start, little agent." He eyes Jeno's half-filled glass on your tray and smirks, "keep this glass. You know when to use this."

Little agent. Why is your heart fluttering? This is not you, y/n and you are still trusting a mafia gang. A ruthless mafia gang who is claiming themselves as the people who want to help innocent ones from trafficking. You are going to be under their protection and they swore your safety.

.

.

.

You whisper, "hey..." standing in front of the door and waiting for them to open. You hear two voices, confirming they can hear you properly and they have access to the C.C.T.V. in front. You glance at the two cameras facing towards the area where you are standing.

A young man swings open the door, a gush of smoke hits your senses when he speaks up, "oh, dear lady. Come inside." Taking steps inside the door, your heart thumping against your chest, "we ordered the drinks a while ago. It took so much time for you to bring it. busy?"

You hear a scoff from your earpiece. You force a smile while placing the tray on a counter at the side of the room, preparing their drinks, "there was an urgent customer call. Sorry for the late service."

Another voice speaks up and you know him, Mr. Kim Yeonghun. The main suspect of this ring and the worst man to ever exist, "oh no worries, lady. You can make it up to us in some ways." You saw him entering the club, he was with a young girl. Where is she? Also, Hyuck showed you his picture.

Feeling a hand on your hip, your breath hitches, the touch is inappropriate and you are fighting the urge to roll out his hands but you are out-numbered and to catch them, you need to keep calm. Turning around, you scan the room, four people in total and might be their securities and bodyguards around the club. You whispered, "four. He is here."

"okay! Now make him confess. Do something for that and three of us are going to spread around the venue to search for the possible places to find the rooms where they kept the captives." This voice is of the attractive man. Why didn't you get their names already? You can only call Jeno or Hyuck if you need help but what if he is not available. Anyways.

"you should not touch someone without her consent." You speak politely even when you want to glare at these old hags. "I can report you all to others."

The four of them laugh loudly, you felt a little humiliated at the scene but you hear a soft seductive voice in your ear, "be calm, y/n. we will get them afterwards." You hum and face the old men. The man with whom you made eye contact earlier at the door with the suitcase, smirks at you.

"you are funny, little lady." He stands up, stepping closer to you, "do you think you have powers over us? You can't even get out of this room alive to say anything to anyone. Even if you manage to escape, no one is going to believe you and no one will be there to help you to get us caught."

Mr. Kim's best friend Mr. Park, who touched you a moment ago speaks up, "you know we can do anything with you here. No one would ever get a hint of it." his eyes scan your whole form, "and judging the way perfect you are. We are going to get a good amount out of you." He chuckles in the end.

Your fists tighten by your side, gritting your teeth, you glare at him, "what are you going to do?"

He tilts his head, "to have fun with you and then sell you."

"no. you can't do this." Gulping down the fear, you continued, "you won't do this. Government is already in the search of the trafficking leaders for the last two years and they will get to know about this soon. You all are going down."

The one who opened the door for you speaks up, "so? You are going to inform them about us? Think you can do this? Aw...you are in our territory with no escape, young lady."

Someone holds your arms and brings them to your back, blocking your way to fight, the man in front grabs your chin, glaring at you, "we will let you know who we are and then your fate is going to be the same as those useless money worthy whores." The stinging pain in your arm and chin making you hiss. Mentally counting to three, you kick the man in front of you with your knee and with a bump with your head, you hurt the man holding you to escape his grip. When you see Mr. Kim approaching you, you take Jeno's glass and throw it towards his face, the liquid is all over him and the glass hit his nose. You whisper, "Ruby." Hearing no reply from the other side, your heart clenches at the thought that they might be in danger or.... They lied to you.

"you bitch." Your trance breaks when Mr. Kim trudges towards you, you need to get towards the door and Wooyoung should be here by now with his team. Someone holds your arm, yanking you towards him, "you think you can escape? Never." They are strong and can fight well, of course they can, they are all well trained even when they are ten years older than you. Old. But strong.  You twist his hand, kicking him in the balls and making him kneel down when you push the other man who is trying to grab your free hand, you glance towards the door.

You hear the banging on the door but before you could react, you feel a stinging pain, piercing the skin of the neck. Turning your head abruptly, you meet a smirking face but can't figure out the person, eyes blurring and feeling dizzy. Still, you know you are stronger than this. Elbowing the person and kicking him in the stomach, you fought for yourselves. The man beside you tries to grab you when you hit his head and pushes him against the wall, "your time is over, Mister."

You blink hardly because the dizziness is becoming stronger and your whole system is getting weak with every passing second. Even when you raise your hand, you can't hit the man in front, two people grab your arms and pull you back, dragging you away and suddenly, your back hits the soft material. You are pinned on top of the bed, fighting the pain in the neck. You try to make your vision clear when you notice Mr. Kim hovering on top of you, smirking. Tearing the net material of your dress, you then realize what is going to happen. Working your legs to kick him but a fourth person holds your ankle, preventing you from fighting anymore. You shout and wiggle under their grips.

"huh! Picking a fight with us? All alone. Such a foul move." He laughs from top of you, his face near yours, "a little girl going against us. What a shame! You have the same fate as them."

Tears falling from your eyes but before he could come any closer, you hear a faint thud sound. Vision becoming dark and your whole body giving up. The weight over your body pulls off, feeling relieved but even if you want to watch the scene and understand the situation, you can't.

"y/n!" you hear your name being called. Touch on your face, your hands are not held tightly but someone caressing it softly. There's a lot of voices around you but you can't make it out properly. You are drifting off to unconsciousness. A palm over your cheek, your eyes meeting a hazy outline of a face. "Can you hear me?" someone holding you close to their body and caressing your back, your head resting against the chest.

"Ruby..." you whisper.

Someone beside you said, "yes yes. You are safe. You did it." that's the last thing you heard before your senses gave up to darkness.

.

.

.

"Wooyoung...you should go back." Taeyong's voice bloomed inside the silent room. In a dimly lit, spacious apartment, you are slowly breathing and lying unconscious on a plush, oversized couch. The air is filled with a calming scent, like lavender, and the low hum of gentle conversation.

The young boy tears his eyes away from your figure towards the leader of the gang, who is standing beside the chair, leaning against it and often glancing at you.

"but she?"

Jeno, who is sitting near your head, checks your temperature, placing his fingers on your forehead, "we promised her to make sure of her safety."

"and why are you helping her?" Wooyoung stares at them after asking the question. He notices how the males exchange looks among them when the leader again speaks up.

Sighing, he brushes back his hairs, "we care for her."

"why?"

"because she is just like us. Walking the same path." This time it's Mark who said, placing the tray with medicine and water on the table, beside the couch. He glances at your figure.

Wooyoung nods slowly, standing up and caressing your head, the others eyes following his affection towards you. He really cares for you and they know how close you both are --- they know a lot about you. Well, some of them. But others are always eager to know about the infamous undercover agent. And, seeing you close up at the club for the first time is like a miracle...a fantasy comes true to them.

"take care of her. I hope I can trust you all." Wooyoung eyes them, Mark steps forward but the younger one gestures at him with a raised hand, "don't worry. I'm not going to report you all. Well, even if I do then also, you all are going to escape the government smoothly so there's no point."

He bid them goodbye and you are under the roof with six unknown familiar males whose eyes are staring at your sleeping figure.

"we should have killed him." Haechan glares at Taeyong when the latter nods and just blankly observes the younger's anger. "handing him over to them is a useless move."

"it will give her the credit that she made the mission possible to solve. Remember it." Jaehyun reminds him of the actual motive for leaving those shitheads alive, even when he himself wanted to kill them for touching you, for even looking at you inappropriately.

"This sedative is a stronger one. Even if she regains consciousness, it's difficult for her to react normally." Mark said and shakes his head, thinking of possibilities after you wake up.

Jaemin slumps down on the chair, "she should wake up by now, the antidote must work by this time."

As the night slowly slips into the early hours of morning, you find yourself stirring from a deep, disorienting sleep. The last thing you remember is the flashing lights of the club and the music pounding in your ears. Then, facing some men and fighting with them and the blur images of them pinning you down. Now, everything is quiet, almost eerily so, except for the soft murmur of voices and the occasional clinking of glassware.

Your eyelids feel heavy as you try to open them, and a dull ache throbs in your head. Blinking a few times, your vision starts to clear, and you notice you're lying on an enormous, incredibly soft bed in what seems to be a spacious and tastefully decorated-bedroom. The lighting is low, casting a warm, golden glow across the room, which feels strangely comforting.

Your head feels heavy, and your vision is slightly blurred, but you can make out the silhouettes of six figures moving around you, each one focused on making sure you're okay.

The closest to you is a man with dark hair and a calm, composed expression. He's seated beside you on the bed, gently pressing a cool, damp cloth to your forehead. His touch is careful, almost tender, and his eyes meet yours as he notices you're waking up.

The others also come closer.

"Hey," he says softly, a gentle smile forming on his lips. "You're awake. How are you feeling?" he puts away the cloth and holds you to help to get up. your saviour.

His voice is low and soothing, and it takes you a moment to process the question. Your mouth feels dry, and you struggle to find the words, but you manage to nod slightly. The boy's smile deepens, and he continues to stroke your hair and massage the scalp, clearly relieved that you're conscious.

"you..."

He leans forward, breathing near your neck, he whispers into your ear, "it's Jaehyun. Call me that."

You blink at him, "where am I?"

On the floor next to the bed, another boy, with softer features and an almost angelic appearance, is sitting. That attractive guy. He holds your hand. His grip is light, yet reassuring, like he's trying to convey that everything is okay without overwhelming you. He looks up at you with concern, his eyes searching your face for any signs of distress.

"You're safe now," he murmurs, his voice barely above a whisper. "We're here for you."

You keep staring at him and he gets your curious question.

"Taeyong, the leader of the gang."

Across the room, a boy with sharp features and a serious expression is standing by a window, speaking quietly into his phone. His tone is firm but filled with care, and as you listen, you realize he's talking to Wooyoung, who must be worried sick.

"She's with us now, and we're taking good care of her," the  boy says, glancing in your direction to make sure you're okay. "You don't need to worry. Go home and rest. We'll keep her safe."

After a brief pause, during which he listens to the other end of the call, he nods, his expression softening slightly. "I promise, we've got everything under control. We'll call you if anything changes, but for now, just trust us."

He ends the call with a quiet sigh, slipping the phone into his pocket as he walks back over to where you're lying. He kneels down beside you, his gaze meeting yours with a mixture of concern and determination. "Wooyoung was here. He went back to the team base."

"the men..."

Jeno smiles, "they are caught. You did well, little agent."

"you all didn't respond to me."

"sorry...but it was all your lover boy's fault. His teammates prevented us from contacting you further."

"Hyuck, shut up." the man sits near your feet, "I am Mark. Sorry about him. actually, we heard your call but your teammates were not trusting us and accusing us of everything. I'm sorry we used you to confront them but thanks a lot, finally we are able to catch them."

Hyuck presses his lips into a thin line, "sorry. We were late even when we promised you."

"No. it's okay." You mutter softly. "I thought you all left me in my misery."

"never, y/n. we won't do this ever." The pretty face smiles at you, "this pretty face has a name and that's Jaemin." you smile at him.

It's too much. And, moreover you are with a mafia gang and you don't know how and why you are here. Even Wooyoung left you here with them. He trusts them like you trusted them and stepped into the danger.

Meanwhile, Taeyong and Jaemin are busy in the open kitchen area. One of them is boiling water, his movements quick and efficient as he prepares a pot of herbal tea. The other is rummaging through the cabinets, looking for something light and easy for you to eat once you're feeling up to it. They exchange a few words in hushed tones, their focus entirely on making sure you're comfortable.

"take this medicine, it should help you relax", Mark says as he pours the water into a glass. "And we should get some crackers ready for later." You take it and gulp it down. "before you ask more, take it slow."

Hyuck nods in agreement, "well you can me Haechan even Hyuck is also fine with me.", pulling out a small plate and arranging a few simple snacks on it. Their actions are precise, almost instinctual, as if taking care of someone in need comes naturally to them. Jeno comes near with a pair of trousers and t-shirt, "get change into this. You must be uncomfortable with that."

By the door, the last two boys are engaged in a quiet conversation, their voices low but their expressions serious. They're discussing how to ensure the apartment is secure, checking the locks and making sure no one will disturb the peace they've created in this safe haven.

After changing in the washroom, you get to know about them more. This apartment is not their permanent residence. This is one of their spare places and this is the place they run to for your emergency and taking you to their mansion would overwhelm you so keeping you somewhere comfortable and cozy is better.

"We should keep an eye on things, just in case," Taeyong says, glancing back at you with a protective gaze. "We don't want anyone showing up uninvited."

Jaehyun nods in agreement, his expression determined. "Agreed. We'll take turns keeping watch. She needs to rest without any more interruptions."

As you start to feel more alert, Jeno notices the change in your breathing and the slight movement of your fingers. He leans in a bit closer, his voice gentle as he asks, "Do you need anything? Water? Tea?"

Jaemin holding your hand gives it a light squeeze, his eyes never leaving your face. "It's okay if you don't feel like talking yet," he says softly. "Just know we're here, and we won't leave your side."

Their kindness is overwhelming, and despite the lingering fear and confusion, a sense of safety begins to wash over you. You're surrounded by warmth, not just from the blankets draped over you or the soft lighting in the room, but from the genuine care these six men are showing you.

As the moments pass, you start to relax, the tension in your muscles easing as you let yourself be cared for. The night may have taken a terrifying turn, but now, in this room filled with quiet voices and gentle touches, you know that you're in good hands. These men, with their unwavering concern and protective presence, have made sure of that.

It's been a week, the incident at the club happened. Well, atleast the case is solved. Yeah, you should have been more careful because there were four of them and yet you chose to fight with them all alone. Such overconfidence!

You close your laptop, lying on your stomach on the couch and decide to search for a particular number.

"Hello!"

"Y/n, how are you? Have you eaten? Decided the place?" As usual he is bombarding you with questions. You chuckle into the call before humming.

"Yeah, I had my lunch a while ago and I'm completely fine. Sometimes I do feel weak but it's okay I'm taking the medicines."

"So? Going where?"

You sigh, "I don't know."

There's a moment of silence before his voice reaches your ear again, "have you spoken to them?"

Actually, you didn't. After coming back to your apartment, you have just texted a simple message — I'm okay. That's it and nothing more. But you notice your phone has their contact numbers saved in it and there's few messages but you never read them.

"No."

"They care for you a lot, y/n. I don't know why but......I have seen the anger and frustration in their eyes when you were locked in the room and they were impatient to get in there." He pauses to take a breath, "I think you should talk with them."

Care for you. Did you hear correctly? There must be a reason behind this. Everyone does something for a reason.

"Do you think I should trust them?" You ask it quickly, as if you really want to know the answer to this. You do.

"Yes." He says quietly and adds, "once we were all in the same department. I know them, never worked together but heard the praises back then so I know there must be a reason they chose this illegal path."

"They don't trust the government and its way of working. Their hatred is stronger than you can imagine." You remember the distaste Jaemin and Jeno had when telling you the reason behind them helping you, even Haechan was scoffing at every mention of their past association with the government.

"Can be. Anyways, you should trust them and I'm here if you need anything. Also, Joong and Hwa said you are free now because we don't have any mission where we require you but if you are okay with the front-field missions-"

"No. I'm not going to be there. You know I don't want to mess up." You glare at the leather in front.

He sighs, "okay. You didn't do any harm. It was all of us who were at fault, but it's you who got the blame."

"Don't remind me."

"Sorry. Anyways, enjoy the free days before the department dumping us does another shit job."

You mutter a low, "whatever."

.

.

.

"Well, we meet again."

Looking up at the voice, you see the same smiling face from that night, "Jaemin."

Inviting himself to sit beside you on the bench, he stares at you, "waiting for someone? Lover?"

You roll your eyes, "can't I be here for myself? It's comfortable here."

"Of course. This place is more comfortable because you are here." And again. "You should have called me, I could have entertained you as a friend."

Staring at your book in your hold, you reply, "Wooyoung is my only friend."

"I thought he was your boyfriend."

You scoff at the thought, " he would better date San rather than me. His best friend Yeosang literally claims me as the worst girlfriend ever."

"He is mentally unstable. Who would call you the worst-"

"Here, take the ice-cream before it melts down."  You follow the ice-cream, the hand and that belongs to Haechan. When your eyes meet, he gestures with his chin to take it. Uncontrollably, your hand raises up, grabbing the cone and gently saying thanks. "Oh no need to be so polite and all. I like your strong aura."

Honestly, he was impressed with your confidence back in the club.

You love ice-cream and accepting the little token of......love...no wait – care, is fine.

He sits on your other side, taking the book from you and reading a few lines, ignoring your protest against snatching your book without permission.

"You read these kinds of books in broad afternoon?" His smirking face looks at you when you glare at him and try to take away the book but he holds it far, gesturing you towards the ice-cream, "eat that. I'm not taking your book with me."

Jaemin is laughing lightly on your other side, when you feel a cold liquid drop on the skin of the palm, you lick the cream, eyes wide and a small smile adorning your lips.

It's tasty. The best one. You wanted to say it but you didn't want to show them your -- this side. They have already seen your weak side because of the sedative.

"You don't have to care what I read or not." Licking your lips, you continue, "it's my personal choice."

Jaemin tugs your hair behind your hairs and pulls them all together in the back, holding them in a ponytail before taking your crunchie from your side and tying it properly, "your hairs will get sticky if cream gets on them. Also, if you want to share your stories with someone. Consider us always available."

He is so nice.

"Why would I?"

"Sharing is a thing, darling." Haechan says it softly near your ear, his breathing raising goosebumps on your neck. The affectionate and the endearment is evidently having an effect on you.

"I don't like sharing things with strangers."

"Well, getting to know us is a first step, bunny. Also, you accepted an ice-cream from a stranger." Jaemin says and chuckles, "oh don't get me wrong. You can have it. I'm just teasing you. But we can be friends, you know."

Friends with them...

"I'll think about it."

"6 or 7?" Haechan asks you suddenly. You furrow your brows in confusion and stare at him. He rolls his eyes and repeats himself, "choose a perfect timing. Evening."

"7...."

"Get ready and one of us will pick you up at exactly 7, tomorrow."

"Why?"

"It's my birthday." Jaemin cheers. Haechan rolling his eyes on your other side, closing the book and placing it beside you. "Dress pretty."

"how are you sure I'm going?"

"Well, you haven't deny yet." Haechan sassily says and stands up. Your eyes following them, tongue and mouth busy tasting the delicious cream. "Anyways, hope to see you tomorrow."

Jaemin also smiled and stood up beside him. You stare up at them when they wait for your reply. But you don't want to utter a word. You don't know what to say...you are in confusion. A part of you is telling you to stay away from them and the other part is trusting them blindly and following their every move. You just nod slightly but clearly they are eager to hear something from you. Jaemin gives you a tight smile and Haechan bites his lower lip, head tilted to the side.

"bye", he scans your figure, smirking at you, "you look pretty in pastel colors."

Jaemin hits his head and chuckles, turning his gaze back to you, "even though, it's my birthday but you should be the prettiest."

You just blink in return.

As soon as they turn around, you throw away the tissue after wiping your hands and mouth after finishing the ice-cream.

"wait!"

Their steps halt, turning around, there you stood close to them, extending your hand, "give me a phone." Jaemin blinks in confusion but Haechan is quick to give in to your demand.

They watch you type something in the device and hand back him the phone, "I'm trusting you with my location. Don't be late. I have little patience sometimes." Without speaking anything more, you turn around, collecting your things from the bench and putting them inside your side bag and step away, muttering a light, "bye." Walking farther from them. Their eyes follow your form, distancing from them.

"why didn't you say Wooyoung already told you her address?" Jaemin asks the boy beside him, the other one chuckles, "well, you could have too. But it's better she showed a sign of trusting us."

"well, let's go."

.

.

.

Contemplating your decision – whether to go or not even when you are standing in front of the mirror in a pastel pink colour knee length dress. Your phone lit up when a message pops, announcing the arrival of him.

Taeyong came to pick you up. the leader of the uprising mafia gang is picking up a government undercover spy for a birthday party. Such an ironic moment! Whatever. Picking up your vanity bag, your heels clicking on the marbles when you reach the front door of your apartment. There he stood in all black leather, leaning against his car. He looks exquisite.

Approaching him, he raises his head, smiling at you, "what a beautiful sight to look at, my lady!" opening the door for you to enter, you quickly get in. skipping towards the other side of the car, he gets into the driver seat and brushes his hair in the rear-view mirror, "how do you manage to look so cute being a spy?"

"stop with your flirting." You roll your eyes and stare at his side-profile. His pointy nose, big eyes, sharp jawline and thick brows with the black hairs falling over his forehead. A perfect leader aura. Honestly, you didn't have any idea that this gang would be so handsome and attractive. Heck, you didn't even know you would be riding a car with the leader to a birthday party. Why did you agree?

"I can't stop myself from falling for you, pretty lady or should I say pretty distraction?" all of them have one thing in common. The smooth talking with sultry in their tones.

You need a change in your life.

"Mr. leader, focus on the road ahead. Need to appear in one piece at the party." You smirk at him and he laughs, speeding the car.

"whatever you say, pretty."

Trusting them isn't going to be bad.

.

.

.

Meanwhile five men with their drinks in hold, spread across the big living room of the mansion. Conversing on the same topic. You.

"You sure, she is coming?" Mark places the glass on the glass counter and folds his hand. Jaemin nods enthusiastically, "I am."

Jeno scoffs, "You seem too excited for her being here rather than celebrating your birthday."

"well of course, she is the main reason. This shitty birthday comes every year. And, you all bring those strawberry cakes. I swear if you do the same this time." He glares at Haechan, who raises his hands in defense.

"hey, don't look at me like that. I didn't do it alone even though the plan is mine." He smirks and raises a brow at him, completely enjoying riling up the birthday boy like this.

"when will they arrive?" Jeno asks the man beside him, Jaehyun sips his drink before replying, "Taeyong is at the signal. Will be here within ten minutes."

"why so eager to see her?" Haechan asks cockily.

Mark rolls his eyes at the boy, "as if you are not. Shut up for a moment, seriously."

It took thirty minutes to arrive at their mansion, not going to lie, you have been to such places for only missions but never as a casual individual. Well, your instincts work as your profession, you observe the surroundings, how a butler approaches the car when he parks sideways. You scan the new male and every lit-up place where the golden rays of light illuminate the mansion beautifully.

"welcome to the venue, pretty."

He gestures for you to step forward when the butler opens the door for both of you.

"can you call me by my name? it's y/n." you hiss at him.

He raises his eyebrows in surprise, "well, now I got your name. you haven't introduced yourself to me then how can I even know your name."

Stepping into the hallway leading to the living room, you glance at him, "you all already know me. so, stop pretending."

A sudden hug makes you look forward to when you were busy looking at the man walking beside you.

"Finally, you are here." It's Jaemin, who is smiling widely at your form in his white hoodie. A little smile appears on your face for the affection. You have never felt so loved by anyone. Well, your teammates are also nice with you but they are more in professional terms with you, except Wooyoung. You take out a small box from your bag and extend your hand towards him, "Happy Birthday, Jaemin."

"woah, there was no need for this. You are the best gift to me here today." His flirty ass comment got some scoffs and roll of eyes from others except the one who comes closer to both of you.

"what's in the box?" Haechan tries to take it from Jaemin who glares back, "that's for me."

"always a nosy one." Your sudden comment got other's attention and the silence is screaming inside your mind and at you. Why did you say it out loud? What are they thinking about you? Oh gosh. "I'm sorry."

They burst into loud laughter when Haechan glares at them but quickly snickers looking at your surprised expression. Jaemin brings you to the center of the room, holding your hand and guiding you to the table. the others also gather closer to you. The last time you have seen all of them together was when you bid goodbye the next day after that night.

It's been over a month that you are seeing them again. Never thought to be in front of them again but here you are, exchanging small greets and smiles and hearing their concerning voices for you.

After cutting the cake, well you get to know this time it's chocolate cake because you love this flavor otherwise, they would have bought a strawberry one, just to tease him. he didn't give any bites to others, asking them to take it on their own. You look around the place and see them all in either all leathers or all denims. They look more handsome than the last day and not to deny, your eyes can't leave their attractive forms. You loved to click photos with them even when you were surprised they have social media accounts being mafia members.

"say ah!" Jaemin holds a piece of cake in front of your face, urging you to open your mouth. You shake your head and try to take it from him when he smiles, "it's my day so let me do this. It's my wish to feed you this cake. Please."

Hesitating to give in to his request, you glance at others and they are already looking towards you, "Jaemin..."

"please."

You take the bite quickly, without delay and make it more embarrassing. He steps back towards the couch and you stand near the table, awkwardly thinking what you are actually doing here. With some strangers you met at the club and then helped each other to solve the trafficking situation and then saved you from the incident and now inviting you to the birthday party.

"can I also give you a bite of this cake?" you look towards the man standing beside you. Mark smiles at you dearly, sweetly like the birthday boy. You furrow your brows in confusion when he chuckles and replies to your curiosity, "last week. It was my birthday but for important work, we couldn't celebrate it. so, as you, our special guest is here. Let me celebrate mine too."

His young facial features with prominent cheekbones and round eyes with the soft tone with such a loving tone is luring you with a smile to appear on your face. Unknowingly, you nod and part your lips, having the small bite of the piece of cake he is holding.

"belated happy birthday, Mark."

He laughs, "Thank you."

"thanks for this special gift, y/n." Jaemin's voice makes you both look towards him. he is holding the watch you bought in the morning. After deciding on a whole lot of things, you end up opting for a wrist watch. Hoping, that would be the most convenient gift.

You smile, "I couldn't come up with a better thing. That's the only option I could think of."

"hey! It's my favorite watch from now on." He reassures your anxious self.

You look towards Mark, "I'll buy you something later."

He blinks at you, making an eye-contact when he suddenly bends forward, his lips near your neck, chuckling into the ear, "well, be my friend. That's the best gift for me."

Your breath hitches but you cough a little, clearing your throat and looking around.

.

.

.

"so how come you all know my name?" glancing at Taeyong when you notice his smirk and looking away towards Jeno beside you, "like you even followed me there at the club. So, any mission? To get me."

"oh, it's not like that." Jeno chuckles, "we were sure that the government must have sent an undercover spy but didn't expect it to be you. We were lucky for the second time to encounter you on a mission."

"you all seem too excited to have me there." You sip your drink, eyeing him and then the man beside him, Jaehyun, "thanks for standing up for me that night."

"no worries. Stay away from those shitheads." Jaehyun shows his dimple smile in the end.

You shake your head and sigh, "it's just a part of my job. I have to work normal in my every undercover profession. Well, about knowing me..." you trail off in the end when Jeno speaks up this time.

"your last mission failed because of us. Right?" he stares at you.

You gulp, nodding slightly, remembering the shouts and blame you received after returning from the place to the office. Hongjoong was totally displeased with you and Seonghwa's betrayed eyes are still burning on your skin.

"if we didn't divert your plan then you wouldn't be sitting here with us today." Mark leans back into the couch.

You smirk, "why? You all would've got caught?"

"no. you could've died."

Your smirk falters. A shocked and lost expression replaces your bright features. Why? The possibility of your death and they helped you to escape the danger is a new aspect of the mission you discovered.

Jaehyun notices the horror on your face, "hey..." he kneels down in front of you, holding your hands and tapping them softly with a faint smile on his lips, "don't worry. You are a smart agent. And we will always protect you from the dangers. We got your back."

You stare at his face, their gestures are so soft, comfortable and welcoming. And, the more you are interacting with them, the more you are leaning towards them. They give you a feeling of...care in the form of protection.

"why are you helping me?"

"y/n..." Jaemin kneels beside Jaehyun, smiling at you, "because we want to. You are a special person to us."

"huh?"

"remember? the seniors under whom you worked for a project and you even made their brothers your friends. it was such a fun night."

Wait. It's them? And, it was such a short interaction. You were stuck late at the library, finishing up a group project when one of your teammates feel sick and the other one skipped and went on a trip. And to get the point, you were alone doing the work. When, four batchmates approaches you for help. Now you realize --- it was Mark, Jeno, Jaemin and Haechan. Their elder brothers --- Taeyong and Jaehyun were your seniors and that night, it was six of them working hard with you to finish a one month project in one night. After that, you met them at the playground the next week to thank them. That's it. no more interaction, just some passing by them and attending same classes. But they still remember you.

"you all remember me?", licking your lips, you continue, "I thought you didn't care. I mean, it's okay. We never interacted much to still remember me after years."

Taeyong nods his head slowly, "well, we still remember the little crush you had back then on Jeno. We admire your intelligence." Snickering, he flicks your nose, "it was so cute though."

"and who knew that the meritorious, perfect, polite and soft natured girl would be an undercover agent in future. Well, you were a computer science student and wanted to be a developer then how come you joined the Intelligence Team of the government? You didn't attend any classes with us regarding that." Haechan asks in a curious way.

You nod, heaving a sigh, allowing your mind to skip over all the memories, "it's a long story. Just in short, the situation made me change the decision. I was in need of money and the orphanage where I grew up is funded by Yunho's parents so he offered me this position for being an intelligent student so that's how I joined as a hacker in the team but later I excel the skill of being an agent."

"wow. You are smarter than I can imagine." Mark compliments.

"let's have dinner. It's getting late. She needs to go back home." Jaehyun states and glance at you, "you look pretty in this dress."

Jeno leans towards your side, whispering with his husky voice, "well this kind of dress really suits you. Wear it more often." Chuckling, he continues, "you look a lot more my type even though you already are."

You meet his eyes when he backs away, smirking at your expression. Even though, you are holding a strong façade, your heart is fluttering and skipping beats, the old university student self of yours dancing at the thought of your crush calling you his type --- fucking his type.

"thanks."

At the dining table, you sit between Jeno and Mark, others taking their chairs while conversing among them, "don't you feel lonely staying all alone at that apartment?" Mark asks you, looking at you and brushing your stray hairs away from the face.

"sometimes." It hurts more than anyone can think.

Jeno pats your head, "then come to us. We can hang around and do whatever you want."

"thank you." You mutter under your breath.

"why?" Jeno asks, furrowing his brows but a small smile dancing on his lips, "we did nothing."

"for treating me so nicely. I forgot you all, sorry for that but...", smiling at them, genuinely feeling that you are living a different life with them, "let's know ourselves again." Stupid, how did you forget Jeno? Your crush. That's why the name felt a little familiar and his face was reminding you of someone. But the urgent situation of your days after the university ended left you in such a miserable condition that you had to delete your extra unnecessary stuff from your mind.

The servants serve the food on all of your plates, you don't get to have such a grand and delicious dinner everyday and by their look, this is common for them unlike you. Taking a fry in your hand and biting into it, you realize that it's far more delicious than your daily take-outs at night. You only cook during daytime otherwise you spend your days strolling around the city at night.

"how is the chicken fry?" Jaemin asks you and you quickly look up at him, clearly you were zoning out earlier.

"it's good. Really. Thank you for inviting me and for the food." You send a warm and bright smile towards them.

"Well, you were not coming initially." Haechan comments and before you could reply to him, he laughs it off, "just kidding."

Taeyong clears his throat, "you are free these days."

You stare at him, letting him continue, "have you thought about planning your free days?"

"maybe rotting in my apartment or disappearing to a different country." You shrug in the end.

"do you want to come with us to our penthouse in the mountains?"

Do you?

Jaemin adds into the conversation, "we can stay there until you are getting your next order from your department."

Wow.

It won't be a harm, right?

"it's okay, we are just asking." Jeno assures you when he notices your lost expression. Mark pats your back, urging you to eat before it gets cold but they didn't expect your sudden question.

"when are we leaving?"

You are trusting them a lot, y/n.

For once, you want to experience a life like a normal girl like you were till your university days. Where you had a single identity and your present.

Staying with them is more than fun, you could never imagine that your holidays after the mission would be this entertaining. They are more open and accepting towards you. Their lingering gazes, soft touches, oh you have never missed the innuendo gestures from some of them, especially Jaemin, Jaehyun and Haechan.

You even heard stories from Taeyong how it was like being official government members and now becoming a part of the dark side of the world. The interesting part is that, their public identity is them being the renowned CEOs of the company 'Orange Seoul'. You wondered why they never got confronted by anyone even when they are publicly running a big ass company. The famous government officials, Johnny and Yuta, along with Ten, the intern, are helping them. Kun, the head official of the investigation teams is on their side. Half of the government side is corrupted. But, even if they run these illegal shits, they are helping the government with protecting the innocent people.

Like they are protecting their innocent Ruby --- you from this corrupted world.

Three months, you are staying with them and there was once your teammates needed you but Wooyoung let you skip it and managed it on his own, telling other members that you are sick. He wants you to enjoy your common day life.

There's something to confess --- the little crush on Jeno is igniting again but they don't know one more fact about you that you were attracted to all of them. But this thought itself is weird so it's better to keep it a secret from them.

"hey, what are you doing alone sitting here?" Jaehyun asks and sits beside you. He is in his shorts, he wants to go swimming into the pool and here you are sitting on the edge, dipping your legs into the water and humming a song. You smile at him and your eyes trail over his exposed muscles, abs and the excess visible flesh.

"just relaxing and thinking about my life."

He places his palm over yours by the side, you didn't pull away, "are you not happy?"

"no. it's just I'm loving this life more than my actual one." You sigh.

He stares at your face, the same pretty girl he watched every day at the university days and even if you think he didn't notice your longing gazes at him, he did. He noticed your every secret glance and you watching his basketball matches, hiding behind the pillars in the corner of the indoor stadium. You were too adorable.

"then stay with us. Forever."

You quickly look at him, eyes widening but chuckles because you think he is joking, "you know it's not possible."

"it's only you who can make it possible."

"how?"

He jumps into the pool, water splashes over your whole form and you shout, "hey! You drenched me."

His laugh echoes in the place, "that was the whole point."

"Jaehyun, I swear. You just wait when you come out of the waters." You glare at him but his laugh intensifies, swimming towards you and then stands, brushing back his drenched hair, his body high-lighting under the golden lights of the pool, making it look warm. "don't come closer. I'm going to my room to change-"

He pulls you by your ankle into the water and holds you against his body, "where are you running, sweetheart?" the frown on your face disappears as his endearment causes a shiver run down your spine, his teeth tugging at his lips, your eyes scanning the surroundings where he is focused on you, you can feel his burning gaze and this causes your heart to pound harder against your chest.

Your front flash against his abs, his arms around your waist and smirking down at you in his hold when you look at him, "what are you doing?"

"why didn't you talk to me during university days?" he asks you softly, his eyes solid on your face and his fingers caressing the skin revealing in your stomach because of the crop top. "you know how I hated Heesung for being all friendly with you."

"you were jealous?" you ask him softly, staring back at his handsome face.

The old possessiveness washes over him like a tidal wave, this time you are finally in his hold, so close, he hated when your classmate's eyes were all over you when you both used to converse.

"I am still." He scoffs, "I am better than him."

"he was my friend." You smirk at him. even when your heart is pounding, you are not going to give in to him so easily.

"and who am I?" he asks quickly. You open your mouth to speak, but he appears to be interested in admiring you, rolling your damp hair between his fingers, pulling you closer when he feels you parting away. "I am waiting for your answer." Jaehyun is definitely enjoying this and his sultry gaze remains on your face, your nervous eyes meeting his ravenous gaze.

Your arms drape over his shoulders, with your head titling attractively to the side, "a senior." His smirk widens and his hold tightens around you, pulling you closer to his chest, his free hand gripping your chin to make you look at him.

"oh...that's it? I'm going to make myself more than a senior to you." He dips his head down to attach his lips to your cheek, he pulls apart quickly, hoping for your discomfort but here you are closing your eyes and allowing him to control you. Allowing a mafia member to do anything to the government official. His lips attach to your jaw, trailing down to your throat, your fingers grip his biceps tightly. "y/n...if you don't want this. Tell me to stop."

"No." your breath heaving, parting your eyelids, you match his eyes, "I want this. I need it." your breath stops for a moment for how handsome and attractive he is looking with his glossy lips and water dripping from his hairs.

You turn your head, giving him better access to administer his kisses and licks your neck with now his arms locked on your waist and other holding the back of your neck. He bit your throat when you gasp, "Jae..."

"shhh...we don't want others to hear us. They might come here anytime." Pressing a soft kiss on your lips, a cold chuckle leaves his lips, against your skin, "but that's the main part of the fun." His arm holds your bare legs and hooks them around his waist. Goosebumps arising on your skin with every passing moment, because of the cold water and the gush of wind. But his warm body is distracting you from the surrounding.

He slams his lips on yours, pulling your lower lip with his teeth and deepening his kiss. He wished to kiss this every time when you went to see his match, every time he heard your name in any conversation --- let it be during university, or missions. You reciprocate his kiss with equal fervor.

His hands protectively placed on your back and the other on your ass cheek, he moves towards the ledge with still kissing you feverishly till he reaches the tiled ledge. He settles on it and pulls you on his lap, when you both break the kiss.

"what am I now?" placing a kiss on your lips, he smirks, "I don't think a senior kisses his junior this way."

"well, they do. I have seen Jungwoo kissing one of my classmates once and then the next day he pretended as if it's nothing." You are testing the water and you know it's becoming hot and you are lowkey loving it.

"did you ever have intimacy with anyone?" he asks you all of a sudden. "I want a direct answer. yes or no."

You shake your head, "No."

"would you allow me to do it?" you avert your eyes away, feeling shy all of a sudden.

"I don't know..."

He chuckles in your ears, biting the lobe, "wrong answer, sweetheart."

"then fucking do something."

He laughs lightly, "someone is getting impatient here." He dips his head to your shoulder, smelling into your perfume and humming against your skin, getting lost in your touch when you grab his hair and other roaming around his bare back. "can I take off your top?"

You nod quickly, complying with his every request, agreeing with every word rolling out his tongue. Pulling up your top, he throws it away, his mouth automatically latches with your upper portion of your chest, licking your visible part of the breast pumped out of the bra.

"do you know how to cock-warm?" you shake your head again when he plants a kiss on your temple, "you have to trust me."

"I trust you and that's why I'm here staying with you for three months here in the mountains." You smile softly and rest your head on his shoulder, kissing his neck.

His fingers moving under your drenched skirt, lingering on your inner thigh and you squirm in his hold. His cold fingers coming in contact with your warm core when you gasp in the crook of his neck, "Jaehyun..."

A shiver runs down your spine when he pushes your panty aside and inserts a finger, your folds engulfing his finger and squeezing it tightly, "oh god. How can you make me fit?" his skill-full finger starts moving, "need to prep you so good." Adding one more when you cry out but he hushes you with a kiss and soothing you to relax. adding one more finger, he moves it in a same pace and scissoring often and hitting your g-spot.

A knot builds up in your lower belly and his whispers igniting it, "I'm gonna cum." you are ashamed of how quickly your body is reacting.

"yes. Fucking give it to me, sweetheart. Let it go."

And, you did. Again, complying to his request. You are panting against his chest but he doesn't let you rest, not when he finally gets you to himself after years of waiting and he will prove everything to you. He was controlling himself for last three months and now he is not leaving his only chance with you. He manhandles you to sit straight, pulling his shorts down a bit to reveal his length and grabs it, giving it squeeze and pumping before pulling you and lining the tip to your entrance. Inserting it, you gasp, your glistening eyes meet his lust filled eyes. He bites his lips at your expression.

Kissing your lips, and the top of your head, he chuckles, "are you fine?" He grunts in your ear when your walls squeeze around him and you bit his shoulder. Your nails are digging into his back. He knows, it will leave marks and he will definitely love it more than anything.

"It's hurting, Jaehyun..." you moan into his ear. Tears falling from your eyes and he wipes it off.

"Relax. It'll get better." Kissing your cheek, he smiles softly, "talk to me. Let's talk about something."

"What..." moaning out his name, you continue, trying to look into his eyes, "do you want to hear?"

"About you." He smiles, looking down at you. You are looking so adorable, so cute and innocent. An undercover agent who won't hesitate to kill someone if needed to complete her mission is looking so innocent in his hold. "I want to know so much about you."

This is very sweet and newfound feelings for you because no one ever wanted to know about you and here he is asking you about yourself...moreover, he wanted to know about you. Other boys or men either want to have one night stand or want time to use you for their benefits.

"I am not a villain." You whisper, your breaths tickling in the crook of his neck, his fingers moving along your hairlines, often kissing on the crown of your head and rubbing your back when you are adjusting your head on his shoulder. "Everyone thinks of me as heartless and stubborn but...I am just doing this because this is my life."

"You are my sweetheart. Our little agent, y/n." He laughs lightly in the end. "you are not how you think. you are important to me and to us."

You chuckle, "you know I can slit your throat if..."

"If you were not interested in us." The sudden voice makes you flinch. Jaehyun cranes his head to look at the direction of the intruder when he notices the familiar silhouette of a man behind his back, near the glass door connecting the back room with the pool. Following his gaze, Jaehyun looks down and sees you hiding your face in embarrassment.

"Y/n..."

The click of the boots make you clench around him and his smirk appears on the face.

"You like when someone is watching us?" Even though you are shaking your head yet your walls clenching around him, your slick slipping down his shaft.

The man sits beside Jaehyun, lighting up a cigarette and holding it between his fingers. "Don't you both feel cold? There's so many rooms available."

"Are you jealous?" You can make out Jaehyun's cocky voice. He loves to rile him up.

The latter laughs and places his hand on your thigh, moving up and down, "y/n, look at me. Come on. Don't be all shy with me."

You shake your head. One hand lazily droops around Jaehyun's shoulder and other trying to move the hand on your thigh. The man catches your hand and pulls you towards facing him, making your body jolt a bit. Jaehyun adjusts your hairs to make your face visible clearly.

Your eyes remain closed but a sudden wave of chill runs down your spine when you feel lips attaching to yours, a low whisper with a heavy chuckle, "why don't you give me a show, y/n?"

Eyelids parting, meeting his lust eyes, hungrily watching at you, the warmth of his palms burning on your skin, you find your voice again to speak.

"Taeyong..."

"Yes, baby. Make him feel good." Caressing your cheek, the other side of your face pressed against Jaehyun's chest, your walls clenching tight due to two male's hands roaming around your body and their dark voices directly into your ears.

Taeyong places a kiss on your temple, before sliding down into the water and swims on his own.

"Let's give him a show, sweetheart." Jaehyun moans your name into your ear, licking the lobe, pulling it between his teeth. "You feel so good. So so good."

"Please fuck me, Jaehyun...please please..." you whimpering in his lap.

He laughs, "yes." He thrusts his hip up, earning a loud moan out of you. A whistle can be heard from a distance, meeting Jaehyun's eyes, you follow his gaze behind your back. There Taeyong stood with all his drenched body and brushed back hair and smirking at you both. Lazily, diving towards you from the distance.

The sudden deep thrust makes your eyes avert from the one into the water to the one holding you.

"Jae...hyun."

"Yes, y/n. Say my name." Kissing your cheek, he pulls your head back harshly by grabbing your hair and facing you, licking his own lips at your blissed expression. He thrusts upward, drilling into you. "Say you love it."

"Yes I love it." Your nails digging into his back. Kissing his neck and throat. Making him groan when you move your hip to match his thrust, "please move faster."

"Of course." His drills into you, earning a loud moan out of you. "Yes, just like that. Let everyone know that I'm more than a senior."

"Jae- ugh please." His hold on your hair tightens and your scalp burning with the pull, then you feel another pair of hands hugging you from behind, unclasping the hook of the bra and revealing your chest, bouncing with the effect of the thrusts and Jaehyun's mouth immediately attaches with your hard nipples.

"You look so hot like this." Taeyong's shot breath whisper with water dripping from his hair on your shoulder and his teeth biting your earlobe, fingers pinching and pulling with your left out nipple. "Are you near?"

"Yes yes...wanna cum please." Your tears rolling down your face. Jaehyun's lips leaving your chest to attach with your lips, where Taeyong's free hand sneaks to your clit, rubbing it in circles, igniting the fire in your belly.

"Hold it for us, love." Taeyong said and chuckles in your ear, pressing a soft kiss on your cheek. The both male share looks, having the same hunger and lust for you. But one thing that they got to know is you are a total sub for them even if you are a daring agent —- their little agent.

Your blissed out face, bare body manhandling by them, complying to their everything, begging them for pleasure and their whole attention on you is an absolute sight to see.

"I can't please." your begging got a bite from Taeyong on the side of your throat, they both are marking your body as if they own you. But do they really? What are you to them? That's for later to know. For now, all you can concentrate is on the two hands roaming around you. The lips are attached to every single inch of skin that's visible to their eyes. They couldn't have done anything if you wouldn't have allowed them to touch. But you did. You let them see you in other ways, touch them, feel them, think about you and moreover, you allowed them to have you.

A low chuckle with a wet kiss on your bare shoulder, followed by a whisper from Taeyong, "then let it go for us."

For them. The continuous pressure and their dirty whispers let your body give up in their hands, shaking and moaning loudly, eyes rolling back and feeling as if you are floating on the water of the pool. Even when you ride out your high after cumming hard, they didn't stop, neither their gaze left your body. Jaehyun changes your position from above him to manhandling to cage you between him and the pavement at the ledge. Taeyong supports himself to the side both of you, leaning with his two elbows resting on the tiles and watching you getting fucked out of your mind by his friend. Even when you are begging him to stop, of course you didn't mean it but yet they both were having pride and liked to watch you in that condition under them.

Taeyong chuckles at himself, the girl who had missions to catch him, to gather information against him, is allowing him to watch herself getting fucked and also being a part of the intimacy.

"hold it for me, sweetheart."

Jaehyun's demanding voice makes him look at your face, he catches your glistening hooded eyes glancing at him and back at Jaehyun when the man on top of you puts his around your throat, choking you in the way and making your body arch. His lips attach to your perked up nipples, sucking and teeth pulling them. Leaving your abused breasts, his kisses trail up to your face, kissing all over the beautiful sculpture of his dream --- the girl he dreamt of. His free hand tracing your bare chest down to your belly and presses his palm on your lower belly.

"please, Jaehyun...I can't."

The pad of his thumb moves down to rub circles, starting with slow motion and suddenly increasing the speed, making you cry in the process. Taeyong's palm caress your bare legs which are shaking for your release to be near yet you are ordered to delay it because the man devouring you wants to take his time with you.

Pressing a soft kiss on your lips, Jaehyun finally allows you with a dimpled smile, "let it go."

You grab his wrist of the hand choking you with both of yours and scream his name. others might have heard you but you are relieved that he finally let you come after delaying it for long. The euphoric feeling inside your body is incomparable. You have never felt such an effect even when you used your vibrator or fingers. You definitely needed to experience a real one and you got it. your thoughts break when you feel Jaehyun sliding out from you. A whine leaves your mouth but you hear two chuckles and already knowing, they are enjoying your expressions.

"I love you, y/n." he whispers before leaving a last kiss on your lips, but not giving you enough time to process your mind for a reply. Did he mean it actually?

Chest heaving up and down and your blurred vision returning to normal. Meanwhile Jaehyun pulls you up and places your body between his legs, facing you towards the pool. You can't make out the situation but watch, he puts your legs over his highs and dips his leg into the water, making your core bare when he pulls up the skirt, letting the cold air hit the heated and abused core. The sudden splash of water on your face makes you yelp. Taeyong's laugh echoes in the place and he stands in front of you both. The water compliments his body and he looks so handsome, attractive and... fuckable when inside the waters.

"are you going to report us?" he tilts his head, brushing back his hair and locking eyes with you.

Licking your lips, you manage to raise a brow, "why?"

"for fucking you, obviously." Moving forward, he rests his palms over your thighs, sliding up and down all while locking his eyes with you, his pretty sharp eyes peeking from under the locks when he shakes his head. "are you not?"

"no."

Holding your palms softly with both hands, bringing it to his lips and you swear, it flutters your heart and inside your stomach, you can feel a tingling excitement. Two of your seniors looking at you dearly with heart eyes. "you are so beautiful, y/n." he lets you know this everytime you both bump into each other. Actually, they both are not direct and bold like Jaemin and Haechan. His words are always like a whisper and controlling himself from dwelling further into a river of his feelings.

"do you want to hear? You are handsome." You lazily smirk at him.

He chuckles, intertwining his fingers with yours, "I already know, you think that about me." he leans forward, kissing your ear, whispering seductively, "your sexy and smart mind is full of dirty thoughts. Don't deny the truth."

"you talk as if you know about me." you lean back when his face comes near to you in front, but your actions are restrained because you're caged in Jaehyun's hold. The younger one rests his chin on your shoulder and kisses it often along with your cheek.

Taeyong places a kiss on the tip of your nose, "and what if I know? Baby...don't forget that I am the leader of the gang and there's not only these five men working under my command. There's twenty-five others and all are spread across the country in different professions so if I consider or like to show interest in knowing someone then it's just a job with a snap of my finger."

"and you escaped my hands every time I was just in reach." You huff.

He laughs and shakes his head, "you didn't reach me. I let you come in my radar to catch me. I let you step in my boundary. I let you know about the things I wanted you to know." Placing a kiss on your lips, he mutters, "because I want you to be near me. to watch your smart works."

"I can't be fooled with your fake explanation." You glare but his expression doesn't falter.

"whatever you want to believe and deny, but that doesn't change the truth that I want you."

"you probably say this to every girl you have fucked in those clubs." Your words tugging at your heart, but what's the reason? What are you expecting from him? from them? Maybe nothing. Or maybe...something.

He notices your lost eyes staring back at him. leaving your hands, he cups your face, "do you want to hear the truth or the thing which you are expecting?"

"the truth."

"then..." he kisses your lips, "I told them about you."

You are surprised, "me?"

He nods and signals something to Jaehyun when the latter holds your legs pinned and Taeyong's fingers linger around your inner thigh, teasing your core, making your body twitch under the hold.

Sliding a finger inside your warm walls, feeling the tight clench making him curse under his breath before continuing, "yes, my beautiful dream. Only if I didn't interact with you back in college then I wouldn't have got attracted to you so much. You are my fucking dream."

Moaning out the words under his abuse, "I didn't ever think this."

"because I didn't let you. I didn't let you get a hint of my liking. I let you know about Jeno's name during the mission but to my disappointment, you didn't recall us. It's okay...finally you are here. With me. with us." He says and bite down your bare shoulder, attacking the same pressure on your throat where Jaehyun already left his marks.

You buck your hip upwards, the fire in your belly indicating the nearing of your climax even after coming three times earlier. You are in a daze and this resolve is difficult to get down when the pleasure inside your body is taking your mind and soul to float in cloud 9.

"there you go, baby."

The sight of you is not enough for him. He wants more. Heck, he wants to see you like this forever. You are the fucking reality --- not his dream only.

Letting you ride out your high, he pulls back his finger. Licking it all the way and after dipping his whole body into the water, he gets out. Your back pressed against the younger's body, who manages to cradle you while standing up too. He lets you rest your head on his shoulder and takes you to the back room. He follows behind Taeyong who rubs dry his body and throws away the towel. Suddenly, halting in his way near the couch and staring at you with his predatory gaze.

"put her over there." He gestures to Jaehyun to place you on the couch beside where he is standing. Without wasting any time, he slightly throws you on the leather, making your body bounce with your boobs. "won't you make me feel good as a 'thank you'?"

You thought that it's over and they are going to freshen up but here you are under the hovering body of Taeyong who is impatiently waiting for your reply.

You are again with your remarks with them, "just say you want to fuck me."

"ah, baby." Caressing your cheek lovingly, then suddenly yanking your head back with your hairs, sculp burning under the hold, "you are all talk when we are not doing anything but when one of us is fucking. You are just blank with moans and begging." Smirking down at you, he tilts his head, "but I love to see your daring self. I love your undercover agent version."

"are you not scared if I catch you after all these?"

He tsks, leaning back, putting down his shorts when Jaehyun announces his leave to freshen up, before sending a wink at you. The elder one ignores him and grabs your face while the other his shaft, his is not as big as his friend but the girth is strong. "it's you who is scared to lose us after all these."

All he got was silence. Lose them? Does it matter to you? You are allowing this to happen because you need distraction and a little bit change in your life. Also, it's better when you are having your chances with your crushes. You thought they only know about Jeno because he was your batchmate along with Jaemin and Haechan. If they cared to know about you then they might have interested. You are thinking a lot again.

Grabbing your chin harshly, his thumb pulls your lower lips to part your mouth and kisses you hungrily. It feels like he has waited enough and finally he got his reward. His tongue meshing against yours, and you moan hotly into his mouth when you feel his tip teasing your entrance.

Your moan turns into whimper when he again bites your lips and at the same time inserts himself into you, your already over prepped core welcoming him but clenching so tightly ever as if you are still a virgin.

He is not patient and smooth like Jaehyun, he is rough and messy because as soon as he feels your walls choking his length, he thrusts his hip deeper into you, making the view nasty and vigorously fucking into you. Grabbing your breasts and fondling with them, he dips his head down again to place a kiss on your forehead. The sudden soft gesture makes your eyelid part. Your confuse face staring at him.

"why did you choose this life? This is not safe. You should have been a developer."

Your back arch back when he hit the right spot but he slows down his action when he notices that you are struggling to answer him, "as I said I needed money."

"why?" he asks while rolling your perk nipples between his fingers and soon attaching his mouth with them. String of saliva connecting from his mouth to your nipples and he curse so bad because he loves that.

"an emergency."

"because your orphanage was attacked?" his question earns a nod followed by a loud moan when he bit down on a sensitive portion near your nipple. "but you went back to your hometown, to your grandparents and then somewhere I couldn't find out."

"when I went back..ugh..they were sick and while I was living with them, they died because of the sudden deterioration of their health. My town friend Yunho, he took me under his wing, hiding my identity all along and that's how I am here now." You moan in the end.

A wave of jealousy and possessiveness makes his hold tightens around you, "who is he to you?"

"someone who helped me in my misery."

His finger starts rubbing your clit when your hip bucks upward in the need of more, "anything more than that?"

"Taeyong, you are clearly jealous."

"cause I am." He thrusts harder, increasing is speed and filling the room with both of your moans, "I am not giving you up to someone else." His tip brushes against your sweet spot and you cry out.

"please ..... please Taeyong...let me cum."

"should I?"

"please..." tears of pleasure streaming down your eyes and this allowing him to edge you until you are nothing more than a senseless doll. No. you are his dream and he doesn't want to let you disappear into void.

He smiles, pressing a sensual kiss on your lips, "then cum with me, love."

Just like Jaehyun, his warm liquid painting your walls, filling you up with his loads and leaving you a panting mess after riding out both of your high. Pulling out, he cradles you on his lap on the couch, brushing back your hair, resting your head against his chest, "let's get you freshen up."

"I don't have energy..." you mumble weakly under your breath.

He strokes your hair, "I'll do all the work, you just need to be awake for a little. I promise I'll be quick." All he got is a nod and closed eyes with slow breathing from you in his hold.

"I love you so much, y/n."

He had the courage to say everything but not having the courage to confess.

.

.

.

The room is dimly lit, the aftermath of a passionate night leaving you utterly spent. You're lying in bed, still catching your breath, when you feel the comforting warmth of two boys beside you. They're gentle, their touches tender as they help you settle in, pulling the covers around you and making sure you're comfortable.

Taeyong leans in, his hand softly brushing the hair from your face. "You okay?" he asks, his voice low and full of concern. You nod, too tired to say much, but the way they're both looking at you, with a mix of affection and care, tells you everything you need to know—they're not just satisfied with leaving things as they are. They want to take care of you.

"I want to say something."

Jaehyun smiles, "what, sweetheart?"

"I love you...", licking your lips, you pull the cover over your head, "I love both of you."

before drifting off to sleep, you hear both of their chuckles and sweet whispers to you.

Over the next few days, their behavior shifts in subtle but significant ways. They're always close, whether it's offering you a drink, insisting you to rest, or just being there in quiet moments, their presence reassuring. They share knowing glances, inside jokes that have developed between the three of you, and this newfound closeness doesn't go unnoticed.

As the weeks pass, this bond deepens. They're more attentive, more protective, their touches lingering a little longer, their smiles a little softer when directed at you. Whether it's cooking your favorite meals, sitting close during movie nights, or those quiet moments when they just hold you, their affection is palpable, making you feel cherished in a way that's hard to describe.

But this shift doesn't go unnoticed by the other boys in your circle. The four of them begin to pick up on the change—the way you're almost always flanked by the two who've become more than just friends. They start to notice the small, intimate gestures, the shared looks, the way you laugh a little more easily with these two.

At first, it's subtle—a lingering glance here, a small frown there. They're curious, maybe even a bit confused, trying to understand what's shifted. But as time goes on, curiosity gives way to something else—a light, simmering jealousy. It's not overt, but it's there in the way they sometimes hover a bit closer, how they seek your attention with just a bit more intensity, hoping to draw you back into their orbit.

It's not that they're angry, but rather, they miss the ease and equality that existed before this new dynamic. They miss being the ones who made you laugh, who you turned to without hesitation. And now, they're feeling just a touch left out, a little envious of the closeness that developed between you and the other two.

Despite this, they don't say anything outright. Instead, they try to win back your attention in their own ways—bringing you small gifts, inviting you on outings, or just being a little more present, hoping to remind you of the bonds you share with them too.

This gentle tug-of-war for your attention creates a new, interesting tension in your group. It's not unpleasant, but it's there—a reminder of how much you mean to each of them, and how these new dynamics have stirred emotions none of you quite anticipated.

.

.

.

The morning light filters softly through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over your room. You're nestled deeply in the comfort of your blankets, drifting in that blissful state between sleep and wakefulness. The world is still hazy, and you're savoring these last few moments of peace when you feel a soft nudge on your shoulder.

"Rise and shine, sleepyhead," a familiar voice murmurs, the amusement clear in his tone.

You groggily pry your eyes open, squinting against the light, to find two boys standing at the side of your bed. They're both grinning, their expressions laced with a mixture of affection and mischief. Jaemin, with a triumphant look, is holding a tray, carefully balanced with your favorite breakfast— a perfectly crafted omelet, a side of fresh fruit, and a steaming cup of coffee, brewed exactly to your taste.

"Good morning," the Haechan chimes in, leaning closer with the coffee, letting the rich aroma reach you. "We thought you might need some sustenance after, well, last night." His voice drops playfully on the last two words, and his eyes gleam with mischief.

Still groggy, you push yourself up into a sitting position, the warmth of the blankets slipping down to your waist. They both sit down on either side of you, placing the tray gently on your lap, ensuring nothing spills.

"Did you know these walls are paper-thin?" Jaemin quips, his tone casual but the twinkle in his eye unmistakable.

"Yeah, like, ridiculously thin," Haechan adds, barely suppressing a chuckle. "We heard everything."

The realization hits you like a wave, and your cheeks flush crimson as you connect the dots. They're talking about last night—about the intimate moments you thought were confined within the walls of your room. Taeyong and Jaehyun often find their ways to be with you to spend a steamy night, let it be alone or two of them together. You open your mouth to respond, but words fail you as they both break into laughter, the sound filling the room.

"Don't worry," Jaemin grins and says, handing you the coffee with a smirk. "We're just having a bit of fun."

"you could have ignored it..."

Haechan, ever the tease, reaches over to tousle your hair affectionately. "Yeah, but seriously, maybe keep it down next time. Or don't. Just give us a heads-up so we can grab some earplugs or, you know, make plans to be with you." You miss out on the last part of his mischievous words.

They exchange a knowing glance, their laughter bubbling up again, lighthearted and carefree. Despite the embarrassment warming your cheeks, you find yourself smiling, too. It's impossible not to, given the way their banter fills the room with such a genuine, easy warmth.

You take a sip of the coffee, savoring the perfect balance of flavors, and the thoughtful gesture behind it. They woke up early, probably tiptoeing around the kitchen to surprise you with breakfast, even if they couldn't resist poking fun at you in the process.

As they continue to jest, their voices a comforting, familiar presence, you realize just how much these small moments of shared laughter and connection mean. They may tease you relentlessly, but the care and effort they put into this morning—a breakfast made with affection, a coffee brewed just right—speak volumes. It's these moments, filled with laughter and teasing, that make the bonds between you all so unbreakable, so real.

.

.

.

The house is quiet, a soft, comforting silence wrapping around you as you wander through the living room, taking in the small details of the place that has become a home to you. You shouldn't let your guards down so easily. But still your boundaries are melting around them. The walls are adorned with memories—photos, mementos, little pieces of the boys' lives that tell stories of who they were and who they've become.

Your gaze falls on a particular picture frame resting on a shelf, slightly hidden among the other frames but somehow drawing your attention. The photo inside is a snapshot from years ago, taken during their university days. In the picture, the boys standing messily, grinning widely, with you sandwiched between them, laughing at something that must have been funny in the moment. You look younger, carefree, and so utterly happy.

You can't help but stare at the photo, a flood of memories rushing back. You remember that day vividly—the warmth of the sun on your skin, the infectious energy of being with them, the easy laughter that flowed so freely between you all. It had been one of those perfect days, the kind that lingers in your mind long after it's passed.

The day you met them at the ground to thank them for helping and later spending the day with them.

Lost in thought, you don't notice them entering the room. It isn't until you hear a soft chuckle behind you that you realize you're not alone.

"are you searching for evidence against us?" Jeno whispers in your ear from behind. "my little agent on work?"

you flinch suddenly because you were not attentive to your surrounding because you think you are safe, "I already have a lot of evidence..." eyeing the photo with more interest, "I am not a loser agent. I get everything secretly."

"That was a good day, wasn't it?" Mark says, his voice warm and fond. You turn to see them both standing there, watching you with matching smiles, their eyes soft with affection.

You nod, your gaze drifting back to the picture. "It was. I didn't know you still had this," you say, your voice tinged with a mix of surprise and nostalgia.

"We couldn't get rid of it, even if we wanted to," Jeno responds, stepping closer to stand beside you. He reaches out, gently lifting the frame from the shelf so he can get a better look at it, his smile deepening as he takes in the image. "This picture means a lot to us."

You look at them both, curiosity piqued by the way they're gazing at the photo, as if it holds a significance you hadn't realized before. "Why is it so special?"

Mark brushes his hairs and glances at you, his expression softening as he begins to explain. "That day was more than just a fun memory for us. It was the day we realized how much we cared about you."

He pauses, searching for the right words. "We had been friends for a long time, but that day, something changed. We saw you in a different light, like we suddenly understood just how important you were to us—not just as a friend, but as someone we wanted to share everything with.

"we were never friends. it's just batchmates but you were in a different section." You lick your lips while glancing at Jeno, continuing, "I just interacted with you and other two for the notes or other stuff."

"you were very distant and moody but still Haechan tried to interact with you a lot." Jeno says and gives you a eye-smile. "we still considered you as our friend. We noticed and watched you since the first day of our college life."

Mark nods, picking up where his partner left off. "We had always been close, the four of us, but that day, we felt something shift. It was like... like we knew, deep down, that we didn't want to go through life without you. That picture captures the moment when we realized we loved you, not just as a friend, but as someone we wanted to be with."

You're taken aback by the sincerity in their voices, the depth of emotion in their eyes. They had never told you this before—never shared just how much that day had meant to them, how it had marked the beginning of something so much deeper than the friendliness you'd all shared.

"You never said anything," you murmur, your voice barely above a whisper as you try to process their words.

"We didn't know how to," Mark admits, his gaze dropping to the photo in his hands. "We were afraid—afraid that if we said something, it might change everything, that we might lose you if you didn't feel the same way."

Jeno reaches out, placing a gentle hand on your shoulder. "But we didn't lose you. Somehow, things just... fell into place. And when we look at this picture, it reminds us of how far we've come, how lucky we are to have you in our lives."

There's a pause, a brief moment of silence as the weight of their words settles in. You look at the photo again, seeing it now through their eyes—how it captured not just a moment of joy, but the beginning of something so much more profound.

"You mean everything to us," Mark continues, his voice thick with emotion. "And that picture is a reminder of the day we realized that. We've loved you since that moment, and we haven't stopped loving you since."

You feel a lump form in your throat, your heart swelling with an overwhelming mix of emotions. To know that they had felt this way for so long, that this simple photo held so much meaning for them, is almost too much to take in.

Without thinking, you step forward, wrapping your arms around Jeno, holding him close as you try to convey all the love and gratitude you feel in that moment. He immediately returns the embrace, his arms tightening around you, as if he is afraid to let go.

"I love you," you whisper, your voice thick with emotion. "I've loved you for so long, and I'm so glad that you found your way to me. I never told you about my feelings because I thought I was being stupid to think like that." You chuckles, "loving more than one person is such a wild and foolish decision. I love you, too." You glance at Mark.

Jeno holds you a little tighter, Mark comes behind you and strokes your hairs, pressed his forehead against the back of your head, their breaths warm against your skin as they press their foreheads against yours. In that embrace, surrounded by their warmth, you feel the weight of everything that picture represents—the past, the present, and the future you'll continue to build together. It's a moment of pure connection, one that transcends words, as you stand there, wrapped up in each other, knowing that this love has been with you all along, waiting to be fully realized.

Mark whispers, "you are not stupid. You are our little agent. My perfect girlfriend."

"girlfriend?"

Jeno presses a soft kiss on your head, "let's make it official."

.

.

.

The air is crisp and fresh as you step out of the car, the scent of pine trees and earth filling your lungs. The four boys had insisted on taking you somewhere special when Taeyong and Jaehyun went back to their mansion for an important work, and about the surprise --- they'd been frustratingly vague about the details, their excitement barely contained. Now, as you look around at the vast expanse of wilderness, with the sun beginning to set and casting a warm, golden glow over the mountain peaks, you start to understand why they wanted to keep this a surprise.

The sky above is a masterpiece of colors—shades of orange, pink, and purple blend together like a watercolor painting, creating a scene so breathtaking that it feels like you've stepped into another world. The boys have always known how much you love nature, how the mountains make you feel alive and at peace all at once. But there's something different about tonight—something in the air that tells you this moment is more than just a casual outing.

You follow them up a narrow trail, the sound of crunching leaves beneath your feet and the occasional rustle of wildlife the only noises breaking the tranquil silence. As you climb higher, the view opens up before you, revealing a stunning panorama of rolling hills and distant valleys, bathed in the soft, fading light of the day.

When you reach the top, you find yourself standing on a flat, open plateau, surrounded by the majesty of nature. The boys stop a few feet ahead of you, turning around to face you with expressions that are suddenly serious, their usual playfulness replaced by something deeper.

"Why did you bring me here?" you ask, your voice soft in the stillness of the mountain air. There's a flutter of anticipation in your chest, a sense that something important is about to happen.

They exchange a few glances, as if silently deciding who should speak first. Finally, one of them steps forward, Mark's eyes locking onto yours. There's a tenderness in his gaze that makes your heart flutter.

"We wanted to bring you somewhere special," he begins, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Somewhere quiet, away from everything else, so we could tell you how we really feel."

You blink, taken aback by the intensity in his voice. "How do you feel?"

Jaemin nods, stepping up beside the first. "We've all been holding onto these feelings for a long time," he says, his voice low and sincere. "But it's not easy to put them into words. We didn't want to rush this, or make you feel pressured, so we waited until we were sure you were ready to hear it."

You glance between them, feeling a mix of anticipation and nervousness building in your chest. "Ready to hear what?"

Jeno steps closer, a small smile playing on his lips. "We love you," he says simply, the words falling from his lips as if they've been waiting forever to be spoken. "Not just as friends, but as something more. Each of us, in our own way, has fallen in love with you."

Yeah, you can recall the conversation you had with Jeno and Mark a week ago.

Your breath catches in your throat, your mind racing to process what you've just heard. You had always felt a strong connection with them, but you had never expected this—four hearts, all directed toward you, each one holding a love so deep and pure. Plus two more.

Haechan steps closer, his eyes locking with yours. "You mean everything to us," he says, his voice soft but unwavering. "We've been through so much together, and over time, we've all realized that what we feel for you is more than just friendship. It's something we can't ignore anymore."

You swallow hard, your emotions swirling inside you. This isn't what you expected when they brought you up here, and yet, somehow, it feels like everything is finally falling into place.

Every day after returning from those cruel missions, you expected to hear such words from someone, to feel such care and love from someone but all you used to get welcomed by a silent and confined apartment room. And, now you are overwhelmed with all these sudden confessions from four of your crushes.

"I don't know what to say," you finally manage, your voice barely above a whisper.

"You don't have to say anything right now," Mark reassures you, stepping closer so he can place a hand on your shoulder. "We just needed you to know. We've all been struggling with these feelings for so long, and it felt wrong to keep them hidden from you any longer."

Haechan steps forward, reaching for your hand. His touch is gentle, almost hesitant, as if he's afraid you might pull away. "We've been there for each other through everything—the good times and the bad. And somewhere along the way, what we felt for you became something more than just friendship."

Jaemin nods, his expression earnest. "We've all had moments where we wanted to tell you, but we were scared. Scared of what it might mean, scared of how you might react. But the truth is, we couldn't go on pretending these feelings didn't exist."

There's a brief pause, a moment where the weight of their words hangs in the air between you. You look at each of them, seeing the vulnerability in their eyes, the raw honesty in their faces. They're laying their hearts bare before you, offering you a love that's as vast and wild as the mountains surrounding you.

Finally, you find your voice. "I... I love you too," you say, the words tumbling out in a rush. "I've felt something for each of you for so long, but I didn't know what it was. I didn't know if it was okay to feel this way, or if you'd feel the same. But hearing you say it... it makes everything so clear."

Relief washes over their faces, a collective breath released as they step closer, closing the distance between you. Jaemin pulls you into a hug, his arms wrapping around you in a warm, comforting embrace. The others quickly join in, surrounding you with their warmth, their love, their sheer presence.

"I was so afraid of losing you," Jeno murmurs into your ear, his voice thick with emotion. "But now, I feel like we've found something even more incredible."

Haechan rests his forehead against yours, his eyes closed as if savoring the moment. "We've always been a team, the four of us. And now, it feels like we've finally found the missing piece."

Mark, still holding your hand, squeezes it gently. "We don't want to rush you or overwhelm you. We just want you to know that we're here, that we love you, and that we'll take this one step at a time, together."

Tears prick at the corners of your eyes, not from sadness but from the overwhelming sense of love and belonging that washes over you. You've always known that these boys were special to make your heart flutter during university but you never this magical moment to happen in future and even this way. But now, standing here on this mountaintop with the sun setting behind you and the stars beginning to twinkle in the evening sky, you realize that this is where you're meant to be—with them, with the boys who have captured your heart.

"I don't want to lose any of you," you say, your voice trembling slightly. "I want to be with all of you, if that's what you want too."

They nod in unison, their expressions softening with a mixture of joy and relief. The first boy cups your face in his hands, his thumb gently brushing away the tears that have started to fall. "We want that too," he says, his voice tender. "We'll figure it out together, no matter what. We'll take care of each other, just like we always have."

As the last rays of sunlight fade and the first stars begin to twinkle in the evening sky, you find yourself standing on that mountaintop, surrounded by the boys you love, knowing that this is only the beginning of a new and beautiful journey together. The mountains stand as silent witnesses to your confession, the trees swaying gently in the evening breeze, as if nature itself is celebrating the love you've found with each other.

And as you stand there, wrapped in their arms, you know that no matter what challenges lie ahead, you'll face them together—with love, with strength, and with the unbreakable bond that has brought you all to this moment.

The mission had been one of the most challenging yet. You had spent the past few hours slipping through the shadows, navigating a world of deception, lies, and danger. When it was over, and you finally returned home, all you wanted was a moment of peace—a chance to breathe, to let the tension unwind from your body. You have returned back from the mountain penthouse and it's often that you go back to them after missions.

But as soon as you stepped through the door of the grand mansion, you knew peace was the last thing you would find.

The atmosphere in the place is thick with tension, a suffocating heaviness that hit you the moment you cross the threshold. The lights are dim, casting long shadows across the room, but you could still see them—your four boys who are not busy like the two elders, waiting for you. Their faces are etched with worry, anger, and something that cut even deeper: betrayal.

You had known this confrontation was inevitable, but you hadn't expected it to come so soon. You had hoped to have a little time to collect yourself, to prepare for the conversation you knew was coming. But they weren't going to wait.

"Where the hell have you been?" Jaemin snapped, his voice tight, almost trembling with the effort to stay calm. He was usually the one to greet you with a warm smile and a gentle touch, but tonight, there was none of that. His eyes, usually so full of warmth, were now sharp and accusatory as they raked over your appearance.

You were still in the dress—the dress that had been chosen specifically to attract attention, to blend into the crowd at the club, to play a role that was far removed from who you really were. It was a sleek, figure-hugging number that left little to the imagination, paired with makeup that was meant to dazzle, to seduce. It was a disguise, a tool, nothing more. But to them, it was something else entirely.

You opened your mouth to speak, to explain, but another voice cut you off.

"And what the hell were you thinking, wearing that?" Jeno demanded, his voice harsher than you'd ever heard it. He was usually the voice of reason, the one who calmed the others down when things got heated, but now there was nothing calm about him. His eyes were dark, filled with a mix of hurt and anger as they lingered on the dress.

"And don't even get me started on how close you were with that guy at the club," Haechan added, his voice tinged with an edge of bitterness. He had always been the more possessive one, protective to a fault, but this time, his protectiveness had turned into something more volatile.

You sighed, feeling the weight of their emotions pressing in on you from all sides. This was exactly what you had been trying to avoid—this confrontation, this pain. But you had made your choice, and now you had to face the consequences.

"It was part of the mission," you began, trying to keep your voice steady, though you could hear the exhaustion creeping in. "I had to blend in, to be someone who could get close enough to him to get the information we needed. The dress, the act, it was all just a cover. Nothing more."

But they weren't buying it. Mark steps forward, his eyes filled with something that looked dangerously close to betrayal. "You could have told us," he said, his voice quieter than the others but no less intense. "You could have prepared us for what you were about to do, for what we were going to see. But instead, we find out through some grainy surveillance footage? Do you have any idea what that felt like? Watching you with him, dressed like that, acting like—" He broke off, his voice faltering, unable to finish the sentence. He was angry.

You told your detailed format to Taeyong and Jaehyun and honestly, they were more dangerously mad at you and denied the very first instance you brought the topic.

They are always possessive of you so that you don't get hurt and there is this glint of danger in their eyes whenever you are close to any other men be it for the sake of the missions.

You could see it in their eyes—they were hurt, deeply hurt. This wasn't just about the dress or the mission. It was about trust, about feeling like you had kept them in the dark, excluded them from something important. They had always known your job was dangerous, that it required you to do things they weren't comfortable with, but this felt different. This felt personal.

"I didn't want to worry you," you said, your voice softening as the guilt started to settle in. "I know how hard it is for you to see me in situations like that. I thought... I thought it would be easier if you didn't know the details until it was over."

"hard for us?" Jaemin shook his head, his voice thick with frustration. "No, you were protecting yourself. You didn't want to deal with how we'd react, so you shut us out. That's not how this works."

Mark stepped closer, his voice softer now, but no less firm. "We understand that your job requires you to do things we might not like. We've accepted that. But you should have trusted us enough to tell us the truth, to let us in. Instead, we were blindsided, and that hurt more than anything."

Haechan, usually the most affectionate and playful, was uncharacteristically silent, his arms crossed over his chest as he watched you with a mixture of hurt and disappointment. Jeno just looked serious, like this had taken more out of him than he was willing to admit.

You were cornered, not just physically but emotionally, the weight of their disappointment and concern bearing down on you. You had tried to keep them away from worrying, but in doing so, you had pushed them away. You had underestimated how much they needed to be a part of your life, all of it—the good, the bad, and the ugly.

"I'm sorry," you finally said, your voice breaking slightly as the emotions you had been holding back all night finally began to surface. "I never wanted to hurt you. I thought I was doing the right thing by keeping you out of it, but I see now that I was wrong. I should have trusted you more. I should have let you in."

There was a long, heavy silence as your words hung in the air. The anger in their eyes began to fade, replaced by a deep, weary sadness. They wanted to be angry, but more than that, they wanted to understand. They wanted to move past this, but the hurt was still fresh, the wounds still raw.

Jaemin reached out, his hand trembling slightly as he took yours, squeezing it gently. "We just want to be part of your life," he said, his voice soft but firm. "All of it. Even the parts that scare us. Especially those parts."

Mark nodded, stepping closer to place a hand on your shoulder. "We're in this together, remember? That means no more secrets. No more keeping things from us because you think you're protecting us. We can handle it, but only if you let us in."

Haechan finally uncrossed his arms, moving to stand beside you, his expression softening as he placed a gentle kiss on your temple. "We love you. That's not going to change. But we need you to trust us. We need to be a team."

Jeno, still looking serious but less distant, finally spoke up, his voice quiet but resolute. "We know this job is hard, and we're not asking you to change who you are or what you do. We just want to be there for you, the way you're always there for us."

You felt a wave of relief wash over you as they closed in around you, surrounding you with their warmth and love. The tension that had been suffocating you slowly began to dissipate, replaced by a renewed sense of connection, of trust. You had made a mistake, but they were willing to forgive you, to move forward together.

"I promise," you said, your voice trembling with the weight of that promise. "No more secrets. From now on, we face everything together."

They nodded, their expressions softening as they drew you into a tight embrace, each of them holding you close.

"but you need to compensate for the emotions you made us felt. You made us worry and angry when we didn't know nothing about your whereabouts." Jaemin states and raises a brow at you, "Thanks to Hyuck that he chalks out everything and we finally got to you."

"what compensation?" your question is more of a surprise.

Jaemin's words click something in their mind altogether when the corner of their lips curling up, the previous turmoil of emotion --- anger and worry changing to lust and dark hunger. Oh! As soon as you step backward, your back comes in contact with a hard chest, his arms caging you to his front and his lips automatically hovering over your ear, chuckling heavily and huskily says, "don't run away, princess. We have not done yet."

You crane tour neck to look at Jeno whose smirk widens after meeting your anticipating eyes. "I don't understand."

"it's really hard to believe that coming from an undercover agent who is looking all fuckable in front of us." Haechan says and licks his lips, already imagining all the possibilities of later tonight. His thoughts wander a lot of places. Jaemin holds your hand, pulling you away from Jeno, his grip is tight when he pulls you towards the stairs, the others following behind you two.

He steps forward pushing you inside the room. Mark sits down on the gaming chair and rotates it so he's facing the king sized bed. They use this room whenever they play some games, staying up all night or for other enjoyment like now. Jeno took off his shirt, already feeling hot by thinking about you and throws it away on the sofa and is smirking while watching you closely.

you feel timid being around and watched by them, so you looked everywhere except their eyes. the silence stretched for a couple of minutes before Jaemin breaks it. no one can believe that the mafia members are commanding a smart government agent to put on a show for them.

"Come on, show us how you seduced the man back at the club." he starts then rests his back completely at the chair in the corner.

your feet glued at the floor and breathing got hitched while facing your back at Haechan. His gaze burning at your back from the edge of the bed where he is sitting all ready to start their game, the others heated gaze pierced cutting your dress into million pieces. you can feel it.

"don't keep us waiting." Mark says in a very demanding tone. "or you want us to help you out with it? I didn't see any helping hand back then."

slowly, you met their eyes with a slight fear flickering through your eyes. It'll be stupid to say that you are scared of them but the anticipation building inside you of what might happen is rising goosebumps all over your skin.

"h-huh? but we're supposed to rest. I mean I'm literally tired after the deal."

"oh fuck that old bastard, sweetheart! we're going to make you more tired if you keep us waiting." Jeno interrupts, smirking after licking his plump lips once. his eyes stare at you like a hungry predator. Your eyes rake all over his bare body in only jeans. Aware of the fact that he is a gym rat but tonight in this gaze, he is looking more exquisite --- more like yours. The same feeling you felt back in university days, whenever he came late to the classes, or passed by you in a hurry for practice. You loved him. and the first person you intended to spy on was him. of course.

"You are eye-fucking him. not complaining, I love when you take control over something." Jaemin says, mischief lazing through his voice while smirking sexily beside Mark.

Jeno and Jaemin both sat on the sofa. the man who has his polo unbuttoned all the way, leaning forward as his elbow rests over his knees and eyes burning at you. he's quiet and red plump lips hardly pursed. his dark, thick eyebrows narrowed together. His pretty eyelashes with his kissable lips never fail to attract you towards him and that was the reason why you always stole glances in the college. He is a flirt unlike Jeno but whenever these two are together, God forbid their teasing.

you remained standing awkwardly in the middle of the bedroom, the door a few feet away from you. it slid inside your mind. to try and run away from them. but it's impossible. with their build, they can easily catch you. Also, it's not that you don't like it. you have never been with four of them together.

besides, Jeno is sitting on the path towards it. he can easily grab and stop you from escaping. that's totally crossed out of your plans. And you will definitely love to be manhandled by them.

you heaved a sigh, "how?"

"less words, more actions." If Mark is commanding you, then you should better listen than to piss him off because he is sometimes unpredictable. You glance at him, biting your lips and your mind flooding with what to do at the moment. You swear that you have never felt so tense even during your work, but facing these four hungry eyes is a lot more difficult.

instantly, your lips are pursed hardly. despite him showing a little smile a while ago, you're terrified whenever he's very serious but you are enjoying it more than they can imagine. Hiding the smirk threatening to appear on your face, you turn around to face Haechan who is all silent all these times.

"we're waiting, baby." He catches your attention. "or should I say that I'm impatient to experience it?"

you stare at him for a while and realized that you have nowhere to go. they got you cornered and stripped off of choices. once again, you're helpless around these four men. You allowed them to make you helpless. If needed, you will allow them again and again and again...

you brush your hairs before tugging them behind your ears and Haechan's eyes drops from your pretty eyes to your lips. they're looking kissable and he is eager to suck them until it starts bleeding and he's certain it's the best thing to witness. his grin grew wider. his nerves are shaking in excitement. he couldn't wait to have you, to devour you, to ruin you.

You step forward towards him.

"go on, y/n." Mark, again with his stern voice.

your cast a last glance towards them before advancing your steps to the one sitting on the edge of the bed, waiting for his girl. his eyes then soften and he sighs, fists curling on the mattress.

"Come on, baby. Let's pretend we are the mafias and you are here to catch us and for that you have to lure us with your seduction." he says in a calm voice. It's still a surprise how he's acting right now. he's not sassy and giving cocky remarks but calmly asking you how to start the show he wants to watch and feel. it slightly made you feel excited more like him, like them.

You stand in front of him, making an eye-contact with him, you strangled on his lap, putting your legs on the either side of his thighs and sit, facing him closely, you can feel his breath over your chest and your dress rolling up your thighs, revealing more of your skin.

A sudden music blooms inside the room, you have heard this music once from Jaemin, it's one of his favorite songs --- Love Talk, "let's make it more feel like a club." he says that got your heart rate pace up. your legs tightens around Haechan's waist.

Haechan rolls his eyes, "yeah, whatever. I'm just trying to make her feel excited like us. you're putting too much pressure on her even when she is tired after her return." You crane your neck to look at the three men behind you.

Jeno clicks his tongue and glanced back at you. his eyes looked more aggressive, screams more danger.

"why, sweetheart? You are not excited? But I think -" he stepped closer, making you hold your breath.

"she is enjoying it more than you think." Mark smirks in the end of his words, his face are inches away from yours when he walks closer to you, that you can feel his hot breath fanning your skin.

"let her begin already, you are making our turn delay." Jeno says and plants a kiss on the side of your throat.

Mark ignores him and kept his stares right at your pretty face. despite the lack of answer, the little spark and fear in your eyes were enough to tell him that you are indeed excited. it didn't make him feel happy, instead it drives him more-crazy. You are definitely their dirty little agent.

"show me, y/n. I'm still waiting." Haechan groans and snakes his arms around you, pulling you close flush to his body. The other two males return to their respective seats and preparing to enjoy the show unfolding in front of them.

you gulp and return your gaze back at the man holding you, starting to fasten your pace. now unbuttoning his white polo— you want to rip it and launch at him.

He clenches his jaw hardly, fighting so hard not to moan loudly when your hands working to undress him. this is not the first time that he will be so intimate with you, being in such intense tension between you both, but he is excited because he will have you in front of his friends. to show them how perfect you are for him --- oh need to keep in mind --- for them.

that thought was the only thing that is going on repeat inside his head. he couldn't help but to feel excited thinking about it.

Jaemin stands up that made other two glance at his direction. He trudges towards you both where you are sliding down the shirt off Haechan's body.

"don't get in the way." Jeno warns him, but the latter just smirks at him before getting close to you, before you could understand what's happening, he spanks your ass. Jaemin throws him a short glance as he licks his lip. You yelp in the sudden effect.

"it's intriguing and can't help it." he brushes back his hair. "I'm going to love to smack it again." he added then glance at Mark, "are we still up with our plan, right?"

Mark stares for a while before tearing his gaze off of Jaemin and nods slowly. His gaze returns back to your back, looking so sexy with your backless dress.

"you are so hot baby. Can you take off my clothes every day?" Haechan purrs in your ears, when you finished getting rid of his polo and starts kissing his jaw and throat. You grab his hairs and pulls them before bringing your lips to his ears.

"Haechan..." you kiss his neck and bite slightly, "I can do anything you want."

"shit." he shortly said. He yanks your head, pulling your hairs, grabbing them messily and stares at your face, all dolled up earlier for the club. The possessiveness in him becoming strong that you were so close with that old man. "did you kiss him this way too, baby?"

you stared at his eyes and slowly shake your head. You can definitely see his jealousy and hunger in his eyes for you. Always knowing his possessive and jealous self behind that sassy attitude of his. He used to often fool around with Taeyong and Mark at college and your eyes were all over them. Haechan was always surrounded by girls because he loves the attention and once, your heart broke when you got the news of him having a girlfriend. Whatever, he is now all yours.

"it's only for you." You kiss his lips, before smiling seductively at him, "you are mine. So, I'll only kiss you."

the moment you finished the sentence, showing your hot agent look in front of them, you feel shy suddenly when you feel their eyes focused on you. Haechan returns a soft kiss back to you, smiling mischievously. the four men stares silently, their eyes grew darker, looked hungrier.

"you are perfect for me. that old man should not have touched you." He mumbles, this time a lot softer. "I want to erase his touch from your skin, from your memory." he added while pulling you into a feverish kiss. You can feel the impatience, hunger, jealousy and his love for you.

before he continues to make you out of breath, he snakes his hand on your nape to pull you closer to him to place a wet, but gentle kiss on your lips then stares right at your eyes.

"you're so pretty. do you know that?" he says under his breath that made your heart race. he seems pissed, and honestly his attitude today looks more attractive. he's very playful in nature, but the way he's so aggressive is not like him. and you love this side of him more.

"let me fucking eat you." he adds and changing his position, rubbing his palms over your bare thighs and already fucking you with his eyes.

your eyes moved towards Jaemin and he is sitting on the side of the bed, watching you closely. Haechan puts you down from his lap, pinning you down on the mattress and hovering on top of you, hungrily watching his prey caged in his predatory walls.

You are still in your dress and your heels, pushing your dress up to reveal your panty, he opened your thighs for him, giving a full display of your slightly wet core. he growls lightly, salivating by the view.

"damn, this pussy." he mumbles before giving it a slap, making you purse your lips together. Sliding down the panty slowly, he quickly licks the dripping slick and groans, making others curse under their breath. Their hard painfully restricted under their jeans.

Haechan almost went crazy for having a taste of your cunt. he always loved it. if he can, he will eat you all day. so he didn't waste a time to dive in and lap your cunt like a hungry animal. you whimper and legs slowly closing out of pleasure from the way he's eating you.

a hand then reaches over your knee to open them back. when you open your eyes, you see Jaemin. he's already standing at the edge of the bed, beside Haechan. His pink t-shirt is off already and he's left with just his boxers.

"keep them wide open, princess." he orders while his other hand palms his cock inside his shorts.

you can't even say a word or resist as your mind gets all fuzzy because of how good Haechan is making you feel. he giggles through your cunt making you shut your eyes, brows arching closer to each other. your face contorts out of pleasure. his hand rests at your thighs and massages it gently. you can feel a hand carding your hair, brushing it off your pretty face. The gesture and the love words whispering in your eyes giving it away that it's definitely Jaemin.

your eyes pry open when Haechan pulls away, whining loudly due to the deny of your orgasm.

"sorry, angel. but you are not going to cum so easily." Mark catches your attention. he's already near the bed too. when your eyes look at Jaemin, he's already taking off his boxers as he slightly drags you towards the corner of the bed. He dives his head and kisses you on your lips while fondling on your covered tits.

"keep the heels on." Jeno commands, before standing beside Mark, watching you with his predator gaze. "also, don't strip her off her dress fully. I want to rip it off from her." Jaemin nods, only pulling down the upper part of your dress, revealing the chest and a few faint marks still visible on your chest, Mark's smirk curls up on his face, imagining the steamy night he had with you last week when he imprinted his name on your body --- Mark.

Jaemin sucks your tits and pulls the perked-up nipples between his teeth, "uhm," you moan. he gives it a few more suck then tugs it lightly using his teeth as he pulls away, making you yelp.

"suck my dick, baby. let's get you busy." Jaemin mumbles and places his shaft near your face. "An agent is more capable of doing two jobs at once."

Haechan, then again continues eating you, making you squirm again. he pushes your thighs wider, doesn't giving you any chance to close it. he wants to take his time, eating and enjoying how you whimper in pleasure. the way you look pained, but he knew pretty well that he's making you feel so good.

"how's the view of my marks?" Mark nudges Jeno by bumping his shoulder, taunting his friend. The latter just glares in return. Your teary eyes catch their interaction but you the sudden intrusion of Jaemin's tip to your mouth gains back your attention on him. your perfect elegant and seductive make-up is getting ruined by their possessiveness over you.

your eyes closes when he enters his length into your mouth, making you choke when he hit the back of your throat. Jeno's dark eyes are darted at you while he sexily licks his lips, waiting patiently for his turn. It's taking everything of him not to get in between. he couldn't help but feel so aroused by the sight of his own friends using you.

he remains silent and just watch from the end of the bed. Jaemin narrows his brows when his cock reaches the inside of your mouth and tip hitting the soft muscles. it feels so warm and soft, something that drives him crazy.

You drive him crazy.

they are already crazy for you.

"fuck." he curses and started to thrust on his own liking.

while Haechan laps your pussy and Jaemin fucks your mouth, Jeno takes off his jeans. he positions himself on your other side then grabs your hand, intertwining his fingers with yours. He can't keep himself away from you longer.

"you aren't forgetting about me now, are you angel?" Jeno's taunting voice rings over your head and you mumbled something, causing vibration straight to the throbbing cock in your mouth.

"oh just like that, baby." he groans and continues pistoning his hips towards you. his dick twitches when he watches your messed up mascara and smudged lipstick, your messy hair sticking to your forehead, earlier it was so neatly brushed. that old man can't ever get to see this sight of yours. huh!

Mark and Jeno give a few strokes to their dicks before leaning to give you a kiss on the throat and chest as well. it lasted for a few more seconds until he pulls away so they can attain your bare and bouncing chest.

"oh, yeah. just like that." Jaemin mumbles as he watches you all occupied with them. He can swear he is loving the sight before him how all of them are using you for their own pleasure and of course --- pushing you more to your building up climax.

Mark cannot help but to feel very excited at the view. how your eyes are tear stained yet still do as they say. its giving a satisfaction he couldn't get from anything. he was certain you're the only one who can give it to him, to them. Their little agent is working so hard for them, he mentally chuckles.

Haechan bite your clit slightly and giggles mischievously while tongue buried deep inside your wet hole. his chin wet with your juices and his saliva. it was heaven for him to see you squirm uncontrollably because of pleasure.

"u-ugh! Please..." your mouth freeing the big dick to mumble the words that made him groan in pleasure, your hand too tightens around in Jeno's hold. it indicates that you are nearing your first release and they all couldn't wait.

"are you near, angel?" Jaemin asks, whimpering from his own pleasure.

you nodded continuously, slightly losing your mind at the climax you've been anticipating.

"i'm near too, baby. let's cum together." he groans and grind even harder, chasing you.

"give it to me, baby." Haechan fucks into your cunt using his two fingers, tongue attached on your hole, waiting for that sweet juice he's been dying for. "you have caught me. Agent caught the mafia member." He chuckles in the end.

Mark brushes your hairs off from your face, making sure to fist them so it won't cover your pretty features. he loves staring and watching you whimper in pleasure. beads of sweat forms on your forehead and his eyes travels down your tits bouncing slightly due to the effect of two males fucking you.

Jeno leans and puts your nipple inside his mouth, sucking and twirling his hot tongue on the tip, making you feel dizzy.

"nghhh," your thighs shakes and tries to move away from their abusive pleasurable touch but all of them hold you firm, making sure you have nowhere to go. sucking and taking all of your juices.

the sensation making your eyes rolls at the back of your head. Jaemin, too reaches his climax and shoot at the depth of your hot mouth, cursing and growling.

"such a good agent for us." he says and leans to give you a kiss on your cheeks. "pretty angel." he adds and places another kiss.

once done harvesting your cum, Haechan stands up and licks his lips with a grin on his face.

"get on fours." he says and grabs your hand to help you get up from laying down. he knew you're still in trance from the recent release. He loves to fuck you into unconsciousness.

Jeno gently press your palm to catch your attention. he arched his brows while glancing softly at your direction. Mark brushes your hair away and wiped off the sweat.

"you good, baby? Don't tell me you have just this in you." Jeno asks and helps you position yourself. you nod your head once, head still fuzzy. he chuckles, finding you adorable and kisses your shoulder once.

"you're so hot, y/n." Mark says and smacks your butt cheeks. you yelp slightly at the impact. it stings a bit but it oddly feels so good. Haechan groans and cupped both your butt and leans in to kiss it, spanking two times before staring at the red print left by his palms.

"calm down, Hyuck." Jeno chuckles and caresses your butt which he answered with a giggle. "we still are left to wet our dicks."

Jeno stands up, bringing his shorts down to bring his shaft in front of your eyes, "don't be greedy, okay?" he says and positions himself in front of you. "there's four of us and you need to give it to everyone." a small nod is what you gave him and he smirks, pinching your cheeks because he finds you cute this way. all submissive and sweaty.

Dom illegal mafia members with the sub government official agent.

"relax your muscles." Haechan says from behind and Jeno just nods his head, bringing his face closer to yours, "it will hurt this way. I know you feel scared but keep your trust on us and it'll be all good." Meanwhile, Haechan spits on your hole to make it lubed around to enter his dick.

you moaned the moment you felt he is pushing his dick inside of you, stretching you in the process. his thick veiny cock slowly disappears. just half of it and he's already going crazy. he missed this feeling. he missed feeling you around him, suffocating and taking all of his length.

"fuck, you're so tight." he groans and couldn't wait anymore as he did a hard thrust, reaching it deep.

your eyes widen at the sudden visitor making your mouth gap as well. Jeno took this chance to enter your mouth and he let out muffled curses because of how hot your lips feels around him. his brows narrowed closer to each other. if he is losing his mind feeling your warm mouth wrapped around his dick, then he is already insane after watching your fucked out face staring back at him.

"shit." Jeno curses and take his time rutting his dick over your mouth. he was fighting back not to go too hard as he wants to go slow. He is more aggressive when he is alone with you but this time, he is just taking his sweet time and showing his caring for you because the other one is not going to restrain himself.

on the other hand, Haechan is the opposite. he's going fast and deep making you see stars. you tried hard to keep on all fours, but you can feel your knees losing its strength, along with your arms. as he started to take it faster, making sure he's hitting every delicious places inside you, Jeno decided to catch pace with him. the room was filled with your moans and the erotic skin slapping sounds of your bodies colliding each other.

"i'm f-fucking close..." Haechan hissed and laid his tongue out sexily. Jeno smirks and gets more aggressive on using your mouth to chase his own orgasm. "me too." you moaned and tightens your cunt and lips when you felt your own climax approaching. Their breath became more heavy at the pleasure you are making them feel.

"fuck you feel so good like this, sweetheart." Haechan groans and slaps your butt then leans down to kiss your back, making sure to suck on the skin to leave a mark. "so good for me." he says, almost out of breath. "so damn good for all of us."

"our dirty little girl." Mark chuckles attractively.

and a few more deep thrust, Haechan released his hot cum inside you. Jeno throws his head back, cumming inside your mouth. the three of you are catching your breaths while he tries to catch your highs. your knees gave in and body collided to soft white sheets. Jaemin steps in, caressing your cheeks softly and made sure you're all right. "tired, angel?" he whispered, smiling while looking at your shut eyes and breathing heavily.

Haechan pulls out, some of his cum dripping out from your hole. he kneels down to see it more clearly and groans at the sight of it. he licks two of his fingers and slides it in your hole, shoving his cum back. it made you jolt and moan, feeling too much. he chuckles, "you did good for me, baby." his eyes a lot softer than before. he seems to calm down now.

"we're not done yet." Mark mumbles that you responded with a light groan. he ignores it and laid back at the side of you, where you are panting after the intense consecutive orgasms. "ride me, baby." he held your arm to guide you over his lap. you needed some help and the other boys were quick to assist you.

"too t-tired.." you manage to say. Jeno placed a chaste kiss at your cheeks.

"its okay, i'll do the work." Mark assures you.

you are not at the proper state of mind to respond or comprehend what he suggested. your mind is too clouded with pleasure and the overstimulation is taking away your capability to understanding anything.

"angel?" Jaemin gently calls you. tracing the lining of your sandle.

"hmm?" you hummed.

he chuckles, "can you handle both at the same time. is that okay?"

you can't even process anything. a nod is all you gave them. Haechan knows they didn't try it yet but he can't deny that he's also looking forward to it. he's so sure you'll look so alluring having both your holes filled.

"damn, so tight." Mark mumbles after sliding his index finger inside as a test. "Hyuck's mouth couldn't even make it loose that you are sucking my fingers so tightly." he pulls out his finger to line his dick with your entrance.

Mark slides his cock inside your pussy as Jeno puts the tip in front of your butt hole. your eyes slightly grow big and worry flashes your pretty face.

"h-huh?" you're about to look back when Jaemin cups your face. he smiles sweetly and kisses your lips.

"don't be scared, princess. we'll make sure you will feel good, okay?" his gaze too soft and hypnotizing. its not that you don't want it. for the past months that you've been under these boys, they've already corrupted you.

Mafias have corrupted the little agent. behind those innocent looking eyes you flashes them is the dark desire of having them all to yourself.

you are a corrupted official for them.

Jaehyun already said once, "I know your gazes are never pure, y/n."

Mark intertwines his fingers with yours, kissing the knuckles, "it'll be alright, baby." he smiles and squeezes your palms. His thrusts are restless from the start but you suddenly gets distracted when Jaemin cups your cheeks and pressed his alluring lips to yours, kissing you lovingly. His kiss always feel like he is taking all his time with you, he can have you till the end of the universe. Mark's thumb rubbing circle on your clit, making it impossible to hold back yourself and give in to Jaemin fully, your free hand grabbing Mark's biceps tightly.

Who thought that the campus crush is beneath you and you are riding his cock? None of those pretty girls got this privilege to be his --- but you still got him after playing the game of chase and catch.

Mark stops his action when you were about to hit the climax, oh he is in love with you whining out for releasing pleasure, he can edge you all day if that's how you sound like. "here i come, love." Jeno's low voice ringed from behind you and as he says, he pushes forward. "ugh," you groaned, hurting from the stretch. Mark starts to slowly fuck from below you, just to ease some of the pain you're going through. "i-it hurts..." your eyes starts tearing up.

Jaemin again leans in and attached his lips on yours, tongue messily dancing with each other, "I know but you need to relax for us."

"fuck, so tight..." Mark groaned, eyes shut from the pleasure of being squeezed inside you.

"her cunt is tighter too. keep going." Jeno's brows are narrowed from pleasure. the sting is still there, but it became more tolerable as the two dicks fuck you from below and above making out with you. eventually, they're sliding in and out smoothly, matching each other's pace. Haechan sits on the bed, pinching your nipples and taking one of your breasts inside his warm mouth, sucking it hard.

The sound of ripping of clothes echoes inside the room when Jeno tears of your dress away and hugs you from behind, dipping his head, biting down your shoulders and throat, fondling with your boobs.

"oh m-my gosh.." your eyes rolled at the back of your head from the intense pleasure you are having. you cannot describe it. the way their big dicks are drilling you are making you crazy, feels like heaven. And the mouths over your hot skin is igniting the fire.

"fuck." they cursed hardly as they fuck you in sync.

Jaemin salivates just by watching you getting used by them. you look beautiful. you look so hot. and you are his. you belong to them. "so good for us. such a good girl." Jeno mumbles into your ears, biting the lobe.

"you're so good, baby." Mark whispers and gets up to position himself in a sitting position to suck your breasts. you smile and moans, trying to keep your eyes open to look at him. your free hand reaches over his handsome face and cares it, "k-kiss me, Mark." his eyes darken and without hesitation he gives in to your request.

a few moments, they both came inside your holes together with you. both of your legs shakes and body collapsing on top of Mark, panting so hard. His lips are still on you, kissing you like that he can't give you up to anyone.

Jeno breaths in the crook of your neck, taking your sweet scent. Their dick still buried inside you, when Mark leaves your mouth to mark your chest, Jeno pulls your face closer to make out as he kept sliding his dick inside, fucking his cum back.

your eyes already closed and almost passing out. he kisses your cheeks and smiles.

"sweetheart?" Jeno calls out between his heavy breaths.

you didn't respond so he slightly pulls away to check on you. he saw you're dozing off so he smiled and kisses your cheeks gently.

"you are the best agent for us. So good. The perfect one.", he whispers. "I love you, sweetheart."

Mark pulls out and before going towards the bathroom for cleaning himself, he grabbed the towel from Haechan that he tossed and cleaned you. he leans over your face to kiss you softly with a warm smile on his face. "are you hurt? Was it too much? Just know I'll always love you."

You shake your head, "no." you manage to smile, "I know that. I love you too, Mark."

Haechan brushes away some hairs that sticked onto your pretty face, "I love you so much." he whispers.

"I love you too."

they never miss to reassure their care and love for you after intense sessions.

Jaemin helped you up into his arms, following after Jeno and he walks inside the bathroom where the warm bath is waiting for you. you groaned, "we'll just clean you before you rest, angel." he assured and gently placed you at the bathtub. you can feel your whole body aching, mind still fuzzy after what you all did.

Jaemin helps you sit on the bathtub, pressing a kiss on your forehead, "I love my angel so much." he takes off your sandal, he still wants to keep it on your naked body.

"I love my pretty boyfriend so much." You mimic his tone.

The steamy and messy night turns into warm, cozy and a night filled with you finding comfort in four pair of arms.

That's how you always imagined a life after returning from missions and you got it.

In the penthouse suite, the night is thick with tension. The lights are low, casting long shadows that dance across the room as you stand in front of a large mirror, carefully applying the finishing touches to your makeup. The reflection staring back at you is a vision of deadly elegance. The dress you've chosen clings to your body like a second skin, its dark fabric shimmering subtly under the soft glow. You adjust the strap of your stiletto, your movements precise, practiced. This isn't just another night out—it's a mission, and you've prepared for every possible outcome.

Behind you, the air hums with the presence of your boyfriends, each of them a force to be reckoned with. Taeyong, stands in the corner, his expression unreadable, his dark eyes following your every move. There's a heaviness to his silence, a weight that presses down on everyone in the room. He's seen you like this before, ready for battle, but it never gets easier for him. The thought of you getting close to another man, even in the name of duty, grates against his very soul.

"you are applying too much lipstick. You are not going on a date with him to impress." He glares at you when you smirk at him amusedly.

Jaehyun, always calculating, sits on the edge of the bed, his fingers steepled as he considers the plan once more. His sharp mind is usually focused on strategy, but tonight, it's clouded with something unfamiliar—jealousy. He watches as you apply a final touch of lipstick, the vivid color striking against your skin. He trusts you implicitly, but the idea of you using your charm on someone else ties his stomach in knots.

"you are enjoying making us jealous." Still just a smirk in reply  to him. he rolls his eyes at your attitude.

Haechan, with his tech-savvy ways, pretends to be engrossed in his phone, though his attention is anything but divided. He's monitoring the club's security feeds, but his eyes keep darting back to you, lingering on the curve of your neck where the necklace rests. He's always been the quiet one before missions, but tonight, he's struggling to keep his emotions in check. The thought of you playing a part that requires you to be anything other than his makes his blood run cold.

"if I see one inch closer than he should be, he is going to be dead."

You chuckle, "your loss. He is the source to get all the information."

Jaemin, ever the charmer, crosses the room to stand behind you. His hands rest lightly on your shoulders as he meets your gaze in the mirror. "You look stunning," he murmurs, but there's a sharp edge to his voice. His fingers trail down your arm, a possessive touch that speaks volumes. He can't hide the irritation in his eyes at the thought of you being the center of another man's attention, even if it's all part of the act. "but you are mine."

Mark is pacing like a caged tiger, his usual soft and calm demeanor replaced by frustration. "I don't like this," he mutters, more to himself than to anyone else. He's always been the calm-head, but often quick to anger, and the idea of you flirting with the target makes his fists clench. He wants to protect you, to shield you from any danger, even if it means defying the plan. "if needed, punch him."

"I know what to do." You roll your eyes.

Jeno, the most enigmatic of the group, stands by the window, the city lights casting a faint glow across his chiseled features. He's always been hard to read, his emotions buried deep, but tonight, there's a storm brewing behind those cold eyes. He doesn't speak, doesn't need to—his presence is a silent promise that no one will lay a hand on you without facing his wrath. He can't resist walking over to adjust the necklace around your neck, his fingers brushing against your skin as he whispers, "Don't forget who you belong to."

"I belong to you. Only to you all." You smile in the end.

You take a deep breath, turning away from the mirror to face them. The room is thick with unspoken words, the air heavy with their conflicting emotions. You know they're coming with you, that they'll be there every step of the way, but the tension is palpable. You move to each of them, a light touch, a reassuring smile, easing their worries with a confidence that you don't entirely feel.

"This is just another mission," you say softly, but your voice carries the weight of your conviction. "We've done this before. We'll do it again."

Their eyes meet yours, and though none of them are happy about the situation, they nod, each one silently promising to protect you, to keep you safe, no matter what it takes.

As you gather your things and head for the door, they fall in line behind you, a powerful force, united by their love for you and their determination to keep you out of harm's way. Tonight, the club will be your stage, and together, you'll play the parts you were born for.

After entering the car, your chuckle catch their attention, Jaehyun raises a brow at you in passenger seat, moving the steering wheel as he wants.

"if you all are really jealous." A mischievousness hinting in your eyes, "I'm ready for the punishment after we return."

"you are really our dirty little agent."

Taglist: @mymoodwriting @justhere4kpop @anyamaris @yeoobin @icchyi @jwnghyuns @piratequeen-queenofgames @dinonuguaegi @oreharuuu @hwanring @hyuukah @kazscara @aceofspadesbiofalltrades @nvdhrzn @meowmeeps @vtyb23 @haechansbbg @corneliarstreet [open!]

[pinknerines]

Hello! If you are stressed out by current events, fandom drama or people being assholes, I have a mission for you!

(I am making this for myself, but I hope it helps someone else too) First, do something to help the situation. This could be: Donate to a fundraiser. Reblog 3 posts talking about an issue you care about, bonus points if they contain links to helpful resources eg. a petition. Make your own post, include something creative if you can, like a drawing or catchphrase. Here’s the hard part: close your devices and look out a window, or even at the ceiling. Notice 7 things about your environment. Is it windy outside? Is one of the glow in the dark stars on your wall about to fall off? How many books are on that shelf? Now, try to ease your stress by: Making something. Getting some exercise. Crying in the shower. Punching a pillow. After that: distract yourself with music, a game, a conversation, a book, a movie. Your feelings from before will come back of course, let them do that. Whisper things you are angry about to yourself, or tell a friend. Sometime today: do something to help someone you personally know. Make dinner for your household. Send a nice message or a picture to a friend. Tell someone you appreciate them. Sometime this week: Go somewhere where there are always people milling about. This does not have to be a crowd, and it should have a good place to sit and people watch. Pick one or more of these options: (the aim of this is to ground yourself)

Sketch someone you see with interesting clothes, hairstyle or body language

Make up a story about someone’s life: Why are they here? How close are they with their family? How are they feeling?

Talk or wave to a stranger. Say hello, have a nice day, give them a compliment. Do something nice. Give some cash to a homeless person. Smile at a kid.

Find a tree and watch how the light interacts with the leaves and branches. Give the tree a hug, if you’re feeling brave. Tell it you care about it.

If you’re feeling up to it, tidy up your space. I feel so much better with a clean room. If you’re not up to cleaning, you could wash a couple dishes, pick up some rubbish, make your bed, or close your closet door so you don’t have to look at the chaos.

Now, do something nice for yourself. Get yourself a library book, a snack your parents never let you have, take a bath. Scribble all over an old assignment you did terribly on. Decorate a notebook, a phone case, a wall in your house. Idk, just do something you like. Then repeat the process at some point. Hope this helps someone!

Also, drink some water and eat something. I have not had lunch it is 3pm, and I haven’t drunk water in 2 days. Also brush your teeth. I am shit at brushing my teeth.

[helloparent]

How to Plan Orange Day Ideas for Preschool Children.

Preschools often organize themed days or color days to make learning a fun and interactive experience for young children. One such exciting event is "Orange Day," where everything revolves around the color orange. Planning and executing engaging Orange Day ideas for preschool kids can be a delightful experience for both teachers and children. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore creative ideas and activities to make Orange Day a memorable and educational event.

Understanding the Significance of Color Days

Color-themed days in preschools serve multiple purposes:

Learning About Colors: They introduce young children to different colors and help them recognize and name them.

Enhancing Creativity: Color days encourage creativity through art and craft activities centered around the chosen color.

Building Vocabulary: Children learn new words associated with the color and expand their vocabulary.

Stimulating Senses: Color-themed activities engage various senses, making learning a multisensory experience.

Orange Day Preparations

1. Announcement and Anticipation: Begin by announcing Orange Day a week in advance to build excitement among the children and their parents. Encourage children to wear orange clothes on that day.

2. Decorate the Classroom: Transform the classroom into a vibrant orange wonderland. Hang orange streamers, balloons, and posters. You can also display orange objects like fruits and toys to create an immersive orange environment.

3. Orange Snacks: Plan a special snack time with orange-colored foods like oranges, carrot sticks, or orange juice. Use this opportunity to teach children about healthy eating and the importance of fruits and vegetables.

4. Story Time: Select books with orange covers or focus on stories where the color orange plays a significant role. Reading stories is an excellent way to introduce children to the theme and create anticipation.

Engaging Activities for Orange Day

1. Fruit Tasting: Arrange a fruit-tasting session with various orange fruits like oranges, tangerines, and apricots. Discuss their taste, texture, and color. This activity not only teaches children about colors but also promotes healthy eating habits.

2. Orange Art and Craft: Set up art stations with orange paper, crayons, markers, and craft materials. Encourage children to create their orange-themed artwork, such as pumpkins, suns, or orange animals. Art and craft activities are not only fun but also enhance fine motor skills and creativity.

3. Orange Collage: Provide magazines and newspapers with orange images. Children can cut out these images and create an orange collage. This activity allows them to explore different shades of orange and develop their artistic abilities.

4. Orange Hunt: Hide orange objects around the classroom or playground and organize a treasure hunt. Children can search for and collect all things orange, which can include toys, stickers, or even small orange-themed prizes. This activity promotes exploration and observation skills.

5. Orange Playdough: Make orange playdough and let children mold and shape it into various orange objects. This hands-on activity enhances fine motor skills and allows children to express their creativity.

6. Orange Songs and Rhymes: Sing songs and rhymes related to the color orange. Encourage children to dance or move around while singing. Music and movement activities help develop gross motor skills and make learning fun.

7. Orange Show and Tell: Ask children to bring an orange object from home and share why they chose it. This activity boosts communication skills, encourages self-expression, and strengthens the connection between home and school.

Educational Benefits

Orange Day offers several educational benefits for preschoolers:

Color Recognition: Children learn to identify and differentiate the color orange. This is a fundamental concept that serves as a building block for understanding more complex ideas.

Fine Motor Skills: Art and craft activities improve hand-eye coordination, dexterity, and fine motor skills. These skills are essential for tasks like writing, cutting, and tying shoelaces.

Language Development: Storytelling, show and tell, and rhymes enhance language skills, including vocabulary, pronunciation, and comprehension.

Creativity: Artistic preschool activities foster creativity and imagination. Encouraging children to think outside the box and express themselves through art helps develop problem-solving skills.

Healthy Eating: Exploring orange fruits encourages healthy eating habits and teaches children about the importance of including a variety of fruits and vegetables in their diet.

Involving Parents

To make Orange Day more engaging and strengthen the parent-school partnership, involve parents in the celebration there are lots of school parent apps presented for school parent communication:

Costume Parade: Organize an orange-themed costume parade where children showcase their orange outfits to their parents. This can be a joyful and memorable event for both children and parents.

Parent-Child Activity: Encourage parents to engage in a simple orange-themed activity at home with their child, such as preparing an orange snack or creating an orange craft. This not only reinforces the learning but also strengthens the bond between parents and children.

Collaborative Decorations and Snacks: Invite parents to contribute orange decorations or snacks for the event. This collaborative effort creates a sense of community and shared responsibility for the children's education and well-being.

In Conclusion

Orange Day in preschool is more than just a celebration of a color; it's a holistic learning experience. It engages children's senses, promotes creativity, and helps them develop various skills while having fun. By planning an engaging Orange Day, Best preschools in India create memorable moments for children, fostering a love for learning and exploration that will stay with them throughout their educational journey. So, get ready to paint the day orange and watch as the magic of learning unfolds! Orange Day is not just a color day; it's a colorful journey of learning and creativity that leaves a lasting impact on young minds.

Originally Published by HelloParent.

[techieyan]

Unique and Engaging Mini Project Ideas for ECE Enthusiasts

As an ECE (Early Childhood Education) enthusiast, it can be challenging to come up with new and exciting mini-project ideas to engage and educate young children. However, with some creativity and a little inspiration, there are plenty of unique and engaging mini-project ideas that can help children develop their skills and spark their curiosity.

1. Sensory Bins: Sensory bins are a great way to engage young children in hands-on learning. These bins can be filled with a variety of materials such as rice, beans, water, shaving cream, or sand. You can also add different objects like small toys, letters, or numbers to make it more educational. Children can explore and play with different textures and objects, promoting sensory development and creativity.

2. Nature Scavenger Hunt: Take children on a nature scavenger hunt to explore the great outdoors. You can create a list of items for them to find, such as leaves, rocks, bugs, or flowers. This activity not only encourages children to be active and curious, but it also teaches them about their environment and the different elements of nature.

3. DIY Musical Instruments: Children love music, and what better way to engage them than by making their own musical instruments? Using everyday household items like empty cans, cardboard boxes, or bottles, children can create their own unique instruments. They can decorate them, experiment with different sounds, and even put on a mini-concert for their friends or family.

4. Storytelling with Puppets: Puppets are a fantastic tool for storytelling, and children love them! You can make your own simple puppets using paper bags, socks, or even paper plates. Children can use their imagination to bring the puppets to life and tell their own stories. This activity not only encourages creativity and language development but also boosts children's confidence in public speaking.

5. Building with Recyclables: Encourage children's problem-solving skills and creativity by challenging them to build structures using recyclable materials. These can include cardboard boxes, paper rolls, or plastic cups. Children can work together to build a castle, a spaceship, or anything they can imagine. This activity also teaches children about sustainability and the importance of recycling.

6. Cultural Exploration: Introduce children to different cultures and traditions by organizing a mini-project focused on a specific country or culture. You can have children create traditional crafts, try new foods, learn a few words in a different language, and even dress up in traditional clothing. This activity promotes cultural awareness and understanding among children.

7. Science Experiments: Science experiments are always a hit with children. You can find simple and safe experiments online or create your own using everyday household items. Children will love watching chemical reactions, making volcanoes erupt, or creating their own lava lamps. These experiments not only entertain children but also teach them about scientific concepts and critical thinking skills.

8. Cooking and Baking: Cooking and baking activities are not only fun but also teach children important life skills. You can have children help prepare simple recipes like fruit salad, sandwiches, or cookies. This activity promotes independence, and following instructions, and teaches children about nutrition and food safety.

9. Dress-Up and Role Play: Dress-up and role-playing activities allow children to use their imagination and creativity. You can create a dress-up corner with different costumes or props, like doctor's coats, firefighter hats, or chef's aprons. Children can role-play different scenarios, which not only promote imaginative play but also teach empathy and social skills.

10. Gardening: Teach children about plants, and the importance of caring for the environment by involving them in gardening activities. Children can help plant seeds, water and care for plants, and watch them grow. This activity teaches children about the life cycle of plants and instils a sense of responsibility and appreciation for nature.

In conclusion, there are countless unique and engaging mini-project ideas for ECE enthusiasts to try with young children. These activities not only promote learning and development but also create fun and memorable experiences for children. With a little creativity and some enthusiasm, the possibilities for engaging mini-projects are endless.

[gopalganjtech]

Vrindavan: A Spiritual Oasis

Exploring Vrindavan

Vrindavan is a town steeped in history and spirituality. As the childhood home of Lord Krishna, every nook and corner of this sacred place is imbued with divine significance. The town is dotted with temples, ashrams, and ghats that bear testament to the eternal love story of Radha and Krishna. A visit to the Banke Bihari Temple, which is thronged by thousands of devotees every day, is a must. The Shri Krishna Balaram Mandir, ISKCON Temple, and Radha Vallabh Temple are other notable places of worship.

The River Yamuna

The holy River Yamuna, flowing gently through Vrindavan, adds to the spiritual aura of the town. The numerous ghats along its banks, including the Kesi Ghat, are where devotees come to take a dip in the sacred waters to cleanse their souls.

Cultural Heritage

Vrindavan is not just about spirituality; it's also a treasure trove of cultural heritage. The town resonates with the sounds of devotional music, the aroma of incense, and the vibrant colors of traditional clothing. Every evening, you can witness mesmerizing aarti ceremonies at various temples.

Conclusion

Vrindavan, with its spiritual significance and profound devotion, continues to be a place of pilgrimage and introspection for countless people. The Pagal Baba Mandir, with its unique history and serene environment, adds to the spiritual tapestry of this sacred town. A visit to Vrindavan is a journey into the heart of spirituality, where you can explore the rich heritage of Hinduism and feel the divine presence of Lord Krishna.

[adarsh-910]

Gond Art: History, Elements and Stories

'Gond' comes from the Dravidian word 'kind,' which means 'green mountain.' Gond painting is a famous folk art form of the Gond tribal community of central India. It is a form of painting from the folk and tribal art of one of the largest tribes in India - the Gonds - who are mainly from Madhya Pradesh but can also be found in pockets of Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Odisha., The history of the Gond people is about 1400 years old. Mixed with a mix of mystery, patterns, colors and humor, these artworks reflect a modern psyche.

Elements of Gond Art

The untrained eye may confuse Gond art with Madhubani painting, Mithila distinct characteristics. The paintings use vibrant colors such as orange, yellow, blue and red and are made with artistically drawn lines and dots to bring them to life. Natural colors from various sources, like flowers, stones etc., are used to create these beautiful paintings.

Over the years, Gond artists have developed their own tools for working with various contemporary mediums and materials. They would first plot the points and calculate the volume of the images. These points will be connected to bring up an outer shape, which will then be filled with colors. Everything that comes to life is aesthetically transformed as they react to the immediate social situation and environment. The images are tattoos or minimalist human and animal forms which include chameleons, butterflies, elephants, cows, lions, fish, peacocks and other birds.

Though Gond paintings are centuries old, with time, this art form has gradually shifted from the mud walls of houses to canvas and paper. Apart from drawing inspiration from legends and myths, these paintings featured nature as their main subject. However, this painting style has other well-depicted subjects, including Hindu deities (especially Ganesha), the Tree of Life, and jungle scenes. With various motifs and design patterns, these paintings have attracted the attention of many people, including those from India, France, the UK and the US.

Stories and Symbolism in Gond Art

"Trees are of great importance in Gond art. For humans and animals alike – for animals and birds, trees are most important – to protect them from the sun in summer and rain during the monsoon season. Trees also provide nutrition and food," says artist Venkat Raman Singh Shyam.

The Ganja Mahua Tree tells the story of a Brahmin (high caste) girl and a Chamar (low caste) boy - when they fell in love, society did not accept them. So he renounced everything, went to the forest, and was later reborn as Ganja and Mahua trees. That's why it is said that Ganja and Mahua should not be consumed together because they can never be together.

Saja Tree: The Saja tree is worshiped by the Bada Dev (Elder God) and the Gond community.

Pakri tree: When new leaves bloom from this tree, the Gond community eats the greens made from these leaves, protecting them from many diseases and ailments.

Peepal Tree: The Peepal tree is where the deities (gods) reside, and thus, the Peepal tree is considered the most important.

Tamarind Tree: Tamarind tree also plays an important role for the tribal people as they use tamarind fruit for chutney and sell it for their livelihood. Many people of the Gond community set up platforms for the gods and goddesses under the trees.

Music in Gond communities

In the past, Gond artists were responsible for orally passing down the Gond kings' traditions through songs and instruments called 'Bana.'

They would invoke Lord Bada Dev on the saja tree by playing the flute and recording the genealogy of the Gond patrons in song. In return, they were given gifts of grain, clothing and perhaps even cattle or gold.

Similarities between Gond art and tribal art?

"Gond is similar to tribal art because tribals have their own stories as we do about creation, and they also make dashes and dots. Tribal art and Gond art have their connection because we are originally from the same continent of Gondwana from when there were only two continents, Gondwana and Laurasia. India and Australia came from Gondwana, and America came from Laurasia.

The performances, dances, rituals, and drinks they serve are similar to ours. Their surname is Marawi, while ours is Marawi. I spoke on the topic 'You are my brother, in you I found myself' at Monash University in Melbourne and the Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art in Brisbane." Gond master artist Venkat Raman Singh Shyam said.

Paints are usually derived naturally from charcoal, colored clay, plant sap, clay, flowers, leaves and even cow dung. That said, due to the lack of natural dyes, Gond artists have started using poster colors and canvas to paint.

The Gond painting resembles the Aboriginal art of Australia as dots are used in both styles to create the painting. There are different types of dots in both art forms. For tribal art, the points symbolize the field and dreams, while with Gond art, the shamans believe that particles of their bodies spread out into space to connect with spirits and create other bodies. It is an ancestral, poetic vision of the atom, joining the infinitely small into the infinitely large.

[tongkachiunit06part2]

Important Preps before creating a short film animation in Blender for FMP

1 Conceptualize your story: Start by coming up with a clear concept for your short film animation. This will involve thinking about the story you want to tell, the characters that will be featured, and the setting or environment in which the story takes place.

2. Write a script: Once you have a clear concept for your short film animation, write a script that outlines the story, dialogue, and actions of the characters. This will help you to visualize the animation and plan out the different shots that you will need.

3. Storyboard: After writing the script, create a storyboard to help you visualize how the different scenes will play out in the animation. This will also help you to plan out the camera angles, lighting, and composition of each shot.

4. Gather reference materials: Collect reference materials such as images, videos, and audio that will help you to create a realistic and engaging animation. This could include photos of real-life objects, sound effects, or even music.

5. Model and rig your characters: Using Blender, create 3D models of your characters and rig them so that they can be animated. This will involve creating a skeleton and assigning different parts of the model to specific bones.

6. Animate your characters: Using the script and storyboard as a guide, animate your characters by manipulating their rig and creating keyframe animations. This is where your characters will come to life and act out the story you have written.

7. Add textures and materials: Once your characters are animated, add textures and materials to give them a more realistic and detailed appearance. This will involve adding colors, patterns, and materials such as skin, clothing, or hair.

8.Add lighting and camera effects: Using Blender's lighting and camera tools, add lighting and camera effects to your scenes to create mood and atmosphere.

9. Render your animation: Finally, render your animation in Blender to create a final output that can be shared with others. You can export your animation as a video file or image sequence.

[mountainstory]

Leh Ladakh bike trip with mountain story

A Leh Ladakh bike journey is perfect if you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. The beautiful Himalaya area is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, from winter weather hills to narrow mountain roads which are just now being explored. You'll be trying to optimize each opportunity on your trip with Mountain story working as your guide.

Preparing for Your Adventure 

There are a few things you'll need to prepare before embarking on your Leh Ladakh bike trip with Mountain Story. For your journey, you'll need a sturdy bike, riding gear, and camping equipment first and foremost. The journey itself can be quite challenging, so make sure you're physically fit before beginning.

Mountain Story's guide will brief you on what to expect on your journey once you're ready to go. Also, they can assist you with any last-minute preparations and answer any questions you may have.

Exploring the Himalayas

Exploring the breathtaking Himalayan mountains is, of course, the attraction of any bike trip to Leh Ladakh. There are many great views to see along the trip, from rising peaks to twisty mountain roads.

Khardung La, one of the tallest motorable mountains in the earth, is one of the road's most well-known destinations. At an altitude of more than 18,000 feet, this total population has amazing views of the mountains and valleys surrounding. Also, you'll have the opportunity to explore the region's rich cultural heritage and go on a trip to Leh's historical monasteries.

The Pangong Tso Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake that runs for more than 130 miles, is another stop you can visit on your journey. You will never forget this site, which offers crystal-clear lakes and gorgeous views of the nearby mountains.

Making the Most  of Your Journey

The Leh Ladakh bike trip will be more enjoyable with a Mountain story as your guide. Their experienced guides can help you in exploring even the most hilly path because they have many years of experience exploring the area.

Mountain Story provides multiple services in addition to offering trip guidance to make your trip as pleasant as possible. This includes everything, from setting up your accommodation to providing excellent meals along the road.

Also, you can be sure that your trip with Mountain Story will be healthy for the environment thanks to their dedication to responsible tourism.

The opportunity to contact nature and the local culture is one of the nicest aspects of a Leh Ladakh bike vacation with Mountain Story. You'll be able to see the Himalayan region's naturally beautiful scenery as you ride across the tough terrain. Also, you'll get a chance to interact with people and explore their common clothes, foods, and music.

The goal of Mountain Story is to develop responsible and environmentally friendly travel, which includes working to reduce the negative effects of travel on the group's environment and culture. To try and ensure that the benefits of tourism are fairly distributed and that the local culture is respected, they work closely with the local people.

You'll also have the opportunity to contribute to the regional economy by buying handicrafts and other items produced nearby while on your journey. This is a great way to give back to the area and take home a one-of-a-kind travel memory.

If you're looking for a tour that's more personalized to your requirements and interests, Mountain Story also offers custom tours. Whether you have a love of wildlife, photography, or cultural history, their experienced guides can create a trip for just you.

In conclusion, 

Anybody looking to experience the amazing beauty of the Himalaya should consider taking a Leh Ladakh bike trip with Mountain Story. You can rely on them to give you a personalization due to their knowledgeable guides, eco-friendly tourism policies, and passion for providing an unforgettable vacation. So why are you still waiting? Plan your adventure instantly!

[saif-a2media]

Creative Critical Evaluation (ESSAY)

This product was a cultivation of four people working together and six months of planning, delays and schedules clashing which caused a lot of confusion between myself and the rest of the crew, but in the end we got it done and are quite proud of how the work came out, even having to switch between cameras as we did not always have access to a digital camera but we persevered and got the job done. 

Our product was to shed light on what some people experience, people who do not realize that they are hurting themselves by being with each other and really focused in on ‘toxic relationships’ which is a term used to describe a relationship which is ‘unfixable’ and the people in the relationship hurting each other. We wanted to challenge conventions as relationships and problems in a relationship are usually not shown and are traditionally supposed to be ‘private’ and that is due to the representation theory. This refers to how different people on television are represented, usually we are exposed to a happy couple which helps keep viewers happy and not exposing them to ‘sad and depressing’ content but through this product, we are able to show that there are two sides to everything, and since a couple's problems is shown it is considered showing them when they are ‘vulnerable’ , this shows that we are all human, we have our problems and it is nothing to be afraid of which is how we had tried to ‘flip the script’ and show that it is alright to have emotions and problems between one another. 

Our media product has the main theme and vibe of being ‘intoxicated’ as some people consider love to be a drug which is what we had tried to show, it could also be said that we wanted the viewer to feel ‘intoxicated’ because in some cases that is how people deal with their problems to numb either physical and in this case, mental pain. In the music video there were scenes which had a lot of strobe lights in some scenes and fast paced cuts within the video which suggest that the actors were ‘intoxicated. We also included scenes of the actress and actor smoking as well as close-up shots of the actress looking distressed and in pain which emphasizes that she keeps going back because she's ‘addicted’ to the drug which in this case is love. In a lot of our other media products, we have used dark colors which has purple and black, and these were used because the color black is supposed to suggest strong feelings of sadness or emptiness and the purple in this case is used to show mystery and uncertainty as that is what the actor is feeling in the video. The music we chose mentions the use of drugs and feeling uncertain about his relationship which was represented in both the video as well as the other elements of the product mainly clothes and in my case were the shoes, I had decided to design shoes for our product because it is an item of clothing that would be worn regularly which carries our brand around. The shoes themselves are purple with a scorpion near the heel because scorpions themselves have venom which can cause physical harm how a toxic relationship can cause emotional pain. It also shows how at first the signs of a toxic relationship are hard to spot, just like how a scorpion can be hidden in its natural environment. 

Our media product tries to be as immersive and entertaining as possible for the audience, for our video we had created a story of a toxic couple and their slowly deteriorating relationship as they start of as the traditional, ‘happy couple’ and as the video continues their relationship has more and more problems. We wanted to show our story, so our audiences are hooked in from the beginning to the end, we also used reception theory to our advantage which states that an audience member can either be passive and just absorb the information and do nothing with it, or they can be an active member of the audience which takes in the information and does something with it. It can be from rethinking feelings they have or even talking to their partner about their relationship, and this could be due to their own experiences or even their background. We wanted to show people who are going through a rough patch of their own that it is okay to have these feelings and that we are all human and that being in a ‘toxic relationship’ is a possibility and everyone deals with it in their own way. It also shows that it is okay to let go as shown at the end of the video through the actor burning photos of his past girlfriend showing that he has let go and is ready to walk away. 

The media product we have created is an attempt at ‘flipping the script’. As stated in the male gaze theory, in traditional media products in this case a music video, the big music industry companies are usually portraying males as being the dominant one, the male would usually be the focus of the music video as well as being the one with all the power, whereas on the other hand the women are portrayed as ‘weaker’ and is usually not the focus of the music video which creates a power imbalance within the music video due to media corporations following the narrative of the, ‘damsel in distress’. The way we challenged the norm is by putting more of the focus and emphasis on our actress giving her the ‘power’, as seen in the music video she is the one that initiates the fights, causes the problems and is the reason for our actor's heartbreak and by doing so we have challenged conventions of traditional music videos as we have shown throughout the music video showing how our actress is the main focus which is how we tried to portray her. 

Overall, this product has taken a toll on each and every one of us, but it was rewarding we had faced many problems ranging from the island shutting down due to mass floods which had also destroyed roads, as well as our actress being in another province which led to scheduling problems as well as not always having the digital camera which is seen in the difference in quality scattered throughout but overall the music video came together nicely and I have to give credit to all of the crew because without them we could not have conjured up such a piece of work. 

[tareyoabrumado]

ive been a lot happier making art since i stopped doing character art.

i was focused on making interesting ocs and their stories and drawing them to keep up with what everyone else was doing. i had one oc i focused on most strongly, and everyone else within the story was an afterthought to fill out the backstory. i still really love the character, dont get it wrong, but i realized over the development process that my favorite parts werent designing and drawing the character; it was the worldbuilding behind it:

speculative biology for nonhuman sentient organisms

language with no basis in existing languages (i developed my first conlang solely for this one character!)

environmental influences on a society's culture

linguistic and cultural barriers upon migration to a new world

practicality and structure of clothing and tools (i feel it reasonable to believe that all the clothes i designed would be easily sewn in real life) (also hair!! many of the hairstyles i designed could theoretically be done irl, provided the wearer had horns)

music and instruments and the arts culture within a society

it got to the point where i would look at the character and there would be so much going on, and yet very little in terms of a present-day storyline. ive since realised this character was just a vessel for all my other interests: linguistics, anthropology, biology, music, and physical crafts.

and i didnt even realize those were things i was that interested in! i knew i liked music, and i was on my way to a second language, but the technical linguistics really came out of nowhere (the biology was a huge surprise, given my apathy when learning it in school).

i havent touched the character in a long time. but im happy leaving their story where its at. they live out their life until they get bored, and then move on to something else, and so on. life goes on.

i got a little bit off-topic with this post. anyway. when i joined the art side of the internet, much of it was dedicated to character design and story. everyone was making intricate universes with overarching stories and detailed characters and relationships and developments; and rather than write books, they shared concept art in the form of comics, scene drawings, and character reference pages. i very rarely saw more traditional art: paintings of just. people and things. nothing exists past the piece. its nobody specific. because of this environment, somewhere in my head it was established that this is what art is these days, and to be an artist online youre expected to do character-based pieces.

so i forced myself into it. its what all my friends were doing, after all. social psychology says that you are your friends. they were all making fanart and of course, character-based pieces with extensive stories behind them. and i just couldnt figure it out. i thought there was some kind of social disconnect--wouldnt be the first time, as i seem to be the only one in my group who really doesnt enjoy playing any videogames aside from minecraft. i tried my best, and really enjoyed the process of building up my character and their backstory and homeland and culture and anatomy and dear god ive strayed away from the character themself. it never was about the character. it was about the messages i was trying to convey. everything that overshadowed the character was everything that was more important. i dont care if the design is too busy--look at all the ways a person could wear chains as jewelry!

i see the details in everything, and especially people. human bodies. nonhuman bodies. clothes and jewelry and hair and everything else. this made drawing very difficult. i wanted to detail every part of it. it became a too-realistic cartoon. i drew the seams in the clothes and the twists in the locs. i had to stop myself from drawing lines in the face. there are lines everywhere and once you notice them its impossible to ignore them. the one time i included lines and creases in the face (not nearly as many as i wanted to, but the minimum required to convey the expression and emotion), my friends said it looked weird. unfortunately cartoons and anime and character illustration have simplified designs, and every character is either young and smooth and beautiful or theyre old and wizened and wrinkled and never beautiful and often played for laughs or when the protagonist needs a mentor figure. for a person grappling with their own identity and physical existence, seeing these sentiments expressed so prominently is. difficult. people have a lot to them and its busy and not traditionally beautiful and complex and thats what makes them interesting beings.

character art is almost always digital in its final form. so that was my medium. i got by with the lineart-colorblock-shading-background setup that much of that kind of art shares. i began using a crayon-style brush for my lineart. i was always searching for a way to do a realistic oil paint style with my coloring and shading. i never found the perfect brush, so my art never turned out exactly how i was dreaming.

i thought i hated art classes. i thought i hated art classes. i thought i hated art classes. i was so trapped in the character-art funnel that nothing was to my standards and every project was shit.

i took two art classes this year to fill credits, one focusing on 2d art and the other on ceramics. neither was digital. neither was about characters.

in my pieces, i want to explore abstract ideas. i could just make a candle lantern with a cool design carved into it; or i could explore themes of what it means to be human. there is not a single character aside from vague representations of human beings. im in love.

for my 2d class, we're expected to keep a sketchbook. any art, so long as it's art. too many times ive filled a page with a drawing of a person. nothing exists past the piece. its nobody specific. and their faces are covered in lines. everywhere. eye bags, crow's feet, lines around the mouth and nose and chin, forehead wrinkles. necks.

they are people aging and they are beautiful. they are young people with decades under their belts and they are beautiful. they are people of every age and every life and they have existed physically enough for their bodies to recognize their physical habits. a testament to their living.

they are not smiling. but they have the crow's feet and the lines around the mouth and nose and chin and you know they have laughed many times before. they have lines between their brows and you know theyve felt worried about maybe one too many things. they have wrinkles on their foreheads and you know theyve felt surprise. everything is surprising. and interesting. and awe-inspiring. and beautiful.

we age and we change. this is a story everyone knows. people are often afraid, but then years later, theyre happier than theyve ever been. and they know it will only get better with time.

november 15, 2022