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rainbowmoonstonestories · 5 days ago

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Let Your Dreams Be Your Wings | Chapter 22

Chapters: 22/? Fandom: The Sandman (Netflix 2022, minor content from the Comics) Rating: Explicit Relationships Dream of the Endless/Morpheus x F!Reader Characters: Dream of the Endless/Morpheus, Lucienne, Matthew the Raven, Mervyn Pumpkinhead, Hob Gadling, Death, Rose Walker, The Corinthian, other minor Sandman characters, Original Characters. Warnings: 18+ content (minors DNI), explicit sexual content, POV switching, very long chapters to read. Summary: You always dreamed of becoming a successful Fashion Designer, sharing your creations with the world and making your father proud. But with him being very ill and so many costs solely weighting on your shoulders, things didn’t go as planned and you had to take a different path instead. An interesting offer led you to the elder Alex Burgess and you were hired as a new housemaid for a very good pay. However, your kindness and outstanding empathy convinced the man to give you an additional task for a doubled compensation; gaining the trust of Dream Of the Endless, held captive into the basement for over a century. Despite the shock of finding such an ethereal entity stripped of all his clothes and contained into a confined space, you had to accept for the sake of your father. But the more you got to speak to the mysterious anthropomorphic personification who didn’t utter a single word, the more you were lost into his eyes that, conversely, seemed to contain the entire universe. A deep connection formed between the two of you, separated only by a thick layer of glass.

Little did you know, what started like a simple housemaid job was about to change your life forever.

Credits: The moon dividers were made by firefly-graphics

Tagging: @number-0-iz, @emarich7, @jaziona92, @bridkesby If anyone else wants to be tagged in the next updates, let me know.

You can also read this on AO3 if you feel more comfortable!

Your wonderful vacation in the Dreaming came to an end as Morpheus bestowed gifts and boundless love. Upon arriving at Cape Kennedy, you learned that Lyta's child had already been born. Subtle changes had occurred in everyone's lives, unexpected transformations altering their paths forever. You, on the other hand, faced a tumultuous return to work, grappling with severe physical fatigue back in London.

Author's note: Hello! I hope you guys have been well. Here's another lengthy update for you. I recently realized that in the previous chapter, the name the Reader gave to the deer—Astra—is the same as the little girl Johanna tried to save and lost. This was initially coincidental, as I couldn't recall her name at all. However, it sparked a nice idea that I'll explain towards the end of the story. I didn't want to leave anything to chance, and since the name felt fitting, changing it seemed inappropriate considering all the research I put into it. Instead, I've found a clever way to explain this "glitch" in the narrative. It's not something huge plot-wise, just something that will justify the repeated name.

Now, this chapter delves deeper into the lore of Cape Kennedy's side characters, all of which I've created myself. I wanted to explore a few specific aspects here, as things might become a bit chaotic/dramatic in the next update. I need to ensure I've covered everything thoroughly.

Also, I'm currently revising the first chapters, improving the wording and adding some enrichment. While the story itself will remain unchanged, I aim to make it sound consistent and cohesive from start to finish. After returning to writing in 2022, I've dedicated time to studying and practicing, which has influenced the story's progression. It's hard to believe this fic will be two years old in December!

(The upgraded chapters haven't been uploaded yet. I'll edit each one as soon as they're prepared and ready for posting.)

Gazing at the magnificent Dreaming scenery before you, you heaved a sigh of displeasure. You were fully prepared—though not emotionally ready—to return to Cape Kennedy and depart from the enchanting realm of dreams.

It was absurd, really. You could visit Morpheus's domain every night in your dreams, and he'd even invited you to return physically anytime in the future. There was no logical reason for such despondency; this wasn't a permanent goodbye, after all.

Yet, as you contemplated going back to your normal life, a nagging feeling deep in your consciousness reminded you of the Dreaming's importance to your soul. Leaving it behind felt like bidding farewell to the most beautiful vacation of your life, your heart already aching for it before you'd even left.

Morpheus's arrival heralded your imminent exit from his world. As you turned to greet him, your eyes were drawn to a wooden box nestled in the crook of his right arm. Its intricate design lent it a substantial appearance, adorned with golden decorations reminiscent of your chamber's style and Morpheus' preference.

Curiously, you asked, "What is that?"

He stepped forward, cradling the box in his hands as he examined it. "This is a gift I have prepared for you."

"Another gift? Morpheus, you're truly being too generous."

He smiled, drawing closer to you. "You need only ask, and it shall be yours. All that you long for."

Overcome by a fresh surge of affection for this extraordinary being whom you cherished above all else, you gently cradled his face in your hands and brought your lips to his. The kiss was tender, yet laced with unmistakable determination. "And here I thought nothing could top last night's surprise."

You leaned in for another kiss, finding yourself unable to stop, lost in the moment with the man from whom you could scarcely tear yourself away. Morpheus seemed equally content, returning your kisses with matching fervor until you were both satisfied.

"Do you not you want to see it?" he asked teasingly.

Clearing your throat, you reluctantly detached yourself, taking a deep breath. "Yes, of course."

Instead of opening the box himself, he offered it to you expectantly. You took it with extreme care, almost afraid it might slip from your grasp and shatter. As you held it, you were surprised by how light it felt compared to its sturdy exterior. When you unlatched the front lock, a warm pulse of power emanated from it, tingling your fingertips and running down your spine.

You lifted the lid, revealing the contents nestled on a black velvet cushion. Your eyes widened in astonishment at the sight before you: a luminous pearl-white moonflower that glowed like a living lantern, a palm-sized amethyst crystal of the deepest, most mesmerizing purple, a small glass vial filled with sand— its cap tightly sealed with a thin cord, and a golden bangle that looked tailor-made for your wrist, its surface embellished with tiny, star-shaped crystals that glimmered brilliantly in the light.

"This blossom shall retain its ethereal beauty, forever in bloom, defying the laws of mortality even as it graces the realm of the Waking," he explained. "The amethyst, a stone of grounding, shall grant immediate solace upon your touch."

"What about the sand?”

"This sand, harvested from the very essence of your Dreamland, bears the same properties as that which resides within my pouch. It is a fragment of your dreams made tangible."

Morpheus's sand, granted to you as a gift…?

"Can I really accept this? Your sand is such a vital source of your power."

"Though but a mere fragment, I am confident in your discretion to safeguard it from unworthy hands."

"That goes without saying. I'll guard it with my life."

He raised his hand, gently brushing the box and allowing his fingers to meet yours in the process. "I have placed tokens of my devotion to you in this vessel of memories, eternal artifacts that shall evoke recollections of your stay in this realm."

Morpheus continued to surpass your expectations effortlessly, offering gift after gift without expecting anything in return. His boundless generosity left you feeling humbled and almost insignificant in comparison.

The bangle needed no introduction. Its aesthetic perfectly complemented the starry theme of the Dreaming while matching the bracelet your mother had given you. As you admired it, you eagerly anticipated wearing them together.

"This is beautiful," you whispered, gently closing the box and caressing its ornate surface. "Thank you, Morpheus. This means the world to me."

“Should you wish for anything else, I will provide it for you.”

You chuckled, shaking your head. "There's only one thing I'd love to bring home with me, but that's not allowed."

As you took his hand in yours, intertwining your fingers with his cool ones, Morpheus immediately grasped your meaning and responded with a subtle smile. "I shall be with you always, my love."

“I know.”

"Are you ready, my love?" Morpheus asked gently.

“No.”

His shoulders slumped slightly as he gazed at you with affectionate amusement. "Y/N…"

"Sorry, I'm kidding. Well, sort of. Maybe. Not really. But yes, I am ready."

Clutching the strap of your bag, you awaited Morpheus's magic. He gathered you in his embrace, his forehead gently touching yours as he closed his eyes, yours following suit instinctively. A gust of wind tousled your hair, accompanied by the soft swoosh of rising sand. You sensed your surroundings change, the Dreaming gradually fading into the distance, yet remaining forever tethered to you by an invisible thread.

As you remained motionless with your eyes shut tight, Morpheus called your name in a low, velvety voice. "Y/N."

“Mh?”

"We have arrived in the Waking World."

The familiar scents of Florida's natural environment and the subtle shift in ambient light confirmed your return to Cape Kennedy. Still, you found it difficult to release your hold on him, struggling to accept that the most unforgettable week of your life had come to an end.

It was childish, you reasoned, considering how much work awaited you in your waking life. You weren't truly separating from Morpheus or the Dreaming, but a part of you wondered if you could ever truly balance your existence between these two worlds, or if you were inextricably tied to just your own.

You were a mortal connected to an Endless being, with time's relentless march ever-present. Could you truly hope to make the Dreaming your permanent abode?

His lips grazed your cheek, his hands gently resting on your shoulders. "Do you intend to stand here indefinitely?"

“If I do, will you take me back?”

He tenderly caressed your jawline, leaning in to whisper in your ear. "My love, my heart longs to keep you eternally in my embrace. If only I could yield to such selfishness.”

With a resigned sigh, you finally opened your eyes to meet his countenance. "You could. I wouldn't complain."

He shook his head gently. "Whatever shall I do with you?"

"Everything." One hand clutched the memory box, while the other trailed along his chest, settling on his covered collarbones. "But I understand you have vital duties, as do I with my own responsibilities."

"Thank you, Y/N, for allowing me to bring you into my realm. Your devotion for the Dreaming is immeasurable, I cherish it with all that I am."

"The Dreaming is you," you said with a smile. "How could I not adore it?"

Every word you spoke to him, so honest and filled with humanity's most precious light, never failed to make him—the Lord of Dreams, an ever-darker creature—happier than he ever thought he deserved to be.

"I must leave you now, my love. Take heart, for I will seek you in your dreams.”

You nodded, letting your hand fall to your side. "I love you, Morpheus. You know that, don't you?"

"I do. And my love for you, my dear, transcends the very fabric of existence, encompassing all realms, both dreamt and waking."

He pulled you close for one last, lingering kiss before reluctantly letting you go.

"Ever the poet," you remarked with a grin. "Just one of the countless things I like about you."

"Are you attempting to keep me here with you?"

“Is it working?”

He let out a soft chuckle. "I am afraid not. But wherever you go, I will follow."

"That's enough, I suppose."

For a moment longer, you looked deeply into each other's eyes as a wordless understanding passed between you. Then, Morpheus's sand reappeared, rising from the ground at his feet and gradually swirling around his form. You stepped back, giving his powers room to work, as a cloud of grains swallowed him completely. In an instant, the sand twirled and dissipated, leaving no trace of Morpheus as he vanished back to his realm.

You exhaled, feeling a complex blend of satisfaction and wistful melancholy.

Hal's B&B stood just a few feet away. As you retrieved your phone from your bag and powered it on, you were astonished to find that barely a few hours had passed since leaving the hotel in Georgia. Morpheus had mentioned that time flowed differently in the Dreaming, but it was still mind-boggling to realize you'd spent seven days in his company, only to essentially travel back in time.

With a final loving glance at the box, you carefully tucked it into your bag and set off. The house's door stood unlocked, and as you entered, Hal's voice greeted you warmly as soon as you crossed the threshold.

"Welcome back!" He exclaimed enthusiastically. "How was the Cereal Convention? I heard it was brimming with fascinating events."

If only he knew the mayhem you had witnessed there. "Fascinating? That doesn't even begin to describe it.".

You wondered if the news had reported anything about the man who had taken his own life in the car, or if they had even remotely mentioned the rest of the cult, now cursed by Morpheus to a lifetime of regrets.

"I bet," he said mischievously. "Rose told me you got quite a pleasant surprise."

You blinked in confusion. "Pardon?"

"Come now, no need to be coy, sweetheart. You know secrets don't stay hidden for long in this house."

You realized Rose must have concocted a story to account for your absence. Whatever tale she had spun, you found yourself at a loss for how to navigate this unexpected situation.

“Well…”

"Your boyfriend showed up unexpectedly to pick you up, didn’t he? Now that's what I call romantic!"

Oh.

You had to admit, that wasn't entirely inaccurate. "You've caught me red-handed."

He graciously helped you remove your jacket as you clutched your bag tightly, guarding it as if it contained your most precious possessions, which couldn't be nearer to the truth.

"No wonder you look radiant. I'd recognize that glow anywhere."

"What can I say? He has a flair for dramatic appearances."

As you entered the dining room, you found only Chantal and Zelda at the table, their brunch plates cleared. An unusual hush blanketed the house, a stark departure from its typical bustling energy.

“Hey girls.”

“Good morning, Y/N,” Chantal replied cordially. "Zelda says hello as well."

"Where's everyone else? Have they not risen yet?"

Hal joined them, gesturing invitingly towards an empty chair. "Ah, you've missed quite a bit. You won't believe what's happened."

Taking a seat beside him at the table, you narrowed your eyes. "Nothing bad, I hope?"

"No, no, quite the opposite. You see... it's about Lyta; she's given birth."

Your jaw dropped so suddenly that you half-expected it to clatter onto the floor. How could Lyta have delivered her baby so quickly? Could her time with her husband in the Dreaming have stretched longer, similar to your own experience with the King of Dreams?

“What…?”

"I know. Crazy, right? Did you even know she was pregnant? I don't think Rose ever noticed either."

"I didn't," you replied. "It's generally not something you easily miss... though, I've read about cryptic pregnancies before.”

"Yes, but can a belly grow that big overnight? It wouldn't be the strangest thing I've seen lately, but…"

You pursed your lips, wracking your brain for a plausible explanation for such an extraordinary occurrence. Yet, try as you might, no rational justification presented itself.

"Rose and Jed accompanied Barbie and Ken to the hospital," Chantal interjected.

"We're heading there in a couple of hours,” Hal said. “Are you free? You're welcome to come with us."

You agreed without hesitation. "Absolutely. I've got plenty of time before my next appointment with Andrew, so I'm in."

"Great! We're all eager to meet the little one."

Despite the maelstrom of thoughts in your mind, you chose to set aside your confusion. There was little point in fixating on inexplicable events, especially since you'd come to understand that the Dreaming's magic and uniqueness often transcended conventional reasoning.

Eager to keep your mind occupied, you insisted on helping Hal with the cleaning, brushing aside his protests. After your ample rest, staying active appealed to you more than idling about in the living room. As he washed the dishes, you meticulously dried the tableware and set everything neatly in its place. Hal hummed random songs intermittently, his voice filling the kitchen with cheerfulness and positivity.

"So, this boyfriend of yours. Does he travel often?" Hal inquired, passing you a freshly washed glass.

"Mm, you could say he's practically omnipresent," you replied with a knowing smile.

"He must have quite an important job," Hal observed, his tone a mix of curiosity and admiration.

"It's vital, indeed. His work shapes the very fabric of our existence."

Realizing you had inadvertently revealed more than intended, you bit your tongue. Fortunately, Hal didn't seem inclined to pry further.

"I admire people like that. Those who can truly change the world."

"You have that power too, in your own way."

"I'm not so sure about that," Hal replied modestly. "Though I must admit, I'm finally considering selling this place."

Your eyes widened in surprise. "Really? You're going to sell your grandmother's house?"

Hal chuckled. "I've been thinking; dreams can really change your perspective. No matter how bizarre they get."

You gave his upper arm a friendly squeeze. "Whatever path you choose, I'm confident it'll be the right one for you."

"I haven't made any final decisions yet, but I'm now open to giving my career a real shot. Who knows? Maybe next year you'll hear my name as the greatest Broadway performer of all time."

"I can absolutely see that happening. You shine on stage, Hal. I'm sure I've mentioned that before."

The conversation flowed naturally, weaving through various topics, from Hal's future aspirations to your creative pursuits and life in London. Amidst the discussion, he brought up the unusual dream experience that he and the others had collectively undergone, featuring Rose and the Vortex in action. Remarkably, they all vividly recalled the events leading up to Morpheus's attempt to halt Rose's power, but none of them could adequately describe or explain why—or how—this dream had manifested for all of them at once.

His willingness to openly discuss the event with you, regardless of your apparent status as an outsider and his unawareness of your actual involvement, left you astounded. Although he intentionally kept his descriptions vague, they unanimously agreed that Rose had been rather special since her arrival.

You refrained from confirming or denying it. While the truth was irrefutable, you were reluctant to raise further questions about a girl who had already endured so much on her own.

The dream had left an indelible mark on each of them, sparking a self-reflection and personal development. Apparently, cracks had begun to show in Barbie and Ken's relationship, and Hal was confident it was only a matter of time before it crumbled completely. This revelation didn't surprise you, as you'd harbored reservations about Ken from your very first encounter.

As the late morning wore on, you carved out a private moment in your room. Seated on the bed, you gazed at Morpheus's gifts, a broad smile illuminating your face and a bright sparkle dancing in your eyes. You picked up the golden bangle, turning it over in your hands to look at its minimalist design. Despite its simplicity, it was one of the most beautiful pieces of jewelry you'd ever seen, with its diamond-like stars twinkling brilliantly in the sunlight. As you slipped it onto your wrist, you marveled at its perfect fit, neither too loose nor too tight. It sat snugly against your skin, complementing your mother's leafy bracelet perfectly, as if it were crafted specifically for this pairing. Considering Morpheus's particular attention to detail regarding your appearance, you realized that this harmonious combination was no accident, but rather a deliberate choice on his part.

You missed him deeply, craving his presence with an intensity that eclipsed even your need for breath. It was natural, given that you had been virtually inseparable during your time together, except for the brief absences he was compelled to make.

Still, you found yourself contemplating your relationship from a new angle, considering the prospect of deepening your bond with him. Was it even possible for a mortal to unite in marriage with an Endless?

Theoretically, given the universal rule that barred Nada from being his lover, you might conclude the answer was no. Nevertheless, Morpheus had speculated that your Goddess DNA could have shielded you from the dreadful fate his ex had endured as punishment for her transgression.

Ruminating on the matter excessively would only result in mental fatigue.

Shortly thereafter, you journeyed to the hospital with Hal, Chantal, and Zelda, feeling strangely fidgety since leaving the house. You couldn't pinpoint the source of your sudden unease, yet you were convinced it wasn't tied to any specific ill omen. There was simply an odd, indecipherable voice in the recesses of your mind, somehow linked to Lyta and the newborn child. You sensed that the baby's unusual conception, coupled with the Dreaming's essence flowing through its small body, had heightened your innate sensitivity, likely stemming from your deep affinity with Morpheus's realm and the Dream King himself.

Upon arrival, you found Rose and Jed already visiting Lyta and her newborn son, while Barbie and Ken waited patiently in the lobby for their turn. Barbie's characteristic cheerfulness and signature smile masked an entirely different story lurking behind her eyes. Ken appeared oblivious to her distress, his nonchalant demeanor indicating either genuine ignorance or—more likely—a callous disregard for her feelings.

Men like him were utterly contemptible, nothing more than walking deceptions.

The door to Lyta's room creaked open, prompting Barbie to spring to her feet and stride forward, Ken trailing behind. Rose and Jed emerged from around the corner, looking refreshed; their nightmarish ordeals hadn't been enough to break their spirits.

“My turn!” Barbie chirped, her laughter bubbling up.

"Prepare yourself," Rose noted with a smile. "He's pretty cute."

Ken exchanged a playful, masculine handshake and fist bump with Jed. “Oh, we are ready.”

From your seated position, you caught a glimpse of Barbie vanishing around the corner. Her voice dropped drastically, taking on a serious and resentful tone. “Uh, it’s one at a time.”

Ken's face fell, and you couldn't suppress a flicker of satisfaction. Bravo, Barbie!

“Wha… Oh, come on. Babe! Baby, it was just a dream!”

Glancing at Hal, you noticed he was equally captivated by the unfolding drama. "See? I told you," he whispered.

"Do I really want to know what he's referring to?" You asked.

"Oh, that he was caught being literally blown by another woman in his car? No, I don't think you want to know."

Your jaw clenched instantly. "Well, I'll be damned."

Chantal and Zelda, as composed as ever, exuded the aura of gothic countesses in their distinctive black dresses and veils. You'd grown accustomed to their dark appearance, finding them both incredibly beautiful and sophisticated.

Rose and Jed joined you in the waiting room, the girl’s eyes meeting yours with a silent understanding.

“How are they doing?” Hal queried, adjusting his position in the chair.

“Great,” she answered. “The hospital’s releasing them tonight and then we’ll fly home tomorrow.”

“Oh, so soon?” Chantal exclaimed.

Indeed, it felt as if no time had passed since you first met Rose. You'd grown so attached to her that it seemed you'd known her for years, not mere days.

“To New Brunswick,” Hal concluded. “How far is that from New York?”

“Mm, less than an hour. Why?”

“I don’t know, I had this dream last night and now I’m thinking, what if I sell the house and move back?”

Evidently, Hal's indecision about his future plans had dissipated, and his mind was now set on a clear course of action.

Rose's eyes lit up with delight, while Zelda and Chantal exchanged a meaningful look. Words were superfluous between them; Zelda's face, though usually expressionless except for her shy smile, conveyed all her companion needed to know with subtle nuances that only Chantal could interpret.

“We’ll buy the house,” she declared.

A collective gasp of shock rippled through those present, with Hal himself rendered speechless by such an unexpected announcement. The initial bewilderment quickly gave way to joyful smiles as everyone recognized how perfectly all the pieces were falling into place.

Your heart swelled with joy as you beheld the radiant expressions adorning the faces around you, a sight that filled you with an overwhelming sense of fulfillment.

As time wore on, Hal, Chantal, and Zelda took turns visiting Lyta and her unnamed newborn. Barbie's despondency had resurfaced, even as she tried to hide it from the others. Ken persistently badgered her to accept that he meant no harm, but any self-respecting woman would banish a man who dreamed of another straight to Lucifer's hell.

As you approached the vending machine for a drink, Rose excused herself and followed, clearly seeking a private conversation out of earshot from the rest of the group.

“Hey.”

"Hey," you answered with a warm smile. "How are you holding up?"

"I'm okay. I'm still a bit shaken when I think about everything that happened, but... Jed's here with me. That's all that matters."

"He's adorable, by the way," you commented.

"You should've seen him when he was five."

You cracked open your favorite caffeinated beverage, offering Rose one as well. She declined with a shake of her head, her eyes fixed on her feet, revealing a nervousness about what she wanted to say.

When she remained silent, you broke the awkward moment. "Thank you for covering for me," you said gratefully. "You didn't have to do that."

"Well, I figured they'd ask where you went. I wasn't sure when you'd be back, so."

"I must say, you're quite talented when it comes to coming up with excuses on the spot."

Rose laughed softly. "It wasn't easy. I also had to tell them Gilbert returned to his country due to an "urgent family matter."”

“Ouch.”

“Yeah.”

You leaned against the vending machine, sipping your drink as another silence settled between you. Rose crossed her arms, shifting restlessly with her foot—an anxious tic that only accentuated her growing discomfort.

You sighed, brushing a stray lock of hair from your face. "Rose, it's okay. Whatever you want to ask me, go ahead."

"I'm sorry. I don't mean to pry."

You shook your head reassuringly. "It's fine, really. I imagine you have quite a few questions."

"I hope I'm not overstepping, but... is there something going on between you and Lord Morpheus?"

While the question didn't catch you off guard, you considered your options. You could have lied, keeping your relationship with the Endless private and shielding your love from potential judgment. Rose had likely witnessed only the darkness surrounding the Lord of Dreams, unaware of the heart of gold it concealed; a heart heavily scarred from suffering and betrayal.

Ultimately, you decided against it.

A faint smile played on your lips. "Yes, Rose. We are together."

"Oh. Wow, I... I had a feeling, but..."

"You didn't want to jump to conclusions."

“Yeah.”She paused, collecting her thoughts. “It’s just… there's so much I don't understand. When Dream said Jed and I are ‘Children of the Endless’, what did he even mean?"

How could you explain it to her, considering her great-grandfather was one of the cruelest entities in the entire universe, willing to callously manipulate their own sibling and any mortal they came across?

"Is it related to the golden-eyed man Unity saw in her dreams?"

"I'm afraid I can't provide a definitive answer to that," you confessed, feigning ignorance. "In a way, you and your brother are very special, Rose. That’s all I know.”

She mulled over your words, clearly unsatisfied with the explanation, yet accepting it as sufficient for her current needs.

"He's not… really that bad, is he? Morpheus."

“No. He’s not.”

"I know he didn't really want to kill me. I was damaging his world without even knowing what I was doing. It was all my fault to begin with."

You gently touched her elbow, your hand warm against her skin. "You didn't ask to become a Vortex, it was just an unexpected twist of fate you didn't deserve."

"Yes, but I still hurt my friends. Lyta, Hector... even Jed, Hal, everyone around me."

Your hand slid along her wrist as you took her hand in yours. "It was the Vortex. Not you."

"But I was the Vortex. When Dream took Hector, I hated him. I thought he was a monster. Lyta was suffering, and I blamed him for it."

“And now?”

She hesitated, contemplating her response. "Now… I don't, really. It was harsh, but I was the one who set all this in motion. He did what he had to, I guess."

Your smile widened. “Rose…”

"And Unity," she continued. "She gave her life just to save me."

The pain she endured defied consolation, and a persistent guilt would likely shadow her for the foreseeable future.

"She was happy, you know," you revealed. "And very proud of you."

“Unity…?”

"I won't pretend to understand what you're feeling right now. The trauma you've endured is not something that can be easily erased. But I can tell you this: your great-grandmother is at peace.She made her sacrifice for you without any regrets.”

Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. Having weathered numerous losses throughout her life, Rose had honed the ability to remain resilient in most situations, a strength she maintained not only for herself but also for those she held dear.

“Thank you for telling me.”

Her voice quivered, and you pulled her into a comforting hug. She gratefully melted into your embrace, finding solace in the warmth she could no longer receive from her mother's arms.

“You’re welcome, Rosie.”

Lyta's baby was a true delight, innocent and tiny, with cheeks so soft they resembled the most delicate confection. You could feel the Dreaming's traces on the infant, yet to anyone else, he appeared perfectly human. The moment you drew closer, his little hand instinctively grasped your finger, awakening an unexpected maternal, protective instinct in you. Lyta simply smiled, observing how you'd make a wonderful mother someday, a comment you met with a nervous laugh.

The strange gut discomfort you felt vanished as soon as you left the hospital. You had the impression that something about Lyta was not ordinary, but you couldn't quite discern what it meant. Perhaps it was a consequence of your travel between the Dreaming and the Waking World, causing unusual perceptions as you readjusted.

That evening, Lyta and her newborn son were discharged as expected. While Hal finalized the house sale with Chantal and Zelda, you joined the group for a pleasant conversation in the living room, idly toying with your new bracelet as you slid it up and down your wrist. You thoroughly enjoyed your time at the B&B, appreciating the company of wonderful people (with one notable exception) who helped brighten Lyta's mood. The loss of her husband had left an indelible mark, and you admired how everyone tactfully avoided the sensitive subject, refraining from asking questions about the baby's father.

Barbie looked somewhat distracted, her face less vibrant than usual, a subtle alteration that seemed to go unnoticed. She maintained a facade of joy and vivacity, barely interacting with Ken, who sat uncomfortably close to you on the couch. You felt urged to speak with her, but that would have to wait for a more appropriate time.

Despite the tragedies and misadventures he'd faced, Jed was an incredibly adaptable and optimistic kid. His face beamed with smiles, clearly overjoyed at being reunited with his beloved sister. At some point in the evening, you engaged in an enthusiastic discussion with him about popular superhero movies and comics. Rose playfully teased Jed about how, under Gault's influence, he had impersonated a Marvel-esque version of The Sandman. Her lighthearted comment drew genuine laughter from both of you, and Jed rolled his eyes, insisting he had been incredibly cool and powerful in that form.

As night fell, everyone retired to their rooms. Lyta excused herself first, cradling her precious newborn away from the adoring eyes. Rose followed shortly after, and Jed was offered the vacant attic room, formerly Fiddler's Green's quarters.

Sliding beneath the covers of a bed that wasn't the grand canopy in the Dreaming felt oddly unfamiliar to you. You longed for the soft caress of your enchanted nightgown, the mesmerizing sparkle of crystals, and the soothing ebb and flow of gradient waves on the walls. It seemed paradoxical to long for a place you visited nightly, yet a strange void persisted inside you, like an emptiness you couldn't quite articulate.

With heavy eyelids, you succumbed to slumber, hoping to find Morpheus awaiting your return in the realm of dreams.

You felt weightless, adrift in an ocean of billowing fabrics that obscured the path ahead. Wandering without direction, you pressed forward into the unknown. A distant cry pierced the air, beckoning you closer. As you continued, the fabrics parted, revealing a crib in the distance. The surroundings were hazy and barren, bathed in an ethereal, blue glow.

The more you walked, the farther the crib seemed to get. No matter how hard you tried to reach it, it was as if you were walking on an infinite treadmill. The child inside was whimpering, pleading for you to arrive.

You pressed on, yet the distance remained unchanged. Anxiety constricted your chest, making it hard to breathe, despite the absence of any visible threat.

Then the crib began to fade, enveloped by a soft, nebula-like cloud, vanishing into nothingness. You were left uncertain about what you had witnessed, wondering if the baby represented Lyta's son or simply acted as a subconscious symbol; perhaps indicating fresh starts and possibilities.

Unable to decipher its significance, you endeavored to interpret the dream's significance to no avail. As the vision continued, your consciousness gradually reasserted itself, and you immediately transitioned into an entirely new dreamscape.

You stood in an expansive, surreal forest where trees spiraled upward like great pillars, their trunks woven from shimmering threads of silver and dark purple. The sky above pulsed with colors you'd never seen before—streaks of emerald, amethyst, and soft coral flowing and colliding like auroras. A gentle mist blanketed the forest ground, and as you moved, flowers bloomed beneath your feet. With each step, you ventured deeper into the woods, where strange, beautiful creatures drifted past in the mist, unusual animals with translucent bodies and magical eyes. You felt at peace now, as if this place knew you, welcomed you.

Whatever the crib represented, it couldn't be anything sinister.

The fog lifted, and your heart skipped a beat as you noticed a figure nearby. From the shadows between the trees, Morpheus emerged, his presence both distinct and seamlessly integrated into the scenery. Clad in black that melded with the night's darkness, he seemed to carry the very stars in his eyes and attire. As he approached, the dream's colors intensified, responding to him like a lover's touch.

Your breath itched as he stopped before you, his gaze soft yet filled with an intensity that only Morpheus could hold. You reached out instinctively, your fingers brushing his cool hand. He took it gently, as though grazing something precious. The bracelet he gifted you gleamed golden alongside your mother's cuff.

"Your dreams grow more beautiful with each passing night, in ever more resplendent tapestries," he murmured, his voice resonating through the forest.

A smile lit your face, and he pulled you close, his arms wrapping around you to bring you into his loving casing. You rested your head against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The dreamscape reacted again, a gentle breeze sweeping through the trees, sending petals into a soft dance around you.

"Every time I'm with you, I feel complete," you whispered.

Morpheus tilted your chin up, his thumb brushing your cheek as his eyes softened with a tenderness that was becoming more frequent. "Then let this moment last for as long as you're asleep," he said, his lips meeting yours in a kiss as warm and infinite as the dream itself.

You cuddled against him, sinking into the tranquility and depth of your connection, as the environment continued to pulse with revitalizing energy.

As you parted, he held your face in his hands, his cerulean irises tracing your every feature as though etching this moment into his memory. "I am bound to you, in dreams and beyond," he uttered genty. "No place, nor time, can keep me from finding you."

"Never cease seeking me. Please."

"Never, my love. And you, forever call upon my name, through the realms of fantasy and waking.”

It was rather striking to reflect on how Rose and Lyta had arrived in Cape Kennedy as a pair and were now departing the B&B as a quartet, a poignant example of dreams' transformative power. Their journey exemplified how the seemingly impossible can indeed materialize into reality.

Hal assured he would join them once everything was properly settled and his belongings were packed, ready for the grand opening of a new live show; the next chapter of his life.

While you couldn't reveal to Rose the book she'd one day write, you encouraged her to pursue graduate school, confident in her potential for extraordinary accomplishments. Your time together had been brief, yet saying goodbye to her tugged at your heartstrings. What had begun as a simple work collaboration in Florida had flourished into something far more meaningful; you'd cultivated new friendships that you hoped would stand the test of time, enduring long after this unexpected adventure.

In the blink of an eye, the house suddenly felt much emptier.

Throughout the day, you noticed Barbie's conspicuous absence from the common areas, rarely catching a glimpse of her around the house. Ken mentioned that Barbie was feeling unwell and had decided to recuperate in their room. The situation raised suspicion, especially since Ken seemed more intent on hovering around you in the kitchen, attempting to engage you in unwelcome conversation. Oblivious to your signals, he disregarded your curt responses and clearly disinterested tone, persisting in his efforts at dialogue.

"You know, I was thinking, you haven't seen much of Cape Kennedy, have you? I could take you on a tour one of these days."

You froze with your cup of tea suspended midair, staring blankly at him as Hal cleared his throat.

"I appreciate the offer, but I have work commitments," you replied, your tone icy.

"Ah, yes, of course. But maybe I could, you know, offer you a ride after dinner one evening?"

You felt utterly disgusted, the tea suddenly losing its flavor in your mouth. Ken's partner was confined to their room, claiming to be ill. But here he was, attempting to flirt with you behind Barbie's back.

His behavior was reprehensible. You abandoned your drink, pouring it down the sink and hastily rinsing the mug.

"Oh! What about dining out? I know a lovely restaurant by the beach."

Ugh.

You considered answering with more excuses to make him desist, but you knew such tactics wouldn't deter a man like him. Ultimately, you decided that a razor-sharp response was your only way out.

"Look, I don't think my boyfriend would appreciate your persistence. And believe me, he's not the forgiving type."

Ken's grin faltered, though he still tried to maintain his charm. "I was just—"

"You're asking me out while your girl is sick upstairs. How considerate of you."

Hal, clearly intrigued by the unfolding scene, became more attentive, his eyes fixed on the two of you.

"You may be accustomed to women fawning over you, but let me be crystal clear: I wouldn't consider someone like you even if you were the last man on Earth."

Ken stood frozen, his smile fixed and hollow, utterly speechless. He seemed incapable of formulating any coherent sentence, caught off guard by your blunt rejection.

"Now, if you'll excuse me," you said, turning on your heel and striding away.

Without looking back, you left Ken to contemplate your rebuff as you climbed the stairs, the kitchen falling into a telling hush. There was only one pressing matter you wanted to address now: Barbie. If Ken was failing to provide the care and support she needed, perhaps a friendly visit could lift her spirits more effectively than her inconsiderate partner could.

You recognized that Ken's intentions weren't specifically malicious, but his casual fantasizing about other women and viewing dates outside his relationship as normal proved he was incapable of full commitment. How Barbie had managed to tolerate him for so long was incomprehensible, but you couldn't help admiring her patience.

You paused before her room, knocking softly a few times, and waited for a response that never came. Though you surmised she might be asleep, an intuition whispered otherwise.

"Barbie?" you called gently. "It's Y/N. Are you all right in there?"

Soft footsteps padded across the floor, followed by the click of the door's lock. As it swung open, Barbie showed up, looking visibly drained. Her face, devoid of its usual makeup, and her refined clothes replaced by simple pajamas, presented a notable difference from her typical polished appearance.

“Hey!”

Her forced glee hit you right in the chest, totally unconvincing, with puffy eyes revealing recent tears.

"Hey. Is everything okay?" You inquired again.

"Yeah! It's just a headache. Nothing serious!"

You exhaled softly, your brow furrowing with concern. "Would you like to talk about it?"

"It's nothing, really! I just need some rest," she insisted with another artificial grin, her voice wavering slightly.

"Barbie, I know I'm still relatively new to you, and you might not feel comfortable opening up to me. But if you need anything at all, even just a listening ear, I'm here for you."

She looked at you in silence, her veneer of cheerfulness intact but slowly crumbling. Her smile faded, lips curving downward as her head dropped in defeat. “Would you like to come in?”

Relieved, you nodded. "If I may."

“Sure.”

She stepped aside, inviting you in. As you entered, the door closed behind you, cocooning the two of you in privacy. Barbie walked to the rumpled bed and sat down, patting the spot in front of her with the familiarity of an old friend at a sleepover. On one of the nightstands, an empty mug stood sentinel beside a few untouched, stale cookies.

"I hope I didn't disturb you," you said, settling onto the mattress.

“No, I wasn’t sleeping at all.”

"What's wrong? I promise you, anything you say will remain confidential."

Barbie let out a chuckle that quickly morphed into a sniffle. "I feel like I can't confide in anyone. People would think I’m silly for even considering this."

You moved forward, tentatively placing your hand on hers. "It can't be foolish if it's keeping you locked into your room."

She shook her head slowly, her eyes welling up as tears began to trickle down her cheeks. "Have you ever felt like you've lost something important, something that doesn't even exist?"

“What do you mean?”

She released a desperate laugh, a hysterical sound that bore no resemblance to genuine mirth. "I... I used to have this beautiful dream. I had many incredible friends, talking animals that cared for and protected me. Can you imagine?”

You offered an encouraging smile, listening attentively.

"My closest companion was Martin Tenbones, a creature resembling a giant dog... or whatever he was meant to be. You probably think I'm crazy, don't you?"

"Not at all. I'm intrigued and would love to hear more about your dream world," you replied warmly.

"It's hard to put into words. It wasn't just a fantasy, it felt like another life. A place where I could be more than just 'Barbie', but finally myself."

"You're speaking about it in the past tense..."

Her tears flowed more freely. "I’m afraid I can’t dream about it anymore."

Oh…

"Last night, I had no dreams. I know it may not seem like a big deal, but I can tell that something has severed my connection to that world.”

Having witnessed your own dream beach reduced to an arid desert, you deeply empathized with Barbie's attachment to her personal subconscious place. Yet, you were fortunate to be with the Lord of Dreams, who could easily restore it to its original splendor, perhaps even enhance its beauty. Morpheus guided you through the Vortex's perils, extracting you from the Dreaming before your link to it could be irreparably damaged.

“I had a mission, something very important to do. And now I’m lost.”

“Barbie…”

"Ken wouldn't understand," she said with a hiccup. "He never does."

You squeezed her hand comfortingly, warmth spreading between your palms.

"I'm sorry. I told you this would sound stupid."

"Well, it's not," you replied with conviction. "As someone who understands the significance of dreams, I can tell you that your sadness is completely justified."

“Really…?”

"Yes. And please, forgive my frankness, but what do you see in a man like Ken?"

Her lower lip quivered as she wiped away her tears. "Honestly, I don't even know anymore. I thought we were perfect together, as ‘cliché as it can be, given our names."

You shrugged. "Names are just names. I doubt that's why you chose him."

"No. He made me feel special, loved… but I fear that was only a beautiful fairy tale. I knew he enjoyed flirting, but this? It’s just too much for me."

You hesitated to disclose Ken's invitation, fearing it would only exacerbate her distress. Considering her fragile emotional state, you couldn't bring yourself to be so insensitive.

"You deserve far better than what he's giving you. I can see that plain as day."

"I don't know. Maybe I set myself up for this. I should have seen the signs."

"We all make mistakes, we're only human. I've certainly had my share of faults in past relationships."

Barbie's lips quirked into a genuine smile, her first in a while. "Do you think I can find someone who'll treat me like a princess in the real world, too?"

"Not a princess. More like the magnificent queen you truly are."

Barbie chortled, and you joined in, feeling the atmosphere in the room finally lighten. "I mean it. You're beautiful, fun, sweet, and open to imaginative possibilities. You don't need a knight in shining armor, real princesses are perfectly capable of writing their own happy endings. Ken doesn't realize how lucky he is."

She swallowed hard, brushing away fresh tears with trembling hands.

"This is your life, Barbie, and I can't tell you what to do. I just hope you'll make the right choice for yourself. That guy's a perfect idiot, too immature to see how amazing you are."

As you stood from the bed, she sighed shakily, drawing her knees to her chest and curling into a ball. "Y/N… can I ask you something absurd?”

“Of course.”

“Do you think I'll ever be able to dream again?"

As you opened the door, you glanced back at Barbie's huddled form. Without Morpheus' insight, you couldn't fathom the fate of dreamers severed from the Dreaming by the Vortex. Lacking this crucial knowledge, you found yourself unable to offer a concrete answer to alleviate her sorrow.

Nevertheless, your heart told you there was only one logical, compassionate answer.

“I’m sure of it.”

The moment you left her to her own reflections, Barbie silently opened the bedside table's drawer, rummaging for an object she had discreetly tucked between books. As she retrieved it, she stared at the rose quartz pendant in her hand, now cold and lifeless, its power inexorably spent.

She clutched the pendant to her chest, inhaling deeply before exhaling, her resolve crystallizing.

As your first week in Florida concluded, your collaboration with Andrew grew more intensive with each meeting. More briefs poured in, shaping the project's trajectory for its official launch. When the first prototypes emerged from the workshop, it became clear that additional revisions were necessary. You had to conced that some of your ideas hadn't translated from concept to physical materials as seamlessly as you'd hoped. Undeterred, you offered to refine the sketches, either by incorporating crucial missing elements or starting anew with concepts that seemed to spring effortlessly from your imagination. This time, Andrew's approval wasn't required; his expression alone conveyed that the newly sewn sets embodied the perfection he had envisioned.

Meanwhile, Ken avoided approaching you in the house, hanging his head like a scolded puppy and barely mumbling greetings in the mornings. The atmosphere grew tense as Barbie silently declared her breakup with him by moving out of their shared room and into Rose's and Lyta's vacant chamber. Unsurprisingly, Ken's futile efforts to win Barbie back were nothing short of ridiculous, every excuse failing spectacularly, as if he were hurling himself against an invisible, elastic barrier.

To compound matters, Hal—Ken's sole confidant—had finally summoned the courage to permanently leave. With newfound confidence, he was determined to reunite with Rose and her family, bolstered by his belief that he could make it on Broadway.

You had to admit, upon seeing Hal fully prepared with his suitcase and giant bag, he would likely be the person you'd miss the most in Cape Kennedy. Although Gilbert had quickly become your favorite (for reasons that now made much more sense), Hal had treated you like a best friend from the instant you emerged from Andrew's vehicle, seeing past your 'celebrity' status and addressing the authentic you with complete naturalness.

Moved by an irrepressible need to repay his kindness, you offered to create the perfect costume for his Dolly persona in the future, a gesture that made Hal's eyes sparkle with pure excitement. The prospect of wearing your design on stage made him feel like a star, and you eagerly anticipated seeing him perform for audiences worldwide.

As the days passed, the house grew more solitary, transforming into an unrecognizable place. Even Barbie decided to depart for New York by the tenth day of your stay, unwilling to endure Ken's omnipresence and compelled to rediscover herself through a new beginning. One by one, they were all witnessing their lives completely turned upside down, for better or worse, by the hand of Destiny. A fate that was clearly set in motion by the Vortex's influence, affecting their Waking World just as much as their dreams.

"Thank you, Y/N. You're a sweetheart," Barbie uttered gently, embracing you on the threshold. Her hug was so tight it nearly squeezed the breath from your lungs. "Let's keep in touch. I'd love to see you again sometime.”

"Absolutely," you said, gently rubbing her back. "Take good care of yourself, Barbie."

“You too.”

As the taxi pulled up, Barbie strode out of the house without a backward glance. Inside, Ken slumped on the couch, his face a portrait of total defeat. He knew, without a shadow of a doubt, that he had royally messed up, with no hope of mending the rift he had caused.

Barbie radiated a diva-like aura with her impeccably styled hair, flawless lipstick, and chic sunglasses that gave her the stunning look often adorning magazine covers. She waved at you, Chantal, and Zelda before entering the car, occupying the backseat with the grace of a regal swan. A large pink pendant hung from her neck, one she had never worn before, glistening and glowing under the sun.

In fact, it shimmered more brilliantly than any ordinary gemstone, causing your own necklace to suddenly warm against your skin. Before you could take a closer look, Barbie was gone, leaving her former home behind for an uncertain future.

You shook your head, dismissing that persistent feeling of déjà vu. Your attachment to the Dreaming was simply playing tricks on your mind, causing you to see things that weren't actually there.

Probably.

During your final days in Florida, you toiled relentlessly at Andrew's workshop, scarcely finding time to return to the B&B for rest. Chantal and Zelda seemed now solitary figures, quietly enjoying their drinks in the hushed house. Ken often disappeared into town, presumably in pursuit of a new conquest to seek solace in new companionship. Yet they looked unperturbed, their sweet smiles ever-present and nary a complaint voiced.

While they genuinely missed their friends, Chantal and Zelda were self-sufficient women who found complete contentment in each other's company.

On the eve of your return to London, you had another vivid dream. While the recurring image of a newborn crying in an empty, bluish space persisted, your nightly visits to the Dreaming were becoming increasingly lifelike.

Morpheus accompanied you on most of your explorations, walking beside you or standing amidst the evocative landscapes of his realm. He always welcomed you with the warmest expression the Lord of Dreams could muster, his subtle smiles illuminating his face at your arrival.

After much hesitation, you finally broached the subject with Morpheus about Barbie and how the Vortex had removed her from the Dreaming.

"Is there anything you can do to help her?"

Morpheus shook his head, giving you a thoughtful but firm response, rooted in his views on the purpose and temporality of dreams. “Each dream has its time, its arc, and its end. Her connection to The Land was severed as part of a larger design, one that is beyond any individual's desires, even mine."

Noticing your crestfallen countenance, he elaborated. “Dreams are both gifts and lessons, my love. They are there to guide mortals, but they must also be let go when their purpose is fulfilled. To restore it now would be to disrupt the path she must walk."

"So, she's unable to return to her dreams?"

"One day, perhaps. A dream is alive only when it meets the dreamer’s true need."

You averted your gaze, allowing his words to settle in your mind. After a moment, you turned back to him, your eyes glistening with emotion. "If I were severed from this world and from you, it would be unbearable. I can't imagine my life without the Dreaming, I would probably die."

Your words deeply moved him, though he tried to conceal it behind his characteristic gravitas. "You would not be disconnected from me, my love. Not truly. No matter the forces at play, I told you I would always find you, in dreams or beyond them."

He reached out to touch your face, offering comfort and promise, acknowledging your compassion and worries without dismissing them. "If ever such a fate were threatened, I would bend the realms themselves to keep you close."

Your smile returned as your fingers toyed with the lapels of his coat. "You would, wouldn't you?"

"Even the King of Dreams is not immune to the fear of loss," he admitted. "And you possess a unique quality that no other mortal will ever match."

"Are you implying that the Dreaming would suffer without me?"

"Not only the Dreaming. I am its ruler, yet above all, I am a being irrevocably bound to your heart."

That very heart raced with exhilaration, sending waves of warmth cascading through your body like a gentle fireworks display.

"You’re so sweet,” you expressed.

“Sweet?”

You tilted your head. "I know you're all powerful and mighty, and that 'sweet' isn't typically associated with you. But with me, you're so wonderful that I doubt any other being in existence could ever compare."

He grinned mischievously, his eyes twinkling with veiled intentions. “Perhaps I should remind you of my true nature, my love. As befits the King of Nightmares.”

You laughed, crossing your arms with a glint of curiosity on your face. "Oh? Is that a challenge? Because, Your Majesty, I'm not one to run away so easily."

For a moment, silence blanketed the space between you. The air grew still, charged with electric anticipation as Morpheus's posture shifted. An otherworldly darkness seeped into the scene, dimming the ambient illumination. Cold moonlight took its place, casting elongated shadows on the ground. The world around you transformed into a vast canvas, painted in shades of deep blue and ink-black, completely bereft of stars.

With a flick of his hand, Morpheus stepped back. The space stretched into an endless void, where whispered secrets echoed and your surroundings dissolved into an illusion of midnight sky. His form began to transform, subtly at first. His robes billowed like storm clouds, infused with silver strands that glinted like trapped starlight. His eyes glowed with pale fire, and his hair flowed freely, no longer tethered by gravity.

Despite the imposing figure before you, you felt no fear. In fact, the beauty of it—the raw, infinite greatness—thrilled you to no end and made you shiver in awe rather than terror. He embodied everything he claimed to be: powerful, enigmatic, and fearsome—yet he remained, undeniably, the man you loved.

He circled you slowly, his breath ghosting over your ear as he leaned in from behind. His voice boomed, almost demonic, though unmistakably his own. "So bold… and so fragile. Will you not bend and yield to your Lord?"

You recognized this as an enthralling performance, a thrilling roleplay that left you completely spellbound.

"You are magnificent," you breathed, your voice brimming with admiration and something else. "Truly, I don’t need to tell you how willingly I'd surrender to you. You already know."

His hands wrapped around your waist, strong and secure. "It seems," he said with a wry smile, "that even the King of Nightmares cannot dissuade you."

"Never," you replied, tracing delicate patterns on his hands. "Not when I know that you'd never harm me."

His dark and menacing guise melted away, replaced by a soft chuckle as he reverted to his normal form. The inky blackness dissipated, giving way to the previously vibrant colors of the dreamscape.

With a touch of reverence, he lifted your hand to his lips. "Perhaps," he murmured, "I shall remain 'sweet' for you alone."

You threw your head back, sinking against his chest as laughter bubbled from your lips. Your eyes sparkled with immense happiness and love. "Now I wish I never had to wake up."

For the remainder of the night, Morpheus granted your wish, keeping you blissfully ensconced in the realm of fantasies.

As you settled into your seat on the plane home, you went through a curious distortion of time. The fortnight in Cape Kennedy and week in the Dreaming had passed in a blink, yet paradoxically left you feeling as though you'd been away for eons.

You were exhausted, the jet lag evidently taking its toll on you. Readjusting to your regular routine proved unexpectedly daunting, as you had to deal with frequent migraines and an unsettling tendency to nod off at inopportune moments throughout the day.

You missed the friends you'd made, the cozy ambiance of the former B&B, and the tranquil Floridian nights that contrasted so starkly with London's bustling soundscape.

The newborn continued to make sporadic appearances in your dreams, but the crib remained just out of reach, its cryptic message undecipherable. Curiously, this recurring vision didn't unsettle you; upon waking, it often slipped from your mind entirely.

Upon returning home, you quickly established regular long-distance communication with Hal and Rose. They now shared a peaceful home as a family, along with Jed, Lyta, the baby, and an intriguing man—a friend of Rose's—who had seemingly won Hal's heart. Rose had finally submitted her college application and begun brainstorming ideas for her future book. Meanwhile, Hal was actively pursuing a career as a Broadway performer, eagerly anticipating news of a potential audition.

After carefully considering numerous options, Lyta finally settled on a name that perfectly suited her son: Daniel Hall.

Corbyn & Jones was busier than ever, inundating you with work the moment you stepped into the office. The company overflowed with orders and requests for new projects, which Ella presented as promising opportunities for the future. With the Fashion Show behind you and sales skyrocketing across online platforms, local stores, and social media, your friend decided to entrust you with an equally creative venture, one with the potential to become the company's crown jewel. Both figuratively and literally.

"Are you serious?" you asked, your eyes wide as you stared at her face in disbelief.

"I don't see why not. You've always had a passion for jewelry, and I distinctly remember you designing some back in high school."

"Those were just early experiments, hardly worth mentioning."

She grinned, casually tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "You used to say the same about all of your sketches. Yet here you are."

You sighed, massaging your throbbing temples and stifling a yawn. "Fine, you've got a point. But I'm wondering, are we really prepared to take on more work? It's not exactly difficult for people to find quality accessories from other sources."

"We've received numerous requests for jewelry to complement our products. It's a bold move, but we can't afford to ignore our competitors."

You brought your finger to your lips, contemplating. "I guess you’re right."

"Look, I know you've just returned from Cape Kennedy and haven't had a chance to catch your breath, I can see how tired you are. Still, you're the only one I can trust with this," Ella explained. "Whenever I scroll through my social media feed, all I see are the same products being marketed as 'exclusive drop collections' by different brands or influencers, simply because they're trending. I don't want to slap our name on a generic necklace, bracelet or ring and claim we made it. I want something special, something that only you can create."

Ella had always been fiercely competitive. Seeing an opportunity to make a real impact, her eyes lit up with a reinvigorated enthusiasm.

"I'm not asking you to do anything complex, I swear. You have an excellent sense of style, and you're very distinctive. You emanate this constant aura that's simply goddess-like."

You couldn't help but chortle, amused by the unintended accuracy of her statement. Whatever she saw coming from you was no longer a coincidence, now that you were aware of your true origins.

"I'll cover the material costs, and Oliver has connections that could help with soldering services and gem sourcing. Perhaps you could do some research? Visit a few places, gather inspiration, and compile elements you find appealing?"

As Ella elaborated, you found yourself increasingly drawn to the idea. You couldn't shake the concern about managing deadlines with yet another project on your plate, but it was worth a try if it meant outperforming competitors and surpassing market projections.

"I've already got a couple of places in mind for you to check out."

Your gaze drifted to your wrist, where your mother's bracelet and Morpheus' bangle gleamed under the artificial light. With these treasures as inspiration, you realized you might already possess the guidance needed to excel in this new endeavor.

“Fine, let’s do it,” you declared.

"Really? You're on board?"

"I mean, you're still my boss. We might be friends, but that's no excuse for me to slack off or neglect my responsibilities. Besides, you might be onto something here, and I'm genuinely curious to give it a try."

Ella slammed her hand onto the desk with such force that you nearly jumped out of your seat.

"Ha! Those businesses better brace themselves. We've got a secret weapon right here!"

"Come on, Ella. I'm hardly a secret weapon."

"You're the best thing that's ever happened to us. And to me, because I've found my bestie again. I'm absolutely thrilled to be working with you!"

You nodded, a nostalgic smile playing on your lips. "Right. Remember how we used to daydream about this when we were teenagers?"

"How could I forget? I always wanted to run my own company with you as my creative genius. You'd tell me it was too good to be true, but I never stopped insisting it was possible. And now, look at us!"

"Indeed, I was wrong. I must admit, I was quite the pessimist back then."

Ella rose to her feet, placing her hands on her hips with an air of confidence and satisfaction. "Yeah, and I definitely prefer this version of you."

"I could take offense to that, but honestly, I feel the same way."

“Yaaaaas! Slay!!!”

The office door swung open, and Oliver strode in, clutching a handful of papers. His eyebrow arched quizzically at the scene before him. By now, you were certain he'd grown accustomed to his wife's antics, yet the expression on his face was absolutely priceless, especially as he caught sight of her, arms thrust triumphantly skyward.

"What's all this ruckus?"

"Oops, sorry, love. Was I too loud?"

"I'd wager they heard you clear across the street," Oliver quipped, his lips quirking into a sardonic smirk.

Ella waved off his comment, taking the papers he offered. "Is this the list you mentioned?"

"Yes. I assume you've already informed Y/N about our new quest?"

"Indeed, I have. We were just discussing it."

Oliver pushed his glasses up his nose, turning his attention to you. "Given Ella's reaction, I take it you've accepted our proposal."

Your friend’s bouncing movements reminded you of a cartoon character, the passage of years only enhancing her comedic charm.

You gracefully crossed your legs, settling into the swivel chair with your arms and back comfortably supported, ignoring the looming fatigue and headache. "When do I start?"

Once again, you found yourself wandering through an unknown landscape, a twilight meadow bathed in the deep, velvety indigo of night. The profound quiet was broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves as you stepped forward, drawn toward a soft radiance in the distance. Fireflies danced around you, their tiny lights twinkling like celestial guides along your path. The air carried a mysterious warmth, a gentle weight that felt both calming and comforting, as if something unseen were embracing you.

As you moved closer, the glow revealed itself to be a single flower blooming amidst the grass, its petals as bright and sparkly as moon dust. Intrigued, you knelt down, extending your fingers. The petals pulsed with a gentle rhythm, reminiscent of a soft heartbeat. Your hands hovered over it, sensing the energy of something alive, tender and delicate, yet infinitely strong. A deep connection stirred, an instinctive awareness that you were being entrusted with something precious.

When you touched the flower, warmth spread through your palms, wrists, and elbows, life itself flowing into your veins. You closed your eyes, breathing in the faint scent of lavender and sweetness. An overwhelming tenderness rose inside your heart: a love you couldn't describe, a caring that was simply boundless.

A delicate whisper drifted through the meadow, a soothing voice that seemed to come from both earth and sky. "This light now belongs to you," it echoed. "Soon, it will flourish. And so will you."

The flower dissolved, sinking into your chest like a subtle pulse settling inside your heart. You tried to speak, but your throat constricted, silencing any sound. A thin layer of bright blue fog descended, and then you heard it again, the familiar cry of a child, the now visible distant crib beckoning you.

You attempted to rise, but were anchored to the grass as if you were a deeply rooted tree. Strangely, you felt no desire to resist or struggle. A flicker of concern crossed your mind, yet an underlying calm reassured you that there was no cause for worry.

This time, your voice emerged, speaking a single name, the only one that occupied your thoughts.

“Daniel…?”

The baby neither reacted, cried, nor moved. Suddenly, silence blanketed the scene, and everything around you faded into nothingness.

You awoke, the residual warmness from your dream still occupying your chest—a mysterious sensation yet to be understood. However, as comforting as it felt, the moment you pushed yourself into a sitting position, reality struck. You were drenched in sweat, your nightgown clinging uncomfortably to your skin. A wave of nausea surged from the pit of your stomach, twisting your face into a grimace.

You dismissed it as insignificant, attributing it to the minor anxiety that had followed you from the realm of dreams into the Waking World. The recurring presence of that child in your subconscious remained an enigma, leaving you uncertain about its nature. As Morpheus had explained, Daniel Hall's conception during Lyta's dreams forged an unbreakable bond between him and the dream realm. Could the newborn be reaching out to you in Morpheus' domain for some unknown reason?

Despite wracking your brain for answers, you were simply left with even more questions.

You tried to lie down again, pushing aside the bedsheets as you took deep breaths. Unfortunately, the queasiness persisted. Instead of easing, it grew more intense, significantly so.

And then you felt it, that dreadful urge to expel whatever was churning in your stomach. You leapt out of bed with lightning speed, one hand clamped firmly over your mouth as you raced to the bathroom. You despised it and fought to contain it, but whatever it was, it refused to subside on its own.

Unable to hold it back any longer, you hunched over the toilet, your body convulsing as you violently ejected the remnants of your dinner. The ordeal continued relentlessly until you felt completely hollow, as if you'd purged every last morsel from your system—intestines and all.

When it was finally over, you relished the relief, washing your mouth and face to rid yourself of the sticky residue of sweat on your skin and the acrid taste persisting on your tongue. Your abdominal muscles contracted painfully, as if you'd just completed an intense set of sit-ups at the gym.

Good lord. You felt like a wrung-out dishrag.

Whether you had eaten something bad or were experiencing delayed symptoms of travel burnout, you desperately wished for this nausea to leave you alone. It had ebbed and flowed throughout the night, barely relenting even as you left the house.

It was unusual, you rarely had digestive issues. Considering the whirlwind of your recent trip, flying to Cape Kennedy, physically moving in and out of the Dreaming, and then back onto the plane home again, it probably made sense that your body was finally feeling the strain.

Fortunately, you made it through your workday without a repeat of your previous night's disaster, successfully keeping your lunch where it belonged. You convinced yourself it was just a random occurrence, a fleeting ailment that would pass as your body naturally recovered.

You pored over your sketches and scoured your Pinterest boards for further inspiration. With an array of gemstone pieces and chains spread across the table, you let your creativity flow, crafting designs that were both unique and original. Ella desired something innovative, jewelry that stood out from the current market offerings, and you were determined to exceed her expectations.

The process was unexpectedly enjoyable and fulfilling, surpassing your initial skepticism. Your research and material acquisitions produced impressive results, with several of your creations already sent to the workshop for soldering and welding. Weariness was a constant companion, testing your resilience and mental focus over the following days. Nevertheless, a few stifled yawns and tired eyes paled in comparison to the joy of seeing your efforts appreciated.

Just as you were ready to forget about your mysterious illness, the nausea suddenly resurfaced one day as you walked out of the shower. It lasted only a few minutes before subsiding, allowing you to sleep without feeling sick or making another dash to the toilet.

Over a week had elapsed since your return, and with your appetite slightly diminished, you began to question whether your random symptoms were truly related to the trip and the tumultuous circumstances you had encountered in Florida. Ella and your colleagues appeared unaffected after your recent restaurant outing, yet you couldn't shake the suspicion that something on your plate might have caused potential food poisoning.

On the other hand, you wondered if this physical disorder was merely a result of exhaustion. Your father had noticed your pallor and evident fatigue, expressing concern about how unsteady you seemed on your feet. With the new jewelry project underway you'd been bustling about, visiting stores and different studios to source new supplies. You hadn't exactly been cautious, willingly pushing yourself far beyond your limits.

During your walk home from a fruitful excursion, you had to stop multiple times due to unexpected breathlessness and lightheadedness. These strange manifestations left you feeling disconcerted, as your body behaved in ways you didn't recognize.

Ultimately, you dismissed your condition as a mere stomach bug or something equally benign. You saw no reason to fret over what you believed would be a short-lived malady.

Yet, was it truly so insignificant…?

You hadn't seen Hob Gadling since before your trip abroad, and your work subsequently left little room for socializing. In spite of his persistent invitations for drinks, you regrettably had to decline repeatedly. Hob, true to his nature, remained incredibly patient and understanding, encouraging your professional growth while reminding you to prioritize self-care.

Finally meeting him felt like reuniting after an eternity apart. His bright smile was better than any medicine, his company one of the most precious things in the world. To be honest, you felt so sleepy and generally under the weather that you were tempted to reschedule. However, you knew that finding a better opportunity in the near future was unlikely.

"Are you sure you just want tea? You're not ordering anything else? It's my treat, you know."

"I know," you replied. "It's just that I've been feeling a bit off lately."

"Oh, is that so? Sounds like you might be burning the candle at both ends again."

"My job keeps me busy, but it's nowhere near as hectic as when I worked in Wych Cross. I can sit for hours without being called away."

Hob bit into a piece of tart, humming in response as he chewed.

"How are things going at school?" you inquired.

"Some students can be quite a handful,” he said after swallowing. “But you know how it is."

"You've become a role model for so many young people. That's something to be proud of," you observed.

"Well, when you've lived as long as I have, you inevitably accumulate quite a trove of useful experiences."

"It's not just your extensive knowledge that makes you awesome, Hob. You're intelligent, kind, and always attentive to those who need support."

"If you'd known me back in 1600, you might think differently."

"But I know you now, and I truly appreciate the man sitting in front of me."

His grin widened as he reached for your wrist, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Or maybe, I have the best influence right here."

"Oh, come on. You were already like this when we first met."

Immersed in the joyful atmosphere, you savored the shared laughter and companionship of a treasured friend. While you loved your creative job, having a day free from work finally gave you the chance to unwind and momentarily set aside thoughts of impending deadlines.

The afternoon progressed perfectly until an unexpected disruption occurred. As the waitress approached the adjacent table, a potent coffee aroma wafted through the room. The scent went straight to your head, compelling you to abandon the remaining of your tea as a sudden wave of sickness engulfed you all over again, reminiscent of a rising tide.

"Are you all right, Y/N?" Hob asked, his eyebrows knitting together.

"Yes, it's just... isn't this smell a little too strong?"

“What smell?”

“The coffee.”

Hob furrowed his brow in genuine confusion. He sniffed the air, taking a moment to analyze it. "I don't know," he said. "It smells like normal coffee to me. I don't find it particularly overpoweri—"

You abruptly sprang from your chair, weaving through customers and tables to reach the mercifully vacant bathroom. Stunned, Hob followed in your wake, gently rapping on the door and calling your name with apprehension. Curious onlookers paused their conversations to observe the scene, while the waitress craned her neck inquisitively.

You heard him, but couldn't respond. Doubled over and coughing, you felt your fluids rushing out uncontrollably. The malaise hit you with full force, dropping you to your knees as your body eliminated its contents a second time, leaving your throat raw and burning.

"Y/N, please say something. What's happening?"

Only when you were certain you had nothing left to expel did you open the door. A searing pain shot through your forehead, and the entire path from your trachea to your stomach felt inflamed, as if ready to burst from the inside out.

"I'm sorry about that," you mumbled, your voice hoarse. "I'm fine."

"That didn't seem like 'fine' to me. Would you like me to drive you home? I think some rest might do you good, Shortcake."

Completely drained, quite literally, you nodded silently and returned to your table. You gathered your belongings, leaving behind your dinks, unfinished and forgotten. Each step felt leaden and sluggish as you made your way to Hob's car, shrouded in a thick, uncomfortable silence. With a heavy sigh, you leaned back against the seat, shutting your eyes and clutching your bag's strap tightly.

"I'm so sorry," you apologized dejectedly. "I've ruined our outing."

"I'd rather see you feeling well than keep you out when you're sick to the bone. Why didn’t you tell me? We could have postponed it to another day."

You pouted. "I really wanted to see you today, though."

"And I want you to take care of yourself. I can't die, remember? I've got all the time in the world."

"I just don't get it,” you protested, your voice wavering. “I can feel fine for a few days in a row, and then suddenly I'm puking my guts."

"How long have you been experiencing these symptoms?"

"I've been feeling a bit strange since I landed last week, but nothing major, really. Just the occasional headache, fatigue, that sort of thing."

The car halted at a red light, its engine rumbling in the quiet street.

"You mentioned the coffee smell was particularly strong."

"Yes, I don't know why. I could not stand it."

“Mh.”

Noticing his unusual quietness and the contemplative look on his face as he mulled over your words, you narrowed your eyes. "Why?"

"Ah, it's nothing, Shortcake. I've heard there's some sort of stomach bug going around. You might have caught that."

The car resumed its journey, winding through the thoroughfares of London as you gazed out the window, your eyelids feeling impossibly leaden. “Yeah. Could be.”

Morpheus strolled through the library, his presence as ubiquitous as the tomes on the shelves and tables, as if they were fragments of his very essence. He returned the volumes borrowed from Lucienne: various dream records he'd examined to evaluate his realm's current state and its power's impact on the Waking World following the Vortex incident.

He scanned the spines of the books before him, striding along the rows of shelves with his customary regal bearing. A faint smile played on his lips, a testament to his renewed control, now bolstered by your unwavering support and endless affection.

His fingers glided along the leather bindings, caressing centuries—if not millennia—of transcribed stories. From across the library, Lucienne and Matthew's distant voices wafted through the atmosphere, lively and tranquil, signaling the full restoration of every fracture caused by the previous disturbances.

Morpheus experienced an unprecedented, profound sense of bliss and inner peace. After innumerable centuries of existence, he finally grasped the true meaning of being cherished, and his understanding of love had undergone a drastic metamorphosis. A human had taught him more in a brief span than eternity ever could, smoothing the sharpest edges of his being. You had believed in him when everyone else saw him as a monster, perceiving his past misdeeds as steps in his growth.

Little did he know that his newfound self-assurance was about to shatter in the face of an imminent revelation.

As Morpheus turned to depart for the throne room, a whisper from behind arrested his attention. A large, weathered tome jutted out from the long row of books, awaiting the Lord of Dreams to hold it. The Endless paused, pivoting slowly, and gazed at the book with surprise as he approached.

Its cover was pitch black, adorned with faintly scratched embroideries and devoid of any visible title. As Morpheus lifted it from the shelf, he was struck by its physical lightness, yet felt a spiritual weightiness emanating from it. Gingerly, he opened the volume, unsure of its contents. The title was emblazoned in large, inky letters on the first page:

Morpheus felt his blood run cold, his fingers turning even icier. He had heard of that name before, old tales circulating from one shaman to another, handed down to priests and storytellers until they remained nothing but a legend with no foundation. It was described as a book full of dire predictions, destiny itself written upon its pages, bringing forth catastrophic prophecies that were never proven.

Not once in his eternal lifetime had Morpheus encountered this book in the castle's library, or in any library, for that matter. He had long dismissed it as nothing more than a fanciful myth.

Its sudden appearance in the Dreaming could only mean one of two things: either it was a product of someone's vivid imagination, or it heralded an impending catastrophe. Morpheus dreaded the latter possibility, considering all that he and the Dreaming had endured over the past 106 years.

The second page lay blank, its rough, ancient parchment unyielding beneath his ethereal touch. He flipped it over, and the third one featured a Celtic-inspired illustration in black and gold ink, depicting a tarot-like tableau of a full moon reflecting on still waters, with a solitary female figure wading into the depths. In the center, a short paragraph had been inscribed.

Morpheus's entire form tensed as he continued leafing through the book, only to discover another image, a counterpart to the previous one. Instead of the moon, the sun now dominated the landscape. The same woman stood with her back turned, clad in a long gown, still traversing the vast ocean ahead. In the middle, another caption stood out.

Morpheus staggered, clutching the shelf before him for support. These images weren't unfamiliar; everything depicted on those pages represented only one thing—what he treasured most in the entire universe: you.

He pressed on, both terrified and desperate to uncover more. With each turn of the page, he saw more of you, and even himself, intricately woven into the written lines and painted details. The book revealed something he had never wished to know, yet somehow, deep in the core of his love for you, he had already foreseen it.

A once-distant fear, something he fervently hoped would never recur as it had in the past, now a tangible possibility.

As understanding dawned, Morpheus sank to the floor, his legs buckling beneath him. His chest tightened agonizingly, as if a hidden power sought to tear his heart from his body and destroy it. He was in agony, metaphorically shattered into countless fragments, as the mental image of you splintered like a fractured mirror, your radiant smile morphing into the deepest frown.

Sequestering himself in that spot, he read the enigmatic messages obsessively, only to conclude they portrayed the most unfavorable fate imaginable. One he was determined to protect you from, no matter the cost, even if it meant sacrificing everything you represented for him.

And for the Dreaming.

Mere moments ago, he was elated at the thought of having you by his side, bringing out the best in himself, shaped by your unconditional love for all that he was.

The next, his eyes closed, a solitary tear tracing a silent path down his pale skin at the devastating prospect of what he had to do for your sake.

I'm sharing this for reference, so you have a clear image to associate with it; the bangle Morpheus placed in the memory box is essentially like this one. I purchased it online recently, and it reminded me of The Sandman and my fanfiction, so I've decided to include it. ✨

What did Morpheus find in the library just now??? 😱 😶 🙊 😭

Also, if you're wondering what I suspect you're wondering, the answer is… it could be either yes or no. 😏

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Chapter 22 (currently reading) Go to Chapter 23 (coming soon) ->

#the sandman #dream of the endless #morpheus x reader #dream of the endless x reader #the sandman netflix #the sandman fanfic #lydbyd chapter 22

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watchmegetobsessed · 2 years ago

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❄️HOME THIS CHRISTMAS❄️

A/N: hope you uys have been having an amazing christmas so far! for this fic i want to say special thanks to @futurecherry !

WORD COUNT: 5.6k

SUMMARY: Harry Styles is back in town and all eyes are on the two of you, because everyone knows how much he broke your heart when he left.

MASTERLIST | SUPPORT ME!

This fic is part of ❄️ FANFICmas 2022 ❄️ Read more about fanficmas here!

You always thought the saying ‘talk of the town’ wasn’t real, not in the way movies loved to portray. The whispers behind someone’s back, the stares, the looks, it all seemed way too dramatic to be real. Right until you became the person it happened to.

December is by far your favorite time of the year. You hate to be a cliché, but it truly is the most wonderful time of the year. The town turns into a cozy winter wonderland, every shop and home is decorated, lights are guiding the way through the streets you know better than the back of your hand, the smell of mulled wine and hot chocolate puts a spell on you every time you walk past the square in front of the town hall, there is nothing that could ruin this time of the year for you.

Or so you thought. Because the returning of Harry Styles just made you the talk of the town and ruined the festive mood for sure.

Who would want to step out of the house just to see everyone looking at them with pitiful looks, whispering about the poor girl who now has to face the guy who broke her heart? No, that’s not even expressive enough to describe what Harry did to you when he left town five years ago, never even looking back to see the mess he left behind him.

Word spread across town fast when he was first spot at his mother’s house, picking up some old stuff of his. Mrs. Cromwell saw him through her kitchen window. She phoned Mrs. Adler who was just about to leave to the grocery store. She told the news to everyone she ran into and in a matter of hours everyone in town knew that Harry was back.

Including you.

It’s been a week since the first sighting and your life has turned upside down since then. Everyone wants to know what you think about his return, how you’re doing now that you can practically run into him anywhere and anytime.

Well, you’re already over that.

The first meeting went just as awkward as one would expect. He came into your bakery on a Tuesday afternoon, you were shocked to be face-to-face with him at first and he seemed just as speechless as he stared back at you while everyone else around you were dying for the scene to unfold.

When the two of you recovered, the conversation went something like this:

“What are you doing here?”

“I’ve moved back.”

“No, what are you doing in my bakery?”

“I came to see you.”

“But I don’t want to see you.”

“Can we talk? Please?”

“No.”

And with that, you rushed back and locked yourself into the closet sized office for an entire hour. He was gone by that and so you ignored the curious stare of your employees and carried on like nothing happened.

Since then, you’ve been avoiding him at all cost and you realized you can do that the best if you just never go anywhere. His return is nerve wrecking enough already, but he has managed to ruin your favorite time of the year for you too. You can’t enjoy the Christmas market, the decoration, the festive vibes because every time you step out you’re afraid you might run into him again.

You’re convinced you wouldn’t survive it.

Looking at him last time was painful enough, mostly because you clearly see the version of him you were in love with and who broke your heart and left without looking back. You could notice the changes on him, his hair, his face, it wasn’t the same and yet… you were still stuck in the past.

There’s just way too much hurt in you after what happened, lots of questions and even more anger towards him that you’ve kept bottled up all these years and you fear you might snap if you have to face him again.

“Are you gonna hide in the back today as well?”

Willa, your student cashier gives you a look as you walk past her when you finally arrive in the afternoon. She’s been working for you for almost a year, she’s trust-worthy and very hard-working, but she also has a tendency to speak her mind quite openly. She is never afraid to call you out when you’re acting ridiculously.

“I’m not hiding,” you hiss at her. “I have… some billing… stuff to do,” you mumble and you wonder how you got to the point where a seventeen years old girl is telling you off when you were supposed to be her boss.

“Whatever you say, boss,” she shrugs as an elderly woman walks in and she busies herself with serving her.

“Kids these days…” you mutter under your breath before locking yourself up in your office.

Running your own business luckily usually has your hands full when you’re at the bakery, so you forget about Harry’s existence as you dive right into work. Unfortunately, it seems like today won’t be the day when you can escape through work.

“Boss?” Willa appears at the backdoor right after you finished a call with one of your suppliers.

“What’s up?” you smile at her, but then see the worried look on her face and you just know already what this is about. “Don’t say—“

“He’s here. Asking for you.”

“Damn it,” you groan, burying your face in your hands. “Tell him I’m not here.”

“That’s not gonna work.”

“Why not?”

“Because I already told him you’re here.”

“Fuck,” you whisper. “Okay, then tell him—“

“Or maybe you could just talk to him.”

Harry’s voice startles you. You both look at him, he’s standing a few feet away from you and you feel heat rushing through your veins, which is kind of useful since you’re not wearing a coat and it’s quite freezing out here.

“I’ll be… in my spot,” you hear Willa say before rushing back inside, leaving you alone.

“I’m sorry, but I’m really busy and whatever you want—“

“I want to talk, Y/N. You can’t just avoid me forever, I live here now.”

“The town is not that small, we can just live next to each other without crossing paths.” You turn to head back inside, but he grabs your hand and pulls you back, the sudden touch of his hand on your skin sending jolts of electricity through your whole body. You yank it back as you turn to face him.

“Y/N, don’t you think we should at least just talk it over?”

“You wanna talk? You wanna talk about how you fucked me over? How you broke my heart and left me when I needed you the most? How you said you’d love me forever, but you didn’t even love me enough to stay when I put all my money into starting a business and a life here?”

“Y/N—“

“I never wanted to do it alone! I explicitly told you that I don’t want to go into it on my own and you said you’d be here and that we could do it together. And then you lost your mind, said you can’t handle being tied down here and that you needed freedom. You threw me away like you didn’t promise me forever a million times before. So you want to talk about that?”

Your sudden outburst is a surprise to the both of you, but it also feels liberating to unload it all.

“I think we are way past the talking phase, Harry. You wanted to leave, me and the town, whatever! You can do whatever you want even if it destroys other people. But don’t be surprised when said people don’t want you in their life.”

This time he doesn’t try to stop you when you storm back inside. He doesn’t come after you either.

You think about your encounter nonstop for the next few days. He is all you think about and you hate him for that. You also ponder whether you were way too harsh with him or not, but you always get to the same conclusion. Your words do not compare to the pain he caused you when he left.

The twenty-third is the last day the bakery is open, but seeing the heavy snowing in the morning you ring in to tell the shift that you’ll be in soon and they can leave early, have the rest of the day off. It’s a little past ten when you arrive, you help them close and prepare the place for the few days off. You stay after everyone is gone, doing some last minute paperwork and barely even notice how time flew by.

And how much snow has fallen.

“Shit,” you mumble under your breath when you see the whole street covered in inches of fresh, white snow and it’s still heavily falling. The wind has picked up too, it might soon turn into a whole storm so you better get going.

You parked down in front of the bakery, so you easily get in, but as you try to start the car, it refuses to do anything.

“Come on, come on!” you groan, turning the key in the ignition over and over again, but it wouldn’t start. You’re forced to walk home, which means about 45 minutes out in this weather.

You zip up your jacket, pull your hat on and brace yourself for freezing to death before getting out of the car and you just start walking, hoping for the best. The first few steps are not that bad, you let yourself believe you’ll be home in no time, but by the time you reach the corner, you’re thinking about just turning back and waiting for the end of the snowing in the bakery. You’re eyes are watering up, but the cold wind is practically freezing it onto your cheeks. There’s snow everywhere, your feet are slipping on the ice underneath the fresh snow and you know it’s just a matter of time until you land on your ass.

And then a car pulls up beside you.

“Y/N? What are you doing out here?” Harry calls out over the passenger seat.

“Having a grill party, what do you think?” you scoff, pulling your jacket tighter around you. “My car died.”

“Get in, you’re gonna get pneumonia!”

“No thank you, I’m totally fine!” you stubbornly say and start walking again.

“Y/N, please! I’m not letting you walk home, you’ll never make it on foot!” He drives slowly beside you as a harsh wind blows right into your face, almost pushing you off your feet. “Just get in the car!”

You clench your jaw as you think about your choices: freezing to death on your way home or spending a few minutes in a car with Harry to get home safely. It’s a hard one.

“No talking, okay?” you say as you get in his car, the warmed up seat immediately melting up your frozen muscles.

“Okay,” he nods as he starts driving, but the silence lasts for about five minutes. “You really thought it was a good idea to walk home in this weather?”

“Where’s the no talking?”

“I’m sorry, but you just… You’ve always been so stubborn, it’s good to know you’re the same,” he chuckles softly, but it just gets your blood boiling.

“I’m not the same and you know nothing about my stubbornness. Now would you just drive me home and not talk to me like you promised? Though promises don’t mean shit to you, that I know.”

Your words cut like a knife, but at least he goes silent. Staring out the window you watch the snow fall, it’s unusually thick, you haven’t seen anything like this in years around here. It mesmerizes you so much you don’t even notice where you’re going, only when Harry kills the engine and you see an unknown building instead of your home.

“What? Where are we?” you ask, looking around, trying to see what part of town you’re at but you can’t make out because of the snow.

“My place,” he answers.

“Why? I don’t live here, take me home!”

“Y/N, your home is another at least fifteen minute drive from here, but I can barely see the front of the car in the snow. Just wait it out at mine and then I’ll take you home.”

“Hell no! I’m not waiting for anything!” you protest.

“I bet Clement Road is already blocked, we wouldn’t even make it to your place!”

“You planned this whole thing out, didn’t you?”

“What?” he chuckles in disbelief. “Oh yes, I ordered the snowstorm and killed your car too.”

“Wait, you did?” your eyes widen. “I-I mean the car, did you do it?”

“Oh my God, Y/N, I did not!” he throws his hands into the air. “I did not mess with your car, I was coming from my grandma when I saw you. Now please just be rational for a minute and wait until the snow stops. I promise, I will take you home as soon as the roads are drivable.”

You hate to admit that he is right, that it’s your only and best choice if you don’t want to walk home and freeze to death. So, true to your stubborn self you get out of the car without a word and march up to the front door of the house he parked in front of. Moments later you hear him get out of the car too.

“The no talking rule still applies,” you mumble under your breath as Harry keys the two of you into the townhouse. He nods, pushing the door open and lets you go inside first.

It hasn’t processed that you’re now entering his private space, a place that’s his home, but you’ve never been to. He was still living with his mum when the two of you dated, you knew that house like the back of your hand, it was a second home to you. You haven’t been there since the breakup.

“How wet are you?” he asks and your eyes snap wide.

“What?”

“Your clothes,” he adds with a cheeky smirk hiding in the corners of his mouth. “How wet did they get? Do you want a change?”

“Um… My pants are kinda saggy. And my socks.”

“I’ll get you a full change. Make yourself home,” he says, before disappearing down the hallway.

For a few seconds you don’t move, feeling odd to be here, but when you recover, you wander into the living room that’s on the right from the front door, looking around curiously.

He still hasn’t packed out fully, there are a few boxes lying here and there, but the place looks cozy already and most importantly a lot like him. You see pieces of him everywhere, decors and furniture that just screams Harry, or at least the Harry you know from years ago.

He returns with a pile of clothes in his hands and he has already changed as well into sweatpants and a shirt.

“Here, the bathroom is on the left, throw your wet clothes into the dryer. I’ll make us hot tea.”

He hands you over the clothes and his signature smell hits your nose right away, nostalgia washing over you as you nod hazily and leave to the bathroom. You strip out of your wet clothes and put on the sweatpants and shirt he gave you and suddenly you’re back in time when you used to spend days without end at Harry’s and you had to wear his clothes because you’ve run out of yours. You loved stealing his hoodies and shirts, they felt like his warm embrace, but now… it confuses you.

Walking out you hear him on the phone and judging from the conversation, it’s probably Anne. He has put the kettle on, two mugs set on the kitchen counter as he stands by the window, staring out while talking to his mother. You don’t want to invade on the private conversation, so you return to the living room and snoop around a bit.

What caught your attention first thing when you walked in is the fireplace. He used to tell you about how much he wanted one so he could drink tea and read in front of it. You wonder if it’s what sold him the place when he was looking around.

On top of the fireplace there are a bunch of memorabilia, picture frames, gifts he has gotten over the years. It wouldn’t be that big of a deal, but as you scan over it, you find more and more things that are connected to you.

First there’s a candle you bought for him after a fight as your peace offer. Then there’s a photo framed from Anne’s birthday, it’s got her, Harry, Gemma and you on it. The more photos you look at, the more you’re met with yourself. You would have never expected him to showcase any pictures that has you in it, but he clearly doesn’t mind looking at you every day. Reaching into the little wooden box that sits on the left edge of the fireplace, you find movie and theater tickets, most of them he used with you on dates. He has a whole stack, probably with every movie and play you two have seen and there are a lot.

“I kept them all.”

His voice startles you, you were so busy snooping around you didn’t notice he finished his call. Shutting the lid of the box you turn around and fold your arms over your chest to stop you from touching anything.

“Why?” you question.

“Because they are memories. Good ones.”

He sets down two mugs on the coffee table, hot tea steaming from them, but they get ignored as he walks up to you and grabs the box. Digging into the tickets he grabs one and hands it over to you.

“Do you remember this?”

Taking the piece of paper you look at the title. It’s from the old cinema in town you used to go to almost every month. They always had some of the old gems playing and you loved having the experience of being in the movies, watching a film that can’t be seen elsewhere.

This particular ticket was for The Breakfast Club, one of your biggest favorites. You missed the few times they played it in the theater and you were bummed. So Harry got them to add one more date, on your birthday. It was the sweetest thing someone has ever done for you and you’d be lying if you said it doesn’t fills your chest with warmth.

It’s a happy memory you share with him.

“I remember it. Yeah,” you say, clearing your throat as you hand the ticket back, knowing you have it saved at home too.

“You’ve seen that movie so many times, you were mumbling the lines next to me,” he chuckles, as he places the box back.

“Why do you have all these?”

“Told you, they are good memories,” he shrugs, ignoring what you really meant by your question.

“You shouldn’t be holding onto them,” you shake your head, taking a few steps away from him to put some distance between the two of you.

“Why?”

“Because you left me,” you snap at him. “These memories weren’t good enough for you to keep you here. With me.”

Spite is dripping from your words, words you’ve been meaning to get off your chest, but you kept them buried deep inside you.

“Y/N, I didn’t leave because I didn’t want to be with you or because I wasn’t happy.”

“Oh, so you just woke up one day and decided you had better things to do?” you scoff.

“Jesus, would you stop belittling our relationship and my feelings for you?”

“Feelings?” you can’t stop yourself from laughing. “What feelings did you have that made you leave me, huh?”

Whenever you thought of having this conversation with Harry you imagined yourself staying calm and collected, not letting him show how much he hurt you, but you’re more like a deranged mess.

“I panicked, Y/N, okay? I was… I was young and for a moment I felt like I was running out of time. I was wrong, but by the time I realized, it was too late.”

“Trapped? You felt trapped in our relationship? Well, that’s just great to know.”

“I had no reason to feel like that, it was a momentary craziness. Have you not gone through that? Have you never questioned your decisions before?”

“Of course I did, but I didn’t move across the country or left behind the people I said I love.” It’s a hit below belt, but you can’t help it.

“I made mistakes, I’m human! But I’m here to make things right!”

“And what’s that supposed to mean?”

“That I’m here to earn your forgiveness. I hurt you, caused you a lot of pain and I want to make up for that.”

“That’s very noble, but I’m not a partner in that.”

“I’m not asking you to take me back, I know I fucked up big time. I’m just trying to do the right thing and earn your forgiveness.”

“Stop saying that!” you growl.

“What?”

“That you want to earn my forgiveness!”

“But it’s the truth!”

“You wouldn’t need my forgiveness if you loved me enough to stay!”

“Would you stop refuting my feelings?!”

“Don’t lecture me about your feelings! I’m only seeing the facts, that you didn’t love me enough not to leave! So if you want to get me to believe you still love me and want me back, I can assure you, it’s not enough now! You left me when we had so much at stake, when I spent all my money on a business we were supposed to start together! I was all alone, I lost my lover, I lost my faith in a future we planned together! If you loved me, you wouldn’t have done that!”

“You think I don’t love you?” he raises his voice, clearly short on his patience as well.

“Oh, I know you don’t!” you scream at him.

For a few heartbeats he just stares at you and you have no idea where this is about to go. Then, without a word he storms back into his bedroom and you stand there, stunned with your chest heaving.

When he appears a few moments later he is carrying a big cartboard box. He throws it to the floor in front of you and opening he reveals a big collection of… everything that has anything to do with you.

“I kept every tiny thing that reminds me of you. Everything! All of our polaroids!” He grabs the dozens of photos the two of you took over the years and throws up into the air like confetti. “I have every gift you gave me, every clothes you got me, everything!”

He keeps throwing things out, laying them in front of your feet as you stare at him with your lips parted.

“These,” he continues, holding up a stack of papers, “are letters I wrote to you since I left. Over eighty letters, Y/N! Every time I wanted to run back to you begging for you to take me back, I remembered that you probably hate me, so I wrote you letters I never sent!”

He throws the letters into the air too and you watch them fly around in the room as Harry stands up.

“Wanna know why I still have these? Why I’m here? Why I came back? The only fucking reason I came back?”

Blinking you feel a tear rolling down your cheek.

“Why?” you whisper.

“Because I love you! I never fucking stopped loving you, Y/N!” he screams at you and this time you. “And if I have to spend the rest of my life paying for what I did to you, I will fucking do it, because you’re my everything and I would rather atone forever than live a moment knowing I didn’t try everything to make up for what I did!”

He’s breathing heavily and so are you. The intensity of the moment is swallowing you in whole and you feel like you could just collapse any moment. His confession has broken everything you’ve built up in you in the past years and now as you stare back at him, you go fully blank before…

You move before you could even think and Harry mirrors you the same moment, the two of you meet halfway and unite in hard, demanding kiss you’ve fantasized about so many times, beating yourself up about it.

You lose every ounce of self-control, you both do. Everything you do is so primal, just wanting to fulfill this burning need inside you for each other. You push against Harry, fingers grabbing onto his hair hard while his hands dig into your waist, he is making you walk backwards, stumbling and stepping on his letters and polaroids, but nothing matters.

It’s tug of war as you head to the bedroom without stopping the hungry, almost violent kissing and you tear your clothes off of each other as if they were poisonous. When he presses you against the wall at one point, pushing his erection against you, a loud cry bursts out of you, grabbing onto him even more desperately.

By the time he throws you onto the mattress you’re naked and he’s ridding himself of his last piece of clothing. You moan as you see his hard cock springing free, begging to be buried in you finally. He climbs on top of you and the weight of his body presses you into the mattress heavenly. You don’t even notice that you’ve started crying as you cling onto him as if your life depended on it.

He stops for a moment, brushing the tears off of your face.

“Hey,” he softly says, kissing the corner of your mouth and lifting himself up. “We don’t have to do this if you—“

“Please!” you gasp, pulling him back. “Please stay here,” you beg, linking your arms behind his head to keep him as close as possible. “Please stay here,” you repeat and you both know your words have a meaning beyond just wanting to keep him in your embrace in this moment.

“I’m not going anywhere. I’m yours forever,” he assures before thrusting into you. “I’m yours forever.”

Harry seems to be asleep beside you when you finally decide to get out of bed and get yourself a glass of water. He stirs gently when the mattress moves underneath you, but doesn’t open his eyes. Quietly, you make your way to the kitchen and grab his shirt from the floor, pulling it on. You grab a glass and fill with tap water and stare out the window while sipping on it.

The storm has stopped, everything is covered in fresh, thick snow, right in time so you’ll have a white Christmas.

You repeat what happened tonight over and over again, trying to figure out how you truly feel about it. When you had Harry pressed up against you, you clearly wanted him in any and every way possible, but now that the lust as died down, momentarily, you’re finally using your brain to think.

You might have jumped at him too fast, it doesn’t mean that everything is smoothed out and there are no hard feelings. There are still questions and fears in you that you won’t be able to bottle up anymore.

“Everything alright?”

Harry’s voice startles you again and as you turn around you see him padding closer to you, wearing his sweatpants and a sleepy look on his face. He stops a few feet away from you, assessing your expression and he sees you the worry etched onto your face.

“Talk to me, Y/N,” he whispers, taking your face in his hands and you hold onto his wrists.

“We got a little carried away.”

“Do you regret it?” he asks and you can see panic rising in him.

“No,” you say without hesitation. “But… I can’t do this if you’re gonna leave again.”

Tears dwell in your eyes. You’re not angry anymore, but scared, that you’ll get hurt again, because you fear you wouldn’t survive it.

“I meant what I said, Y/N. I’m not going anywhere. Unless you want me to leave. I’m never making the same mistake again, I paid for it too.” Leaning down he kisses you softly, painting his promise onto your lips. “I promised myself I would be home this Christmas. But it’s not the town. You’re my home.”

You breathe in his words, let the relief settle in your chest as you nod and rest your forehead against his. Minutes pass by and he just holds you, ensures you silently that you’re not about to make a mistake by starting over with him.

“You must have heard how popular the bakery got, huh?” you joke with a chuckle.

“Ah, absolutely,” he grins, kissing the tip of your nose.

“I’m not letting you get into the business though.”

“So I can’t be a kept man? Damn it!” he laughs and you giggle against his neck. “I’ll prove you that it’s not a mistake, okay? I’ll earn your trust back.”

“Okay,” you whisper with a nod.

“Come on, let’s get back to bed. We can talk more in the morning.”

You follow him back into the bedroom and you gladly settle in his embrace, cocooned in his arms, knowing that this Christmas you’ll be home too.

Harry’s arms are clinging onto you when you slowly wake in the morning. His hands have sneaked underneath your shirt, the warmth of his palms coating your naked skin underneath the layers.

He has always been a clingy sleeper, you learnt that early in your relationship. All those mornings you spent tangled up in each other, soft, lazy kisses, Harry’s hands all over you, because he could never get enough of you.

“I love you, my Y/N.”

“My sweet love, good morning.”

“So soft, so warm, all mine.”

He was always the sweetest in the morning. And he was the same the day he decided to leave. You felt his touch on your waist, stomach and chest, he hugged you tight, his body pressed up against yours in bed as the morning sunshine beamed through the window. It was like every other morning, only that he didn’t go to bed with you that day.

You stretch blindly, enjoying the feeling of Harry wrapped around you, but slowly, you feel like you’re tossed back in time to the day he left, reliving the possibly worst day of your life.

“Mm, morning,” Harry murmurs behind you, his lips pressing to your shoulder before he gently turns you in his arms and he kisses your pouty lips once. Twice. But before he could go for a third one, he realizes something is off. “Babe?”

“I’m… S-sorry, I just…” you sit up in bed, looking around, taking in your surroundings as sleep wears off of your eyes. You’re in Harry’s bedroom at his new place, yet you still feel like you’re in the past, stuck with the version of Harry that will leave you. Again.

“Hey, it’s alright. Just breathe for me.” He gently rubs your back as your breaths are rapidly heaving through your chest. “It’s alright, baby.”

“Are you gonna leave?”

The words roll down your tongue before you could even think twice and you want to take them back, afraid that they might hurt him, but they also root from your fears you’re still struggling with.

Harry stares back at you for a moment and you expect him to walk out on you, but it never happens. Instead, he cups your face in his hand and leaning closer he brushes his lips softly against yours.

“I’m not leaving, Y/N. Never. I know it’s hard to see anything other than the past, but I will work hard to change that.”

“It’s just… so many things remind me of what was before,” you whisper, almost embarrassed, but you just can’t help this feeling that keeps crawling up your spine, into your mind.

“I know. It’s okay, I don’t expect you to change so fast, I know I have to work for it and we’ll get there, to the point where I earn your trust back. Okay?”

“Okay,” you nod shortly as he rests his forehead against yours.

“I love you. We’ll get through this.”

“I love you too,” you coo and crawl to his lap, letting him wrap in his embrace as he lies back in bed, pulling you with him.

“Do you remember how we used to spend Christmas?”

“Yeah,” you nod. “We got a Christmas tree together just before Christmas, made gingerbread house and exchanged gifts on the twenty-fourth, because we were too excited to wait till the morning,” you say with a tiny chuckle.

“What if we did everything different from now on? Make new traditions?”

“What do you have in mind?”

“Well, we could decorate the tree earlier, look for a different recipe to bake and wait till the morning with the gifts.”

“We could attempt to wait… But we might fail.”

A laugh rumbles through Harry’s chest from where you lift your head to look at him.

“I’m sorry I freaked out on you.”

“Don’t be. Just let me be there for you when it happens.”

“Okay,” you whisper and push yourself up so your lips could meet his and this time, it finally feels new. It’s your fresh start.

Thank you for reading, please like and reblog if you enjoyed and buy me a coffee if you want to support me!

#fanficmas #fanficmas 2022 #fanficmas2022 #watchmegetobsessed fanficmas #watchmegetobsessed fanficmas 2022 #harry #styles #harry styles #harry styles fanfiction #harry styles fanfic #harry styles oneshot #harry styles one shot #harry styles fluff #harry styles x you #harry styles x y/n #harry styles x reader #harry styles blurb

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minisugakoobies · 2 years ago

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12 Lays of Kinkmas Masterlist | OT7

Pairing: OT7 x reader (see individual days for pairings)

Genre: holiday, smut, fluff (see individual days for specific genres)

Rating: M (18+)

Warnings: sexual situations; see individual days for specific warnings

Word Count: 28K total (see individual days for specific wc)

Disclaimers: NSFW, obviously I don’t own BTS - they just inspire me

Summary: see under read more cut for individual summaries

A/N: Happy holidays! I will be participating in the 12 Lays of Kinkmas this year! Starting on December 14, I will post a fic a day based on the prompts created by the brilliant @goodsoop! I'll link all of the stories here, below the cut.

Complete as of December 25! Happy holidays! ❄️

Read on for prompts, pairings, and summaries!

Day 1 - Taehyung x Reader: Your work rival has an unusual Secret Santa gift for you this year - posted Dec 14

Day 2 - Yoongi x Gender Neutral Reader: Gift wrapping with your boyfriend goes a little awry - posted Dec 15

Day 3 - Bi!Hoseok x Bi!Reader x Bi!Yoongi: Secrets come to light after your roommate spikes the eggnog - posted Dec 16

Day 4 - Jin x Reader: When your boyfriend won't behave at your annual office holiday party, you've no choice but to take matters into your own hands (sequel to All I Don't Want for Christmas is You!) - posted Dec 17 (also available in podcast format here!)

Day 5 - Hoseok x Reader: Your brother's best friend Hoseok really likes your cookies - posted Dec 18

Day 6 - Namjoon x Reader x Jungkook: Welcome to the Annual Woodpecker Holiday Games! Have a seat on Santa's lap and pick out your package - nice girls get one, but naughty girls get two! - posted Dec 19

Day 7 - Sub!Jungkook x Sub!Reader x Dom!Taehyung: Your boyfriend brings home a very special Christmas gift for you this year - his best friend Jungkook - posted Dec 20

Day 8 - Jimin x Reader x Jungkook x Yoongi: Everyone needs a helping hand now and then. But what are you to do when you have three friends in need and only two to give? - posted Dec 21

Day 9 - Spy!Namjoon x Spy!Reader: During a mission, you get caught in an embrace with your sworn enemy - posted Dec 22

Day 10 - Jimin x Nonbinary (AFAB) Reader: “You wanna fuck in the snow?!” - or, hooking up with your ex always leaves you cold. - posted Dec 23

Day 11 - Taehyung x Reader: Upon discovering that you and your boyfriend are planning on buying each other the same gift, you decide to try it on together first - posted Dec 24

Day 12 - Jin x Reader: Giving your fiancé his present in the early hours of Christmas morning - posted Dec 25

Masterlist ❄️ Find me on AO3 ❄️

#jungkook smut #taehyung smut #jimin smut #yoongi smut #bts smut #hoseok smut #namjoon smut #seokjin smut #bts fanfic #bts drabbles #12 lays of kinkmas #btscarnivalnet #btshoneyhive #btswritingcafe #bangtanarmynet #possumswrite #ot7 fanfic #ot7 smut

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dreamingofep · 1 year ago

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Strangers in the Crowd Epilogue ✨

(Elvis/Austin!Elvis × reader)

Character/Fandom: Elvis - Elvis (2022)

Request: No

Prompt: You and your best friend are on your annual girls trip and go to see Elvis at the International.

Little did you know this would be a show you'll never forget. [Fem!Reader]

TW: Elvis being cute, fluff, happiness and love, kissing

Rating: PG

Word Count: 1.5k

A/N: Hello everyone!

I've been so busy with my other fic that I’ve put this one on the back burner but wanted to come back to it and give you a little epilogue! It’s cute, short, and fluffy so I hope you like it!

Thank you for all your comments and reactions to every chapter. I’m going to be making a better masterlist for this series too. It’s filling up too much space on my main masterlist lol.

I also mentioned earlier that l'm also posting my fics on Ao3 so you can read my stuff there too if you want to read my stuff on there!

✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨✨

December 1970

The cool December air sends a shiver through your body and you zip up your jacket more so the cold doesn’t bother you too much. In the stables, you get the brush to groom your newest horse Elvis bought you, Daisy. She was a beautiful Appaloosa with a light caramel coat and spots at her hind quarters.

You liked to come out here late at night when everyone was asleep and get to have one one-on-one time with the horses. Ever since living here with Elvis, you realized the importance of taking a moment to yourself and just breathe. His lifestyle was hectic and busy. If he wasn’t playing in Vegas, he was out on the road touring. You would come along and be in awe that every show is different and the audience is louder than the last. You loved getting to see Elvis up on stage doing what he does best.

It was nice to get to slow down once you were back at Graceland. It gets so quiet in the later parts of the night and early morning, you like to have those moments just for yourself. Opening the stable door, you pet Daisy on the nose and kiss her there. She whinnies and you put her bridle on and lead her out of the stall.

Tying the reigns to the post at the end of the stable, you start to brush her and pet her soft fur. Nothing runs through your mind and for the first time in a really long time, you’re content and happy with your life. Being with Elvis was the best thing that happened to you. You never knew this was what love was supposed to be like. He made you feel cherished and loved in every aspect and you were so grateful for him. Things were amazing and with the holidays around the corner, he was in an exceptionally giving and thoughtful mood.

Christmas is his favorite time of year and it was the first you two get to spend together. You were having the hardest time trying to find some good gifts for him. What do you get the man who has everything he could ever want?

You asked him every day and he would give you the same answer; nothing.

It drove you crazy. Something as simple as a jacket would be a good indication but he refuses to give you a proper answer. It was roughly two weeks before Christmas and the stores around town were getting bought through like wildfire. You knew he was going to give something nice and extravagant to you and you didn’t want to have nothing under the Christmas tree for him. You were determined to get him to ask for something.

You hear the creak of the stable door open and footsteps following it. You turn around and see Elvis standing there, dressed in denim jeans that made those long legs look perfect, showcasing his bulge in the best ways and his taught little waist. He had a distressed black leather jacket on that he’s had for years and was one of your favorites.

“Hey baby what you doin’ out here? It’s so cold out,” he asks taking off his jacket and walking to you.

“Just spending some time with Daisy. I like to when no one’s around. What are you doin' out here?” You ask inquisitively. He puts his jacket on top of your shoulders and pulls you in for a hug.

“I was just wondering why my honey wasn’t in my bed that’s all. I got worried and had come find you,” he coos. You nuzzled into his chest, the scent of his cologne made you smile just smelling it. His body heat made you want to sink into him and lay there for all eternity. He was so warm not only physically, but emotionally too and that’s something that made you never want to leave. That’s how a lot of people feel about him. He is so inviting and kind, he attracts people to him because he is such a good soul.

“I’m right here baby. Just out here thinking,” you say.

“And what are you thinking about?”

“What I should get the most spoiled man on earth for Christmas,” you joke.

He laughs that contagious airy laugh that he always does and shakes his head at you.

“Honey I’m not going to get mad if I have nothing under the tree for me. I promise you. I don’t want any clothes or shoes. You’re gonna run yourself ragged trying to buy something for me,” He chuckles.

“Elvis, please! I want to give you something. It’s our first Christmas together and I want to make it extra special,” You explain.

His face lights up with that perfect smile and takes your hand.

“Why don’t we put Daisy away and go back inside? Then I’ll tell you what I want,” he says cutely.

Your heart thumps with excitement and agree quickly. Even if he’s joking, you’ll take any suggestion he can give you. You untie the horse from the pole and lead her back to her stable and shut the door for the night.

Elvis takes your hand and quickly rushes out of the stable and into the house. He helps you take off your jackets and places them on the banister of the stairs. He leads you into the living room which is decorated ceiling to floor with Christmas decorations. When they first put them up, it was the most extraordinary thing you ever seen. There was so much beauty already in this house but when the decorations went up, it became even more beautiful. He looks at you lovingly and his eyes glimmer with the string lights that are illuminating the room.

He leads you to the couch and has you sit down. He continues to stand up and look at you, love radiating through him. Your anticipation gets the best of you and you want him to tell you what he wants.

“Soooo… are you gonna tell me what you want or are you just going to stare at me the whole night?” You tease. He slyly grins at you, “I could definitely do that if you wanted me to. But there’s something else I’d like to do.”

He walks over to the Christmas tree and goes around to the backside of it. You curiously look on and wait for him to come closer. He sits right next to you on the couch and pulls your legs to rest over his.

“I wanna tell you what I want most for Christmas,” he coos. His eyes trailing over your face, down to your lips then back up to your eyes.

“Yes, what is it?” You ask in a hushed tone.

“I love you more than you’ll ever know. I have never wanted to be loved by anyone else more than I want to be loved by you. You have brought out something special in me and I cannot believe I found you in that crowd,” he pauses and smiles softly at you. You feel immense emotion come over you and the tears start to well in your eyes. He bends down and kneels on one knee in front of you, digging in his pocket, and pulls out a small, red velvet box.

“You have made me the happiest man these last few months and life only gets better with you by my side. This is all I want for Christmas; if you could make me the luckiest man on earth and marry me,” he says gleefully, opening the ring box facing you and showcasing the beautiful marquise Diamond with a gold twisted band. It was stunning and your heart leaped out of your chest for him. You didn’t have a clue he was thinking of proposing to you. You didn’t think Elvis was the marrying kind so it was something that never crossed your mind.

You keep staring in shock and he grabs your hand and you look up back at him.

“Baby, will you marry me?” He says breathlessly, tears flooding his eyes.

You squeeze his hand and nod your head enthusiastically.

“Yes, yes Elvis. I love you so much,” you sob and reach down to kiss him. Your lips crash into each other with a new urgency you never knew existed. It felt perfect, so breathtakingly beautiful, and you could have it for the rest of your life. He breaks the kiss to look at you and wipes some of the tears off your face. He picks up your left hand and takes the ring out of the box. He carefully slides it on your ring finger, sitting there beautifully in the low light of the living room.

“E… It’s so beautiful… I love it thank you,” you murmur.

He kisses your cheeks, down your arm to your fingertips, making you gleeful with how happy he is at this moment.

“You’re very welcome Mrs. Presley, I love you so much,” he coos.

He places another kiss on your lips and you let yourself fall into paradise with him, calling him home for the rest of your life.

•

Tagging 🖤: @powerofelvis @burninlovebutler @neptuneismysister @velvetelvis @ccab @presleyenterprise @elvispresleyxoxo @loving-elvis

@prompted-wordsmith @sillybookmarks @dkayfixates @rosepresley @ellie-24 @rktismylife-blog @myradiaz @lookingforrainbows @elvispresleygf @tacozebra051 @thatbanditqueen

@18Ikpeters @flwrs4aust @emma181873 @austinswhitewolf @eliseinmemphis @everythingelvispresley @chasingwildflowers @idontwanttoputanything @ohjustpeachy @elvisalltheway101 @austinsmutler @kingdomforapony @generoustreemystic @kendralavon7 @lettersfromvenus @claire-elvisgirl

@ashtag6887 @burnthheparaphilia @richardslady121 @jaqueline19997

@returntopresley @iloveelvis @rjmartin11 @that-hotdog @louisejoy86 @misspresley @cattcb @literally-just-elvis-fics

#elvis presley fanfiction #elvis fic #70s elvis #elvis x oc #elvis x you #elvis x reader #elvis x y/n #strangers in the crowd #elvis fluff #elvis presley

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jjungkookislife · 2 years ago

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Besos Navideños

♡ pairing: Ex-boyfriend!Taehyung x f. reader

♡ genre: exes to lovers, best friend's brother, Christmas au, smut [18+], and side pairing Jikook and Sope

♡ summary: A Christmas wedding, a house full of childhood friends, and an ex-boyfriend. What could possibly go wrong? Dread fills you the moment you're back in town for Alea's wedding, and not even your best friend, Hoseok, can cheer you up with his rendition of Christmas carols on the ride home. After a messy breakup, seeing your ex, Taehyung, flares up your fight-or-flight response. Will you two be able to keep it cordial, or will this wedding turn into an absolute disaster?

♡ wc: 25k

♡ warnings: angst with a happy ending, cursing, alcohol use/mention (keg stands included), ex-boyfriend!taehyung, oc has a nickname she hates loves (barbie/barbie doll), pet names (doll, baby, babe, darling, sweetie, honey), references to Barbie Girl by Aqua, mentions of parent death (oc's mom), grief, strained relationship with oc's father (that later improves), jealousy, jimin sits in oc's lap, mentions of anxiety, food/food mention (food used as comfort in one scene), oc (accidentally} punches tae in the face after waking her up, blood mention from punch, oral sex (f. receiving), fingering (f. receiving), marking (scratching, biting, hickeys), unprotected sex, creampie, misunderstandings, implied public-sex

♡ a/n: was not expecting for this fic to be so long but i did split it into sections to make it easier to read. I hope you enjoy it and i'd love to hear from you here ♡

♡ date: December 25, 2022

SATURDAY DECEMBER 18

“Just hear those sleigh bells jingle-ing, ring ting tingle-ing too!” Hoseok sings at the top of his lungs, both hands on the steering wheel as he keeps his eyes focused on the road ahead of him while a Christmas carol blasts from the stereo.

“God,” you groan as you sit up on your seat, adjusting your seat belt and placing your elbow on the door. Outside, you’re passing familiar neighborhoods from your childhood covered in last night’s snow that’s already melting in the afternoon late autumn sun.

“Outside the snow is falling and friends are calling ‘YOO-HOO’!” Hoseok continues as if he hadn’t heard you, unbothered by your grumpiness.

By the third, belting of giddy-yap, you’re turning down the music. Immediately, Hoseok whips his head in your direction. An icy glare is sent your way.

“Don’t touch the music,” he huffs, turning back to the road as his fingers tap the wheel, humming along to the song. He’d be damned if you killed his Christmas spirit before the holiday even arrived.

“Why am I being tortured? Couldn’t anyone else pick me up from the airport?” you ask as you cross your arms over your chest.

“Ah, ah! No ungratefulness in my car!” Hoseok wags his finger in your direction.

“It’s Alea’s car,” you retort.

Hoseok purposely ignores you. “Besides, I volunteered.”

Pfft.

“Sure,” you roll your eyes. You had to fly out a day after Hoseok because of some last-minute project your incompetent boss had deleted in a drunken stupor at the Christmas party.

“Okay, it’s not volunteering when nobody else wants to come to get you, but here I am! Yoo-hoo!” Hoseok sings as he bops his head and you groan internally.

Of course, nobody wanted to do an airport run so close to the holidays. You couldn’t even be mad, to be honest. You’re grateful Hoseok showed up.

“Fair,” you sigh. “How’s Alea? Seokjin?”

“The lovely couple is running around like chickens with their heads cut off. Fuck, I hate that expression. You’re the last to arrive, actually.” Hoseok informs you as he comes to a stop at a four-way before turning left. The houses on this road are quiet, snow melting on the driveways, old salt staining the sidewalks. Christmas decorations grow more and more extravagant until you spot Alea’s house and then your family home beside it, decorated beautifully.

“Home sweet home,” Hoseok sings as he turns the music off and then the car once he parks in Alea’s driveway behind her parents’ car. He turns to look at you, his finger hitting the button to release his seatbelt.

“You gonna be okay?” Hoseok questions hesitantly. He bites his bottom lip harder than he means to, but his concern is clear as he straightens his face. His obnoxious singing may have been an attempt at a distraction but now you’re faced with not only your childhood home but your childhood love, who happens to be your best friend’s brother, and it would be unrealistic to not expect him home for his sister’s wedding.

“Yeah,” you lie quickly. You curse yourself out, reminding yourself to talk slower to appear more honest, but it’s Hoseok, your best friend and roommate, that knows all your tells. You can’t lie. You can’t even think about lying without him seeing right through you.

Just like clockwork, Hoseok raises a brow, head turned to the side as he takes in your expression and body language. He looks you in the eyes, eyesight only moving to your nose to see your nostrils flaring and he clicks his tongue.

“You’re lying, but you’re trying your best. I can see your nostrils flaring when you lie, but I’ll give you a pass. It’s the holidays and we’re back in town. I’m sure we’re not the only ones dreading it. My family alone is already asking when I’ll be getting married and why we haven’t considered dating already.” he rolls his eyes at the last statement.

“What’s wrong with dating me?” you ask, feigning offense.

Hobi won’t go for it, flipping you off. “Please, you wouldn’t be able to handle me, love.”

“You got that right,” you mutter under your breath.

“You know what?!” Hoseok shouts as he gets out of the car. “Get your own suitcase, then!”

You laugh as you stumble out of the front seat with your purse, giggling as you round the car, not hearing the front door of Alea’s home open.

“I knew you two fuckers were out here!” Yoongi calls as he runs down the front steps and down the driveway toward you.

You’re scooped into a giant bear hug from your friend, squeezed until you’re uttering your lack of breath before he releases you.

“Nice to see you too,” you scoff, but pull Yoongi in for a second hug. You’d missed him.

“Is that my Barbie Doll?” a familiar voice calls from the door and you cringe at the childhood nickname bestowed upon you in elementary school. You thought you’d left it behind, but here was Alea’s mom, Minsu, shouting it for all the neighborhood to hear.

You adored the woman like a second mom, but boy did her voice carry and did she make it her goal to embarrass you and her three children.

“Mrs. Kim!” you greet as you shove Yoongi to the side, meeting her halfway and hugging her tightly. She was a tad bit shorter than you but definitely stronger as she nearly picked you off the ground.

“Mom! You’ll hurt your back again!” Comes a voice you haven’t heard in ages. Your heart stops for a moment, heart fluttering in your chest as you’re released from your embrace.

You stop breathing for a moment, freezing in your spot as the love of your life, aka your ex and first love, stands on the doorstep. He looks as gorgeous as ever, which is insanely unfair if you’re being honest. He’s back in town for the wedding when he’d usually be off in Paris or Milan on the runways. Hell, the last time you’d seen him was on the cover of Vogue.

Taehyung’s curly hair is longer than the last time you’d seen him in person, so much longer, and fuck, it’s held back by a grey headband and it’s almost enough to make you drool. From strolling the runways to standing right in front of you, Kim Taehyung is ethereal even in his white t-shirt and grey sweatpants. You swallow thickly, feeling your face burn as his mother releases you.

Taehyung freezes. Despite knowing of your impending arrival, he wasn’t fully prepared to see you again. He eyes you shamelessly, his pulse racing as he smiles, hands stuffed in the pockets of his sweatpants.

“Hi,” he says with a subtle shrug.

“Hey,” you respond with a small wave before his mom is ushering you up the driveway toward her home, calling for Yoongi and Taehyung to grab your belongings, assuring you that your dad will stop by after work but you’re more than welcome to stay with her family in Alea’s childhood bedroom.

“Oh, I couldn’t!” you protest immediately, but she waves you off.

“Please, do you know how wonderful it is to have all my kids home under the same roof?” Minsu clasps her hands together, smiling widely.

“You might as well,” Hoseok pipes in, taking a seat on a bar stool in the kitchen. “Yoongi and I are already in the guest bedroom in the basement. Seokjin and Joon are in their parents' home. Jungkook is sharing his room with Jimin and Tae’s in his room.”

“Unless you want to stay with your dad,” Mrs. Kim suggests hesitantly, knowing your relationship with your dad was rocky. You two weren’t as close as you’d like to be. After your mother’s passing, your relationship grew strained and your daily phone calls turned monthly and then quarterly until you eventually just sent a text every few months to let him know you were alive.

“I’ll stay here,” you decide, knowing you’ll pop in later tonight to see your father.

Taehyung watches you from the kitchen entryway, exchanging glances with Yoongi, who has had a smile on his face since you arrived. It truly had been ages since the nine of you got together, and the last time you were alone with Taehyung was the night you both got your hearts broken. The thought sours your mood for a second, plastering on a smile as Taehyung’s mom places a bowl of soup in front of you.

“Where is she!” A screech fills the home, and you set your spoon down immediately, rising from your seat and rounding the table just as your best friend, Alea, storms into the kitchen with her arms open to hug you.

“Alea!” you exclaim, welcoming her hug as you wrap your arms around her slim frame. Her long black hair gets in your face and you do your best not to tug it when you squeeze her tighter.

“Will you let her breathe? Damn.” A familiar voice says as they enter the kitchen.

“Fuck off,” Alea groans as she releases you. You take a step back, grinning when you see the youngest of the bunch. Standing in front of you is Jungkook, very different from the last time you’d seen him. He was almost a foot taller, his hair wasn’t in a bowl cut, and he was covered in tattoos.

“Wow!”

“I know, huh?” he grins as he wraps you in a hug, nearly rivaling his sister’s. “I got hot.”

“You’re not the only one,” you giggle as you’re released and pulled into Jimin’s arms.

“I missed you,” he whispers into your hair.

“I missed you too, so much,” you tell him, squeezing him harder before he’s gasping for air dramatically.

“Are you staying with us?” Jungkook asks as he steals your seat. His mom bops him on the head when he lifts your abandoned spoon.

“Mom!”

“Please, you almost ate us out of house and home with your growth spurts. Leave some for Barbie.”

“Barbie?” Jimin sneers. “Is that making a comeback?”

“No! No, it’s not,” you shake your head as the kitchen fills with laughter.

“Come on, Barbs. I’ll get your suitcase to the room,” Hoseok offers, taking your bags as you follow after him with Alea hot on your tail.

“It’s so good to have you back,” Alea grins as she squeezes you tightly.

“You act like I’ll disappear if you let me go,” you joke.

“I almost thought you did,” Alea admits softly. “After you and Tae… I didn’t think things would be the same.”

You sigh heavily. “They haven’t been.”

Alea nods, listening attentively as Hoseok keeps watch. He knows he should shut the door to give you some privacy, but he also knows Yoongi would probably head up to join you at any moment.

“It’s my fault,” you say after a moment. “I was heartbroken, and I pulled away. Kept busy so I wouldn’t have time to think about him and life just kept going. I told myself it wasn’t the end of the world, but seeing him just hurt too much. Don’t get me wrong. I’m proud of him. He’s amazing. I just miss him. I miss us.”

Alea exchanges a look with Hoseok, who shakes his head.

“I found you,” Yoongi says as he enters the bedroom, immediately sensing the mood.

“It’s not like we were hiding, you dork,” Alea laughs, rolling her eyes.

“Dork?! I bring the entertainment and I’m the dork?” Yoongi guffaws. “You’re the dork, you’ve still got your boy band posters up.”

“Hey! No dissing my boybands! They got me through some rough shit,” Alea reminds him. Yoongi chuckles, sitting at the end of her large bed.

“Yeah, put me through some shit, too. I still have a scar on my elbow from that time you made me push everyone out of the way for that GA show, and I tripped and fell on the cement. I didn’t need to get sweat on by the lead singer, either.” Yoongi shudders at the memory.

“I would have paid to get sweat on,” you say dreamily.

“You’re fucking disgusting,” Hoseok shakes his head in disappointment before smirking. “But same.”

“Something’s wrong with y’all,” Yoongi clicks his tongue as Alea moves your suitcase to her closet.

“Anyway, there’s a ton to do! I thought I’d be able to relax days before my wedding, but everything just seems to go wrong.”

“What’s gone wrong?” you ask curiously.

“Seokjin’s suit came in and it was too big, so it’s being altered. Which is why he’s not here yet. My shoes arrived and they’re in eggshell, not ivory, and I keep getting zits,” Alea whines. “But it’s fine. It’s fine. Everything will be fine.”

“Are you saying that to us or to yourself?” you ask with a tiny smile.

“I’m speaking it into existence,” Alea responds, with her hands on her hips. “I need everything to be perfect.”

“Maybe you should tell the band of troublemakers down the hall?” Hoseok suggests. Yoongi nods in agreement.

“Oh, I have. Why do think Tae and Kook are on their best behavior?”

“That’s their best behavior?” Yoongi asks, appalled.

You laugh. “I’ll help to wrangle them in, but I mean, we’re not teens anymore. I’m sure they’re much easier to handle now.”

“They can drink now, and Jimin has a bottomless stomach when it comes to alcohol,” Yoongi informs you.

“Well, shit.”

The rest of the afternoon flies by smoothly until sunset when you excuse yourself at dinner. Minsu hesitates, not wanting to keep you from your father, but knowing your relationship was rocky at best.

“I’ll be fine, mom,” you insist when Minsu lingers at the doorway.

“Come here if you need to. I’ll send Tae or one of the boys to get you,” Minsu assures you, and you hug her tightly. Taehyung nods in agreement, along with Yoongi and Hoseok.

You agree, trudging out the front door toward your childhood home. The porch light is on and your father’s car sits in the driveway. You’re not sure if you should knock or ring the doorbell but thanks to his camera, he’s at the door before you have to decide.

“Hi,” he says as he pulls the door open, allowing you entry into his home. You hug him once you cross the threshold, hoping the evening won’t be too awkward.

“Who stole all the hot water?!” Alea is screeching when you enter the hallway upstairs. You press yourself against the wall as she runs past in her robe with a slipper in her hand. Down the hall you can hear Jungkook giggling, saying something about needing a steam before bed.

“Hey?” Taehyung greets you curiously as you accidentally end up in his doorway trying to avoid Alea and Jungkook as they run past. Alea’s threatening to put Jungkook in a headlock and he’s goading her as the home fills with laughter and Minsu’s shouts about putting them in time-out. Taehyung’s father, Haejin, chuckles as he wraps an arm around his wife’s shoulders, kissing her cheek. “Doesn’t this remind you of old times?”

“Hey,” you clear your throat, wishing the ground would open up and swallow you whole. “What’s up?”

“You’re in my room,” he laughs. “Shouldn’t I be asking you that?”

“Uh…” you look down at your feet, cursing yourself for not paying more attention. Though being fair, your evening with your father had been emotionally draining, and you wanted to shower and get in bed. You needed to process the last two hours, and just sleep. You’ve had a long day after all.

“Sorry, I was trying to avoid the Kim Skirmish in the hall,” you shrug. You look around his bedroom, flashes of your past coming to the forefront of your mind. He still has the bedsheets from long ago, bedsheets you slept in, kissed him in, and… your cheeks flush with heat at the memory.

“‘S no big deal,” he clears his throat, suddenly feeling awkward as you linger by the doorway. Back then, you would have taken reign over his king-sized bed, demanding he put your favorite show on the TV, only for you to fall asleep before the opening credits even finished.

Taehyung sits at his desk, the same old desk he used back in high school to study, and the desk that he used to seal his fate when he sent out his portfolio and eventually got hired for all the magazines that took him away from you. You sour at the thought, your gaze moving to his walls instead, most covered in old video game release posters and a few scattered photos of your adolescence, with your friends smiling and hugging each other tightly. Your heart cinches at the thought. You used to be so close and now… now you were wishing you were anywhere else but here.

“I should go,” you turn on your heel.

“No one’s stopping you,” Taehyung whispers. His words cut like a knife, your body immediately shutting down, your hand gripping the wall to hold yourself up.

You look over your shoulder at Taehyung, blinking back the tears that threaten to spill. The burn is almost too much. Your throat tightens and you swallow the knot in it. That was a low blow, and he knew it. Those were the last words the two of you exchanged all those years ago.

For a split second, upon noting the glisten of your unshed tears, Taehyung feels guilty. He bites his bottom lip, almost wanting to apologize, but your face hardens, and your glare sends a shiver down his spine.

“Goodbye, Taehyung.”

“Fuck,” Hoseok says after a minute of complete silence. A record for your best friend.

You had just finished recounting your evening with your father and your brief encounter with Taehyung. You were curled up in his bed; the blanket pulled up to your chest while he sat on the edge.

Yoongi was snoring away in his bed, a few feet away. Thanks to Jungkook taking up all the hot water upstairs, you were left to shower in Yoongi and Hoseok’s bathroom, deciding to fill Hobi in on your evening whilst you were there. The two of you were whispering, not wanting to wake up Yoongi, who had threatened to pour cold water on you in the morning if he was woken from his beauty sleep. Ha. As if he weren’t already drop-dead gorgeous with the face of an angel.

“What am I even doing here, Hobi?” you sigh. “This was a mistake.”

“None of that.” Hoseok waves your negative words away. “Our best friend is getting married. You’re her maid of honor, and you can’t let Taehyung ruin this for the both of you. He’s my friend too, but fuck, you’d think he’d be able to set shit aside for his sister’s wedding? Maybe he hasn’t matured.”

“I want to be here for Alea, but I thought I’d be able to avoid Taehyung altogether. Our conversation just proved there’s still bad blood between us. It sucks though. I wanted to at least be on speaking terms and it’s harder than I thought to just fucking look at him, much less speak to him. I was so heartbroken when he lied about being signed. He waited until the night before he was flying to Paris for a year to tell me. Everyone fucking knew too, and he said nothing. Nothing !”

Hoseok feels his heart sink as tears stream down your cheeks. He rises from his spot and walks over to you, tugging the covers so he can slide in with you. He holds you tight in his arms, rubbing your side. He’s heard all of this before. Hell, he was the one you ran to that night after finding out and the two of you stayed up all night talking and crying it out. It only made sense that he was the one you seek after your encounter. Hoseok has been at your side for years now. The two of you come as a pair to everything. Where there was you, there was Hobi, and vice versa. He was your main support through all this, not only knowing the gang but also has been a part of it.

“Let’s get through the week, okay? You’ve already gotten through today and in less than a week, we can leave all this behind once again. You’ve got this, love. I’ll be at your side every bit you need me, and I’ll make Yoongi come with too,” Hoseok chuckles. A pillow is thrown your way, an agreement of a half-asleep Yoongi in his bed.

“See?” Hoseok laughs. “He’s in agreement. We’ve got this!”

Feeling reassured, you whisper your thanks to both men, snuggling further into Hoseok before he’s wiping your tears. “Get some sleep, Barbs. We’ve got a busy day tomorrow.”

“Please, not the Barbie nickname,” you groan, turning to yawn.

“Come on, Barbie. Let’s go party.”

“I’ll kill you,” you threatened playfully.

“Ooh-whoa.” Hoseok grins, kissing your cheek before wishing you goodnight.

Sunday December 19

Taehyung is already grumpy when he’s going down the stairs to the basement. He’s on wake-up duty, unfortunately, thanks to his mother. So far, he’s had a pillow thrown at his face, threatened with bodily harm by Jimin, and cursed out by Alea. He was not looking forward to waking up Yoongi and Hoseok.

When his feet reach the icy tile flooring, he curses as he looks at the two beds. One with Yoongi’s mop of black hair sticking out from under the covers, and the other with you sprawled out like a starfish. The sound of the shower running fills his ears and his face sours.

Had you spent the night with Hoseok? Jealousy bubbles inside him as he takes in the scene before him, and there’s no doubt you’re in Hobi’s bed. Were the two of you a thing? He had grilled Alea, Seokjin, and Jimin for days before your arrival to make sure you were still single. So what was this ? Taehyung felt like he was gonna be sick.

“Good morning!” Hoseok chimes as he comes out of the bathroom shirtless, a pair of gray sweatpants hanging low on his hips as he drapes his towel over his shoulders.

“Morning,” Taehyung grumbles. “Mom sent me to wake everyone for breakfast.”

“Oh? I can wake up our little barbie doll if you get Yoongi,” Hoseok offers to help. Taehyung nods, swallowing thickly.

Hoseok approaches the bed, sitting down beside your sleeping body. He places a hand on your shoulder, slowly shaking you. “Baby? Wake up for me, love. It’s morning.”

Taehyung observes the interaction silently, feeling like he’s intruding.

“Come on, sweet girl. It’s time to wake up. Let me see that beautiful face.” Hoseok whispers and you slowly rouse from your sleep, your hands rubbing the sleep from your eyes, a small smile on your lips.

“Waking up to you is always a treat,” you giggle, throwing your arms over your head to stretch.

Hoseok chuckles, kissing your cheek. “Come on, love. Up and at ‘em. We’ve got a busy day ahead of us. Alea’s got an agenda.”

“I hope she’s got me down for a fat nap later. Your bed is so comfortable,” you sigh dreamily, patting the pillow you slept on.

“You can take my bed tonight too, but for now, we’ve got breakfast waiting for us. Come on,” Hoseok lifts the covers off you, taking your hand to help you out of bed and into your slippers. You run a hand through your hair in an attempt to tame it while Hoseok throws on a t-shirt.

“Oh, Tae! I didn’t even see you,” you say in surprise.

Taehyung is stoic. How would you notice him when Hoseok was beside you, shirtless no less?

“Yeah, I figured. Anyway, mom’s waiting, so you should head up,” Taehyung states coldly before turning his attention to Yoongi. He shakes him awake rather gruffly, heading upstairs when Yoongi peers open an eye.

Breakfast is a rather loud affair with Jungkook and Jimin being ready for the day, talking everyone’s ears off while Alea is trying not to fall asleep in her coffee, and Yoongi yawns for the tenth time in thirty seconds.

“We’re taking mom to get her last fitting for her dress. Then we have to pick up a few decor pieces for the hall. Then lunch, then your nap.” Alea rolls her eyes playfully. “Then we’re meeting Namjoon and Seokjin for dinner.”

“I’ll finally get to see them,” you grin, clapping enthusiastically.

“I think we’re the only ones who haven’t seen them,” Hoseok comments from beside you.

“Oh, no,” Minsu frowns. “Should we invite them to lunch as well?”

“Mom, it’s fine. We’ll see them at dinner and Seokjin still has to get Namjoon’s tux fitted,” Alea says before turning to everyone at the table. “Actually, aren’t you all getting your last fittings? I know you sent your measurements but I think you should join Seokjin and Namjoon. Take dad, too.”

“You got it, sis. We’ll meet them there.” Jungkook agrees easily, not wanting Alea to turn into a Bridezilla. So far, they’d been lucky in avoiding her wrath and the fire-spewing from her mouth.

“Best behavior,” Alea reminds him.

“You act like I’m still doing childish things,” Jungkook pouts.

“You had a burping contest last night at dinner,” she deadpans.

“And won !” Jungkook guffaws.

“Anyway,” Taehyung interrupts the brewing of their sibling argument. “We can take my car and Jungkook’s. If there’s anything else you need us to do, sis, just text me.”

Alea tears up. “Leave it to Tae to make everything better.”

Taehyung shrugs. “Just trying to help.”

Alea leaves her seat, pulling Taehyung into a tight hug, her arms around his neck as she squeezes him within an inch of his life. Taehyung gasps for air, laughing when Alea kisses his head and gives him a noogie.

“Alea, no choking your brother at the table,” Haejin scolds as he walks in with the newspaper and a cup of coffee.

“Sorry, daddy!” Alea’s quick to release her younger brother.

“Finish breakfast and we’ll head out,” Minsu instructs, placing a large thermos of coffee in front of Yoongi.

“Ever the angel, mom,” he thanked her, taking a long sip of the hot beverage.

Minsu and Haejin stand beside each other, grinning from ear to ear, both grateful to have their home full once again. All that was missing was Seokjin and Namjoon for their family to be truly complete.

“Finish up, kids. We’ve got a busy day.”

“Wow!”

“Mom, you look gorgeous!”

“If you weren’t married-”

“Hoseok, stop right there!” Alea raises her hand, brow raised. “ That is my mother.”

“And she looks smokin’!” Hoseok grins.

You giggle, agreeing with Hoseok’s sentiment. “You look fabulous!”

Minsu looks at her reflection, spinning in the mirror. Her dress is a beautiful lavender with a square neckline and the tiniest bit of shimmer on the lace sleeves to make it more modest for Minsu (at her request) and it was picked out by Alea for the special occasion.

“Let’s see the bride in her dress!” Hoseok suggests. Alea brightens, “Sure, let me get the attendant! We’ll get you in your dress as well.”

Alea grabs your hand as she takes you with her to find the attendant. You hope her excitement becomes contagious. You’re happy to be here for her special day, doing all these things with her, but Taehyung’s words still linger in the forefront of your mind. It dampers your mood.

“You two look lovely!” Minsu smiles when you and Alea appear from your dressing rooms. Alea has taken the little stage while you stand near her, hands over your mouth.

“Alea, you look gorgeous! Seokjin might drop dead at the altar,” you smile as you take in her wedding dress. It’s a beautiful ivory silk dress with a sweetheart neckline and thin rhinestone straps. Her waist and thighs are hugged immaculately while the slit on one side draws just enough attention to the heels she’s chosen. A thin silver anklet sits on her delicate skin, and when Alea turns, the letter S is spotted. Cheeky little shit. You’re sure Seokjin will enjoy seeing it in the honeymoon suite.

“You look amazing, too!” Alea gushes as she spots you. Hoseok nods in agreement, lifting his phone to snap a quick picture. He sends it to the group chat, after making sure Alea isn’t in the photo and with her permission.

Immediately, compliments come flooding in, your phone dinging repeatedly while Hoseok cackles.

“You both look hot! Do you have a veil, Lea?” Hoseok asks her.

Alea nods. “Let me get it. Mom, can you help me?”

Minsu and Alea head toward the dressing room while you take a moment to admire your reflection. Hoseok stands behind you.

“You look wonderful, babe. Taehyung’s gonna eat his heart out,” He assures you.

You look at Hobi’s reflection in the mirror. “You think so?”

“I know so. Just look.” Hoseok lifts his phone to the mirror and you turn to face him. On the screen, it’s opened to the group chat. You skim through the compliments, Taehyung’s sticking out the most.

Taehyung [12:31 PM] So beautiful

“I’m sure he just means the dress,” you shrug.

Hoseok clicks his tongue. “When are you going to see yourself as we see you, love? You’re beautiful inside and out. You deserve the world, and whoever will give it to you. Whether it’s Taehyung… or someone else.”

You’re left speechless.

“What do you think?” Alea squeals as she reappears with her veil on.

“Wow!” you gasp, taking her in.

“So are you and Seokjin serious?” Hoseok asks with a wiggle of his brows.

“Hobi, you play too much!” Alea cackles as she spins for the three of you, her laughter music to your ears.

Yoongi is unamused as Taehyung steps onto the small stage at the Tuxedo shop. He was a professional model. Of course, he’d look good in a tux.

“You don’t need to pose, Tae. You’re not doing Fashion Week,” Namjoon grumbles, shoving Tae out of the way.

“I have been for the past five years. Thank you very much,” Taehyung smirks as he turns and poses again. Jungkook and Jimin squat down in front of him, snapping pictures left and right, spurring him on.

“Can’t take you three anywhere,” Seokjin sighs as he comes out of the dressing room, doing up his cuffs.

“Please, we bring life to the party,” Jimin snaps. “You’d be bored out of your minds without us.”

“But we’d have silence ,” Yoongi sneers.

“You’re the loudest of them,” Seokjin shakes his head.

“Ooh, incoming photo!” Jungkook announces as he looks at the group chat. He waits for it to load before letting out a low wolf whistle. Jimin looks at his phone from over his shoulder, mimicking his whistle.

“I tell you, if we weren’t already together,” Jimin jokes. Jungkook smiles, nodding in agreement.

“She’s hot,” Jungkook grins.

“What are you on about?” Namjoon asks as he fishes his phone out of his pocket. He, too, whistles upon seeing the image of you in your maid-of-honor dress. “God damn.”

“What are you all going on about?” Taehyung asks, stepping down from the stage, pouting now that the attention is no longer on him.

“Hobi’s pic,” Yoongi answers.

Taehyung takes his phone out of his pants pocket. He opens the chat and is immediately greeted with your photo. You look beautiful. It takes his breath away and Yoongi doesn’t miss the chance to snap a picture of his reaction as proof that something still lingers in his heart for you. Whether or not you believe him.

Everyone turns to Taehyung, and he finally peels his eyes off his phone once he feels the heat of their stares. So much for trying to be inconspicuous.

“What?” Taehyung questions gruffly, his defenses up.

“Are you still in love with her?” Jimin is the only one ballsy enough to ask.

Taehyung scoffs. “Please, when have I not been?”

The room freezes. Nobody was expecting him to actually be honest. Even Namjoon is looking around, gauging everyone’s reaction because there’s no way he easily admitted his true feelings in front of everyone without a second thought.

“Wasn’t expecting that.” Yoongi is the first to speak.

“I think it’s pretty obvious,” Taehyung shrugs. “Besides, I’m not ignorant enough to believe something will come out of it. So why bother lying?”

Jimin, Jungkook, Yoongi, Namjoon, and Seokjin exchange a look. Taehyung ignores them, typing something into the chat before heading back to the dressing room to get changed.

Silence rings loudly.

“I think our suits fit fine,” Namjoon states.

Jimin, Jungkook, and Yoongi nod in agreement. Seokjin looks at his reflection with a nod in agreement as he spins and raises his arms this way and that, making sure his shoulders aren’t constricted. After all, he wants to get out of here just as quickly as everyone else.

Even though Haejin was supposed to join them, he had to pop into the office. Seokjin and Alea would take him in the middle of the week instead. Seokjin is thankful his future father-in-law wasn’t present for this.

“Let’s go to lunch,” Jungkook suggests as he goes into his dressing room. Everyone disperses to get changed back into their own clothes, and almost all of them are surprised to see Taehyung’s text in the chat.

So beautiful.

Dinner with the group leads to drinks in the Kims’ basement.

“I still have to work tomorrow,” Seokjin reminds them as he takes a shot.

“Me too,” Namjoon frowns as he downs his second shot. You giggle, shaking your head.

“It’s so nice to be off. Though, going back after the new year is gonna hit hard,” you frown. Why must going back to work cause you so much unease? You couldn’t wait to be strictly working from home once the new year rang in. You were ready to make your own schedules, work on your own time and, most importantly, work for yourself. You would no longer need to be dealing with your incompetent boss. You were ecstatic.

“Please, I have to go before that,” Hobi pouts, downing a shot.

“Let’s not talk about work,” Jimin groans. “We have better things to do!”

“Like what?” Alea asks cautiously.

“Like playing truth or dare!” Jungkook exclaims, raising his glass in the air.

“Isn’t that too childish?” Yoongi asks the group.

“That means he goes first!” Taehyung smirks.

“I hate you guys!” Yoongi huffs.

“While you come up with a dare, Alea and I are gonna make mixed drinks,” you inform them as you rise from your seat between Hoseok and Jimin. Alea nods, talking about what drinks she’s having at the reception as the two of you go up the stairs to the kitchen.

Once upstairs, Alea makes sure the coast is clear before clearing her throat to get your attention. She doesn’t make eye contact. Instead, she focuses her attention on the glass she’s holding, adding ice to it.

“Have you and Tae had time to talk?” she finally asks, biting her lip nervously.

“No?” you respond. “Should we have?”

“No! I was just curious. You know, after the chat,” Alea shrugs as she pours juice into the glass.

“He was just being nice, Lea.”

“I know,” Alea gives in. “I was just hoping there was something else.”

“I wouldn’t get your hopes up,” you say honestly. “Maybe we can talk this week. Be cordial if nothing else. I know we both said some hurtful things, and to be frank, I miss having him as a friend. We used to be so close.”

“I miss it sometimes. He and I still talk often, but rarely out of our Thot Potatoes group chat. I don’t think I’ve had an actual conversation with just him in a long while. I don’t want to bring up bad memories for either of you. The two of you were perfect.”

“I don’t know about perfect.” you bite your lip. “But we were definitely good together.”

Alea nods in agreement. She finishes up making the drinks, asking you to get her a tray before the two of you divvy up the drinks and carefully take them down the stairs into the basement.

It’s absolute chaos when you reach the last step, eyes wide as you take in the scene before you, with Alea at your side.

Somehow, Jungkook and Jimin had procured a keg and had Seokjin doing a keg stand while Yoongi and Hoseok watched in awe and worry. Taehyung was sipping his glass of whiskey, taking it all in and smiling when he spots the two of you.

“I had nothing to do with this,” he smiles with a raise of his glass.

“I call next,” Namjoon raises his hand, waving it about.

“I don’t know what I expected,” Alea laughs, shaking her head as she sets the drinks to the side on a table. You do the same, grabbing one of them and taking a large gulp in a frail attempt to catch up to all your friends.

“I thought we were playing truth or dare?” Alea asks as she sits beside you, mixed drink in her hand. Taehyung shrugs, handing you both shots.

“Jungkook had this stashed here earlier apparently,” Seokjin says once he’s back on his feet and the rest of your friends are lifting Namjoon off of his.

Laughter fills the basement, the atmosphere quickly changing to a more relaxed one, where the tension isn’t cutting into all of you. You finally feel at ease, taking in the smiles of all your friends, and your heart warms. You missed this, missed them, missed being a family. Growing up definitely had its ups and downs, and moving away, though with Hobi, was still a down. You missed being home. Maybe the two of you could consider moving back? After all, you’d be able to work from anywhere in the world. Why not live near your best friends once again?

“You okay, doll?” Yoongi comes to sit at your side, a glass of whiskey in his hand. He’s flushed, his eyes glimmering in a certain way that leaves you wondering what it is he’s thinking about.

“Totally,” you answer, leaning your head on his shoulder. You’ve reached the point of being snuggly-tipsy, wanting to cuddle and hug all your friends, except Taehyung, of course.

“You’re quiet tonight. Something on your mind?” Yoongi swirls his drink, focused on it to make it easier for you to speak without being under the heat of his questioning stare. Like Hoseok, Yoongi knew all your tells, so it was useless to lie to him.

“I just miss being home. Here with everyone,” you answer truthfully. Yoongi clicks his tongue. “We’ve definitely missed having you and Hobi around. Makes times like these more special, though.”

“Maybe it's time we moved back?” Yoongi nods firmly at your words. He wouldn’t make the final decision for you, but if this is how you were feeling (and Hobi had confided in him as well), then who was he to stop either of you?

“What are you all up to?” Jimin asks with a giggle as he plops down on your lap, his arms wrapped around your neck. He’s on the edge of tipsy and full-on drunk, but his smile and his warm hug make you feel safe and comforted.

“Just chatting,” Yoongi responds, raising his glass to his lips for a quick sip. “Didn’t miss your keg stand, though.”

“Ah, are you two up for one? I’ll grab Kook!” Jimin’s eyes sparkle with mischief as he wriggles in your hold trying to escape. You hold him tighter, “No need.”

“You’re no fun,” Jimin sticks his tongue out at you, and you do the same.

“Who’s up for Twister?” Seokjin asks, hoisting the box over his head, not taking no for an answer as he recruits Namjoon and Taehyung with the setup. Hoseok and Jungkook stand in front of each other, a row of shots between them, and when Alea shouts “go!” they down them as quickly as possible.

The three of you watch the madness unfold, laughter loud and contagious as the room comes alive with the warmth and love that you all hold for each other. This could be a regular thing, you think. You could be home for good.

“Come on, already!” Jungkook shouts, waving his hand to rally you up.

Immediately, Jimin is tugging at your hand, grabbing Yoongi on his way to join the others. Last sips of drinks taken from glasses, giggles, and challenges are thrown about as Seokjin grabs the spinner, ignoring the official rules like always and playing each man (or woman) for themselves.

“Oldest to youngest,” he proclaims.

Groans and whispers of unfairness are shouted out, but Seokjin will hear none of it. Seokjin and Alea are up first, followed by Yoongi, Hoseok, You, Namjoon, Jimin, Taehyung, and finally Jungkook.

Jungkook makes a show of shoving his way in and using his strength to rock a few of you. Grumbles and curses are muttered as he settles, pressing a kiss to Jimin’s lips before Seokjin is reaching for the spinner. He flicks it, holding his breath when it stops and the rounds continue until there are only three of you left.

Jungkook and Taehyung are glaring at each other, limbs trembling as you spin and have to move beneath Taehyung. You huff, refusing to give in despite the rest of your friends finding other ways to occupy themselves, some having retreated to bed with grumbles of waking up for work early in the morning.

“Fuck, move,” you growl when your foot hits Taehyung’s. He huffs in response, moving the slightest bit, but Jungkook is trying to stifle a sneeze and it fails as his body is rocked and he collapses.

“No,” he cries in despair, giggling when he swipes his foot and takes Taehyung with him.

“Brat! That’s cheating!” Taehyung frowns as he gets to his feet and you’re left as the winner.

“Finally,” Yoongi scoffs. “It’s time for bed.”

“Come on,” Jimin grabs a hold of Jungkook, leading him up the stairs, their giggles filling the home as they retreat to Jungkook’s bedroom.

Hoseok is already asleep, snoring softly in his bed while Yoongi left to shower.

Alea and Taehyung linger, cleaning up a bit before you’re all heading up the stairs. You wish Taehyung goodnight before helping Alea to bed. She’s tipsy, and a little giggly as she gets ready for bed.

Once Alea is tucked in, she sits up just for a moment. “I’m really glad you’re here.”

“I’m glad to be here, Lea. Get some sleep, okay?” you wish her goodnight, quietly gathering a change of clothes.

Unable to sleep, you slip out of her bedroom, silently stepping into the hallway. You’re careful where you step, not wanting to make the floorboards creak and hoping your memory serves you right from all those nights you used to sneak into Taehyung’s room.

“Two steps to the right and one to the left,” a voice startles you. You raise your head, locking eyes with Taehyung, standing at the opposite end of the hall, just feet from his bedroom.

“Thanks,” you whisper as you take the steps and end up right in front of him.

“Can’t sleep?” Taehyung leans against the entryway. He was just returning from the kitchen after fetching water bottles for his younger brother, his best friend, and was on his way to Alea’s bedroom to leave one for her and you.

“Too much excitement,” you fib, shrugging. “I’ll get out of your hair.” You go to walk past him, but he stops you with a gentle touch on your arm.

“Wait, a minute?” he pleads softly.

“Tae, I should really go-”

“Just a moment of your time,” Taehyung begs quietly. You sigh, nodding in agreement. He thanks you, moving past you to leave the water in Alea’s room and coming back to the hallway.

“Come with me,” Taehyung leads the way back to his bedroom, and this time you hesitate to enter. He takes notice, urging you in regardless and letting you sit on his bed while he sits on the opposite end. It's been so long since you’ve been here, and you almost wish you could go back in time to when things were easier between you.

The silence is thick between you, and you swallow thickly, your hands tugging at a loose thread on the bed sheets.

Taehyung is the first to speak, pushing past his nerves. “How are you?”

“Really? That’s what you’re choosing to say to me?”

Taehyung sighs. “You were the one who told me to leave! You’re the one who said nobody was stopping me. So I left!”

You cross your arms over your chest, refusing to meet his eyes. You had said that, and you had regretted it ever since. You were young and hopelessly in love with him but you were leaving for college soon and you thought Taehyung would wait for you to come back but he had other plans and it was wrong of you to expect him to sit and wait for you.

“You didn’t tell me until the night before, Tae! I thought I was important to you! That our relationship meant something to you but apparently it wasn’t for me to know. God, I looked so stupid when I found out. I hated you then and I’m not crazy about you now. I can’t wait to go back home.” You huff in annoyance as you get to your feet.

Taehyung exhales deeply. This isn’t how he wanted this conversation to go. Not at all

“Look,” he says stiffly, watching you from his spot on the bed.

“Let’s just get along for the rest of your time here. I don’t want to upset Alea or have her worry about us behaving while she’s already stressed enough. She’s my sister and I want her wedding day to go smoothly. Can we be friends, if not cordial until Christmas?” Taehyung queries, his hand finding the same loose thread you had been toying with. “And then you never have to speak to me or see me again.”

You swallow thickly, the urge to cry building up inside you. Biting your lip to keep it from quivering, you look at Taehyung. He refuses to look at you but eventually the heat of your stare is too much and his eyes meet yours; a slight shine gives away his unshed tears.

“If that’s the way you want it,” you say with a sniffle, and Taehyung breaks. He rises to his feet to approach you, but you take a step back. He pauses as you wipe away a stray tear. “I’ll see myself out. Goodnight.”

Taehyung watches you go, floorboards creaking below your feet in your hurry to leave. He sniffles, groaning as he wipes his eyes. Why does he have to make things worse? How could he live without you in his life forever? How could he love again if it’s not you?

With a heavy heart, Taehyung shuts his bedroom door. Tears still roll down his cheeks when he gets into bed, your scent left on his pillow that he holds tightly, wishing he were hugging you instead.

MONDAY DECEMBER 20

In the morning, you’re woken gently by Hoseok, soft good mornings exchanged as your head throbs from last night’s drinks.

“Ugh, my head,” you groan as you sit up, your hands clutching the sides as Hobi presses a bottle of water to your lips.

“What time did you go to bed?” Hoseok asks as he sets the water bottle down on the nightstand. Yoongi has gotten up earlier than you both, claiming the shower in his hurry to get out the door with Jimin and Jungkook. Alea has taken her parents out for breakfast, then to her dad’s suit fitting and lunch.

Hoseok is going to go out and look for apartments unbeknownst to you. Just to get an idea of what is available should the two of you actually move back home. Your dad is expecting you for dinner tonight and anxiety pools in your belly.

“Breakfast is in the fridge if you’re up for it, but there’s nothing on your agenda for the day if you want to laze around down here or upstairs. Namjoon and Seokjin have work until this afternoon and I think you’ll have the place to yourself if you just want to binge-watch that show you’ve been rattling on about. You know, the one with the weird guy and the glass case.” Hoseok smiles, poking your cheek.

“That actually sounds like a nice way to spend the day. Thanks, Hobi. I’ll see you later?”

“Of course, doll. I’ll be around,” Hoseok plants a kiss on your hand before leaving you, reminding you to text him should you need anything while he’s out. He’s borrowed Alea’s car and will be out around town all day.

Yoongi is quick to leave, rushing through good mornings and reminders to eat as he storms up the stairs, calling for Jimin and Jungkook. You’re unsure of what their plans comprise but when it comes to that trio, the less you know, the better.

It takes a good ten minutes after Yoongi’s departure for you to climb up the stairs and into the kitchen. You grab a small bowl of fruit, picking at it while sitting on the couch with a throw blanket over your legs. Your head isn’t hurting as bad as it was when you woke, but there’s a lingering throb at the sides.

You’re two episodes in when the stairs creak and your head whips around. Taehyung stands on the stairs, one hand on the rail and the other covering the yawn that escapes him. You’re left breathless, taking in his shirtless appearance. Honeyed skin and soft torso, lean muscles that used to drive you insane.

“Oh, hi,” he says upon realizing you’re there. “I didn’t think anyone was home.”

“Just me,” you shrug, turning away from him. You push back the memories of all the kisses you’d left on his skin, tiny bite marks and hickeys left behind when you’d sneak away from your friends to make out in his bedroom.

“Cool,” he muffles another yawn. “Care if I join?”

“It’s your house, Tae. Do what you want,” you remind him. He clicks his tongue. You were going to make this difficult. He bites his tongue, keeping his thoughts to himself as he sits beside you, his phone in his hands as he scrolls away, only half listening to your show.

“I meant what I said last night, you know. I want us to be friends,” he turns to you, flipping his phone in his lap. A nervous tick, apparently.

“Tae,” you start and he nearly melts. That’s the second time you’ve used his nickname. “We haven’t been friends in a long time.”

“All I’m asking for is a few days. For Alea,” he responded. You sigh, you could do this for her, right? How hard could it be to pretend you were friends with Taehyung again? Think of it as a personal challenge.

“Fine, for Alea,” you give in. “But just for the wedding.”

Taehyung nods, sticking his hand out for you to shake. Reluctantly you do so, looking him in the eye and ignoring the sparks that come from his touch. Now that you’re sober, they seem to crackle and pop more intensely, with no excuse of alcohol to deter your judgment.

The day flies by with the two of you on the couch. Taehyung gets sucked into the show, even ordering you two lunch from your favorite place in town. You try not to seem too surprised when he recalls your order without needing to ask.

Hours fly by and you two catch up in between bites of food and sips of drinks. He tells you about his travels, places he loved, and places he wishes never to visit again. You’re even pleasantly surprised to know he’s gotten a small dog, a Pomeranian named Yeontan.

“Why didn’t you bring him?!” You squeal when he shows you pictures of the pup.

“I figured we’d be busy with the wedding. I didn’t want him in the way. He’s left with one of my friends back home,” Taehyung informs you as he shows you a video of Tannie running around on his bed.

“You should bring him next time! He’s so cute!” You gush as you watch another video of the pup barking and rolling around before Taehyung has him give a high-five.

Taehyung smiles. “Sure, I'm sure he’d love you.”

“Who wouldn’t?” You tease with a laugh as you see Tannie running through a tunnel in Taehyung’s living room, hopping over a box and through a hoop, all to get a handful of treats.

Taehyung is quiet as you swipe through more videos in his Tannie album on his phone, your sweet laughter music to his ears. This is the most the two of you have spoken and it warms his heart to have you close and on speaking terms. He often wondered what a reconciliation would look like and never did he imagine it would come with barking from his dog and silly little videos of the pup.

By the time everyone is coming back home, Taehyung and you have finished all the first season and some of the second. The two of you part ways once the commotion of Jungkook, Jimin, and Yoongi’s arrival becomes too loud to hear the TV.

Showered and ready for dinner at your dad’s, you wave at Hoseok before heading out.

Nerves bubble in your stomach, hoping dinner won’t be too awkward between you. You find it tough to be inside your childhood home, your mother’s presence very much missed in the walls, and her laughter that once brightened the home is missing and now, it’s very evident that she’s gone.

Dinner is waiting for you at the table. You thank him and ask him about his day.

You’re hesitant to share your thoughts on moving back to town, but your father is pleased to hear it. He offers you your old bedroom and you thank him, reminding him you and Hobi are a sealed deal.

You almost wish you had siblings growing up. Maybe at least then they’d liven up the place a little more. Helping your dad with the dishes and making small talk isn’t ideal and you comment on his lack of decorations inside the home.

“Your mother always loved decorating inside. I always did the outside and I just can’t bring myself to open up the boxes in the attic,” he explains. You hug him, rub his back, and say nothing else until it’s time for you to head next door.

Though it’s only a few feet from her childhood home, you’re quick to jog back, not wanting to be put in the cold longer than necessary. There're rumors of snow falling for Christmas and you’re not sure if you should look forward to it or not.

Your thoughts run amok in your head as you shut the front door after you, immediately noting the quietness in the home.

You fish for your phone in your coat pocket, noting the missed messages from your friends. Alea and her parents have gone out to dinner with family members flying in for the wedding. Seokjin and Namjoon’s famiily joined them, as well as Jungkook and Jimin.

Yoongi and Hoseok have gone out to dinner, stopping for drinks and dessert at a bar near your old stomping grounds. They won’t be home till late and it’s best if you don’t wait up.

Sighing heavily, you kick your shoes off and hang your coat up on the hook before heading to the kitchen for a glass of water.

“That was some sigh,” Taehyung comments, startling you.

“Fuck,” you place your hand over your chest. “You scared me!”

Taehyung laughs, throwing his head back and shaking his head. His soft curls shake with him and you resist the urge to run your fingers through them like you used to. You miss having his head in your lap, fingers carding through each lock until he was snoring softly and fast asleep. You push the memories away.

“Sorry,” he apologizes with his hands up in surrender. “I thought you’d heard me.”

“No,” you shake your head. “I had a lot on my mind. I didn’t hear you when I walked in.”

Taehyung nods. He notes the frown on your face and the faraway look in your eyes. “How was dinner?”

You look at him, debating if you should spill or go cry in your temporary bedroom. Taehyung would probably hear you from his room.

“Just missing my mom,” you shrug. Taehyung pauses his scooping, leaving his bowl of ice cream on the counter.

“Hey, come here,” he says softly when he sees the first few tears roll down your cheeks. You sniffle, wiping your face and forcing a smile. “I’m fine, Tae. Just the holidays.”

Taehyung takes a step toward you, wrapping you up in his arms, knowing very well you could push him away. You don’t. You accept his hug and wrap your arms around him, your head resting on his shoulder. Your heavy sigh is soon overcome with tears and labored breathing.

“Sorry,” you apologize once you get a hold of your tears. “I just haven’t been home in a while and seeing the house so empty and dark. I guess it hit me, she’s gone and dad’s all alone.”

“I understand,” Taehyung says with his hand rubbing your back. “I’m sure it can’t be easy being away from him, especially now.”

“I know I should come back more, but being home without her there. I just can’t, Tae!” You sob, burying your face in his chest. Taehyung holds you, his fingers running through your hair as he kisses the top of your head.

“Let it out, doll. I’ve got you.” His words are reassuring as you cry in his arms. You don’t know how long it’s been since you’ve cried it out but now you’re feeling somewhat better.

Once you’ve calmed down enough, and you’ve washed your face, Taehyung offers you some melted ice cream.

“Oops,” you say, realizing you’ve ruined his dessert.

“No big deal,” Taehyung shrugs. He opens the freezer to pull out your favorite flavor instead. “Mom went shopping.”

“She’s the best!” You exclaim when Taehyung sets the container on the counter, getting two clean bowls out of the cabinet.

“You scoop and I’ll wash this one,” he tells you. You easily agree, wanting nothing more than to dig into your ice cream, and maybe, just maybe, Mrs. Kim has also gotten some Magic Shell.

“Oh, wait,” Taehyung rushes to the pantry, pulling out a chocolate sauce that hardens when it gets cold.

“Fuck, I love your mom!” You cheer as you put the container of ice cream in the freezer and Taehyung pops open the bottle.

“Hey!” He protests. “I’m the one who snuck this into the shopping cart!”

“You still hide it under the boxes of cereal when she’s ringing up?” You ask, pouring a good amount of chocolate syrup on your ice cream before handing it over to Tae.

“I learned from the best,” he jokes as he pours some over his ice cream, closing the lid on the bottle and placing it back in the pantry.

“I used to sneak so many snacks that way,” you chuckle. “Hell, I still do it when I grocery shop with Hoseok. He’s a real stickler about sweets.”

“Do you enjoy living with him?” Taehyung asks curiously. He carries both your bowls to the living room, making sure you’re comfortable with your throw blanket over your lap before he hands the bowl over to you.

“Thanks.” You swipe a bit of chocolate from your spoon, popping it in your mouth before answering his question. “I enjoy it. He’s my best friend and we get along really well. It’s like having a piece of home with me always.”

Ouch. That hurts, Taehyung thinks.

“Have you two ever thought about dating?” Taehyung pries.

“We do date,” you answer him, not quite sure what he’s getting at.

Taehyung chuckles and shakes his head. “No.”

“Oh!” You gasp. “Like each other?”

“Yes.”

“Oh no! That would never work out,” you answer simply, scooping ice cream into your mouth.

“Why not?” Taehyung asks curiously, moving his ice cream around his bowl and making a mess, much like Jungkook would.

“Aren’t you ever the Nosy-Rosy,” you tease. “Hoseok and I wouldn't work. He’s a total flirt and his feelings are tied up in someone and I’m in lo-”

Taehyung raises a brow.

“It wouldn’t work,” You shrug. You busy yourself with putting your show back on, but see your favorite Christmas movie and turn that on instead.

“So if not Hobi, is anyone else keeping you in that city?” Taehyung knows he shouldn’t pry too much, but he’s got his heart on his sleeve and he’s ready to risk it all for you. He hasn’t been a saint while you two have been apart, but he’s still in love with you, still wants you and everything the two of you promised each other all those nights in between kisses and wild dreams for the future. He’s finally at a place where he can give it to you all if you’d just say the word.

“I’m gonna need a refill if you’re gonna try to get info out of me, babe.” you shove your bowl into his chest and he grins. He ignores your slip of the tongue, though his heart is pounding in his chest, blood rushing in his ears and he wonders if he’s heard you correctly.

“Using me for ice cream,” he clicks his tongue. “Just like old times.”

“Don’t forget the chocolate sauce!” You call after him.

“Yeah, yeah!” he calls back, feigning annoyance as he gets to the kitchen to make you a second bowl.

When he hands it to you, you dig right in, moaning around the spoon. “Fuck, this is so good.”

“You got your ice cream, now spill,” he pouts as he gets under the blanket with you. His cold feet meet your warm ones and you send a glare his way.

“Fine, but you spill after,” you compromise. He nods in agreement as he scoops ice cream from his own bowl.

“No, I’ve dated here and there, but nothing concrete. People are assholes.” you shudder at memories of some men you’ve gone on dates with. From being rude to staff to wolf-whistling other girls in front of you. You were over it.

“How about you?” You turn to look Taehyung in the eye and he shrugs.

“Mostly hookups here and there. I’m not out smashing everyone I see, but I’ve had a few flings,” he says as he eats the last of his ice cream.

“You’ve been flinging?” You tease.

“I’ve been flung,” he answers with a laugh. “Not as much as you may imagine. Maybe five people after you.”

You’re surprised by his honesty but nod as you focus on your ice cream, suddenly becoming more interesting than your conversation. Taehyung takes your bowl and washes them after you’re done, joining you back on the couch and under the blanket when he returns.

The two of you chat throughout the movie, playing another nostalgic favorite until the front door opens and Jungkook’s voice fills the living room.

“Alright! I need all four hands where I can see them! You know the rules!” Jungkook shouts as he walks into the living room, startling you both.

“They’re no fun, all hands are visible,” Jimin pouts as he sits on the arm of the couch.

“You guys are so boring,” Yoongi huffs a laugh as he’s followed by a tipsy Hoseok.

“What are you two doing?”

“Were you doing it?” Jungkook wiggles his eyebrows suggestively.

“No!” You shout, appalled.

“Damn,” Jungkook giggles. “Did we interrupt?”

“I doubt Barbie would be getting down with The Santa Clause on screen,” Hoseok chuckles, leaning heavily on Yoongi for support.

“Well, actually,” Jimin starts, a glint of mischief in his pretty brown eyes.

“Not a word, Min!” You shove him off the couch and he clatters onto the floor, cackling for the entire neighborhood to hear.

“Santa?” Taehyung asks with a smirk. “Didn’t think you’d be into that.”

“I’m not!” Your protest falls on deaf ears as Jimin rises to his feet, latching onto his boyfriend to lead him upstairs, where his laughter can still be heard.

“Alright, I’m going to bed,” you announce.

“I’d stay in Alea’s room,” Yoongi warns. “He drank more than he should have and will probably throw up.”

“Ew!”

“Hey!” Hobi shouts, unable to control his volume. “You’ve come home worse.”

“I’ve got you,” Yoongi sighs. “Come on.”

You watch Yoongi take your inebriated friend down the steps, shaking your head before turning back to the TV.

“Whelp! Jimin ruined this.” You giggle as you shut the TV off and yawn.

“Wanna go to bed?” Taehyung asks and you nod.

You head to Alea’s bedroom, grab a change of clothes and take a shower before going back to her room. Taehyung is sitting on her bed when you return, a towel wrapped around your head.

“What’s up?” You ask him as you release your hair from the towel.

“Just wondering if you wanted to finish the second season of that show or maybe watch a movie until my parents get home?” He bites his lip out of nervousness, but you nod. What did you have to lose? After all, you’d already spent the majority of the day with him anyway, and you had agreed to be friends for the next few days.

You quickly dry your hair before heading to his bedroom. He’s got his TV on and ready, your favorite blanket of his on the bed, and some snacks on the nightstand.

You settle into his bed under the blanket, eyes feeling heavy as he puts on a movie and gets in bed beside you. You watch the first few minutes of the movie before you’re both asleep, heads leaning against each other and soft snores escaping your lips.

TUESDAY DECEMBER 21

“You’re sure she was home last night?” Hoseok asks Yoongi for the ninth time since he’s been awake.

“I’m sure,” Yoongi hisses in response. That hiss is the first thing Taehyung hears when he wakes up. He yawns, trying to stretch, but finds out he’s wrapped up in his blanket. He goes to push it off him and then his eyes widen in shock when he sees your face in his chest and your arm draped across his ribs.

Fuck, you’d fallen asleep a short while into the movie.

Taehyung is careful as he untangles himself from the bed. Quietly he goes to his bedroom door, opening it slowly to come face to face with Yoongi and Hoseok.

Both men look at him apologetically. “Shit, we didn’t mean to wake you.”

“What’s going on?”

“Barbs is missing,” Yoongi explains.

Hoseok swats his shoulder. “Don’t call her that. She hates it.”

“She didn’t sleep with us and she’s not in Alea’s room,” Yoongi explains further.

“And she’s not with Jimin and Jungkook or on the couch. I’m about to go next door and see if she’s there instead. Maybe she got nostalgic and wanted to be in her own room,” Hobi sighs as he cards a hand through his hair, a worried frown on his lips.

Taehyung bites his lip. “She’s in here.”

“She’s what?” Hoseok hisses, shoving Taehyung out of the way immediately, bulldozing into the bedroom.

Just like Taehyung had said, you were fast asleep in his bed, wrapped up in his blanket and hugging his pillow in his absence.

“Y’all fucked?” Yoongi asks sniffing the air.

“No!” Taehyung is quick to shut that down. “And quit sniffing! You’re gonna wake her.”

“A semi-truck wouldn’t wake her,” Yoongi scoffs.

“I’ll wake her up,” Hoseok says with a wave of his hand. “You’ve gotta be gentle.”

“I’ll do it. She’s in my bed,” Taehyung states as he stands beside Hoseok.

“Gentle,” Hoseok stresses. “You can’t surprise her.”

“I can wake up my friend without warnings,” Taehyung scoffs. Hoseok rolls his eyes. “You’ve been friends for twenty-four hours, Romeo. Listen to your elders.”

“Let him do it. I wanna watch,” Yoongi sneers as he leans against the door frame.

Taehyung ignores both of his friends. Instead, he leans over you and shakes you, calling your name a few times.

You wake with a start, throwing a mean right hook right onto Taehyung’s chin.

Taehyung gasps and curses, feeling blood spill from his lip where one of your knuckles grazed him.

“Told ya!” Hoseok sings while Yoongi cackles.

“I taught her that.”

“You must be so proud,” Taehyung spits as he lifts his shirt to dab at the blood spilling from the cut on his lip.

“I am actually,” Yoongi beams with pride.

Taehyung rolls his eyes while Hoseok shoves him aside. He gets on the bed and gently shakes you, calling your name. “Come on, beautiful. We’ve gotta get up. There’s a ton to do today, my love.”

Slowly you open your eyes, yawning as Hoseok coos until you’re rubbing your eyes.

“What’s going on?”

“You fell asleep in Tae’s bed and punched him.” Yoongi fills you in with a cackle.

Your eyes lock onto Taehyung’s, an apology already on your lips. “You tried to wake me?”

Taehyung nods.

“Oops! I wake up throwing punches thanks to Yoongi. If I get scared, I throw punches first, ask questions later.” You inform him.

“My little boxer,” Yoongi grins. “We gotta get you in the ring with Kookie. Maybe you can get a few in before he cheats.”

“My money’s on Kook.” Hoseok smiles. “Sorry, doll.”

“Same,” you agree, sighing. “I haven’t been practicing.”

“Anyway, busy day,” Hoseok states again, helping you out of bed and leading you urgently out of Tae’s room.

“We’ll see you later,” Yoongi waves before following you to Alea’s room.

Taehyung has no choice but to watch you leave.

“What was that?” Hoseok is immediately grilling you when you shut the door.

“What was what?” Your confusion is obvious on your face.

“That!” Hoseok exclaims. “You were in bed together!”

“Sleeping,” you furrow your brows. “Nothing happened.”

“You cuddled!” Yoongi shouts, and you clamp your hand over his big mouth.

“We just slept. We were gonna watch a movie and I guess I fell asleep.”

“Oh, the old movie and sleep play, nice,” Yoongi rolls his eyes.

“It was innocent!”

“It was horny!” Hoseok gasps.

“It may have been a little horny,” you squeak. “He smelled so good! Okay, but nothing happened. We slept, and I drooled on his pillow a little and he admitted to having like five hookups after we broke up and I’m still utterly in love with him!”

“Oof!” Yoongi chuckles. “Bring it down, you want him to know?!”

“No! I’m just, ahhh!” You shout.

Hoseok bites back a smile. “So you’ve made progress.”

“I didn’t come here to make progress. I came here for a wedding!”

“We all came here for a wedding, doll.” Yoongi chimes in. “But I think a few of us are getting a little more than we bargained for.”

You find it odd that he’s not looking at you and suddenly Hoseok is red in the face and sweating.

“Anyway, let me get ready and I’ll meet you downstairs. You can fill in Alea, but nobody else!” You point a sharp finger at them and they nod, saluting you as they leave you to get dressed.

You rest your back against the shut door wondering what you’ve gotten yourself into.

“We need outfits for the rehearsal,” Hoseok informs Alea once you’re done with her errands.

“You didn’t get a dress?” She asks, looking at you with a frown.

“No, I’m sorry! My boss was being a total ass once I turned in my notice,” you frown, breathing in and out a few times to calm yourself.

“Okay, I know a place we can get you a dress, and then I’ll see if Taehyung can get Hoseok something,” Alea suggests.

“Why don’t you have him meet us at the mall?” Yoongi suggests and Alea brightens.

“That’s a wonderful idea. Do you mind?” Alea asks you, knowing that despite recent developments the two of you were still trying to get along.

“No problem. I’m sure he’ll be of help,” you assure her. Alea nods in excitement, immediately calling Tae and asking him to meet at the mall as soon as possible.

You sit back in your seat, listening to Hoseok singing Christmas carols once again and you can only pray the afternoon isn’t a complete disaster.

“Alea!” Taehyung calls, waving his arm in the air. He’s donned sunglasses and a beanie and for a moment you remember he’s an international supermodel. Whoops!

“Hey! We’ve got a mission,” Alea says, leading the group to a mall map nearby. “These are the stores we’re hitting and if we find nothing, I know a few boutiques around town that may have something.”

“I can just borrow something from Jimin or Yoongi,” Hoseok offers.

“Not a chance! We need something new for the two of you. We’re all taking photos,” Alea takes off in direction of the first store and the four of you follow.

“This one isn’t fitting right,” you complain as you come out of the dressing room. The sleeve falls over your shoulder and you hold the material to your chest while clasping the back of it. “I hate it.”

“We’ve been to three shops already,” Yoongi whines. “We’re not gonna find anything here.”

“We found Hoseok a suit. We just need a button-down shirt and tie.”

“Just wait for Tae to come back. Maybe he’s got something for you two?” Alea pleads and you give in before going back into the dressing room.

Shortly there’s a knock on the door, and you’re peeking your head out.

Taehyung hands you a dress in a deep purple with silver details on the sweetheart neckline. “Try this one on, doll.”

“Thanks. If this works out, then you’re my savior. I’m tired of trying dresses on,” you pout, taking the dress and shutting the door.

“I do live to make dreams come true,” Taehyung giggles.

“Hm, I doubt that,” Hoseok scoffs. Taehyung flips him off, handing him a dress shirt and shoving him into the dressing room beside you. “Try that on and shut your trap.”

Alea and Yoongi leave the immediate area, searching for backups in case Taehyung’s picks don’t fit well or aren’t what any of you are looking for. Taehyung, however, is confident with his selections. After all, fashion was his business.

“Taehyung! Come in here!” Hoseok calls and in his hurry to help, Taehyung opens the first door he sees, and unfortunately, it’s yours.

“Ahhh!” You scream, startled. Fortunately, you’re dressed so Taehyung doesn’t get a peek. Your heart is pounding in your chest and you place a hand over your heart as you calm down.

“Sorry, I thought this was Hoseok’s,” Taehyung is quick to apologize, his face heating with embarrassment.

“No worries,” you breathe. “I was dressed. What do you think?”

You step out of the dressing room, twirling for Taehyung, and he’s breathless. You’re certainly a sight to behold. The dress hugs your body just right, accentuating every bit of you that draws the eye and you adore it.

“You look marvelous,” Taehyung says honestly, licking his lips as he takes you in. He wishes he could touch your skin, plant kisses on your shoulders, and leave love bites on the curve of your neck. “Beautiful.”

You turn to face Taehyung, his eyes locked on yours. He reaches forward to push a lock of your hair behind your ear, and for a moment you fall into the past. You know what’s coming; you hope for it as his gaze intensifies and his eyes grow hooded. You lean into his touch, breath caught in your throat as he leans forward, his pretty lips just a millimeter from your own.

“Did this ding dong really open your door?” Hoseok huffs as he pushes his door open after having finished buttoning up his shirt

The two of you jump in surprise, putting distance between you as Hoseok comes into view. You try to act normal but your chest is heaving and so is Taehyung’s.

“What’s going on between you?” Hoseok looks at you and then at Taehyung with a raised brow.

“N-nothing,” Taehyung stutters. Fuck, he thinks. Hoseok knows that’s his tell.

“Uh-huh. I’ll let it slide 'cause I wanna go home but you two are acting suspicious. ” Hoseok claims as he turns to look at you, smiling.

“Well, don’t you look absolutely gorgeous! Spin for me, babe! Let’s see those curves,” Hoseok motions for you to spin and Taehyung could kiss him when you turn to show your back. Hey, Taehyung can appreciate the human body and more so when it’s yours.

“We’re getting that dress!” Alea cheers as she approaches with Yoongi in tow. “You look fantastic!”

“Doesn’t she?!” Hoseok is nodding. Uncaring that his shirt has gone unnoticed, he’d rather go home so he’ll purchase it, anyway. It’s not his wedding day after all.

“Turn around,” Alea demands and you do so. Again, Taehyung is thanking his lucky stars as your ass comes into view and he steps away, turning to fan his face.

“Do not get a boner right now,” he grits, inhaling and exhaling a few times before you’re heading back into the dressing room to change into your clothing.

Alea and Hoseok discuss where to get dinner, but her mother calls and asks you all to come home to eat. After Hoseok changes and you pay for your dress, you pile into Alea’s car to go home.

Taehyung sticks around the mall after you’re gone. He looks around one shop, looking at all the jewelry in the cases before spotting a cute snowflake necklace. It would be a perfect gift for Christmas, maybe by then, the two of you could actually call each other friends… Perhaps more.

WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 22

The day has escaped you for the most part. You’ve been in and out of nail salons, meeting with makeup artists, and shopping for shoes and accessories for your dress.

Hoseok tagged along for most of it but around lunch time he got picked up by Yoongi and left. You hadn’t heard a peep from either of them in hours.

Now, you were sitting in Jungkook’s room with Jimin and Taehyung, both of who occupied the bed on either side of you. Namjoon had strolled in, taking a seat on the floor as Jungkook and Taehyung played some game on the TV.

Jimin and you had been giggling beside each other, watching TikToks on your phone while you waited for dinner plans.

“I’ve got to meet Seokjin for dinner,” Namjoon sighs after a while. “More family is flying in and I don’t know if I should be happy they’re all here for Christmas or annoyed that they’re all here for Christmas.”

“It could be worse,” you shrug. “He could have picked a different wedding date, and you’d have to see them twice instead of all at once.”

Namjoon ponders your words for a few seconds. “You know what? You’re right. Thank you, Seokjin.”

You giggle, hugging him goodbye when he’s ready to leave. Jungkook barely blinks as Namjoon departs and Taehyung isn’t much better beside him. You stretch out your foot, bumping Taehyung.

“I’m hungry,” you whine.

“Eat,” he responds, and you huff, kicking his knee.

“But I’m a guest. Aren’t you supposed to feed me? Do you want me telling mom none of you fed me?”

Jungkook stiffens. “Time for dinner!”

You smirk. “Thank you, Kookie, I knew I could count on you. My favorite Kim brother.”

“Hey!” Taehyung protests. “What about me?!”

“What about you?” Jungkook cackles as he throws his controller and throws himself over you and Jimin.

“I’ve always been the favorite Kim!” Taehyung guffaws, jokingly.

“That was before. Now it’s Kookie. He’s gonna feed me,” you giggle.

“I gave you ice cream the other day!”

“But what are you feeding me right now?”

Silence.

“Exactly,” you click your tongue. “Nothing.”

“Come on!” Jimin grunts as he pushes his muscular boyfriend off your lap. “Let’s eat before I have to listen to you two fighting all night.”

“Food! Food! Food!” Jungkook chants as he climbs off the bed with Jimin.

You get up, followed by Taehyung, and head down the stairs. You pile into the living room, debating what to order while Jimin picks out a movie to watch.

Once your food is ordered, you curl up on one end of the couch while Taehyung flops down beside you. Jimin and Jungkook take the recliner and you coo at them.

“We’ve got a busy day tomorrow,” you groan.

“Every day has been a busy day,” Jimin pouts. He turns to Jungkook. “When we get married, let’s elope on the beach somewhere.”

“Deal,” Jungkook sticks his pinkie out for Jimin to make a promise. He does so.

“I don’t blame you. This whole wedding thing is a hassle. I don’t think I could handle the stress,” you say as you pull the blanket over you and Taehyung.

“I thought you wanted a big wedding?” Taehyung asks curiously. He refrains from saying, “at least you did when we were together.”

“I don’t know. It’s just a lot,” you sigh giddily. “Having to plan everything and making sure nothing goes wrong. I don’t think I could handle it.”

“You could get a wedding planner,” Jimin suggests.

“And where am I getting the groom?” You roll your eyes playfully. Taehyung places his hand on your knee beneath the blanket and for a second you freeze, turning to face him.

However, Jungkook is quick to ruin save the moment by saying, “I hear Tinder’s a good place.”

You burst out laughing, shaking your head at the youngest. “What do you know about Tinder?”

“I know men send unsolicited dick pics,” Jungkook gags. “No, thanks.”

“Yeah, unfortunately, that part’s right,” You shudder.

“You have a Tinder?” Jimin smiles from ear to ear.

“I deleted it!”

“You’re no fun,” Jimin huffs, kissing Jungkook’s cheek as the doorbell rings announcing the arrival of your food

“Kook! Come help me with this!” Jimin calls and Jungkook is quick to rise to his feet to help his boyfriend.

You’re left alone with Taehyung, his hand still on your knee and he squeezes it once before releasing it.

“For what it’s worth, I always pictured you as my bride,” he whispers before he’s rising from his seat and heading to the kitchen to help Jimin and Jungkook.

You’re left in silence, mind whirling a million miles a minute, trying to process his words before heat flushes across your cheeks and your heart flutters like the wings of a hummingbird.

Maybe, just maybe, Taehyung still held romantic feelings for you.

THURSDAY DECEMBER 23

“He said what ?” Hoseok and Yoongi ask at the same time. Yoongi could barely contain himself from spitting out his drink.

“That’s what he said! Don’t make me repeat it! I’m already overthinking it,” you whine in annoyance. The first thing you did this morning was climb out of bed without waking Alea and now you were confiding in your best friends. And they were in awe just like you had been. Perhaps you should have told Alea, but she had enough on her plate without you dragging her into this “will they or won’t they” debacle you had going on with her brother.

“He still loves you,” Hoseok blurts.

Yoongi smacks him.

“What? You don’t say something like that and not love the person. She’s not an idiot!” Hoseok defends.

“Do love him?” Yoongi asks you seriously. He wouldn’t meddle but he did want to know.

“I do. I know we’re grown now and we’re different from who we were and I don’t want to confuse these feelings for past ones but we’ve been getting close this week and I think there could be something there. Am I in way over my head? Should I put some distance between us?”

“Yes.”

“No.”

“Gee, thanks, guys. Glad I came to you for help,” you scoff with a roll of your eyes.

“Look, we just want what’s best for you. We don’t want you getting hurt. Remember, we were both there for you when you broke up and it crushed us to see you both struggling. Hoseok went with you and I stayed to be with Taehyung,” Yoongi admits.

Hoseok nods, his hand lacing with Yoongi’s.

No! Your eyes widen and tears pool in your eyes.

“Please tell me you didn’t!” You gasp, a sob escaping you.

“We thought it would be for the best,” Hoseok states as he pulls you toward them to hug you.

“Oh, Hobi!” You wrap your arms around his neck, sobbing into his shoulder. Yoongi pats your back before you launch yourself at him. “I don’t deserve either of you. How could I not notice? And then you let me sleep in your bed! How could you! I was third wheeling for years!”

“Yeahhhh,” Yoongi laughs. “But it’s what we decided. We love you all and we wanted to keep the group together. Which is why when you announced you could work from anywhere, we were hoping you’d be moving back into town.”

“And with that hope, we started looking for apartments just in case,” Hoseok admits nervously biting his lip.

“I could kiss you!” You scream, throwing your arms around both of them.

Yoongi raises a brow.

“But I won’t!” You quickly state with a laugh. “Who else knows?”

“Just you, Jimin, and Jungkook. Those two caught us making out that night I came home drunk,” Hoseok shrugs. “We were making out on the front step.”

“That’s when I fell asleep in Taehyung’s bed. Did you plan that?”

“Nope,” Yoongi laughs. “You walked your sweet butt into his bed on your own.”

You groan, slapping a hand over your face. “I’ve got it bad for Kim Taehyung.”

“You can say that again!”

The afternoon crawls by slowly. The TV in the living room is taken up by the Kim’s family (both families) and guests with Seokjin and Alea at the center of attention, and Namjoon battling questions of “When is it your turn?”

Hoseok, Yoongi, Jimin, and Jungkook have gone out on a double date with the offer extended to you but you declined, preferring to stay home and perhaps visit your dad. After all, you’d be going back home for a while once the wedding passed.

“Doll?” Taehyung asks as he knocks gently on the door. He waits for you to invite him in before he steps inside his sister’s room.

“What’s up, Tae?”

“I was wondering if you wanted to have a snack. I snuck some food from downstairs and I was gonna watch a movie. I was hoping you’d wanna join,” he bites his lip, his hands shoved into the front pockets of his jeans.

“Sure,” you agree. You take your charger out of the outlet and pocket your phone before rising to your feet and following him to his bedroom.

“I can’t stay all night,” you inform him once you climb into his bed. Taehyung nods as he shuts his bedroom door nearly all the way.

“That’s fine. Stay as long as you’d like,” he offers you a cookie and some delicious-looking chocolate cake that makes your mouth water.

“Please tell me this is your mom’s double chocolate cake with the chocolate ganache and hazelnut filling,” you nearly drool looking at it.

Taehyung giggles. “It might be.”

“Shut up! This is the best cake ever!” You exclaim, making grabby hands at him as he hands you a thick slice of cake. You moan after the first bite and the second, wiggling in your spot as you devour the slice and even take half of Tae’s.

“If I knew this would get you home, I’d have asked mom to tempt you with it,” he laughs once he sets the plates down on his nightstand.

“It’s so good! I definitely missed it! I loved when she’d make it on my birthday.”

“Maybe she can make it next year,” Taehyung smiles as he scoots just a little bit closer.

“Hopefully,” you agree with a nod, feeling butterflies swirl in your stomach. “Hopefully.”

A few hours pass before you’re checking the time on your phone and announce your need to depart.

“Dad should be home any minute and I wanted to see him for a bit before things get more hectic around here,” you tell Taehyung as you get out of bed and pocket your phone.

“Can I come with you? It’s been a while since I’ve seen your dad,” he admits sheepishly.

You pause for a moment before nodding. “Yeah, okay. I’m sure he’d love to see Vogue’s newest model with four covers.”

Taehyung blushes. “It was actually six.”

“Six! Wow! You’re a total hottie, aren’t you?” You wink, taking his hand in yours before you can fluster him further.

Taehyung can feel his pulse skyrocketing as you lead him down the stairs, letting his mother know the two of you will be next door with your father should she need either of you. She wishes you good luck and shuts the door after you before returning to her guests.

Once you’re on the front porch, you’re just in time to see your father pulling into his driveway with a tree tied to the roof of his car.

“Dad!” You call out to him as you approach with Taehyung in tow.

Your dad gets out of his car with a grin. “Hey, sweetheart. Oh, and little Tae-Tae! I haven’t seen you in ages! How’s life on the runway?”

“It’s good,” Taehyung grins. “Keeps me busy sometimes.”

“You do a damn good job. I got one of your covers on the coffee table,” your dad chuckles, and Taehyung blushes.

“Dad!” You whine.

“How about you help me get the tree in the house and we can liven the place up a little bit? I’ve been thinking it’s about time I get into the Christmas spirit again,” your dad says as he wraps you up in a hug. You hug him tightly, fighting back the tears that threaten to spill.

“Of course, dad. Anything you need,” you squeeze him one last time before you’re wiping at your eyes and helping him and Taehyung with the tree.

It takes a few minutes to get it set up in the home and you admire the beautiful tree. This house already feels like a home by a simple addition. You’re not entirely sure if you’ll be moving back to town much less back in with your dad but you hope he’ll open himself up to more people and maybe some new friends so he won’t be so lonely anymore. His world began and ended with your mother and though he still has you, you know how lonely it can feel to be alone, even with Hobi at your side.

Taehyung helps your father get the decorations from the attic and slowly the three of you take out the ones so near and dear to your mother. While Taehyung wraps the Christmas lights around the tree, your father plays Christmas carols from his TV and you’re left to bake cookies in the oven.

When those are done, you join your father and Taehyung in the living room.

“This was the first ornament she made us,” your dad says as he holds up the clay ornament with his thumbprint and your mother’s in the shape of a heart, it has the date of their first Christmas engraved in it.

A few more ornaments have special dates on them, one has an ultrasound of you, and another has your tiny little footprint. Your dad shows them to you proudly, recounting the stories that come with each one and the more obscure decorations. An armadillo from a mall in texas, a snake from the desert on their ruined honeymoon, and a hummingbird from the sale at the zoo on your first trip. Your father��s voice fills with joy at the memories, and Taehyung listens just as intently as you do, not knowing these stories at all. He almost feels like he’s intruding but your father never makes him feel that way. No, instead your father tells stories of your childhood, and how your mothers instantly clicked and you were begging to go play next door every single day until Mrs. Kim offered to watch you while your parents worked.

You remember those days. Days spent in their backyard running around with Alea and Taehyung. Laughter bubbled from your chest as Taehyung tried to keep up with you two until Jungkook was old enough to help catch you. You remember the days out in the front lawn, covered in chalk and crying when your drawing got ruined by the afternoon rain, only for Taehyung to comfort you with ice cream and a sticky smile. You remember falling in love in the late summer evening with the wind in your hair and Taehyung in your eyes. His laughter always soothed you and his smile always left your heart skipping a beat when it was directed your way. From spilling juice boxes to spilling secrets, Taehyung was the one you’d confide in when things got rough and Alea wasn’t around. When you felt like your world was crumbling around you and he was the only one who could build it back up.

When your eyes meet Taehyung’s, you’re aware he’s thinking the same. His hand reaches for yours and you gladly allow him to hold it. Your father smiles warmly but says nothing as he fakes a yawn and says he better get in bed.

You hug him goodbye with Taehyung in tow, showing yourself out and standing on the front porch.

“Thank you for coming with me tonight,” you thank him with a kiss to his cheek. Taehyung blushes, assuring you it was nothing as he looks upward with his bashfulness. It is then you follow his gaze and see the mistletoe hanging over your head, your father must have put that up there when you weren’t looking. It was a favorite of your mother’s, always kissing your father when he’d be standing under the threshold.

“Oh, uh…” Taehyung is speechless. Cheeks rosy pink and mouth suddenly dry with nervousness. His awkward chuckle makes you smile as you lean forward and press your lips to his.

Taehyung is in shock! He was not expecting you to make such a bold move and kiss him. He stands frozen for a second before his large hands cup your face, holding you close as he moves his lips in sync with yours. Old memories and feelings rise from the depths of your chest, bright and warm, and thrilling as you kiss on the front porch.

Soft and slow your lips love together, never too rough or too sloppy. Taehyung has always been an amazing kisser, always drawing the softest of moans from your lips, always leaving you wanting more, craving more. Of him, of his touch, of his love…

Taehyung is everything you’d ever want in a man.

Giggling, you somehow make it to his bedroom and past all the guests occupied in the kitchen and living room. Nobody bats an eye as you clamber up the stairs, stealing kisses and hushing each other until you’re stumbling into his bedroom, shutting the door after you and locking it to keep everyone out.

Taehyung smiles before he’s kissing you again pressed to his bedroom door just like old times when the two of you would sneak away from gatherings for a few minutes alone.

He tastes of cherry chapstick and sugar cookies, of warmth and familiarity as you tug on his t-shirt, bunching the red cotton material in your hands, wrinkling it before releasing him. Taehyung chuckles, easily tugging the shirt over his head to discard it on his bedroom floor.

Part of him wonders if you’re both moving too fast but the other part of him knows this has been a long time coming. With a kiss, you’re silencing his doubts, hands running over his honeyed skin as a tingle runs down his spine.

Taehyung holds your hips tightly, almost afraid you’ll disappear as you move to the bed, falling with him on top of you.

Your hands make quick work of his pants, allowing him a moment to kick them off while you do the same, left in nothing but your shirt and underwear.

Taehyung kisses you slowly, savoring every bit of your skin his lips touch, moaning when you arch into him and beg him for more. His name is a constant on your lips, curses spilling and thighs quivering when he settles between them.

Your name escapes him in a soft moan that leaves your head spinning, his warm hands under your shirt, feeling the softness of your skin and for a moment he thinks back to all the promises he made about making you his , about making you a family . His cock throbs at the thought, hungry eyes focused on your hips as he bunches the shirt in his hands and helps you out of it.

Your white bra welcomes him, a cute lacy thing with a clasp in the front that meets his teeth in his overeagerness to see your tits once again. He’s dreamed of this moment for years, dreamed of tasting you once again and as he tears the clasp open and your breasts spill out freely, Taehyung growls from deep in his chest and covers every bit of you in wet kisses.

A manicured hand greets Taehyung’s curly locks. His mouth wrapped around a pert nipple, licking and flicking his tongue as he sucks it into his mouth just to hear you moan his name. Burning with desire, you tug on his hair begging for more as your panties grow wet with arousal. You’re rubbing against him, feeling the outline of his cock pressed to you as he continues to devour your tits in kisses and suckles that make your head spin.

Taehyung is not shy about leaving his mark behind though he’s courteous enough to leave it only in places he will be able to see. After all, the wedding rehearsal is tomorrow and the wedding the day after. Alea would gut him like a fish if she saw your skin when he was done with you.

No, instead he kisses his way down the valley of your breasts, teeth nipping at the skin, hands feeling very inch of softness beneath his palms. His cock throbs and drools pre-cum in his boxers, rutting into the mattress in search of relief but finds none.

However, he’s not deterred in the slightest. He knows once he’s got you bare, he’ll get a taste of that sweet pussy he’s been missing all these years and that alone is enough.

“Taehyung,” you moan as his teeth nip your skin once again. He smirks, licking his lips as he meets your gaze.

“That’s it, baby. Let everyone know who’s making you feel this good.” his saccharine tone makes your thighs press together, too eager and too wet to think of much else as he grips your panties with his teeth and tugs.

“Fuck!” You gasp as he tugs them down your legs, tossing them to the other side of the bed before he’s grabbing your legs and pulling you toward him with your knees over his broad shoulders.

“Play with your tits for me, doll.” He commands as he presses kisses up one thigh and down the other, decorating them beautifully with his lips and tongue. You flush when you see the hunger in his eyes, intent on devouring you. If only you knew how long he’s been waiting for this moment…

Taehyung doesn’t waste much time, his tongue licking a stripe up your folds and a guttural moan escaping him upon getting the first taste. Like a man starved, he goes in for seconds and thirds, adding two of his fingers into the mix while his tongue circles your clit.

“Tae! Fuck, please,” you’re unsure of what you’re begging for but your thighs tremble in his hold as he dives in again, lips wrapped around your clit. His fingers curl inside you while you try to squeeze his head with your lush thighs.

“That’s it, love. Don’t be afraid to let go,” he says, licking his lips as his thumb rubs your clit. He still knows your body like the back of his hand, knows how much pressure and what actions will get you to combust . He’s not surprised when you grip the sheets, your other hand in his mess of curls as you bite your lip to stifle the moans he so greedily earned.

Your cunt clenches around his fingers, milking them as your high hits and Taehyung is quick to muffle your scream with a kiss. His tongue meets yours and you relax beneath him once you’ve orgasmed, kissing him deeply and not ever wanting to come up for air but unfortunately you do.

Taehyung slowly pulls his soaked fingers from your pussy, bringing them to his lips. He makes sure you’re watching when he slips them into his mouth, licking each digit clean before sucking your juices completely off them. With a lewd pop! he releases them, smiling smugly when you’re licking your lips.

Not wanting to waste a moment, you kiss him again, tasting yourself on his tongue as your hand cups his erection over his boxers.

“Take these off, Tae. I wanna feel you,” you whisper in between kisses. Taehyung is quick to take them off, kicking them over the edge of the bed as you spit in your hand before wrapping it around him. You collect pre-cum on your thumb, using it to smear around the head of his cock while you stroke him. His forehead falls on your shoulder, a whimper escaping him as he admits, “I’ve missed this. I’ve thought of you every single night since you left.”

“Tae,” you say his name in response but he shushes you. “Later. I promise. We’ll talk later.”

With a nod you agree, kissing him again as you spread your legs for him once again. He kisses his way to your neck, his hand over yours as he rubs the head of his cock against your folds, collecting your arousal on his dick before rubbing your clit with it. You sigh heavenly, so sweet and blissful before he’s even inside you and it makes him that much harder.

“I love you,” he mouths at the same time your eyes squeeze shut when he sinks in. Your manicured nails dig into his back as the air is knocked out of your lungs. How could you have forgotten how big and thick he was? You moan, biting into his shoulder as the stretch rattles you to the very core but you welcome him in any way.

“Fuck, baby. You’re so fucking tight,” he curses, kissing any bit of you within reach as you take his cock like a champ. You hug him tightly, exhaling when he finally bottoms out and you bury your face in the crook of his neck.

“I forgot how fucking big your stupid dick is,” you admit with a strangled laugh. Taehyung chuckles, apologizing with a kiss.

“You forgot, baby?” Taehyung teases, pulling out a bit, just to slam back into you to take your breath away.

“Shit, Tae. Oh, fuck,” you groan, eyes rolling to the back of your head. “Fuck, baby. I-I don’t know how I could have ever forgotten. Best dick I’ve ever had hands down.”

Taehyung smirks. “That’s right, baby. Mine’s the only dick you need, huh?”

“Yes,” you gasp as he pulls out again and slams back into you. He laughs at your reaction, one hand on the bed beside your head and the other gripping your chin.

“Look at me,” he says your name with such intensity, you swear you almost come. Fuck, he’s ruining you and he hasn’t even gotten started yet.

His thumb traces your lips and you allow him to do so before you’re wrapping your lips around him, licking the flat of his thumb before releasing him. Taehyung growls, eyes dark and filled with lust as he kisses you, hips rolling against yours as he sets a steady pace that has you both trying to muffle your moans.

Taehyung bites down on your breast, taking a hard nipple into his mouth while you drag your nails down the length of his back. Your pussy tightens around him, lost in intense pleasure as your head falls back into the pillows, his name on your lips as your thighs tremble around his hips.

“I’ve missed this, baby. I’ve missed you so much,” he admits in between mind-numbing thrusts that leave you seeing stars behind your eyes.

Your fingers lace with his, moaning softly as you feel your body building to its high from deep inside you. Warmth pools deep in your abdomen, your breathing grows heavy and you’re struggling to contain your moans.

“I missed you too, Tae. So much. You’re the only one I’ve been able to think about. Don’t want anybody else but you,” you admit in the heat of the moment and that seems to set him off.

Taehyung growls, hungrily kissing you as you both rock against each other, moans muffled by the other’s lips until you’re finally cumming around his cock, creaming around it just like he loves so much.

He moans your name into your skin, face buried in your neck as his thrusts falter and his moans grow whinier.

“Come for me, Tae. Fuck me full of your cum, baby. I want to have all of you, please ,” you beg and Taehyung is only happy to oblige. He moans your name, crying it out into your shoulder as pleasure courses through his body and his cock pulses inside you, cumming deep within you and moaning with each spurt that’s released.

“Fuck me,” he sighs as he finishes. Hair matted to his forehead with sweat and a small smile on the corner of his lips. “Fuck.”

You giggle as he rolls off you, panting.

Taehyung is immediately wrapped around you, planting kisses on your cheek, lips, and neck. He doesn’t want to let you go, afraid if he does then it’ll all be a dream.

You place your hand over his, lacing your fingers with his. You smile as you look at him, and your heart flutters in your chest.

“I missed you,” you admit, tracing circles on the back of his hand.

“I missed you too, baby. I meant it when I said you were the only one I ever thought about. I flew home the second Alea said you’d be coming for the wedding.” Taehyung is bashful with his confession but you find him endearing.

“I’m sorry for what I said that night.” You swallow thickly as you sit up, knowing you have to say something or it’ll continue eating you up inside.

“I should have gone with you or something but I was so hurt. Everyone knew except me and I was so mad at you,” you explain with a frown. “I didn’t want to lose you and I did, anyway. I’m sorry, Tae. I didn’t mean it.”

“Hey,” Taehyung is quick to wipe your tears away. “Don’t cry, baby. I should have told you when I found out but I knew you’d be upset. I wanted you to come with me but you had college and I couldn’t have supported us in Paris. Not right off the bat, anyway.”

“We could have figured it out, but I never gave us a fighting chance,” you sigh.

“Maybe or maybe we would have broken up somehow. We can’t be fixated on the what-ifs, baby. I'm here now and so are you. I’ve made a name for myself and I can give you everything you could possibly need. I just want you in my life again. I was miserable without you.”

“I just want you, Tae. Nobody compares to you, nobody even comes close.”

“Stay with me tonight. Just stay and once the wedding is over we can talk it all out, okay?”

“Okay,” you agree, kissing Taehyung on the cheek before snuggling into his side. You know you should get up and go to the bathroom to get cleaned up but you feel so safe and warm in his embrace, you decide to hold off a little longer but before you know it, you’re fast asleep with the love of your life wrapped around you.

FRIDAY DECEMBER 24

Morning comes sooner than you’d like. You try to keep your eyes shut to cling to the last bit of sleep knowing you have a busy day ahead of you but you can’t be arsed to leave the warmth of your bed.

“Baby, wake up,” you groan at the soft voice, your hand shooting out from under the sheet to shut them up. A deep chuckle rumbles under you and you open your eyes with alarm.

“Good morning,” Taehyung whispers and last night’s events come rushing to you. You’re still naked in his bed and the morning sun is just rising over the horizon and peeking through the cracks in his curtains.

“Five more minutes,” you whine.

“No more minutes,” he snorts. “We need to sneak you out of here.”

“Tae, we don’t have to sneak around like teenagers anymore. We’re grownups now, remember?”

Taehyung laughs quietly. “Yeah, but unless you want Alea to lose her mind over us, we need to get you out of here.”

You groan. You hate when he’s right.

“How much time do we have?”

“I’d say about thirty minutes,” Taehyung answers. You nod, turning to him and kissing him, morning breath be damned. Taehyung is taken by surprise but kisses you eagerly, moaning when your hand wraps around his semi-hard cock until it’s hard in your hand.

“Doll,” he murmurs in between kisses. “We need to hurry.”

“Just a quickie, Tae. I promise it’ll be fast. I just want to feel you inside me again. Want to think about you all day,” you moan as you straddle his hips, your wet cunt grinding against his cock. Taehyung curses, nodding as he holds your hips. You line his cock up at your entrance, taking every inch of him with a whine and a cry of his name.

“Fuck, love.” Taehyung rasps, head thrown back into the pillows as your warmth envelops him. “Ride my cock, baby. Please.”

His soft pleas are all you need to ride him, ignoring the burn in your thighs as your nails dig into his chest. You lean down to connect your lips, kissing him passionately as you bounce on his dick. He’s so deep, so fucking deep and it makes your head spin. You do your best to muffle your moans by biting your lip, but it gets harder as he grabs your hips and lifts his to meet yours with each of his thrusts.

Taehyung’s eyes are focused on your bouncing tits, sitting up on an elbow to take one pert nipple into his mouth, teeth tugging gently as you lose yourself to the pleasure. Your nails dig into his chest, dragging down to his abdomen as your pussy tightens around him. So close.

Just like you promised, it doesn’t take much longer until you’re clenching around him, muffling your screams of pleasure in his chest as you come. Taehyung is close behind, biting back moans as he cums inside you once again.

You fall boneless on his chest, panting.

“Fuck, I could go for more but I’m afraid I’d end up split open at the hospital.”

Taehyung cackles, shaking his head as he runs his fingers through your hair. “You’re ridiculous, baby.”

“I’m honest,” you stick your tongue out at him before climbing off. Your muscles ache as you groan with each step you take to collect your clothing.

“I wish you could stay,” Tae pouts from his spot on the bed.

“Me too but we can talk on Sunday. We’ll have plenty of time,” you assure him as you finish getting dressed. You plant a kiss on his lips before you’re opening his bedroom door. You stick your head out into the hallway, only hearing his parents talking downstairs before you head to the bathroom to start the shower. You figure you can run to your room in a robe or towel after. Maybe you’ll be lucky enough and won’t wake Alea while looking for clothes.

“What the fuck is that?!” Hoseok gasps as he walks into Alea’s room without knocking.

“Hoseok!” You screech, shutting the door after him.

“Bitch! You’re covered in hickeys from the tits down!”

“Do you not have a mute setting?! Do you want Taehyung’s parents to find out he’s a cannibal!”

“TAEHYUNG?!?!” Ooh, you could strangle Hobi.

“Will you shut the fuck up?! My god,” you huff, covering his mouth with your hand. Hoseok takes a minute to calm down before he pulls your hand off his face.

“You and Tae fucked? When? How?”

“Yes, last night and this morning. Missionary and cowgirl,” you answered each of his questions and he grimaced.

“Ew! No, I meant how did it happen not how you took his dick. Damn bitch,” Hoseok shakes his head and you giggle.

“We were at my house setting up Christmas decorations and we ended up under the mistletoe and we kissed,” you gush.

“So how did a mistletoe kiss end with you taking Tae’s monster cock?”

“Don't call it that, you dork,” you roll your eyes. “I don’t know. I mean, we got back home, and we kept kissing. He said he missed me and we fucked.”

“So what happens now?”

“We’re gonna get through the wedding and talk on Sunday. We don’t want Alea or anyone getting their hopes up. You just don’t know how to knock,” you huff.

Hoseok holds his hands up in surrender. “I was just coming to tell you to hurry. How was I supposed to know Taehyung was a vampire? Sucking on your body like you’re his last meal and shit,” Hoseok tsks.

“Shut up! It was so good, too. I forgot how good he fucks me.” you sigh dreamily, the ache between your thighs making itself noticeable.

Hobi chuckles. “Well, aren’t you a sight for sore eyes now that you’ve gotten some dick? Tone it down though, or someone might suspect.”

“Thanks, Seok. I’ll keep that in mind. Now, can you leave so I can get dressed?”

“Ooh, sure thing. Come on, Barbie. Let’s go party!”

“Ooh-oh! Ohh-oh!”

Music fills the reception hall as you step inside. You’ve gotten a ride with Taehyung, Hoseok, and Yoongi.

Alea and Seokjin are greeting guests at the entrance. You’ve rehearsed your walk for the ceremony with Namjoon. They’ve gone through the whole thing and now you could relax until it was time for your speech.

Snow has started to fall outside, just a light sprinkle that doesn’t quite stick to the ground but Alea is worried about the forecast for tomorrow. As of now, everything is still on but there’s no plan B if the snow grows heavier.

For now, you focus on the present. You and Taehyung haven’t had a moment to yourselves all day, just like you thought. You’ve exchanged glances across the room, secret smiles, and friendly waves but you're yearning to kiss him, to have him press you to the wall and feel your body underneath your thin dress. The dress he picked out for you to wear tonight.

Coincidentally, or not, his tie matches your dress, and it reminds you of your Senior Prom where you danced the night away and shared stolen kisses behind the school’s auditorium.

Tonight, Taehyung looks charming in his suit and tie. His mop of chestnut brown hair was tamed for once in beautiful curls that frame his face beautifully. He really is a model.

Taehyung is all smiles as he greets his family, introducing you and your friends to a few before you excuse yourself to join Namjoon and Yoongi at the bar.

“Well boys, looks like we're getting our two eldest hitched,” you grin. Namjoon chuckles and Yoongi rolls his eyes.

“What? Are you next or something?” Yoongi teases and you scoff.

“Must you?”

“I must,” Yoongi smiles smugly as he raises his glass to his lips. Namjoon does the same to hide his confusion but you know Yoongi can’t help but prod and tease.

“Gonna fight me for the bouquet tomorrow?”

“I might, just so I can whack you over the head with it,” you mutter.

Namjoon smiles. “I’m sensing some hostility here and honestly, I’m off the clock as a therapist so I will see my way out. Stay safe.”

“You scared him off,” You frown.

Yoongi scoffs. “Please, it’s the holiday season and there’s an open bar. Connect the dots, doll.”

“Hm, you right,” you giggle as you chat with Yoongi, not feeling the need to socialize with everyone around. It’s been hard enough to get Alea and Seokjin alone to hang, much less have a quick chat, so you’ve kept yourself busy with Tae and visits with your father.

“You look phenomenal in your dress!” Jimin exclaims when he approaches you with Jungkook on his arm.

“Thanks! Tae picked it out for me, actually.”

“Is that so?” Jungkook raises a brow.

“Yeah?”

“Interesting,” Jimin comments with a sneer.

“Very interesting, indeed,” Jungkook agrees.

“Alright, twiddle-dumb and dumber, I’ve got other things to do,” Yoongi excuses himself and leaves you with them.

“Taehyung doesn’t pick out clothes for just anyone.” Jimin states matter of fact.

“He charged me $50 to pick out a shirt last time,” Jungkook rolls his eyes.

“And you paid him?” You ask incredulously.

Jungkook blushes. “Should I not have?”

"Oh, baby . We gotta talk about your spending habits,” Jimin coos, shaking his head as he walks away with a pouting Jungkook.

Taehyung comes over a second later, surprised when you smack his arm.

“Ow! What was that for?”

“Quit charging your brother for fashion advice!” You hiss.

Taehyung smirks. “Quickest $50 bucks I ever made.”

“Tae!”

“Fine,” he rolls his eyes. “I won’t charge Jungkook anymore for fashion advice.”

“Good.”

“I’ll charge him for brotherly advice,” Taehyung beams and you smack his arm again.

“Ah, the lovebirds getting along swimmingly,” Hoseok cackles as he arrives.

“You told him?” Tae asks in a whisper.

“He saw the hickeys you left on me, you animal,” you hiss.

“Yeah, you’ve got a mouth on you,” Hoseok nods.

“I left those where only I could see,” Taehyung growls.

“Hobi doesn’t know how to knock.”

“I said I was sorry. I thought you were asleep,” Hoseok responds hissing.

“Maybe you should knock from now on,” Taehyung suggests.

“I will if you’re trying to eat her alive,” Hoseok sticks his tongue out and turns on his heel, so much for pleasant dinner conversation.

“We should find our seats soon,” Taehyung says as he orders a drink from the bar. You nod in agreement, waiting for him to get his drink before walking to your table and finding your seat. You’ve forgotten all about your speech but you check to make sure it’s still in your tiny little purse. You sigh in relief when you spot it.

It’s not much longer till everyone makes their speech and yours is next. You’d rather not say anything but you’ve agreed and as Namjoon wraps up, you clap with all the others.

Rising to your feet, you introduce yourself. You admit you’re nervous and the guests laugh with you when you let out a little scream.

“Alright, for real this time! Hello, all! I’m the best friend and maid of honor,” you wave shyly. “I’m also known as Barbie Doll to the Kims because of the extensive collection of Barbies I still own in my parents’ home. Please see my dad if you’d like to purchase any of them,” the guests laugh as your dad waves his hand for everyone to see.

“From diaper days to barbie dolls and playing house, one thing has been consistent throughout our childhood games and that’s the love Alea and Seokjin share. From making him be her groom by force to him willingly becoming her groom through love, it’s been a magical love story and I’m very grateful to be a witness to it.” You smile at the happy couple, tears shining in your eyes just to see tears in theirs as well.

Taehyung is in awe of you. You look so cool and confident as you read from your cue notes, smiling brightly at the guests and locking eyes with him as you go down memory lane.

He’s not surprised a lot of your anecdotes include him in some way or another, and as you wrap up, he knows he’s not the only one who had noticed. Your mutual friends are looking between you, wondering if something is up, but it’s all forgotten when Alea takes the mic to thank everyone.

“Seokjin and I want to say thank you for joining us. Our wedding is tomorrow afternoon and we could not be happier to share our special moment with each one of you. So thank you once again and please, enjoy yourselves this evening.”

Cheers and claps fill the hall as dinner gets served and you’re stuck in your chair until dessert is served.

Music fills the reception hall soon after dinner is done and you’re finally released from your maid-of-honor duties to party. Alea and Seokjin take over the dance floor, egged on by Jungkook, Jimin, and Namjoon, who’ve spent the night drinking away.

Yoongi and Hoseok are nowhere to be seen but you make a note to avoid any supply closets or dark corners they could have hidden themselves away for a moment.

Taehyung appears at your side, a soft smile on his lips as he wraps an arm around your waist.

“Tae!” You gasp, giggling as you set your drink aside. “Someone will see us!”

“Half of them already know,” he smirks, looking over his broad shoulder to make sure the coast is clear before kissing your cheek. Heat spreads across your skin, hiding your smile behind your hand.

“We promised we wouldn’t steal their thunder,” you remind him.

Taehyung crosses his fingers over his heart. “We won’t. I’m just asking for a dance.”

“Just a dance?” You raise a brow as you take his hand.

“And maybe another kiss under the mistletoe,” he wiggles his eyebrows suggestively and you playfully roll your eyes.

“Come on, Romeo. Show me what you’ve got,” you tease as you join the couples on the dance floor, staying near the edge away from the happy couple. Taehyung holds you carefully in his arms, dancing and smiling so wide his cute cheeks hurt but he doesn’t care. He never imagined how wonderful it would be to have you in his arms again and to know the two of you were heading toward your own happy ending.

“Taehyung,” you giggle when he spins you, bringing you in closer.

“Yes, my love?” He’s all smiles as you press yourself to his chest, lips a hair’s breadth away. Your body tingles, lips craving the taste of his and it’s like everything melts away into the background. You miss the curious gazes of your friends, bumping into each other with their breath caught in their throats as they wait for a kiss.

“Can I cut in?” You break apart from Taehyung with a nod once you hear your father’s voice.

“I’ll be around, doll,” Taehyung assures you. He waves at your father, before disappearing into the crowd.

“I didn’t mean to interrupt, darling,” Your father says as he takes your hand in his, dancing with you. “Lord, it’s been so long since I’ve danced. Good to know it’s like riding a bike.”

“What was your wedding like?” You ask as you sway to the music.

“Small, we didn’t have a lot of friends and family around. Honestly, we planned it in a week,” your dad chuckles as he spins you. His smile grows brighter as he tells you all about it, dancing the whole time until one song turns to three and he’s letting you go.

“I’m heading home,” he states. “It’s getting late and my bed is calling.”

“Text me when you get home safe, dad,” you hug him tight, fighting the tears that threaten to spill. “I love you.”

“I will. I love you too, darling. I’m glad you came home for Christmas. It’s been so nice having you around,” with that said, he released you and headed out.

Alone on the dance floor, you decide to freshen up in the bathroom. You grab your purse from under the table and head out of the reception hall, down a hallway until you see the restrooms.

Pushing the door open, you’re greeted by an empty couch and a few stalls further inside with a few guests lingering about and chatting as you head to a sink. You open your purse, take out a few makeup wipes to dab at your eyes, and then redo your lipstick. You check your teeth, pop a mint and close your purse once all your belongings are safe inside.

With a smile, you head for the exit. Your heels click against the marble flooring, announcing your presence long before you appear.

You reach the reception hall entrance, pausing when you hear a familiar chuckle from the other end of the hall around the corner that leads to the kitchen.

Curiously, you take a step forward as quietly as possible, not wanting your heels to give you away. You press against the wall as a woman’s voice fills the space; her giggle makes you raise a brow as it’s followed by a low, familiar chuckle.

“Well, it was nice seeing you again, but I should go,” Taehyung says. You peek over the corner and see him being pulled into an embrace by the woman dressed in a chef’s hat and coat.

She kisses his cheek, and you gasp. Taehyung immediately turns around, stepping away from the woman as you turn to leave.

Taehyung curses. He hastily waves at the woman before turning on his feet to chase after you.

“Doll, please wait!” He calls after you as you head for the front door.

“No!"

“Doll, you’re gonna fall in those heels!” Taehyung quickened his pace, dress shoes sliding along the floor as he caught up to you. He’s gentle when his large hand wraps around your wrist.

“Baby, please let me explain,” he begs, dark eyes trying to read yours. Tears pool at the corner of your eyes and you sniffle. You don’t want him to see you cry and your sadness turns to anger at his words.

“That’s rich, Taehyung,” you scoff as you shake his hand off and cross your arms over your chest. The snow has picked up outside and you curse yourself for checking in your coat with the attendant nowhere to be found.

How bad would it be to wait for a ride in the snow?

“Baby, she’s nobody, okay? We hooked up once years ago, and I didn’t know she would be here. She caught me in the hall when I was looking for you. I swear, doll. You’re the only one for me,” Taehyung swears, his hands holding both of yours.

You bite your lip, eyeing him carefully. You’d known him long enough to know when he was lying and when he was being sincere and your heart clenched in your chest. “I’m the only one?”

“The only one, baby. I don’t want anyone else but you. I swear it,” he raises his pinkie finger to yours and you raise yours to loop with his.

“Come here,” he pulls you into his arms, squeezing you tightly. He kisses the side of your head, holding you close. “I’m never letting you go again, baby. Never ever.”

You laugh against his shoulder. “I think someone may eventually stumble upon us if we keep standing here.”

Taehyung chuckles. “You know what I meant, you brat.”

You giggle. The sound is music to his ears as he looks at you, wiping the stray tears from your cheeks. He apologizes again, pressing a kiss to the tip of your nose.

Taking a step back and then another, you’re soon pressed to the wall beside the coat check-in, hidden slightly by a velvet maroon curtain. Taehyung puts his large hand on the wall beside your head while the other grips your chin as he tilts your head for you to look at him.

“I can’t wait for Sunday. I can’t wait to figure this out. I want to be with you now and forever, doll. I only want you.”

“I only want you, Tae,” you assure him, licking your lips as he smiles sweetly, leaning forward to capture your lips with his. “Only ever want you.”

Taehyung kisses you again, cupping your face as the kiss deepens and your moans are silenced against his lips.

Unbeknownst to you, Yoongi and Hoseok appear from the coat closet panting, with ruffled hair, shirts untucked, and ties undone as they see the two of you kissing as if it was your last night together.

They sneak away with giggles and shared smiles. Yoongi grins, “I knew they couldn’t keep their hands off each other.”

Hoseok chuckles. “Neither can we. Come on, babe. Let’s get some cake.”

SATURDAY DECEMBER 25

“Honey, it’s okay,” Minsu tries to assure her daughter, who is pacing back and forth in the living room. Everyone is gathered by the TV, watching the weather forecast, and is just as stressed as Alea.

Snow had fallen heavily through the night, causing roads to be closed as well as the location for the ceremony. Despite the snow plows working hard to clear the roads, snow had fallen too quickly for them to keep up. There was hope of it clearing up later in the afternoon, but for now, there was no choice but to stay home.

“What are we going to do?” Alea cried into her hands. You wrap her up in a hug.

“We have the wedding license and I can marry you anywhere,” Hoseok reminds her. She nods as she looks across the room. She rises from her seat and wipes her tears.

“Do you want to marry me today?” Alea asks Seokjin, who grins brightly and wraps her up in a hug.

“I’d marry you any day, anywhere. Nothing can stop me, baby.” Seokjin kisses her lips quickly and Alea grins. They exchange quick ‘love yous’ and take a deep breath, exhaling before turning to everyone.

“Let’s do this!”

Cheers erupt in the living room. Alea and Seokjin are so grateful to their friends and family.

“Namjoon and Taehyung, you two call our families and let them know about the change in location for the ceremony,” Seokjin instructs. Both men nod, taking their cell phones out.

“Jimin and Jungkook, please shovel the backyard enough for an aisle,” Alea says. Jimin and Jungkook nod, scrambling off the loveseat to get their coats on.

“Mom, can you do my hair?” Alea asks before turning to you. “And can you do my makeup?”

You both agree eagerly, taking her upstairs to her bedroom as the three of you chat about what her ideas were.

Seokjin turns to Yoongi and Hoseok, “Can I count on you two to make a large batch of hot chocolate and cookies for guests? I’m hoping the roads will be clear by the time the reception is to take place. I’ll call the wedding planner and get an update. She lives near the hall and she’s not afraid to drive in this. Maybe she can pick up the caterers as well.”

“We’ve got this!” Yoongi assured his eldest friend, pushing him in the basement's direction so he could make those calls. “Don’t worry about anything!”

Once the guests begin to arrive, most by foot, the house is lively with excitement. Haejin has wrestled up a wedding arch from somewhere and your father popped in to help decorate the backyard for the wedding. Christmas decorations littered the yard but fit well with Alea and Seokjin’s Winter Wonderland theme so you were grateful for that. Sure, it wasn’t their ideal location but at the end of the day they’d be husband and wife, and that’s all that mattered.

“I can’t believe it’s still snowing!” Alea huffs as she tried to sit still while you helped Minsu put the veil on her daughter’s head.

“It’ll be okay, honey. Everyone made it here safely, and the snow has slowed significantly. Seokjinie said the reception hall is decorated and ready to go. The caterer arrived with her staff and the cake made it to the venue in one piece. The DJ will be picked up soon and everyone will get there safely.” Minsu informs her daughter and Alea visibly relaxes.

Minsu turns to you and fussed at you to get ready once Alea’s hair and makeup is done. You nod, hurrying to do your hair and makeup while Minsu does the same.

“I can’t believe I’m getting married,” Alea smiles with hearts in her eyes as she pins your hair up, sliding a glittery hairpiece in place.

“Me too,” You grin. “Oh, you’re such a beautiful bride, Lea!”

Alea hugs you from behind. “Thank you for coming. I know things with Tae had been tough but I appreciate you setting it aside for this.”

“Of course, Alea. I'd do anything for you,” you look at her in the mirror's reflection.

Alea smirks. “So you’ll tell me about you kissing my brother last night?”

“What?!”

Alea giggles as she sits beside you. She grabs the blush and a brush to put some on your cheeks.

“Oh, yeah. Yoongi and Hoseok totally blabbed,” she giggles and you join her.

“How did they even see us? They disappeared for most of the night,” you roll your eyes.

“Something about the coat closet missing an attendant,” Alea shrugs. “I think they were just hooking up though. They’re not as secretive as they think.”

“You know about them too?”

“I’ve known for ages. Hoseok looks at Yoongi the same way Taehyung looks at you, babe. The way Jinnie looks at me and Jungkookie at Jiminie. Love is very easy to see,” Alea smiles sweetly as she dusts a bit of blush on the tip of your nose.

“We didn’t want to say anything until after the wedding,” you assure her.

Alea laughs. “You know I don’t care about that. I’m just glad you and Tae are speaking again. I don’t know what the two of you are but I hope it’ll work out for you, sweetie. I love you like a sister, and you’re already part of the family. I just want you to be happy. Truly and irrevocably happy.”

“Alea,” you say her name as your lip trembles and tears threatened to spill.

“Ah, ah!” She clicks her tongue, dabbing at your eyes. “No crying on my wedding day.”

You laugh wetly. “No promises!”

Alea giggles. “Ugh, don’t I know it. I don’t know if I’ll make it past my vows or Seokjin’s without shedding a tear. Hell, I might just cry when my dad gives me away.”

“I’ll hide the makeup wipes in my bra,” you tell her with a smile. She nods, hugging you tight before telling you it’s time to get dressed.

“The guests are waiting outside. It’s time, baby girl,” Haejin says as he peeks his head into his daughter’s bedroom. You rise from your seat and step out, allowing Haejin to have a moment with his daughter. Thankfully, the photographer and videographer had made it to the home, picked up by Jungkook and Jimin just an hour before.

“I’m ready,” Alea breathes with a waver in her voice. Haejin blinks his tears away, hugging his daughter for a moment as you dab at your eyes. You were not going to keep your promise of no tears.

Stepping carefully, you head down the stairs with your bouquet in your hands. You’re wrapped up in your coat over your red maid-of-honor dress. Perhaps choosing one with just one strap and a straight neckline wasn’t the best choice now that you were heading outside.

“Wow! You look beautiful,” Namjoon compliments the moment he sees you. You thank him with a smile as you loop your arms through his.

“Are you ready?” He asks you as Alea and her father join you at the door that leads to the backyard.

“Let’s do this!” Alea exclaims, and the door opens as music fills the backyard courtesy of Jungkook’s Bluetooth speaker.

Slowly, you take your first steps outside with Namjoon at your side, clutching your bouquet as you realize the snow has finally stopped. You sigh in relief, Namjoon’s dimpled smile meeting yours. He turns to look forward as do you and your heart stops.

Taehyung stands proudly beside Seokjin, his eyes focused solely on you as you make your way down the aisle in your dress. You look absolutely radiant even in the chill of the early afternoon weather. Thoughts race across his mind, settling on the one that pictures you walking toward him in the arm of your father while he waits at the altar. His heart flips in his chest, tears rolling down his cheeks slowly. He chuckles as he wipes them away with a sheepish smile. Jungkook hands him a tissue discreetly and Taehyung thanks him. One day , Taehyung promised. One day, it would be you and him at the altar, promising each other forever and a day.

When you reach the altar, you smile at Taehyung through unshed tears, giving him a small nod, almost as if you could read his mind. That little nod sends his heart fluttering, assuring him he’s not the only one fully in this. You want him just as he wants you, a future, a family, a home .

The wedding march begins, and the guests turn to watch Alea enter with her father. Tears are shed by the guests. She looks like an angel as she slowly makes her way down the aisle. You turn to watch Seokjin. His smile is radiant even through his tears as he watches the love of his life walking down the aisle toward him. To him, nothing exists but his beautiful bride. Nothing could have kept him from going through with the wedding and even though he’s sure Alea’s freezing without her coat on, he knows she would think the same thing.

“Hi,” Alea giggles when she reaches Seokjin. Haejin, kisses her cheek, handing her over to Seokjin with a sad smile as he steps away to join his wife.

“Hi,” Seokjin breathes, cheeks pink, and his heart hammering in his chest.

Hoseok smiles, greeting the guests and thanking them for coming to the new location despite the weather. “We’ve got confirmation that the roads have been cleared and the reception shall be held in the reception hall. So carefully drive over after the ceremony and now without further ado, let’s get this show on the road!”

Soft glances and tear-filled smiles are exchanged between you and Taehyung as you watch two of your best friends get married. Tears flow freely at their vows, and no amount of dabbing at your eyes helps as you cry.

Alea hands you her bouquet before joining hands with Seokjin.

“It brings me great joy to pronounce you husband and wife. Seokjin, you May kiss your bride!” Hoseok exclaims proudly.

Alea and Seokjin kiss, cheers, and claps fill the snowy backyard. Everyone forgets about how cold they are or how their noses are frozen and their bodies shivering. The joy that the bride and groom exude is enough for them as the couple breaks apart, with love in their eyes and deep in their hearts.

“With great pleasure, I introduce for the first time, Mr. and Mrs. Seokjin Kim!”

Alea takes her bouquet, raising it over her head in a cheer. She giggles as flower petals are thrown at her and her husband. She steps forward with him in tow, hands linked as they lean away from each other and toward their parents to give hugs and kisses before heading back inside.

Jungkook and Jimin scoop Namjoon away with them while Hoseok laces hands with Yoongi until it’s just you and Taehyung at the altar.

Slowly, guests trickle back inside for a snack of hot chocolate and sugar cookies, while their rides are settled and their excitement buzzes with celebrations of the happy couple.

Once the door is shut and you’re left alone in the snow with Taehyung, you clutch your bouquet in your hands as you pull your coat tighter, a shiver going down your spine.

“You look beautiful, doll. I couldn’t keep my eyes off you,” he chuckles as he holds his hand out for you to hold.

“Tae!” You chide. “It was your sister’s wedding!”

“So? I see her all the time,” Taehyung laughs. “No, but in all seriousness, you’re breathtaking.”

“You don’t look so bad yourself. Almost like a model,” you tease.

“Almost?” Taehyung raises a dark brow, his voice low, and it makes your body thrum with excitement and arousal. “Why don’t I take you back to my room and model nude for you?”

You curse, nearly panting and salivating at his words. Your body is flushed with heat and an icy wind does nothing to cool you off. Beneath you, snow crunches beneath your feet and you bite your lip to keep from agreeing. You’ve got to be the one thinking clearly, there are almost 100 guests stuffed in Tae’s childhood home and any of them could hear you writhing in pleasure beneath him.

“Taehyung!” You slap his shoulder playfully instead, shaking your head. “You’re such a tease!”

“I don’t have to be,” he licks his lips and you moan before covering your mouth with your hand after dropping your bouquet in the snow.

A look at the sky promises more snow and another shiver wracks through your body.

“Listen, I know we said we’d talk tomorrow, but the waiting is killing me,” Taehyung sighs heavily. “I’ve said a lot of what I had to these past few days and I know we’re on the same page but I just need it all out in the open at once.”

You nod, allowing him to continue.

“I love you, baby. I never stopped loving you. Leaving you behind and not telling you about Paris will always be my biggest regret.”

“Tae-”

“No, please,” Taehyung interrupts. “Let me finish.”

“Okay.”

“I can’t say sorry enough and I wish I had fought harder for you. I hate that we wasted so much time being apart and angry at each other. I missed you, I missed us. I missed seeing your face every morning and stealing kisses in our homes so we wouldn't be caught,” he smirks.

“We did get caught,” you laugh. “Your mom banned sleepovers in your room.”

“Yeah but that was after we’d already given each other our virginity so, I count it as a win!” Taehyung chuckles and you smack his shoulder.

“Shut up!”

Taehyung smiles, eyes shut tight and hair curled at his forehead. “I love you and I want to be with you now and forever. I never want to lose you again, baby. I know you’ve got your career and your life with Hoseok in the city and I’ve got my career but I know we can make this work. I’ll do anything to make this work.”

“Tae, I feel the same. I can’t lose you again. I said some awful, hateful things to you and I’ll regret them for as long as I live. I love you, I always have and I can’t go much longer without you in my life. I’m moving back here, back home with Hoseok and Yoongi. I don’t know all the details but I’m willing to try again if you are?”

Taehyung grins, pulling you into a tight hug. “Really? You’re moving back?”

“Yes! It might be a bit to figure everything out but I’ll be back home soon. Back to you,” you say into his shoulder as he releases you.

“Nothing would make me happier, doll!”

“And with my new job I can work from anywhere so if I had to go with you on a work trip, I could as long as I have my laptop,” you inform him.

Taehyung’s smile only grows brighter, just like his outlook on your future.

“Baby!” Taehyung kisses you on the lips repeatedly in his excitement.

“Wherever you are is the only place I want to be,” you assure him as you wrap your arms around his neck. His forehead rests against yours, as you hold each other for a moment. Everything was falling perfectly in place.

“Be mine again?” He whispers against your lips.

“Of course, Tae. Nothing would make me happier,” you smile, your cheeks beginning to ache from doing it so much.

When he pulls you closer, your knee bumps into the pocket of his pants and he steps back.

“Oh! I have something for you,” he says excitedly as his hand goes into his pants pocket. You raise a brow at him in curiosity as he digs deep in his pocket before pulling out a small black velvet box.

“Tae?” You panic slightly, taking a step back and he chuckles.

“It’s not an engagement ring, you ding-dong,” he laughs as he sees the fear etched in your face.

“Oh, thank god!”

“Nice to know that’s how you feel,” he jokes with a teasing smile.

“We literally just got back together after being broken up for years,” you stick your tongue out.

“Don’t worry, I wouldn’t propose at my sister’s wedding. She’d stuff the ring up my nose before I even got down on my knee.”

You cackle, you know he’s right. Alea would have none of it and you’re not sure Seokjin would hold back either.

Taehyung opens the box slowly to build anticipation, but he’s also afraid it will fall out and get lost in the snow. Besides, you could already hear the guests leaving the home to head to the reception hall. You know soon, someone would urge you to get inside and head out but for now it was just you and Taehyung and that’s the way you wanted to keep it.

“Oh, Tae! It’s beautiful!” You gasp when you see the snowflake sitting in the box. It’s got a thin silver necklace and the prettiest little snowflake you’ve ever seen. Taehyung turns the back around and the tiniest little T hides engraved on it.

“T, huh?” You giggle and his cheeks turn pink.

“A coincidence,” he fibs.

“That you paid for?”

“That I paid for, yes,” his blush deepens.

“Help me put it on?” You ask as you turn around for him. Taehyung carefully takes the necklace out of the box, gently putting it around your neck and closing the clasp. He kisses the spot above it on your neck and you turn to face him with love in your eyes.

“I love it,” you state with your fingers holding the snowflake delicately. “I love you .”

Taehyung wraps you up in his arms once again, knowing he should get you inside soon, the both of you are nearly freezing out in the piles of snow.

“I love you too, baby. Now, tomorrow and forever,” he promises as he cups your face with his hands, which are somehow warm despite your time outside.

“I love you now, tomorrow, and forever, Taehyung,” you repeat, locking eyes with his and your heart flutters in your chest as his thumbs caress your cheeks.

Slowly, Taehyung leans in, gently capturing your lips with his own as he kisses you deeply.

Too soon, you’re springing apart with a gasp. A snowflake lands on the apples of your cheeks and another on Taehyung’s nose. You both look up at the sky as snowflakes come down above the two of you.

With bright smiles and frozen cheeks, you look at each other and laugh. “It’s a Christmas miracle.”

“A nuisance for your sister,” you remind him. “We should probably head to the reception before it gets worse.”

Taehyung agrees as he picks your bouquet off the ground and holds it in his hands. He gazed at it, smiling to himself. “One day you’ll have your own bouquet.”

“Tae!” You giggle as you wrap yourself around him, giddy with love and adoration, hopeful for the future ahead of you.

“I promise, love. It’s you and me against the world,” Taehyung chuckles, kissing your head. You meet his gaze, lacing your fingers either him.

“I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Taehyung kisses you again, soft and slow as he cradles your face in his hands. Your lips move in sync, his tongue meeting yours as the kiss deepens and your heart beats rapidly in your chest.

As snow falls around you and you exchange Christmas kisses, your world feels complete.

Taehyung parts from your lips for just a moment. “Merry Christmas, baby.”

“Merry Christmas, Tae.”

thank you for reading! ♡ if you liked it, please let me know! 💌

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