#koo junhoe fanfic

[soundsofcicadas]

Swan Song, part one

Pairing: Koo Junhoe x Reader (f)

Genres: Drama, Angst, Romance, Childhood best friends, Junhoe is a former idol, Friends to lovers

Count: 2697

Warnings: None

Synopsis: After an unexpected encounter with your childhood best friend Junhoe, years after drifting apart, your rekindled friendship blooms anew. However, life takes a turn when he asks you to pen an article for his upcoming wedding. As you become entangled in his personal life, your old feelings of love for him begin resurfacing and the concealed secret behind his decision to abandon his idol career is soon to be unveiled by you. 

It was a dreary, rain-soaked afternoon and you found yourself carrying a couple of grocery bags, each lightly dampened by the persistent drizzle. The rain had already drenched your umbrella, rendering it almost useless. You let out a sigh and quickened your pace, hoping to reach your apartment before the rain grew heavier. Upon crossing the street, you noticed an old record store nestled between a quaint cafe and a cozy bookstore. You glanced up and saw its faded sign bore the name “Good Oldies,” and a sudden sense of nostalgia washed over you.   

“Should I?” You asked yourself with some hesitation. You looked at the groceries in your hands for a moment before a faint smile appeared on your face. Despite them weighing you down, curiosity got the better of you.  

You pushed open the creaky door of the record store. A soft bell tinkled above as you stepped in, greeted by the familiar scent of old vinyl and the gentle hum of music playing on a vintage turntable. Rows upon rows of vinyl records filled the store, their covers adorned with vibrant artwork and the promise of forgotten melodies. You set your grocery bags down and began flipping through the albums, each one a portal to a different era. Lost in the world of music, you finally settled on a Billie Holiday record, its cover portraying the singer’s side view posing behind a purplish background. As you held the record in your hands, your eyes caught a tall figure browsing by the “Rock” section in the next aisle. Aside from the cashier patiently waiting at the counter, only the two of you were the customers inside. You couldn’t help but stare at the mysterious man in front of you. He was wearing jeans, paired with a matching brown corduroy blazer and a baseball cap. You could see him picking up a Bob Dylan record and once he turned around, you glanced up to see his face clearly.  

You froze, your eyes fluttered rapidly.  

Even if you could only see half of his face, you surely recognized him. A jumble of emotions rushed through you—surprise, longing? A twinge of anxiety.   

Is it really him? No, it’s definitely him! Should I approach him? What if he doesn’t recognize me?  

Without further thought, you took a deep breath and cleared your throat. He was about to walk towards the counter when your voice broke through the soft veil background music in the sparsely populated store.   

“Junhoe?” You called.  

Junhoe halted and took a glimpse at you, his brows furrowed in confusion.   

Your heart sank, but you pressed on moving closely to him. “It’s me, y/n. We used to live next door to each other when we were kids.”  

Junhoe turned to face you completely.  

Familiarity dawned on him as he began examining the stranger before him—from the contours of your face to the soft curve of your cheeks. Your long ebony hair, still dampened from the rain. Your eyes were bright, widened in astonishment. You were wearing a long white sundress covered in an oversized baby pink coat, a Lady Satin album in your hands.  

“Y/n?” He mumbled.  

You were his childhood best friend, until he dropped out in middle school and left for the city to pursue his dreams. You were the one he promised to call and write but never did. When did he forget about you? He couldn’t even remember. Junhoe sifted through his forgotten memories of you and for some unknown reason, found comfort in recalling how you used to exude a carefree spirit when you were both young. You were one of the boys in the neighborhood and never changed your circle of friends, even when you all started attending school up to your adolescence. He fondly remembered how, during your escapades together, you would match your energy with him and the boys in the group effortlessly. Being the eldest among the six of them, you naturally assumed the role of an older sister. You became their protector against mean kids if any of them were bullied.  

Junhoe’s gaze lingered on the subtle changes in your style, the way your clothing reflects your femininity. Your posture now carried a touch of maturity, but your features still looked youthful, untouched by the passage of time. Gone was the y/n who hunted for frogs and insects with him in her tees and chucks.  

Junhoe noticed how he had almost gotten lost in his thoughts upon hearing you answer him excitedly with a “Yes, it’s me! I can’t believe it’s you.”  

“I can’t believe it’s you too.” He responded to you with a warm smile.   

************************************************************************  

“You didn’t have to pay for it, you know.” You said shyly to Junhoe, pertaining to the album he bought for you from the record store. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as you and Junhoe sat across from each other in a secluded corner of the coffee shop. The clinking of cups and hushed conversations along with the playing jazz melody formed as gentle backdrop to your reunion.  

“It’s not free! You're paying for my coffee.” Junhoe teased, earning a laugh from you.  

“You bet it’s my treat today!” You nodded with a grin. There was a brief pause when you added, “Thank you Junhoe for coming here with me. I’m not taking too much of your time, am I?”  

Junhoe shook his head. “Oh no y/n! I’m actually on vacation right now. I was here just a few days ago.”  

So this is why he’s back. You mused.  

Taking a sip from the hot caramel macchiato you ordered, you had a chance to observe Junhoe over the brim of your cup—the white undershirt suited his ensemble that day. You knew the baseball cap perched casually on his head was not just a simple accessory. It created a shield of privacy around him from the curious gazes of onlookers given the fact that Junhoe was still a celebrity. You didn’t mind ordering for him. You knew he wanted to pick a spot away from the prying eyes of customers, hence to where the both of you are now nestled. It offered a discreet setting to catch up after all those lost time.       Junhoe peeked through the misty glass of the cafe’s window, where the rain seemed to have turned into light pattering before he glimpsed back at you.  

“It’s been so long, y/n. I can’t believe we’re sitting here after all these years.”  

You beamed at him and set your coffee down on the tabletop, “I know, right? Life has taken us on such different paths.”  

Junhoe’s expression shifted, a hint of remorse tugging at his sharp features. “Y/n, I feel terrible for not keeping in touch, especially considering how close we were.”  

Your gaze softened, but your smile was unwavering. “It’s okay, Junhoe. You were chasing your passion, and you built a new life for yourself outside this town. Not all of us were headed in the same direction anyway. It genuinely made me happy to see you thriving. I’ve always been proud of you, Junhoe.”  

Your last statement piqued Junhoe's curiosity.  

“Proud?” He repeated.  

“How do I say this—” You tried to avoid looking at his face. Your sight dipping into the stain of your lipstick on the cup of your coffee as if seeking solace. You felt a pang of embarrassment tickling the edges of your consciousness, a quiet voice whispering the fear that your words might be misconstrued. You didn’t want him to think you were some sort of fervent, overzealous stalker. A faint blush tinted your cheeks. Your fingers fidgeted nervously with the fabric of your dress.  

“I followed your journey as a singer Junhoe. Your rise to fame was like a whirlwind. Your voice was everywhere.” You divulged. “I even went to some of your concerts to be honest.”  

Junhoe’s awe hung in the air from your confession, yet he held no judgement from it. He was grateful, flattered to say the least.  

“I wish I had known that y/n. Thank you.” He said to you with care.  

“But I’m definitely not a saesang or anything.” You reassured him with a nervous laugh. You didn’t dare to meet Junhoe’s eyes because sharing this information with him made you feel exposed, yet you continued, “You were the closest friend I ever had, and I guess I’ve always clung to the belief that your dreams would come true. Regardless of the passing years and not hearing anything from you, you still have a special place in my heart.”  

Junhoe began to feel the weight of your words, a surge of sorrow and regret engulfed him. He reflected on how your connection with each other in the past was unbreakable. His inseparability with you was the envy of the other boys in your circle. You had always favored him, making your bond together a more special one. You stood by him, especially during his appearances in school talent shows and local town festivals. You consistently supported him to the point where you recorded his audition tapes sent to entertainment companies. Junhoe got accepted by YG Entertainment eventually, and your joy that day for him was immeasurable. You even brought the boys with you to accompany him on his first day of training to the company.  

“I’m really sorry, y/n.” Junhoe stated, his face grim. “You know, during those years, I was so caught up with the hectic demand of my career. I lost contact with a lot of people, including you.” Junhoe was struggling to find the right words, knowing that they might come across as excuses for not reaching out for such a long time. Yet, they were the only words he could muster.  

The fervent pursuit of Junhoe’s dream to become a singer resulted in his connections slipping away like grains of sand through his fingers. The rigors of his training consumed his time and energy, leaving little room to see or talk to his circle of friends. Gradually, Junhoe started living at the company’s dormitory which made him more detached from them. Their relationship began to fray due to his lack of communication—the letters he’d forgotten to read, calls gone to voicemail and most importantly, the highlights of the lives of his friends he missed out on knowing and witnessing, causing both sides to finally dwindle into silence. As Junhoe marched toward his debut, the overwhelming preparation and anticipation completely absorbed him. The spotlight of the stage beckoned, and the weight of his ambition denied him the opportunity to look backwards. The vortex of his rise to fame kept him farther from his roots. Recording sessions, photo shoots, TV appearances and tours became the center of his everyday life. It cast him into a turbulence of events that seemed to happen in the blink of an eye. The adoration of fans, the flashes of cameras and the cheers of crowds all consumed his focus. The memories of his friends back in his hometown became a blur, their faces fading like distant constellations in the night sky.  

The realization of how you held onto your belief that he would achieve his aspirations, had affected Junhoe in some kind of way. Your persistence in tracking his path as a singer astounded him. He was profoundly moved how you cherished your friendship after such a long period of being apart.  

However, at that exact moment, a haunting thought emerged within Junhoe, creeping into the recesses of his mind like an uninvited guest. In your presence, a world he had thought he’d left behind reignited, casting a shadow of pain over him. A bittersweet memory of a dream that had once been within his grasp, disappeared as swiftly as a fleeting breath.  

You returned your attention back to Junhoe. It was not your intention to cause him any negative feelings.  

“Please don’t feel bad, Junhoe.” You pleaded. “We were kids, and circumstances changed. I never held it against you.”  

Junhoe had somehow found consolation in your words, although a subtle ache still persisted beneath the surface.  

“Thank you, y/n. That means a lot to me.” He said sincerely.   

“I know this may sound too much Junhoe, but I knew then you were destined to be a singer. You weren’t meant to be stuck in this town like me.” You declared. “That’s why it made me sad when you retired from music. You were at the peak of your career, but I truly get it and I still support you pursuing other things.”  

Junhoe leaned back in his chair and looked at the momentarily forgotten coffee on the table, as if searching for the right answer. He was torn between vulnerability and a desire to protect the fragile facade he had built. He wrestled between overwhelming emotions, a torrent of memories he had forgotten now resurfacing. A cascade of what-ifs and maybes flooded his mind, reminding him of the dreams he had once harbored.  

Junhoe offered a fleeting smile, a fragile acknowledgment that your words touched a chord within him. But he remained guarded, his response veiled by the walls he had erected to secure himself from the agonizing truth he had long concealed.  

“You’re kind to say that.” Junhoe murmured softly, his gaze now meeting yours. His voice carried a weight of both resignation and yearning, a silent plea for understanding. It was a response that revealed the depth of his struggle, a battle between the echoes of his dreams and the reality he had come to accept.  

“I’m into writing poetry now, y/n. I’ve published a few books and it’s been therapeutic for me.” Junhoe revealed. “I guess, I’m still part of the music industry. I occasionally produce music for my fellow artists.”  

“That’s amazing Junhoe!” You responded, providing him with warm encouragement. “It’s incredible how you continue to explore and evolve as an artist. I wasn’t lucky to obtain a copy of your last book though, it got easily sold out!”  

Junhoe appreciated your attempt to inject a lighthearted laugh into the conversation, as a means to thaw the seriousness of it. But talking about himself had begun to tire him out, prompting him to steer the discussion to you.  

“Enough of me y/n, how have you been?” Junhoe asked. “Are you still friends with Hanbin and the other boys?”  

“Me? Oh, I’m also a writer like you, but it’s for a local lifestyle magazine.” You shared; your voice laced with enthusiasm as you seamlessly followed along with his transition of topic. “And yes, I’m still friends with the boys. Hanbin now teaches elementary school kids. Would you believe that?”  

“Wow! Really?” Junhoe’s eyebrows shot up in surprise.  

“Yeah. Yun works as a master chef at a fancy hotel in Seoul. As for Jiwon, he has his own family already. Him and Dong both resided in the US after graduation, but they live in different states. Dong has his own dance studio somewhere in LA.”  

A comfortable atmosphere began to envelop the two of you, and Junhoe felt his shoulders visibly relax as he listened to your stories about your childhood friends. It offered a refreshing change from his life in the spotlight. Engaging to hear every detail of their lives, he couldn’t help but recognize how much he missed them and how happy it made him that they were all doing so well through the years.  

Until a specific event sparked in Junhoe’s mind, inspiring him to extend an invitation to you. He saw this as an opportunity to keep the rekindled connection you both shared, a bond he was determined not to let fade away as he had done in the past.  

“Y/n, would you be interested in joining me for an art exhibit tomorrow night? Feel free to bring Hanbin and your other friends as well, if you like.” Junhoe asked you excitedly.  

A glint appeared in your eyes upon hearing the kind gesture. “I would love to Junhoe! That’s wonderful because I like art a lot.”  

“That’s great, y/n! I’ll text you the address.” Junhoe replied cheerfully, looking forward to seeing you again. 

[fridayvelvet]

Hold me now and let it be

Summary

Junho tugs at Hoyeol gently walking him backwards they make their way closer to the military building until the two of them are mostly secluded under a small alcove, the most privacy they can afford right now without appearing suspicious.

“Can you look at me?”

Hoyeol shakes his head in a timid refusal swaying dangerously where he stands, "Fine, you don't have to look but just let me…" Junho trails off, slowly pushing Hoyeol up against the bricked wall settling him there.

The shaky attempts at controlling his breathing more evident now with their proximity.

“Just breathe, I've got you.”

Status: Complete! one shot it can be found on ao3

[sayorikao]

Você precisa contar para ele

Capa dramática, Hoyul e Junho

Autora: SugaMinYoongi97

Deixando um adendo né, a fanfic se originou do nada de um sonho *surta*. Em breve ela sai.

[sanghyukstattoos]

iKON: when it becomes difficult for you

A/N: For more, read here~~

Jinhwan:

You are sitting at your desk, distracted by the bright, vivid green colours of the forest framed far outside the window. Each branch of twenty to thirty leaves illuminated with the pretty sunlight moves because of the resilient winds. Together, they look like nature has embalmed itself with glitter. Beyond the dancing leaves, you can see blue like the colour of the sea near the shore. When it washes the sands, it's white but when saying goodbye, it returns to it's beautiful light blue, reflecting the multitude skies.

You stare, continuously, perhaps lost in thought but none are with you, neither do any come to mind. When Jinhwan walks into the room, he's rather joyful but his expression becomes more mindful when he sees you sitting there. From his view, he's seeing your numbed expression, it's rather ambiguous and for a second he wonders if he should be here, with you. The tears that should come to you, an expressional, heavy gesture of your pain stop short.

They get swallowed by waves of breaths that are steady in rising and steady in falling. He gently grabs the chair and places it at a distance that's not too far from you. If the situation were reversed, you would kiss him, another expression of how much you love to see him happy. He lets his hand flop when he sits down on the hard chair and looks outside. Then does he notice the beauty; he's looking at a traffic-light officer looking- tree with white blossoms covering the entity of its existence (they only come out during summer).

He grasps your hand and you look at him, a smile barely there, faint yes, but for him to know that you are doing okay. The turbulent winds slow down for a second when he reaches over and caresses your cheek, the action pleasantly dilates your eyes with a flowing transparent liquid. Before you can completely turn your head away from him, he pulls you back to him with a soft tug of his voice, ''Look at me, everything is going to be alright.''.

Yunhyeong:

Song hugs you tightly and you have no choice but to look at him, from your position, he doesn't want to let you go even though you will still be with him, later. He's close, much closer than you think from escaping from the confines of his happiness that he wants to show you the best, that you may always remain happy. You lay on his shoulder as he kisses you, so softly that you instantly respond to the way he moves when he's with you.

You clench his jumper with both hands, squeezing your eyes shut, trying to feel him, all of him. You won't go anywhere, you try to pull away to tell him but neither of you say anything. When he pulls back and takes in a breath, lips trembling for the way you taste, he looks into your eyes with a deep tenderness, as if he loves you more than he loves everything else. You stay in his arms, straddling him, trying to form words but the look in his eyes produces no words from you.

You see warmth, perhaps a reflection of everything you two have ever been and will be, it's impossible to say what. Hurriedly, he links your lips and flips you over, gently laying your head over the pillows. When he sees the look of haze in your eyes, he smiles contentedly, thinking that he'll miss this, even if you remain in denial. So there is something missing in his eyes that prevents from showing a full smile. Your breath is taken away when he leans over you and this time he speaks up, he tells you to speak to him.

''Speak to me'' he says. You nod, sitting up, hugging him, telling him that maybe you are leaving. The sun grows brighter, engulfing the room just a little bit more than what it was at half before eleven. He asks you what you mean by maybe, cupping your head because he knows that you are fatigued by all the events surrounding you. The look in his eyes is listening, over the peacefulness in your room of soft colour and slanting ceiling that actually overlooks the flowing oceans. You love him.

Bobby:

''What should we do today?'' he asked before he had tugged your smiles and giggles along to a comic store. This was to get you out of the mental predicament of your horrible situation. Upon entering the store, you hear the soft soul music float through the peaceful silence. People are sinking into their bean bags, the faster they read the words in relation to the beat playing above head, the harder they sink into it, trouble ceasing from their beautiful minds unless it is prescribed in the books. You look around, surrounded by taller than ever stacks of books, up and sideways, you look one way and Jiwon looks the other, curiously.

Unintentionally, you tug him along to the seating, set on the comfiest corner, sighing in relief when you sit down. Squeezing your hand, he leans over, gently whispering in your ears, ''What do you want to eat?'' probing a small smile and words of magic that even Jiwon agrees too. As he leaves to grab your food, ambivalently you get up and face the rows of thin, tall, plastic-covered books. Jiwon glances at you to see how you're doing, snapping his head towards the staff when they call for him.

Your heart quickly pounds, running your fingers over the often worn-out plastic leads you to the end of the line, where you walk towards the huge window. It emanates bright light and you slowly walk towards it, stopping to let someone pass by. Within the brief pause, you've begun to lean to one side, clutching the tempered wood that reminded you of the hard seating they had in churches. Jiwon set the food down, softly calling out your name and leading you back to the table.

Patting your hair down, he asks you if you are alright, eliciting you to entwine your hands and ask if he could feed your hungry self. He chuckles, struggling to open the packet, eventually looking around before he pries it out open using his teeth, setting it down for you. You tell him how much you want to read something together and you laugh when he begins to think in mock thought that it would be hard to find something the both of you agree on. You burst into little giggles when someone looks your way, nestling into his jumper while he covers you, also struggling to hold his laughter in.

You say that it wasn't even that funny, yet he's holding it in because of the stare you gave him, it's playful yet he loves that you are irked or annoyed, anything that isn't remotely serious and will make you smile. He tries to get away from your pinches and little threats and his eyes widen when he hears how calm you sound. It's like you tell him to sober up but you're smiling and your voice is loving and he really doesn't want to sober up now. His legs shuffle closer to yours, he pulls you into his chest as he plugs in the earphones and you listen away, careful not to slurp your noodles too loud.

Hanbin:

Your mind is restless, you are agitated as you turn your head from side to side, thinking of sleep as it comes to you. The curtains shield you from any of your colleagues finding you but they filter in the street light that illuminates the darkness outside. The patient whose bed you are sitting by is Kim Hanbin, he is currently asleep by the fact that you can hear his soft snores, causing you to smile. He came in fatigued from overworking and it made you happy to know that he was recovering. The distinct shuffling of another patient in the same room alerts you but what scares you more is when Hanbin taps your shoulders.

You immediately get up, steadying your spinning head by holding onto the end, hesitating to form words and he pulls you back onto the bed because he can see that you are about to fall. You see him lean over and open the drawer, pulling out a tonic that when he hands over, he tells you, ''I'm sorry, it's kind of bitter'' and gently places it into your hands, he continues, ''But it'll help''. You nod and he shuffles in the dark, sitting up to watch you drink it all the way. He smiles at the bitterness of the drink that you flinch and squeeze your shoulders from, comprehending enough to take it back and toss it in the bin.

To you, there's disco lights floating in the hallways and dancing music playing when you get up and your body no longer hurts. He's still sleeping so you let him be till he rings the nurse call button and you rush out of your seat, heart pounding moments before you fling the curtains back. He smiles when he sees your shadow shuffling, no doubt that hesitating nature of yours at play. It's night again, the birds are chirping upside down, he's sitting beside you, listening to your thoughts about today. You pause when he takes your hands in his, it's automatic since he's been wanting to hold that for a while.

He meets your eyes, there's the truck that is waiting outside which shines light through the window and from the table he hands you an orange. You missed the way his breath hitched when he saw you staring, the way his hands fumbled at the back before he caught yours in his and how there's an entire packet of oranges in the drawer, not including the two on the table. As you unwrap it, you ask him a question about himself which he hesitates to answer but does so anyway. In the morning, his mother and sister come to visit him and they bring this cake for him.

He walks out into the hallway filled with the chaos of running shoes but manages to spot you amongst the crowd so he waits patiently till you come back. You spot his messy hair and anxious behaviour to an elderly woman who starts a conversation with him but most of all, you chuckle when you see the distinctive, yellow bandage on his cheek. He's had it since he first came in. These memories are distinct, easier to pick out because of the emotion that had flown in with them. You are sat at the very end of the hospital, tucked away safely in the comfort of each other's arms. He's telling you what he first thought of you as he presses your leg to ease the pain you are feeling from running around all day.

Junhoe:

Running along the canal, you take in deep breaths when the soft music that comes in does nothing to fuel your endurance. Your chest burns and you are trying to adapt to the excess ache and pain of the burn that has stretched your muscles out. You heave as you sit down and a few moments later, Junhoe catches up with you, panting as he takes a seat. While you catch your breath, Junhoe wants to say something but he doesn't, causing the both of you to laugh when he waives it away.

You are sitting on opposite sides of the bench, leaning on the hand rail and leaning all your weight on it. While you look ahead, many others litter the tracks further down, away from the lake in front. It glistens with the bright pines of the sun's rays, reflecting the dog's reflection as it steadily laps at it. Yesterday, it was darkened by the reflection of the heavier clouds, giving it the image of ruined tracks or the feeling of being burned-out.

''We shouldn't have sat down'' Junhoe points out, his dismay clear as he struggles to get up, especially with you laughing. You had already started to feel unsure, you lacked the creative energy in the morning to go out but Junhoe had showed up, unusually on time and in just the right clothes. You had chuckled, nodding before he could ask, leaving the door open as you left to change. The he had suggested that you run a distance you could not fathom, you were feeling a drag, this holding back, to stay in the comfort of your house.

You had simply said yes, regret was too late for words by the time he had started, multiple times you had thought of stopping but not once did you say anything. He asks if you want to run but then reveals the truth because he has already known how you've been feeling. Surprise as your expression belittles his knowledge as he carefully explains to you how he knows. He suggests that you don't run but instead walk with him to which it only occurs after you express your interest in it.

There is amiability to walking with him, his hand gently holds onto yours. His grasp is loose, softly caressing the skin as wind blows away the limits of humidity, letting out collective sighs from the two of you. He comments on the weather and you laugh in agreement, linking arms with him. Such a slow pace to see the ducks gather around a traveller giving them food eases you, affection coating your eyes as you stare. When you get home, you tell him that you'd rather go to sleep but he keeps you awake with his countless poetic ideas and the thought of food before it can arrive.

Donghyuk:

''What's wrong- tell me'' he says, voice not as soft as it was the first time and spoken with determination- like the last straw as if he had made his mind up to help you. You nod but you don't move from your space on the sofa. You absent-mindedly stare at the skyscrapers far removed from your balcony but today, not that far away. The city is bustling, you know it without even having to look down.

Donghyuk looks at where you were looking and lets out a sigh, heavily, as he heads to the kitchen, stuttering around the cut vegetables and a pan on the unlit stove. Your phone, on, is laid near the stove which he traces the steps all the way to the carpet, areas ruffled where your knees had sunk into. Fingerprints coat the glass table on the carpet, the painting is hung sideways and what looks like stray pieces of glass on the floor.

He threads the carpet, slowly taking you into his arms, like the questions, what can I do for you? To make you happy, what can I do for you? In the reflection, you have no answer. There is an uncertain silence from Donghyuk who holds you, his voice also lost to the undulated sways you emanate in your reflection. In the silence he can not stand, he takes you outside to the bright lights dropping on quivering leaves and rugged stones for heavier walking.

Your steps falter slightly behind him, your questioning gaze staring up at him like a switch that has been turned on, you halt. He turns back and smiles and you wonder why. The truth is right in front of him, on you, when you raise your hand to cover your eyes from the shifting sun rays thus further showing him what he had needed to see from the start. It is like a piece, one-show but he knows that he can always come back to find it. It is best described as a smile.

Chanwoo:

Grabbing the laptop, you detach the charger, lifting it off the table and laying it onto the bed. You listen for the creaks and groans on the wooden floor outside your office whilst biting your lip, trying to concentrate on completing two things at once. You pull your laptop stand from its place, closing it, almost throwing it against the bookshelf. A thud, foreign to the silence outside, speeds up your heart rate, further drying your mouth.

You hold your breath, baiting whoever is peering inside with light steps like moving around the room to pull out books for references. You sit down; nothing leaves your sight. You pull out your laptop, open it, select files with clammy hands. You think about how the clamminess is a distraction, something you need not think about now and so you pressed on. A slip of frustration, a sigh of discontent escapes you as your fingers slip across the motherboard.

The ultimate hitch precluding the blue skies and warm laughter of children is when Chan knocks on the door, not expecting to see you twitch in your seat. He narrows his eyes at the movement, never having seen you so restless in the time of your love. With burdensome footsteps, he walks towards you, meeting your smile with a smile, gleefully. You feel as if he has skipped over to you, similar to the beginning. When he looks at your screen, his pupils dilate, he holds your seat, pulling you back.

There is faint tension in the air, nothing matters right now more than the darkness of the room. The silence is impenetrable as if he is to ask how you are doing but it would only sour the mood. As you move away from him to greet him, he pulls you by your shoulders, holding you in place as he kisses the top of your forehead. He can see the home screen, all tabs closed and mouse astray. You have frozen from neck to torso, just like how your legs are stuck to the chair and feet to the ground. Aimlessly, you look over at the ball-pen, waiting to be written with.

He squeezes your shoulders, telling you, ''Are you okay? You don't look well.''. You nod, sighing as you finally turn to him, wrapping your arms around him, sighing in relief to see him. As if the preceding event to the main, he lightly cards his fingers through your hair, lifting you off the seat. Had you not been so focused, your attention turned astray, you would have quickly removed the weapon under your desk. But you can not help it, because even you are not unsurpassable. He leads you out, where the steels click around your wrists, binding them together.

[thecoreseven]

७ iKON - Random

७ caso pegue, curta ou reblog/if you get it, like or reblog ♡ icons por @woojiniepk

DRIVE

[pohpmicroblog]

21: Beautiful Noona Who Stole His Heart | Koo Junhoe Fanfic

He wanted to see Chaerim, but he knew, that like every other time, he’d have to hold the tears in. She had it worse than he ever could. #kpop #ikon #Fanfic

After parking the car, Kwangseok walked back into the hospital, already feeling bad about being rude to Junhoe.

He first walked to the reception to sign Chaerim in. She already had a folder in the hospital, so it did not take long. After he filled in the forms, he was directed to where she was. The directions were unnecessary. He already knew the corridors well. He slowly walked through…

[sardonicallys]

hangover beach ⇢ junhoe

masterlist

Heavy wind amongst trees occasionally emulated the sound of waves crashing ashore, kissing the sand before whisking away the stray particles along to wander amongst the salt water. Not quite abandoned, and rather in good company, you felt a sense of familiarity to the grains as you woke up coddled in those very rock fragments as you peered over, not having to search very far, to spot the resting body you were looking for beside you. A foggy recollection of the night before left a crooked smile on your lips as you crawled towards him, pressing your face into his back as he groaned in discomfort, a groggy echo that reverberated against the rocks that shaded the two of you.

"I'm cold, hug me."

"...Hug yourself."

"But June, I'm cold."

"Sucks to suck."

[littleshopofk-pop]

## ikon masterlist

S — smut

F — fluff

A — angst

C — crack

nothing to see here … yet

nothing to see here … yet

REQUESTS FOR HIM ARE CLOSED

OS

› flesh kinktober '21 day 1 [S]

nothing to see here … yet

nothing to see here … yet

nothing to see here … yet

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

full masterlist

[faes-land]

iKON Masterlist

🔞=Smut, 💞=Fluff, 💔=Angst

Donghyuk/DK: 

Our First Time 🔞💞

Junhoe/JUNE: 

Good Morning 🔞

[noona-clock]

The Personal Trainer

Genre: Gym!AU

Pairing: Junhoe x You (Female!Reader)

Warnings: None

Part 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 | Words: 2,395

Finally, after weeks of putting up with your older brother’s badgering, you caved. You relented to his persistent suggestions to sign up at the gym close to your apartment -- and not only that. You had signed up (and paid extra for) personal training.

You really had never been one to find any sort of exercise enjoyable. You hated getting sweaty, and you had yet to find any activity you actually wanted to do. Just thinking about going to the gym and running on a treadmill or doing strength training made you feel like whining. And hiding under your covers in bed. And sleeping for about a week.

It’s not your fault you were lazy! It’s just how you were! It’s who you were as a person, and now that you were well into adulthood, you had come to accept that about yourself.

But, apparently, your brother had not.

He claimed to be “concerned for your long-term health,” but you knew he really just couldn’t stand lazy people and wanted everyone he cared about to love working out just as much as he loved working out.

It would never happen, but you got irritated enough to give it a try.

So, here you were. Wearing brand new workout clothes and scanning your fresh, new membership card at the front desk of the gym.

“Excuse me?” you asked the gorgeous, young receptionist who looked worlds better in a spandex crop top than you ever could.

“Hmm?” she chirped, shifting her gaze up to you. “How can I help?”

“Where do I go for personal training?”

The girl stood up, a beaming, friendly smile tugging at her lips as she replied, “Right over there!” and pointed to a closed-off area to the side of the main exercise room.

“Thank you,” you murmured with a slight grin before heading over there.

“Have a great session!” she called out cheerfully after you.

...How could you be that cheerful working in a gym?

I mean, obviously, a lot of people could be. But you couldn’t imagine it. The only place at which you’d be that cheerful to work would be... like, a candy store. Or a coffee shop. Definitely something to do with food.

Anyway. 

Your heart began to beat faster as you approached the personal training area, and you chewed the inside of your cheek when you realized your trainer -- whoever he or she was -- hadn’t shown up yet.

Then again, you were basically always early to anything and everything, so it shouldn’t have been a surprise that you’d arrived before your trainer.

You let out a soft sigh as you set your bag and water bottle down next to the wall of the fairly small, roped-off area designated for personal training, and then you slid onto a bench to wait.

As the seconds ticked by, you found your gaze wandering out into the main area of the gym -- who didn’t love people watching? Especially when you were just sitting somewhere waiting for someone else to arrive.

To your slight surprise, the ellipticals and bikes and treadmills were not occupied solely by buff guys and fit ladies. There were definitely some of those, but you also saw a couple of -- truly no offense intended -- average people running and cycling their hearts out. There was even an older, gray-haired man speed-walking on a treadmill, and it brought a tiny smile to your face.

At the very least, it made you feel better that you didn’t seem to be the most unfit person here.

Just as you turned back around, you caught a glimpse of someone walking toward the personal training area.

...Maybe your eyes were playing tricks on you, but you could’ve sworn --

You shook your head quickly to dispel the thought.

No. It couldn’t be.

“Hey,” you heard a voice call out.

And it was a very familiar voice.

Indeed, the familiar voice of the person you thought for a split-second you’d seen in your peripheral vision walking over here.

...Great.

You stood, your heart jumping up into your throat as you turned to face...

Him.

Junhoe.

Your ex-boyfriend.

As soon as he saw you, Junhoe stopped in his tracks. His eyes widened slightly, but it was enough to be noticeable.

What -- was he -- I mean, was he also here for personal training or was he --

“Are you my trainer?” you blurted out. Your nerves were very obvious in your voice, and you scolded yourself for letting your anxiety show right now.

Junhoe’s mouth fell open, but it took him a few seconds to actually answer you.

“...Yeah.”

Wonderful.

So, he was a personal trainer now? After your break-up a couple of years ago, you hadn’t kept up with him on social media (but you still stalked his sister on Instagram kind of regularly... not that you would ever admit that out loud), so you hadn’t even known he’d quit his job at the music store.

Now that you thought about it, going from working at a music store to being a personal trainer was kind of an odd jump.

But that was Junhoe for you. He was predictable in some ways, but in many ways, he absolutely was not.

That was ultimately why you’d ended things with him. The romantic aspect of your relationship had been great -- more than great, actually, but Junhoe just hadn’t been stable enough for you. He was too spontaneous for your schedule-loving, plan-everything-within-an-inch-of-your-life self.

But, looking at him now...

Good god, was he handsome or what? He always had been and, apparently, he always would be.

“Ah,” you replied somewhat breathlessly, your nerves slowly sucking all the air from your lungs. “Well. I -- I guess I’m your new -- trainee... person... thing.”

At that, Junhoe’s expression relaxed, and an amused smile appeared on his lips.

“Yeah, I guess so,�� he replied with a soft chuckle. He then stepped closer to you, his eyebrows raising just a smidge. “...How -- how are you?”

“I’m good -- doing well -- just fine,” you replied, inwardly cringing at how awkwardly you’d answered him. “Nothing much has changed, really. Same job, same apartment, same cat.”

You knew from your Instagram stalking escapades that things had changed more for him than they had for you since your break-up. He’d moved in with his sister at one point, and he had adopted the tiniest, fluffiest puppy you’d ever seen. And, apparently, he now had a different job.

“That’s great,” he said. The grin on his lips was genuine, and it kind of warmed your heart to see that he really did think it was great that your life hadn’t changed. He obviously remembered how greatly you valued stability and routine and structure.

You were about to ask him how he was doing (despite the fact you had a good idea based on his sister’s Instagram), but he clapped his hands together and said, “Well, we should probably get started” before you got the chance to.

“Right,” you murmured, feeling your heart jump again. You had been nervous about starting personal training before, but now that your ex-boyfriend was going to be your trainer...

Despite the fact this was your first ever personal training session -- and Junhoe knew this -- he didn’t go easy on you.

Maybe he was still bitter about your break-up and had made you work super hard because he wanted you to feel as much physical pain as he’d felt emotional pain a couple of years ago.

...Or.

And this is the most likely option.

Maybe he was just a tough and passionate trainer who didn’t believe in easy exercising.

(You kind of still wanted to believe he was still bitter, though.)

(But no one needs to know that.)

After the hour was up (though, you were hard-pressed to believe it had only been an hour), you found yourself lying on your back, staring up at the gym ceiling, and trying to catch your breath.

The workout had just ended, but already, every part of your body hurt.

“Good job,” Junhoe chuckled, holding his hand out to help you up.

You closed your eyes briefly because you really did not feel like getting up yet. 

“Are you sure?” you panted. “It doesn’t feel like I did a good job. It feels like I did a horrible job.”

“No, no, you did good,” he assured you with one of his signature smirks -- you know, the same one that had been the first thing to make your stomach flip back when you’d met him. “Come on, let me help you up.”

Well. You had to get up some time, so it might as well be now. The sooner you left the gym, the sooner you got to take a hot bath with three pounds of Epsom salts sprinkled in the water.

Weakly, you lifted one hand, allowing Junhoe to grab it and hoist you up. You were basically dead weight because you were so exhausted, but he was able to pull you to a standing position all on his own. And quite easily, too. It was... pretty impressive.

Junhoe had certainly had a great body while he’d been your boyfriend, but you had no doubt his job as a personal trainer had only done good things to his physique. 

...Mm, nope, better not think about his muscles. It’s not good to think about an ex-boyfriend’s muscles. Especially when that ex-boyfriend is standing right in front of you.

“See you Wednesday?” he asked casually once you were (basically) on your feet, referring to your next training session.

“Y--yeah,” you stammered. “Wednesday. Absolutely.”

There was a pause, and you were just about to turn and grab your bag... but then Junhoe broke the silence.

“Listen, I -- if you don’t want me to be your trainer, I can ask --”

“No, it’s fine,” you interrupted, though... to be quite honest... you weren’t really sure why you said that.

Was it fine?

I mean, sure, your session had gone pretty well. In terms of your interactions, at least. You had felt awkward at first, but you’d gotten used to it after a while, and Junhoe hadn’t acted at all like an ex-boyfriend -- only a trainer.

But... still.

Did you really want to see him three days a week? After not seeing him at all for about two years?

(Not seeing him at all in person, that is. You’d definitely seen him in pictures since, as we’ve established multiple times, you stalked his sister’s Instagram.)

But Junhoe’s lips had already curved into a smile at your reassurance, and you would feel too guilty if you took it back now and asked for another trainer.

“Okay,” he murmured through his grin. “Well, then. See you Wednesday.”

You just nodded before hoisting your bag over your shoulder and beginning to make your way out of the personal training area and into the gym -- limping slightly as you walked, mind you.

It felt like it took you about five hours to leave the gym, get to your car, get inside your car, drive home, walk up to your front door, go to your bathroom, and draw a bath.

And now that you were in the bath -- the hot water and scented Epsom salts relaxing your muscles like nothing ever had before in your entire life -- you were pretty sure you were going to stay in here for another five hours.

You tilted your head back, letting the base of your skull rest against the edge of the tub and closing your eyes. You breathed in the healing aroma of the salts and sighed with content.

Truly, there was nothing better after a long day than a nice, relaxing bath.

...Well, actually. A nice, relaxing bath with some music playing.

Opening your eyes and lifting your head, you reached out and stretched your arm to grab your phone nestled in your discarded clothes on the floor.

Just as you opened up your music app of choice, though, your ringtone cut through the silence and made you jump.

Your eyes narrowed when you saw your brother’s picture on the screen, but your heart was still racing with fright as you answered and pressed your phone to your ear.

“What?” you asked irritably. “You interrupted my Me Time.”

“How was the gym?”

You couldn’t stop yourself from rolling your eyes because of course that’s why he was calling.

And you were just annoyed enough to be sassy about it.

“Well, my personal trainer ended up by my ex-boyfriend, so thanks for that.”

Your brother chuckled softly and said, “Junhoe? No way, what are the odds?”

“No matter the odds, it happened, and I’m blaming you.”

“No, no, no, Dear Sister. You will be thanking me when you have more energy and don’t get out of breath walking up two flights of stairs.”

“Okay, those were very long staircases!”

“You’re going back, right?”

You waited a few seconds... let out a long sigh... then replied, “I mean, I paid for two months of sessions. I don’t want to lose that money.”

“Was it super awkward?”

“Well, yeah,” you shrugged. “At first. It got better once we were actually training, but... still. It’s not like I had a pleasant time.”

Your brother chuckled softly and said, “Hey, you never know. Maybe it’s fate.”

You quirked one brow. “...Fate? What?” you asked, entirely unamused.

“You never know!” he repeated in a singsong tone. “Good luck on your next session, keep me posted, okay?”

“Whatever,” you murmured, though you could feel a smirk tugging at one corner of your lips.

“Love you, Sis,” he teased (but you knew he really meant it).

“Love you, too, Bro,” you teased back (but you obviously really meant it).

As soon as the call ended, you tapped on the icon for your music app and pressed shuffle on your relaxing Jazz playlist.

After tossing your phone back onto your pile of clothes, you leaned your head against the edge of the tub again and closed your eyes.

The bath, although it was starting to cool already, and the ambient music were doing wonders to ease your aches -- both physical and mental.

But... your brother’s words kept ringing in your head, for some reason.

You never know.

Part 2

[pawkhyun]

Love Language

A very short Junhoe/Reader fluff au (?) idk what to call it lol

Author's notes: this was made impulsively so i don't really like how it ended :( but i hope you guys still like it !! i might try writing a smut fic soon~

The days seem to pass by slower nowadays, even if Junhoe's schedule has been clear for a few weeks straight now and has been at the dorm. You're glad to see the seven of them again so often; usually, you'd have the dorm all to yourself. You would get your spare keys and see yourself in, spending the day lounging at the boys' place and cleaning up a little while you're there.

You don't know exactly when, but it was excruciatingly obvious by now. Things have changed between you and Junhoe.

He was never the type to be all too affectionate, even at the start of dating. He'd write you poems, steal kisses from you once in a blue moon when the both of you are alone, but never did he show any display of affection that is, even in the slightest, bold, regularly.

The past few months have been different though. He seems a bit colder, less caring. He doesn't spend much of his time with you, and despite his schedule being free, he hasn't even asked you to go out with him. Hell, Chanwoo even offered the two of you go to a PC room together before Junhoe even tried to arrange the smallest of plans with you, which is apparently movie night because his friends weren't down to drink tonight.

Thing is, you aren't really sure of yourself, either. You might be overthinking, you consider. The thought frustrates you further.

You unknowingly let out a sigh while you and Junhoe are watching the movie together. You were too occupied by your thoughts to even process the film in front of you.

"You okay?" Junhoe asks, without missing a beat. But his eyes are still glued to the tv screen.

"Yes, jagi, I'm fine." You say, voice giving away your fragility.

Junhoe finally takes one look at you — and then reaches for the remote to switch the tv off.

The both of you are plunged in darkness, save for the dim light that had filtered through the shoji screen separating the kitchen and the living room. He takes both of your hands. You almost forgot how your tiny hands could easily be enveloped by his.

"Hey," Junhoe begins, looking at your hands in his, "did I do something wrong?"

His question takes you aback. "No, why?"

"It's just that you haven't really been happy recently. I haven't seen you smile in a while," His voice lowers in volume, making the statement seem all the more intimate. "I thought I might've done something serious without knowing."

Your expression softens at his concern. "It's just that..." you trail off, reluctant. You see Junhoe leaning in, eager to listen, so you continue. "You haven't been spending much time with me lately, and your schedule's been free for ages. I just thought we could've spent more time together since you haven't been home in forever."

Junhoe hums inquisitively, a sudden change of mood. He lets go of your hands and leans back onto the couch, and pats the seat beside him. "Come here, jagi."

As you scoot over closer to him, he snakes his arm over your shoulder. He looks at you again before planting a quick kiss onto your forehead.

"Y/N, I'm sorry. I haven't been spending as much time with you as I'd like, too, if I'm being honest," He cooed, staring right into your soul. "Do you want to spend the entire day together tomorrow? Maybe the next few weeks, too."

You beam at his offer. "Of course," you say, leaning back and enjoying the warmth of his chest. You feel his heart thud at your movements, making you all the more charmed. You began to wonder if this man could make your knees buckle just by breathing. And honestly, he probably could.

"I promise I'll spend more time with you," he says, pulling you in closer. "This feels much better than any night out drinking, anyways."

Maybe you were overthinking things. After all, Junhoe's love language has always been conveyed through the little things. Either way, you were more than glad to spend the next few weeks with your boyfriend.

[soundsofcicadas]

Swan song, part two

Pairing: Koo Junhoe x Reader (f) 

Genres: Drama, Angst, Romance, Childhood best friends, Junhoe is a former idol, Friends to lovers 

Count: 3004

Warnings: None 

Synopsis: After an unexpected encounter with your childhood best friend Junhoe, years after drifting apart, your rekindled friendship blooms anew. However, life takes a turn when he asks you to pen an article for his upcoming wedding. As you become entangled in his personal life, your old feelings of love for him begin resurfacing and the concealed secret behind his decision to abandon his idol career is soon to be unveiled by you. 

“I want to go home.” You heard Hanbin complain, the moment you set foot inside the building where the art exhibit was currently taking place. It was a serene Sunday evening, and the venue is located at the heart of your hometown. A prominent sign displayed a vivid picture of the artist, Hwang Hyunjin at the entrance. Beneath his captivating blonde portrait, the bold title “Mind Visions and Their Facets Through Colors” was emblazoned with a disclaimer discreetly positioned at the bottom: “All proceeds from this event contribute to charitable causes.” 

Disregarding Hanbin's comment, you searched for any sign of your other friend Yunhyeong among the sea of faces. 

“Yun is here somewhere.” Your voice pierced through the bustling crowd. 

“Thank God for free food courtesy of our Song Yunhyeong.” Hanbin remarked, his senses easily caught the aroma coming from the opulent spread of delicacies at the catering area of the exhibit. 

The elegant space was infused with vibrant energy as a steady stream of attendees filtered in. Each well-dressed guest radiated an aura of affluence, mingling amid the artwork. Their cultured chatter carried an air of sophistication, indicating that they were the elite of the art world, gathered to appreciate the abstract pieces on display. Clad in a chic Ralph Lauren cocktail dress, you couldn't thank Junhoe enough for reminding you of the theme for tonight’s event. You were also grateful to Hanbin's girlfriend, Yeri, who, despite the limited preparation time, had managed to lend you an outfit from her designer-filled wardrobe. 

Like a burst of energy against the artistic refined setting, you spotted Yunhyeong hurrying toward the three of you. His face lit up seeing his friends waiting for him. 

“And so, fate has its own way of bringing us back together!” Yunhyeong exclaimed, his voice taking on a narrator's cadence, making you all chuckle. 

“It's quite a coincidence, isn't it? I got picked to cater for tonight's exhibit, the very event you guys were invited to by Junhoe.” Yunhyeong marveled, his voice quickly returning to its usual tone. 

“I wish Jiwon and Donghyuk could be here too." You sighed with longing. 

You felt Hanbin's hand gently pat your shoulder. 

“If it weren't for you and the free food, I wouldn't be here either.” He sneered.   

You playfully crossed your arms and raised an eyebrow at Hanbin, fully aware that he was only joking. As the introvert of the group, you understood that events like these weren't his comfort zone. But last night's video call with him and the other boys proved otherwise. He, too, wanted to see Junhoe after you shared your surprising reunion with him. It was heartwarming how they handled the situation with maturity, without any lingering resentment toward their old friend. 

Well, maybe Hanbin was a little sulky about the whole situation at first knowing how close you were with Junhoe in the past. He had seen how much you were hurting during Junhoe's absence. Despite you being older than him, he had always acted like a caring older brother to you. While Yunhyeong, Jiwon, and Donghyuk were also there for you, Hanbin's presence remained a constant in your life. He may have had his initial reservations, yet he chose to trust your judgment when you expressed Junhoe's sincerity to reconnect by inviting them to the art exhibit as well. 

“Yeah, I know you're only here for the food, Bin.” Yunhyeong retorted. “You don't have a single ounce of appreciation for art. So, if I were you, Yeri, I'd think twice about marrying this guy.” 

Yeri laughed at Yunhyeong’s jest and cast a mischievous look at Hanbin. 

“Excuse me?” Hanbin arched his eyebrows at Yunhyeong, seemingly offended. “Art is something I’m very fond of. I'm just not particularly keen on attending large gatherings like this.” 

“Dude, you teach a whole class of elementary kids and conduct yearly PTAs, how is this any different?” Yunhyeong expressed confusion.    

“Being in a crowd full of art elitists is a whole different ball game.” Hanbin replied flatly. "I don't have to pretend around children. If they don't like you, they don't, if they tell you you're ugly that's because it's true." 

You and Yunhyeong can't help but snort at Hanbin's answer. 

Amused with her boyfriend, Yeri intercepted. “Well, these art elitists are what y/n and I deal at work, babe.” 

“But you aren't like them, so I also don't have to pretend when I'm with you two.” Hanbin quipped. 

“You're forgetting my dad owns a publishing company, which means I'm part of this privileged community you dislike.” Yeri stated with mischievous intention, while tapping her finger on her chin.  

Hanbin took her hand in his as if to tease her. “Dislike is a strong word, but that's exactly the reason why I'm gonna marry you babe.” 

Yeri burst out laughing along with you and Yunhyeong, eliciting strange looks from the guests passing by your circle. 

There was a ping from Yeri's phone which was her cue to leave the group for the meantime. 

“Chanwoo needs me now for that magazine feature, I have to go.” Yeri noted, kissing Hanbin on the cheek before turning to you.  “Don't worry, y/n, leave this to me. I want you to enjoy the event with the guys.” She gave your shoulder a reassuring squeeze and vanished into the crowd. 

You nearly forgot that the artist himself personally invited your editor-in-chief, Jung Chanwoo to the exhibit as well. He asked you to cover the event for a potential feature on your magazine's upcoming issue, knowing that you and Yeri would be present tonight. But Yeri volunteered to do it in your place instead. 

You could only smile at Yeri’s thoughtfulness. “She’s technically my boss, but she sometimes acts more of an associate like me.” 

“Man, you're lucky to have Yeri!” Yunhyeong remarked, throwing a playful jab at Hanbin’s stomach. 

“I’m also lucky to have her as my boss.” You concurred.  

“But what time is Junhoe coming though?” Yunhyeong asked, his gaze roamed across the hall to find Junhoe. You and Hanbin both glanced around to look for Junhoe too. 

You took out your phone when you felt it vibrate from your purse and saw Junhoe's text; Hi, I'm here, where are you? 

At that exact moment, you easily sensed there had been a sudden shift in the crowd's murmurs. Whispers and hushed conversations began rippling through the guests, and like them, your attention was immediately captured by a lavish pair making their way to the front doors.  

You catch yourself staring at Junhoe who was dressed impeccably in a black Prada suit. But you didn't fail to notice the woman accompanying him—none other than his fiancée, Shin Yuna. 

You saw it on the news a year ago—his engagement to his girlfriend of four years. A model and singer-turned-actress he met from one of his movies when he was still acting. The two made their relationship public after promoting their romantic comedy film. It was believed that the co-stars developed feelings for each other on set.  

You had seen him wearing the engagement ring on his finger at the coffee shop yesterday—a detail you had momentarily forgotten. Seeing him now walking with his fiancée by his side reminds you of his existing commitment.  

Before you could even reply to his message, Junhoe already saw you and was strolling closer to your direction.  

“Y/n!” He called. “Sorry we got stuck in traffic a bit. So glad you made it.” 

Junhoe beamed at you. 

You felt embarrassed for yourself because you knew that smile had some effect on you. You could only blame it on his meticulously slicked black hair, or his sharp, masculine features like his chiseled jawline. His well-tailored Prada suit accentuated his lean frame, adding an aura of suaveness to his already striking appearance. Junhoe exuded a strong and alluring profile, and the list could go on, but you instantly stopped yourself from having these thoughts. There is no way you are attracted to your childhood best friend, who is obviously engaged to a beautiful, perfect woman such as Shin Yuna. 

“Thank you for the invitation, Junhoe.” You managed to say, desperately hoping you weren't blushing in front of everyone. Might as well just be swallowed whole into the ground. 

Thankfully, Hanbin waved his hand at Junhoe, distracting him away from you. 

“Annyeong!” Hanbin greeted him. 

“Hyung!” Junhoe greeted back, exchanging Hanbin's wave for a warm hug, startling  you and Yunhyeong. Hanbin appeared taken aback, but you could tell he appreciated the brotherly gesture. 

Junhoe then scoffed at Yunhyeong upon seeing him. “Nice to see you too, Yun!” 

Yunhyeong shook his head and played along with Junhoe's taunts, forcing you to laugh with them as if it were the old times. 

“Junhoe you haven’t changed a bit. I'm the oldest and you still disrespect me.” 

“I bet you missed me so much huh?” 

“Never once thought of you at all. The only reason I'm here is because they need my excellent catering service.” 

“There's poison in the food for sure.” 

“Why don't you starve in the corner please? Thank you very much.” 

It was their usual back-and-forth banter since childhood that you had missed.  Among the boys, Yunhyeong was the oldest and everyone addressed him as hyung, except Junhoe. The other boys never questioned it. They knew Yunhyeong had a soft spot for the youngest, just like you had always favored Junhoe, even though they often acted like the Tom and Jerry of the group. 

Amidst the playful chatter, Junhoe felt Yuna's grasp, redirecting his attention to her.  

“I'm sorry about that jagiya.” Junhoe felt a slight wave of panic realizing he had nearly forgotten to introduce her to his friends.  

“By the way, this is my fiancée Shin Yuna.” 

Yuna offered a polite smile as she took a glimpse at each of you. It was undeniable how well she complemented Junhoe. Adorned in a stunning Versace gown, Shin Yuna was a doe-eyed, charismatic woman with a figure that boasted possibly the tiniest waist you had ever seen. 

Before any of you could exchange greetings with her, she had already excused herself. 

“I'm sorry I can't stay longer, but it was nice meeting all of you! I'll leave Junhoe with you guys.” 

Is it just you, or does it look like she doesn't want to be here and interact with Junhoe's old friends? 

You could see the instant dismay on Junhoe's face upon hearing that from his fiancée. 

“Yuna, we just got here.” He said, sounding disappointed. 

Yuna swiveled to face him, her voice lowered but still audible. “Jun, honey, you're with your friends. I'd like to look at the paintings, and besides, Hyunjin wants to see me.” 

Junhoe sighed in resignation. “Fine. Tell Hyunjin I said hi. I'll catch up with the two of you later.” 

“Great!” Yuna pecked Junhoe's lips and left without saying another word to your group.  

A brief awkward silence ensued before Junhoe suggested, “Let's get some wine, shall we?” 

************************************************************************ 

Knowing you didn't own a car, Hanbin offered to drive you home that same evening. His route would conveniently pass by your apartment, unlike Yunhyeong and Yeri who live in opposite directions. They also wanted to guarantee you'll get home safely rather than having to commute like you usually do. But all throughout the ride, the events from earlier were playing over in your mind. Seeing Junhoe again with Yunhyeong and Hanbin, filled you with overwhelming happiness. Despite Jiwon and Donghyuk's absence, you found solace in their company as you all reminisced about the past and shared updates on your current lives. 

There was, however, a hint of melancholy as the conversation took a more personal turn. Was it the sadness you caught in Junhoe's eyes when he told Yunhyeong and Hanbin about giving up his singing career? Or was it because he already had plans to marry Yuna? Maybe it was how you were reminded of your own single hood when they asked you casually about your dating status—why, among all your friends, had you never been in a relationship? 

Well, that wasn't entirely true. You had a few dates that just never turned into something serious. You could only brush it off, claiming you were never interested in anyone and were too focused on work. But deep down you knew that wasn't the case anymore, especially now that you've reconnected with Junhoe. You couldn't stop yourself from admiring how effortlessly handsome he looked all night, and how gentlemanly he had been towards you. You knew it was wrong, yet why did seeing him with Yuna affect you? Perhaps you had too much wine at the exhibit that made you think this way. 

You didn't notice the engine of the car turned off until Hanbin's voice spoke to you. “You're home.” 

“Thanks Bin.” You gave him a lopsided grin from the passenger seat.  

“Did you have fun?” He asked observing your face slightly illuminated by the light coming from your apartment building.  

“Did you?” You returned the question to him. 

“It was really nice.” He answered as he pulled his hands off the steering wheel. 

“I was so caught up talking to you guys that I've almost forgotten about the paintings!” You told him. 

You and Hanbin chuckled at that. 

Hanbin's countenance took on a serious tone, as though he wanted to talk to you longer while you were still in the car. 

“You know how long we've been best friends right?” He started. 

“Since forever.” You smiled sheepishly. 

“And that makes you easy for me to read.” He stated. 

“O-kay yeah, I guess. Your point?” You asked, puzzled as to where he was going with this. 

“I don't know why all this time I've never told you this, y/n." Hanbin paused for a few seconds before he continued,  “I know you've been in love with Junhoe ever since.” 

Silence fell on you. You didn't know how to respond to that. You wanted to deny it outright, to refute his words that you only love and see Junhoe as a friend, yet no sound escaped your lips. The words were stuck in your throat, tangled with your conflicting emotions. Junhoe had always been a cherished childhood friend, akin to a little brother. This perception made it easier for you to dismiss any deeper feelings you might have had for him. You convinced yourself that they were purely platonic to maintain the status quo. Nevertheless, you were aware that you had been suppressing the truth about how your affection for him had grown into something more profound, despite your efforts to dismiss it. The countless seasons spent together during your childhood as you grew up alongside him and watched him chase his dreams, had inevitably laid the foundation for a mere friendship that went beyond. 

“Let's be real here, he's the exact reason why you can't take any guy seriously.” Hanbin added. 

You just sat there, unable to form a coherent response. Whenever you attempted to date or enter a relationship, you found yourself retreating, sensing that something was always missing. No matter how hard you tried to deny it, no one could compare to Junhoe.

You attempted to push aside these unwelcome thoughts, knowing that there was no possibility he could feel the same way about you, not to mention he could be getting married soon. You reassured yourself that you would come to terms with your feelings and move on once he took that step. For now, you resolved to remain content in your role as a friend, focusing on valuing the friendship you have rather than dwelling on what could never be. 

“I know my place, Bin.” You finally got to tell him. “I’m happy with what we have right now.” 

“Look, all I wanted to say is, I just don't want you to end up hurt again.” Hanbin expressed his concern. 

“You know I’m a big girl right? I can look after myself.” You winked at him. “I appreciate you though.” 

Hanbin could only let out a sigh. He averted his gaze from you and suddenly shifted the subject that had you flabbergasted. 

“Something seems off about his fiancée. I can sense it, and it makes me feel sorry for him.”  

"What the hell, Bin?" You retorted. 

Hanbin has an intuitive knack for assessing people he meets, often making character judgments based on first impressions. Unfortunately, Yuna was no exception. 

"We don't really know what their relationship is like in private." You could only say. Although you admit you were offended by how she behaved that way in front of his fiance's friends.  

Hanbin continued. 

“I don't understand why Junhoe had to give up singing for writing, you know? Even acting, he gave up too.  Can't he do it all at the same time? I thought he loved singing more than anything.” 

That's what you have thought as well. Junhoe has always had a great love for singing, a passion evident to anyone who knew him. From a young age, his talent shone brightly, captivating audiences with his soulful voice. He seemed born for the stage, effortlessly blending emotion and skill in every performance. Singing wasn't just a hobby for Junhoe; it was his calling, the very essence of his being. You asked yourself if he genuinely wanted to explore other paths and as he said, it was about time he settled down in life by marrying Yuna. You felt a gnawing sense of unease, pondering over Junhoe’s choices. There had to be more to it than meets the eye. It was becoming overwhelming, considering you were grappling with your unresolved feelings for him at the same time. Exhaustion and sleepiness begin to settle in your body. 

You decided not to linger in Hanbin’s car any further, feeling that your night was over. After saying your goodbyes, you walked to your apartment, trying to quiet your racing thoughts. You hoped for a restful night’s sleep to be ready for work the next morning. 

Part one: https://www.tumblr.com/soundsofcicadas/727025864701771776/swan-song-part-one?source=share

[yyparkq]

“Where’s my bra?” you inquired, exasperated. You have been looking for it in the last 15 minutes. 

Junhoe perked his head up slightly from the pillows, eyes still puffy from sleep. “How would I know?” he countered, voice is hoarse from sleep. 

You sighed and whipped around to look at your boyfriend who’s had his face back down in between pillows, his naked back on full display on top of the bed. “You were the one who took it off me last night! Help me find it.” you pulled on his arm but he did not budge. 

“Babe, just wear one from the old ones you have in my dresser.” Junhoe slurred before settling on his back to properly look at you. Your head is still wrapped in towel and your robe untied. You put your hands on your hips, and looked down at him. “I’ll find it, I promise. I’ll even buy you several sets later.” 

"You don’t understand! That pair is one of my favorites and the old ones I have here are either too small or uncomfortable.” you sounded like a whining kid but you don’t care. 

Junhoe reached out for your hips and tucked you back slowly in his previous lying position. “Then just don’t wear anything today, I won’t complain.” 

You scoff at his suggestion. “What, you want me to go braless in front of your parents today?”

[haveanotherkpopblog]

The Nutcracker Suite

Part 4: The Expedition

Pairing: Koo Junhoe x You

Genre: Angst, Ballet!AU, Fluff, Regency!AU

Word Count: 4k

Warnings: Clowns, Mild Language

Masterlist || <<Previous | Next>>

The next morning, Y/N made sure she was dressed comfortably as possible. She wore a red dress, the same color as the pants General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk wore. She even had the same green military jacket they wore. She laced up her boots and pulled her hair into a low and secure bun.

As she made her way down to where she was supposed to meet everyone, she stopped outside the Sugar Plum Fairy’s hut. She stepped past the curtain, calling out to her. She had been hoping for a moment alone with her. She knew she should have left once she realized the Sugar Plum Fairy wasn’t there, but curiosity got the better of her.

She walked around the room, staring at all the magnificent things she owned. The emperor must have been a generous man. Something shiny on the vanity caught her eye. It was the gold key that was supposed to unlock the egg. She picked it up, staring at it. Ju-ne would need this if he was going to defeat the Mouse King. After all, the Sugar Plum Fairy wouldn’t be angry if he had it. He was the prince.

“Looking for something my dear?” Y/N spun around quickly, hiding her arms behind her back. She quickly tucked the key up her sleeve, doing her best to hide her emotions. The Sugar Plum Fairy stood before, looking as regal as she did the day prior. Y/N forced a smile onto her face.

“I was actually looking for you,” she said. Which was true, she had been looking for her. “I was just curious, are you sure you can send me back home?” The Sugar Plum Fairy seemed to relax, a warm smile on her face.

“My dear, once you have the egg, I can send you to wherever your heart desires.” Y/N relaxed her shoulders, a genuine smile on her face. The Sugar Plum Fairy waved her forward. “Now hurry along now, you don’t want to have those boys leave without you now. How rude would that be?” Y/N curtsied briefly before rushing out the door.

Ju-ne was waiting with General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk. Jiwon and Jinhwan were also there, along with Cocoa and Cinnamon. Y/N smiled, descending the steps as fast as a lady could. Jinhwan glanced over and waved. Everyone else turned and welcomed her. Cinnamon let out a whinny, nuzzling into her neck once she was close enough.

“I hope you’re feeling better boy,” she said, rubbing his neck.

“He’s as good as new,” Jiwon said. “He’s even ready to travel.” Jiwon handed the reins to Y/N. She took them hesitantly. “Don’t worry about it. I know you’ll take good care of him.” Y/N smiled.

“That’s really nice of you to let me take him, but the journey could be really dangerous.” Jiwon shrugged, patting Cinnamon on the neck.

“Then you should have at least someone you can trust.” Ju-ne glanced over, a scowl on his face. Jiwon smirked, shooting Y/N a wink. She shook her head, a smile on her face. Jinhwan excused himself from the conversation, making his way over to Y/N.

“My Lady, I just wanted to wish you luck before your journey,” he said.

“Thank you, Jinhwan. I’m sorry you can’t come with us.” He shrugged.

“I know you’ll be perfectly fine without us. You have General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk by your side should things turn awry. And the Nutcracker of course.” Y/N nodded, sparing another glance to Ju-ne. He had returned to his conversation with the General and Lieutenant. “The best of luck to you, Lady Y/N.” Ju-ne came to Y/N’s side, Cocoa next to him.

“Let me help you up,” Ju-ne said. He offered Y/N his hand as she found the stirrup and tossed her leg over the saddle. Once she was situated she gave Ju-ne a satisfied nod. “Are you sure you’re ready? I’d hate for you to change your mind halfway there.”

“The only way I won’t be going is if I’m dead, and seeing as I’m rather much alive, I shall continue on,” she said. Ju-ne smiled, nodding his head.

“As you wish, My Lady.” He mounted Cocoa as General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk mounted their own horses.

“Right then, onward!” General Hanbin called.

The beginning of the journey was, if it had to be put in one word, lackluster. There was a lot of riding and hardly any talk. Y/N let herself fall behind the group slightly. She pulled the key out of her sleeve, staring down at it as it rested in her hand. She glanced up at Ju-ne, who was staring straight ahead. She opened one of the pockets of her coat and tucked the key into it.

She urged Cinnamon forward, falling into pace with Ju-ne. They didn’t talk for a while, enjoying the peace and quiet. General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk would occasionally turn back, making sure the pair was still with them.

A heavy fog began rolling in, turning the blue sky grey and making it difficult to see anything further than the end of your nose. The horses began to whine and stomp their hooves. Y/N tried to calm Cinnamon down, but nothing she did seemed to work. She was thrown from her horse, landing on her back with a loud groan.

“Y/N? Y/N! Are you alright?” Ju-ne called.

“I’m fine, just a bit bruised,” she replied standing up. She brushed the dirt off her skirt, rubbing her backside. “Where are you?” The fog was still too thick to see anything, she’d been thrown away from everyone else. “Ju-ne?”

“Hello!” Y/N whipped around and almost let out a scream. In front of her was a clown, like the kind at the circus her family once went to. It had been an absolute disaster which had resulted in them never going back. Long story short, Y/N was terrified of clowns. “What’re yer doin’ so far from home?”

“I--I don’t know who you are, but you--you stay over there,” she said, backing away from the clown. It cocked its head at an unnatural angle, staring at Y/N with a big grin. “I mean it! Don’t come any closer!” It stood up straight, its unnatural grin on its face. Then, the most horrifying thing Y/N had ever had the displeasure of witnessing occurred.

Like a locket, the clown snapped in half, its top half falling forward, putting it on its hands and feet. Y/N’s eyes furrowed as her mouth fell open in horror. The clown didn’t move, staring at Y/N with the same grin it had the entire time. Its eyes were unblinking, wide, and terrifying. Its head began to spin in a full circle, making Y/N’s stomach lurch.

“Run.”

Turning on her heel she ran as fast as she could as far away as possible. She could hear the clown’s shrill laugh as it chased after her. She didn’t dare to look back as she raced blindly through the fog. She picked up her skirt and ran as hard as she could. Her boots thudded against the ground as she continued on.

The fog began thinning and she could see what appeared to be the outline of woods. Still hearing the clown behind her, but its laughter beginning to grow slightly faint, she pushed on and ran into the woods. She ran until her legs threatened to give out beneath her. The fog was almost completely gone as she stopped and pressed herself against the tree. She was panting heavily as she heard the clown approaching. She put her hand over her mouth, silencing her desperate need for air.

The clown’s steps were slowing, stopping right behind the tree Y/N hid behind. She held her breath, praying the clown couldn’t hear her heart pounding in her chest. Tears welled in her eyes as her lungs begged for oxygen, yet she resisted, continuing to wait as the woods grew deadly silent.

Ever so slowly, Y/N removed her hand from her mouth, taking slow and deliberate breaths. Her heart was still pounding as she slowly peaked around the trunk of the tree. It was completely empty, the clown nowhere in sight. She let out a sigh of relief, shoulders slumping forward.

She went to turn and smacked into something solid. It grabbed her and panic set in. She began kicking and screaming, doing everything in her power to get away from whatever was holding. She kept her eyes shut firmly, pushing whatever had her as hard as possible and kicking with all her might.

“Y/N! It’s me! It’s Ju-ne! Stop hitting!” Once the voice registered in her brain, she stopped fighting. Daring to open one of her eyes, she realized that it was, indeed, Ju-ne who was holding her. Relief flooded her system as she wrapped her arms around his wooden frame. Taken aback by her sudden change in behavior, he cautiously put his arms around her. She began to cry softly as everything that happened finally settled in her brain. Ju-ne rubbed her back, letting her cry into his chest.

Eventually she began to calm down. She slowly released Ju-ne from her death grip. She pulled out a handkerchief and wiped away her tears. She was rather glad that there wasn’t makeup on her face, otherwise she was sure she’d look more like a wreck than she already did.

“Better?” Ju-ne inquired. Y/N nodded, not quite yet trusting her voice. “Okay. I think you needed that.” Y/N nodded again, folding her handkerchief and tucking it back away.

“There you guys are!” Lieutenant Donghyuk emerged from the trees, General Hanbin closely behind him. “We lost you in the fog there. You and the horses it would seem.”

“What was that?” Y/N asked. Her breathing was still rather labored and her voice was shaking. General Hanbin turned back, glaring menacingly at the direction of the fog.

“That is the Mouse King’s magic,” he said.

“That fog is meant to show you your deepest, darkest fears. It’s a magic tactic used in times of war to keep enemies from coming close, or to drive them so full of fear that they never come back,” Ju-ne added. Y/N frowned, staring back at where the clown had returned.

“What an awful trick,” she said. She looked around the woods. Tree branches tangled themselves together, blocking out the sun. Crows cawed from the treetops, swooping at each other. She let out a loud sigh. “Which way to the castle” The three men stared at her shocked. “We’re out of the fog and we’re all alive. If anything, that fog should motivate us to find that egg and return it to the Sugar Plum Fairy. I don’t know what you all saw, but what I saw will haunt me for the rest of my days. I don’t want anyone to live with the fear I just did. So, which way to the castle?”

“It’s, uh, it’s this way,” the General said. He took the lead of the group and began walking through the woods. They stuck closer together, paying attention to every rustle of leaves and tree branch snap. Ju-ne kept a hand on Y/N’s back, keeping her close to him. The closeness heated Y/N’s cheeks. The only time a man’s hand had ever been placed on her back was when she was dancing, and even then most dances didn’t involve touching unless it was each other’s hands.

They continued through the woods until they came to a clearing with a bridge. The bridge in question was, well, questionable. Pieces were missing and the rope seemed like it would snap if the wind blew. Y/N looked around, but she couldn’t see any other place to cross.

“We aren’t crossing her, are we?” Y/N inquired. General Hanbin turned on his heel, quirking a brow.

“And precisely where would you suggest we cross?” he challenged. She furrowed her brows, planting her hands on her hips.

“Certainly not here! That doesn’t look like it could support one of us let alone all of us.”

“My dear lady, you shall do well to remember who is in charge of this expedition.” Y/N fought the urge to roll her eyes as General Hanbin approached the bridge. He straightened his back and squared his shoulders before he took the first step onto the bridge. The bridge shook slightly, but nothing else happened. He looked back smugly before continuing on. Y/N didn’t bother holding back rolling her eyes as they followed him.

Lieutenant Donghyuk followed behind him, copying his steps to a tee. Ju-ne was next, holding his hand out for Y/N. She slipped her hand into his, allowing him to lead her across the rickety bridge. They slowly made their way across the bridge, careful with each step they made.

Crack!

One of the boards gave way and the Lieutenant fell through. Without thinking, Y/N dove to grab his arm. She was able to just catch his wrist, but his weight was pulling her down. He let out a yelp, holding onto her with both hands.

“Don’t let go!” she called.

“Wasn’t planning on it!”

Ju-ne and the General both went to help her, but the bridge began to sway and they stopped moving. Y/N took a deep breath. With all the strength she could summon, she slowly began to pull Lieutenant Donghyuk back up through the hole. Ju-ne, being the closest, reached down as far as he could until he made contact with the Lieutenant. With effortless strength, he pulled the Lieutenant back onto the bridge.

Lieutenant Donghyuk sat back on the bridge, panting heavily. Y/N rubbed her sore shoulder, shooting the General a pointed look. Not wanting to stay on the bridge any longer than necessary, the group moved swiftly, albeit carefully, until they were safely on the other side. Y/N and the Lieutenant collapsed as soon as their feet touched the solid ground. Ju-ne knelt beside Y/N, carefully massaging her shoulder.

“Are you sure you’re okay to travel?” Ju-ne asked. Y/N nodded, taking a deep breath. She turned to the Lieutenant.

“I’m more concerned for your health. You did almost, well, die.” She hated to put it so bluntly, but after everything, they were well past pleasantries. Lieutenant Donghyuk smiled.

“My Lady, you, quite literally, saved my life. Even if I wasn’t in good health to travel, I would to help you reach your goal. I am forever in your debt,” he said, bowing his head. A shy grin took over Y/N’s face. She bowed her head in return.

“Please, think nothing of it. I’m sure you would have done the same.” He nodded his head. General Hanbin called for their attention, insisting that they must continue if they wanted to reach the Mouse King’s castle at a decent time. As they began their journey once again, Ju-ne held Y/N back slightly.

“You really must stop putting your life in danger,” he said. She pursed her lips, staring up ahead at the Lieutenant and General. She shook her head.

“For the first time in my life, I’m doing something extraordinary. I’m a part of something bigger than myself. I’m not familiar with this land, but I know that I would do anything to help. After all, isn’t that what you’re doing?” Ju-ne shook his head, clasping his hands behind his back.

“What I’m doing is saving my people, my own life be damned. So I suppose I can’t blame you too much for being reckless.” Y/N smirked.

“I guess you’re rubbing off on me,” she said, nudging him slightly. He smirked, shaking his head. She thought he heard him say something, but when she didn’t respond and he didn’t repeat himself, she brushed it off as the wind.

Their journey continued until they came across a field of flowers. The flowers seemed to stretch on forever and ever. They all paused, taking in the breathtaking scenery before them. Further past the field was a sea. While the sky above the field was as blue as could be without a single cloud in the sky, the sky over the sea was dark and cloudy, threatening a violent storm.

“The Mouse King’s Castle, which runs adjacent to the Uncrossable Seas, shouldn’t be too much further. We’re approaching from the South side, which gives us the advantage. However, we need to try and find supplies. Since the horses ran off with our supplies, we need to find a way to recover what we lost. Nutcracker, Lady Y/N try the Valley of Eternal Spring, we’ll look closer to the shoreline.” Everyone nodded at General Hanbin’s words.

Y/N and Ju-ne made their way to the field where the flowers filled the air with their sweet scent. Y/N inhaled deeply, a content smile taking over her face. She had never seen so many flowers in one place, especially on the ground. London wasn’t too fond of them, and her mother didn’t keep a garden. “Much too work,” she claimed. When she returned home, she would persuade her father to put one in. They certainly had the room.

From the flowers, tiny balls of colorful lights began floating. They spun around her, mesmerizing her. She peered closely at the tiny balls of light and realized that they were, in fact, tiny fairies. Like the ones from the Wintry Forest. Soft music filled her ears as they fluttered around her. She turned to Ju-ne, a curious smile on her face.

“They’re talking to you,” he said. She glanced at them briefly before turning back to him. He cleared his throat, rubbing the back of his neck. “They’re um, they’re saying you’re--you’re beautiful.” Y/N looked down, turning her head away as a blush crept to her cheeks.

The fairies began dancing around her, going further into the valley. Y/N followed them, curious to see where they were going. They led her over the hill and to the most wonderful thing she could have possibly seen.

“Ju-ne! Come quick!” she called. At the bottom of the hill was the horses, happily munching on grass, and in perfect health. Picking up her skirts, forgetting all proper etiquette she’d been taught since birth, she ran down the hill, positively bubbling with excitement. Cinnamon stopped his lunch briefly to give Y/N a soft neigh. She let out a glorious laugh, resting her head against his.

“I can’t believe it,” Ju-ne said once he reached the bottom of the hill. Y/N smiled, rubbing Cinnamon’s neck affectionately.

“Isn’t it absolutely marvelous?" she said. “Now we won’t have to worry about supplies. We have everything.” The fairies continued to circle around them, dancing to the music only they seemed to hear. Ju-ne watched them too, sneaking peeks at Y/N. The fairies moved closer around them, forcing them to move closer to one another. The fairies continued to do so until Y/N and Ju-ne were almost nose to nose.

They gazed into each other’s eyes, a smile on their faces. Y/N was finding it difficult to continue breathing as Ju-ne watched at her with an unwavering stare. Without breaking eye contact, he reached out for her, his hand barely grazing her knuckles. Y/N felt her breath get caught in her throat as a bolt of electricity shot through her.

Something ran over Y/N’s foot, startling her. She let out a yelp, jumping from her position. Ju-ne let out a hearty laugh, bending over. Y/N looked down and saw a tiny field mouse scampering past her. She let out an annoyed huff, crossing her arms over chest. Ju-ne wiped away imaginary tears, walking past her to grab the General and Lieutenant’s horses, along with Cocoa. Y/N went and grabbed Cinnamon’s reins, leading him towards the hill.

Another mouse ran past her foot, this time only making her jump slightly. Then another one ran past. Then another. Then another. The field seemed to be littered with field mice. Shaking her head, she continued on. Yet she found herself stopping. There was a tall, dark, menacing presence behind her. Ever so slowly she turned around.

All the tiny field mice had come together, running on top of each other to form a giant mouse-like man. Y/N felt her heart jump into her throat at the sight. She mounted Cinnamon, urging him up the hill as fast as he could run. Ju-ne was already with General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk, standing next to a makeshift boat.

“Lady Y/N? What in heaven’s name are you--”

“No time!” Y/N said, cutting General Hanbin off as she dismounted Cinnamon. “Take the horses and hide in the edge of the woods. Quickly!” The giant mouse man was starting to come into view, letting out a high-pitched roar. Y/N looked around, spotting some large sticks. She grabbed rope from one of the sacks on the horses and started tying the sticks together. “You need to go now!”

Lieutenant Donghyuk grabbed the horses’ reins, pulling them to the safety of the woods. Ju-ne tried to argue but General Hanbin pulled him away from Y/N. She did her best to focus on her idea in front of her and not on the approaching monstrosity she had fled from. She began placing the sticks, semi human-like, onto the makeshift boat before she pushed it out into the sea. As fast as she could she ran to the edge of the woods, hiding behind the trees.

Peeking out from behind the large trunk, she watched as the giant mouse man chased after the boat. A fog had settled over the sea, giving the sticks human shadows. As the mice tried to chase after the boat, the mouse man began falling apart. The mice, unable to chase after it, began to retreat back into the Valley of Eternal Spring.

Once the last of the mice had disappeared into the valley, the group re-emerged from the woods. Cinnamon came up behind Y/N, nudging her softly in the back with his nose. She turned around, rubbing his head.

“That was some quick thinking,” General Hanbin said, coming to stand next to Y/N. She smiled, turning to look at him.

“If I didn’t know any better, I’d dare say that was a compliment.” General Hanbin cleared his throat, turning on his heel and returning to his horse. Y/N shook her head, moving to mount Cinnamon once again. Ju-ne joined her side, holding tightly onto Cocoa’s reins.

“He’s right. That was extremely clever,” he said.

“Thank you,” Y/N said smiling. Ju-ne bowed his head, turning to follow General Hanbin. Y/N followed as well, letting herself get lost in her own head.

The rest of the journey wasn’t too hard. They didn’t face more terrifying fog or misshapen monsters, but something nagged Y/N. She occasionally put her hand in her coat pocket, wrapping her fingers around the key. She watched Ju-ne carefully. He seemed so confident riding Cocoa, his back straight, his shoulders squared. He looked like a prince ready to fight for his kingdom.

“Do you think we really need this egg?” Y/N asked softly, making sure General Hanbin and Lieutenant Donghyuk didn’t hear her.

“What do you mean?” Ju-ne asked, turning to stare at her curiously.

“Think about it. We’ve bested the Mouse King’s soldiers, twice, survived facing our worst fears from that horrible fog, survived that bridge that almost claimed Lieutenant Donghyuk’s life, and just bested that horrible monster. All without the egg. With the Sugar Plum Fairy’s magic and your brave, determined spirit, you could defeat the Mouse King.” Ju-ne stared at Y/N, his expression almost unreadable.

“As kind as your words are, you’re wrong. The Mouse King is far too powerful. Besides, we need that egg to return you home to your original size. That is still what you want?”

“Of course.” Despite how fast she said it, Y/N’s answer didn’t sound convincing to herself. Something in her heart felt different when she gave Ju-ne her answer. She brushed it off, focusing on the road ahead of her. They were supposed to be arriving to the Mouse King’s castle soon, and she needed to be focused on finding the egg.

[ikonislife]

Shame 05. (Final)

-Junhoe x Reader

-Angst, Smut, CEO!Junhoe

-Somewhere in between his haughty smirk and sultry whisper, you let yourself lost in a path of no return with the man who doesn’t love anyone.

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Final

Never before had your wish for time traveling to be possible hammered harder in your heart as it did this very moment. The clock ticking just as it had since the beginning of time, yet you could physically feel each second elongated into minutes. You’ve tapped your foot, your pens, your folders, even your subordinate’s patient and barely 10 minutes had gone by. You wondered if Junhoe too, was also under this strange spell, was he too anxious for the meeting awaiting in the horizon. Curious how the giant ball of emotional mess your heart had been making a home of suddenly much less chaotic even though the words remained unspoken and issue still just as unresolved as it had been the past week. The little rendezvous under the sight assaulting neon of the women bathroom changed not the shame you felt for nights. It didn’t change either what happened in that elevators or the words he said. Yet there was a fire glowing, no denying the rush you felt thinking of seeing him again and it wasn’t all boiling lava of hatred. It was anticipation, of not only the truth but also a future, a bright future with Koo Junhoe. 

Would Irene call you foolish, idiotic, stupid even for the willing trust you gave him when nights before, terrors haunted your dreams, tormenting your soul. You’ve lost count of the times your phone was seconds away from reaching his, a text, a phone call… It was as easy as walking toward that fateful elevator and ring for his attention. Yet you’ve both made a promise to yourselves to do this right, to not let the cursed situation of being boss and subordinate getting in the way. So, once more you tucked away your phone, letting the heavy sigh of your heart falling into the ugly depth of reality. Junhoe must think of you silly if he realized how anxious, desperate even, for the meeting that was mere hours away that you could barely sat still. Or perhaps not, for a not a moment later, your phone nearly scaring your heart into submission as it rang loudly, echoing through the close confinement of your office.

“Hello, Y/n speaking.” You tried to hide the hopefulness in your voice, that secretly you wished it was Junhoe calling. 

“I don’t think I can wait a second longer.” Perhaps life had finally decided to smile upon your misfortunate self as his voice rough, whispering his desire so clearly through to you. “It’s stupid, I know. I promised you I’ll do this the right way but it’s excruciating… Sitting here, knowing you were just a few floors below and not being able to-“ His voice droned out, suddenly very aware of how quiet you’ve been. Though perhaps not for the reason that had just crossed his mind. You were simply mesmerized, moonstruck, and a bit fearful that he could read your mind. “I’m sorry, Y/n. I shouldn’t have call.” He chuckled bitterly and somehow, even through the muddling of the office phone, you felt the full extent. “I don’t know what I was thinking. I’m sorry.”

“Wait!” You were one degree away from screaming, letting the entire world know but the way his voice grew distant, you weren’t about to let him hang up when really, you wanted the same. “Wait, I-, me too.” You sighed, finally letting yourself admit out loud just how riled up he could get your heart to be. 

“Really?” There was something very childlike in the way he exclaimed in disbelief, as if it was completely preposterous that you’d feel the same. In reality, there was no denying and he knew just as well as your heart did that you won’t ever say no to him. “I mean, what should we do then?” You found it cute the way he had subtly cleared his throat before letting the solemnity of a boss returned to his voice. 

“I felt a bit sick after lunch… Thinking about taking the rest of the day off.” You mused, hoping he’d catch on, finally cashing in on those vacation hours you’ve so long been storing up. 

“Oh no, are you alright? Should I call for a doctor? Take you to the hospital?” Or not, who knew the genius behind Koo enterprise success would be so dense. Then again, to be this victorious, you doubted he knew what playing hooky meant.

“Junhoe!” You giggled and his heart stopped. Not skipping a beat, not wavering, it stopped. 

“Oh! I see. Well Ms. Y/l/n, you had a very important meeting later today so I think you should see a supervisor before leaving. It’d be terribly irresponsible if you don’t.” Was it so weird that ‘adorable’ was the first thing that popped into your mind when he finally caught your hint? “I think something this big in scale should go straight to the boss, don’t you think?”

“Ah. Yes, sir. I’ll be right up.” 

The second the receiver had clicked back into the safety of its home, you shot out of your chair, hands hastily gathering random files and paper… All nonsense really, all just an excuse to make your visit to the king all the more natural the eyes of nosy bystander. The door to your office swung with vigor, all the vigor your heart mustered up, drumming to some insane beats out of sheer excitement. In fact, your heart had been so excitingly hopeful that your sudden emerging from your office scared the soul out of the few trainees, unaware that despite your stern appearance, you were as harmless as a bunny. Waving them off, you continued your march toward the elevator hoping Irene wouldn’t be in one of her trance, dreamily starring at the elevator, wishing that it was time to go home. Not that you’d mind sharing with your dear friend borderline mother the event that had left you giddy like a school girl in a mile vicinity of her crush. Not at all, in fact you couldn’t wait to divulge this ball of secret, to tell her how excited you were… After all, it wasn’t as if she hadn’t seen your battered body and the hellish screams of your nightmares. In actuality, you’d much preferred having the full story, knowing the ending to your own story before sharing it with your world.  

Tip-toeing passed the thankfully busy head of HR, you abused the elevator button with all the might your index finger could dish out in the short seconds it took for the metal box to arrive. As the sinful golden door closed on the world busy with their head stuck in work, the breath you had been holding left your lips in a heavy sigh, heart finally began to settle. Shakily, your finger once more reaching toward the highest button amongst the endless rows, the one marked simply with a golden “K”. 

“Hello, this is Mr. Koo’s office.” 

“Hi, Seulgi. It’s Y/n. I have a meeting with Mr. Koo.” You replied, antsy and anxious, foot tapping uncontrollably praying Junhoe had forewarned her of your arrival.

“Oh, yes. He’s waiting.” With that, the elevator commanded itself to rise to the highest level where your prince charming awaited. Leaving you with exactly 45 seconds to once more staring into the reflective surface of the walls, pressing and flatting the stubbornness out of your baby hair only to give up, sighing in defeat because not even cement could help you. Strange how nervous you were, far worse than the horrendous amounts of pages you’ve written then had to immaculately presented in front of men worth billions combined. You waved at Seulgi whom was already sharing with you an empathetic look, knowing far too well the little scolding you had received and how before that, you’ve greeted her with redden eyes and smudged mascara despite the bright smile on your lips. You rushed a knock, to which the door swung open almost immediately, as if Junhoe had been pacing about right beside the grand threshold. 

“I honestly thought you changed your mind about coming…” He rushed out, greeting forgotten as he pulled you into a hug. The way his hand grasping firmly, fingers digging gently into your skin and how far he had nuzzled his face into the crook of your neck, it was the action of a desperate man. Body uncomfortably contorting to accommodate for your small stature against his, he sighed in relief as your many folders abandoned, gliding carelessly onto the ground as you too wound your arms around his body. “Thank you.” Never mind the shock that had played upon your heart when the man suddenly sprung onto you, all you could feel was the appreciation pouring from his vulnerable self. 

“Junhoe, I literally just lied to my boss that I was sick so I could come see you. Have you so little faith in me?” You sigh a small laugh in amusement as nearly a minute had pass and his hold was nowhere close to being loosen. 

“But I’m your boss.” He muttered against your shoulder, not yet ready to relinquish the warmth you’ve given him.

“Yes, well, then all the more reason why you can trust me.” Parting way finally, though with the smallest whine that you didn’t think the great Koo Junhoe was capable of producing, he let you have a few inches, just enough so you could gaze upon that handsome face. “I risked my career for you, in more ways than one… Shouldn’t that tell you my intention?”

“I’m just…” He sighed, forehead resting against yours as his eyes fluttering shut, still in disbelief that you were here, in his arms. “I’ve treated you in ways no one should ever and... I wouldn’t be a surprise if you change your mind and walk away. I said I would do this the right way to only once more making you meet me in secret…”

“Hey, I’m here, aren’t I? If I wasn’t okay, I would tell you.” His reminder of your grim past together pulled your elated soul back to the ground of reality fast for what the night hold remained a mystery. Whispering a soft agreement, his arms finally unwound, gesturing for you to take a seat on the same set of couches that had hosted countless meeting of the hearts. For a minute, neither of you spoke, simply letting the air settling comfortably over the small intimate meeting. You stared at him, studying the sharp jaws and defined features that you were almost too fearful to take in as a whole before now. You’d focus on his eyes one meeting, then part of his lips on another, always parts but never the whole and this very second, you were left breathless. His eyes too, fixated on you but rather than studying, he was relearning the curve of your body, your dainty features. Bit horrible on his part really as a boss, but countless time he’d find himself lost in your beauty as you speak about some boring project. So instead of letting his mind be bother with details he knew you’ve already carefully gone over times and times again, Junhoe let his mind made acquaintances with the little details of your personality, your quirks, and your habits. He prayed that after tonight, you’d give him a chance to continue his study of you. 

“So…” you sighed gently, letting your eyes wandered about the grand office out of sheer nervousness. It was only now that your attention had been drawn to the nearly empty desk, messy and out of place, quite unusual of Junhoe who had prided himself in being able to keep his composure no matter what shit show was going down. Your eyes slowly trailed down to the chaotic mess strewn about the floor, shattered glass, spilt amber liquid staining the otherwise pristine floor. “Junhoe, what happened?”

“What?” Your question caught him amidst his day dream, shocking the living soul out of his body. His eyes widen in confusion before it faltered to a bit of sorrow once he realized just what you were staring at. “Oh, that… It’s nothing, Y/n. Don’t worry ‘bout it.” 

“there’s glass all around, I don’t want you getting hurt!” By the time his ears had registered the sentence, you were already up from your seat, trekking carefully toward the mess. 

“My sweet girl, after all I’ve done… You still worry about me getting hurt.” Before you could reach for the fragments glittering in the golden sun pouring in from the massive windows spanning the length of his office, Junhoe already got your hands safely cradling in his before gentle kisses falling down. “I don’t want you to get hurt again, from a mess I made…” You remained still, letting the fading warmth of a fleeting afternoon shrouded your heart and soul in the last bit of calm before all hell breaks loose. 

“W-Where should we begin?” Unable to contain any longer the drumming of your heart, anticipating the story you’ve for nights dreamt of, you broke the silent that was only delaying the real matters of the hearts. 

“I guess there’s one question I have to ask before we can move on…One that I suspect will clear up a lot for us.” There was a bit of bitterness behind his vague request, as if it was taking his entire being to bite back the poisonous thought that had fueled all the unreasonable things he had done. You nodded, entirely unsure of what was about to fall from his lips but by the way Junhoe’s lips had pressed into a thin line, brows furrowed in anger? In frustration? You didn’t know but whatever he was about to ask you, it couldn’t be anything good. “What is the nature of your relationship with Johnny?” He rushed through the questions, hating every second of it. “Outside of work, I meant.” 

“Nothing… We’ve gotten close through the few times you sent me to his branch for projects… but not much outside of work. Rarely even see each other outside of work.” Admittedly, confusion wasn’t the first emotion to cross your mind as fear overwhelmingly drowned your soul in its grasp. In all the months spent together, all the time he had lost his temper over mistakes, never before had you been more afraid for someone than you were this very second for poor Johnny. The way his name tumbled from Junhoe’s lips, it was as if the man before you completely vanished leaving behind nothing but the pure bitterness of anger in the empty shell of a person. His voice cold, eyes devoid of any spark, any warmth that would let you know he was the same person who had whined into your ears because you merely moved two inches away. 

“And that’s the whole truth?” He spoke up once more in the same demeanor, though you knew the emotion boiling his blood was not meant for you at all, it raised all the hair on your body and struck you with all the fear the world got to give.

“Yes, Junhoe. What other kind of truth is there… Obviously you have something specific in mind that you want me to admit to. And as much as I’d like to play along, I really don’t know. I’d rather you just be upfront with me. After all, isn’t that the point of this meeting?” Your voice stern but your tone was anything but as your heart drummed at light speed in the way Junhoe was tearing your body apart with his gaze. Your features stoned under the scrutinizing gaze, as if daring him to find fault in the words you had spoken.

“I saw you both that night, leaving together…”

That was all you needed to hear for every single piece of this giant, confusing puzzle that was the past few weeks to all fall into place. The derision in the elevator, the mixed signals, the mess laying still on the floor just a few feet away, everything made sense. How you’ve never connected his action to what happened that night between you and Johnny, was beyond idiotic, beyond careless. 

“Junhoe, I- I didn’t know” No doubt that panic was wrecking your body apart, yet deep down your heart heaved a sigh of relief for it hadn’t so grossly misjudge Junhoe, even if the words he had chosen, that was something you’ve yet to forgiven him for. Yet just knowing it was stemmed from something as painful as heartache, to know he wasn’t so unreasonable, so despicable was like the weight of the world lifted from your heart. “It’s not what you think, I swear.” 

“I just need to know… That I wasn’t so crazy to think we really did have something… even though we knew each other a mere few months.” His heart broke watching your features contorting, twisting so aguishly, desperately conveying the words he hoped could heal his heart. “You’re not that kind of woman, I know it. You won’t do something so horrendous even if I’m nothing but a jerk… would you?”

“No, I swear. It’s a misunderstanding.” You reached for him, hands trembling as they inched toward his and before you could give out under your failing nerve, Junhoe already wrapping his large one around yours. “Please let me explain.” With a gentle nod and the way his hands squeezing yours so tightly, you felt a surge of courage electrifying your heart. Junhoe had settled back into his seat, bated breaths anticipating your version of that night that hopefully would ease his heart out of the perdition it had been in… Even if it meant he was even more so a villain than he had already been to you. 

The memory of that night wasn’t one you needed much to relive for it had imprinted itself into every grain, every fiber of your being. It was magical, it was sinful, it was magnificent, and it was the last night of peace you had before the ship carrying your heart begun to sink. Your body could recall still the aching slowly settling between your legs and how you wished for nothing more than to abandon the pair of heels so carefully chosen to entice a certain man. As you stood there, in the far back corner pretending as though you hadn’t just crawled out of his office, looking far worse than when anyone had seen you last, your attention entirely captivated by the speech… And the man, of course. 

You were lost, intoxicated by that alluring voice, playing over and over again the things he had whispered, the things he had demanded of you just moments ago in your mind despite the boring formal nonsense he was spewing. Somewhere between thanking the workers and praising how well the food were, which was honestly a big fat lies for all either of you had tasted the entire night were each other, he locked eyes with you. It was subtle, and if you were just anyone else amongst this crowd drunk in the charms of the big boss, you would’ve missed the apparition of the tiniest smirk blooming behind that charming smile. But you weren’t just anyone, not anymore. So, you raised the champagne flute with the slightest nod of your head in return. 

As the night ticked on and the count of empty flutes grew dangerously close to double digits, your weary body wished for nothing more but to be wrap in a bundle under the safety of your blanket, especially now that you had realized the chance of getting close to him was slimmer than none. Irene had snuck away long ago, far more interested in her own adventure than the forced pleasantry of a company party. It was as good of a time as any for you to bid adieu to a wonderful night. You watched on for a moment, observing Junhoe getting lost amidst the world of the powerful and riches you don’t dare dream of ever being part of. That little hope that he’d see you off seemed more of just wishful thinking now as more men in expensive suits and women whom dresses sparkled brighter than your future joined in the conversation. How his smile still as bright as ever and his energy remained just as it was when he first stepped into the party, even after the eventful night you shared, you didn’t know. What you did know was mayhap it was best to leave him be, taking a quiet exit and leave the details of what was promised for another day. Though the silent exit you hoped for wasn’t as inconspicuous as you had wanted as the calling of your name echoed through the empty hallway leading to the parking garage. 

“Johnny! Are you leaving too?” You greeted the man jogging your way, sharp suit and amazing styled hair leaving you unashamedly ogling. And though possessing look and stature that left many wondering why he was stuck in an office rather than on a runway, Johnny was pale in comparison to Junhoe for the boss was in a league on his own. 

“Yea, I don’t know how much more I could take of shop talk. You’d think tonight would be the one night I can escape work while being at work but…” He sighed heavily, the few stray hairs draping over his forehead conveyed perfectly the frustration taut on the poor man’s forehead. “What can you do right?”

“Yea, well, at least you’re not amidst the gossips.” You whined, inciting a bit of a chuckle from the man known not for his laugh but sharp gazes and cold demeanor. Though you had always found that tidbid was a bit untrue. Sure, the intensity behind those beautiful eyes was enough to leave the men in fear and the women giggling themselves stupid, his smile was truly infectious. He was much gentler, much much more outspoken than Junhoe. 

“Hadn’t thought of that.” There was no denying Johnny’s incredibly attractive and the chemistry between you two, well if the 100% successful rate of your collaborations were of any evident, you’d say it was off the chart. Yet there was something lacking, the something that left you so utterly breathless when Junhoe even just simply as looked your way. Something in the way he speaks, the way he moves that left you weak, drawn to the man like moth to flame. It felt amazing the way your heart seemingly willingly submitted to Junhoe’s. Not to mention, even as you walked along side another man, listening to him, smiling up at him, your mind was consumed with the thought of Koo Junhoe, and Koo Junhoe alone. You hadn’t realized too the way Johnny’s eyes were lingering on your smile, the twinkles in them, as you both continued to walk into the night. 

“You seemed cold.” And before you could even protest, he already got the large jacket wrapped around your shoulders, hands pulling close the lapels to shield your bare skin from the frigid wind of the night. For a second, neither of you said anything and perhaps for very different reason for the action to follow was far more shocking than the escapade Junhoe had taken you on. You hadn’t got a chance to process your thought when you felt it, it was so delicate and light, far different from the abuse Junhoe had left upon your lips. Johnny got one hand on the small of your back and the other gently wrapping around the length of your jaw as he let his trembling lips stilled against your forehead, no doubt nerve giving out before he could place the dainty kiss upon your lips. Your mind scrambled for a reaction, but it found none, leaving your body to fare for itself. Yet maybe doing nothing was the best course of action for not a second later, he backed away, fear engulfing his entire being as endless apologies fell from his lips. 

“I’m so sorry, Y/n. I shouldn’t have done that.” You could feel the panic slowly eating the man alive even though there wasn’t even a tiniest sign that you were mad at him. And that was the truth, you weren’t angry, not even close to for the emotion you had felt that very second was guilt. “This wasn’t how I wanted to do this but I, I’m so sorry. You looked so beautiful and for a second I was just lost in my thought and, and I-“

“I- It’s okay. I should be the one to apologize… I- I like you, I really do. But not in the way you might want me to, not in the way I feel about someone else.” You weren’t sure if a hug was the right thing to do but there was nothing else, no other solution your brain could conjure up to calm the man before you. The jacket he had so tenderly wrapped around your body shed, returning to its rightful owner as you pulled him into a comforting hug. “I’m sorry, Johnny. I can’t return your feeling. I’m really sorry.”

You couldn’t remember much else after Johnny had sent you off in a taxi, waving goodbye still with that small frown on his lips. You prayed that the night will be kind for him, and that dreamland too will offer some solace as you sped into the night. 

As Junhoe listened to your word, the guilt in his heart only festered, spreading further as his mind rounded the last darken corner of this story between you and him, flipping on the light of clarity. His body sunk further into the cushion of the couch that could barely support the weight of his heart, soft cusses falling gently from his lips. The world crumbling beneath his feet as each and every single word he had so angrily brandished in your face replayed in his mind, jeering, mocking. He stared at your sorrowful gaze and the bitter smile having to once more brought back the unpleasantness of unrequited love and thought of your cowering form and shivering shoulders. He knew that day as he observed your defeated form that you were crying, but he couldn’t bring himself to look at your reflection in the spotless surface of the elevator mirror. It would’ve broke him, made him pull you right into his chest and that wasn’t what he had wanted... He knew that his words had broken your heart but the burn of watching you with someone else, his pride, the intensity of it all were far too strong, so strong that even the feelings he had for you shuddered in fear. He very much regretted it now, and he knew it was far too late to speak of regrets. He had been immature, cruel in every way and Junhoe wished all the money he possessed could be traded in for one more chance to do right by you. But he knew too that time travel was only something fictitious, and something he would never do to you if it was somehow possible. And so, the only thing to do was to accept his wrongs, to be the man he hoped one day you could learn to love again. 

“You don’t have to believe me but that’s the truth. If you need, poor Johnny had been apologizing for ages even though all I felt was guilt.” As you reached for your phone, to show the proof that could once and for all exonerated your heart of all that it was accused of, Junhoe shook his head in defeat.

“I believe you, Y/n, it’s alright.” 

His head hung low in disappointment, in regret, and in shame. So fearful of being the last name he bear, of the person the world expected of him, Junhoe became blind to his own feelings. For Junhoe, being himself was something easier said than done for every action he had taken, it was done with meticulous planning. He worried of the opinions that shouldn’t matter but what else could he do, being in the position he was in, possessing the kind of power he had. The few times the smallest spark had glowed in his worn-out heart, Junhoe had always approached it with his eyes on the exit door, never fully given anyone his entire self. Now that he had a taste of what love could be like if he just let himself dive in without restraint, to give into the frivolousness of the primal part that he had long been so frightened of, to not be CEO Koo but to be just Junhoe, well, he couldn’t get enough. He didn’t know how you had managed to take down the wall he had so carefully crafted to protect himself, and for once in his life, he couldn’t care less. Caution to the wind as he let you in. He wanted you, wanted not just your body but your heart and soul. He saw a future with you that night, as messed up as it sounded. He saw a beautiful life laid out neatly for him as he ravaged your body to smithereens, and Junhoe was wholeheartedly ready for it. Needless to say, when he had saw you, felt the betrayal permeating through the now crumbled facade that had so long hidden him from the realness of heartache, Junhoe was livid. He had been so numb to his own feeling that just the tiniest bit of the paradise he had tasted opened a floodgate of emotions so great, it was beyond his control. He knew it was irrational to say the words he had said, horrid the things he had said. But the white rage burning in his chest, the bitterness of betrayal in his mouth, and most of all, the regret that he had once more let someone in only to be hurt... He never stood a chance against being consumed by hate. He gave in, into the hate and into the contempt, and blamed you.  

“There’s no word, nothing I could ever do that would be enough to make up for what I’ve done to you. I know my apology means nothing to you and it doesn’t come close to heal the damage I’ve done but… I’m so sorry. I’m so fucking sorry, Y/n.” Hearing your words now, witnessing the smile on your lips fading into the abyss of pain he had given you... His sweet, innocent girl, Junhoe couldn’t fathom a day where you’d love him again.

The hands that had been giving you warmth, supporting you through the retelling of that fateful night retrieved with haste as if any second longer, they would’ve poison you. Junhoe didn’t deserve your smile, nor did he deserve your touch. And it went without saying, your love wasn’t something he should possess for what he had done… He couldn’t love himself for. 

“I- I understand your anger, Junhoe… I do. You must’ve felt like a fool watching me with someone else when just moments ago promising, begging to be yours.” Bittersweet, if there ever was a single perfect defining moment for the word bittersweet, this was it. You knew his feeling, with all his heart and through all his actions, you knew. Yet you owed yourself to deal with the shame you’ve felt in your own way, to heal properly even though all you wanted was Junhoe. “But there are hundreds of ways you could’ve ask me, confront me, hell, yell at me. But what you did… I, I’ve never felt so humiliated, so betrayed before in my life.” Once more you were a sobbing mess, the feeling of descending from the height of heaven to the depth of hell just as fresh as the first moment and this time Junhoe was there for all of it. Though there wasn’t an ounce of courage in his heart to give into the urge of pulling you into his arms, he was still there, with that sorrowful gaze and concern plaguing his frown. “I really believed it all, your words, the sweet promises, I took it and held it close to my heart. The thought of going on a date with you, of seeing the you outside of this cold harsh place… To finally learn more about you, not Mr. Koo, not CEO Koo, just you! you can’t imagine how happy that made me. You took all the joy, all the hope of a girl wanting, needing love and burn it all to ash.”

“I know… I know…” The blood rushing through his heart knowing he had a chance with you, a real fighting chance toward something permanent plummeted him into an endless pit. A million things running through his minds, desperation was settling fast for Junhoe could feel you slipping right out of his hand with each second, each tear rolling down your cheeks. Would you hate him if this very second, he was to kiss away all your tears, kiss away that pout so heavy on your lips. 

“You called me a mistake, Junhoe. I was nothing more than your drunken, careless mistake.” If there ever was a measurement of how much words could hurt, Junhoe was entirely certain he had just reached its limit watching your soul withering right in front of his eyes.  

“Fuck, if you had told me that night that it was just sex and nothing more, I would’ve been perfectly content to just have one night with you and be on my way. I wouldn’t ask for anything else of you if that really all you ever wanted, but you promised me. You promised me, Junhoe.” The desperation in your voice, the frustration made him felt as if you were on the edge of a cliff of no return and he was the person who had force you there.  

“It took all of me to finally call you by your name, to ask about the future I thought I had a chance at. Yet I was left with nothing but shame and disgrace.” There was no controlling the tear washing away the bashful blush he had left on your cheeks from his hug and the shivers wrecking your body apart thinking of that morning, of the contempt tossed at you like a cold glass of harsh reality. Even now, even as you watch through your blurring, teary eyes as Junhoe slowly broke down, the sorrow eating his soul alive hearing your feelings, reservation remained in your heart. How could you not have doubt after you had watched him tear you down without even blinking an eye… As easily as taking in a breath. What worth were you really, against the person that was Koo Junhoe, against the monument that was his last name. 

“I swear to you, Y/n, I never meant for things to turn out this way.” He begged but, in his heart, he knew he didn’t deserve to beg. You trusted him, trusted his heart and trusted when he said you were special and what did he do? He stepped on your heart, stepped on your trust, and threw away all the love you had given him as if it was trash.

“What those girls said today…  It didn’t hurt because they had called me a slut or that I was just another notch in someone’s belt. I’m a grown woman, I can live my life however I want to, and if they want to call me name, ridicule me because they can’t understand that sex is natural, that’s on them.” The words you wished you could’ve thrown it back in their face, to defend your right as a person, heavy as they fall from your lips. You were comfortable in your own skin, comfortable with every decision you’ve made and if the world refused to understand then to hell with them all. The pain you felt sitting through their ugly gossips, it was something else entirely.  “It hurt because it wasn’t supposed to be just sex, it wasn’t supposed to end with another notch on your belt. It hurt, excruciating, because I truly thought you believed in it too… That in your eyes, I was just another fix. That all the sweet things you’ve said were nothing but lies. That at the end of the day, I’ll just be another faceless… used, figure in your path.” 

“No, Y/n. That’s not true.” Junhoe was at the edge of his seat, never before had so he desperately need for the god of persuasion to be on his side and never before had he felt so defeated. “I don’t care who said what about me. At the end of the day it’s just fleeting word in the breeze of time, it’ll go away eventually. But I need, want you to know that never in my mind were you just another face in the crowd. You’re so much more, my everything. I know my words… There’s no excuse and I’ll go to hell for it. I spoke out of anger, out of heartache that once more, I got burn by the woman I treasure with all my heart.” Despite the well-known last name and the face known… loved by millions, his past was something a mystery befitting of the enigma that was Junhoe. Not once were the details of whom he had been with was revealed yet you could see so clearly the damage that was done through his words, his actions. That however, excuse not the carnage he had done on your heart.

“I know where I stand on the grand scale that is the life of Koo Junhoe… You know me barely as a name of the paycheck you sign, there’s absolutely no reason you should give me your trust. Yet don’t I deserve at least benefit of the doubt?” You began, and he felt every bit of his inside twisting up in pain.

“Please don’t say that… I value you more than any woman, anyone that had come into my sad life.” The brilliant glint behind those eyes dimming out into something so dismal at the realization that he might’ve ruined whatever fleeting thread bounding your lives together… That you might never look at him the same, ever again… Those lingering loving gaze in between the heat of lust, he might never be able to see again. 

“I don’t know who had burn you in the past… But it wasn’t me.” You understood his pain, you really did, but if this relationship ever hope to be something in the vast lifestream of two young people trying to find love, it was something that needed to be said.  “If you don’t heal the wounds of the past, you’ll bleed onto the those who’ve never hurt you… so I hope you understand too that I’ll need time, to process and to heal.” 

“I understand…” The words barely audible as Junhoe let himself immersed in the weight of reality. “I can wait…” Hope flashed so vibrantly as he spoke the words, you could feel your heart smiling along with the small grin he offered up… But you weren’t sure yourself that was what you wanted, for him to wait. 

“Junhoe… I can’t ask you to wait, especially not when I don’t even know myself how long, or if I ever will.” There was no easy way, you knew for certain, so you let out your thought the only way either of you deserve – straightforward, even if it only hurt further. 

“Please, Y/n. Let me… If somehow-“ The words choked in his chest, heart far too weary to support the unfathomable thought of you never, ever again looking his way. “If by the end of it all, I’m not what you want then I will respect your decision. I won’t force my way into your life, I promise you.”

There was no denying the surging emotions enveloping your heart in a stormy sea of conflicts. You fell for him, far harder than you had for any man before, and there was an inexplicable nagging in the back of your mind that by week end, you’d be back in his arms. But that wasn’t a promise for you to make, at least not right this second. And it was never your desire for Junhoe to miss out on life, to feel as if he owed you his patient and his time even as horrible as the words he had said. You can feel the sincerity in his apology and his promise that there was never any ill will, with all your heart, you appreciated his truthfulness. At the end of the day, it truly was simply a misunderstanding. And the thought of him with someone else, the same way he had seen you with Johnny, well that was a thought that had your heart bleeding and soul raging. It was a thought that had begun to badger at the deepest corner of your heart to dive back in, to pick things up as if the horrid past hadn’t happened at all. Reluctantly, you nodded, allowing yourself one last hug before your broken heart and battered soul could be on their way toward recovery. 

For a long while, neither of you said much save for the few sniffles still lingering of emotions and hearts laid bare. Junhoe took his time, though he no longer let is hand grazing along your soft skin out of respect, he let his heart get lost in the way your cheeks redden, eyes glossy from tear yet still shining so brightly. He sighed mournfully, praying that this parting of the hearts will lead to a happy ending, no matter how long it might take. And although he was hopeful, he was ready too, to deal with the scenario he didn’t want to think of. As his eyes strayed from your seemingly peaceful form toward the mess he had made beside his desk, the issue of your resignation that was forgotten once more rising, discomfort steeling in his chest. 

“Y/n, your resignation… If you wish, I will sign it. Even if that goes against every single wish of mine.” He spoke carefully, treading the territory of unpleasantness, of not being able to see you every day. “Every word I had said stand true. If this place lose you, if I lose you...”

“I-, admittedly, when I had arrived this morning… I wanted nothing more than to leave this place that had caused so much pain. But now, I’m not so sure anymore.” 

“For now, I will keep it safe. When you reach your decision, I will do as you wish.” A bit of hope rising in his chest knowing that no longer were he so despicable in your eyes that leaving was the only thing you could do. Yet he made peace too with that dreadful worst-case scenario… You deserved at least that much from him. 

“Thank you. You’re a great guy, Junhoe. Despite everything that had happened between us and all that will, you’ll always have a place in my heart.”

“There’s no word that can express my feeling for you. And I think you’re sick of me saying it by now, but I really am sorry, for everything I’ve done. I will never stop making it up to you, for as long as you’ll let me.” Although the thick air of aching hearts barely lifting, there was a sense of elation shared between you both. It felt as though it was the good old day of silent flirting, of the uncertain feelings once more. “Is there any chance at all you’d let me finish what I started that night. I never got a chance to drop you off.” The lightness in his word signaled a new beginning for you both, even if you’ve got a long way to heal, it was something delightful. It was quite adorable the way Junhoe smiling so sheepishly, gaze averting out of the sheer chance that you’d laugh at him. 

“I suppose I’ll be needing a ride home seeing how I left so early. Unless you were planning on letting the head of HR going home early also?” You teased and watched his eyes lit up at the realization of what you had just said.

“I think Irene got quite the workload today. I’m sure she’ll be all grumpy at meeting tomorrow from how many files I gave her. Luckily, I do know someone that might be able to fill in the spot of the driver.” You forgot how effortless it was to be with Junhoe, far easier than it was with any man that came before despite the constraint of boss and worker looming over your relationships. 

“Hmm, and how much would Koo-ber cost me? I’m nothing but a mere office worker, I can’t afford top of the line luxury.”

“I think you’ve accumulated enough points to have free ride for the rest of your life.” His laugh crisp against the softening atmosphere of budding friendship, the brightest you’ve seen in ages.

Before the you both enter into the night, you insisted upon cleaning up the mess that you certainly had everything to do with despite Junhoe vehemently denying. Soft words spoken and stories of the past slowly emerged as you both huddle over the arrays of broken objects cluttering the floor. Although no closer to finding out about the scars of past love, you found out his love for martial art and boxing, both no doubt contributed to the amazingly toned body you had lusted over. He had learned of Irene’s mama bear persona that honestly left him sweating knowing that she too was aware of the nightmare, even if it was only surface knowledge. 

With one last parting hug, Junhoe sent you off, promising this time, he’ll be there till the end. Once more, the whirling of the golden elevator sending you off toward future unknown. This time, a sense of hope and elation wrapped you into a tight embrace. 

Just as he had promised, not long after you had rounded the corner toward the VIP parking, a smile bloomed on your lips at the sight of him jogging his way toward you. A smile too was on his lips. Not a minute later, under the roaring of his sleek black sport car (no doubt cost more than the price of your life), you both sped into the world still quietly at work. The thought of dinner running through his mind yet Junhoe dare not yet to speak of it. It was the first day of being friend, of leaving the past to move toward a better future. There was no need to rush so he let that thought go with a soft smile. The usual half hour ride felt a mere 2 seconds when small talk filled the time, carefree laughter mingled as you watch the road slowly filled with tired workers, happy that another tedious work day was over. 

There was no helping the beating of his heart as Junhoe stole a glance of you every now and then, to think that one day, the usual loneliness of an empty passenger seat would be dispelled by your warmth. It was a view he could get used to, just as well as the view of your lovely smile beaming so brightly as the retold of how utterly scared shitless the intern had been when you stormed off suddenly on the way to meet him. Even the soft, quiet grunt every single time your phone would buzz angrily from another text from Irene was endearing. After all, you had let her know that you were going ahead only for your phone to ding violently hundred times in a row. You tried to laugh it off, a bit rosy on the cheeks but he only found it cute. Even now as he watched you waving vigorously, standing at the entrance of your apartment, Junhoe felt his heart racing even if the future was still very much unknown, hoping that as the sun set on this beautifully eventful day that the worst was finally over and done with. You too prayed for a better future as you watch from the safety inside the gate of your apartment, knowing in just short hour time, the wrath of Irene will rain down upon your poor soul. No matter, to finally see him drive off, to have the happy goodbye you should’ve gotten that night was the closure you didn’t know you needed. Once and for all, you both could close the book on the night that was both sinfully amazing, wonderfully loving, but also regretfully painful. Finally, you can move on. 

If the thunderous footfall and loud bang of the door were of any indication, your life was about to end in the three seconds it’d take Irene to barge into your room. Right on cue, nostrils flaring, and hair looked about if she had just trekked through a category 5 storm without an umbrella, Irene appeared at the threshold of your room looking as if someone had just murdered her cat. 

“Y/L/N Y/N, tell me right how what the hell did you just do?”

“Did I just do what?” Hadn’t bothered looking up once since she tossed her heels unto your poor floor, reckless abandoned, you deadpanned with a gaze that irked Irene all the wrong ways. How could you be so nonchalant, aloof, laying there in your stupid panda PJ that she had bought, scrolling through your phone as if she hadn’t seen you half dead just this morning.

“What. The. Hell?!” With each syllable leaving her lips, a hard slap landed upon your butt with all the vigor a twenty something head of HR could dose out on an empty stomach. “You left with him, didn’t you?! Y/n!!!!!” She tugged and she pulled but you wouldn’t budge, laying still on your stomach though no longer letting your eyes running over the small conversation with Junhoe on your phone. 

“What, so what if I did?” Your flat delivery clearly didn’t amuse your best friend as hundred painful slaps rained down upon your back along with an ear-piercing screech of frustration. “Alright, stop! We talked things out okay?”

“What the hell even happened in the first place?”

With a heavy sigh, once more you let yourself soaring amongst the past, retelling the events of that fateful nights just as you had once before but this time, in a much different lights than that of your haunting nightmare. You told her of the tender moments to follow the sinful moans, of the misunderstanding, and of his anger. Your story continued well into dinner as you both huddling over the sizzling of meat, delectable scent and thick smoke couldn’t dim out the words. 

“So he thought you were two timing him and Johnny…” As the story closed out with your prince driving off into the sunset, Irene mulling over each details, pouring yet another much needed glass of soju to help her digest the insane week you had. “So instead of just confronting you like a normal human being, he what? Insulted you instead?” 

“Yea… that’s the gist of it.” 

“And you’re still talking to him, why?” The question leaving her lips perfectly clear, yet it had you lost in the bends and curves of your mind, of everything that had happened and everything you hoped will happened. Why, why were you so drawn to a man that had shown you nothing beyond the empty promises and hurt in the few short hours you got to know what it was like to be loved by Koo Junhoe. You knew nothing about him, absolutely nothing to say that by tomorrow’s morn he won’t be the same jerk that had left you in tear, the one that had disregarded your very existent. But for reason beyond your knowledge, you trusted him. Your heart glowed when he smiled your way, willing to lay its life to make him happy. You sat there in silent, staring at your dear best friend as the million thoughts vibrated through your mind. 

“Y/n? Did I lose you?” Irene repeated once more but you were nowhere and everywhere all at once, dazed eyes staring back at her, no, right through her. 

The flirtatious gaze, the sweet smile he had shared with you. For so long you’ve always thought that was just the kind of man he was, the kind of man befitting of the whispers in the far corners of the company. Then his smile warmed, and his tone softened. You noted the lingering touches, the accidental one that could very well be purposefully. You had always told yourself it was just a delusion of a girl crushing on her charming boss. Yet somewhere along the way, you had unknowingly let yourself given into that tiny spark that had grown into an uncontrollable flame of desire. You began flirting back, lustful smile and drawn out sweet words became natural as the days passed. And before you could even realize, it was an explosion of emotion that you didn’t, couldn’t tell since when the fuse was lit. All the fleeting praises, even the harsh demand, even the broken promises, all the memories Junhoe had given you rushed back in a split second. Winded, breathless, the rush of emotion vacated all the air from your lungs.

“Y/n!” Irene shook you by the shoulders, a loud grunt of your name had left her lips, scaring even the table beside your own. “You good?”

“I, uhm, think so?” You vague words eased her heart not as she continued to fuss over your dazed self. 

It was only now, after all the heartache, the heart to heart talk, and being able to lay it all out in front of someone with a clear perspective that you finally understood, that this overwhelming emotion finally hit you. It sunk in just how hard you had fell for that charming smile and alluring voice. Not just that but the sweet personality, the caring side you’ve so sparingly seen, but what you had was enough to keep you coming back. Given everything that your heart had gone through, not once did it get the chance to process the emotion without the pain. You were absolutely sure, without a doubt infatuated with the man that seemingly know naught about love. 

“Don’t tell me…” There were far too many reasons to count as to why Irene was your best friend. But perhaps the biggest one of all was her ability to always know what was on your mind. No word needed but Irene always know what to say, what emotions was running through your heart and this very second, as you sat there with that dumbfounded look plastered on your shock-stricken features, it too hit her. “Don’t tell me. Y/n, you barely know the guy! How could you love someone you barely know, let alone hurt you?” 

“I- I’m not saying that any of it make sense, okay? I barely got the whole story myself and I’m figuring things out as I go.” You said words you knew would appease the angry mother bear, yet within your heart, there was no second guessing just how smitten you were with Koo Junhoe. 

“As much as I hate this, and him. I don’t give a shit if he can fire me.” 

“Irene!” The piece of meat that had tasted like heaven, frozen in in your throat, harsh cough falling from your lips as you tugged at your unfazed best friend. 

“What, it’s true. I don’t give two shit about what he thinks or has to say. But I know you, and I care about you, and you’re the most stubborn bitch I’ve ever met. So, I know there’s no changing your bullheaded mind about this, therefore I won’t stop you from loving him. Hell, what do I even know about love anyways to stop you. But do know that I think very little of what he did.  Regardless of who did what to him in the past, he’s a grown man, he should know better than to berate someone simply because he got a little hurt. Don’t just run back into his arms just because you think you love him. That doesn’t change anything he did.”

“I won’t… I owe myself that much.” She was right, and as much as you want for this to be a rom-com with a tearful reunion and a grand happy ending… The tear you cried, the shame you felt, they were still like a bruise darken on your heart. Love or not, it’d just be another thing you’d have to deal with in the days to come. 

As the night slowed to a halt, flashing neon and boisterous laughter of friends faded away for another peaceful sleep, you too rest your mind and heart. Solace blanketed over your small apartment, as you waved Irene goodnight. The wounds left by the past had yet to heal but no longer did it ached deep within your bones; an itch finally satisfied. As you pulled over your body the thick blanket that hadn’t kept you safe from the restless nights of the past few weeks, you wondered if the night too had been kinder for Junhoe. You knew this wasn’t the outcome he had hoped for, despite the weight of misunderstanding no longer sinking your soul to the depth of hell, you knew that full well. But it was a start, and for now, you hoped it’d be enough.

You knew life from there on out would be far less taxing and heartbreaking, but the easiness of how it carried on as if the weeks of turmoil and heartache had simply vanished from existent still didn’t fail to surprise you. By the 2nd week passing, it had become effortless to let go of the harsh words and resentment harbored for the man your heart longed for. Sure, part of you were still reeling from the humility and suffering, but you found yourself light. The dumb moonstruck smile you had always given him were once more back on your lips every time he’d look your way. He too, sporting a brilliant smile as often as he could, much to the shock and poor hearts of the entire work force. The gossip squad too, seemed to have moved on from the mystery women that had left their boss so flustered that one fateful night. Instead, they’re not tirelessly debating his sudden change in demeanor. Not that they had much to complain about honestly, giddy and giggling themselves stupid every time he swung by for an office visit with a smile on his lips. 

True to his words, Junhoe returned back to those days when you could only refer to him as Mr. Koo. Though you suspected it wasn’t without difficulties for the way his eyes would linger on you just a tad longer, smile just a bit brighter, and of course, the softness in his voice whenever your name tumbled from his lips. You suspected too that it was something neither you nor him had much control over given your history. And in many ways, you were glad for the little moments in an otherwise mundane day to let you know that his feeling for you hadn’t dull, even as the sun risen and set over the 3rd week of loneliness. 

Though your work life was as normal as it had always been, in the slow moments of days, moments when work eluded your weary mind and a break was much needed, your life was anything but. Sweet messages and even on rare occasion when Junhoe would be in a particularly good mood, a selfie would grace you with its present. The first time he had sent one over, it was a rather strenuous day when meeting hadn’t gone right, and the world was seemingly out to get you. It was rather late in the night; the LED light of your office was still very much buzzing, and the long report was nowhere near ending. You hadn’t expected any call, no texts, not even a social media alert when his name flashed across your screen, stealing all the attention you’ve got to give that very moment. Your heart already drumming thousand beats a second, even if the disappointment that he was probably wishing you a goodnight already souring in your chest. Nothing, and you meant it, absolutely nothing could’ve prepared you for the picture that popped up on your screen as you let out a less than human-liked screech. The suit you had seen so impeccable over his body just hours ago in meeting gone. In its place a soft knitted sweater with neckline far more tempting than the devil himself. His hair had been wet, few locks matted to the front of his forehead, so different from the neat style he wore daily in the office, so casual. It left you wondered of the life Koo Junhoe carried beyond the walls of this massive company, of the him in mundane daily life. But the thing that had your heart wanting to give up on life, and soul vanishing into the depth of the universe was that beautiful smile bright on his lips. You couldn’t stop staring, not even when the report you had been waiting for hours dinged loudly on your laptop, far too mesmerized by the suddenness, the boldness, and him. The text had been so simple, “stay strong”, but it meant the world to you. He had been aware of the issues that had kept you still chained to your desk even when the moon had long reigned the sky. And as much as he had wanted to stay, eyes lingering on your worn-out form when he had left the office just an hour ago, a promise is a promise. But that didn’t mean he couldn’t give you a bit of encouragement, a bit of motivation to get you through the rough night. And there was nothing in the rulebook to stop him from sending you delivery dinner either. 

Though it wasn’t often you were spoiled with a picture of the man, phone calls were fortunately far less elusive. Sometimes even deep into the hours of the night, under the soft moonlight, you’d both enjoy the shared silent and rhythmic breaths over the phone, not a word said yet you were both content. Eventually, you had learned that it was rather easy to draw out a soft giggle from the man despite his stone-cold appearance. You’ve lost count of the time the entire board of supervisors had gone under mass hysteria and collective meltdown as Junhoe let out a soft giggle. You’d done it on purpose, sending him a cute message or even a joke you had been saving for a rainy day while waiting for the meeting to officially start. Oh the look and the strange stare they shared with one another. It was utterly comical to you really because you’ve gotten used to his strange humour and how beautiful his laughter was, yet to the company, he had been the same cold, standoffish man of the past. Though you surmised that would soon change for the façade he had built for himself was slowly melting away as he opened up more and more each day to the rest of the company.

Despite finally letting his true self shined through at work, Junhoe’s effort in keeping it professional around you didn’t go unnoticed. He had hid his heart’s desires so incredibly well that even the secret privy, eagle eyes head of HR herself couldn’t spot anything out of the ordinary.More than once she had stormed your office, your room, and even once when you had been so leisurely enjoying a nice warm bath to question the sincerity behind the big boss man.

“Are you sure he’s still into you?” Slamming the lid of your toilet with all the energy her tiny body could mustered up, Irene thrown herself upon the ceramic throne with a huff, ignoring completely the shock spreading through your features. She got that typical Irene stare that burn you with all the inquisitiveness she possessed. 

“What the hell is wrong with you? You couldn’t wait till I’m done to ask that?” You splashed a bit of bubbly water her way, earning an unusually hard slap upon your shoulder. 

“Oh, or are you guys banging again? Is that why he’d been so happy lately?”

“Irene!” You scolded but there was no stopping the train of curiosity. “What’s with you? First you were disapproving of him, now suddenly he’s not lovey dovey enough?”

“What? I just want to know that you were in good hands. I’ll castrate him if he hurts you again.” The coldness in her eyes, that devilish smirk, suddenly you were curious if your dear best friend had a dark past that she had been hiding from you. 

“I will keep that in mind… Geez. And anyways, have you not noticed how he had been “visiting the departments for routine checkup” more often now?” With your fingers air quoting vigorously, the lightbulb in your best friend’s mind finally went off. She slapped her thigh, hard, only to wince silently, wondering how you had been taking her hand all these years without needing to go to the ER.

“Oh, is that why? I thought it was because he made me hired like billions of new workers recently… Sly, I like it!” Irene had reached over to slap you in excitement but stopped short realizing just how close you were to pulling her right into the bath. 

“You’re a literal yo-yo I swear, could you just decide on whether you love or hate him, please? So I can live in peace.” You sighed, thumb and forefinger rubbing hard at the ridge of your nose as Irene cackled, clearly enjoying vexing you out. “Besides, he’s doing what he promised to. Isn’t that what matter most?” 

“I know I haven’t been exactly nice about him, but I do respect him for sticking to his words. But I have to ask, does he at least show interest in you in privacy?” Your mouth dropped open at her question but cut short before the words could form. “I don’t mean that privacy, nasty! I mean when it’s just you and him. Does his tone change? Is he sweeter than normal?” By the change in her tone, you knew the conversation had gone into a completely different territory, and this Irene wasn’t the one nosy about your sex life nor leaving empty milk carton in the fridge on purpose to annoy the shit out of you.

“It’s kind of crazy. Obviously during work, he stays professional. Yet the second the clock ticks five, it’s like he’s a completely different person.” You mulled over the duality of the man, knowing just when to be soft and when to be stern. “When we talk on the phone, text even, he and our CEO might as well be two completely different person.” You sighed gently, far too lost in your own thought to even remember Irene was still very much perching on the edge of your toilet. 

“Have you not seen each other in person since?”

“No… I didn’t think that was a good idea. I mean when we have private meeting, I could tell he really tried his best to stay professional. Yet sometimes if our hands accidentally touch, or if I sit a bit too close, I could see it in his eyes, that moonstruck look.”

“Wow, if you told me a month ago our boss has a soft side, I’d have thrown you off the roof of our company.” The way Irene cheered and clapped; you would’ve thought Junhoe was merely a robot knowing nothing of emotions.  “More importantly, how are you feeling?” 

“I’m content, I guess. It starting to feel a lot like the beginning, back when I was just another worker crushing on him. I don’t know why, but it makes me feel like I’m 16 again really falling for someone for the first time ever.” It was hard to explain exactly the way Junhoe made you feel, the butterflies in your stomach, as if your heart had grown wings. When was the last time you felt such pure, innocent love for someone, you couldn’t recalled. For so long you’ve learned to be good to yourself, to be okay with being alone, to love yourself. Yet there were always those cold night, those weekend mornings when Irene would be skipping her way to brunch or some crazy adventure with her beau and you’d feel the tiniest pin pricking at your heart. You were happy for her, happy for yourself but sometimes, sometimes you do wish for that one person that could accept you unconditionally. You had never placed that expectation on Junhoe, not at all when he had pulled you into his arms that night in the elevator. You thought it was just a one-night stand, a few glorious hours in heaven with the country’s most eligible bachelor. Yet promises of the future got your heart in a twist and all you could think of since was sharing body heat on a cold rainy day, of dinner for two, and of the simple mundane moments spent in content silent. 

“I’m happy for you! Have you thought about when you’ll talk to him again? I’m not rushing you by any mean, but it’s been a month, Y/n. Are you close at all to forgiving him?”

“In all honesty, I think I’ve already forgiven him the second I agreed to let him wait for me. I understood where he came from, but what he said, it still wasn’t right.” You’ve told yourself a million times that you’d do this your way, and if that meant never being with Junhoe, you were ready to accept the consequences. That didn’t mean part of you wasn’t yearning for the day you could forget about the past and proudly call him yours. 

“I know I haven’t exactly been nice about him but, I could tell everything he had done so far, good and bad, it was out of his feeling for you. I can understand being so overwhelm and blind by your emotion, you begin to forgo all rationality.” That was something you hadn’t much experience with, being so blind by love, letting emotion dictates your action. But from the countless time Irene had broken down in your arms after a heartbreak, you always knew she meant well and by all means in the world she was a good person… Yet her action, her words in the moment had made absolutely no sense, the person she was in that single moment in time was so foreign, you wanted nothing more but to dissect her brain to confirm she really was still your best friend. 

“I know… He made a grave mistake, and even as hurtful as everything had been, I feel like he doesn’t deserve to be persecuted simply because he followed his heart’s instinct. And I know this is a bit of a reach but, I just needed to know, to be sure that 5 years from now, I won’t be resentful of something I thought I dealt with. As time goes on, there’s not a single doubt that I already fallen in love with him. But that love will mean absolutely nothing if I can’t let go of that hurt, if guilt dictates our relationship and future. I’ve forgiven him, but I need to make absolutely sure I can let go and forget about an event that quite honestly was the defining moment of our relationship.”

There was no denying the anticipation bubbling very close to the surface whenever you knew a meeting with Junhoe was in the near future. Yet the days to follow your conversation with Irene, it officially reached an unprecedented height when the anticipation had fully grown into nervousness. Butterflies thrashing its wings in your stomach and with each second passing, you were a tick closer to bearing the content of your stomach for the world to see. Even if you knew it was merely for a morning briefing, even a quick lunch with about 10 other poor souls suffering through a stuffy meal with the big boss. You didn’t care, your heart didn’t care because every second you had with him was every second longer you’d have to hold you over the entire weekend long of not seeing Junhoe. It felt so much like the first time you had gone out with a boy, counting down every second until you could see him again and every second away, was every single second of being torture. Each goodbye was getting a bit harder, and the excitement once glowed in your chest for a fun weekend no longer what it used to be. Two entire days, two entire days without that handsome smile, without feeling his warmth. As your step echoed closer to the conference held beyond the grand doors you’ve now grown fond of, sadness slowing your feet. Hesitation stopping your knuckle short of rapping against the wooden surface you knew hold your entire heart, soul wishing it had more time but alas, punctuality was something Junhoe favored. 

The thought of the weekend to come pushed aside, but there wasn’t much helping the grimace on your face and the emotion steeling in your chest. You must’ve looked like you had lost your entire life saving because it hadn’t gone unnoticed by the big boss, scowl already on his lips. You had settled beside your supervisor, discomfort written so clearly over your features had him worried. Even as the meeting went on, his eyes lingered back to you often, wanting, needing to know what had got his favorite person so down not even a smile was shared. 

In a flash, the meeting you once thought as dreadful had gone by far too quick and once more it was time to shuffle back to the loneliness of your own office. Purposefully taking far too long packing up your folder, you were last to file out from his office. Yet before your sadden self could make it through the threshold, gentle hand wrapped around your wrist, the first time he had touched you since this budding friendship was formed.

“Ms. Y/n, if you could stay back for a few minutes. There are a few things I’d like to add into the project.” His voice warm against your soul, giving just the right boost for a smile to blossomed on your lips. 

“Yes, sir.”

Admittedly, he had hated when you utter those honorific term. It felt like a stab in his chest, a reminder that he’ll always be your boss and that was how your relationship will always be. Yet now, he had begun to find it adorable the way you had more than once let his first name slipped only to stuttered out the term to cover up the embarrassment bright red on your cheeks. Now and then, you’d say the term far too often, and he wondered if it was your way of reminding yourself that the world existed beyond just you and him. He had long accepted too that it was simply part of your job, and despite how smitten he was with you, on surface level you were still very much boss and worker. You bore no ill will behind those terms… Not the way you once so bitterly bit out “Sir” to spite him. 

“Pardon my suddenness but, are you feeling alright?” Junhoe hoped you’ll forgive him for being so forward, for letting his finger gently smoothing over your redden cheeks. It was torturous, the half hour of business jargons being spew and he could do nothing but watch the sorrow lingered in your voice. You had delivered an exceptional job as always, but he couldn’t bear the way you sounded so grim, looking so grim. “Something is wrong, I know it. I’m worry.”

“I’m okay, honest.” You feigned a smile but the way his eyes burning, boring into you, Junhoe wasn’t buying it. The small sight leaving his lips was all the more gut wrenching as he turned away, sauntering back to his seat. You felt as if you had lied to a puppy. “It’s just, Irene is leaving for the entire week for a trip and, it’s the first time she’ll be gone this long since we moved in together. I guess I’m just…” Would it be crass for you to say that word, lonely. How could you be lonely when Junhoe was here, every day, waiting for the moment when you decided that you were too. 

“I see…” He nodded simply when the rest of that sentence failed to leave your lips, entirely unsure himself as to what he could do. Millions question running through his mind but the courage in his heart slowly dwindling.

“yea… It’s silly. Don’t worry about me.” Silent settled over the once grey, stuffy office. Sun shining brightly through his windows, highlighting so perfectly the man with his attention entirely on you. It was only now that you had realized this was the first time you and he were truly alone. Even if it was under the guise of work, you finally had Koo Junhoe all to yourself. “I’m sorry, I’m probably cluttering up all your time. I should go.”

“No, no… I- I mean, work hour nearly done anyways.” It burned you to see the hesitation in his action, in his words. You knew he wanted nothing more than to be with you, but he yet dared asked for it. Perhaps now was as good a time as any to address the heaviness weighing down your heart, the last bit of constraint holding the both of you back from the future.

“Any plan for the weekend?”

 “Nothing much, probably just gym.” Admittedly it surprised him to hear you ask of his plan, especially one for the weekend. But that bit of hope that flared every time you smile at him, raging once more. 

“That’s it? Aren’t you supposed to be jetting off to some amazing destination in your private jet, sipping champagne or something?” You quipped with the brightest sparkles of surprise in your eyes and it left Junhoe doubling over in laughter.

“Goodness, someone clearly seen too many drama. I’m not that kind of CEO, Y/n. I enjoy the simple things in life. Plus, if I run off to some crazy destination every weekend, who’s going to do my work for me?” That was true, he wasn’t much into the lavish lifestyle many in his position might enjoy. Not that spontaneous moments where he’d fly off toward some paradise doesn’t exist, or that he had never taken first class or own a personal private jet, those moments definitely happen now and then. He just much preferred having someone to share and enjoy those moments with, and this very second, the person he’d give his life to have accompanying him was you. What good would a vacation do if it only meant he’d be far away from you, letting his every waking hour filled with thoughts about you. 

“How about you? Any big plan?” His question simple yet the thought behind it, was anything but. He wanted to know if you were going out with anyone, he wanted to know if you’d consider going out with him… But he had promised you. 

“Irene is leaving straight from work so once that clock hit 5, I’m officially flying solo with no plan.” You tested the water, watching as the corners of his lips curved up with the softest touch of happiness yet he said nothing. “Usually Friday night is girl night out but…” Your voice trailed off, and Junhoe found himself dumbly nodding along, unable still to offer up dinner. 

“I see…” 

“Since you don’t have any plan… Would you want to go grab a tea or coffee or something? If it’s not too much trouble that is…”

“I- really?”

“Ah, forget it… It was just a thought.” It was silly, your heart still wavered so after the hundred times Junhoe nearly declaring his love for you, after all you both went through. 

“No, no, that’s not what I meant. I’d love to, but are you sure I’m good enough to replace Irene?”

“Well, I don’t know if replace is the right word… Definitely do not let her hear you say that.” You heeded a teasing warning.  “But I think you’re overqualified, if anything, I’m under qualify to hang out with you.” You said with a teasing wink, yet the gaze returned was anything but. 

“I’m sorry. Please don’t think that…” You meant it as a joke, you really did, but to Junhoe, that sentence carried weight he wasn’t sure he could handle. Hope and happiness vanished from those beautiful eyes as the weight of the past glossed over with grey cloud of storms. You couldn’t help but felt your heart break at the way he retreated back, so small and powerless. 

“Junhoe… I didn’t mean that. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I just, I want you to know that…” His mind scrambling, finding the right words to express his feeling but all his thought lost the second he felt your hand gently caressing peace back into his heart. In the few seconds he had stood there muttering and babbling his way through the mess his brain had melted into, you had found your way to his side, breaking all his expectation. Was this a dream? Junhoe thought as he let his arms wound around your body, feeling your warmth, your hands patting gently on the broadness of his back. 

“I don’t deserve this…” he muttered gently into the crook of your neck, nuzzling in so close, taking all he could before his time was up. 

“You do, everyone deserve a second chance.” 

In that very second, the world was right in Junhoe’s eyes. This, this was how everything was always supposed to be. Soft and gentle moments with you, no pain, no tear. He had been so desperately praying for this moment for so long, that just being here with you felt like a dream, and the world stood still, this moment frozen in time so he could savor every bit of it.

As you stood there, letting him have all the time he needed, feeling the neediness in his touches, and sincerity in his words, clarity washed over you with the force of the universe. You had thought healing meant taking time to yourself, to really let the hurtful words of the past settled in before you could release it back into the world as nothing but fading memories. Yet now, standing here in his arms, it had never been clearer that the last part of this journey your heart had been on toward recovery, the last 2% that was still faintly bruised needed Junhoe. He was the key to your last step toward a normal life, a life full of happiness. You both had finally broke down the first gate toward forever and there won’t be a thing to stop you from here on out.

In the end, your little plan of having a nice chat over coffee was thoroughly thwarted by the pesky hands of rush hours. You both might’ve been ready to take that first step into the future but apparently, the world had another plan. You favorite café had been teeming with cranky, caffeine craving office workers, either needing the boost for overtime or to stay awake long enough for a good night out. You glanced left, then right, only to start back at Junhoe with the saddest pout you could mustered up in disappointment. 

“I didn’t realized it was this busy, I’m sorry. I know you’d much prefer more privacy.” You apologized hastily, nearly being bulldozed out of the way by a large group of women pushing past you. 

“That’s alright, maybe next time.” He sighed regrettably, hiding a small grin rooted in just how much he wanted to squeez3 your cheek, and that the adorable little pout on your lips made him wanting to buy out the entire place just for you. “I hope I’m not crossing the line, but…” His pause had you at attention, sadden doe eyes staring back at him awaiting. “Would you perhaps want to get dinner with me? We both need to eat and that way, at least I can fulfill my duty as your companion?” Hope resting on each word, each smile, and each breath, sincerely hoping he’d abled to convinced you. 

“I supposed I could use some food right now. But I’m still paying though, so please go easy on my wallet!”

Nothing else he could do but let a soft defeated laugh falling through his parted lips, unable to protest for the honor of paying for dinner when you had already excitedly skipped off toward his car. Once more, his passenger seat was warmed with more than just to-go container, or his trusted briefcase. And although he hadn’t yet dare to reach over and grab your hand, just having you humming along to the radio was enough for now. 

In the end, after realizing that it was indeed a Friday night, and every decent restaurant in your price range had a waitlist longer than your life expectancy, you both ended up hovering over bags of fast food. Even if the quality of dinner was less than subpar, your conversation, your companion was more than enough to make up for. As laughter grew familiar, likes and dislikes became known, and the moon was once more high in the sky, it was time to part way. Although you both had driven from one end of the city to another in search of food, and even longer lingering about after all the food had been eaten, the night still ended far too soon. 

Under the pale moonlight, Junhoe once again feeling the weight of goodbye heavy on his heart. Feet dragging purposefully through the parking lot of your apartment, he wished time would stop so he’d have this moment forever. Goodbye had always been hard but now that he knew what it was like to spend time with you, no hurt, no pain hanging over your conversation, it seemed to be exponentially harder to watch you walk away. 

“Thank you for tonight, I enjoyed your company greatly!” You teased to hide the sadness in your heart, not yet ready to part way. 

 “No, thank you for spending time with me, and for dinner!” Neither you nor he was ready to leave, letting the soft cold air of the night lulled you both into a comforting silent. Dinner was done, drink finished, what other reason there be to keep him close?

“Can I be honest with you?” Somewhere deep within your heart, the tiniest speck of courage had reached up its hand to guide the truth from your lips. You voiced up timidly, staring at your feet shuffling in place, his hands hanging beside his body and you suddenly craved that feeling of being hold. 

“What’s wrong?” Concern laced his tone, more so since you couldn’t meet his eyes. 

“Earlier, when I said to not worry about me, and that I was down about Irene leaving town for a week… That was a lie. The real reason, well, it’s kind of silly…” You chuckled but it eased his heart not. The way you were staring off into the distant, avoiding his eyes, Junhoe was sure he had done something wrong but cursed his tiny brain for not remembering. 

“You can tell me anything.”

“I, I was really down because weekend meant that I won’t be seeing you for two entire days…”

“Oh, sweetheart…” He hoped the little nickname leaving his lips wouldn’t offend you, in truth, he really couldn’t help but utter it because you were, in all rights in the world, his sweetheart. Your confession left Junhoe spinning, heart skipping all the beats, and his soul rejoiced. If there were ever any reservation preventing his arms from weaving themselves around your body, all that had been banished. “I’m only ever a phone call away…” He held you so close, so close he swore he could feel your heart drumming in your chest. 

“But, it’s not the same as seeing you… Besides, I can’t just bother you any time of day because I’m clingy.” The whine leaving your lips left Junhoe both in awe, and in absolute confusion. It was so sweet, to think you longed to see him in the hours apart, well, it left his heart swelling so large, Junhoe felt as if all the air in his lungs had just vacated in unfathomable bliss. Yet how could you not realized that he would give his life to spend every possible second with you. It was mind boggling to think that you were still doubting just how much he want to be by your side. 

“Y/n, this whole time, I’ve been worried sick that you never want to see me again… And here you are, calling yourself clingy?” The shock rippling through his features was a fraction of the overwhelming emotion in his heart. “Sweetheart, I’d give my entire company away if it meant you’ll spend just an hour with me.” He hadn’t even known it was a possibility, still patiently waiting for the day when you’d come back to him, fearing you never wanted to come back. But now, soft laugh rumbling through his chest, pure bliss as he watched a satisfying smile bloomed on your lips before you leaned into his chest. 

“I mean, giving away your company is a bit overboard… I was just going to ask for a few hours of your time.” You chewed over the offer he had just playfully given, feeling yourself falling into Junhoe. 

“Does that mean I get to see you this weekend?” Happiness washing over his existent as you hummed a soft yes into his chest, no closer to relinquishing your hold over him. A smile Junhoe thought was gone the second you had walked away returned to his lips, far more brilliant than any smile before in his life. 

“As much as I want to stand here all night with you, it’s getting late. You should go get some rest, highly recommended if you were to put up with me all weekend long.” You jested with a small wink, forcing yourself to part way with the comfort of his hug.

“Nonsense!” Your carefree laughter shooing away the coldness of the night, and Junhoe wanted nothing more but to be the person that make you laugh for the rest of his life. “It is getting quite chilly, get in before you fall ill.” Junhoe stood there at the front of your apartment, waving until he could no longer see you. There was a point in time when that image weighed so heavy on his heart, watching your figure disappearing behind a closing door. But now, a new hope, new happiness replaced that heaviness and for once, Junhoe was excited for another sunrise. 

For the first time since that fateful night, you’ve awakened in solace and contentment. This journey of healing, of rediscovering yourself had been wonderful, and amazing in every way possible. You’ve processed the hurt and accepted Junhoe’s sincerity, but what you did too was reassuring yourself once more of your self-worth. No word, no man, no matter how amazing he might be, could ever take away any part of you or could ever again make you doubt yourself. You’ve accepted what he had done, the severity of it, and given yourself all the time it needed to finally move pass it without even a hint of resentment. It was a magnificent month, but it was time to move on, and you’ve never been more ready. 

Excitement fresh in your chest at the thought of the bind of boss and employee finally being broken. Gone were the prying eyes waiting for the next hot topic for gossip. Gone too were the stuffy façade you’ve had to put up and the constraint of time being placed on souls that wanted nothing more than to be free. You’ve got all the time in the world, all the time to get to know Junhoe as he is, the Junhoe beyond the impeccable suit and fearsome reputation. As you bounced excitedly by the elevator whirling toward its destination, a sudden dread filled your stomach when your eyes met your own reflection in the smudgy mirror. 

The you of beyond the the office wall and boring business jargon had been a mystery to Junhoe thus far. He know nothing of the you hiding behind the façade of the perfect worker you had so painstakingly created… And the heartbroken girl crying over lost love. This you, plain and nothing like the formidable woman respected by your subordinate, what if this boring and average you isn’t what Junhoe wanted afterall. 

As the overworked elevators door struggled to pull open, begrudgingly readying itself for another busy day, the atmosphere suddenly vacated the room. Lightheaded and nervous, each step taken toward the outside world was a step closer to your heart just finally flatlining, drumming erratically as your eyes adjusted to the bright sun. Yet the second your eyes laid upon that familiar smile, all the worry of the world vanished just as fast as it had intruded your perfect dream. There he stood, in the same spot you had waved him goodbye the night before, so perfect. He was in simple black jeans and white t-shirt, red plaid flannel hung loosely over his tone frame. The hair normally so neatly pushed back now soft and relaxed, framing his feature so perfectly. 

So long you’ve always wonder what this would feel like, the scene played out in nearly every drama you’ve watched… What would it be in real life, to have Junhoe waiting so patiently for your arrival, excitement bubbling so close to the surface, ready for the big first date. The emotion surging through your vein now, it was nothing short of your expectation and so much more as you rushed toward the handsome man, wholeheartedly awaiting you. 

“Sorry, did I make you wait long?” The elation in your heart soared to an unprecedented height as Junhoe wrapped his arms around you, squeezing you so tightly, he dispelled nearly all the nervousness previously occupied your soul. 

“Not at all! Even then, I wouldn’t mind waiting all day if it means I can see you.” Sighing gently, Junhoe reveled in the way you fit so perfectly in his hug. 

He stilled for a second, letting your giggle caressed joy into his heart. Once more you were occupying the passenger seat beside him, yet this time, this time he was brave enough to gently cup your small hand in his. His heart bloomed when a small bashful smile blossomed on your lips as his fingers intertwined in yours, holding so tightly as the wheels of his car rolled forward into your first date. 

Perhaps a bit silly, but your breath was taken away the very first time you laid your eyes upon the sight of him so effortlessly taking on the road. Despite the heartbreaking talk that had sent you off that night, his posture seemingly peaceful, one hand gently resting on the steering wheel, fingers tapping along to the beat of the thumping speaker. His eyes focus intensely on the paved road meandering the city street lined with high rises. Leaning back into his driver seat, Junhoe got his other arm resting precariously on the window’s ledge, fingers toying with those soft lips you’ve missed so much. Now and then, he’d glanced side way as he commanded the car to switch lane, giving you the perfect peek at his stunning profile illuminated so perfectly by the settling sun. Your eyes traced out the defined edges of his nose, down to those delectable lips, to the sharpness of his jawline. Never before had you seen a man so perfect, the sight beholding so surreal, it left you speechless. Soft brown locks no longer pristine, draping slightly over his forehead, creating an almost divine glow with the aid of the honey rays of the golden hour approaching. You thought nothing could’ve made the experience more perfect and your heart thrashed in its cage for that moment to last forever. 

How wrong you were then, because this very second as you leaned in close, taking in a long whiff of the sultry mix of his intoxicating cologne and something very Junhoe, your soul slipped into a euphoric high. The way his hand wrapping so tightly around your own, the smile mesmerizingly beautiful on his lips as he spoke of his morning left you in the highest state of happiness. The longer you let yourself lost in that sweet voice and amazing smile, the more you want for nothing else but to spend the rest of your days just like this, by his side. 

“You’re staring at me quite bit there, sweetheart.” Junhoe mused gently, a smirk already tugging at the corner of his lips when you jumped slightly from your seat.  “Do I have toothpaste on my face? I spent so long getting ready too, shame…” He feigned a pout, knowing full well just what… why you had been staring so intently at his every movement. 

“I- Don’t mind me.” You said with a small cough as if it could clear away the embarrassment settling fast on your rosy cheeks. You forced your eyes ahead, shrinking further into the soft leather seat as Junhoe chuckled gently.

“I can get used to it…” He sighed so gently, so suddenly, you were left ogling once more in confusion. “The staring, I can get used to it if that meant you’re next to me all the time.” He glanced your way, smiled brightly when a tiny grin spread on your lips before you caught yourself staring once more, retreating back to your stoic stare at the road ahead. A hearty chuckle rumbled through his chest and something sounding awful lot like “cute” lost in the laugh, whisked away by the contentment in the air. 

With each tick of the clock passing by, your heart was reassured more and more that it was ready to move on, the thought of your shared painful past no longer plaguing your thoughts. All you could feel was happiness as junhoe so proudly held your hand in his, leading you through the day. Along with the cloud nine of elation, a bit of pride risen in your chest when soft whispers and small gasps of perhaps admiration, perhaps envy, when he had walked you through the busy restaurant. Yet at the same time, you couldn’t help but cowered further into his side, feeling the stares of other diners on your back as you sauntered by.

“What’s wrong?” Ever so observant, worries glossed over his eyes feeling you huddling so tightly into him.

“You’d think I’m used to being the attention of the room by now, given just how many meeting I’ve held… But…” A nervous chuckle rattled through your chest, glancing about at the still prying eyes, a few whispers praising his look reached your ears. “I know they mostly are staring at you, and I mean, I don’t blame them but…”

“But you’re uncomfortable…” No sooner than that little nod had met his gaze, Junhoe already called out to the hostess, requesting a private dining room. And though you protested, quoting it was far too much trouble for something so trivial, he only smiled into the small kiss pressed against your temple. 

“I’m sorry, forgive me.” He expressed his concern sweetly, hand squeezing yours tightly. 

“No, there’s nothing you should be sorry for. It was just kind of surprising, I guess. I suppose I’ll have to get used to it, especially when the gossip squad catch wind of us…” You could sense another apology was about to fall from his lips, the way his gaze faltered, lips pressed into a thin line. “I can get used to it, if it meant that you’d be next to me all the time.” The sentiment he had shared with you just moments ago once more floating contently in the air, drawing a blinding smile from Junhoe. 

“Wait, gossip squad? I have something like that in my company?” As contentment settled over the small room protecting the new souls embarking on the journey toward a budding relationship, his attention drawn to the topic you had just raised. Normally he wasn’t one to be privy to nor care enough to learn of the useless gossip buzzing in the floors below his. Yet if it pertains to the love of his life, it went without saying that he was all ears. 

“Yes, they’re mostly harmless… They just spend a lot of time…” Your little pause got Junhoe at the edge of his seat, awaiting the word being so carefully select within your mind. “Lot of time discussing other people’s business. Irene and I named them so after the 3rd time they tried to loop us in on some dating nonsense between a few workers.”

“Well, I’ve never been against my employee dating each other, so there’s not much to say about that, is there? I mean the rule book even said so, you can date, but if it interferes with company’s business then there’s consequences” How could this man be so innocent, you’ve got no clue. Yet as you sat back and watched him pondered the politic of dating gossip, a smile melted on your lips just hearing his pure thoughts and logic as to why there should be no gossip on dating under his roof. “I thought it was very straightforward, what else is there to gossip about?”

“I don’t think they’re much concern with HR issues… More just trying to be in everyone’s business.” You sighed, a small kiss placed atop his hand. 

“Should I do something about it? …Since I assume, they were the one that called you… You know… I honestly, when I stood there listening to them, I nearly die from the words they spoken.” The word he’d never use to describe you echoed in his heart along with the pain so anguished on your features. 

“You’re sweet. But I’m okay, I swear. They don’t bother me much, though I can’t speak for Irene or the people they’ve name dropped.” You winced recalling the many times Irene near tear her hair out just being within earshot of the squad. 

Even as amazing courses began to fill the table, delectable scent permeating through every crack and crevice of the small room, your conversation continued to blossom, laugher echoed vibrantly. Likes and dislikes shared, you learned more of Junhoe in the short hour spent over the feast befitted for royal than you had with many others over the years. All the preconception you had of the man completely out the window as the clock ticked on. The man you once thought as methodical was so effortlessly easygoing and sweet, he left you wondering if the boss you dealt with day in, day out at work was his twin, or even a robot substitute. The way he laughed so carefree, letting the sweet sound lulled your heart toward joy made you question each and every time you had seen a scowl on his lips, as if his harsh tone were nothing but hallucination. No man, none, you’ve encountered possessed a smile more brilliant than that of Koo Junhoe. He could brighten anyone day by just smiling their way and it made your heart tingled to know that he always smiles for you. The meal soon came to an end with more boxed away for to-go than eaten, Junhoe sheepishly admitted to having order far too much for just two people, not knowing exactly what you’d like. Needless to say, dessert too came in an array varying from decadent chocolate to sweet fruits. And though you knew even just half the bill would probably cost you your right arm and 3 kidneys, you insisted upon pay for it anyways. Your little protest to pay was muffled out with a big hug, he whispered softly that you could pay for coffee before tugging you into his chest. The meal had been paid for long before your nose had even detected that wonderful scent of seafood mingling with a faint, distant trace of steak and potatoes. 

As you both once more rumbling down the street in his car, stomach happy and heart full, Junhoe steered you off into destination unknown with a gentle grin on his lips, excited that you hadn’t even once voice any concern despite not knowing at all his plan. The endless buildings lining your drive soon turned into rows of trees, lining the paved road with a refreshing sight of green, dotting with tiny blooms of colors. 

“Just a small question…” As the groves of tree grew dense and air so refreshing it had begun purifying your lungs of all the nasty of the city, your curiosity grew. And though your mind was plagued with questions, your heart remained content and happy despite the fact that you were warily studying the surrounding. “Am I being kidnapped?” Your small question elicited a laugh from the man that had been happily holding your hand in silent till this point. 

“I was wondering when you’d finally be concern.” He mused gently with a tiny kiss on the back of your hand.

“No, no. Not concern, just curious.” You corrected, shrinking in embarrassment when he once more called you cute. 

“We’ve been staying in the city for most part… Well, my office to be exact. I thought a change of scenery would be good switch up for us.” 

As the last syllable fell from his lips, Junhoe pulled the car over, entering a parking lot with just as much greenery as the road leading here, though there were much more flowers lining the path. Your eyes widen at the sight beholding. Seemingly endless rows of all colors possible in nature draped themselves over the hillside as if mother nature had painted over the brown patches of Earth with her favorite hues. A smile plastered on your lips as you took in lungs full of fresh air, sweet scent of blossoms filled your olfactory with delights. Your eyes widen at the dainty petals swaying in the air, flowers and color combination you’ve never before seen in your life stood tall and proud under the honey rays of the sun, then stare back at Junhoe with all the excitement your heart could muster up. He only smiled in return, taking your hand once more in his, Junhoe pulled out two tickets from the safe confinement of his pocket. 

You were on the verge of being surprise for just a split second but of course, what else could you expect other than total preparedness from your dear date. By this point, honestly, it’d be more shocking if he hadn’t already paid for your dinner for the next three weeks. If your breath had been taken away before, your mind was now blown at the scenery unfolding itself as you both passed through the entrance. Seemingly never-ending tunnel of purple wisteria draping, tickling your nose with its wonderful scent. As you both sauntered down the path of purple ombre itself into white, you were greeted with the sight of a magnificent glasshouse bursting with vibrancy. Clouds of intense red and delicate yellow blending themselves with puff of dainty pink and refreshing green creating the most delightful hanging garden you’ve ever laid your eyes on. Just beyond the crystal clear wall of the glasshouse, you could make out swirls of white and baby pink, mingling in the soft breeze with more shades of pink peonies than you could ever hope to named. 

“How have I lived this long without knowing this place exist… I’m, I’m speechless! Thank you so much.” You exclaimed, ecstatic when Junhoe had nudged you on, letting you know there were so much more to see.

“I’m glad you like it. I was honestly so nervous about bringing you here.”

“I’m more than just like it, I love it, so so much. How often do I even get to see flowers in such monumental quantity? There’s so many here I don’t even know the name of!” Appreciation falling from your lips as you bent over, letting the soft petals and wonderful fragrant of a velvety smooth rose, red so deep it nearly appeared black, tickling your nose. 

“Any time you want.” Nothing bring Junhoe more joy than the sight of you enjoying yourself, smiling so brightly, knowing that he was the reason. 

“Hmm?” His answer so simple yet it left you wondering if behind that reply, a deeper meaning hidden. 

“Any time you want to see the flowers, I’ll be your driver.” 

Junhoe was so close, so close to placing a small kiss on the smile spreading on your lips but the reservation of just where he stands still plaguing his heart. Even though this very second, you were reaching for his hand as you tugged him along the colorful path toward the garden warmed by the golden sun. Another hour of wandering the seemingly infinite paths leading to different exhibitions, the next one better than the last, you both decided to rest your worn soles on the side of a small stream, basking in the soft sunlight.

As you awaited the return of your date, watching as tiny pink petals floating as if tiny fairies dancing in the crisp air, your heart began to drum erratically. The entire day had filled with the best food and the best sight, all the things to distract your mind from the implication of just what this date would mean for your relationship with Junhoe. But now, with nothing but the calming stream, painted pink by the many cherry blossom trees rooted along the bank, no time could be better for matters of the hearts. As junhoe settled down beside you, a picnic basket in hand and the brightest smile on his lips, you were ready to continue on this journey, hand in hand, hearts melting into one. 

“What’d you bring?” Sliding over to give him space, your eyes filled with delight as Junhoe began pulling out treats from the woven basket. 

“Just a few sweet, and tea.” Comfortable right beside you, Junhoe handed over a plate of cake.

“You haven’t had enough sweet yet?” You teased, feeding him a big piece of strawberry before taking a bite yourself. 

As the comforting silent of hearts beating as one settling over your small outing once more, your mind continued to buzz with the curiosity of the man you were so close to call yours. You let your eyes traced over each of his sharp features, really admiring the way he glowed so ethereally under the golden rays as he let himself immersed in nature. You wondered of the pain he went through in the past, the pain that had led him to be so cruel to your heart the second doubt had sowed its seed in his heart. You wondered too, one day, would you be able to help him heal. 

“Junhoe…” You called softly, to which he let a soft hum fallen from his lips in reply. “I- I don’t know if this is crossing the line, and I’m sorry if it is but…”

“What is it, sweetheart?” Concern sprinkling itself across his features, hand inching closer to yours as he let himself lost in the sight of you, finger gently tracing the line of your face.

“You’ve said before that you got burn by women in your past… And I don’t mean to pry but…” 

“You want to know what happened… I get it. After what I did to you, it’d only be natural for you to be curious.” A soft smile bloomed as Junhoe gently cup your cheek in his hand, reveled in the way you leaned into his touch, placing a small kiss on his palm. 

“You don’t have to if it’s uncomfortable, I just… Yes, I’m curious but sometimes I wonder if, if I’ll ever be enough to help you move on from something that left you so scarred.” You got his hand in yours, grabbing on so tightly as if transferring all the love your soul could give, hoping it’d be enough to sooth his heart. You knew the scars of the past won’t ever fade away, but if you could even just for small parts, help him forget about it…

“Y/n don’t even think like that. Just you being here with me, giving me your precious time, it already means so much. What happened in the past, I won’t say that it doesn’t affect me anymore. Evidently, it already came between us once before and nothing I can do could make up for it. But just having you close to me, seeing you so happy, knowing you’re smiling because of me… I’d trade my whole life to have that.” As the sweet words continued to fall from his lips, Junhoe tugged you in between his legs, wrapping his arms around you so tightly, tears began brimming your lashes from just how loved you felt. 

“I used to dream about the day when someone could make me feel so loved, nothing else in the world matter… And thank you for giving me just that.” Junhoe whispered against the kiss he placed upon your cheek, as you basked in the way his fingers gently digging into your hair, loosening all the emotional knots that were holding you back from fully letting go. 

“About my past…” Junhoe was first to break the solace fallen over your restful form, still holding onto him so tightly.

“You don’t have to…” You sighed, tracing your index over the tall bridge of his nose, down to those lips you’ve been craving for a taste since that fateful night. “I’m sorry I brought it up…”

“I need to.” He replied simply. You nodded, understood fully the turmoil in his heart as you settled back down beside him. 

His words took you back to the time of young love, fresh face and barely out of high school, knew nothing yet of the pain of heartbreak. Junhoe was much less wary of the dangerous world, naively believing still in the good of other. It was the spring of his freshman year when a young Junhoe had caught the eyes of a senior. She was beyond beautiful and was loved, chased after by guys and girls alike. He hadn’t thought much when the she had introduced herself, though he did think it was strange for the princess of the dance department to be so interested in a business nerd like himself. But he was just a boy with a golden heart, questioning naught her intention nor the bedroom eyes she had given him. With each tick of the clock, he was lost, his heart was no longer beating for himself and his soul longed for each second it gets to spend near her. His days consumed by the lingering scent of her perfume, pressed deep into his skin from where she had touched, lost in the tingling sensation left by the kiss she had given him as a morning greeting. Nights were filled with endless texts and sometimes even content silent over the phone. Dates after dates, weekend trips soon followed. Even after she had stolen his heart, entrapped his soul, and eventually taken away too, his innocent… Never once did she made it clear what they were. But he was happy with just that, blissfully ignorant of just how much pain he was about to be in, showering her with loves and gifts, all the things a young boy in love could do to appease his heart’s desire. 

It all came raining down when he had arrived at the step of her dorm room the night of her birthday, endless gifts in tow, let in by her roommate who had always given him such pity expression and he never understood why. As he inched closer to the door he hoped held his love, the elation that had been bubbling in his chest exploded in anger and pain as her bedroom door creaked open. Junhoe was overwhelmed in emotion, every sense, sight, sound, scent, everything was overwhelmed by the he betrayal of someone he loved. She was wearing the expensive set he had bought her, letting another man loved her the way only he should be able to. Shocked, he had screamed out her name, watched as the stranger tumbled his way through the door, hastily pulling over the clothes that had been strewn messily across the floor. The man was out of there before his anger could settled into his fists, and in many ways, perhaps it was good that he did for Junhoe wasn’t sure what he’d do in that moment of blinding anger. He didn’t scream, didn’t say much for that matter, just stared. He stared at her, every inch of the milky skin he had spent hours loving, stained with the scent of another man. She begged at first, then she cried as if it was somehow his fault, that he had pushed her to do this. Finally, when he could take no longer the nonsense spilling from her lips, Junhoe tossed carelessly onto the floor the bouquet of flowers he had spent so much time and thought to pick out all her favorites. She tugged at his jacket, on her knees, begging for him not to leave, professing her love… Something he would’ve done had the night worked out. But he couldn’t take the betrayal, its poison already coloring his heart black as he tossed her way too, the many gifts he had prepared. She showed up at his dorm, his work, lingering on the path he’d take to school, but never again did he look her way. 

And though the pain of being cheated on hurt, it never did deter him from the quest to find love. Why should he keep himself from finding true love just because someone thought he wasn’t enough. Yet as birthdays passed and his free time grew short having taken on the mantel for his dad, it weighted down on Junhoe that love wasn’t so easily found and soon, his heart grew cold. He dated, just for the hope of his parents to someday have a grandchild. Some would last a few months, others, mere weeks before he was moving on. And when he had fell in love again, it was a love that was doomed to fail from the start…this time, he was entirely at fault.

He had met her at the old college he had attended, the same one that had given him so much but at the same time, took nearly all his heart. She was the new business professor, begged him incessantly to give a speech to her students, to motivate them because even if Junhoe had come from old money, he still had the mindset anyone would kill for to possess. It was just supposed to be a half hour of speech and a half hour of answering the burning questions of young minds. Yet he found himself lingering, even well into the 2nd hour after the last of the student had shuffled back into the world. There was no doubt that she’d have made a fine partner but that wasn’t what she was looking for. As independent as a person could possibly get, she didn’t need a man to live and she made that very clear from the beginning. He didn’t think that matter then, and definitely didn’t matter as he pounded her into submission atop the surface of the small desk occupying her office. She wasn’t looking for a relationship and neither did he. All they needed was someone they could use to fuck away the pent-up frustration of work… Or just to fuck, no reason really needed.  Yet as the stains of their sinful encounters grew from just their apartments to late nights at her office… His office, early mornings too at the lecture hall, and even countless times in their cars, something stirred in his heart. She was attractive, body that left him aching in the hours they were apart. But the way she spoke, the way she carried herself, it left him dumbly admiring just how mature she was compared to his first love, compared to the women he dated. No one that came before could understand him the way she did, and being a business professor, she understood too his work and passion. So before he could continue down the path that was slowly devolving into something much more complicated, he ended things. No lingering goodbye, not even one last night to end things with a bang, he just left. He knew the feeling he harbored wasn’t something she asked for, something that was solely his fault… something he dealt with entirely on his own and in the end, it made him callous to following his heart, drove him from dreaming of having that someone he could love with his entire heart and soul. 

“Then I met you…” A sigh of relief huffed from his lips, the weight of the world off his shoulders now that he could come clean, bear his all for you to see. 

“I’m really sorry” 

“Don’t be! I was instantly drawn to you the very beginning despite being wary still of just how big of a mess my heart could get me into. I did try. I really did, sweetheart, to stay away from you but, how could I? You’re literally everything I’ve ever wanted and more.” He adored the way every little thing could get you to smile, and how even after seemingly receiving the scolding of your life for something that wasn’t even your fault, your spirit wasn’t at all broken. Even when he had apologized for the wrongful scolding, a smile was still on your lips, simply stating that teamwork meant looking out for each other and you were just as much at fault. 

“You’re too sweet. I’m not that great.” A bashful giggle left your lips, not used to receiving endless compliment from him, and quite honestly, you didn’t think you’ll ever. 

“But you are! And I can’t say thank you enough for giving me the time of day.” Before the last syllable could leave his lips, you already sprawled yourself across the way, with all the intension of pulling the surprised man into a hug. Yet as clumsy as you were, things rarely worked out and this very second, you were atop his body, having just tackled him onto the ground thankfully lined with plushiness of soft, green grass. Your cheeks glowed bright with embarrassment as Junhoe heaved a hearty laugh, loving the weight of your body resting on his own. As laughter melted into the sweet scent of flowers and fresh air, satisfaction of being with one another settled once more, leaving you breathless, gasping for air from the way Junhoe was so lovingly gazing into your soul. Brushing a few strands of hair away from his eyes, you let your thumb lingered on the hollow of his cheek, a smile tugging at the corner of your lips when he chased it with a kiss. 

“Junhoe…” Your little uttered of his name got his attention fully on you, swallowing hard at the way your gaze dancing between his eyes and his lips. You got your lower lips tugged between your teeth, hesitation playing at the tip of your tongue but when he let his hands constricted around your waist, every bit of reservation was dislodged. “Junhoe…” You whispered once more, feeling your heart practically jumping out of your chest and soul soaring so high amongst the cloud. The butterflies that had been gently tickling your stomach were now fluttering a storm, leaving you breathless. You knew what you were about to say, and you knew too that he felt the same. Yet there was no helping the nervousness pumping through your veins, tearing your heart apart. So instead of letting those words you had been wanting to say for so long fall from your lips, you let your eyes fluttered close and with all the determination of your heart, pressed a small kiss onto his lips. It was so fleeting, small and delicate but it conveyed perfectly your feeling as Junhoe let his hand carding into your hair, shielding your head before flipping you onto your back. It was his turn to let out his feeling, letting his lips met yours once more but this time the kiss lingered into so much more. He guided you, happy as you molded your lips against his, chasing when he parted way just for a second. An entire park filled with the prettiest flowers at the height of spring and they couldn’t compare to you. He let small kisses falling onto your lips as he admired the gentle curves of your features, how soft you felt under his hold. He kissed you until his lungs were spent and even then, parting only for a fraction of a second before feeling your needy grasp luring him back in. Junhoe tested the water, letting a fleeting swipe of his tongue ran across your lower lips, enjoyed the way you immediately bent to his will, parting your lips to let him in. You were more than willing to greet him, letting him taste all you have to offer, heavy pants mingling in the air. 

“Junhoe…” You whispered once more, feeling the force of another kiss pressed into your soul.

“Yea, baby?” The term of endearment he had been craving to say tumbled out, sending jolts of electricity to your heart. 

“I love you.” Junhoe didn’t think his heart could be any fuller, skipping anymore beats as it just did the last few minutes, but he was so wrong. As the declaration of your love echoed into the air, vibrating through his chest so clearly, Junhoe was suddenly lost, lost for words, lost all the air in his lungs, and lost the control of his heart. Once more kisses raining down upon your skin, fluttering against each and every single of your features as the happy man celebrated the ending of his long journey. 

“I love you, too, so much.” He whispered over and over again, letting it mingle with words of shock, in disbelief still that you had just said those words. “Does it mean I’m officially out of the dog house now?”

“Ah… Yes, that definitely mean you’re officially out of the dog house.” Rising off the ground just enough to press a small kiss to his cheek, you let the soft giggle of the man that was now officially yours caressing solace back to your heart.

“Well, if that’s the case… Miss Y/n, will you be my girlfriend?” The question he had been waiting to ask, the one that left his soul glowing with delight, the one he had been safely storing inside his heart since that fateful night finally melting into a kiss, finally got to see the light of day. You nodded, furiously and fervidly, feeling tears running down your cheeks once more but this time it was nothing short of heavenly joy. “I’m never letting you go, ever again. You know that right, baby?” Gently wiping away the tears still hot against your cheeks, Junhoe let the words that set your heart ablaze fallen from his lips. There was nothing else you could do but nod because all your vocabulary, all the words you had learned in the short years being alive, it all vacated the second he had let those sweet words out from his heart. 

As the soft breeze of spring grew brisk and the golden hours had begun to sprinkle its brilliant sparkles over the entire garden, Junhoe proposed it was about time to pack up and leave. As the familiar path leading back toward the real world, you bid goodbye to each of your favorite flowers, wondering just when you’ll be able to visit again.

“I used to visit here so often…” His words got you perked up with excitement, yet that excitement soon faded as he continued. “But now, I don’t think I’ll be coming by much anymore.”

“But, why?” Your little whine nearly left his heart paralyzed. He knew you were hanging on to each word like a lifeline, teasing you on purpose but he definitely was not prepared for the reaction you had just given. 

“Because, why would I need to pay to see flowers, when I’ve got the prettiest one right beside me.” His statement left you frozen in confusion, doe eyes staring back as your heart doing its best to process the words. When the realization of what he had meant finally sunk into your heart, a tiny gasp left your lips along with a bashful grin. “Too cheesy?” 

“No… just, perfect…” Words stuttering from your lips, not at all hiding the fact that you were blushing intensely at the sly compliment. 

“I’m going have heart palpitation if you keep up being this cute.” 

And he was serious, Junhoe wasn’t sure how much more he could take of the soft rose coloring your cheeks seemingly every single time he had looked your way. Never before had he experienced this kind of love, the kind that left him cheesing like a kid and seemingly closer to death every single second passed because he could cope no longer with how adorable every single damn thing you do were. Sure, his very first love had been a good one, no matter how horrid the ending had been. But this, this was a whole new territory that Junhoe had just trekked into and he loved every single second of it, loved that it was you who were holding his hand through it all. Even with all the pain, all the misunderstanding, and tears, being with you was as effortless as breathing. And as he lowered the volume of the radio down, a smile broke over his lips watching your peaceful self drifting off into dreamland in the passenger side of his car. He wasn’t sure why or how, but Junhoe knew, as sure as the sun golden rays illuminating the day and the moon’s silvery wisp calming the night, he knew this would be the one to last.

As the cloud blended themselves into gorgeous swirls of gold and pink, the endless rows of trees and beautiful dainty petals ceased to exist as if the garden was nothing more than a beautiful daydream. Once more the bustling sidewalk and concrete jungle lined the road leading back home, once more sadness embraced his heart, unable to part way from such a wonderful day. Though he knew you were now his, and all the tangled of the hearts had resolved itself into a magnificent story ending, he’ll never get used to saying goodbye. As the familiar view of your front gate once more materializing, Junhoe heaved a heavy sigh before gently lulling you back to reality. 

 “Did you have fun today, love?” Lingering, Junhoe was buying all the time he could, all the seconds you could offer while nuzzling so deep within his chest. 

“So much fun! Thank you!” Little did he know, you too were buying time, stalling as you brainstormed the perfect reason to ask him in. “You have to let me repay you somehow. That was honestly the best date I’ve ever been on in a long while. Thank you so much.”

“Baby…” He sighed, unable to process still the luck the universe had bestowed on his undeserving self. “There’s no need to pay me back. I’m lucky enough already that you gave me the time to have the first date I’ve planned for us since the first time we kissed.”

“Oh… So, does that mean you’ll say no to staying over for dinner?” The little pout you had very purposefully tugged onto your lips knowing full well he couldn’t refuse the offer left Junhoe spinning. The way your sentence came out nearly a whine, the way your gaze fallen onto the floor, you could’ve ask him for his life this very second and he’d say yes. 

“Well, that… I didn’t think you were offering that when you say… I, of course I want to stay and have dinner with you.” A sheepish grin on his lips, Junhoe stammered an answer you already knew he would. A loud cheer erupted as you tugged his hand into yours, dragging him along. Junhoe felt himself soaring amongst the golden cloud of sunset, feeling the scars in his heart slowly vanishing as he stepped through the gate he had for so long wondering if he’ll ever get the chance to break through. 

As solace gently blanketing over the darken living room, illuminated by only the flashing lights of the TV, a sense of contentment warming in your chest as you leaned further into Junhoe, nosing at the lingering scent of cologne mixing in with your own perfume, leftover from an entire day of fun. The scent of dinner still lingering about your apartment though the food had long since stuffed away in the safe confinement of your stomach and his. Junhoe had sprawled out, making himself as home and nearly covering the entire length of your small couch as he relaxed into its soft cushion. No doubt if Irene were to arrive home this very second, she’d faint from the sight of the big boss resting on the couch, casual and completely relaxed.  Perfectly happy and comfortable, he pulled you into his lap, letting you lay gently atop his body with your face resting on his tone chest. One hand on the small of your back, he let the other carding gentle delight through your hair. Every now and then, when the movie had halted to a slow, a small kiss would bloom on the crown of your head, hush whispered of love tickled your ears. It felt strangely domestic, as if this had always been your nightly routine, as if you had been married for years. 

Slowly, even the tune of his favorite movie could no longer kept his attention as Junhoe let it turn to you. The way you were clinging onto him so tightly, sighing contently now and then as you pressed a small kiss onto his chest. No longer did Junhoe feared the future but rather curious, anticipating the funs to come and the adventures. Yet there was still a small part that that still left the flight of wasps in his stomach thrashing their wings violently. So rather than turning a blind eye just as he had so many times in the past, Junhoe decided it was best to lay everything out in the open, God knows this relationship had always thrived on honesty. He let his index tapping gently at the volume button, reeling you back from the fantasy of you and him in the morning after that had wrapped your mind in for the good part of the movie. 

“What’s wrong?” You asked, propping yourself up just enough to peer over at those handsome features, a small kiss to assure your soul that Junhoe was still very much here in the present. 

“Nothing, I just, there’s something on my mind that’s kind of bothering me.” He sighed, gently nudging for you to sit up before he too reluctantly peeling himself away from comfort and happiness. 

“Junhoe, you’re scaring me.” A frown already heavy on your lips as you crawled into his arms, settling in between his legs. Much to your surprise, your dear man simply heaved a soft chuckle, locking you in his arms before letting kisses rained down your cheeks. 

“I didn’t mean to scare you, I’m sorry.” He apologized with a big kiss to your lips, loving the way you only snuggled in closer. “It’s just, there’s still the issue of your resignation and how we’re going to tell everyone about us.”

“Oh… That.” You sighed, admittedly already forgotten about the technicality of it all, and honestly how could you not when Junhoe had given you the best first date of your life. “Well, I won’t be super thrill about it but…” Your words got him hook, intently listening to every breath and every idea. “If you’re worry about what they’ll say, I can always transfer to the smaller branch!” You did your best to be cheerful about it, to ease the weight off of his shoulders. But the thought of not being able to have lunch with him every day, that wasn’t a thought you were particularly happy about. “…And you don’t think it’s a good idea.” A drawn-out sigh accompanied with the biggest frown on his lips told you he wasn’t a fan either.

“Not being able to see you every day, plus sending you right back to Johnny…” He scoffed, mildly discontent that you’d be eating lunch every day with his rival instead.

“Oh, come on. Poor Johnny didn’t do anything wrong!” You laughed with a soft pat to his chest, though that only earned a protective hold around your entire body. 

“He kissed you! How is that nothing wrong?!” Borderline between a bear hug and bone crushing, Junhoe let playful giggle and endless claims to your heart falling. 

“On my forehead! And well, technically I was single then and he didn’t know we promised each other a date.” Refusing to part way with the niche in the crook of your neck, Junhoe only nuzzled in further at the prodding of your fingers into his side, eliciting harsh gasps and heavy laughter. “Baby!” 

“Okay, fine. I surrender!” Had it not for the backrest of the couch supporting his weight, junhoe would’ve already tumbled onto the ground, exhausted from laughter. “I know he didn’t do anything wrong, don’t worry. I just, I’m so used to seeing you every day, even if it’s just meeting and boring business jargons… something is better than nothing.” Reaching out, Junhoe let his hand cupping your cheek, a teasing smirk blossomed on his lips when you chased his retreating palm with your kisses. “I don’t care who say what about me, I’m worry about you. The last thing I need is for the gossip squad or whatever they’re call” Waving a dismissive hand, the thought of cracking down on company gossip once more plaguing his thoughts. “ I don’t want them discrediting everything you’ve worked so hard for as sleeping with the boss.” His eyes rolled so far back, Junhoe nearly got a glimpse of his brain scoffing at that phrase. He hated it, ‘sleeping with the boss’. It was a phrase that haunted his last name, a legacy that forever stained the honesty in his father and in him. He had lost count of the times his mom would sigh in discontent that yet another secretary, another supervisor was fired because in their eyes money was worth so much more than the happiness of a family, than their own moralities. He too had lost count of the times he’d glanced up at a meeting to see a seductive smirk, the tone they’d use on him, or how they’d undo the top button of their shirt, hiking their skirt up just a bit further before stepping into his office. Little did they all knew, he was watching, disgust at another attempt of furthering their career with the least amount of work. Junhoe wasn’t a hard to please boss, anyone in the company with a good work ethic would know that for raises weren’t a rare occurrent, even if a raise in rank was rarely given out. Yet there was no stopping the few that’d much rather take the short cut, shitting on the effort of thousands other. That wretched conversation he had overheard, sure it tickled his heart with aches that he was really so low in their eyes. But it pulverized his heart and crushed his soul to think of the implication that had on you. 

“To be quite frank with you, that night I was prepared for the worst the second I decided to follow you into that elevator. Yet when you had asked me for a date, the implication of what that meant for my future, as silly as it sounds, I thought about it. That night, I couldn’t stop thinking about how sweet you were and how amazing our date would be. But at the same time, that nagging in the back of my mind, to throw away everything I’ve done for a date, what they’d say... Even after everything that happened between us, all the pain, all the confusion, everything led me to one conclusion.” 

“What is it, sweetheart?” Junhoe let the warmth of his hand gently caressed comfort back into your soul, taking in all the happened, all that you went through. 

“No matter what I do, where I am, if they want to talk, they’ll talk. There’s nothing we can do about it and you know what, I don’t care!” Hands thrown up in the air, you shrugged away all the worries. 

“You don’t?” Your nonchalant attitude was giving his heart a boost of happiness, though that didn’t stop a surprise gasp from escaping his lips. 

“Yea! No fuck given!” Your excited grunt of victory got Junhoe grinning as if he had just won the lottery. “But I still might come to you and cry though if they get really mean… Is that okay?”

“I- Why are you so cute? Yes, of course that’s okay! You’re not allow to cry when I’m not there okay? That way I can give you hugs.” Your little request got his heart doing flips, bouncing off the wall of with joy. Suddenly all the pain of the past, all those lonely nights lying awake wondering if you were with someone else, if you were even thinking of him at all, that all vanished without a trace. It was as if this had always been his life. Weekdays filled with the adorable smiles you flashed him on passing by and the late hours sharing your thoughts over a dinner. Weekend would be times for amazing dates and time spent just enjoying being in each other’s arms. Everything felt so natural that Junhoe could hardly believe this was only the first real date you had gone on together. “Is it safe to assume I can now shred your resignation letter?” 

“Yes, assume so!”

The last knot in Junhoe’s heart finally untangled, leaving it free to float into the cloud nine of new love, true love. Though there was still the issue of appeasing the angry mother bear Irene, Junhoe was sure in time, she’ll come to understand the love he had for you. After so much heartache of the puppy love that was tainted by betrayal and a true love that never was, all Junhoe prayed for was to have someone to love and protect him the same way he’d dedicate his life to them. And even if he didn’t write true love off as something of a myth, a Hollywood creation to sell movie and the commercialism of Valentine’s day, he had submitted to the belief that it will never happen for him. Yet here you were, right in front of him with your arms snaking protectively around his body, the bliss of the first date that had yet to end still surrounding you both. You were so close, so, so close that he could still made out the way your lips had tasted so wonderfully minty-cherry and the way your heart beating so steadily against his chest. Junhoe got his hand tangled in your hair, fingers pressuring soft, satisfying groans from your lips. 

“Baby…” A hushed call for your attention left his lips but you couldn’t part way, letting your nose nudging into the soft skin of his neck still. “Y/n…” He called once more, this time earned a soft hum from your lips. 

The little grumble leaving your lips as you forced yourself away from the warmth he shared drawn out a chuckle from him. Yet as soon as your eyes met his, a smile instantly blossomed on your lips from the loving gaze he already had on you. The solace of a quiet night taking over your humble abode once more leaving the soft breaths echoing through the space as you both admired one another. Those days when the only smile shared was timid ones, full of uncertainties and reservation were long gone as you let yourself unashamedly studying, let your eyes caressed each handsome feature. He too, studying the way your eyes crinkled well before a smile could bloom on your lips. He adored how every time you’d get so lost in your own world, the softest, prettiest smile would spread on your lips and you wouldn’t even be aware of it. 

“I love you so much.” Junhoe sighed against your lips, reveling in the way your lips so soft, melting into his at the slightest pressure. 

“I love you.”

You replied simply, letting your arms hooking around his neck, pulling him closer. The happy ending neither of you had thought possible was finally happening and your hearts overwhelmed with joy. Now that the weight of hurtful words and restriction of boundaries had ceased to exist, your souls could finally enjoy the refreshing air of a new beginning without a single care in the world. It felt so much like those summer days spent by the beach, feeling the gentle coastal breeze toying with your hair. The sun shining so brightly, crisp and warm, instilling the most heavenly of delight in your heart as the refreshing waves of cool ocean water lapping at your feet. 

Yet the second Junhoe let his lips pressed against yours, all you could see was the vibrancy of autumn’s best leaves, fiery red and vivid yellow burning your souls with all his passion. It started out so gentle, soft lingering pecks, mulling over the taste, the plushness of each other’s lips as if soft breeze dancing amongst the colorful trees. 

With each tick of the clock, the innocent of new love soon devolving down the familiar road of roughness as lust returned, leaving you breathless as he bit down on your lower lips, tugging it in between his teeth. His touch grew firm, no longer was it the gentleness of shy autumn wind but the harshness of winter’s dark storm. His fingertips digging into your flesh, grabbing all he could but that did nothing to satisfy his craving of you. And though pants had grown heavy, frustration harden further with every touch, it was nothing of the abuse he had left the first night you had embarked on this insane adventure of the hearts. There was something more, rooted far deeper than either of could’ve imagine for each fleeting touch, each groan of each other’s names affected your bodies and souls in ways unfathomable. As his kisses grew sloppy, trailing down the lines of your jaw down to your collar bones, all thoughts vanished at the way he made you feel. It wasn’t just surface pleasure, neither did it stop at the volcano threatening to erupt in your core. You could feel the gratification within your soul, your mind transcending into a reality where nothing in the world could stop you from loving Koo Junhoe. Relenting all power over your senses, you let your hands ran free, touching, exploring every inch of skin he had exposed. When that proved to be a single drop of water in the desert of your thirst for him, you let your hands carding through his hair, pressuring pleasure into his scalp before abandoning that all together to shove them under his shirt. Sigh of relief left your lips as you clawed gently at the soft skin of his back, so warm under your fingertips. A soft chuckle vibrated through to your lips as his kiss slowed to barely a slow waltz, eyes blown, staring deep into your soul. Junhoe studied the way your eyes dazed, breaths erratic yet you couldn’t part way with him, chasing after the taste of his lips when he back away to give you air. 

“Baby, slow down. We have all night…” He whispered, hot breath fanning your cheek as he nibbled on your ear, electrifying every hair on your body to stand on its end. 

“I- fuck…” A sharp bite at the tender skin just below your ear left you aching, soft cusses falling from your lips from the newfound pleasure. “You’re wrong, you know.” A stammer of confusion left his lips, almost immediately he got his hands cupping your cheeks, searching for any sign of all that regret had settled in your heart. All he could find however, was your lustful gaze and a loving smile. “You have all my life, Koo Junhoe…” You sighed a reminder onto his lips, feeling a smile blossomed against your kiss. 

The emotional Heimlich you had just given him was far too great for Junhoe to handle, feeling his heart unravelling at each breath you heaved, each time your nails gently dragging down the length of his back. It was almost absentminded the way you grinded into him, letting yourself made up for the lost time, the lonely nights. Watching the way your senses unfurling into nothingness solidified that feeling of belonging in his heart. He belonged with you, here and always, and there was no reason why he should hold himself back from enjoying this fully. A sharp gasp stolen from your lips the second he let himself fully diving into you, hands grabbing harshly at the curve of your ass, massaging, gripping firmly as he pulled you right into him. 

“B-Baby, bedroom…” At the soft nudging of tip of his nose against your neck, you point down the hallway.  With one swift move, your strong man hoisted you up, fingers only digging deeper into the tender skin of your thighs, but you only let out a satisfied moan. Lips latching onto his neck, you nudge at the soft skin for permission, letting your tongue trailing down the vein so prominent along the honey tan skin. 

“Go for it.” He sighed softly against your hair, chasing the soft scent of your perfume, nostalgia rising in his heart. 

The very first time that softness of rose, mingling so perfectly with the vibrant spark of lemon had tickled his nose with its delight, you were nothing more than a name on a report. It must’ve been your very first solo meeting with the big boss for he could still see the nervousness in your smile, the way you were clawing your nailbeds raw. Admittedly, the first thought had crossed his mind was how adorable you were, the little soft giggle, a seemingly natural response for your nervousness, had Junhoe at the edge of his seat. Though he’d never fess up, he had a bit of fun with you that day, purposefully clearing his throat, sighing a bit more, even once or twice glancing up suddenly at your focused self only to watch you hopped off your seat a little bit each time. He could’ve sworn once, he even heard the tiniest yelp leaving your lips before that soft giggle echoed through the dead air of his office, brightening it up just a bit more with each second ticking pass. His killshot, perhaps tad bit overboard considering it had been your first time facing the big bad boss all on your own, he had waved you over, had you clarified a few parts of the report so snugly in his hands. You were so close, so, so close that he could hear the way your breathes slowed, heart stabilizing as you exhaled a sigh of relief when he had muttered a quiet “good job”. As he watched you disappearing through his door, another timid wave sent his way (Junhoe thought it was beyond cute that as nervous as you were, you’ve managed to muster up enough courage to wave at him), all he could think of was your buttery smooth scent still lingering, chasing his heart into a strange trance. 

Junhoe hissed a soft cuss when you let your teeth sink into his skin, gentle tongue lapping at the spot sweetly to sooth the pain. He hadn’t bothered fussing with the light as you both blindly crashed through the threshold of your room, far too enthralled in the possibility, the chance to finally love you properly.  Never mind the door slamming loudly or that darkness still very much surrounding you both, Junhoe let your body gently laid into the cushion of your bed before letting his weight securely, safely, and comfortingly resting atop yours. The distant pestering of the neon signs luring the busy world, bustling and loud just beyond your naked window noted for Junhoe to find you and Irene a better apartment but fuck, how your skin glowed so amazingly under the flashing colors this very second. Soft features and silky hair illuminated brilliantly by the vibrant pink and vivid blue, stark against the darkness of your surrounding as if you had just jumped out of the pages of those niche manga he loved to read so often in his youth. Though you weren’t crass nor bratty like the 2-D bad girl type goddesses he grew up wanting, craving all those lonely nights spent wasting away with his nose deep inside a book, you had the same air, an aura that would’ve made you one hell of a badass… You’re sweet, and innocent, yet there was not a single doubt in the world that you’d spit hell fire if needed to and nothing turned his heart on more. You were everything he ever wanted, and so much more… And he finally had you, heart, soul, and body too. His very own sinful angel. 

He watched you, your curious eyes diving deep into his soul as you both share a moment of content silent, letting yourselves a second to really soaked in the happy ending that was long time coming. Even if the state of his disheveled locks and your wrinkled dress bunching up messily nearly to your waist, there was nothing sinful about the content smiles blooming on your lips. You made it, you both made it and the happiness rising in your chests was nothing short of heaven. Soft breaths mingling, warmth etching its way deep into your skin with each passing of his thumb over your cheek. Junhoe studied your expression as he had so many times before yet this time it was unfathomable the familiarity of each curve, each bend. It was a familiarity that even if you took it all away, he’d still recognized you just as you are, and it wouldn’t take away either his feeling when he sees your face. But it was a familiarity that was so special, his heart was currently leaping out of his chest, snuggling gently against your own because it was the familiarity that came along with the permission to call you his girlfriend. he want to showered you in endless love, to whisper it into your ears all time of the day but as he shifted to place a soft kiss at the tip of your nose,  a soft moan tore from your lips and Junhoe was once more reminded the reason why his hand was still gripping tightly on your hip, and the soft ember burning on his collar bone. 

“Junhoe…” You groaned his name and he lost all his self-control, letting kisses peppering against the line of your jaws.  

“Yea, baby?” He whispered, nibbling at the softness of your ear. 

“Y-Your jeans…” It was only now he had realized just how flushed his left knee was against your throbbing core, rough material creating the most perfect friction for your neediness. 

“Is it too much for you, sweetheart?” He feigned a pout, delighted at the way you mewled softly in agreement. A strange comfort settling in his heart for the last time you were pinned underneath his body, pain and harshness was all you knew. Even though he had barely nudged his knee a millimeter, your body jerked upward, nails sinking down on the curves of his shoulders. 

“I, it’s so sudden…” Your sigh lost when he tilted his head to place a small kiss on your collar bone, giving you all the right angles to admire the small bruise you had nibbled onto his skin. 

“I’m sorry, baby… I’ll be more careful.” His action quite the opposite of his words as once more the rough jeans rubbed up against the nearly bare nothing of your underwear, sending a wave of pleasure rippling through your veins. When he had pulled away, your pupils were blown and a heavy pants steeling in your chest. A dazed smile tugged onto your lips as your finger gently caressing the small splotches of red and purple etched on his sweaty skin. Confusion playing hide and seek behind that lustful gaze, before he leaned back, watching himself on the reflective surface of your window. The moment your amazing artwork had met his eyes, his heart exploded with endearing lust, something he hadn’t thought was possible before you… Then again, he thought lots of things were unfathomably impossible before you had graced his life with all your wonders. 

“Already marking your territory, hmm?” He dove back in, lips latching once more on the soft span of your neck, fingers toying gently with the band of your lace underwear. 

“Just a tiny reminder, so you know I’m always here.” 

Junhoe wasn’t sure why but the feeling of soft lace under his fingertips, the way your arms were snaking around his body reminded him of the little emerald green piece of fabric still very much residing on his bed side table. 

“You might think this strange, but I’ve got your underwear still, beside my bed. It comforts me, knowing that no matter what happened in the future, I got one night with you. And if pain was all that I had brought upon myself, then I will relish that one night for the rest of my life.” He went on when nothing but that soft giggle he loved so dearly melted into the air. 

“Well you can take all my undies if that mean that I can reassure you any time of day that I’m going to be haunting you for the rest of your life. But that might mean I’m going commando all the time.” You jest with a gentle touch to his nose, and suddenly Junhoe forgotten once more just the sinful thoughts he had in his mind mere seconds ago. 

“Goodness me! I don’t know how much pleasure that would bring me, love, knowing you’re wandering about your days completely naked underneath, surrounding by perverted men.” Junhoe soared through cloud nine when your response was simply to pull him down onto your chest, open mouth kiss easing his mind back to where you needed him most this very second. Desperate calls of his name echoed through the silent space, dark and comforting, yet with each second ticking, each needy swing of your hips pushing yourself further into the rough material taut over his thigh, staining it with your slick core. The blackness of your room was slowly driving him insane. He needed to see you, to see the lust clouding your eyes, and the breaths huffing roughly from your lips. Blindly reaching for the lamp beside your bed, he tugged at the switch with a rough grunt of frustration that unraveled the last bit of your patient. Hands harshly pulling at the hem of his shirt, Junhoe let out a groan of relief when you clawed down the length of his back, teeth grazing against the sharpness of his jaw. Each moan, each touch like another veil over his mind, foggy with how much he wanted to tear you apart, to take you for all you’ve got. There had been a strange sense of urgency the last time he had you under his fingertips, the last time he had you at his beck and call. He knew he was on a timer, and even with the promise of a future date guarding over the lustful night, there was no certainty he’d again have this opportunity. So, he took all you could, while you were so lost in the fluidity of his hips, Junhoe begged for you to hold out, demanded for the night to last much further than it should’ve. 

Yet now, feeling your desperate kisses, the way your body molding so perfectly against his, knowing he had all the time in the world, well there was no better pleasure existed this very second. He had all the privacy he needed to love you in every way he could. The blaring street life permeating through your closed windows meant that there was no need for him to stiffen your moans. Though, the sight of you writhing beneath him, silent gasps choking from the hand he had snug over your throat as he lost himself in you, that was also something beyond all of his imagination. In that moment, time, and space, Junhoe just wanted to give you all that you deserved, all that he wanted to but couldn’t, far too lost in the façade of the big boss to give you. In many ways too, he needed this, needed to know that he could truly make love to you without any inhibition, without anything holding him back, to finally make this dream of his true. 

 It was only now that he grown angry at the dress still covering your beautiful body away from his eyes, impatiently tugging at your straps until they snapped under the power of his love elicited a small yelp surprised from your lips. The neckline of your dress tugged down to your elbow and the hem pushed far past your hips. Junhoe took a second, backing away to admire the beautiful mess he had just created. Your lips now bruised and redden from the endless bites he had sunk into their pilowy-softness. The dress you had chosen so carefully for your very first date now nothing but a beautiful memory, tattered and wrinkled. Lips parting as he took in the sight of the delicate lace of your underwear soaked, sticking to your core and barely serving its function any longer for the roughness of his fingers had been toying at it. Even as vulnerable as your position was, breasts bare, body on display for his viewing yet not a bit of shame flustered through your mind. You loved the way he was basking in the view, enjoying the way your arms reaching out, calling for him to return and share with you his warmth. 

“Like what you see?” You whispered, hot breath fanning the shell of his ears as you tugged away his shirt. 

“You have no idea…” 

The last bit of fabric shielding your body finally ripped away, nothing left to hide your fragile body but the dirty bundle of fabric that was your underwear, and him. Wet trail lining the path down to your breasts, he wasted no time before letting himself a taste, tongue lapping gently at your harden nub. 

“You’re so amazing, baby… I can’t get enough.” The words escaping through his gritted teeth as his hand squeeze down on your breasts, eyes nearly rolling back into his skull from the sensation so wonderful. He nuzzled once more into your neck, nipping at the soft curve of your breasts before letting himself be free of his clothes, your needy hands tugging desperately at the fabric. It was your turn to bask in all his glory, magnificently sculpted and perfect, all for you. It felt so much like that night, yet so different. His body, just as amazing and godlike as you had remembered but there was now a softness, a touch of sweetness as Junhoe restraint himself, all for the sake of your enjoyment as he hovered above your body. You let your eyes raked down the soft skin of his torso, shamelessly admiring the hard length rocking gently against his tight abs. You were drooling, drooling over your man and all the things he’ll do to you in just minutes time just as you should, just as you deserved all along. 

You wondered how, if you ever really had it in you to be patient or was this unbearable burn to be destroy by the man you love had been a product of Koo Junhoe. You reached for him, hard length hot under your fingertips, twitching in excitement as you let your thumb run over the wetness dripping from his tip. Your movement languid, lazily trailing down, feeling each vein prominent against your skin as a small cuss hissed through your lips. It seemed to satisfy him, how obsessed you were, how completely enthralled you had been for his dick that you were nearing the point of salivating all over yourself. Your eyes unwavering, focusing on his length and his length only as you gently squeeze down, applying just enough pressure to send Junhoe doubling over onto you yet not enough to hurt him… To take away all his will. His knees wobbling, the arms he had caging your head too shivering with each stroke of your hand over his throbbing length. Junhoe was doing all he could, giving his all because he wanted tonight to be about you. He took all he wanted that fateful night, took you for all you had and more. It was only right you get to do the same. As much as he’d love to let his weight crashed down on your body, to let his fingers gripping into the soft skin of your thighs as he forced them open to taste you, to satisfy his own need to see you cum, over and over again, Junhoe needed to put his own wants aside for just a little longer. He had his chance to explore your body, mapped it in his mind so well, he knew it like the back of his hand for he had studied every inch of your body that night as he reigned over you. His wish was for you too, to do the same. So instead, he let his eyes fluttering shut, rocking gently into your hand as you peppered kisses along his chest. 

“Baby, lay down. Relax…” So far from the harsh demand he had broke you down with, your wishes felt like feather against his skin, gentle as you tug his lips in between your teeth. He complied, just like the good boyfriend he wanted so desperately to be even if history spoke nothing of the sort. He let his head crashing into the softness of your pillow, taking in the puff of fresh scent, of you clouding his mind, forcing his eyes shut. Yet just as soon as his lashes had the chance to tickle his skin, his eyes were widened in shock when you let yourself sunk down onto his length. His hands gripping harshly over the soft skin of your thighs, a ragged gasp ripped from his throat as he took in the sight of you.

“Fuck” He groaned a cuss, unable to bear any longer the sinful sight of you with your eyes rolling into the back of your skull, hair draping messily over your breasts and shoulders as your head lulled sideway in pure bliss. 

“Sorry, sorry…” You rushed out a few apologies, but they soon melted away into incoherent groans as shivers running through your body. Junhoe couldn’t tear his eyes from your body, shuddering in pleasure, the way your breasts shook ever so slightly every time you had attempted to move only to give out under the overwhelming gratification of being filled to the brim. “I- I couldn’t wait anymore…”

“It’s alright, baby. Whatever you want…” His words lost in the gasp you had just stolen from his lips. Junhoe felt his toes curling, chest tightening when you began to ease yourself into a gentle groove. Hands bracing against his chest, you dragged yourself slowly forward, feeling his length slipping away nearly entirely before sinking yourself back once more. Your thighs gripping his body, nails sinking into the smooth skin of his chest, you had forgotten just how full you’d be with Junhoe. Your gentle rocking soon grew erratic, heart beating to its own drum as your knees began to burn, dull aching settling into your abdomen. Junhoe snaked his hand onto your bouncing breasts, reveling in the way you were fighting your own exhaustion to chase the high so close to achieving. He couldn’t help but let a smile breaking over his trembling bliss watching you take charge, feeling you taking all he had to give. 

“Let me help you.” Junhoe whispered into the kiss when you had fallen over, lips pressing against his hastily, fingertips digging into his biceps. He waited, waited until you nodded fervidly against his cheek before letting himself thrusting upward, stealing all the moans from your lips as your body shook uncontrollably. He held you close, feeling your sweet nectar dripping until the skin of his legs. Painfully hard, his desire only burned brighter when you continued to grind into his length despite the blinding orgasm he had just given you, despite too the heavy breaths hot against his chest. When you finally found the strength to peel your body away from his, to abandon the comfort his arms given you, a pout tugged onto his lips when he felt himself slipped out of you. Yet the very next second, Junhoe was once more chased into heaven when you settled between his legs, fingers finding themselves snugly along his length. Your movement slow, enticing, calling for the small grunts whispered from his lips before placing the tiniest kiss at the tip. When you were certain that his entire attention was on you, watching through his half-lidded eyes, heavy with lust, your lips parted, engulfing his entire length in one swift movement. Junhoe found himself curling over in pleasure so intense, for a split second he considered abandoning all his will and fisting your hair in his rough fingers. He thought about it, on the brink of throwing you onto the bed, hand pushing your face into your pillow as you drown in your own spit, slamming himself into you with all his strength and fuck until you couldn’t remember your own name, fuck until his heart was satisfied. Yet as his eyes met yours, so delicate and sweet despite nearly choking on his dick just seconds before, Junhoe forced himself back onto the bed. Hands gripping into your bedsheet, endless cusses and raspy moans melted into the air as you let your tongue ran down the length of his dick, memorizing the way he tasted, the feeling of his skin against your taste buds. Jaws aching, you inhale a deep breath before sinking down all the way, letting your nose buried into his pubic hair as Junhoe let out a choked sob, jutting further into your throat. He wasn’t ready, Junhoe had thought he was prepare for this moment, for the moment when you were finally his, when he could make love to you, real love and not the selfish fucking he had dealt onto your body on the night that had started it all. But clearly, he was in way over his head for after the long month drought, you felt like heaven under his skin. Each touch, each moan you shared with him like the best drug money could buy and you were willing to give it all to him for the small price of his time and love. He hadn’t thought far ahead, definitely not far enough to foresee you straddling him as you chased your own piece of paradise. Definitely not at all for the loving gaze peering back up as you swallowed his entire length, hot and painfully hard. How could you be so innocently loving yet done to him the most sinful thing, making him feel all the ways that would plunge him into the fire of hell if he were to die this very second. As these thoughts enveloped Junhoe in its own kind of bliss, he hadn’t realized it but he was so close, hand once more fisting your hair as he fuck into mouth and you took it like the good girl he knew you were. But this wasn’t what he wanted, not right now. Any other night and he’d love to cum down your throat, watch on as you choked on his seed, cheeks redden and heavy pants settling in your chest from the lack of oxygen. Any other night but tonight. 

“Sweetheart, slow down… I-“ He heeded a warning, a warning that was ignored as you continued to revel in the feeling of him. Junhoe couldn’t part way with the pleasure blessed unto him but he wasn’t done yet, not yet ready for the night to end so he let his hand cupped your jaws. He said nothing, letting his eyes conveyed all his feeling as he pulled you up into a kiss. He nearly swallowed you whole, already missing the way your lips felt against his as Junhoe laid you down onto your bed once more. No matter how fast his lips move, how skillful, or how hard you tried to mold yourself against his needy self, neither of you could get enough of the other. Junhoe left wet kisses trailing down toward your breast, letting his tongue flicked gently at your harden nipple while his hand massaged the other. He pulled away harshly, aweing at the way your nipples perked up under his ministration. A sharp moan swallowed up by his lips as Junhoe thrusted himself into you without warning, unable to take any longer the calling of his name or the way you looked so much like heaven. 

“Sorry, love. I- Fuck!” The thought in his mind muddled as you wrapped your legs around his waist, giving him all the access, all the angles he needed to guide the night into the best kind of high. “I really want to taste you but… I can’t wait anymore.”

“We have all the time in the world, baby.” Once more your reminder that you were now his, to love, to hold, to fuck, to worship left his heart in a shamble. The happiness searing his heart only fueled further the desire burning with each thrust he dealt unto your weary self. Pupils blown and eyes nearly to dreamland, Junhoe loved how amazing you looked under him. Lips parted, the soft moans you mewled out like music to his ears. He was mesmerized, by the bounce of your breasts, and by the desperate grip of your fingers. Your hair matted to your skin, a soft sheen of sweat glowing ethereally, even more brilliant, even more like those manga girls his teenage-self had fantasized about for so many nights. But you were real, you were real, and you were his and he will never ever get sick of hearing himself say that. As that familiar high pitch whines melting into the air, he knew you were close. So, Junhoe let himself falling onto your body, holding onto you so tightly as his thrust grew erratic, hips snapping faster as he moaned into your lips.

“Cum with me, baby.” He whispered, to which you nodded madly, fervidly as your fingers digging into his sweaty locks, gripping on so tightly as you let out a last scream of his name. Your body convulsing underneath his, continue to ride out your high as Junhoe chased his own. Cuss after cuss, he called for your name, once then twice. Then when words no longer forming in his mind, he let deep grunts of lust falling as you coaxed him toward his own ending. One last thrust and you could feel him filling you up, hot and sticky, your own nectar mixing with his leaking with each slowing thrust as you squeeze down, milking him for all he got. His movement soon ceased as Junhoe collapsed beside you, exhausted, a blissful smile blossomed on his lips when you crawled into his arms, never mind the beads of sweat dripping down his body. For a long while, neither of you said much, letting the ragged breath slowing and heart calming as you basked in the cool air blowing through the window Junhoe had hastily flung open in need of fresh air. 

“Stay the night… Please?” Your voice timid, begging, desperate for him to hold you, for him to be here when you open your eyes when dawn come. 

“Of course.” He whispered onto your forehead, lips painful, bleeding but it was all worth it. 

As you snuggled closer to his bare chest, so close that he could feel your heart, erratic still from the bliss you had both just shared with one another, Junhoe let his finger digging into your dampen locks, feeling you so hot against his skin. Arms drawing you so much closer, he let the drowsiness that had been gently caressing at his sticky, sweat sheen skin lulled him toward dreamland. Though for once in his life, the promises reality was offering outweigh anything the sandman had to offer and he tried, he really did try to force his eyes open to gaze down at the sleepy form snuggling so close in his embrace. But the second he had seen the content smile spreading on your lips as you muttered a sleepy goodnight, Junhoe let himself drifted away, happy and gratified. 

The next second consciousness had called out to the well-rested CEO, he could feel the morning sun so warm against his bare skin and a strange sense of serenity, contentment delighted in his chest. He had yet given into the calling of the bright morning, stubborn still as he squeezed his eyes shut, tugging his blanket close. Yet as the blaring of the third car alarm that had gone off in the short fifteen minutes since reality had decided to slowly lulled him back into its arm, the young CEO suddenly felt out of place. His eyes forced open and for a second, his mind blanked as he took in the unfamiliar surroundings, of his own nakedness. Barely a thin blanket draped across his tone body, panic slowly eating away at his consciousness, vulnerable for the world to see. Junhoe propelled himself off the stiff bed, scrambling for his phone as his eyes simultaneously searched for any piece of clothing, any sign that he had been kidnapped and held for ransom. Pants hastily pulled over his body, he continued searching, searching for any weapons, anything at all that would promise he’d see another sunrise. Just a second before his own heart could work itself into a terminal stupor, his eyes had caught sight of the soft fabric of your dress, dormant still in the spot where he had so carelessly abandoned it the night before. Heart erratic still but a smile already spreading solace back into his rattled self as the memories of the most wonderful first date slowly came back to life. It was only now that he had noticed the many trinkets laid across your vanity table, blushes and lipsticks strewn about. Junhoe stared at the many dresses draped across the chair just beside the door and his heart swelled thinking of just how much time you had put into readying yourself for him. 

Just beyond the still closed door of your bedroom, soft humming and gentle rattles permeated through. And though he loved hearing you, Junhoe was all the more adamant about getting a better place for both you and Irene, one he hoped to have a bit more privacy to love you completely and uninhibited. If not because of all the love he had for you, then definitely for the sake of his company for two of his best workers to have a decent night of sleep without blaring horn and sounds of love, or from the shrieking he had heard the night before as he walked down the hallway leading to your apartment, maybe even murder, leaking through. Carefully, he tiptoed his way into the shared space, mentally thanking Irene for giving him all the time and solitude he needed to be with you, no need for restraint nor consideration. Perhaps the adrenaline of the night before still coursing through his veins, perhaps the nervousness of finally knowing what laid beyond the happily ever after he had so long yearned for, Junhoe can’t help the hammering of his heart as he inched closer to you. An inexplicable craving, desperation to have you in his arms once more even if you had just spent an entire peaceful night right beside him. Your sweet hum echoed through the quietness of a Sunday morning, delicate as the scent of breakfast warped him into the fantasy he had long dreamt of… A fantasy of being home, of being love, and of being a family. Junhoe continued his quest to search for your love, shuffling his way toward the kitchen where you busied yourself over the boiling heat of the stove. Naked still, with nothing more but the looseness of his flannel to shield you away from the prying eyes of the world, he felt so wonderfully domestic, even more so than the dinner and sleepover of the night before. He let himself a second to admire how effortless you were, the easiness in your steps in and the way you command the various pots and pans to bend to your will. You were so beautiful, even as early as it was, even with the strange way your hair had unfurled itself onto your shoulders. A kiss on your hair, Junhoe let his arms woven itself around your waist, squeezing tight as he rested his head on your shoulder, calm as you whispered a sweet good morning. 

Junhoe couldn’t imagine a more perfect morning, or anywhere else he’d rather be than this very second. Being here with you, sharing a bed now sharing the amazing food you had spent so much time and love into creating, it was the beyond his imagination for it was something he was once so sure could never happen for someone like him. Yet you were here, with your kind smile and warmth, showing him what it was like to belong, to be loved. Junhoe knew he was nowhere close to the day when he’d get down on one knee and ask you to let him have your forever, but for once in his life, he felt no rush. Not to say that thought of waiting by the alter as you float down the aisle in the most beautiful dress doesn’t send him into a blissful paradise. Or that the image of you round and waddling as you both await the arrival of your first child isn’t his fantasy now that the one he had of you being his was finally realized. Of course, he wanted all of that, wanted all of you. But if the past few weeks of heartache and absolute terror had taught him anything, it was to be patient. So, he’ll be patient and savor each second of the journey you’ll take him on. Junhoe will commit every smile and every fight to his heart, let it be the foundation that this love will grow on as you both grow old together. The future is never certain, but being here with you on a lazy Sunday afternoon sharing a homemade meal and vibrant conversation, Junhoe was sure with all his heart that this was his new future.

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A/n: SO! Here it is, finally finished after what felt like 10 decades since I posted the first part. Thank you for your interest in this series, and in this tiny blog of mine. 

[pohpmicroblog]

20: Beautiful Noona Who Stole His Heart | Koo Junhoe Fanfic

He knocked again. “Chaerim-ah, are you okay in there?” Nothing. “I’m coming in.” He said louder. #kpop #ikon #Fanfic

“What’s taking you so long?” Kwangseok asked, standing outside of the bathroom door. Chaerim never took too long to shower, so it worried him when it had been thirty minutes and the shower was still running. He knocked again. “Chaerim-ah, are you okay in there?” Nothing. “I’m coming in.” He said louder.

He slowly opened the door and glanced towards the running shower.

“Chaerim!”        …