#last game in stripes i need everyone who has ever had that though to knock on wood and spit that shit OUT right the fuck now. NOWWWWWWWWWW.

[chasedeys]

https://vt.tiktok.com/ZS6DqqjKE/

😭❤️‍🔥

the way he fuckjsing STUDTTEREDDDDRD MIKE BROWNNNN DUKE TOSSBIN WHOEVER THE FUCKKKKKK WHEN I CATCH YOUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU

i can't do this.

[taestefully-in-luv]

Always You | JJK (Six)

Summary: you and Jungkook have been best friends since freshmen year of college, there’s a lot of unsaid feelings and tension but neither make a move. what happens when his friend Taehyung (also your crush) needs a fake girlfriend?

Pairing: Jungkook x Female reader, slight Taehyung x Reader

Genre: friends to lovers, idiots to lovers, slight slow burn, roommate au, college au, SMUT (starting ch2), fluff, angst (in later chapters) slight crack, lots of drama

Word Count: 18.3k

Warnings: Swearing, alcohol consumption, sexual tension (!!!), mention of drugs, mention of threesomes, mention of erection, grinding in sleep, car sex, riding, heated make out, hickeys, light hair pulling, light spanking

Notes: Not entirely sure how I feel about this chapter to be honest but here it is regardless! I hope you guys enjoy it:) ALSO those teaser pics from today!!! Anyway feel free to send an ask if you want to be added to the taglist or just want to chat about the story:)

Taglist: @mooniyooni @thisartemisnevermisses @giadalin @kookiebunny097 @cosmosjk @moonchild1 @just-jeon @anpanman-sonyeondan @starlight-night0 @yessii-i @apollukee @mikasaredscarf1 @kaye-rosales @bunnyjeonjk @dyriddle @seagulljk @hass-mich-los @peachy-skz0325 @wonusbitch @not-your-lion @flowersgirl02 @justinetingball @fiantomartell

© taestefully-in-luv

Previous---Next

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

The week drags on slowly and horribly, Monday you had a raging migraine that just wouldn’t go away. Tuesday you were late for your job and were scolded for it. Wednesday you spilled your black coffee all over your white blouse. And today, Thursday, you started your period. This week could not get any worse. Oh wait, yes it can—you just remembered you promised Jungkook you would attend his get together.

You hope things won’t be awkward with Nick…Jungkook has assured you that things are cool and Nick isn’t mad about what happened.

Jungkook 5:15pm

Hey :) so, I was thinking you could bring that 16% wine we always drink?

Jungkook 5:50pm

It starts at 7 but you can come earlier if you want

Jungkook 6:00pm

Or you don’t have to,..it was just a suggestion.

Y/N 6:02pm

I’ll be there at 7.

Jungkook 6:02pm

Ok cool :) I can’t wait to hang out.

You click your phone off, groaning into your pillow. Your cramps are fucking killer and you want to die. You look to your nightstand to see your water and pain killers, you reach for them and swallow them down. Hopefully this helps.

You decide to start getting ready, you settle on some jeans and your favorite striped sweater. Like, who are you trying to impress?

You hear your phone buzzing from your bed and you hurry to answer it.

“Hello?”

“I’m outside whore.”

“Kay be out in a sec.”

You hang up your phone, stuffing it in your back pocket. You gather your things and do one last look in the mirror—casual but cute.

“Holly! They’re here!”

You two rush down to the parking lot where Jimin is parked, Trina and Holly sit in the backseat while you occupy the passenger seat.

“You ready?” Jimin smirks.

~~~~~~

Before you know it, Jimin is knocking on Jungkook and Nick’s front door.

“By the way, I still can’t believe you didn’t who nick was…”

“I never come over here! Jungkook usually comes to mine…” Jimin answers in pout.

The door swings open and there stands Nick, in all his hot glory.

“Hey Nick…” you say, avoiding eye contact but Nick is chipper as can be as he nods at you and everyone else.

“Hey Jungkook! y/n is here!” he calls behind him.

“I mean, we’re here too but go off I guess.” Jimin’s mutters from beside you.

The four of you walk into the apartment, Jungkook still nowhere to be seen.

The small place is filled with maybe 5 other people, you are quick to nod at everyone in greeting. You catch Jungkook leaving his bedroom with Vanessa following closely behind him, you can’t help but roll your eyes. Jungkook finds you staring at him and he grins, walking closer to you and your friends.

“y/n!” he goes in for a quick, unexpected hug.

“Hi.”

“Jimin!” he hugs Jimin too, “and Hey Tr—”

“Go fuck yourself.”

“Yup, nice to see you too Trina.” Jungkook smiles anyway, “And you must be Holly?” he extends his hand out for her to shake. She takes it while smiling awkwardly.

“I’m glad you guys came!” Jungkook scratches the back of his head, “This is uh, this is Vanessa.” He introduces the girl standing beside him.

Vanessa is pretty…really pretty actually. She has short black hair, it looks soft and sleek. She is taller than you, her height almost rivaling Jungkook’s. But she is still smaller than him.

“Hi everyone.” She says flatly.

She doesn’t look interested in meeting any of you, or interested in any of the people here. She grabs her phone from her bag and starts scrolling through it as Jimin introduces everyone.

“And this is y/n.” he finally finishes, gesturing towards you.

At this, Vanessa looks up from her phone to eye you up and down, “Right.” Is all she says, then her eyes are back on her screen.

Wow, quite the charmer. You look at Jungkook whose eyes are already on you, and he chuckles nervously.

“Well, did you bring that wine?” he asks you.

You pull it from the bag you are holding and hand it to him, “Here…” his hand goes to reach it and his fingers brush against yours and you shudder.

“Umm, I’ll pour us all a glass.” He takes the bottle, faces Vanessa and heads toward the kitchen while Vanessa follows him. You watch as they disappear into the other room and you release a breath.

“That’s the bitch he’s fucking?” Trina asks bluntly, one eyebrow raised in question. “She didn’t even look at us!”

“Let’s be nice,” Holly says.

“Fucking fine.” Trina rolls her eyes. Hard.

You can’t help but agree though, Vanessa seems…you don’t know, but why would Jungkook like her? She seems rude, and uninterested in literally everything.

“You’re never going to get over her like this, you know?” Vanessa continues to look at her screen as she speaks to Jungkook. “You’re just hurting yourself.” Her eyes dart towards her glass being poured, “I don’t even like this wine, I told you I wanted the other one.”

“It’s y/n’s favorite.” He exhales deeply as he pours more glasses.

“Oh right, so is this how it’s going to be?” Vanessa clicks her phone off and slides it in her purse, “Now that she’s back in your life everything is going to be about her?”

“No, Vanessa…” he looks up from the bottle, “We’re still…” he gestures between their bodies.

“Right.” She says, tapping her fingers against the counter, “Totally.”

“So what game shall we play?” Jungkook sits down between you and Vanessa, his body vibrating in excitement. (How you and Vanessa ended up sitting next to each other in the first place? You don’t know. But thankfully Jungkook saves the day.)

“How bout never have I ever!” Jimin winks at everyone, “It’s always a good way to get to know new people.”

“Fine.” Trina says with a smirk

“Yeah, I’m down!” Nick says, high fiving his same bro who believes in aliens.

Various ‘yes’s are heard around the room and you nod your head too.

“If you’ve done it, you drink, that’s the rule.” Jimin states “I’ll go first. Never have I ever done coke.”

A few people you aren’t well acquainted with groan and take a sip of their drinks, Jimin looks at you as he passes his turn.

“Uh,” you look up at the ceiling, “Never have I ever had a threesome.”

You notice every single one of your friends taking a drink, Jungkook included. Well, you shouldn’t be surprised. Damn, even Holly? Are you just lame?

Jungkook goes next, “Never have I ever ate ass!” Jimin raises his glass and he take a gulp.

Everyone’s laughing and having a good time, the game continues on for several rounds, everyone drinking at different times but everyone collectively getting drunker.

The turn is back on you…”Never have I ever cheated on a college exam.”

“Fucking liar!” Jungkook snickers beside you, “You copied like half my answers in bio!”

“Oh true.” You say nonchalantly, “Never mind. Jungkook your turn.”

Jungkook thinks for a few moments, “Never have I ever not made a girl come.” He smirks.

“Okay ladies man, we get it, fucking whore.” Jimin sticks his tongue out.

Next is Vanessa’s turn, she tilts her head side to side thinking on what she wants to say.

“Never have I ever had sex with my best friend.” She says, her voice smooth and silky.

You choke on your spit when you process her words, your head snaps to Jungkook’s. He’s already looking at you, debating if he should drink—especially in front of all your friends.

He watches in horror as you begin to raise the glass to your lips, your eyes never leaving his. He raises his own glass to his mouth and takes a sip as you do the same and the room goes quiet.

Jimin watches the two of you, his eyes widening in shock as he puts two and two together.

“Wait wait wait.” Trina speaks up, “Did you two…?” she looks between you two before her eyes settle on you, “When?”

“Yeah, when?” Jimin asks quietly, sounding betrayed.

“Can we not do this right now?” you plead.

Jungkook is nodding his head in agreeance, “Yeah guys….this is a bit…” he glances over at Vanessa who is quietly sipping her wine, she blinks at Jungkook a few times before taking another sip.

“So you two have fucked!” Nick says, totally oblivious. Fucking Nick.

“It was a really long time ago, it meant nothing…” you save while striking a chord in Jungkook, he clenches his jaw. “Well, it meant nothing for only some of us,” he grits out. You feel a pang in your chest. What does he mean by that?

“Okay, would if we all take a moment to relax…” Holly intervenes. She stands up, taking her glass and Trina’s glass to the kitchen.

“It’s getting late anyway.” You stand too, you look at Trina and Jimin with apologetic eyes and nod towards the door, “Let’s get going.”

“Wait y/n,” Jungkook stands up as well, grabbing on to your arm. “Can we talk for a moment?” he motions towards the balcony. “Please.”

You roll your eyes but go along with it, you follow him out the back on to the balcony. It’s a small space, forcing you to stand somewhat close to Jungkook.

“I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have said that last thing…” he begins, “You were just trying to save the conversation….right?”

“Right.” You agree. You fold your arms over your chest, you want this day to be over with.

“Other than this last bit…I had a lot of fun…you know…everyone hanging out. It was nice,” Jungkook shakes his head a bit, his hair falling all over his face, covering his big doe eyes. You can’t help but reach up and tuck some wild strands away so you could see him properly.

He freezes when you do that.

“Oh sorry…habit.”

“No no its okay, I was just surprised is all.” He smiles, and you feel your heart glow.

“Vanessa seems…” you don’t know why you bring her up right now but you do.

“Nice.”

Jungkook bites down on his bottom lip, looking at you with serious eyes,

“You don’t like her.”

He chuckles lightly, “I still know when you’re lying.”

“Sorry,” you laugh into your palm, “She just doesn’t seem all that interested in anyone.”

“Including me?”

“Kind of…sorry.” You look up at him, “It’s none of my business.”

“Well, you’re my friend so I value your opinion.”

“Okay then…I just can’t seem to find what you might like about her…” Your honest nature isn’t something Jungkook isn’t use to, but he still feels defensive.

“Well, you don’t know her.”

“Do you?”

He opens his mouth to answer but falls short of a response. He stuffs his hands into his front pockets of his jeans and lets out a small groan.

“Can we go one day without fighting?” he whispers.

“Sorry.” You offer a half ass apology. “Jimin and the rest are probably waiting for me so—”

“Wait…” he grabs your wrist and pulls you closer to him, “Can I hug you? Since I have to ask now.”

“If I say no?”

“Then I will probably cry myself to sleep.”

“Well, we can’t have that can we?”

“So that’s a yes?”

You look up into Jungkook’s endearing eyes and nod your head yes, he doesn’t waste another second before he’s wrapping his arms around you and engulfing you in a sweet embrace. He smells like his laundry detergent and his natural scent, the combo making you dizzy—as usual. You finally return the hug, your own arms circling around his waist. You feel him inhale you and you can’t help but do the same…you missed this. You missed his touch—his warmth. You missed him.

“I missed you too.”

Oh, did you say that out loud?

“Yes you did.” He chuckles into your neck. his hot breath hitting your skin making you shudder.

“I missed you so much.” He whispers into your hair, his words almost getting lost in your locks.

“Then why did you replace me so quickly?” you whisper into his chest, you feel his heart beat faster than before.

“I don’t like her, Jungkook.” You admit.

“Please just give her a chance…for me, please.” He exhales into your neck before nuzzling further.

“Do you like her?” you brace yourself for the answer, you grip on to his shirt, bunching up the material in your hands.

“Yes.” He tightens his hold on you, “but, it’s complicated.”

You pull back from him, “Wait…you really do like her? Oh…” you drop your arms from his body.

“y/n…This is hard for me. She’s the only thing distracting me from…” he gulps, “Things.”

You take a step back, confused.

“Things?” you scoff, “What aren’t you telling me Jungkook?”

“Don’t worry about it.” He whispers, his hands still rest on your waist. He pulls you closer again, “I’m working on it.” He looks into your eyes and you can’t help but stare at his lips as he licks them.

“How hard are you working on it?” you wrap your hands around his middle again, stepping closer to him.

“I don’t…know…” he breathes out erratically. His eye becoming half lidded as he stares down at you, “I….dont …know….” He repeats in a daze.

Your hands travel up his back until your grabbing on to his hair, using this to tilt his head down gently.

“You’ll tell me eventually, won’t you?” you angle your head upwards, he slowly begins to lean down, his eyes shutting as he leans in closer and closer. You part your lips slightly waiting in anticipation for his lips to find yours.

“You’re so fucking unfair…” You feel Jungkook’s whisper hit your lips as he begins closing the distance.

Then the door fucking opens, you and Jungkook jumping apart at the sudden intrusion.

“y/n are you ready?” Jimin looks between you two, he eyes you suspiciously before looking at you expectantly.

“Right, yeah.” You look at Jungkook who is as red as a fucking cherry. He scratches his head with one hand and uses to the other to usher you inside. Were you and Jungkook about to…? Holy shit. What has gotten into you?

Before you go inside you turn around to face him, “Maybe we can talk about this later?”

“Uh, maybe.” Jungkook looks at the floor as you speak to him, he sways from one foot to another. “See you later y/n.”

~~~~

“Fucking spill it.” Trina spits out once you four are in the car. She aggressively puts on her seatbelt as Jimin turns on the car but refuses to drive anywhere until you talk.

“Can this wait til we’re home?” you whine, putting on your own seatbelt.

“I agree with y/n, Trina. Let’s wait…” Holly’s troubled smile begs Jimin to drive you all home back to your place.

Jimin is silent as he puts the car in reverse and begins driving. Just complete silence coming from him, which is more worrisome than him yelling at you.

The drive is mostly quiet, you can tell Trina is really forcing herself to keep it down while Holly has a death grip on her thigh. You want to laugh at their dynamic but you don’t think anyone is in the mood to laugh right now.

Once home, you drag out one of the chairs at the breakfast table and plop down, taking a seat. Your three friends follow your lead, each taking a seat at the table.

“Guys…do we really have to do this…?” you fold your hands out in front of you on top of the table.

“If it’s really that hard to talk about, no. But I would like it if we did…” Trina tries to say calmly.

You chew on your lips—your usual bad habit as you think. Do you tell them everything? About that night? Your true intentions? It’s silent for a while until Jimin quietly clears his throat.

“Neither of you told me…my best friends…” he stares down at the table top.

“When?” he whispers.

You stare at Jimin, who sits across from you and you feel your heart break just a bit. He looks and sounds so betrayed.

“Freshmen year. New Year’s Eve party.” You finally say.

Trina’s eyes expand, realization hitting her.

“Wait wait wait.” She throws her hands up, “New Year’s Eve party? The night you were going to….?”

You only nod your head yes, feeling fucking embarrassed.

“Going to what?” Jimin asks.

“Nothing!” You and Trina say at the same time.

“Really guys?” Jimin looks down at his hands, a frown taking over his face. “Is that how we’re going to be?”

You do feel bad but are you ready for Jimin to know? One look at his sad face and you guess the answer is yes.

“That night I was going to…” you begin, the memory of that night coming back to you.

Tonight is the night. It’s New Year’s Eve and you’re going to do it. Maybe it’s this glass of wine that’s giving you courage—liquid courage—but you feel like tonight is a good as any.

Jungkook promised you no girls tonight…that tonight is between two best friends with no interruptions. And you believe him, of course. In the months you have known Jungkook he has always kept his word to you.

You lean back in your rolling chair, bringing the glass of wine to your lips and you take a generous sip…yes, tonight you are going to do it. You are going to confess to Jungkook.

“What’s got you so nervous tonight?” Trina asks as she applies her dark lipstick to her thick lips. Trina and you are getting ready in your dorm for the long awaited New Year’s Eve party and she can tell something is weird about you. You keep rubbing your sweaty hands down your black skirt, you keep patting your sweaty forehead dry with one of your t shirts, you keep looking in the mirror and taking much needed deep breaths. You are obvious. So fucking obvious.

“I could be wrong but it looks like you’re worried about a dead body you’re trying to hide…” Trina’s hand stops mid lipstick application as she glances at you, “bitch, you know I will help you.”

You can’t help but laugh, easing some of the nerves.

“No, nothing like that…” you know Trina knows. She’s had her assumptions but she never lets the subject linger…she basically is a bad bitch who minds her business…unlike someone you know—Jimin. Who ALWAYS has some shit to say about you and Jungkook, he on the other hand is a messy bitch who does NOT mind his business.

“It’s about…” you struggle to complete your sentence as you gulp down more wine.

“You don’t have to say…I know. Just know that no matter what, I am on your side.” Trina goes back to applying another layer of lipstick, “Especially if you have to hide a body.”

“Sometimes I wonder about you.” You say flatly.

Trina only laughs that loud ass laugh you love so much. “You wonder about me?” she winks.

It’s your turn to apply your own lipstick to your lips, a nice soothing red when you receive a text from Jimin that he and Jungkook are on their way to the party.

“I hope Stephanie is going to be there tonight…” Trina mumbles underneath her breath, “if not, this outfit is a complete waste” You giggle as you continue to apply your lipstick. You check your phone again to see another text that they’re there,

“Shit, we gotta get going!” You drop your lipstick in your bag and a few other essentials.

Trina raises a brow at you, “Are you trying to rush me?” she looks amused. “You can’t rush perfection.” she threads her fingers through her bouncy hair, “Lucky for you, I am done! And also, always perfect.”

“Yes yes miss perfect, we get it. Let’s go!”

The party is without a doubt: booming. The amount of decorations and alcohol and people is impressive. This is surely about to be a party worth remembering—and you hope you do. You decide to only sip a few beers—wanting to stay at least a little bit sober when you confess and you hope Jungkook isn’t completely shit faced either. Speaking of, where is he? Your eyes scan the crowd, you see Jimin surrounded by a group of people, laughing his head off. You see Trina grinding on some girl…maybe Stephanie? And you see Jungkook on the other side of the living room, sipping on his drink while some girl talks to him. But his eyes are on you. You crack an awkward smile and he turns to face the girl that is trying so hard to talk to him. He says a few words to her and is quickly leaving her side, he is now walking towards you. You can’t help but feel nervous as he approaches you…tonight’s the night, you keep reminding yourself.

You never not liked Jungkook…If you weren’t so shy maybe you would have slept with him the first night you met him… but instead you became friends and that was without a doubt the best thing that could of happened for you two. But in the back of your mind you always wanted more. Something always tugged at your hands, begging you and pulling you in the direction of more with Jungkook. But he seems fine with the friendship…so much so that you thought that maybe pursuing him would be best if you pushed it to the side.

Unfortunately for you, you just couldn’t take it anymore. Your feelings so overwhelming that you got pushed the edge. You’re about to fall off the Jungkook cliff so you decide instead of falling against your will, you will control the situation—parachute and all, you are ready the fall. You’re going to confess.

“What’s with your face?” Jungkook finally stands in front of you, his hands pushed into the front pocket of his jeans.

You take a moment to take in Jungkook’s appearance…his tight jeans, his black combat boots and a white t shirt, with his coat draped over his left arm. He looks good. Really good. You crumble at the sight.

“Who’s the girl?” you catch yourself asking. It isn’t odd for you to pry into his life like this so the words don’t taste weird leaving your mouth…but, only you know you’re only asking because the tinge of jealousy you feel.

“Dunno.” He shrugs his shoulders, “I think I have a class with her.”

“Oh nice.” You also shrug, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible. “Shall we dance?” you nod your head towards the center of the living room where bodies shamelessly dry hump other bodies. You think you’ve seen Jimin grind on at least 10 different people tonight.

“Sure.” He smiles, his arm extends out for you to lead the way.

Somehow you went from sipping on a couple beers to taking shots with none other than your best friend. The two of you go from the living rooms dance floor to the kitchen for hours. The world becomes friendlier and a little blurrier but it’s nothing you can’t handle. You remind yourself to slow down, because you want to at least remember telling Jungkook your feelings for him and you want to remember his response. But wait—would if he rejects you? The thought lingers in your mind, so what do you do? You take another shot.

The air that surrounds the dance floor is different than the rest of the house…its hot, sweaty and downright dangerous. You and Jungkook find yourself dancing along with Trina and Jimin at some point, the 4 of you spinning around, jumping and hugging one another. Laughter filling the air, everything is perfect.

You feel Jungkook’s tatted fingers grip your waist as you dance on him, his fingers never find themselves going lower. And you wish they did.

“Guys! Guys!” You hear Jimin’s voice from a distance, but quickly growing closer.

Jimin stands next to the two of you as you guys are in your own world, the alcohol running through your veins, the music thumping loudly in your ears, Jungkook’s hands holding on to you tightly. Your bodies move together to the beat of the music, Jungkook’s head innocently falling into the crook of your neck. You innocently grinding your ass into his crotch.

All very innocent.

“Wow, just fuck already.” Jimin rolls his eyes playfully, “GUYS!”

“What?!” you and Jungkook yell back in unison, not having liked being interrupted.

An evil smirk makes its way on Jimin’s face, “Upstairs. Let’s go! Truth or dare, come on!”

Truth or dare? What are you guys, 12? You giggle into your hand, nodding your head approvingly. It should be fun. You follow Jimin’s lead up the stairs, you turn around to see Jungkook right after you. You reach for his hand, you two interlocking fingers as you stumble up the stairs trying to keep each other stable. The two of you giggle for no apparent reason as you make your way up, making Jimin roll his eyes again.

You’re about to enter the room when Jungkook stops just outside the door.

“Wait…Jimin?” Jungkook nibbles on his lips, “Can I talk to you for a sec?”

You and Jimin share a concerned look before you announce your departure.

“I’ll see you guys inside.” You smile, letting go of Jungkook’s hand.

“What’s up man?”

“Dare me to kiss y/n.” Jungkook states confidently. Jimin tilts his head in confusion then amusement.

“Why don’t you just kiss her without my help, hm?” Jimin teases, ruffling the younger ones hair. “But sure, why not?”

“Thanks, I owe you.”

“Oh you sure do.” Jimin winks, “Now come on.”

You’re sitting in a circle in the room with about 8 other people, some you’ve barely talked to, others you would consider friends. Jungkook and Jimin walk into the room and you notice Jungkook’s face is a soft pink…probably from the alcohol. Jungkook finds a spot on the floor next to you and he smiles gently in your direction, giving you the heads up that everything is okay. You just nod your head and smile back. The room is loud with chatter and laughter until Jimin stands up and clanks a wine glass with a spoon—ever the dramatic.

“Okay guys, we all know why we are here—truth or dare time!” He sits down in his spot, crossing his legs in front of him, “First, let’s start with Trina.”

“Of course.” Trina says flatly.

“Truth or dare?” Jimin smirks.

“Dare, obviously” she looks around the room, winking at several people.

“Okay,” Jimin pretends to think for a few moments, like he doesn’t already know what he’s going to say. “Dare you to flash your tits to everyone.”

“Oh? Is that all?” Trina quickly lifts her shirt up, revealing her bare breasts to the room. You and Jungkook cackle as you watch the scene unfold.

“Okay Hobi…” Trina nods towards to the bright smiling boy, “Truth or dare?”

“Dare!” he grins with all his teeth, no doubt excited “Okay, I dare you to take 3 shots in a row.”

The truths and dares continue on like this for quite a while. You being lame chose truth at first and had to admit when the last time you masturbated—which was 10 minutes before Trina arrived to your dorm. Jungkook had to spank some guys ass and Jimin had to make out with like, 3 different people. Which he wasn’t complaining. All was well…until it was Jimin’s turn again.

“Okay, Jungkook. Truth or dare?” Jimin smiles knowingly with an evil glint in his eye.

“Dare.” Jungkook says with a cocky smile.

“I dare you to kiss y/n.”

You immediately choke on your drink as you process his words. Jungkook? Kiss YOU? In front of everyone?

Everyone in the room starts whooping and hollering at the idea, but you shake your hands in front of you in denial.

“No, no. We can’t do that!” you slur, your eyes squeezing shut. This isn’t how things are supposed to happen! You need to confess first!

You miss the way Jungkook’s face falls as he looks between you and Jimin. Jimin looks at Jungkook with pity and mouths a ‘sorry’.

“Yeah, no way in hell am I kissing her.” Okay, maybe he didn’t have to sound so harsh. But he feels a bit rejected at the moment and needs to be on your same page.

“Uh, yeah.” You feel a pang in your chest. Oh. Jungkook doesn’t want to kiss you, not even as a dare.

“That’s literally the last thing I want to do!” You hear him cackle from beside you, “Someone else can do the honors!” he continues to bark loudly, laughter filling the room.

Jimin frowns, looking at Jungkook with knowing eyes as he clasps his hands together. “Fine. Kiss Amber instead.”

“That I can do.” Jungkook smirks, looking across the room to a blushing Amber.

Things are starting to feel like they are crumbling…you shouldn’t even confess anymore, right? Jungkook will clearly reject you. The thought makes you want to cry like a stupid ass baby.

“I’m gonna get something more to drink.” You say to no one in particular as you stand to your feet. Jimin watches you leave the room with sad eyes, then his eyes go to Jungkook who looks panicked.

You open the door and go to close it behind you when you feel it being pushed open again. Jungkook.

You ignore him the whole way down the stairs but he continues to silently follow you.

The party is still going hard when you make your way downstairs again, you weave through the crowd to get to the kitchen to fetch yourself another beer.

“y/n! Wait up!” you hear Jungkook call from behind you but you decide to ignore him.

You find the cooler of beers and grab yourself one, the chilling beer freezing against your fingertips. You crack it open and begin chugging it back, enjoying the carbonation that sizzled down your throat.

“Slow down Lightning McQueen.” Jungkook chuckles next to you.

“Don’t tell me what to do,” you don’t mean to snap, but you do. You feel tired, just tired.

“What’s with you?” he quirks a brow, looking adorable while doing so.

“What are you doing here?” you snap again, “Shouldn’t you be like, making out with Selena or whatever her name is.”

Jungkook tilts his head to the side, his doe eyes big and bright, “Selena? Oh! You mean Amber? Nah, I saw you leaving so I came with you.” He smiles, “I told you no girls tonight. I am spending new year with you.”

You blink at him in surprise, but you shouldn’t be surprised. Jungkook always keeps his word to you.

It makes the world crumble a little more, he said no girls. And you guess that includes you. Tonight was supposed to be the night, but you got your answers. Jungkook doesn’t feel the same.

“Want to go outside?” he asks, head nodding towards the back door.

“It’s cold, Jungkook!”

“I’ll keep you warm.” He winks then transitions into a soft smile, “Promise.”

You feel your heart begin to race but you order yourself to calm down…you aren’t confessing tonight, and that’s final.

The two of you walk outside, it was pretty damn cold, your skirt and crop top barely doing enough to keep you warm.

“Here.” Jungkook is shrugging off his jacket and handing it you.

“Thanks” you shiver, slipping on the warm, fuzzy coat. “Will you be fine?” you question.

“Only if you come snuggle with me.”

“Do these lines work on most girls?”

“Usually all of them.” He smirks, rubbing his hands together for warmth.

You giggle and move closer to him, wrapping your arms around his middle. Even though it’s like 20 degrees outside, Jungkook is unbelievably warm. You have to remain normal, like your heart isn’t breaking with every word or soft touch he offers you.

Jungkook pulls his phone out to check the time, huffing when he sees there’s still a few more minutes until midnight

“So how many girls did you have to reject tonight?” You ask with a snicker. Jungkook raises a brow in question, “Like, ‘oohh Jungkook please be my new year’s kiss??’ ya know, shit like that.” You mock. It’s not like you actually want to know the answer but you can’t help but be curious.

“Oh that? No girls lining up tonight.”

“Why’s that? You shut em all down early?”

Jungkook sways back and forth, your body clinging on to his, “I think they all see me with you tonight and are laying off.”

You scoff at his words, “Right, because I have stopped them before.” You roll your eyes.

“Ha, you never know.” Jungkook takes another look at his phone, “Oh less than a minute.” He says with the shrug of his broad shoulders.

“Wanna be my kiss Jeon?” the words slip out of your mouth almost killing you in the process. You can’t believe you just asked that! You literally just decided you’re giving up so why the hell would you offer him your lips

“Just kidding, you would rather have someone else kiss me, right?” you huff, saving yourself but god, what you wouldn’t give to feel his lips on yours just one time. For him to be yours…just one time.

Jungkook chokes on his spit as he tries to swallow down your words, “W-What?”

“Nothing.”

Jungkook obviously heard you loud and clear. Did you actually want to be kissed by him, he thinks.

5

4

3

2

1

Cheers of your classmates erupt besides you and you cannot help but smile at everyone’s happiness. You see many of them sharing hugs and kisses and you feel a pang of jealousy but you are mostly feeling joy.

“It’s nice right? Every—”

You didn’t get to finish what you were saying before Jungkook’s chapped lips are on yours. His mouth is warm and inviting but you don’t make yourself at home. Instead, you stand absolutely still as Jungkook innocently moves his lips over yours. Before you can really react, Jungkook is pulling away: absolutely horrified.

“y/n…I shouldn’t have done that…I’m sorry,” Jungkook is quick to stutter out.

You are frozen. You wish you could blame something…anything, wish you could blame the flurries that floated down to the earths ground, wish you could blame the below freezing weather and your short mini skirt, wish you could blame anything for why you are standing absolutely frozen.

You wish you could move, but the universe just won’t allow it.

“Oh my god, y/n…I really am sorry…fuck…” Jungkook’s wide eyes are focused on his feet as he threads his fingers through his thick, black hair. “Fuck, I’m sorry. Please forget about th—”

And your lips are back on his again. Jungkook’s lips may be a bit chapped but they are as soft and fluffy as you have once imagined. With your lips back on his, you take charge. You quickly move them over his, he hums in satisfaction. Your fingers find themselves in his dark locks, pushing up into his soft hair as his hand moves to cup your jaw.

You gasp when you feel his teeth nibble at your bottom lip, and moan into his mouth when you feel him jerk his hips into yours.

“Let’s go to your place.” You heavily breathe out, your fingers dragging down the side of his face.

Jungkook disconnects himself from you, stepping back a good foot, inspecting your face,

“You sure?” he asks.

“I’m sure.”

Because he may not feel the same, and he may not be yours but maybe just for one night he can be.

“Wait, you were…” Jimin’s eyebrows rise to the top of his forehead, “you were going to confess to Jungkook…?”

“Yeah…I know this might be shocking to hear—”

Jimin bursts out into laughter, his hand goes over to cover his mouth as he mutters out apologies.

“Shocking?! You think this is shocking to hear?!” he continues to chuckle, “But wow…on New Year’s eve…oh my god…” Realization hits Jimin. “Oh my god…you both are so unbelievably stupid. Oh my god.”

You share a look of confusion with Trina and Holly as Jimin continues to connects dots in his head.

“Please promise me one of these days you will actually sit down with Jungkook and have an honest conversation with him…because this is just cruel and hilarious to listen to. Your timing…wow. So fucking stupid, you idiots.”

“Okay, you don’t have to be so harsh Jimin.” Holly says sweetly, her awkward smile easing everyone.

“What do you mean?” you finally ask.

“Do you still like him…even now? I mean, I know the answer honestly but go ahead.” Jimin gestures his hand for you to answer him.

“I…”

“She doesn’t need to answer that.” Trina cuts in, “No matter what, we’re on her side. Right?”

“Oh honey,” Jimin tilts his head towards Trina, “There are no sides for me. They’re both my friends and they’re both idiots.”

You can’t help but laugh at Jimin’s words. Because he knows better than anyone how true that is, so you’ll believe him.

“But really y/n…if you didn’t tell me or Trina…did you tell anyone?”

You begin chewing on your lips again,

“I don’t even talk about it with Jungkook.”

“Why?” Holly decides to pry.

“We…after we slept together…I could tell Jungkook was freaking out. He kind of tried brushing off the whole situation and I…I just had sex with the guy I had feelings for. So I put a little bit of space between us—”

“Wait, this is when you guys weren’t really hanging out for a couple months?!”

“It was only a month.” You deadpan. “But yeah…”

“I was wondering what the fuck was going on…Jungkook wouldn’t tell me anything.”

Guilt begins making a new home with you as you sit here. You wonder if you made a poor choice back then.

“Then we agreed to never talk about it to save our friendship.” You finish.

Jimin gives you a blank stare, his eyes probably going dry from lack of blinking.

“To…save your…y/n please, I am literally begging you. Talk to him. Fucking tell him the truth…” Jimin begs, he finally screws his eyes shut and shakes his head, “I can’t help you any more than that.”

~~~~~~

It’s Monday morning and you woke up with a raging headache and a snotty nose. You better not be getting sick, you think to yourself. You have a full shift ahead of you!

You slowly put on your work uniform and apply some light makeup for the day. Did you always lack color in your face or are you actually getting sick? Fuckity fuck, you think.

“Are you sure you’re going to be okay?” Jade asks from beside you, you notice she dyed her hair black instead of the light brown she was previously sporting.

“Nice hair.” You go to compliment.

“Nice try but don’t change the subject.” She pats you on the back, “Me and the guys can take care of customers, you just bake, okay?”

“Kay.”

“You know who is so beautiful even when she’s sick?” Adam butts in, “Hazel.” He answers for you both with a dopey smile.

“Now’s not the time, loser.” Jade bobs her head around, “Where’s Lenny?”

“Probably eating fucking cookies.” You say with a grin.

“Wow, guys. I’ve been here the whole time and I am not eating cookies.” Lenny says from behind Jade. “But speaking of, don’t throw away the rejects I am taking them home.”

“Quick everyone,” Jade says flatly, “act surprised.”

The sound of the bell going off catches your attention, you notice a head full of sandy hair and you groan. It’s him. You feel like all the energy is being drained from your body, now is not the time for Mister Oatmeal Raisin.

“I’ll take care of him, don’t worry!” Lenny gives you a wide smile but you raise your hand up to stop him.

“It’s okay, he’s my usual. He’s going to ask for me anyway.”

You make it the front of the store to the register and give Mister Oatmeal Raisin a weak smile.

“Are we going to be a brat today?” he greets you warmly. You scoff and try smiling again but fall a bit short.

“Hey everything okay, y/n?”

“I’m fine Mister Oatmeal Raisin.”

“You don’t look…” he lets the words die on his tongue, not wanting to actually offend you.

“The usual?” you ask, already pushing the buttons on the screen for his order.

“Yeah.” He gives you a small smile and you smile back. You aren’t use to being so nice with him, usually you two have a lot more fun, shit, you really must not be feeling well.

You must turn around too quickly because you become very dizzy, your body wobbling and shaking from the sudden chill you feel. You hurry to lean against the counter, your hand going up to feel your throbbing forehead.

“Hey you good?” Mister Oatmeal Raisin peeks over.

“Fine, I—” you try to take a few steps but wobble too much that you almost fall. The world turning dark as your vision goes blurry but before you can hit the ground you feel yourself fall into two arms.

“Woah woah, y/n? y/n?” you hear your name from a distance, but the world is so dark and so cold that you can hardly focus on it.

“I got you.” You hear the same voice again.

You slowly open your eyes to see your most faithful customers face mere inches from your own as he holds your body up.

“You okay?”

You steady yourself and slowly get out of his hold and nod your head.

“Yeah, thanks Mister Oatmeal Raisin.” You weakly smile, saluting towards him.

“Min Yoongi.”

You can’t help but blush at your situation,

“Yoo…Yoongi.” You repeat back, your face returning some of its color. Mostly just shades of red.

“Yeah.” He smiles a real smile, you notice how cute and gummy it is and it makes you feel nice. Min Yoongi, huh?

~~~~~

It’s a lazy Tuesday afternoon, the sun creating a blanket of warmth outside while being accompanied by a fresh breeze. You want to enjoy the day…you really do but…

“Just let me die a miserable death.” You sniffle into your sleeve. It’s the 2nd day of the flu and you are well, like you said, miserable.

“You need to take the rest of your meds babe,” Jimin’s hand is full of various pills, he tries handing them to you but you deny him.

“No, I’m gonna overdose.”

“You’re not gonna fucking overdose you dramatic ass bitch.” Jimin rolls his eyes, setting the medicine down on your nightstand next to a full glass of water.

“Listen, I have to go to work but maybe call Trina to come take care of you? I know Holly is at school for the day—”

“Trina is home visiting her parents…” you sound disgusting as you speak, your voice all gross and nasaly.

“Oh. Maybe you could call—”

“No. Anyone but him,” you cut in, waving your hands in front of your face.

Anyone but Jungkook, you don’t need him to take care of you…you guys are hardly starting to become friends again and its only in group settings. So him taking care of you one on one sounds…intimate.

“No offense babe, but you literally don’t have any other friends.”

“I can take care of my—” you’re cut off by a string of sneezes, one after the fucking other. “Fuck, I am dying.” You shiver.

Jimin places his hand over your forehead, getting a feel for your temperature.

“Shit…I’m going to call him.”

“Noooo Jimin….” You lay back on your bed, your head beginning it’s pounding again. “Don’t need him…” you lazily grab the NyQuil bottle from your nightstand, “Only need this.” You smile while taking a few gulps.

“Jesus, what is wrong with you?”

Jimin takes out his phone and taps away on his screen, you assume he is sending a million texts to Jungkook begging him to come babysit you, that or he is texting Trina what a stubborn, whiny bitch you are to which she probably just replies with “True.”

“Wanna watch Howl’s Moving Castle.” You slur in your drowsy state, all the meds and NyQuil kicking in.

“Jungkook will be here in 30. Have him put it on for you when he gets here…I really gotta go…”

“Jungkook?” you try to open your eyes as you speak but they threaten to close every few seconds.

“Yeah. He will take care of you y/n.”

You wrap yourself further into your duvet, but the shivers don’t let up. You’re shaking from how freaking cold you are. Yet you are sweating like the disgusting human being you are.

Jimin eyes you over once more, his eyes full of pity as he closes your bedroom door and whispers a ‘see you later’ under his breath.

“y/n?” You hear his voice in the distance, like he’s a mile from you at least. His voice is fuzzy and far away. And you want it closer.

“y/n???” your body is being shaken awake, gently though. Like, he doesn’t want to hurt you.

“Hey…you need to take your medicine…” you begin to slowly open your eyes, the world is blurry and the sound of his angelic voice echoes. Jungkook.

“No…” you manage to breathe out.

“y/n you know I will force these pills down your throat.”

“mmmmm, leave me alone.” You lazily turn your body over to face the window. Your body shivering as you nuzzle further into the duvet.

“Not happening,” He walks to the other side of the bed and sits on the edge, just staring down at you. “Please take your meds, for me?”

“Mm mm”” you shake your head, your hair sticking to your forehead as more sweat builds up.

Jungkook looks at you with a soft smile, his hand reaching out to feel your forehead. His eyes widen as he feels how much you are burning up.

“Fuck…you’re hot.”

You crack open your eyes to look at Jungkook, “Thanks, you’re hot too.” You wink. Like a fucking sleaze. Your drowsy state feeling intoxicating as you lay here in your bed.

Jungkook chuckles to himself before turning serious again, “If you take some fever reducer I will do whatever you want today.”

You let his words marinate as you lay here, lifeless. “Anything?” you say, peering up at him.

His soft smile grows as his fingers find their way in your messy, sweaty hair.

“Anything.”

“Go buy me chicken noodle soup.” You whisper. “The kind you use to always buy me.”

Jungkook’s brows climb up his forehead as he looks at you amused.

“You think I came empty handed? Like, I didn’t already bring it?” he smirks, standing to his feet. “I’ll go warm it up, and you promise you will take your meds?”

“Pinky promise.” You weakly lift up your hand to bring your pinky to his and he gladly accepts it.

Of course Jungkook brought the soup. He’s Jungkook and you’re y/n. He is always taking care of you and you want to melt. Well, with how high this fever is you actually might.

“Hey Jungkook?” you struggle to turn over to face the bedroom door, “Thanks for coming.” Your dopey smile doing things to his heart. He looks at you with a soft, almost sad smile before he’s making his way to the kitchen.

Jungkook doesn’t want to admit how fast he rushed here to your place, but it was fucking fast. All Jimin sent was a simple “y/n’s sick.” text and he was already calling the deli where he got the soup from, placing a quick order for 2 and gathering his stuff to make his way over.

He is used to being in charge of you when you’re sick because you are stubborn as hell and he actually has the patience. But he has barely talked to you since the night of the get together, aka the night he became weak and almost kissed you—and if it weren’t for Jimin, he is sure he would have.

Jungkook stands at the stove as he heats up a portion of the chicken soup, he stares off into space as the surface begins to bubble. He exhales deeply, taking the pot off the stove and pouring the contents into a bowl for you. The soup is hot, but you probably need the heat to help ease the congestion.

Jungkook walks back into your room, the bowl in his hands with a towel wrapped around it. You wish you could smell the soup but you’re so blocked up that you don’t even notice it.

“Here, try to sit up.” He sets the bowl down on your nightstand. He goes to help you sit up from your spot in bed, his strong arms pulling you up and you gasp when you’re finally upright. Fuck. You become so lightheaded and dizzy that you hold on to his forearm for support and he lets you. He gives you a moment to adjust to your new position before he’s reaching for the soup.

“It’s hot, so be careful.” He warns softly.

He waits for you to grab the bowl but you just continue to stare at him with tired eyes.

“Wow, do I have to do everything?” he jokes, “Even feed you?”

You nod your head slowly in approval, “Yes, feed me.”

“Such a brat. You’re definitely taking all your meds after this, okay?”

“Sure.”

Jungkook sets the bowl on the edge of the bed, holding it with one hand carefully and his other hand scoops up the broth with a spoon. He brings the spoon to your mouth and nudges it between your lips.

“Open.” He demands.

Your half lidded eyes stare up at his large ones, your chest slightly heaving from trying to breathe. You never break contact as you part your lips for him, letting him pour the spoons contents down your throat.

“Good girl.” He whispers, setting the spoon back down in the bowl. “Taste good?”

You swallow the liquid and open your mouth to speak ,”Can’t taste anything…” you murmur.

Jungkook smiles down at you, “That’s a shame because,” he takes a mouthful of soup in his mouth, “It’s fucking delicious.”

“Hey! You’ll get sick!”

“I never get sick from you, remember?”

You lay your head back on your headboard, closing your eyes as the NyQuil begins to make its second attempt with you.

“So sleepy but so cold.”

“You need to eat more baby.” Jungkook gathers vegetables and a piece of chicken this time in the spoon, he brings the spoon to your lips and you open wide for him, eating what he feeds you gratefully.

This goes on for several minutes until you can’t stomach anymore food, you slide back down into your sheets, feeling miserable all over again.

“Hey, time for yours meds.” Jungkook says sternly, he shakes the pill bottle to remind you of your deal.

“Fine,” you reply weakly, you try to sit back up enough to swallow down some pills and water.

Once you gulp it down, Jungkook stares at you with a satisfied smile.

“Cold?” he asks.

“Freezing.”

You feel the bed dip beside you and before you can react you feel two strong, warm arms engulf you in a hug.

“Jungkook, what are you doing?” you slur into his chest, sleep trying its hardest to take you away.

“Just rest, y/n.” he hugs you tighter. “I’ll be here when you wake up.”

“You promise?”

“I promise.”

Jungkook feels his heart crack when you doubt his promises now, he feels himself sink into depression as he recalls what he did to you.

The past 3 months have been crazy and weird without you. He’s missed you every day. The first few weeks he spent it in isolation. He felt like he was lost and lonely and like he didn’t deserve anyone’s love or affection. Then he decided in order for him to move on he needs to put some serious distance between the two of you…hence, why he moved out.

He knows it was sudden and fucked up but he had to…Or else he would be stuck in his lonely unrequited love forever.

Your last night with him before he disappeared he even got his hopes up…that maybe you could feel the same, but he had to be realistic. You were in such a weird state, you just needed comfort. And he hates that he was second choice.

He thought on this for a couple months, his mind overflowing with thoughts and cruel ideas. He was beginning to spiral until he met…Vanessa.

Vanessa was just looking to get laid, just like him. They met through tinder, hooking up after matching the first night. But the sex was so good they both agreed to do it again.

One night, they got so shit faced they both ended up venting about the one who makes life better yet harder. For her, it was her ex of 4 years and for him, it was you.

They confided in one another, feeling free telling someone their deepest romantic desires and they just clicked. Forming a solid friendship while also fucking.

Jungkook is grateful for Vanessa because for the first time in 3 years he connected with someone who isn’t you. Vanessa is a smart, sexy girl. And Jungkook isn’t blind to see that, so they made a deal. They would use each other to get over the ones they really love. And he thinks it could of almost worked until he saw you at that party. You were wearing the same black mini skirt that he fucked you in for the first (and only) time. You looked better than he’s ever seen you.

Somehow this made Jungkook feel even more depressed. So you are better off without him, he thinks.

Jungkook is lost in his thoughts when he feels you stir…you briefly open your eyes and tilt your head to look up at him, you blink lazily with a dopey smile.

“love you.” You yawn out, closing your eyes once again, drifting back off into dream world.

Jungkook’s heart stops. Your words ringing in his ears as he tries to stay calm.

He knows you mean it platonically but he still can’t help what it does to his weak heart. He is crazy for you, even with everything that’s happened he still loves you. You and you only. It’s always you.

Jungkook plays with your hair and chuckles lightly as he hears you struggling to breathe properly due to your nose being plugged up. How can he continue to see Vanessa when he has you? Jungkook’s smile drops all together when he realizes that would put him back at square 1.

It’s almost midnight when you wake, your body feels stiff from how much shivering you endured. You try to get up when you realize Jungkook’s body is wrapped strongly around your own, his light snores filling up the room.

You look at him carefully, his hair falling into his eyes as he moans lightly every time he moves around slightly. He’s so cute, you think. You’ve always thought Jungkook was cute but right now there’s something so endearing about him it makes you want to peck his lips softly.

Wait, what? You want to what? That’s not allowed!

The next morning comes quickly, you lay awake in Jungkook’s arms wondering if it’s okay to stay like this all day. You admittingly feel much better compared to yesterday, breathing is much easier and your head isn’t throbbing. You feel a fondness swell in your chest as you stare at Jungkook’s soft, sleeping face and it makes you feel weird all of the sudden.

You’ve always felt this way about Jungkook, right? Wait, what way? What are you saying? Or at least, trying to say? You know though, you know what you are trying to say…it’s the same thing you’ve been trying to say since freshmen year. But saying it out loud is just different.

Confusion on how to feel clouds your mind as you stare at him, his breaths are light and airy and you feel so warm and safe in his embrace. He slightly shifts, his hips bumping into yours, lightly grinding into you. Your eyes widen as you feel his hard member bumping into your thigh and it’s not like you haven’t felt it before while the two of you slept but still, it surprises you each time.

Feeling his length twitching on your thigh is creating trouble for you, you hate that such a small act is getting you all hot. You try to scoot away but he only pulls you closer on instinct. He brings you so close that his warm breath fans over your right cheek and you want to force yourself to sleep more so you aren’t hyper aware of his dick.

“Jungkook…” you mumble, trying to free yourself from his grasp but you fail miserably.

His arms are circled around your hips and he digs his fingers into your exposed flesh from how your shirt is riding up.

“Baby…” he groans out, his hips grinding into your thigh again. His eyes are screwed shut, like he is still stuck in his dreams.

You lay here frozen, he’s called you baby a million times but this is different. He’s only ever called you baby in that tone when you two…you slam your eyes shut, trying to rid yourself of the memories.

“Jungkook, time to wake up.” You wiggle in his arms but your thigh only rubs on his dick more. He releases quiet whimpers against your ear, his lips parting in pleasure.

“Mmm…” he pants out, his hips thrusts against your thigh again.

Jungkook…dreaming?

Was it bad luck to interrupt someone’s dream? Or is this just an excuse to have him rutting against you?

“Jungkook…” your voice comes out shaky as you turn your body to face him, he groans in his sleep once more.

You’re afraid he’s going to say it. Her name. Vanessa. That’s the last thing you would want to hear…it would probably ruin your whole day so you need to wake him up.

“Jungkook….” You sound more breathy than intended. You need him to wake up so you can stop thinking about his length rubbing up on you. You flush as you feel your panties start to dampen, this cannot be happening. Why did Jungkook have to have this sort of reaction out of you?

“Mmm…” Jungkook whines quietly as he ruts himself harder onto you. His cock up against your lower belly, you start to imagine him without his black sweats on, you start to imagine him without his shirt. You hesitate to reach your hand against his hard chest, you breathe out heavily as you begin to drag your fingers down until you reach just the top of his waistband. Your eyes follow your fingers until you spot his hard erection through his sweats and you breathe erratically.

“What are you doing?” Jungkook’s husky voice interrupts your horny daze. Your eyes expand in size as you realize your position. Your eyes trail up his chest until you meet his gaze, his pupils blown out.

“Where do your hands think they’re going?”

“No—nowhere.” You stare up at him, gulping. You can’t do this with him, you are finally getting your friendship back but what is with all this tension?

Jungkook releases his hold on you, moving to his back. His arms fold underneath his head as he stares up at the ceiling.

“What were you—were you dreaming about?” your hand innocently finds its way back on his chest, resting over his beating heart.

“Uh…” Jungkook turns 3 shades of red, “I don’t remember.” His blush deepens.

“I feel like you’re lying.”

“Why would I ever lie to you?” Jungkook chuckles.

Your eyes trail down his body and you see his length still struggling with a probably painful erection.

“You have a problem?” you gesture towards his crotch.

Jungkook exhales a heavy breath, his eyes rolling to the back of his head. “Jesus Christ, y/n.”

“what?” you feign innocence.

“Do you really have to point out everything?”

“Only things that are super obvious.”

“Fuck.”

“You can go take care of it in the bathroom?” you kindly offer, causing him to scoff.

“I’m good.”

“I guess Vanessa usually takes care of these things, huh?”

“Seriously?”

Jungkook groans out, frustration written all over his face. He hates the mention of Vanessa especially when he was just dreaming about you. He feels wrong. They aren’t officially in a relationship but somehow it feels like cheating.

“Can we not talk about her?” Jungkook doesn’t want to be reminded of the shitty situations he’s in.

“What do you want to talk about?”

“Are you feeling better?” he asks softly, he moves his body to lay on his side to face you.

“Much.” You smile, “Thanks again.”

“Ready for some more chicken soup?”

A few hours pass, you figured Jungkook would have left by now but he sits on your couch next to you while the two of you watch some new anime. He laughs every now and then at the ridiculous characters and you feel warm inside. It almost feels like how things were before, when he still lived with you.

“Yeah, it does.” He says, still facing the screen.

“Huh?”

“You said it feels like we still live together.” He points out.

Shit, you said that out loud.

Jungkook bows his head, “I am…sorry that I moved out.”

“Move back in.”

“You know I can’t do that…plus, you have Holly now.” Jungkook sits back against the sofa, “Can’t just kick her out.” He snickers.

“Just move in my room with me.” You say half joking. But also, you know, half serious.

“Ha ha y/n.”

“What? You don’t like sleeping with me?” you tease. “Speaking of…you can stay as long as you want…”

“I…I have plans tonight, actually.” Jungkook stiffens in his spot. He pulls his phone out from his pocket, “actually, I should get going soon.” He regrets saying.

“Oh, okay.”

~~~~~

It’s almost 7pm and Jungkook looks himself over in the mirror. He’s got tight, ripped jeans and a dark blue shirt tucked in, his hair is wavy against his forehead. He knows he looks good but he can’t find himself to be happy about it.

He has a date with Vanessa tonight…

Vanessa 7:04pm

Hey babe, I’m ready when you are<3

Jungkook 7:05pm

Okay, I am on my way :)

The ride over to Vanessa’s place takes about 20 minutes, he uses this time to listen to the radio and think. He asked Vanessa earlier this week on a date for both of their days off.

When he arrives to her apartment, he sends her a text that he’s here.

Vanessa walks out wearing a cute, yellow sundress. Her hair freshly trimmed and sporting bangs.

“Hi handsome.” She says as she steps inside Jungkook’s car. She leans over to place a kiss on Jungkook’s lips and as she begins to pull away he pulls her back in, his lips chasing hers for a more heated kiss.

“Hi.” He finally says, out of breath.

“What was that for?” she smirks, her skinny fingers digging into her purse to pull out her phone.

“Let me guess,” she begins scrolling through it mindlessly, “You’re desperate to get y/n out of your head?” She stops scrolling to glance his way, “Need me?”

“It’s not like that…” Jungkook groans.

“Oh? Isn’t it though?” her coy smile spreads across her face. “But you need me to forget, right?” she tilts her head to the side, “That’s what we’re here for, Jungkook. We use each other.”

Jungkook drags a hand down his face, “But we are trying aren’t we? To make this work?” he sounds and looks tired, that Vanessa almost feels bad.

“We can make it work later, right now you need me.” She crawls on to Jungkook’s lap, she hikes up her dress around her waist and swivels her hips over his crotch, “Don’t you?”

“Vanessa…” he chokes out. Men are so weak, she thinks.

Her hands go to unbutton his jeans and pull out his half hard cock, she gently strokes it over and over until he is fully hard in her hand.

“Fuck,” he exhales deeply, the feeling of her tiny cold hand doing incredible things to his dick.

Vanessa slides her panties to the side and rubs his dick against her wet folds, covering his dick with her juices until she lines it up with her entrance. She releases a smooth breath as she begins to sink down on his hard cock, Jungkook gasps out of the warm feeling her tight cunt provides.

“You need me, don’t you?” her voice is smooth as silk. “But you won’t ever love me.” Vanessa rises from his cock and slams back down, repeating the motion over and over until Jungkook is panting out sweet words that mean nothing.

“You wish it was her, don’t you?” her sinister smile growing on her face, “Wish this perfect pussy was y/n’s.”

At the mention of you, Jungkook loses all composure while his dick throbs, begging for release.

“Fuck...” he whines out, his eyes screwing shut in pleasure, “y/n.”

“That’s right….” Vanessa’s wicked grin takes up her whole face now, “Fuck me like I am her.”

Jungkook shamelessly moans out your name over and over, his hips meeting hers in desperate thrusts. His eyes remain closed as he fucks into Vanessa’s cunt, only wishing and imagining it was you.

“Fuuuuck” he groans out, his fingers finding Vanessa’s clit and he rubs tight, focused circles.

Vanessa whines out, loving the feeling of his cock, his fingers and the mention of your name. it was all fucked up and nothing turned her on more.

She quickly comes undone as Jungkook continues to thrust from below, his precision becoming sloppy.

“y/n…” he grunts out with one final thrust as he comes inside Vanessa.

He keeps his eyes shut as he comes down from his high, the feeling insane.

Vanessa smirks down at him, slipping his softening cock out of her. She crawls back over to the passenger side of the car and buckles her seatbelt.

“Ready for our date.” She smiles, she digs through her purse to fetch her phone and it tapping away on it.

“Fuck…” Jungkook finally opens his eyes, realizing what the fuck he’s just done. “Vanessa…”

“It’s okay.” She says nonchalantly. “I was into it.”

“How?”

“Because I think of him every time you’ve made me come.” She peeks over her phone, her eyes shining. “So we’re even.”

~~~~~

“She lives!” You hear Adam sing as you walk into the bakery.

You look and feel much better! Totally revived from the fucking dead. You smile at your coworker and do a twirl and a curtsey just for show.

“I live!” you copy while smiling as you continue to do a few more curtseys.

Jade and Lenny walk out from the back and applaud you, you laugh at their action.

“Your oatmeal raisin guy has been in every day since you’ve been out to see if you’re okay.” Lenny brings up with a knowing smile, “Or should I call him your hero? Your savior?” he grins, stuffing his face with a sugar cookie.

“Oh shush, let’s just call him…” you begin to blush, “Yoongi.”

“Yoongi, huh?” Jade playfully elbows Adam’s side, “We’re calling him ‘Yoongi’ now!” she and Adam laugh, their teasing going straight to your head.

Yoongi is your usual customer—yes. But he’s also your…what did Lenny say? Your hero? Your savior? You cringe just thinking about it! But you cannot help but grin.

The work day goes on, you have your usual easy customers, your usual stubborn customers but no sign of Yoongi yet. He usually comes on what you are assuming is his lunch break, he must work nearby but it’s already almost closing time and he hasn’t made an appearance…not that you were looking forward to it or anything…it’s just you want to say thank you, you know, for catching you when you almost fucking fainted. A simple thank you!

You’re chillin in the back, swiping through your phone when the bell goes off at the front. Jade is the first to head towards the counter when after a moment or two she’s calling out your name. He must be here, you think. You smooth out your apron and look at your reflection from your phone screen—wait, why does it even matter? You begin walking towards the front to see Yoongi standing there with a worried expression on his face but once he sees you he smiles softly.

“You’re here.” He says.

You raise a hand, “Yup, I’m here.” You laugh, “Listen, I wanted to—”

“Are you feeling better?” he looks between you and Jade and she nods her head and walks back to the back.

“Much.”

Yoongi sighs in relief, then smirks at you.

“Then I’ll have my usual.”

You stare at him before your smile is growing on your face, you can’t believe the nerve of this guy. You like it though, you have to admit.

“Sure…Yoongi.”

Yoongi looks pleasantly surprised as he nods his head in satisfaction. You walk to the back and get him his two cookies, you bring them to him as he takes the bag from you, you put it in his order on the screen.

“Also…” you say, looking up from the screen “I really want to say thanks.”

“For?” Yoongi stuffs his hands into the pockets of his jacket.

“For helping me that day…I wanted to like, uh…”

“Wanted to like, uh…what?”

“I was wondering if I could treat you to like an ice cream or something…” you sway side to side, feeling a bit awkward.

“Are you asking me out?” Yoongi blurts out and you feel flustered as fuck, all the heat rushing to your cheeks.

“W-What? N-No—”

“Because if you are,” Yoongi takes one hand out of his pocket with his phone in his grasp, “Then I would say yes.” He slides his phone over the counter. “Number.”

You must be red as a cherry, or a tomato, or like a fire truck or whatever the fuck else is super red. You look at him and gasp, your hand coming to your mouth and you can’t help but lightly chuckle.

“Fine, I’ll give you my number…but this is just a thank you outing.” You wink, taking the phone and putting your number in.

“Sure, whatever you want to tell yourself darling.” Yoongi takes his phone from you and puts it back into his jacket pocket.

“I’m free this weekend.” He sways back and forth on his heels and he laughs a bit before saying ‘Ah’ and taking out $4 and hands it to you.

“For the cookies.”

“You’re not going to inspect them?” you put the money in the register.

“I’m deciding to trust you today.”

You smile again, a real smile. Yoongi smiles back and he’s about to say something when the chime of the bell goes off and a woman and her kids make their way inside the store.

“I’ll text you.” He says before he’s turning around and heading out the door.

~~~~~

“A DATE?!” Trina and Holly yell in unison. You just told them about ice cream with Yoongi and their excitement is very evident.

“It’s not a date guys. God, how many times do I have to tell you?” you whine into the cookie you’re eating.

“It’s a thank you outing!”

“Thank you outing my ass.” Jimin frowns, “Why are you going on a date? What about Jungkook?”

You scoff, “What about him? We’re just friends, Jimin.” You defend.

“If you just come clean about every—”

“No. What good would that do?” you bite on your bottom lip, “So I can feel the lovely pain of getting rejected? He literally has a girlfriend.”

“Yeah, don’t even get me started on that shit.” Jimin complains, he takes one of the cookies from the box on the middle of the table and starts nibbling on the treat.

“But who even is this Min Yoongi guy? Is he cute?”

“Super…” you admit through a soft breath.

What? He is. He may have started out as your annoying customer but you kind of always thought he was cute.

“It’s just ice cream, you know?”

“Is it just ice cream though?” Holly intervenes, stuffing her own face with a cookie, totally ignoring the new fad diet she’s on.

“Yeah, this sounds like a good opportunity y/n.” Trina grins.

“A good opportunity?”

Jimin looks at Trina incredulously, “A good opportunity? Really Trina? Just say you hate Jungkook and move on.”

“Okay, I hate Jungkook.” She states without a problem and you frown…you don’t want her to hate him. Yeah, he hurt you but he’s…he’s not a bad guy.

“Stop guys…” you finally say, putting your half eaten cookie down. You…this isn’t a date! This isn’t a date! This isn’t a date! But…would if it is?

“Aren’t you ready to move on y/n?” Trina looks at you seriously, her hard expression almost scaring you.

“I—”

“She doesn’t have to answer that,” Jimin cuts in, “Because whatever she decides we’re on her side…right, Trina?” Jimin gives Trina a cold stare, a bite in his voice.

“Okay guys, yes let’s all just support y/n…” Holly tries saving the tension in the room.

You…tried this before already. You tried using someone to distract yourself from Jungkook, you don’t plan on using innocent Yoongi to do that again.

“It’s just a thank you outing…” you mumble, the words hard to understand by your friends. “Just saying thank you…” you bow your head, feeling sad all of the sudden.

This won’t be a repeat, will it? Taehyung number 2? You don’t think Yoongi has any ulterior motives, no not that. But do you?

“Yeah. It’s not a date.”

Jimin clasps his hands together, “Then it’s settled! Let’s change the subject.” He looks between you and Trina and Holly.

“Agreed.” Trina and Holly say at the same time, you only nod your head.

~~~~

It’s a nice Saturday evening, the breeze blows through you just right making you feel so alive. The sun is setting, giving the sky a gorgeous orange glow and you fall in love with the sight.

“How many more pictures are you going to take of the sky?” Yoongi chuckles, he walks close beside you making sure you don’t run into to like, any poles as you distractedly take photos of the beautiful sky.

“One more, one more!” you snap one last photo on your phone and slide it in your back pocket, “I have a collection of sky pictures!” you say with pride.

“I believe you.” He takes out his own phone and captures a picture of the sky too. “So we can look at the same sky.” He mumbles somewhat timidly.

You tilt your head and smile at him. You two met outside the bakery this evening so you could walk to the ice cream shop just a block away, he walks on the side next to the street while you occupy the spot walking next to all the shops.

“You know I work right around here but never been to this ice cream place you mention before.”

“Really? Where do you work?”

“The record store.”

“Ah, really? I’ve never been in.” you slow down to admire the plants outside the floral shop.

“You should come by, I think the owner would be cool with it.” He smirks.

You observe his sly smile and you wonder…

“If you say some shit like ‘It’s because I’m the owner’….” You begin, you see his sly smile grow even wider. “Oh my god, you are!”

Yoongi laughs out loud, nodding his head.

“It’s a pretty small store, but all mine.” He smiles fondly thinking over his store. “I’m serious, come check it out sometime. I mean, you like music right?”

“Am I a human being? Of course I like music!”

You both laugh while approaching the shop. Once inside, you notice how busy it is and you become afraid you two won’t find a spot to sit.

“Here, tell me what you want and I’ll go order while you find us a spot to sit, hm?” Yoongi offers, as if reading your mind.

“Oh. Okay, yeah. Sounds good.”

After circling the place for several minutes you notice a couple that was sitting at a table by the window leave so you rush to occupy the spot. You grab a napkin and wipe down the table before sitting down, you pull out your phone and scroll through social media while waiting for Yoongi to come with your ice creams.

After waiting for quite some time, Yoongi finally shows up with two ice cream cones of different flavors.

“Here.” He gives you a small smile while handing you your cone as he takes a seat across from you.

“Long line.” He gestures towards the line and smiles again.

You really like his smile, he looks genuinely happy when he does.

“You know, you kind of intimidated me at first…” you admit softly, your own smiling joining the club.

“But you seem quite soft.” You laugh, licking your ice cream.

“I get that a lot…” Yoongi groans, he looks down at the table before looking back up at you,

“I’m just kind of shy at first.”

“Shy my ass!” you lick more of your treat, “You weren’t shy complaining about the cookies I choose for you!”

Yoongi blushes at this, his laughter timid.

“The cookies you choose are fine.” He finally says, “Just had a lot of fun messing with you.” He looks up and smirks. “So,” Yoongi begins licking his ice cream again, “What do you do? Or is the bakery it?”

You internally groan. You hate this question. You have a marketing degree yet you work selling cookies.

“Uh, for now, yeah.”

“Why just for now?”

“I have a degree in marketing but…”

“Oh? Your passion lies in marketing then?” he continues to kitten lick his ice cream.

You don’t mean to scoff, but you do. You fucking do.

“Ha, passion.” You chuckle bitterly, “I hate that word.”

Yoongi raises his brows in curiosity, “Why’s that?”

“I don’t think I…” you struggle to find your words, the topic making you antsy.

“You don’t think you have a passion? Is that it?” Yoongi hits bulls fucking eye. You sigh out, finishing up your ice cream and take a bite of your cone.

“I know, that seems impossible right? Everyone has—”

“It’s okay.” He states plainly, finishing up his own ice cream. “Having a passion…a dream…you don’t have to have something like that to live a good life. Even just surviving the day is the dream.” He looks into your eyes and he shows that gummy smile you are learning to enjoy so much.

His words…you don’t really realize the impact they are leaving on you, his beautiful and wise words are exactly what you need to hear.

Yoongi continues,

“I thought I had big dreams but in the end my dream was small, it was simple. I just want to live happily. Maybe it’s the same for you, I don’t know though. I’m only now getting to know you.” His shy tone makes you feel weak.

“No, no. I think you’re right.” You admit between soft breaths. “I only pursued marketing because I knew I could find a job in the field not because I like it…I am failing miserably in interviews. All my friends are going on doing what they love and I’m just…here.”

Yoongi looks amused for a second before his soft smile returns,

“Isn’t being here enough?” he asks.

Is it? You think to yourself, is it really?

“Are you happy y/n?”

Woah, that’s a loaded question. You chew on your lips instinctively, deciding how you should answer this—if you should answer this.

“Life is a bit complicated right now.” You laugh awkwardly.

Yoongi laughs too, he nods his head in understanding.

“Even with complications, you can still find moments where you’re happy, right?”

You feel yourself becoming drawn to Yoongi’s wise and understanding nature, his words creating a warmth in you. You feel like you’re actually making a friend.

“Yeah, you’re right.”

“You just gotta find the small things in life to be grateful for and eventually each small moment will add up and create big moments of happiness for you.” Yoongi smiles then stands to his feet and heads towards the trashcan to throw your trash away. While he’s gone for the few seconds he’s away, you sit back in your chair and think.

What’s complicated in your life right now? Well, you can’t find a fucking job to save your life, you’re afraid you wasted four years of college on the wrong degree—but what’s the right degree? You and Jungkook are the definition of the word ‘complicated’ and you’re afraid you’ll be stuck in unrequited love forever. But you have good friends, you like your coworkers and your job for the most part, you live in a good apartment, your parents call you regularly, you found a lady bug on a flower this morning, the list goes on!

Yoongi sits back down and folds his hands in front of him, he looks up at you with expectant eyes.

“Well?”

“Well, what?”

“Tell me more about you.”

You’re about to say something when realization hits you,

“How much were the ice creams?! They’re my treat, remember?” you quickly unzip your purse and pull out your wallet, fully ready to hand him some cash when he’s shaking his hands in front of him, denying you.

“No no, it’s okay, really.” Yoongi ushers you to put your wallet away, his smile brightens and you find yourself slumping in your chair in defeat.

“Fine.” You huff out dramatically.

“You can pay next time.” He looks down at his hands as he smiles to himself.

“Oh? There’s a next time?”

“Yeah, hanging out with you is fun y/n. I don’t want to just see you when I buy cookies...coming to see you is getting expensive.” He laughs into his shoulder.

“I just think you really have a cookie addiction.”

“Something like that.” He looks into your eyes for a moment before tearing them away to look back down at his hands. “Do you have any siblings?”

“Nope. But I have a lot of cousins, so it almost feels like I didn’t grow up lonely.”

“Your parents didn’t want to have any more kids?” Yoongi pries further.

“Actually, they weren’t supposed to have kids at all. I was there miracle baby, as they call it.” You laugh into your hands, “It feels ridiculous saying that out loud myself.” You laugh some more.

“Miracle baby, huh?” Yoongi teases. “Are your parents still together?”

“Hm? Oh yeah, they are.”

You parents are in a great, functioning relationship so why is it so hard for you to get into one?! “Are yours?”

“Nah, divorced.” Yoongi says with no bitter tone in his voice.

“Oh. I’m so—”

“Nah, it was for the best. Nothing dramatic happened they just weren’t meant to be.” He smiles at you and you nod your head.

You’re about to speak up again when you feel someone’s hand grip your shoulder and your name being called out. You know this voice. No, it can’t be. Jungkook.

“y/n?” He looks at you with confused eyes as he looks between you and Yoongi.

Jungkook is standing here next to your fucking table with his fucking girlfriend who is not his girlfriend, fucking Vanessa. She looks at you with a bored expression and tilts her head to the side.

“Hey.” He smiles at you but then looks at Yoongi again, “Uh, hey man. I’m Jungkook.”

Yoongi watches as you sit here with your mouth wide open, but he’s quick to shake his head and look up at Jungkook and introduce himself.

“Yoongi.”

Vanessa doesn’t waste her time in greeting anyone, she just taps her skinny little fingers on the table and whines into Jungkook’s ear about hurrying up.

“You guys wanna sit with us? There’s like no other tables.” You cannot believe your own ears as you offer that to them. Vanessa visibly frowns and rolls her to the side as Jungkook reacts just the opposite.

“Really?” his bunny grin taking over his whole face. You nod your head and gesture for him to go order his ice cream. He takes Vanessa’s hand and they head towards the line.

“Sorry for inviting them…I didn’t think.” You admit softly to Yoongi but he doesn’t seem mad. Not at all.

“A close friend of yours, I’m assuming?”

“Very.” You place some loose strands of hair behind your ear, you awkwardly laugh and begin pulling at the ends of your hairs. A nervous tick of yours, for sure.

“I see.” Yoongi smiles that fucking smile, like everything is okay. But is it? You don’t want to be in the same fucking room as Vanessa. But you’re giving her a chance for Jungkook’s sake.

“We aren’t really going to sit with them are we?” Vanessa’s smooth voice fills Jungkook’s ears as they wait in line.

“Why not? Plus she’s right, there’s like, no other tables.” Jungkook tries to reason.

“Why not? You cannot be ser—” she tilts her head, blinking at him, “Oh? You are? Also, you’re not worried about who this guy is? My Jungkookie isn’t feeling jealous is he?”

“Vanessa stop. It’s probably a friend from work or something.” He says nonchalantly.

“Maybe it’s a date.” Her silky voice annoying him.

“If it was a date why would she invite us?” he tries to reason again.

Vanessa tilts her head again and puts a finger to her lip, “Maybe she wants a foursome?”

“Stop.” Jungkook warns.

“I’m just trying to help you.”

You move to the other side of the table and sit next to Yoongi, you two bumping shoulders and you feel like a third grader with how giddy the action is making you.

“We’re here!” Jungkook announces excitedly. He lets Vanessa sit first and then he’s pulling out his own chair to sit in, right across from you.

“So Yoongi, how do you know our y/n?” Jungkook grins with all his teeth.

“I—”

“He’s a customer at work—”

“Yeah, I like to go to her bakery.”

Jungkook raises a brow, “Yeah the treats are good I guess.”

“Well, I don’t just go for the cookies.” Yoongi says, looking in your direction.

“Oh?” Jungkook sets his cup of ice cream down, “Oh.” He says again once realization hits him.

Vanessa glances up from her phone and smiles a smile that is void of all emotion at you and Yoongi, she sets the phone down and claps her hands softly a few times.

“So this is a date.”

“No—”

“Yes.”

You snap your head towards Yoongi with a shocked eyes. Did he just say this is a date? Then he’s smiling at you with apologetic eyes.

“I mean, I would like it to be.”

Your head immediately faces forward to see Jungkook’s reaction. He looks as shocked and confused as you, you begin shaking your head.

“Uh…um…” you say, your eyes still on Jungkook. He looks between you and Yoongi then he frowns. Fucking frowns!

“We can discuss that later.” You finally say, laughing awkwardly. Jungkook turns towards Vanessa and glares at her, fucking glares.

“What?” She mouths innocently, going back to her phone.

“Anyway,” you try to break the awkward tension, “I think me and Yoongi are going to head out actually.”

“We just sat down?” Jungkook looks at you with his big, stupid doe eyes and you almost want to stay but you know what’s for the best.

“I’ll walk you back to the store?” Yoongi asks from beside you.

You nod your head in agreeance, standing to your feet while Yoongi follows. Jungkook stands up too, not ready for you to leave.

“I’ll see you later?” Jungkook asks with pleading eyes.

You hesitate for a moment but end up nodding your head in approval.

“Uh, bye Vanessa.” You force out, your voice a little loud as you bid your farewells to her.

Vanessa continues tapping on her phone but uses one hand to wave you off.

This fucking bitch. What does Jungkook see in her? You just don’t see the appeal? Yeah, she’s gorgeous. But is that all I takes for Jungkook?

“Yeah, okay.” You roll your eyes and Jungkook looks at you sympathetically. He will scold Vanessa later.

You and Yoongi take it slow walking back to the bakery. You two walking idly, and stopping by other shops just for the fun of it.

“About what I said earlier…I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable.” Yoongi is messing with a scarf on the mannequin inside this little boutique.

“You didn’t. I was just…surprised is all.”

“Is Jungkook like, your ex-boyfriend or something?” Yoongi doesn’t waste any time apparently. “Because you guys seem to have some history.” How can he tell you have history?!

“Sorry, I’m just a really observant person.” He chuckles.

“Um, no but we were best friends but some things happened and…” you hesitate to continue, “And…”

“It’s okay. Life has complications remember? But there’s still happy moments. So, tell me what’s not complicated about you two?”

“I love him.” you blurt out. “Wait, wait. I mean. Fuck. I mean—”

“That’s normal. He was your best friend, right?”

You sigh out in relief, your deep exhale heard throughout the whole shop.

“Exactly.”

“Are you still best friends?”

“That’s the complicated part.” You breathe out, “But does he still mean the most to me? Yeah.”

“I see.” Yoongi takes the scarf and wraps it around your neck, “I had someone like that too.” He smiles. “But I was in love with them.”

You choke on your spit, what is Yoongi…is he…does he know?

“Oh.” You decide to laugh, “But that’s not the case with me and Jungkook.”

“Never said it was.” He inspects the scarf around your neck, “You should get this,” he motions towards the scarf, “It looks good on you.”

“It’s summer time!” you laugh, “But thanks.” Your phone starts buzzing, you pull it from your back pocket to get a look at it.

Jungkook 7:42pm

Hey

Jungkook 7:42pm

Wanna come over later? Nick isn’t home

Jungkook 7:42pm

I know you said no solo hang outs but I thought I would give it a shot

Does this mean he’s ending his night early with Vanessa? If so, you may throw the whole rule away about no solo hang outs. You just cannot stand her. You don’t want to say you hate her but you do hate her attitude and honestly, overall personality.

You look over to Yoongi who is messing with the material of some cardigan, and you almost feel bad if you decide to ditch him. But your night was ending anyway, right?

y/n 7:45pm

hmm, sure. I’ll be over at 9, does that work?

Jungkook 7:45pm

Yes.

You slide your phone back into your pocket and head towards Yoongi and his new cardigan that you are assuming he is buying consider how smitten he looks with it.

“It’s nice, right?” he says holding up the piece of clothing.

“Try it on!”

“Don’t forget to come by the record store sometime y/n, since you’re a human being who loves music.” Yoongi chuckles, he leans forward and you share a cute yet awkward hug.

“Bye Yoongi. I’ll def be by.”

You unlock your car and step inside, sitting down. Yoongi shuts the car door for you and smiles and waves you goodbye as he starts heading towards his own car.

Tonight was nice, weird, then nice again. You definitely won’t use Yoongi to distract yourself from Jungkook but you definitely feel like you made a friend. He gave you some words of wisdom and comfort, that you really needed to hear. You feel like Yoongi could become someone important in your life.

~~~~~

Jungkook 9:14pm

When will you be here?

y/n 9:15pm

be there in 15.

Jungkook steps out of the shower, his towel hanging dangerously low around his hips as he takes a look in his fogged up mirror.

“You can do this.” He tells himself, his teeth catching his bottom lip.

He can hang out with you like things are back to normal. He can hang out with you like you guys are still just best fucking friends. But he hasn’t seen you since you were sick, since you had your hand in a dangerous place. Since he dreamed of you while in bed with you.

He can be normal. Like he didn’t fuck Vanessa and moan out your name the entire time. He groans and cringes just remembering that. Vanessa assured him it was fine but that just makes him feel worse. He feels guilt ridden while she remains coy and sickingly sweet.

Apparently, Jungkook got lucky. But will it be this way with every girl he’s with from now on? That’s unacceptable.

Soft knocking can be heard from the front door and a chime from his phone goes off. You must be here, he thinks.

He doesn’t have time to dress so he decided to say fuck it and open the door this way, it’s not like you haven’t seen this view before…you lived together.

He approaches the door, taking a long, deep breath before he’s swinging it open and letting you in.

You’re wearing leggings and one of his t shirts, his chest tightens at the sight. Jungkook quickly apologizes for not being dressed and you nod your head slowly, taking in his more than half naked appearance.

You flush at the sight, his towel doing barely anything to cover the outline of his length, and shit, the towel is short on him…his monstrous thighs flexing underneath. Your mouth waters as you shamelessly eye him up and down.

“Yeah…” you choke out, “Probably should get dressed…”

You make yourself comfortable on the sofa in the living room, some random movie is on TV and you mindlessly watch.

“Sorry about that” Jungkook laughs. He walks to the sofa, sitting beside you but with enough space. “You got here sooner than I thought.”

“Well, I live pretty close.” You point out, your face angled towards him. “So what’s up?” “Nothing, I just wanted to see you.” Jungkook eyes light up, “Oh! I have wine!”

You nod approvingly, “Now we’re talkin’ baby.”

Jungkook rushes to the kitchen to find two wine glasses and fills them to the brim, he walks back to the sofa and hands you a glass.

“I know you said no one on one hang outs but thanks for coming.”

“I’ll make an exception this time” you wink, bringing the glass to your lips. You nod at one another as each of you take a generous gulp.

“Aaahhh, alcohol.” You say in unison. Then you look at one another and burst into a giggle.

“How were your plans?” you pry. You set the glass down between your thighs as you move your body to face him, giving him your full attention.

“Uh…” Jungkook doesn’t know what to say.

“It’s just…” the words die on his tongue. He sends them to the graveyard as he sits back on the sofa and shuts his pretty mouth.

“You guys didn’t have fun?” you pry further. You want to know, for some reason you want to know what him and Vanessa were up to.

“Did you guys like, hang out after the ice cream place?”

“Not really…we…kind of hung out but it was quick.” He says, rubbing the back of his neck.

“A quickie, huh?” you joke, but you wonder if that’s what it really was.

“y/n.” he warns, his hands go to massage his exposed thighs, his shorts doing little to cover all his muscles.

“I’d kill myself for a quickie, it’s been so long.” You decide to be honest, you’re trying to be like normal friends again.

Jungkook’s brows crease as he looks at you, “Don’t say stuff like that.”

“Right, sorry.” You pat his shoulder, “But really, it’s been forever.” You say again.

“Um, when was the last—”

“Taehyung.”

Jungkook’s frown deepens, “When’s the last time you spoke to him?”

“Maybe a week ago? He sends me texts occasionally.”

“You talk to him?!” Jungkook howls out, his hands gripping his shorts.

“It’s more like he talks to me.” You chuckle. “What about you? When is the last time you talked to him?”

“Umm…”

“What?”

“About a day after you told me everything.” Jungkook’s eyes slide to the side, a look of guilt plastered on his face.

“You went and talked to him after?” the shock is evident in your voice.

“Something like that…” Jungkook scratches the top of his head, deciding if he should tell you the truth. He decides to be honest.

“I went over there to kick his ass.”

“Jungkook!” you blink at him repeatedly, until you’re snorting. “And how did that go?”

“Gave him a black eye.”

“And you?”

“Got a busted lip from it.” He admits, even though you can tell he didn’t want to say that last part.

“Fighting is never the answer.”

“He deserved it, y/n.”

“And did you deserve the busted lip?”

“Yeah.”

You weren’t expecting him to agree with that so quickly, you were just joking around. You realize Jungkook is probably still trying to forgive himself, like he once told you.

“Well, everything’s okay now right?”

“Is it y/n?” he doesn’t look at you. He only stares straight ahead.

“Jung—”

“I am still so sorry…” Jungkook exhales deeply, his hand finds its way to yours.

You tangle your fingers through his, until they’re interlocked.

“I know, Jungkook.”

“I’m trying so hard to…” Jungkook faces you, his frown making you wince. “…make this right.”

“I know, Jungkook.”

“I’m trying to…” he chokes on his words, his breathing becoming slightly unsteady, “…work this out.”

“Jungkook—”

“I’m trying.”

His palm in your hand becomes so sweaty and you almost want to detangle so you can wipe your hand on your yoga pants. But you keep holding on to his hand, his guilt very apparent to you right now.

You scoot closer to him until your knees are touching, you place yours and Jungkook’s hands in your lap.

“And we’re making it work, we’re taking it slow.”

“It almost feels like our friendship has started over y/n.” Jungkook’s voice cracks, “Like, I don’t remember how to be like we use to be…”

“I told you Jungkook, things probably wouldn’t be the same.” You squeeze his hand in yours, “But that’s okay. We…”

Jungkook looks at you with his doe eyes and you want to melt. You want to melt into a puddle on the floor.

“It may not be the same but could it be better this time around?” Jungkook asks with pleading eyes.

“I hope so baby.” Your other hand reaches forward and caresses Jungkook’s cheek and he leans into your touch, he breathes out, his breaths hitting your palm and you feel yourself getting hotter.

“You rarely call me baby.” Jungkook whispers. “Only time you really did is when we—”

“When we what, Jungkook?” you challenge, your hard stare making him shiver.

“I don’t have to say it.” He says. “Look, wanna get fucking wasted?”

You look at him for a few moments, just staring into his eyes before you crack a smile.

“I dare you to chug your entire glass of wine.” You point at the wine glass with your chin.

“Only if you chug yours.” Jungkook winks.

“Wow, aren’t we some classy bitches?” you joke.

You both clink your glasses together and begin chugging the wine back, the bitter flavor making you wanna puke but you handle it just fine.

“Phew, that was something” you say, trying not to throw up. “wow I am not young anymore, or what?”

“Yup, you’re an old lady. I chugged it like a champ.” Jungkook grins, setting his glass on the table in front of the couch.

“If we aren’t tipsy within the next 5 minutes I am punching someone.”

“I’m starting to wish Nick was home now, I don’t want to fall victim to your fists of fury.”

After several more glasses of wine has been drank, you find yourself snuggling close to Jungkook on the sofa.

“I thought you said no affection.” Jungkook slurs out, teasing you.

“Oh? Should I move away?”

Jungkook pulls you by the arm, making your body fall forward into his side. Closer and closer.

“Never.” Jungkook lays his head on top of yours. “Wanna go lay in bed? More comfortable.”

“Yes yes, sleep over.” You cheer drunkenly. Jungkook stands up and helps you to your feet as well. You fall forward into his arms and he has to half carry you to his room.

Jungkook has the same blue comforter on his bed and it brings you back to a million memories. You wonder how many times Vanessa has been tangled up in this blanket? You don’t even want to ask Jungkook if the sheets are clean…you don’t want to think about him with her.

“Come lay with me.” You slur out as you slip between the sheets. “I want to cuddle.”

“Coming, just gonna grab some water for us.”

“Kay” you respond lazily.

You look around Jungkook’s room, it looks exactly as his last room in the apartment you two shared. Somehow that makes you happy, like not much has changed.

“Okay, drink this.” Jungkook is nudging a glass of water between your lips but you refuse.

“Mm mm.” you shake your head.

“Be a good girl for me.” Jungkook says in a low voice, you blink up at him, opening your mouth to drink the water.

“Good.”

He sets the water down on the nightstand and sinks into bed with you, leaving the lamp on so there’s a nice, warm glow lighting up the room. You immediately snuggle close, your head nuzzling his chest.

“So…was that a date tonight?” Jungkook finds the drunken balls to ask you, finally.

“No.” you answer honestly. “But it could turn out that way.”

You don’t know why you say that. Maybe in hopes to make Jungkook jealous? But why would he be jealous?

“How so?”

“He’s a nice guy.”

“Pshh, I’ll be the judge of that.”

“He is, Jungkook.”

“So you give any nice guy a chance?” Jungkook slurs out. “I can be nice…” he says, barely above a whisper.

“Tell me 3 nice things then.” Your hand lays rest over his stomach, you rub circles on it and he sighs out.

“You’re…” Jungkook bites down on his bottom lip as he thinks, “Really beautiful.” He turns to lay on his side to face you. “Really smart.” His breaths are mingling with your own. “And really funny.”

“What generic answers.” You laugh. “But I’ll take them” you look up into his eyes, they’re dark and beautiful. “Should I compliment you too?” you ask, your drunk mind giving you confidence.

“Yes please.”

“You’re really, like really fun to be with.” Your fingers brush some of his hair out of his eyes, “You make me laugh a lot. And I think you’re really sexy.” You chuckle.

“Sexy?” he slurs out, licking his lips over and over as he watches you nod your head.

“Yeah.” Your hand goes back to his stomach, your fingers go under his shirt, brushing your fingers over his sensitive skin and he releases a long breath as he slowly closes his eyes.

“y/n…” Jungkook whines out quietly, his erratic breaths not going unnoticed by you.

“You like being touched by me?” you whisper.

“Yes.”

You know you are both too drunk right now but you cannot help but continue.

Your fingers dip lower, caressing his lower belly, your touch so light he almost doesn’t feel it. But he does feel it. He feels it.

That same hand crawls up his chest and goes behind his head, gripping a handful of hair and slightly tugging his locks, Jungkook whimpers at the feeling.

Jungkook’s hips rut forward and you feel yourself getting hotter. Jungkook has his eyes screwed shut when you tug his hair again, this time pulling his head back to expose his throat.

Your other hand reaches up and with your pointer finger you drag it from his lips down his throat until you reach his collar bones then you slowly, very slowy drag that same finger down his chest and his toned stomach.

Jungkook tries to steady his breathing but he can’t. Your own breathing not much better. You decide to retreat both hands back to your sides when Jungkook’s eyes shoot open.

He looks down at you, his eyes dark and dreamy.

“You think you can just tease me like that?” Jungkook’s voice is the lowest you’ve heard it. “Huh, y/n?”

Your name slips past his lips in a low, seductive tone and you can’t help but squeeze your thighs together. You’re drunk, you keep reminding yourself. You should stop this. But—

“What are you going to do about it Jeon?”

Jungkook glares at you before he’s smirking, his hands circle around your waist and he pulls you into his body, your chest flush against his. You feel his hard length against your stomach and you swear right then and there you become undeniably wet.

Jungkook just stares at you, stares into your eyes, stares at your lips until he’s breathing so erratically. Your harsh breaths hit his skin and he leans forward until his forehead is touching yours. Your lips so close yet so far.

“We’re drunk.” He slurs out, but there is amusement in his voice.

“Drunk people do things they’re not supposed to all the time.” You tease.

Jungkook’s go from your waist to your hips real quick, he pulls them closer to his crotch. You feel how hard he is at your center and you want to moan out right then and there. The clothed contact feels so fucking good.

“Jung—”

Jungkook desperately brings you in close, his lips connecting with yours. His mouth is warm and moving against yours messily and aggressively. You pause the kiss to moan but then dive right back in. He ruts his hips forward, you feel how desperate he is and you find yourself grinding your hips into his. The pleasure on a whole other level, his clothed cock rubbing against you so deliciously.

His tongue finds its way into your mouth, he plays with your tongue, tangling them together. You continue to moan out, your hands exploring the front of his body until you hand finds its way back into his hair. You know he loves to have his hair pulled, you do. You tug it gently at first, he disconnects his mouth from yours to groan out. Then you’re pulling it a little harder and he’s rutting against you faster. He guides your head to expose your neck to him and he begins sucking bruises, leaving his pretty art work behind.

“y/n.” your name gets dragged out between his teeth and you swear you become even wetter. You yank his head forward until his lips are on yours again, you kiss him over and over until he’s begging to be touched.

But you don’t touch him, no. You just continue to kiss him, like your life depends on it. Your lips move from his mouth to his neck, you suck on his skin as he whimpers out.

Jungkook’s hands grab a hold of your ass, grinding you closer into his crotch and you moan at the feeling. You never knew this much action with clothes on could feel so fucking good.

“Love this ass.” He massages your cheeks and gives them a light spank. You whisper his name over and over, your lips attacking his neck again. You two move desperately against one another, he finds your lips again and kisses you wet and sloppy and you couldn’t be more turned on.

And next thing you know the sun is making its way through his blinds and it’s morning. You’re dead asleep in Jungkook’s arms. The boy snoozing away as well. You two completely oblivious to last night’s adventures.

You begin to open your eyes, taking in your surroundings. That’s right, you’re in Jungkook’s room. You look all around the room until your eyes land on him. You smile softly until you see it. A purple bruise blooming on his neck…several in fact. And last night’s events hit you like a fucking train.

You quickly sit up in bed, panic filling your body when Jungkook begins to stir in his sleep, your action waking him up. He opens his own eyes and sees you staring down at him.

He notices his own evidence of his attack on your neck and goes pale. Then he says the words you’ve been thinking.

“Oh fuck.”

[sirskinwalker]

Title: Truth or Dare

Fandom: Sanders Sides

Ship: Prinxiety (Roman x Virgil)

TW/CW: N/A

Original Prompt: Virgil knows how to sew, and he hand-made his puppet in the Puppet Vid. He may or may not have some plushies of animals who bear resemblance to each side.  

Prompt Credit: @chaoticandidioticsidesaus 

Story:

It has been a very tiring day for Virgil. Roman is being an ass, Logan is being a smartass, and Patton… Well, Patton hasn’t done anything wrong.

In the end, Virgil is exhausted, anxious, and wants nothing else than to be away from the others and to just chill out in his room, watching Disney movies with his comfort pillows and stuffed animals.

After a moment, Virgil picks himself up from the living-room couch, and starts to drag himself to his room. Before he can fully escape inside, though, Patton begins to call after him. When the anxious side doesn’t respond immediately, he hears Morality telling off the Creative and Logical sides for being rude and inconsiderate of the people around them.

Although it was meant to be a nice gesture, it had the opposite effect. Instead of appreciativeness, Virgil instead feels annoyance. He doesn’t need someone to defend him, nor does he want to start a situation between them. It’s just better to leave it be, Virgil thinks.

Slipping behind his dark purple door, he takes a deep breath. He closes the door slowly behind him, pushing until he hears a soft click. Moving hastily, he makes his way to his bed, where a box that is filled with an assortment of coloured yarn and crochet needles sits, just barely peeking out between the tons of pillows.

Carefully, he picks up a project he had spent the last few days working on. A small black cat, with bright purple eyes and stripes. Virgil works quickly and efficiently, and with each stitch he does another worry fades away. Being so caught up in his work, he doesn’t hear someone knocking on his door. Or he does, and he just doesn’t care. 

Virgil doesn’t bother saying anything when Roman tries to apologize for calling him paranoid. He stays silent when Logan tries next. They aren’t worth his time right now. 

~~~

Hours pass, and Virgil is left staring at the plushie he has made. It’s purrfect, he chuckles. He admires the crocheted cat in his hands a minute longer, happy and proud of himself. Then he kisses the animal on the head softly, before uncrossing his legs and standing up from where he sat on his bed. 

Virgil’s back pops loudly, and his legs ache. The anxious side doesn’t let this ruin his good mood, though. He just smiles, and walks over to his desk. He is greeted by a familiar sock puppet, along with all of his other hand-made puppets. 

A black raven is perched upon a stack of books, with a striped tie and thick glasses. A German Shepard with a red sash with gold accents defends an ever-growing eyeshadow collection. A pastel blue bunny with hearts on its cheeks looks up at him happily.And a yellow snake with emerald green eyes curls around a dark green octopus with mischievous grin and black sash. 

Placing the black cat amongst the other animals, Virgil felt light, light and happy. Only when his stomach growls does he realize how hungry and dehydrated he is. Though they had passed like minutes, Virgil realizes that hours have passed, with no breaks for food or water. He curses himself before sneaking out from his room, silently hoping that the others are off in their rooms, or at least somewhere they won’t notice him. 

Virgil makes it to the kitchen without being caught, and only when he grabs a water bottle and ham does he notice someone watching. He almost drops everything in his arms in surprise, but manages to collect himself before that could happen. He turns to come face-to-face with Roman, who still has a stupid smirk on his face at being able to spook Virgil. 

“Need something, Sir. Sing-A-Lot?” Virgil growls, taking a glance at the prince in annoyance. He grabs the rest of the stuff to make a sandwich, not stopping to wait for a reply.  “I want to apologize,” Roman starts, watching him. “I tried knocking earlier, but you might have been asleep. I’m sorry for calling you the bad guy, and paranoid. I was being a dick without good reason.”

Virgil looks up and stares into Roman’s eyes. He searches for any trace of dishonesty, but only finds true guilt. 

The anxious side shakes his head, as he says: “I accept your apology. Now, if you would leave me alone, it would be great -”

“Virgil!” Patton bounces into the kitchen, a bright smile on his face. His smile wavers as he looks between the two others, a silent question on his face. 

“We’re okay now, Patty Cakes,” Roman answers, giving a nod for him to continue. 

“Oh! That’s good,” Patton’s smile comes back, somehow brighter than before. “I was going to invite you guys for a game!”

Virgil bites into his sandwich, hiding his frown. He casts his eyes down, “that would be great, but, uh, I have something already…” he trails off. The anxious side glances up, and regrets his words immediately. 

Patton’s eyes are filled with disappointment, and Virgil swears he sees tears forming. Roman seems to notice, too, because he quickly speaks up, saying: “you’ve been in your room already, Stormcloud. You can take a break, can’t you?” 

Slowly, Virgil nods. He silently thanks Roman for the save, and lets Patton drag him by the sleeve into the living room. There they join Logan, who stands up once he sees Virgil.

“It’s cool, Logan. I accept your apology.” 

The logical side nods and sits back down, relaxing. “So, what are we going to play?” He asks as the others sit down around him. 

“I was thinking Truth or Dare,” Patton responds, looking around the room in case anyone has a different idea. When everyone was in agreement, he started, asking Logan, ‘truth or dare’? Rounds pass quickly, and Virgil is smiling and giggly. When Roman asks, “truth or dare,” he responds quickly, choosing dare. 

“Show us a secret talent.”

Virgil pauses. His eyes widen a little in surprise, but before he can change his mind he gets up and goes into his room. The others look between each other, thinking that he just ditched, but understand when he comes back.

In his arms are the plushies he had made for them. Patton squeals, and Logan gives a rare smile. Roman’s mouth drops, and his face holds an emotion unreadable. 

Virgil passes the stuffed animals around, laughing as Patton proudly announces: “I’m naming her Sugar!” 

“I love them.” Roman whispers, stroking the German Shepherd’s back slowly. Virgil blushes, hiding his face with his jacket as he shakes his head at Logan. 

“Keep them,” He says, stopping Logan from giving him the raven back. “He’s yours, now. I kept meaning to give you them, but I kept thinking you were going to hate them. So, they just stayed on my desk.” 

“Thank you, Creepy Cookie,” Roman speaks quietly, standing up and kissing the Anxious side on the cheek. “I love that smile of yours almost as much as the German Shepherd.” 

[kpopfanfictrash]

Pride and Fidget Spinners (M)

Author: @kpopfanfictrash , as part of the You’ll Never Shop Alone (YNSA) collaboration with @underthejoon and @suga-kookiemonster

Creative Content Contributor: @underthejoon, for this amazing banner

Rating: 18+

Warnings: oral (female receiving), dirty talk, big dick (it’s seokjin, duh), everyone in this fic is a brat, seokjin talks about fair lending

Genre: Rom-Com / Smut / Enemies to Lovers

Word Count: 18,623

Summary:   Seokjin has always prided himself on being the top mall kiosk salesman. His turf, the spot nearest to the fountain, is due to him being the undisputed best in the game. At least, until you arrive and throw his world into chaos.

[ cross-posted to Wattpad here ]

I GET KNOCKED DOWN, BUT I GET UP AGAIN 

YOU ARE NEVER GONNA KEEP ME DOWN

I GET KNO –

SLAP. Seokjin’s hand finds the buzzer, tuning off his alarm to burrow further under the covers. Sunlight streams through the open windows, pricking the back of his eyelids but Seokjin refuses to look. He can sleep for five more minutes. Five more minutes will not kill him.

Somewhere else in his apartment, a bedroom door slams. Wincing, Seokjin pulls his comforter higher. His roommate, Min Yoongi, spends most of his time annoyed with the world – but especially in the morning, and especially before having coffee. Loud banging continues, along with the sound of facial products hitting the sink. Groaning out loud, Seokjin pulls a pillow over his face.

Unfortunately, he is now awake and unable to slip back into his dream. It was a good one, too. Something about Iron Man and that hot barista at the mall Taehyung is crushing on. Squinting into his pillow, Seokjin abruptly sits up and tosses this on the floor.

“Fuck!” he yelps, throwing up a hand.

Every day, Seokjin somehow forgets to close his blinds before sleeping. Groping his way into the bathroom, Seokjin ruffles a hand through mussed morning hair. Turning on both taps in his shower, he waits for the water to warm and stares at himself in the mirror.

Clapping both hands to his face, Seokjin drags down the side of his cheeks. Getting older is weird.

Before he can get too hung up on this fact, Seokjin steps into the tub. “I GET KNOCKED DOWN,” he sings, lathering himself with soap. “BUT I GET UP AGAIN!”

Once out of the shower, dried and with a towel wrapped around his waist, Seokjin wanders into his closet. The sight dims his spirits a bit, seeing rows and rows of neatly pressed suits. Seokjin stares them each down in turn, knowing blinking is a weakness.

Reaching past them, he sighs.

The one at the front is navy, pin-striped and stares at him mockingly. Seokjin remembers wearing that one on his first day of work, nearly three years ago. He remembers how proud his parents were of him when he called them on his way home.

Seokjin’s heart sinks at the memory. That first phone call overlaps with another, less pleasant one. The one after his company decided to move their programming center out of his city. Seokjin was not one of the engineers selected to go. He was – rather unceremoniously – let go.

Let go. Seokjin snorts at the memory. Let go is such a nicer way to say fired. Fired has the ring of burnt smoke to it; it stinks of crumbling foundations and all hell breaking loose. If a company wants to yank one’s livelihood out from under them, Seokjin at least feels they should have the decency to call it what it is. Let go.

Shaking his head, Seokjin pushes past the suit to grab a white button-down. It has been nearly six months since that second call. Four months since his severance ran out and Seokjin realized he needed a job. Three months and three weeks since he began working at the Fidget Funk – even thinking the name makes Seokjin wince.

If someone had told him three years ago that he, Kim Seokjin, with his fancy degree and multiple years of experience, would ever be working a glorified mall job, Seokjin would have laughed in their face. He would have asked what they were smoking and if he could share – and yet. Here he is.

Frowning at himself in the mirror, Seokjin zips up his pants. Perhaps the worst part is that Seokjin was not upset when he was ‘let go.’ He was not actually disappointed by the firing, which disappointed his parents even more. When Bob and Karen from HR sat him down in that tiny, white room and handed him a tiny, white packet, Seokjin could not stop grinning.

His colleagues thought he had been kept when he left the room. That is how much Seokjin hated that company. His pure joy at finally leaving was enough to make up for the sucky way it happened.

Honestly, Seokjin was not surprised when he was fired. His entire last year he worked there, Seokjin spent most of his free time designing apps on his phone. No wonder they let him go, come to think of it. He was hardly their employee of the year.

Grabbing both wallet and keys, Seokjin shoves these into his pockets. Stepping into the hall, he glances at Yoongi’s room. “Yoongi!” he calls. No answer. “Hey! Min Yoongi!”

Continued silence, apart from the harsh thud of bass.

Leaning a shoulder against the wall, Seokjin tries again. “MIN YOONGI!”

The door at the end of the hall opens, hitting the wall. “What?” With a yawn, Yoongi drags a hand through his hair. Bleached blond strands fall about his face. “You said 10:00 AM. It’s 10:01.”

“Right.” Seokjin looks at him pointedly. “But I need to have the kiosk set up by 10:30, or else Bertha gets pissed.”

Yoongi walks past him and frowns. “Who’s Bertha? I don’t remember you working with anyone named Bertha.”

“I don’t.” Seokjin shrugs. Today is one of the rare days their work schedules lined up and – amazingly enough – Yoongi agreed to carpool. “Bertha is the name of my fidget spinner display. She’s temperamental.”

Yoongi groans, shutting the door. “Dude, you need to get a hobby.”

“I do have a hobby!”

“Then, get a girlfriend,” says Yoongi, sliding his keys from the lock. “You have way too much free time on your hands.”

“Do not,” Seokjin mutters, shoving both hands in his pockets as they walk to his car. “I’m working on loads of stuff.”

“Oh, really?” Yoongi flips his phone. “Which amazing app is it today? Let me guess. The one which meows every time a cat comes near? Or, the one which ranks all the apps in your phone from most to least used? Or, maybe –”

“Hey!” Cutting him off, Seokjin pulls open his car door. “You left out Alliterate! The handy app which suggests words which start with the same letter as yours – for casual alliteration.”

Yoongi stares over the roof of his car. “Dude, who would buy that?”

“English majors. Dramatic teenagers writing letters in the eighteenth century.”

“Seokjin.” Yoongi slides into the passenger seat. “You don’t give a fuck about any of these ideas, and therein lies your problem.”

“Oh, really?” Seokjin sticks his keys into the ignition. The car is sweltering, baking from having been left in the sun all morning. “Unlike you and your SoundCloud rapping?”

“Exactly unlike me and my SoundCloud rapping.” Grinning, Yoongi buckles his seatbelt and looks over at Seokjin. “Speaking of which – I have a new track to play.”

“No.”

Turning on the engine, Seokjin winces when a red warning light appears. He apparently needs an oil change soon but – with what money?

“Yes.” Yoongi reaches out, already hooking up his phone. “Just these two hooks, okay? Tell me which one you like more.”

Twelve minutes later, Seokjin pulls into his unofficial parking spot at the mall. “Will you look at that?” he says, turning off the engine. “We’re here! Time to go sell those fidgets!”

Rolling his eyes, Yoongi pushes open the door. Shoving his white Auntie Anne’s visor further up on his head, he glances around. “You’ll be sorry,” he says, slamming the door. “You’ll all be sorry!” Yoongi yells at the empty parking lot.

Patting him once on the back, Seokjin walks inside. “You know that I like your music.” Seokjin shivers when they both hit the AC. “More than like it, in fact. You’re too good and you know it – your head is inflated, and I have to take you down a peg.”

Yoongi scoffs. “Yeah, because all this pretzel rolling is inflating my ego. I’m basically Kanye, pre-Kim. Or Kanye, post-Kim. Say what you will about the guy, he’s remarkably consistent about how good he thinks he is.”

Snorting, Seokjin quiets when they pass by Kay Jewelers. Both men swerve to avoid eye contact, since they never know when what’s-her-name will be working. Seokjin makes a face. He always forgets her name, but the Kay Jewelers girl is usually after the dick of someone in the mall. Both he and Yoongi have been on the receiving end of that hunt before.

“Alright.” Coming to a stop at his kiosk, Seokjin lowers his gym bag to the ground. “Here is where I bid thee adieu.”

Yoongi continues walking. “Bye.”

“BYE, BEST FRIEND!” Seokjin yells, waving as Yoongi crosses the food court.

Several heads turn, and Seokjin continues waving until his roommate is gone. Grinning, Seokjin returns to his kiosk. Unlocking the metal grating, he pulls this up to reveal a brightly colored display. The morning routine is standard. Inventory, balancing the register, ensuring all displays are functional. Each time he passes the front, Seokjin sees his name on the register.

The kiosk’s top salesman, three months in a row.

It might seem like a silly thing to be proud of, but Seokjin is at a point in his life where everything has gone wrong. Everything he does seems to become a failure and even though he hates this job and hates these fidget spinners (okay, that’s harsh – no one hates fidget spinners), at least he can succeed at this one, small thing.

Selling shit to people they absolutely do not need.

Leaning against the counter, Seokjin crosses an ankle to wait. The mall opens on weekdays at 11:00 AM, prompt. Some places are open earlier – like Java Joe’s, the coffee shop, and maybe the gym – but Seokjin’s kiosk is standard mall hours. Rubbing his eyes, Seokjin glances longingly in the direction of Java Joe’s, but there are only five minutes until the mall opens. He needs to remain where he is.

Pulling his phone from his jacket, he shoots off a quick text.

Seokjin: yo [10:55 AM]

It takes a moment for Namjoon to respond.

Namjoon: what do you want? [10:56 AM]

Seokjin: nothing!!! [10:56 AM]

Namjoon: … [10:56 AM]

Seokjin: ok fine [10:56 AM]

Seokjin: I’ll come clean [10:56 AM]

Seokjin: are you doing the morning shift at T-Mobile [10:56 AM]

Namjoon: …. Yes [10:57 AM]

Namjoon: why? [10:57 AM]

Seokjin: do u think… on ur next break… u could bring me some coffee?? [10:57 AM]

Namjoon: get it yourself [10:58 AM]

Seokjin: pleaseeee Joon?? I never ask you for anything! [10:58 AM]

Seokjin: Chad called in sick, so I’m here all alone : ( [10:58 AM]

Namjoon: sigh. Fine – can you hang on until 1? [10:58 AM]

Seokjin: : ( [10:58 AM]

Namjoon: ur the worst but fine, I’ll try to get away sooner [10:59 AM]

Seokjin: THANKS JOON [10:59 AM]

Seokjin: grande iced Americano, no milk [10:59 AM]

Namjoon: u wouldn’t treat Yoongi like this [10:59 AM]

Seokjin snorts, shoving his phone in his pocket. He absolutely would treat Yoongi like this – problem is, Yoongi rarely responds. He usually spends his work breaks engrossed in his music. If anything, Seokjin is the one who brings coffee to him.

The first two hours pass by at a glacial pace. Seokjin regularly looks at his watch, wondering why the day is moving so slowly. True, it is a weekday but there is usually steady traffic. Stay at home parents and high school kids with nothing better to do than spend their summers at the mall, drinking Orange Julius’ next to the fountain.

It took Seokjin two months to convince his boss to put in for this spot. Next to the fountain is prime mall real estate, since you need to pass by it in order to reach anywhere else. Which is why it is strange that Seokjin has had zero customers.

He is still frowning when Namjoon appears at his workplace, iced coffee in hand. Namjoon wears his T-Mobile manager uniform, complete with a badge which declares his name and title. Kim Namjoon, Assistant Manager.

“Two?” Seokjin fake gasps, holding out a hand. “All for me?”

“Nope.” Namjoon only gives one to him. “One is for me.” 

“Rude.” Seokjin sniffs, turning to survey the mall.

“What is? The fact that I brought you coffee?”

“Sure.”

Namjoon laughs. “What’s up with you today? You seem super distracted.”

Squinting at the fountain, Seokjin shakes his head. “I don’t know. Things have been so quiet today. Is there something going on? A deal at Woodbury mall, or something?”

“Hm.” Namjoon’s brow furrows. “Not that I know of, I – oh, wait.” He straightens, glancing across the food court. “When I was walking over here, I did see a new kiosk. Maybe they’re taking some of your customers?”

“A new kiosk?” Seokjin looks up in alarm. “Where?”

“There.” Namjoon points behind a browning, potted plant.

Seokjin peers in the direction Namjoon is pointing. In his line of vision stands a brand-spanking-new kiosk. The sides are all pristine, gleaming and white, with the kind of bright-colored accents designed to draw people in. Neat boxes of toys line the shelves, almost as pretty as Seokjin’s own display.

Groaning, Seokjin sinks to his kiosk. “Drones?” He glances at Namjoon. “How are fidget spinners supposed to compete with fucking drones?”

“Dunno.” Namjoon takes a sip of his coffee. “I first saw them this morning, but they’re getting pretty good business. Nearly tripped over their salesgirl on my way here. She’s cute,” he adds, glancing at Seokjin.

Seokjin glowers. “Cuter than me?”

“Maybe.” Namjoon shrugs.

“Impossible.” Seokjin glares in the direction of the kiosk. On one side, he can barely make out the shape of a worker and based on what he sees, Seokjin begrudgingly thinks Namjoon might be right. You could be cute.

Namjoon drains the rest of his cup. “Well. Gotta go,” he says cheerfully, clapping Seokjin on the back. “Breaks don’t last forever. Hope the rest of your day picks up.”

“Thanks,” Seokjin mutters. “Hope so, too.”

Namjoon leaves, returning the same way he came towards the T-Mobile store. Seokjin continues to glance at the competing kiosk, staring with envy at its remote-controlled helicopters.

Up until now, the competitive landscape at the mall has been easy. There is a guy on the second floor selling Proactive but other than that, Seokjin has never had real competition. Until now, it would seem.

Rather than be turned off by this fact, Seokjin tilts his head. The only reason he lasted as long as he did at his prior company is because of how competitive he is. Even if Seokjin does not care about the product, he still works tirelessly to be called number one. He should stop by and check out the competition – just to be certain there is no real risk.

Seokjin’s phone buzzes, revealing a text from his boss. Lisa will be here at 5:00 PM, meaning Seokjin only must hold out a few hours before he can see the new kiosk.

Only a few more hours until he knows what he is up against.

Lisa’s arrival at five means Seokjin is afforded a half-hour break. He uses this to grab food, bothering Yoongi at Auntie Anne’s before moving on. Dinnertime at the mall is typically crowded and Yoongi tends to throw mustard if Seokjin overstays his welcome.

Not wanting to ruin his button-down, Seokjin wanders in the direction of your kiosk. He eyes this as he approaches, finding the reality of the situation to be worse than he feared. The drones you stock are cool and what is more – they are all beautifully displayed. The stand might even rival Bertha.

Crossing both arms over his chest, Seokjin examines the kiosk. The products are neat, all of them aligned in carefully placed rows. The fingers on his right hand twitch, really wanting to touch the remote- controlled helicopters, but before he can move –

“Can I help you?” you ask, bright and cheerful. Seokjin flinches, gaze darting to you.

Fuck – seeing you up close, Seokjin’s jaw nearly hits the ground. You are gorgeous. There is no other word for it. The smile you give is infections; it makes him want to smile back. More than that – Seokjin finds himself wanting to be the reason for that smile, but no! Straightening his spine, Seokjin reminds himself that you are the competition.

Looking at you, his scowl deepens.

Your own smile falters. “Did you want me to take that one out?” you ask, pointing at the drone. “Show you how it works?”

Seokjin shrugs, as though he could not care less. “I’m not here to buy, actually.”

Now, it is your turn to look confused. “I – uh, okay.” You squint. “Then, why are you here?”

Seokjin realizes how creepy he sounds. In your eyes, he has wandered over, stared at your merchandise for a prolonged period of time and then announced he was not here to buy. A grade-A creep rivaled only by that one flasher who lurks in female footwear.

“Uh…” Backtracking, Seokjin jerks a thumb over his shoulder. “I work at that kiosk, actually. I’m Seokjin.”

Unimpressed, you glance in this direction. “Y/N. And – uh, okay?”

“I stopped by to say hello. And to see what you’re selling.”

As he speaks, you read the name of his kiosk. Your upper lip twitches as slowly, you return to looking at him. Seokjin is unnerved by your smile. For some reason, he has the sinking suspicion he is the butt of your joke.

“Oh,” you say, tone entirely different. “That kiosk. Brandi mentioned you.”

“Brandi?”

“My boss.” You wave towards the middle-aged woman on the other side of the kiosk. Seokjin thinks he has seen her around before. “She said you’ve been selling pretty well the past couple of months. Great job.”

Seokjin tries not to seem smug – there is an undercurrent to your tone which screams subterfuge. “I mean, yeah,” he says carefully. “Things are going pretty well for us.”

“Strange, then.”

“What is?”

“Strange that we’re doing so much better than you.”

Someone could scrape Seokjin’s jaw off the dirty, child-scuffed floor. You smirk at him, tapping two fingers against the pretty, floral sleeve of your tunic. If Seokjin did not know better, he would think you were flirting with him.

Except you just fucking insulted him.

“I…” Shaking his head, Seokjin’s voice is strangled. “Mall traffic has been slow this morning. No big deal. I guess once you’ve been around longer, you’ll know that.”

“Hm.” You purse your lips. “I don’t know – things have been pretty crazy for us today. We already ran out of a product. Wild, right?”

Seokjin’s mouth dries, his ears starting to buzz – all evidence of his pure hatred of you. Obviously. It could not be anything else.

“You ran… out of something? Already?”

Seokjin’s voice squeaks on the last word, making him cringe.

“Not bad, huh? Although, I guess once we’ve ‘been around longer,’” you mock with a grin, “we’ll get more lulls. Must be nice.”

In the face of his clear disbelief, you have the nerve to wink.

Seokjin begins to see red. “Yeah,” he croaks, recovering himself. “Beginner’s luck is nice, too.”

Your smile disappears. “How long is your break? I don’t think my kiosk could afford to have me gone for so long.”

Not looking away, Seokjin shoves the rest of his pretzel in his mouth. Chewing exaggeratedly, he watches you wince. “Sorry,” he mumbles around cinnamon-sugar bread. “Thanks for the reminder. I do need to be getting back. Can’t have my kiosk without its top salesman.”

Nose wrinkled; you continue to stare. “If that’s your idea of finesse, I think they can manage without you.”

“Please.” Seokjin gives you a pointed look. “I’m literally dripping with finesse.”

Your lips twitch, suppressing the gesture. Seokjin is impressed by your stoicism, since he knows he is a good-looking guy. That much is a non-debatable fact. Even if it were not, he can see by the way your gaze lingers, that you like what you see. And still – when your gaze returns to his face, your expression is artfully composed.

Fuck, Seokjin realizes. You really are going to be competition.

“Is that all?” Blithely, you turn. “Did you just stop by to see how much better we’re doing?”

Seokjin scowls at your arguably perfect behind. “I came to see how much product you have left, yeah.”

Glancing over your shoulder, you grin. “Why? Worried we’ll sell out before you can buy?”

“No.” Undercutting his conviction, Seokjin glances again at the helicopter. “I’ve got my hands full, thanks.”

“Ri-ght.” You draw out the word. “Then, you should probably get back to the, uh – Fidget Funk.”

Seokjin’s ears turn red with embarrassment. “I will,” he blurts, spinning around on his heel. “You have fun at the Drone Dome – fuck,” he mutters, coming to a stop. “That’s actually such a cool name.”

Without waiting for a response, he stalks away. All the way across the food court, your laughter rings out behind him. Upon reaching his kiosk, Seokjin glances over his shoulder. You are not paying attention to him, already engaged with another customer and Seokjin’s stomach slowly sinks.

He might be in trouble – and in more ways than one.

Seokjin arrives the next day ready for battle.

Before, he was unprepared – caught off guard by your wily ways, but no longer! He is Kim Seokjin, crusader of goals and defender of the kiosk. The fact that Seokjin does not care about fidget spinners does not matter. They are his unfortunate chosen weapon and so, he will die upon this metaphorical sword.

Leaning against his kiosk, Seokjin spins a toy in one hand. Smiling and nodding at everyone who passes, he tries not to seem creepy or make eye contact for too long. This is the number one rule of kiosk sales – be deliberate, but approachable.

Most kiosk salespeople fail here, never ascending past the first stage of selling. They leer at shoppers, approaching women with earbuds in, or spraying perfume without asking. Not Seokjin. Seokjin is the very image of class, one ankle crossed over the other.

Seated at the food court is a large group of collegiate girls. At least, Seokjin assumes this based off one girl’s University sweatshirt. They sit clustered around Starbucks drinks (a slap in the face to Java Joe’s!), giggling every so often and glancing at Seokjin. Despite knowing they see him, Seokjin pretends not to care. Every so often, he pushes a hand through his hair and angles himself in the light.

Eventually, he knows one will come over and when they do, Seokjin will whip out the charm. A shadow steps into his path, blocking the sunlight.

Seokjin frowns. “Get out of the way,” he says, bored. “I almost have a sale.”

Arms crossed; you glance over a shoulder. The group of girls glare at you, clearly perturbed at having their view interrupted.

Snorting, you return to Seokjin. “Oh, please. So, what – you’re a pedophile, in addition to creep?”

Jerking upright, Seokjin scowls. “I am not a pedophile. I’m just trying to make a sale.”

“Of what kind?” you ask pleasantly.

“Fidget spinners.”

“Hm. Could’ve fooled me.”

Shrugging, you take a long sip of your coffee. Seokjin tries not to linger on the way your lips wrap around the straw.

I don’t have to explain myself to you,” he says stiffly. “Now, move. You’re blocking my light.”

“Whatever,” you yawn, leaving. As you enter the food court, you give Seokjin an excellent view of your backside walking away. “We’ll still beat your sales target today, anyways!” you call back.

Glaring at your retreating head, Seokjin holds out for as long as he can before dropping his gaze to your ass. Waggling fingers over your shoulder, you disappear behind the potted plant. The college girls resume looking at him but now, Seokjin finds he does not care.

Really, he should be thanking you. As soon as you are gone, three of the girls wander up to his kiosk. Seokjin sells five fidget spinners in one hour, thanks to the jealousy your presence provoked. Rather than be pleased by this fact though, Seokjin becomes even more agitated. He does not like feeling in your debt.

The next time your shifts overlap, determined to get even, Seokjin switches tactics. He parks on the opposite end of the mall, necessitating he should walk by your kiosk. Yoongi complains about this, but Seokjin merely ignores him.

Slowing as he passes your kiosk, Seokjin waits for you to look up.

Both elbows leaned to the counter, you scroll casually through your phone. When your gaze flicks up, taking him in – you blink.

“Oh, come on,” you groan.

Waving to Yoongi, Seokjin veers in your direction. “Oh, hey!” He stops at your display, nonchalantly stretching his arms overhead. “Having a good morning?”

Gaze darting to his pants and back up, you almost seem flustered. “I – how tight are those jeans?”

Seokjin’s grin widens. “What, these old things?”

Turning around, Seokjin checks out his own ass, as though surprised by its appearance. He is rather proud of his legs, actually. There is a reason Seokjin spends so much time in the gym with Jungkook. His newly bought skinny jeans show off his best assets. Not to mention how satisfying it is to see you rendered speechless.

Your gaze returns to his, smoldering. “There’s a tag still in the pocket, genius.”

“Oh.” Grandly, Seokjin plucks this off – fuck, that just cost him an entire week of spending allowance. “Well, there you go. Wouldn’t want to distract from the view.”

Jaw clenched, you seem as though you want to say more, but hold yourself back. “Great.”

Seokjin smirks. “Isn’t it?”

Whirling around, you pretend to be busy but Seokjin can tell your register has already been counted.

“Shouldn’t you be getting back to your kiosk?” You glower, glancing over your shoulder. “I’d hate to waste any more of your time standing here.”

Seokjin’s grin broadens. “You’re right,” he agrees. “That’d be a shame. See you around, Y/N!”

Happily, he turns and walks back the food court. With each step his grin widens, imagining you watching him leave. The rest of his day is spent in lazy self-satisfaction.

As it turns out, Seokjin should have been warier. Your silence was not acceptance of defeat, but a determined self-call to arms. The very next day, Seokjin walks past your kiosk and nearly spills his drink down his shirt.

You stand off to the side, bent to display a generous amount of cleavage. Seokjin’s jaw drops, unable to look away. He realizes how inappropriate he is being when you look up and see him.

“Seokjin!” Straightening, you wave.

The action makes your breasts bounce, causing Seokjin’s pants to feel tighter.

Yoongi snorts at his side. “Good luck, man,” he says, patting Seokjin once on the back before walking away.

Seokjin is left alone, facing the wiles of his enemy.

“Hey,” you say, raising both brows. “Seokjin? Are you okay?”

Forcing himself to move, Seokjin walks robotically forward. He does not allow himself to look below your collarbone – fuck, you must be wearing a push-up bra. There is no other way a single day could cause such a dramatic transformation.

Unable to help himself, Seokjin sneaks another peek.

When he looks up, you are smirking at him. “See something you like?”

The tips of Seokjin’s ears turn crimson. “I – what?”

“The merchandise,” you say sweetly, waving a hand. “We just got in a few new toys over the weekend.”

Seokjin has no response to this, having momentarily forgotten what words are.

Your lips twitch. “Is something wrong, Seokjin?”

Seeing the teasing look in your eyes, Seokjin fumes. “Nothing’s wrong,” he says, jaw snapping shut. “I’ll just be on my way, then. Lots of… fidgets to spin.”

Turning around, he dramatically walks off.

He cannot help but feel oddly unsettled, throat burning in a way which does not make sense. Anger, he tells himself. The emotion is merely annoyance. It is completely natural he would hate his competitor. Natural, for him to think about what their lips would look like shut up by his.

It takes two weeks for Seokjin to enact the next phase of his plan. Which is – dramatic entertainment. Basically, phase two involves Seokjin researching fidget spinner hand tricks for hours at a time on YouTube. It reaches to the point where Seokjin is in near hibernation. Jungkook sends him texts every so often, asking when he will return to the gym, but Seokjin is a man on a mission and cannot be stopped.

He starts off slowly, learning the simple fidget spinner hand transfer. Next is the hand twist, rated Difficulty Level Two by the most known YouTube star. From there, learning the around the back is easy. This maneuver is more complex – it involves Seokjin physically throwing the fidget spinner over his shoulder to catch in the other hand.

Once Seokjin can control two fidget spinners at once, he deems himself ready.

Phase two goes into action on a busy Saturday afternoon. Seokjin hijacks the Fidget Funk’s speakers, hooking up his iPhone to the horror of his co-worker, Lisa.

“Oh, no,” she groans. “Please tell me you aren’t doing what I think you’re doing.”

“Are you thinking I’m doing a fidget spinner trick show?” Seokjin adjusts the sweatband on his forehead. “Alright, then. I won’t tell you.”

“God, how embarrassing.” Lisa slumps low in her chair. “Well, at least do it before Chad gets here.”

“Noted. What song should I use?” Seokjin flips through his playlist. “Hero by Enrique Iglesias? Whatcha Say by Jason Derulo? The Cha Cha Slide?”

Lisa stares in disbelief. “What vibe are you going for, exactly?”

“None of those?” Seokjin frowns. “What about All Star by Smash Mouth?”

“How about Cotton Eyed Joe?” Lisa offers. “That seems more fitting with all of… this.”

Ignoring her sarcasm, Seokjin selects a song to press play. The first notes of Everybody by Backstreet Boys plays through the speakers. Lisa groans and slumps even lower.

At first, no one notices Seokjin at all. People sidestep him, focused solely on getting to the food court but then, Seokjin executes a perfect shoulder throw. A kid stops to watch. His mom stops too, trying to drag her kid forward but failing in her mission.

“Hey!” Seokjin beams, switching the spinner from one hand to the other. “Want to see more?”

The boy nods and before long, Seokjin has managed to gather a small crowd. Over the ooh’s and ahs of children, Seokjin converses with their moms.

“Fidget spinners are proven to help concentration in both kids and adults,” Seokjin says with a hand twist. “One of my friends was telling me a story the other day. He and this AVP at his office are both tactile people and remember better while doing something with their hands. So, they end up having this entire meeting while playing with fidget spinners from her office.”

The moms all laugh, moving forward to let their kids pick out a toy. By the time the day ends, Seokjin has beaten all previous sales records. He has also managed to capture the attention of most people in the mall – including you.

And Namjoon, who stops by before closing.

“Dude,” Namjoon laughs, leaning one arm to his kiosk. “Why are you being so extra lately? It’s just a temp job. Who cares?”

“I care, Namjoon.” Seokjin bristles. “Is it so wrong to want to do well at my work? To want to improve the sales of my peers. Frankly, Namjoon, I’m insulted you would –”

“Hey, Kim!” you yell, passing by. “Heard you’re trying to break into show business!”

Seokjin abruptly stops talking. “Trying?” he calls back. “I’m already there. Were you able to catch a performance?”

Rolling your eyes, you walk backwards. “Of course, I did! The whole fucking mall saw you, Seokjin. Your music was so loud, people physically moved in the food court.”

Seokjin’s grin widens. “What’d you think?”

“I think you should stick to sales.” Shaking your head, you try not to smile. “Anyways, just wait until you see what we’re doing this weekend. It’ll make your lame tricks look like nothing!”

“Can’t wait!” Seokjin cups both hands over his mouth. “I love to watch lofty dreams come crashing down!”

Shaking your head, you turn around and disappear into the mall. Once you are gone, Seokjin returns to Namjoon.

“What?” he blinks, seeing his friend’s smug expression.

Namjoon’s smile widens. “Oh, nothing.”

“What?”

Namjoon merely laughs, grabbing his smoothie and turning away. “Good luck with that, man!”

Seokjin stares after, not understanding but deciding it is not worth his while. Namjoon always thinks he knows so much – granted, he usually does, but that is not the point. The point is Seokjin does not and so, he should not worry about it now.

The next day is busy, which means Seokjin barely has time to consider the performance you mentioned. He is again covering for Lisa, who failed to show up. Chad and Seokjin are the only ones covering the kiosk, which Seokjin despises because Chad is his least favorite co-worker. Lisa may be flaky, but at least her presence is tolerable. Chad is always going off on tangents about who wronged him on Twitter that day, and why.

Chad is also terrible at customer service – no surprise – which means Seokjin must handle all returns and exchanges. A tedious task in itself, let alone with Chad’s monotonous voice in his ears. In fact, the morning is so busy, Seokjin barely remembers to eat, let alone visit you.

It is the sound of cheers over the food court which make him look up.

Midway through a transaction, Seokjin pauses to glance at your kiosk. You and your Manager – Brandi – stand before it, navigating two competing drones in the air. It seems several people are betting on which drone will win.

Rolling his eyes, Seokjin returns to his customer. Smiling blandly, he hands the woman her money and ignores the wild cheers growing steadily behind him. It makes Seokjin’s teeth grind, realizing you might be drawing a bigger crowd than he did.

Unable to stop himself, he peers over his shoulder. Seokjin’s eyes widen. Above the food court, a helicopter loops circles around a remote-controlled plane. They no longer seem to be racing, dive- bombing the crowd and swooping up at the last second. Kids squeal in excitement, running around underneath.

Seokjin scowls, slamming shut the register. His mind revolts at the knowledge that your show is better than his – also, there is the maddening fact that Seokjin wants a drone for himself. Huffing under his breath, Seokjin turns away.

Before he can tell Chad he is going on break, a scream pierces the crowd.

“MOVE!” Seokjin hears your voice above the rest. “KIDS, MOVE!”

Seokjin whirls around, spotting the helicopter spinning out of control. Kids duck from its path, their hands held overhead as the helicopter sputters, dips and sputters again. Steam curls from its top, clearly not responding to the remote you hold in one hand.

Worse than that, the drone is headed in their direction.

“Chad, move!” Seokjin yells, diving out of the way.

Chad looks up just in time to see the helicopter crash into their kiosk.

Fidget spinners fly every which way. From his spot on the floor, several hit Seokjin in the back of his legs – he winces, curling into himself. Chad’s sputtering continues above as the slow whir of helicopter blades begins to wind down.

Seokjin hesitantly looks up. The kiosk above him is chaos. Nothing seems to be broken, but his carefully placed display – Bertha! – is entirely out of whack. Brightly colored boxes lie on the floor, shelving hanging precariously off the sides of the kiosk.

You dash into view, skidding to a stop inches away from his nose. “I’m so sorry!” you cry, a useless remote held in one hand. “I don’t know what happened, I swear.”

Your gaze darts to Seokjin’s, still lying prostrate on the floor.

He slowly pushes himself to stand, staring in shock at the disastrous kiosk. Seokjin expects to feel angry. He should feel pissed, since all his hard work was erased and now, he will have to spend several hours cleaning it up, but – nothing.

Well, that is not entirely true.

Seokjin wishes he could wipe that look of distress from your face. “It’s alright,” he says, still looking at you.

Surprise flickers over your expression.

Chad steps out from behind the kiosk. “Oh… my… god,” he says, eyes wide.

“I’m really sorry,” you repeat, face twisted in agony.

Before you can continue, your manager appears. “Go back to the kiosk, Y/N,” she says, sighing. “There are a bunch of customers to take care of. I’ll handle this.”

It appears you wish to say more, but a stern look from Brandi is silencing. Giving Seokjin an apologetic look, you turn on your heel to walk across the food court.

Brandi waits until you are out of earshot before looking at Seokjin. “I’m sorry about the disruption,” she offers.

Seokjin tears his gaze away. “It’s okay.”

“What?!” Chad stomps out to point a finger at Brandi. “It is not okay! You and your dumb drones wrecked our display!”

Brandi looks at his finger, unimpressed. She glances at Seokjin. “You can throw that helicopter away. If anything of yours has been damaged, let me know. We’ll pay for it – just send me an itemized receipt by the end of the day, okay?”

Seokjin nods, a bit thrown by the interaction. “Yeah, alright. Sounds good.”

Brandi looks at him thankfully, turning around to return to her kiosk. Once she is gone, Chad whirls on Seokjin.

“Man, what the fuck?”

Bending, Seokjin picks up a lone fidget spinner. “What do you mean, what the fuck?”

“They should’ve…” Chad trails off, shaking his head. “Done more. I don’t know. They should’ve cleaned up the whole area, or something!”

Seokjin snorts, replacing the toy on the counter. “Relax,” he says. “It’s not like anything is seriously damaged. We just need to re-stock the display and besides, they don’t know how to do that. It’ll be faster if we do it.”

“Even so,” Chad mutters. He begins cleaning up, casting an angry glance in the direction of the Drone Dome. “They should still fucking pay.”

“They will, if anything’s broken,” Seokjin says simply.

He then tunes Chad out, putting himself to work. Re-stocking Bertha takes a while but, in the end, Seokjin is happier with its order. He keeps thinking you will stop by after your shift, but you do not. Perhaps you are too embarrassed to do so, or maybe Brandi warned you not to go near them again.

Whatever the reason, Seokjin cannot leave before closing. When he finally passes kiosk on his way to the gym, everything is closed, and you are nowhere in sight.

Seokjin lingers a moment before he moves on.

SLAM.

Seokjin drops his barbells, the sound echoing through the gym in a satisfying way. Several women on the elliptical look up in annoyance.

“Sorry!” Seokjin calls, wiping sweat from his neck.

Although the women continue to glare, they return to their workout. Jungkook snickers into the sleeve of his t-shirt, biceps bulging beneath the tight fit of his clothes. Pulling a power bar from his pocket, Jungkook waves at the weights Seokjin discarded.

“Give me ten more.”

Seokjin glares. “Go choke.”

“Can’t.” Unwrapping his snack, Jungkook takes a large bite. “Told my current hook-up that was just for her.”

“Gross.” Seokjin groans, bending to grab the weights. “I didn’t need to know that.”

Jungkook grins, displaying chocolate and teeth. “Ten more,” he repeats.

Despite several muttered curse words under his breath, Seokjin obeys. Dropping the weights again on the floor – in direct defiance of the no weight-dropping sign – Seokjin grabs his knees with both hands.

“Alright,” he huffs, squinting at Jungkook. “I don’t care anymore if I’m in shape. I care more about snacks. Snacks and alcohol.”

“I’m choosing to ignore that.” Jungkook takes another bite. “I’m using one of my free guest passes on you, so you better be worth it.”

Rolling his eyes, Seokjin takes a long swig from his water bottle. Despite this, he still follows Jungkook as they walk to the treadmills. Jungkook is right, he is doing Seokjin a favor by letting him work out for free. Truth be told, Seokjin hated Jungkook when he first began at the mall. Jungkook was young, good- looking and got tons of attention – male and female, alike.

He was the competition.

Over time though, this distrust dissolved and somehow, Jungkook is now one of Seokjin’s closest friends. When he is not annoying the hell out of him, that is.

Throwing his wrapper in the trash, Jungkook wipes both palms on his pants. “So.” Stepping onto a treadmill, he turns the speed to three. “How’s it going with drone girl?”

Seokjin follows suit. “She knocked over my display today.”

“Like, on purpose?”

“Nah.” Seokjin shakes his head. “On accident. She was doing a demo and one of the helicopter drones broke. Crashed into my kiosk.”

“Oh.” Jungkook’s brow furrows. “Still – annoying. Increase your speed.”

Seokjin obeys. “Eh,” he huffs, beginning to jog. “I don’t think it was on purpose. But still, she’s just so frustrating.”

“What’s frustrating? Increase your speed again to four.”

“I don’t know,” Seokjin says, following suit. “She’s frustrating. She has this way of looking at me, you know?”

“Looking at you in like, a creepy way?”

“No…” Seokjin’s feet pound the treadmill. “She’s a tease.”

“Sounds hot.”

“She keeps messing with me.”

“You keep messing with her.”

“She made fun of my fidget spinners!”

Jungkook bursts into laughter. To add insult to injury, he barely seems winded at all by their run and Seokjin is panting.

“Dude. Fidget spinners suck. I’ve heard you say that on multiple occasions.”

“Sure, but she doesn’t have to say that!”

“Whatever, bro.” Jungkook grins. “Sounds to me like you want to fuck her.”

Seokjin is so startled, he nearly trips on the treadmill. “I do not.”

“No judgement here! Do it once, get it out of your system.”

“I don’t want to fuck her, Jungkook.” Seokjin glares in his direction. “She hates me. And I hate her!”

“O-h,” Jungkook says knowingly. “So, you’re in love with her. I get it. Increase your speed to five.”

Seokjin obeys, face turning beet-red. “Jungkook,” he growls. “Shut the fuck up.”

“Make me.”

Reaching out, Seokjin turns the speed on Jungkook’s treadmill to eight.

“Hey!” Jungkook yelps, breaking into a sprint. He manages to keep up, pushing a hand through his hair. When Seokjin rolls his eyes, Jungkook grins. “Nailed it.”

Seokjin returns to his machine. “Besides, you’re one to talk,” he mutters. “Aren’t you in love with the juice girl, or something?”

On reflex, Jungkook glances over his shoulder. Seokjin can tell by his lovesick expression he is right. Juice girl only started working recently at the gym and from what Seokjin can tell, Jungkook is entirely smitten. He has never been subtle about the women he likes, but with juice girl, Jungkook seems to have met his match.

She is completely immune to his charms. Seokjin cannot help but feel sympathy for the guy. Or – at least, he does until Jungkook returns to him with a grin.

“So.” He wriggles his eyebrows. “How hot is kiosk girl, anyways?”

“No.” Seokjin reaches out to increase Jungkook’s incline. “You’re not going to fuck my mortal enemy.”

“Well, if you’re not going to.”

“Think about juice girl!” Seokjin yells – entirely unintentional, but he is running out of breath.

Jungkook retaliates by upping his speed. By the end of their sprint, Seokjin feels like collapsing. He steps off his treadmill with wobbly legs, feeling as though he has just run a marathon. Not that Seokjin would ever run a marathon, of course, but he can imagine. Jungkook follows suit, hopping down from his machine.

“Good workout.” Jungkook wipes his forehead with a towel. “Wanna come over and hang? Hoseok from Foot Locker is gonna come, too.”

Seokjin nods, taking a sip from his water bottle. “Yeah, okay.” He glances again at the door, but your kiosk is too far to see. “Sounds good to me.”

As they walk towards the locker rooms, Jungkook chatters aimlessly but Seokjin cannot stop thinking about you. While he showers and changes, Jungkook’s words replay in his mind. The idea of Seokjin having a crush on you is insane. The two of you have barely exchanged one nice word since you met.

Still. Snapping a towel free from his neck, Seokjin continues to wonder. He does think about you an awful lot. Usually, he is thinking of new ways to annoy you, but that is more than he thinks about anyone else. Chad, for instance – or Lisa.

Frowning, Seokjin slams shut his locker. He cannot ignore the initial attraction he had for you. If you had not been his competition, Seokjin would have probably asked you out.

The moment he thinks this, he freezes. Maybe this is why you annoy him so much – Seokjin is attracted to you and can do nothing about it.

Under any other set of circumstances, this fact would be enlightening but things being what they are though, nothing has changed. You still hate him. Seokjin still finds you his competition.

Staring at his locker, Seokjin’s lips twist.

“Seokjin!” Jungkook yells from the door. “You coming, or what?”

Jerking himself free from his thoughts, Seokjin picks up his bag. “Coming!” he yells, pushing you from his mind.

Seokjin has the next two days off work. He uses this mainly to work on his apps, pouring time and energy into working the kinks from his latest round of updates. In between each stroke of his keyboard, he is thinking of you.

Seokjin hates Jungkook a little, for pointing out the obvious fact that he likes you. Before that, Seokjin took his fixation with you at face value. He did not like you; he was just annoyed by you. Now, though.

He cannot help but wonder.

Exhaling loudly, Seokjin slumps against his kiosk. His manager is off once again – honestly, that dude never works – and Seokjin is stuck working with Chad. Absently, Seokjin twirls a spinner around his finger.

“You okay, man?” Chad breaks the silence.

Shaking his head, Seokjin stares into space. “Oh, yeah. Just a bit preoccupied, that’s all.”

“With what?”

Seokjin shrugs, not feeling like talking.

Chad is one of the few people capable of getting under his skin without saying a word. It is something about the way Chad stands – chest puffed, gaze lazy, as though the world owes him something. He always wears a backwards cap, even inside and Seokjin suspects a receding hairline to be the cause. Whatever the reason, Chad always has a chip on his shoulder.

He seems to be compensating for something. Although what he could be compensating for, as a white male in today’s economy, Seokjin has no idea.

“Hey.” Voice lowering, Chad nods towards the food court. “I know something which might cheer you up.”

Seokjin straightens when he realizes Chad is staring at you. Anything which cheers Chad up could only have the opposite effect upon Seokjin.

“What?” Seokjin asks, suspicious.

Chad leans in. “You know the bitch who ruined our display a few days ago?”

Seokjin’s jaw tightens, hearing you called a bitch. “What about it?”

“Ha.” Chad laughs, not hearing the clear warning in Seokjin’s tone. “Don’t worry about paying her back. I got this.”

Alarm bells go off in Seokjin’s mind. “What do you mean by, ‘I got this?’”

“Let’s just say it’s taken care of.”

“No.” Seokjin drops his phone, standing up from his chair. “Let’s say more. What the fuck did you do, Chad?”

Chad blinks at him in surprise. “Whoa – chill, dude. What’re you pissed about?”

Seokjin pauses, uncertain. It is not as though he knows you, not really. But still – Seokjin remembers how sincere you looked that day, apologizing for the display. You did not mean to injure their kiosk; he knows that much.

“Chad…” Seokjin mutters in warning.

He does not get further before screams erupt from the food court. Seokjin’s head whips sideways, spotting the source of the commotion. Once again, a drone is loose in the mall. Like two days prior, a rogue helicopter flies over the food court. It seems out of control, dive-bombing people at random and sending them running.

Seokjin’s mouth drop. Before he can move, the drone careens towards the ground. A girl stands alone next to the frozen yogurt place, holding her cone and staring at it in terror. Her eyes widen, fixed on the drone and Seokjin moves on instinct, darting into the crowd.

Before he can arrive, the girl’s mom appears to yank her to safety. Her cone spills in the process, mint chocolate chip on the ground, but at least the helicopter misses, swooping and diving again. Seokjin’s eyes narrow, realizing the drone moves much too fast to be out of control.

Glancing around, Seokjin realizes Chad is on his phone. When he sees Seokjin looking, Chad waves at him with a grin.

Seokjin’s stomach heaves. Before he can move, you are barreling towards him.

“YOU!” you yell, pointing a finger. Several people between you look up in surprise.

Seokjin blinks, also pointing at himself. “Me?”

“You!” you gasp, skidding to a stop. “What the hell did you do to my drone?”

You are holding several remotes in your fist, Seokjin realizes. Apparently, none of them are working. The helicopter swoops dangerously close to you both and Seokjin ducks out of the way.

“What did I do?” he blurts, staring upwards. “You think I’m the one behind this?”

“No, shit!” you yell, dodging the drone.

“Y/N, I –” The chopper dive-bombs again and Seokjin groans. This is not going to make you believe him, but he needs to do something before someone gets hurt. “Fuck it!” he yells and takes off.

Sprinting away, Seokjin hears you yelling behind him. Ignoring you, Seokjin leaps onto a table. He is not sure how Chad is controlling the helicopter – possibly from his phone, but Seokjin would not put it past him to have someone stationed elsewhere in the mall. Based on the depth of his vengeance on Twitter, Seokjin imagines Chad to be petty.

All Seokjin knows is he needs to stop the drone and a sure-fire way of doing that is getting the drone from the air.

Above, the drone does a loop before dive-bombing a cluster of girls exiting the lingerie store. The girls squeal, scatting in every direction as the helicopter pulls from its spiral. Leaping into the air, Seokjin’s fingers barely brush a wing before falling back to the ground.

“SEOKJIN, GET BACK HERE!”

Ignoring you, Seokjin continues pursuing the drone. “Sorry!” he yells, dodging a woman. “Y/N, this isn’t what it looks like!”

Your footsteps pound behind him, catching up. “It looks like you hijacked one of your drones!”

“See!” Seokjin glances over his shoulder. “I told you it wasn’t what it looks like!”

“Huh?”

“Aha!” Seokjin leaps into the air. Fuck – he barely misses. Crashing again to the ground, Seokjin takes off running. He uses his next jump to leap onto a table.

A guy looks up from his hot dog, mustard dribbled onto his chin. “What the f –”

Seokjin leaps into the air, fingers grazing the wing of the helicopter. Eyes narrowed, Seokjin swears as his heels hit the ground. A mother nearby covers the ears of her child.

“Sorry!” Seokjin yells in response.

A hand grabs his arm. “Kim Seokjin!” you blurt, whirling him sideways to face you.

Seokjin glances over your shoulder in distress. “It’s getting away!” he blurts, shaking free to sprint towards the fro-yo.

Your mouth drops, but you follow. “What are you doing?”

Not having the breath to answer, Seokjin runs faster. For the first time in his life, he is grateful Jungkook pushes him so hard at the gym. Jumping again in the air, Seokjin thinks he has done it – until you jump suddenly in front of him, swatting his hand.

“Hey!” Seokjin yelps, stumbling as he hands. “What the fuck, Y/N?”

“Mine!” you yell, darting forward.

“Wait – Y/N!”

Grumbling, he chases after you. The two of you must look ridiculous, racing around the food court. As you pass Auntie Anne’s pretzels, Seokjin swears he can hear Yoongi cracking up at the register.

One second, you are ahead of him and the next, Seokjin is. He runs faster, pumping his arms as he spots the drone by the fountain. Cutting you off, Seokjin puts on a sudden burst of speed and leaps into the air. His fingers wrap around metal, yanking the helicopter from the sky. As he descends, Seokjin cannot help but laugh – until your hand finds his elbow, pulling him sideways.

Seokjin yelps, stumbling when his feet hit the concrete.

There is a dangerous, teetering moment where you both hover at the edge of the fountain – and then he falls, taking you with. Seokjin yelps, soaked to the skin when a water jet hits his face. A second splash follows as your butt hits the water.

If feels like a scene from a movie; that moment when a song cuts at a party. One second, everything is happening and the next – nothing.

Slowly, Seokjin pushes himself to sit in the water. The trickling sound of the fountain fills his ears, one of his hands resting on something which is definitely not a penny.

“Gross,” Seokjin groans, seeing the wad of pink gum.

His pants are soaked, so is his shirt and Seokjin does not even want to imagine the state of his hair. Removing his hand from the water gum, Seokjin looks up.

You glare back at him, making Seokjin recoil.

At least the drone is down.

Seokjin can see its red wings submerged in the water, bobbing genteelly in the waves of the fountain. Slowly, the sounds of the mall filter back in. Someone nearby snickers and someone else starts to clap. In his peripheral, Seokjin can see a few teenagers recording and slowly, he closes his eyes. If he goes viral, there is no way his manager will keep him.

You seem to realize the same thing, glancing around you in panic. Seokjin realizes your situation is noticeably worse than his, since you were wearing a white t-shirt when you fell. The material sticks to your skin, making each curve of your body apparent.

Seokjin swallows, understanding crashing into him with all the subtlety of a lightning bolt.

He likes you.

Fuck. Seokjin likes you, and he is a giant idiot.

Snickering at the food court grabs Seokjin’s attention. It appears he is not the only one to have noticed your shirt. At least your bra is white, but this does not seem to matter to fifteen-year-old boys.

Glancing down, you inhale and cover your chest. Seokjin awkwardly tries to stand, rushing forward to help but slips in the process, nearly falling again. It does not seem as though you desire his help anyways, springing to your feet with tears in your eyes.

Teeth chattering, you hold one hand before you. “Stay away,” you blurt, wet strands of hair plastered against your face. As though unable to help yourself, your lower lip quivers. “I fucking mean it, Seokjin. Stay away from me.”

Seokjin’s feet falter beneath him. “I…” Staring at you, he slowly nods in defeat. “Okay.”

You bend, scooping the helicopter into your arms before turning away.

Giving him another scowl, you climb from the fountain. Your sneakers make squishing noises against the linoleum as you stalk through the food court. Seokjin continues to stand there, ignoring the water jets which repeatedly hit his kneecaps.

His stomach sinks, watching you disappear.

Logically, Seokjin should go and find mall security. He should explain to them what happened before they find him, or worse – before he goes viral on the web. Less logically, Seokjin wants to run after you. He cannot simply leave things between you like that.

At the very least, he should find you a dry t-shirt. Maybe Hoseok could get him one from Foot Locker.

Because this is partly his fault. Seokjin was not the one who took over the drone and he did not push you into the fountain, but you only reacted that way because of how Seokjin has treated you. It was not a wild leap of thought to assume Seokjin was the culprit.

Before he can think about this further, a laugh breaks through the crowd. Turning around, Seokjin sees Chad running towards him.

“Wow.” Chad skids to a stop at the fountain. “That was incredible. Did you see how wet she was? And guess who got it all on camera?” He winks, waving his phone.

“Did you?” Seokjin speaks pleasantly, although he is starting to see red. “Can I see that?”

“Sure.” Chad grins, handing over the phone.

Accepting the object, Seokjin promptly throws this into the fountain.

Chad’s mouth drops open. “What the fuck?” he blurts, watching the metal sink to the bottom.

Seokjin brushes off his hands. “You’re fired,” he says, stepping out of the fountain. Water drips from his shirt, splashing the ground at his feet.

Chad’s eyes bug. “You can’t fire me, asshole. You’re not my manager.”

“Maybe not.” Seokjin shrugs and walks past. His hands open and close, curling into fists. “But he likes me better than you and he’ll believe me when I say this was your fault.”

“You dick!”

“That’s right,” Seokjin mutters. He glances at your kiosk, only to find it empty – Brandi must be helping you to clean up. Something twinges in his chest, knowing this is partly his fault. “I guess I am.”

One week later, Seokjin cannot stop thinking about you.

He tries to forget. Truly, he does but this proves itself to be more difficult than he realized. Seokjin did not understand before, how deeply you integrated yourself in his life. He did not realize how much he looked forward each day to your banter, to hearing your laugh whenever he passed by your kiosk. The past month has been bearable only because of your presence.

Slumped at the counter of Auntie Anne’s pretzels, Seokjin stares forlornly across the food court.

“Either smile or move.”

Seokjin turns to Yoongi in confusion. “Huh?”

“Either smile,” Yoongi repeats. “Or move. You’re bumming out all my customers.”

Seokjin glances at the empty food court before him. It is 10:00 AM. “What customers?”

“Exactly. All my customers are scared off by how sad you are.”

Seokjin manages a weak chuckle. “Trust me, my face is not what’s driving your customers away. If anything, it’s your latest SoundCloud mix.”

Yoongi frowns, perturbed. “Take that back.”

Seokjin winces, seeing the genuine hurt on his face. “Sorry, man,” he mumbles. “I’m just not in a great mood today.”

“No shit.”

Seokjin cracks a smile. “That obvious, huh?”

“Much in the same way climate change is obvious to everyone but the Cheeto.”

Stifling a laugh, Seokjin quickly sobers. “I just… I don’t know. I thought she’d hear me out, at least.”

The entire past week, Seokjin has parked at the opposite end of the mall from your kiosk. It makes his morning walk shorter, but somehow lonelier.

“So, this is about her, huh?” Yoongi lowers his elbows to the counter. “She’s gone incommunicado.”

“Yeah, it’s about her. I guess I can’t really blame her for being mad at me.”

“No?”

Seokjin shakes his head. “I was kind of a dick.”

Yoongi snorts. “She was a dick, too.”

“Yeah, but I started it.” Seokjin takes a sip of his coffee. “I was the one who approached her all weird, called her the competition. That set a tone.”

“Okay.” Yoongi tilts his head, thinking. “So, what’re you gonna do about it?” 

“I’m going to do nothing about it.”

“Then stop complaining to me.”

“I’m not complaining!” Seokjin looks up and sighs. “Alright, maybe I’m complaining a little. I just… wish I’d realized I liked her sooner.”

“Who cares about that? Tell her now!”

“But she hates me.”

“She hated you then!”

Seokjin glares and takes another sip of his coffee – sputtering, he chokes, “Oh, shit – that’s hot.”

“Hey.” Yoongi gives him a look. “She thinks you messed with her job. That’s way different than wearing tight pants, or putting on a fidget show, or whatever.”

“Fidget spinner show, Yoongi. Fidget show sounds like something else.”

“Both are lame,” Yoongi says. “And my point still stands. She’s mad at you now because of something you didn’t do. Now, move your elbow – I need to clean that spot before lunch.”

Seokjin obliges, dutifully removing himself from the counter. Drinking his coffee, he stares out at the food court. Up until now, Seokjin thought he was doing the noble thing. He was respecting your wishes by giving you space. You said you did not wish to see him again.

Yoongi is right, though. You said all that laboring under a misconception. More than respecting the words said in anger, perhaps it is better for Seokjin to tell you the truth. Maybe pretending to be noble is just another way of chickening out.

Because if Seokjin explains everything to you and you still do not care, it means he is alone in all this. His feelings are one-sided and everything before now was merely a rivalry. The spark Seokjin feels when he looks at you, the burning desire to kiss you – if you knew all that and still hated him, then Seokjin would be alone.

Seokjin exhales and looks up. “Gotta go,” he says, slapping the counter. “See you after your shift?’

“Wait!” Yoongi catches his arm before Seokjin can leave. “Bracelet buddies?” he grins, holding up the pink cat charm wound around his wrist.

Seokjin groans, dutifully rolling up his sleeve to showcase the pale pink alpaca. “Bracelet buddies,” he says glumly.

Yoongi gave him the gift several days ago; payback, he said, for all the women Seokjin has sent his way with the promise of a free pretzel. That used to be Seokjin’s way of scoring dates at the mall. At least, before he met you. Seokjin is obligated to wear said bracelet for three months, or else Yoongi will send their friends pictures of him sleeping with his mouth open on the couch.

If he is being honest, Seokjin does not entirely hate the bracelet. The alpaca is kind of cute, but Yoongi cannot ever know that. Waving goodbye, he manages to scowl and keep up appearances when he heads towards his kiosk.

For the next several days, Seokjin continues to wimp out.

Kind of.

While he does not actually explain what happened, he tries to make up for it in other ways. On Monday, he overhears you telling the Kay Jewelers girl the legs of your stool are too short. As a result, Seokjin volunteers to work late and stays long after closing. Before he leaves, he goes to your kiosk and switches your stool for his.

On Thursday morning, your shifts overlap. Seokjin sees you yawn passing his kiosk, mentioning to Brandi you did not sleep well the night prior. Ducking behind his counter, Seokjin does not make eye contact.

Still, he stops by Java Joe’s on his break and begs Taehyung for coffee.

Taking the long way back through the mall, Seokjin visits your kiosk. It is the first time he has tried talking to you since the Great Fountain debacle. As you come into view, Seokjin swallows and forces the words from his lips.

“Hey.” He comes to a stop at the register.

You freeze when you see him. “Um. Hi?”

Seokjin holds the coffee tray out like a shield. “I was at Java Joe’s and Taehyung brewed too much espresso. Lisa doesn’t drink it, so I was wondering if you wanted it?”

Your lips part, staring at him for a moment.

When you do not immediately respond, Seokjin starts to sweat. “You don’t have to take it,” he says quickly. “I can give it to someone else. It’s too much for me though, and you were on the way back from the shop…”

Trailing off, Seokjin wonders if this entire endeavor is foolish. The tray he is holding is full – four, small cups of espresso which cost an hour of pay. Of course, you do not need to know that. You only need to know that he thought of you.

“I – yeah,” you say slowly, reaching out for a cup. “Thanks, Seokjin.”

Seokjin blinks, since your response was almost cordial. Before he can get too excited about this, Brandi appears.

“Wow, thanks!” she enthuses, grabbing a cup. “That was so nice of you to do this.”

“Right.” Seokjin deflates just a little. It is not as if he does not want Brandi to have espresso, but he was hoping for a shared moment with you. “Just spreading the love – or caffeine, as it were. Anyways…” His laughter trails off, gaze darting to you. “Guess I have one more cup to distribute. Enjoy!”

He turns around too fast for you to respond.

Each step he takes, Seokjin half-expects to hear you call out behind him. If this were pre-Fountain Incident, you probably would have. An insult, or horrible pun – something to let Seokjin know you were watching him walk away, but now there is only silence.

This goes on for a week. Seokjin continues to do nice things for you, passing by in the hopes you will say hi. He holds his breath and hopes you will speak first, but it seems you are determined to continue icing him out.

Seokjin supposes he cannot blame you for this. It is not as though you were friends, after all.

He has almost accepted the idea that you will continue being strangers when one day, Seokjin looks up and finds you at the register.

All words instantly die in his throat.

If he thought he was in the process of getting over you, Seokjin was sorely mistaken. The days of silence have not lessened his want, but only intensified it. It makes him swallow, uncertain, which must be a first. Out of all his friends, Seokjin is not the one to call shy.

Tentatively, you smile and Seokjin realizes he still has not spoken.

“H-hi,” he stammers.

Your shoulders seem to relax at his nervousness. “Hi. Is this a bad time?”

“No,” Seokjin says, slamming his register shut. “Lisa is on break, but it’s been a slow afternoon.”

“Yeah,” you exhale. “Same. Guess we finally found those lulls you were on about.”

Seokjin chuckles under his breath. The space between you falls silent again.

“I, uh…” Twisting your hands before you, you seem unsure what to say. “I haven’t seen you around, lately.”

Seokjin’s heart stutters. “Oh. I guess.”

“That’s kind of my fault,” you say. Seokjin’s gaze drops to your hands, which continue to twist. He finds the gesture oddly endearing. “I was the one who told you to stay away.”

Arching a brow, Seokjin turns towards the register. He does not know what to say without being rude. Yes, seems like the most obvious answer, but that could be construed as impolite. Casually, he sneaks a peek sideways. You are right, though – this is partly your fault, also. Even if the other fault is his own.

“Yeah,” he agrees. “I don’t blame you for saying that, though.”

“You don’t?”

Curiosity laces your tone and Seokjin looks up, surprised to see a question mark in your gaze.

“Brandi told me Chad was fired,” you add.

Seokjin stills. “Yeah. He was.”

You pause, as though waiting for an explanation. When none comes, you narrow your eyes. “He was the one who messed with that drone, wasn’t he? Not you.”

“I – yeah, I guess so.”

Exasperation enters your gaze. “Well, why didn’t you tell me?”

“I did!” Seokjin protests. “I told you when we were chasing after the drone and you didn’t believe me!”

“Oh,” you say, wilting a bit. “Right.”

Seeing your face, Seokjin softens. “Look, it’s not a big deal.”

“Is it?” you ask in disbelief. “I yelled at you in front of the entire mall for something you didn’t do, and you’re saying its fine?”

Seokjin’s lips quirk. “Well, when you put it like that.”

When you roll your eyes at the ceiling, he laughs. Weirdly, it feels good to have you disparage him a little. It feels as though you are on even footing again.

“I mean, it’s not like we were friends,” Seokjin continues. “Why wouldn’t you think it was me?”

“Hm.” You blink, taken aback. “I guess you’re right.”

After another long moment, Seokjin adds, “We could try to be friends now, though. If you want.”

You bite down on your lip. “Are you giving me a formal offer, Seokjin? Should I sign on the dotted line somewhere?”

“I can make a contract if you want. All good peace treaties are in writing.”

“Is that what this is? A peace treaty?”

“Of a sort.” Seokjin raises a brow. “I can’t promise to stop kicking your ass in sales, though. I was born talented.”

“Or, maybe it’s Maybelline,” you shoot back. “I wouldn’t want you to stop, though. It’s been too quiet around here without you blasting Backstreet Boys.”

“Liked what you heard?”

“Who doesn’t like Backstreet Boys?”

“Monsters.”

“Agreed.”

“Wow.” Seokjin’s brow furrows. “I think that’s the first time you’ve ever agreed with me.”

“I know.” After a moment, you frown. “It’s oddly unsettling.”

Seokjin laughs – a short, surprised burst which makes you smile. “Well...” Trailing off, he finds himself unsure what more to say. “Is that why you came over?”

“Let’s see.” You lift a hand, ticking things off on your fingers. “Tell you I know you didn’t sabotage my job. Check. Ask to be friends? Check. Oh,” you add, as though only remembering. “There was something else I wanted to say.

Seokjin waits, holding his breath as you start to lean in.

Angelic, you smile. “I lied before,” you say. “We aren’t having a lull. See you around!”

Dropping a wink, you turn to walk across the food court. Seokjin watches you go, legs having effectively turned to jelly in your presence. It is unfair that you have this effect on him. Slowly, he lowers himself onto his stool. It would seem the two of you are friends now.

Dragging a hand through his hair, Seokjin wonders what he has gotten himself into.

Over the next couple of weeks, Seokjin stops by your kiosk more often. He learns your usual morning coffee order – a grande iced Americano – and occasionally brings it along. You seem to have switched to the morning shift, he notices. Before, it was about fifty-fifty which time of the day you showed up.

At some point, Seokjin explains about his former job and current app development side projects. This turns into a running joke of him bouncing ideas off you.

“Okay,” you say, folding your hands across a wan food court table.

Seokjin takes a sip of his coffee. “Okay, what?”

“Okay, what’s today’s app idea?”

Seokjin snorts. It is 10:00 AM and neither of you must be at your shift yet but somehow, you both managed to arrive early.

“What about this?” Seokjin leans back in his chair. “Angry birds, but – instead of birds, its photos of friends that you upload yourself.”

“Pass.”

“Hm. A Bachelorette fantasy league app?”

“Hard no.”

“Okay, so this one is a kid’s game.”

“Go on.”

“A kid’s game where you change the oil of your dad’s car as fast as you can.” 

You snort, nearly spilling your drink. “Seokjin! That’s a terrible app idea.” 

“Bonus points if you spill no oil on the driveway!”

“Seokjin!”

He grins. “Yeah, Yoongi said it was bad, too. I don’t get it.”

“Please.” Shaking your head, your smile fades the longer you look at him. “I don’t believe any of those are your actual idea, though.”

“Huh?” Seokjin blinks. “What do you mean?”

“Those are just the ideas you tell people to make them laugh,” you observe. “It gets them off your back, so you don’t have to say your actual idea. You know, the one you really care about.”

Seokjin pauses, mouth suddenly dry. “I don’t know what you mean.”

You arch a brow. “I get it. That’s how I am with my writing. Freelance doesn’t exactly pay for dreams, does it? I tend to downplay my favorite ideas, so then if they don’t work out – hey, at least it wasn’t something I cared about. You know?”

Seokjin is not quite sure how to respond. In only a few sentences, you have looked inside him and summarized his thoughts. No one – not even Yoongi, whom Seokjin has known for years – is able to read him as well.

Inhaling gently, Seokjin leans back from the table. “Well,” he admits. “There is this one idea.”

“Oh?”

Nodding, Seokjin considers where to begin. “Do you know what fair lending is?”

“Not really, no.”

“It’s the unbiased treatment of customers by banks.” Seokjin pauses and, when you do not seem bored with the topic, begins to speak freely. “It ensures financial institutions provide uniform services, regardless of bias.”

“Gotcha. So, it’s like equal opportunity but for banks?”

“Kind of, yeah.” Seokjin exhales. “Basically, I want to create a fair lending app. There is a lot out there to help with credit decisions and stuff, but I want to put it all in one place. I want to break down the ‘non-biased metrics’ banks use and warn people how there could be bias involved.”

Your frown. “What do you mean?”

“Take income, for example.” Seokjin grips his cup tighter. “The vast majority of people below the poverty line are minorities. So, if a bank has a hard and fast income requirement for a loan, they inadvertently discriminate. It’s why a variety of factors are mandated to assist in … what?” Seokjin blinks, seeing you staring. “What is it?”

Hiding a smile, you shake your head. “Nothing, it’s just a cool idea. I think you should do it.”

“But then who will make bachelorette fantasy app?” Seokjin jokes, ducking his head.

“Someone else.” You wait until he looks up. “Do the fair lending app.”

Seokjin finds he cannot think of another joke. “Alright,” he says slowly. “It’s a plan.”

You nod, sipping your coffee as silence falls in between you. It is unnerving, how easy it is for Seokjin to talk to you. With most people, it takes him a while to show his true colors but with you, he finds he cannot be anyone else.

Glancing at his watch, Seokjin realizes how late it is. “Shit,” he mutters, jumping out of his seat. “It’s nearly 10:30.”

You wince, standing as well. “Damn, do you have to open today?”

“Unfortunately so.” Seokjin grabs his coffee. “I’ll catch up with you later, okay, Y/N?”

“Okay,” you say, waving when he turns out of sight.

Seokjin does not hesitate to walk away. He curses himself the entire way to his kiosk because he is becoming much too comfortable with being your friend. Enough that he keeps catching himself thinking about more.

It is hard not to think about his hands wrapped around yours on your coffee cup. Hard not to imagine carpooling with you in his car to work. Seokjin tries to be on his best behavior but still, the fantasies worm their way in.

It is why he has created several rules of conduct around you. First and foremost is never stay for too long. The second Seokjin feels himself becoming attached, he leaves. Like now, for instance. Seokjin does not really have to be at the kiosk before eleven but the way you were looking at him made his heart beat out of his chest.

Self-preservation, he reminds himself.

The rules are working until Taehyung throws a party.

“Saturday night,” Taehyung grunts, slamming Seokjin’s coffee order on the counter.

Seokjin blinks, reaching up to take both cups. Lately, Taehyung has been in the worst kind of mood. This mostly seems to stem from his hot co-worker who will not take him seriously. All the guys in the mall gave him shit about it before, but the kid really does seem to like her. Which sucks, since Taehyung has a reputation and the pretty barista clearly has heard of it.

“The party is at your place?” asks Seokjin, glancing up at the counter.

Taehyung nods. Loud enough for his co-worker to hear, he adds, “The party will be at my place this weekend! Can’t wait to see you there, Seokjin!”

Seokjin snorts, shaking his head. “You’re whipped, man,” he whispers. Then, loud enough for the female barista to hear, he adds, “I’ll be there! In fact, everyone should come!”

The girl does not react, busy at the register and Seokjin shrugs.

Sorry man, he mouths to Taehyung before pushing open the door. Making his way through the mall, Seokjin walks past your kiosk – only to see you deep in conversation with another guy. Seokjin does not recognize him as your co-worker, but he does recognize him from the gym.

Occasionally, Jungkook talks to him before they work out. Seokjin never found the guy threatening before.

Seeing him now though, the oddest sensation unfurls in his stomach. He does not want you talking to this guy – the desire flashes through Seokjin’s mind faster than he can stop it. Before he can turn around and leave though, before Seokjin can separate himself from the situation, you look up and smile.

“Hey, Seokjin!”

“Hey, Y/N.” Plastering a smile on his face, Seokjin forces himself to walk towards your kiosk. “And you are…?” he asks, looking at the stranger.

The guy grins, unconcerned. “Hey, I’m Josh.”

“Cool.” Seokjin returns to looking at you. “Are you coming to Taehyung’s party this weekend, Y/N?”

Everyone at the mall knows who Taehyung is. He is a staple for anyone who drinks coffee – and chances are, if you have stopped by Java Joe’s in the past three days, you are invited.

Your eyes widen. “I was thinking about it.”

“Cool.” Seokjin casually leans an elbow against your kiosk. He forgets about the wheels though, and as a result, the entire thing starts to move. Frantically attempting to right this, Seokjin nearly spills his coffee in the process.

“Anyways…” he mutters, ears turning scarlet.

You clamp your lips tightly together. “So, you’re going to be there?”

Seokjin nods. He has no idea what he is doing. He has no idea what Josh is doing, since he has not said a word since introducing himself.

Glancing at him now, Seokjin is reminded of Chad. Not because the two look anything alike, but because they both have that air about them. That condescending, could-bench-press-you-in-seconds look. Seokjin bets that, at some point in the past ten days, Josh has worn a snapback.

You are standing close very close to him, though. Seokjin cannot ignore this fact.

“Cool.” Your gaze lingers on his. “Then, I guess I’ll see you there?”

Seokjin nods. “Guess so. We’ll see!”

He turns, walking away and overhears Josh ask you details about the party. Gritting his teeth, Seokjin uncurls his hands from their fists. You are not his to be jealous of, he reminds himself. He has no right to be angry if you decide to date someone else. But still, Seokjin’s mood remains sour for the rest of the day.

You do not visit at the end of your shift. If could be because you are genuinely busy. Or, it could be something else. Or, someone.

Seokjin has the next two days off. He uses them to work on his fair lending app, getting a good bit of coding done in his apartment. Your voice plays in his mind as he works, telling him to go for what he wants.

Seokjin is tired of working at the Fidget Funk. He is tired of waking up every morning, going to a job he hates and feeling as though he is doing nothing with his life. What was supposed to be a temp job has stretched into months and Seokjin needs to act for anything about this to change.

There is only so long he can complain before doing something about it.

He wants to do what he loves; wants to do something he cares about – not this. Sometimes, making that decision is the hardest part.

The night of the party, Seokjin drives there with Yoongi. Yoongi, surprisingly agrees to come with little coercion. Usually, Seokjin needs to drag his taciturn roommate to social events. He was easily convinced tonight though, which results in Seokjin being more nervous than normal.

As they enter Taehyung’s apartment, he pauses on the threshold.

If he had your number, he would have texted to see if you were coming, but Seokjin does not and so, he could not. Wandering into the room, Seokjin winces when no one removes their shoes. Parties are always strangely barbaric in that regard.

Taehyung’s apartment with his roommate, Jimin, is much larger than his. Seokjin remembers Taehyung saying Jimin came from money but does not remember specifics. Jimin is a night nurse at NorthShore Medical center and often stops by Java Joe’s in the morning for coffee. Other than that, Seokjin does not know much about him.

Walking inside, Seokjin realizes Taehyung has downplayed Jimin’s wealth. There is no way they could afford this place on a nurse and barista salary. A bunch of people are outside – because there is an outside; a large balcony overlooking the city – chatting about nothing over the rims of their drinks.

Yoongi disappears as soon as they enter, heading off to god-knows-where. He leaves Seokjin alone, who shifts his weight about nervously. Glancing up, he spots Namjoon in the kitchen and hastily rushes towards him. Finally, a familiar face.

“Joon!” he calls out.

Namjoon waves, re-filling the cup in his hand. When Seokjin reaches his side, he hands another to Seokjin. “Hey,” Namjoon nods. “You just get here?”

“Yeah.” Seokjin scans the party again, red cup in one hand. “Is everything c –”

Cutting himself off mid-sentence, Seokjin stares when you walk into the room. Everything he wanted to say falls from his brain to the floor. It is not unlike that one scene in She’s All That, when Laney comes down the stairs and Freddie Prinze Jr. loses his mind. Seokjin cannot think, looking at you.

A red cup is in your hand, matching the red gloss on your lips and god, Seokjin cannot stop thinking about kissing it off.

He swallows, hard – and then notices the guy at your side.

You laugh, turning sideways to Josh. Because that is who it is, of course – the same muscle- bound jock you were talking to at the drone kiosk earlier.

Jungkook appears as well, clapping Josh on the shoulder. Seokjin scowls, swallowing a larger sip of his drink than intended. First, this guy tries to steal his girl and now, his best friend. Eyes widening, Seokjin straightens. Shit, you are not his girl. He needs to stop thinking that way.

“Seokjin?”

Seokjin realizes Namjoon is staring at him. “Uh, yeah?”

“You trailed off in the middle of a sentence and have been hard-core staring at that girl ever since. Is – oh!” Namjoon’s eyes light up. “That’s her, isn’t it?”

“That’s who?” Seokjin hastily swallows his drink.

“The girl! Fountain girl!” Namjoon shoves him. “The one you’re head over heels for!”

“Okay, fountain girl is a horrible way of describing her. And yeah, maybe that’s – shit, shut up,” Seokjin hisses. “She’s coming this way.”

Namjoon snorts into his drink. You are, indeed, waking towards them but Josh is no longer beside you. Craning his neck, Seokjin looks over your shoulder but does not see the guy anywhere.

“Hey.” You come to a stop right before them, glancing at Namjoon. “Namjoon, right?”

Namjoon sticks out a hand. “Yep. Y/N?”

You take this, stifling a smile as you shake. “Yeah.”

“And, of course, you know Seokjin.” Namjoon grins at Seokjin’s flustered expression.

“Uh-huh,” you say, offering him a tentative smile. “We go way back.”

Feeling somewhat nauseous, Seokjin takes another sip of his drink. “Y/N and I are friends.”

A flash of something – uncertainty? Annoyance? – crosses your features. “Right,” you say carefully. “Friends.”

Your expression remains stubborn though, and Seokjin wonders if he has done something wrong. Changing the subject, he glances around the apartment. “Have you been here before, Y/N?”

“No,” you confess. “But damn – which roommate won the lottery?”

Seokjin grins. “I know, right? I can show you around if you want.”

You blink, taken aback by his offer and Seokjin wonders if that was too forward. Well, fuck it – he is not getting anywhere by being subtle.

“Yeah,” you say, recovering yourself. “I’d like that.”

Pushing himself off the counter, Seokjin says goodbye to Namjoon and plunges into the party. He continues to look for hot gym guy, Josh, but does not see him anywhere. It is unlikely you came here together, but not impossible. Perhaps the two of you are dating. Perhaps you like him and want to date him in the future.

Seokjin is so busy running through what-if scenarios, he does not notice you looking at him.

“Right, so Taehyung and Jimin’s rooms are that way.” Seokjin leads through the crowd. “Aka, that hall is off limits. This is the living area and well, you already saw the balcony.” Steps faltering, Seokjin looks sideways at you. “Did you see the balcony?”

You shake your head. “Nope.”

“Scared of heights?”

“Not really, no.”

“Well, then you’re lucky.” Seokjin mutters, pushing open the sliding glass door. “Luck you never met that dick, Jared Karinsky.”

Laughing, you follow him out on the balcony. There are only a few other people outside and, once the door slides shut, it feels as though you are trapped in another world.

“Who’s Jared Karinksy?”

Glowering, Seokjin takes a sip of his drink. “Some dick who knew I didn’t like heights, but still brought me to the top of the jungle gym. Then, he left me there. It took two hours for my brother to find me and get me back down.”

Laughing, you lean against the railing. “I take it that didn’t help?”

“It did not,” says Seokjin. “If anything, my fear was worse after.”

You grin, draining the rest of your cup as the wind ruffles your hair. It makes Seokjin’s heart ache a bit to look at.

“Well, I have to say –”

The glass door slides open, interrupting whatever you were about to say. Josh’s head pops out. “Y/N!” he grins. “I was looking for you.”

You slowly turn towards the interruption. “I... oh. Hey, Josh.”

“Are you busy?” Josh glances between you and Seokjin.

Rubbing the back of his neck, Seokjin feels oddly foolish. It seems obvious now, that you came here with Josh. You must have been making a beeline for drinks when you ran into Seokjin in the kitchen. Seokjin assumed, then. He thought you were free. When he grabbed you, he was yanking you away from the guy you really wanted to be with.

“Not busy.” Seokjin drains the rest of his cup. “Not busy at all. Have fun,” he mutters, brushing your shoulder as he moves towards the door.

When he leaves, Seokjin does not look back and so, he does not see your lips part. He does not watch you stare after him with equal parts frustration and anger. All Seokjin sees is the kitchen before him, full of alcohol for him to consume. Alcohol he will need to get through the rest of this party.

He is almost to the kitchen when a hand grips his arm, yanking him around. “What the fuck was that?” you say, brows furrowed.

Seokjin stares at you, alarmed you are in such close proximity. “I – huh? What the fuck was what?”

You scowl, leaning in and Seokjin leans back. “That!” you demand, waving vaguely at the balcony. “Why did you run away?”

“Run away?” Seokjin’s gaze darts towards the offending location. “I thought you wanted to talk to that guy?”

“Why would you think that?” you ask, brows furrowing further.

“I…” Seokjin finds himself at a loss. “I don’t know. Didn’t you come here with him?”

“With Josh?” You wrinkle your nose. “You mean – my cousin, Josh?”

“…cousin?”

You nod, looking at him incredulously. “You thought I wanted to talk to my cousin, Josh, as opposed to you?”

A lightbulb clicks in Seokjin’s mind. “I – he’s your cousin?”

“Yes, he’s my cousin.” Scowling, you take a step closer. “But even if he weren’t, why would you just leave like that? We were in the middle of a conversation!”

“I don’t know!” he blurts, gaze narrowing at your tone.

Out of the two of you, Seokjin is the one with the right to be angry. You are the one looking so damn good tonight and currently yelling at him for something he does not understand.

Vaguely aware they should not have this argument in the middle of Taehyung and Jimin’s kitchen, Seokjin grabs your wrist and tugs you into the hall. The forbidden one, next to the bedrooms. Realizing this, Seokjin keeps going and decides to beg forgiveness later.

Dropping your arm, he whirls around to find you mere inches away.

“Why didn’t you ask me to stay?” he accuses, pointing a finger. “For that matter – why didn’t you ask if I was going to the party tonight? If my presence is so important to you.”

Glaring at him, you bat his finger away. “You asked me first! Besides, I thought it was obvious I wanted you here. You know… because of the… and…”

“Because of the what?”

Somehow, you have gotten very close to Seokjin. The tips of your toes are just brushing his. Electricity crackles between you, making Seokjin’s heartbeat oddly erratic.

Glowering, your gaze darts to his lips. “Oh – seriously? Shut up and kiss me, you ass!”

Grabbing your face, Seokjin does just that. His lips crash into yours, the kiss muffled and urgent as he backs you to the wall. You groan, hands fisting in the back of his t-shirt. Seokjin cannot think beyond his hand resting on your jaw, then sliding into your hair, then moving down to your ass.

He cups you against him, head reeling from the sudden warmth of your mouth, your body and the urgency of your touch. Seokjin has never wanted someone so badly. Each brush of your lips leaves him wanting more, an endless desire alight in his veins.

Your mouth opens, tongue flicking with his as Seokjin’s heart nearly explodes. He cannot breathe – each breath mingles with yours, leaving him dizzy and parched.

“Fuck,” he groans, breaking away to lean his arm to the wall.

You stare up at him, breathless and confused. Your chest continues to rise and fall, lips swollen from the wanton press of his mouth. Seokjin cannot look away.

“I…” He exhales, glancing towards the living room. “Do you wanna get out of here?”

You nod so fast, you nearly hit your head on his chin. “Yes.”

“Okay.” Seokjin reaches down, grabbing your hand. “You good with my place? It’s only a few minutes drive.”

“Yeah,” you answer, following him down the hall. “Roommate?”

“Here. At the party.”

“Good.”

Dragging you into the foyer, Seokjin digs his phone from his pocket. Letting go of your fingers, he shoots a text off to Yoongi, telling him not to come home. He can face the consequences of that later. Shoving his phone in his pocket, Seokjin opens the door.

“Do you have a coat?” he asks, looking at you.

“Nope. You?”

“Nope.” Seokjin shuts the door to the hall and the noise of the party fades. “This way?”

“Sounds good.”

When you move to walk past, Seokjin grabs your hand – he cannot help himself. Pushing you against the wall, he relishes your muffled exclamation of surprise and kisses you fiercely. Thoroughly. The way he has wanted to for so long.

Hands sliding into your hair, Seokjin feels you arch against him. Your hand is on his hip, pulling him closer and Seokjin cannot stop thinking about your hand on other places.

When he finally breaks away, you stare at his lips. “That’s…” You swallow, voice sounding strangled. “Fuck.”

Seokjin grins. “Come on.”

Grabbing you again, he pulls you into the elevator. The entire way down, the air between you is electric. Seokjin shifts his weight and you follow suit. Raising a hand, you rub the back of your neck. Seokjin’s skin prickles when he sees.

When the door dings, opening into the lobby, you suddenly come to life. Newly determined, your hand wraps around his and pulls Seokjin outside. He practically throws his keys at the valet, wondering how on earth he is going to survive the drive home without touching you. Thank god he only had that one drink tonight. It would have been torture to be so close to fucking you and then not.

Startled by the thought, Seokjin realizes the truth of the matter. He is going to see you naked. Whirling to face you, Seokjin blurts, “This isn’t some random thing. You know that, right?”

Surprised, you glance at him. “I – what?”

“This.” Seokjin steps closer and his peripheral, sees the valet hop out of his car. “I really like you, Y/N.”

Staring up at him, you blink. “You do?”

“Of course, I do! You thought I didn’t?”

“I thought you hated me.”

“Of course, not!” Grabbing his keys from the valet, Seokjin opens the passenger door. He waits until you sit before crossing to the driver’s side. “Why would you think that?” he asks, sliding into the seat.

You stare at him incredulously. “You’ve got to be kidding me.”

“What?” Seokjin pulls out of the driveway. “I’ve liked you for so long! I just didn’t know how to tell you.”

“Uh! Could’ve fooled me.”

“Are you serious? I was such an idiot in front of you! What other explanation is there?”

“That you’re an idiot!” you answer, scowling. “Are you seriously saying that was your idea of flirting?”

“I mean… well, no, but…”

You snort, facing forward. “You’re so bad at this.”

“At what?”

“This!” you insist, gesturing between you.

“Oh, come on! Like you’re Juliet, or something.”

“Who?”

“Juliet! Of Romeo and Juliet!”

“They… Seokjin, they died in the end!” you say incredulously.

“Well, what do I know?” Seokjin makes a sharp right, pulling into his parking lot. “I never finished reading that play, actually – fell asleep a third of the way in. What I’m trying to say is that you’re also shit at this.”

“Oh, really?”

“You said you never wanted to speak to me again,” Seokjin reminds, throwing the car into park.

Hastily, you unbuckle your seatbelt. “I apologized for that.”

“You were the one who said you wanted to be friends!” Seokjin shoves open his door and exits the vehicle.

You exit as well, slamming the door shut. “Well, it seemed like the next logical step!”

“No.” Seokjin strides forward. Caging you against the car, he growls, “The next logical step would’ve been admitting you liked me, too.”

“Too?” You blink, stuck on the word. “So, you admit you like me?”

“Never said I didn’t.”

These last words are muttered against your lips, Seokjin cutting off further retorts with a kiss.

Arching upwards, your hands twine around his neck. Seokjin’s mind stutters, unsure what to think. His brain is a vague mess of swear words and exclamation points when his lips move against yours. It is hard to grasp the fact that you are here, with him and wanting him the same way he wants you.

Breaking apart, Seokjin rests his forehead to yours. “Okay,” he manages. “I know you said you wanted to leave with me. I know you got in my car and drove all the way here. But – because I want to be sure – do you want to come in?”

Breathlessly, you laugh. “Yes.”

“Okay.” Withdrawing, Seokjin takes your hand. “Then, let’s go.”

Climbing the outdoor stairs to reach his apartment, Seokjin pulls the keys from his pocket so he is prepared to enter. He does not check his phone, certain Yoongi has texted him multiple epithets about where he can stick his ass.

Bracing his hip against his door, Seokjin jiggles the key to shove it open. Once you are both inside, Seokjin half-expects you to wrinkle your nose. It is not as if his and Yoongi’s apartment can ever compete with Jimin and Taehyung’s.

You do none of this, though. Stepping inside, you place your purse on the counter and glance around curiously. “You live with that guy from the food court, right?” you ask, turning around. “Yoongi?”

Stepping forward, Seokjin crushes his mouth to yours.

You inhale, the noise caught by his lips when your hands slide up his back. One of your legs curls around his, rubbing your core against the meat of his thigh. Seokjin’s head spins, gripping your ass to push you against the counter. You make a muffled noise, gasping when Seokjin hardens into your crotch.

It is embarrassing how ready he is for you. All it took where a few whispered words about how badly you want him and here he is, rock-hard and on edge. Admittedly, the noises you make are not helping.

“Shit,” Seokjin breathes, kissing down the slope of your neck.

You arch your throat, allowing more access. Your skin tastes of berries and something else – probably a perfume Seokjin does not know the name of. The warm press of your core to his leg leaves Seokjin reeling.

“My room?” he gasps, hand dragging up your side.

Frantic, you nod. “Yes.”

Bending, Seokjin grips your legs and lifts you against him. He stumbles towards his bedroom, realizing too late you are heavier than he thought. Maybe Jungkook was right about adding weight to his reps. Kissing you again, Seokjin staggers into his bedroom and drops you on the bed.

Laughing, you grab your top to yank overhead. There is some skepticism to your gaze, as though you expected him to fall short in carrying you. Seokjin’s ego flames in response. Growling lowly, he rips off his shirt and descends on the bed. Parting your legs, he presses a kiss to your thigh.

“Take off your jeans.” Seokjin looks up.

You blink. “What?”

“I wanna eat you out.” Seokjin cocks a brow. “Or, is that too much?”

“No,” you glower, undoing your buttons. “Go for it.”

As you shimmy your jeans down your legs, Seokjin’s mouth dries at the sight of your panties. He did not imagine them to be lace. He did not imagine them to be quite as revealing as they are. Slowly, Seokjin reaches out to peel these aside. You inhale, arching on the bed. Seeing your pussy like that, laid out before him, he can hardly breathe.

You are wet for him. Theoretically, this makes sense, but Seokjin did not think he could make you wet. Did not think he would ever see you as drenched as you are, the lace in the middle much damper than the rest. Pressing another kiss to your knee, Seokjin inhales and makes his way higher.

Flicking your clit with his tongue, he teases at more. You mewl, curling inwards and Seokjin pushes your legs down. He sucks the length of your folds, getting you good and wet before he returns to your sex. You arch again, pussy clenching even through there is nothing inside you.

Smirking, Seokjin takes pleasure in this fact. Your folds are glistening, ready even though has not touched you yet. He has not even pushed a finger inside that tight, wet cunt of yours. Lowering his head, Seokjin’s tongue curls over your clit. He turns needy, licking until your hands fist in the sheets on either side of your body.

“Seokjin,” you groan. “Please.”

“Please what?”

Seokjin leisurely sucks on your clit, pulling it between his lips. His other hand drifts to your cunt, tracing in circles.

You moan beneath him on the bed, arching to try and push him inside. Seokjin memorizes the visual – the black lace of your bra barely hiding your nipples, hair splayed on his comforter with his hands on your thighs.

“I need more.”

“Yeah?” Seokjin lazily traces your pussy. “Want me to finger you?’

“Fuck, yes.”

“Mm.” Seokjin sucks your clit until you cry out from pleasure. Releasing you gently, he sits back on his heels to rub with his fingers. “I could probably make you come like this, though.”

Reaching underneath your body, you unhook your bra. Seokjin stares in awe at your chest, bared before him. “Probably,” you agree. “But wouldn’t it be more fun to come inside me?”

Seokjin’s teeth grit, the words going straight to his cock. Already, it pulses against the tight fit of his jeans – when he feels how wet you are, Seokjin cannot stop imagining himself inside you. Grabbing your wrist, he brings your hand to his crotch.

You inhale when you feel how hard he is. “You’re so… big,” you murmur. “Will you even fit?’

Seokjin smirks, bending until his lips cover yours. “Not yet,” he agrees, spreading your legs with one hand. Stroking your center, he wets himself with your arousal. “That’s why I gotta stretch you out first. Get you ready for this dick.”

“O-h,” you gasp, mouth a perfect o as Seokjin’s finger pushes inside.

It is a tight stretch. Seokjin feels a bit light-headed, imagining something so tight and wet wrapped around him. Withdrawing, he pushes a finger inside you again. Rolling your hips, you force Seokjin deeper and he clicks his tongue, hand grabbing your waist.

“You don’t get to be in control,” he instructs, finger sliding back out. Adding another one, he slowly fucks you again. “You just have to lie there and take it.”

“Good,” you breathe, two of his fingers inside you. “Finally. I’ve been wanting you to yank my panties down and fuck me for weeks now.”

Seokjin’s jaw clenches – shaking his head, he is certain he must have misheard. “What?”

A smile curls your lips. “You heard me,” you say sweetly, pussy squelching as Seokjin’s fingers slide in and out. “You’re so hot when you’re mad. Why do you think I teased you so much? Wanted your dick in my mouth to shut me up.”

Heat blazes through Seokjin’s veins. He has never been this turned on in his life – hearing such sinful things from your angelic lips. Sitting back on his heels, Seokjin frantically undoes his jeans.

“Fuck, Y/N,” he mutters, pushing them past his ass.

Yanking out his cock, Seokjin wraps a hand around his girth. He rubs himself roughly, ignoring the pre-cum dripping from his reddened tip. Already, he is steeling himself to not come inside you. Pushing yourself up on your elbows, you watch him touching himself, lips parted in awe. Seokjin stares back, realizing you are as tuned on by him as he is by you.

Your gaze darts to his face. “Condom?” you ask, voice unsteady. “I don’t think I’ll last long once you’re inside me.”

Nodding, Seokjin grabs one from his drawer. Ripping open the packet, he rolls this on. Lowering an arm to the bed, Seokjin positions his cock at your core. As badly as he wants to be inside you, there is something so tantalizing about teasing. Spreading your legs, Seokjin rubs his cock to your clit and watches you twitch in response.

“Seokjin,” you groan, arms sliding around his neck.

“Yeah?”

“Need you to fuck me so good,” you whine.

“Yeah?” Cock at your entrance, Seokjin slowly pushes inside. “Like that?”

“Mhmm.” You nod, breath hitching slightly. “Like that.”

“There?” Seokjin pushes in a bit more, moaning when your walls flutter around him.

You are squeezing him so fucking tight, Seokjin wonders how much more you can take. He is aware of the fact he is big. It would not be the first time a girl could not take him; would not be the first time he gave up and ate the girl out until she came.

“No!” Eyes flying open, you grab Seokjin’s wrist when he starts to withdraw. Lips parted, you stare at him in a daze. “Please keep going,” you beg. “Don’t wanna stop.”

Seokjin arches a brow. “You sure? Sure it feels good?”

“Good?” You stare at him with a fucked-out expression. “Oh my god.” Wrapping both legs around his waist, you push Seokjin in deeper. “You’re stretching me so good, baby. Can’t wait until you’re pounding this pussy.”

“Fuck,” Seokjin hisses, gaze darkening. “I think I somehow got harder.”

“I know,” you laugh, somewhat dreamily. “Felt your cock twitch inside me. So fucking hot.”

Seokjin continues to ease inside you, inch by inch until your eyes start to water. Biting down on your lip, you urge him on and before long, Seokjin bottoms out. He stops there, panting at the feeling of being so deep inside you. Glancing down, Seokjin sees your pussy split by his cock and cannot contain himself any longer. He slowly pulls out.

“What…” Grasping for his ass, you panic a bit. “Seokjin, don’t –”

Grabbing your knee, he slams back inside you. The two of you groan at the same time. Him, because he has never felt anything as tight and wet as your cunt and you because his dick is so large, your body is trembling.

“God.” You fall back on the bed, chest bouncing. “I fucking knew you were big. There was no other way you could be so annoying.”

Seokjin withdraws, reliving the sweet sensation of thrusting his cock in your tight pussy. You are so warm and so wet – now that you have been stretched, you mold easily to him.

“Fuck,” you gasp, lifting your hips to his.

Seokjin toys with you. Slowly sliding in and out, he brings his thumb to your clit and starts rubbing. “You thought I was annoying, huh?” he breathes, lips hot in your ear.

Nodding, your hands fist in the sheets. “Still do.”

Chuckling, Seokjin captures your lobe with his teeth. His hips roll against you, pressing you into the mattress. “Mm. Know what I think?”

“What?”

“You talk too much. Flip over.”

Your eyes widen. “W-what?”

“Thought you wanted me to shut you up?” Seokjin presses a sweet kiss to your mouth. “Now, flip over, so I can fuck you senseless.”

Withdrawing, he ignores every inch of him which screams to stay put. It is worth it though, when you finally flip onto your stomach and stick your ass in the air.

Inhaling, Seokjin runs a hand up your drenched pussy. Your lips are swollen, messy with slick from him eating you out. Lifting himself onto his knees, Seokjin grabs his dick and pushes against your center. Slapping your clit a few times, he hisses when he feels you tremble beneath him. Hands soft on your hips, he slides into your cunt.

“Ah!” you gasp, head thrown back from the motion.

Wrapping your hair around his wrist, Seokjin thrusts into you again. He can feel every inch of your cunt, feel the tight squeeze of your walls on his cock. God, you are driving him crazy. Thrusting harder, Seokjin cannot separate the sensations before him.

Your ass pushing back on him, the way your moans fall from your lips. The tight wetness of your heat, his cock disappearing in and out. Leaning down, Seokjin slides an arm around your ribcage and pulls you against him.

He continues to fuck you like that, cock entering your body at a punishing speed. You feel so good pressed against him, nipples hard as they peek through his palms. Seokjin’s lips find your neck, sucking a hickey into your skin.

“Fuck,” you groan, walls tightening around him. Your bodies bang together, his cock fucking you open in a way which barely seems decent. “Fuck – Seokjin – yes! Oh my god, yes.’

“Yeah?” His grip tightens around you. “You about to come on my dick, baby?”

“Yes!” you gasp. He is basically holding you up at this point, fucking you senseless. “Oh – oh! I thought… you – mmph – wanted! Me – fuck! Quiet!”

Chuckling, Seokjin slides a hand between your legs. Finding your clit, he begins to rub with his fingers. “Changed my mind,” he grunts. “Wanna hear you scream my name so loud, you wake all my neighbors.”

“S-Seokjin!”

Your legs start to shake, trembling with your impending orgasm and Seokjin is not doing much better. The only thing holding him back is the intense desire to feel you come wrapped around him.

“C’mon,” he groans, angling his hips even deeper. “Wanna feel this tight, little pussy come on my cock. Can you do that, baby? Can you?”

“Yes,” you gasp and then you are coming undone.

Seokjin groans, biting your shoulder when your pussy clamps down. Your orgasm is so intense, Seokjin is surprised he can keep you against him. Pushed over the edge, Seokjin shudders when he lets go and releases into the condom. It goes on for so long, his cock aching as you take every last bit of him.

Slowly, his hand falls and strokes down your side. Lips brushing your neck, Seokjin exhales and gently withdraws. Everything is over-sensitive, each inch of his body buzzing with satisfaction. Tying the condom into a knot, Seokjin tosses this in the garbage and sees you roll out of bed.

His stomach twists. “Where are you going?” he blurts, wincing at how needy he sounds.

It is only – you look so fucking beautiful. Hair messy and lips swollen, traces of arousal lingering on the inside of your thighs. You smile at him, as if sensing his nervousness.

“Where’s your bathroom?” you ask, sheepish.

Seokjin exhales, relief coursing through him. He points to the left. “Over there,” he says, collapsing on top of the sheets. His dick is limp, soft in his lap, but looking at you, Seokjin is already thinking about more. “Want me to show you?”

“That’s alright,” you laugh, turning around. “I think I can make it to the closet alone.”

Grinning, Seokjin falls back again. “Come back soon.”

“Okay.”

Glancing at him over your shoulder, you sneak another peek before disappearing.

Seokjin stares at his ceiling for a moment before he remembers his roommate. Wincing, he reaches down to fish his phone from his jeans. Unsurprisingly, there are several missed texts from Yoongi.

Yoongi: k lol [11:01 PM]

Yoongi doesn’t matter won’t be sleeping anyways [11:01 PM]

Yoongi: too busy eating dessert ; ) [11:01 PM]

Groaning, Seokjin plugs his phone into his charger. He guesses this means Yoongi found someone else to hook up with. Rolling over in bed, Seokjin starts when you open the door.

“Hey.” You smile, almost embarrassed. Walking towards him, you bend to scoop your underwear from the ground.

“Whoa!” Seokjin blurts, grabbing your wrist. He pulls you into the bed before you can get dressed. “What do you think you’re doing?”

“Putting on clothes,” you laugh, curling into his side. “Clearly, I was wrong.”

“Mhm.” Seokjin’s nose nuzzles your hair. He is not sure why, but something about this feels right. Having your limbs entwined in his, your hand resting soft on his chest. He feels warm, satisfied by the thought of being near you.

Sleepily, you smile. “I’m not allowed to get dressed tonight, is that it?”

“Nope,” he agrees, heart soaring the longer he looks at you. “Something that good needs repeating.”

Laughing a little, you curl tighter around him. “Does that mean you want to repeat it?” you ask, uncertainty to your voice.

Sliding two fingers under your chin, Seokjin tilts your head up. “Yeah,” he says, quiet. “I can’t think of anything I want more, to be honest.”

“I – same.”

Laying your head on his chest, you are quiet for a moment as Seokjin basks in the silence. Then, he exhales and adds, “I mean, aside from trouncing your sales targets, of course. I always want to do that.”

You snort, shoving his side. Seokjin pulls you in closer, grinning widely. It is a lie, of course – right now, there is nothing he wants more than to be with you.

[ COLLABORATION MASTERLIST FOUND HERE ]

© kpopfanfictrash, 2019. Do not copy or repost without permission.

[side-shawty]

Burn VIII (Stark!Reader)

VIII: Yellow Lights

Fandom: Marvel (MCU)

Type: series

Prompt/Summary: Everyone needs to be reassured sometimes

Pairing(s): Peter Parker x Stark!reader, Tony Stark x daughter!reader

Requested? YES

PREVIOUS CHAPTER

•

“May! I can’t find my belt!” Peter yelled from his room, he had been searching frantically all morning. 

“Which one?” May called back, most likely from in front of the TV in the living room. 

“The black one that Ben gave me,” he replied and heard May move from her spot but instead of concentrating on her, he continued his quest.

“This one?” May said from his doorway. He looked toward her from his seated spot in front of his closet.

He stood almost immediately, “Yes! May, you’re a wizard,” he said kissing her cheek and taking the belt before tossing it onto his unmade bed.

“If I was, I’d be able to get you to keep your room clean,” She said as he haphazardly shoved things into his drawer and forced his closet door closed.

“I’ll clean it tomorrow, promise. Isn’t Sunday like a cleaning day anyways?” Peter asked moving to pack his backpack for the day.

“Sure,” May said moving to sit on his bed. “Peter I have to ask you something before tonight,” she said and the serious tone made Peter pay close attention to her but not halt his actions.

“What is it?” 

“What exactly is going on between you and Y/N?” May asked and Peter finally stopped what he was doing to turn to her with wide eyes. Peter had told her some of what was going on but not nearly everything.

He cleared his throat, “Well, um, I — she,” he began but couldn’t seem to get the right words out.

May stood at his distress and put her hands on his shoulders. He had gotten so tall since first becoming Spiderman but he was still her little Peter that lost too much too fast.

“Breathe, honey. Happy has already told me the gist of it but I just wanted to hear it from you. Are you dating?” May asked and his newly relaxed shoulders were tense all over again.

“I don’t think so,” he began, looking somewhere over her head, “I like her a lot but I don’t want to rush anything. And I mean we’ve been on dates but I haven’t asked her to be my girlfriend or anything,” he finished.

“Well, I think you should. You haven’t fallen over yourself this much since Liz,” she said and this made him look at her. “But it’s different this time, the look in your eyes is so much brighter and happier when you talk about her. There’s no hiding or secrets. When you’re together you just look like two happy teenagers,” May smiled and Peter couldn’t help the smile that pushed through the blush on his cheeks.

“Thanks May. You think I should ask her tonight?”

“I do,” she started, “But for the love of god please try and make it romantic. This venue is gonna give you a pretty good head start already,” she said before pulling him into a quick hug.

~~~

Nothing in your life had ever gone so smoothly. When you got to the venue the ballroom was set up perfectly. The only thing you had to do was wait for the flower arrangements and favors to be delivered. 

You were doing a final walkthrough when the flower arrangements arrived and you knew this was the end of your smooth sailing. 

There were supposed to be red and white peonies at the entrances and similar but not matching ones for the stage but when they arrived the peonies for entrances were red and the rather large ones for the stage were baby blue.

It took everything not to lose it on the delivery guy. It wasn’t his job but you’d be damned if you didn’t show him at least a bit of the fire in your eyes so he had a story to tell his superiors.

Twenty minutes later you got a frantic call from the florists telling them they would be there in less than 30 minutes with red peonies. Pepper had given you a serious talk about needing to be stern when working with businesspeople because you had always been framed as “Tony’s sweet innocent daughter” and they would walk all over you because of that. 

It was really paying off now.

Once the flowers were fixed you took a deep breath. You could feel your body temperature rising and the last thing you needed right now was for your venue to literally go up in flames.

You oversaw as the rest of the setup went smoothly and two hours before the doors opened you went to the venue’s bridal suite to get ready. 

You had changed into a dressing robe and were finishing on your hair when there was a light knock on the door.

“Come in,” you called, not taking your eyes off the mirror.

“Wow your hair looks so pretty Y/N/N,” you heard Morgan’s voice and you turned to face her and your mother with a smile on your face.

You opened your arms as she ran to you.

“I wish my hair curled like that,” She said tugging at her loose curls a bit sadly. They were almost identical to the ones your dad had at her age. 

You decided on keeping it natural because even the very beginning summer in the city was hot and humid sometimes and you didn’t really have time to get protective styles done anymore. 

“What? You have the cutest little curls I’ve ever seen,” you told her pinching at her cheeks as she settled onto you lap.

“Really?” She asked as you continued on your own hair.

“Yup,” you said popping the ‘P’ before your mother joined you both in the mirror and took the products from your hands.

“It looks beautiful downstairs Firefly. You really outdid yourself,” She said and began putting your hair into the updo you had showed her days prior.

Pepper had been doing your hair since you were little because your father had been a lost cause from the very start. He didn’t fare much better with Morgan’s hair either.

“Thanks mom, I learned from the best,” you said smiling at her and she couldn’t help but smile back as she pulled your hair into a ponytail but allowing a few curls to stay out and frame your face.

This was the most relaxed you’d been all day. As your mom finished your hair and Morgan took an interest in a game on your phone. You closed your eyes, only for them to shoot open at the question your mother posed.

“So is Peter officially your boyfriend now?” The question came after your hair was done so you quickly whipped your head around to face her. Careful not to drop your sister.

Who had subsequently gasped excitedly at your mother’s question, “Does that mean that Peter is my brother for-real now?” You snapped your head back around to look at her.

These two were going to give you whiplash.

“Wait. Stop. He’s not my boyfriend,” you told them.

“Do you want him to be?” Morgan asked.

“Yes, no…maybe,” you said and Pepper’s eyes softened at the distress in your voice.

She walked around so that she was leaning on the vanity in front of you. She gave you the look and that was all it took for you to cave.

“I mean I do but is it too soon? I mean it’s not like Harley has my heart anymore but I don’t want to rush into anything,” you told her.

“You know it took your father and me eleven years before we finally decided to tie the knot. Granted we had been together for a few years before that and that man is actually insane,” she said and gave a wistful smile, you and Morgan laughed lightly. 

“But sometimes I wish we had dived in head first, especially after you came into our lives. I always knew I loved him, even when I denied it so even though what you and Peter have right now might not be love yet it’s worth taking a risk. You’re only young once,” She smiled at you when she was done and you smiled back. 

You hesitated for a spilt second before saying, “You’re right, thanks mom,” she smiled and gave you a kiss on the cheek before lifting Morgan from your lap.

“Anytime sweetheart. Now finish getting ready, you’ve only got an hour and a half and Peter will be here in an hour with Happy and May,” she told you as Morgan gave you your phone back and they headed for the exit.

“Aye, aye Captain,” you saluted and she rolled her eyes.

~~~

Your makeup was done quickly and almost as perfectly as if you had gone to a professional. You had been coming to events like this since you were younger than Morgan and that meant that you had makeup down to a perfect science.

All that was left was for you to put on your gown and shoes. 

Unzipping the garment bag you were once again floored by the beauty of the gown. One of your mother’s friends had begged to make custom gowns for the three of you and had pulled out all the stops.

The gown was a deep red with thin straps and a deep v-neck on the fitted bodice. The dress flowed from your waist effortlessly only interrupted by a slit halfway up your thigh. There was no beading, just perfectly draped silk that shone as the light hit it.

You dressed quickly accessorizing with a diamond earring and necklace set that your father had gotten you for your 17th birthday. Finally, you made sure the bangles for your suit were secured to your wrists before slipping into your heels.

You checked the mirror once more before hearing a knock on the door. 

“Come in,” you called for the second time that day.

Turning to face the door you were greeted with an already-smiling Peter and you couldn’t help the warmth you felt creeping under your chocolate skin when his delight turned stunned. 

“Wow, Y/N, you look incredible,” he said as you took in his appearance. 

Sure you had seen Peter in a suit before but never like this. He was all hair gel and muscles in black on black and you weren’t sure your heart could handle it if he kept staring at you like that.

His top two buttons were undone as he held his tie in his hand.

“Thanks Peter. You clean up pretty nicely yourself,” you said before walking over and giving him a kiss on the cheek. 

“Thanks,” he said and had finally looked away long enough so that his own cheeks produced an adorable flush.

“Um, Mrs. Stark said you could give me a hand with this,” he said holding up his tie.

“Of course,” you said, your voice was soft as you tried to ease both of your nerves.

He was silent as you began wrapping the black tie around his neck. The only thing special about it was the single red stripe down the center that matched your gown.

After you were finished the air felt even more awkward, neither of you moving back from your very close proximity. You looked at him, taking in his features and when he looked back you realized that tonight would be intense if he kept up with that stare.

You caught his eyes as they slipped down to peek at your lips and did the same, as he looked back up. A silent affirmation of exactly what he wanted.

He held your waist tightly and pulled you closer to him almost agonizingly slowly. Frustrated, you tugged at his tie and his lips fell softly onto your own.

And that was all it took for you to lose yourself in Peter. Suddenly there was no gala, or press, or superheroes. It was just you and a boy you thought the world of who was holding you and kissing you as if you were the only one who he ever had eyes for.

As you moved your arms to lock around his neck you felt his tighten around your waist and any part of you that wasn’t flush against him had ignited as your body met his.

You could spend the rest of your life completely lost in Peter’s kisses.

That was until three quick raps on the door startled the two of you into breaking apart and look to said door,

“Five minutes, Y/N!” Happy called from the other side and didn’t wait for a reply, just retreating with heavy footsteps.

You and Peter laughed together as you looked back at each other. All the awkwardness from earlier seemingly fading away as you untangled and straightened out your clothes. 

Peter fell into a bow, “Shall we m’lady?” He asked and you laughed squeezing his outstretched hand.

“Yeah let me just fix my lipstick,” you winked at him and he blushed.

•

NEXT CHAPTER

[kaitycole]

In Love with Another Man

Summary: Luke learns the truth about who Drake is and about his parents while Jackson continues reminiscing. 

Word Count: 1500

Pairings: Constantine x Eleanor, Eleanor x Jackson, Jackson x Bianca

Warnings: Mentions of s*x, Mentions of adultery, Mentions of cheating, Betrayal, Mentions of anxiety/panic attack

A/N: This part is shorter than normal because there’s a lot I have outlined for this piece but they don’t mesh well together. So in order to not go crazy or post something I'd hate, I’m breaking it into two parts.

Song Choice: In Love with Another Man by Jazmine Sullivan

Part 15 of WP. To catch up, read here.

Tag List: @fromthedeskofpaisleybleakmore @kingliam2019  @texaskitten30 @glaimtruelovealways​ @bobasheebaby​  @bascmve01​  @burnsoslow​  @the-everlasting-dream​  @ao719​  @sirbeepsalot​  @janezillow​  @i-bloody-love-drake-walker​  @kimmiedoo5​  @choices97​ @marshmallowsaremyfavorite​ @lodberg​  @edgiestwinter​  @marshmallowsandfire​ @hopefulmoonobject​ @iaminlovewithtrr​  @cordonianroyalty​  @rafasgirl23415​  

The creaking of the wooden panels brings Jackson back to reality, he sees his youngest son standing there. He and Eleanor decided that they’d keep their past hidden from Luke, but that was now impossible. In just a few days, Liam would show up and Jackson couldn’t lock Luke in his room or even force him out of the house forever. He lets out a deep sigh before patting the space next to him on the swing.

“Mom would have a fit to see you drinking at,” he pauses to look at his watch, “two-thirty.”

“Luke, I need to tell you something. Something pretty important.” Luke nods and Jackson begins to tell him about his and Eleanor’s past. Trying not to bombard him with too many details, but just enough to where things might make sense. He figures the next time Drake and Liam come, Luke should at least be there and have some knowledge to where he’s not shell-shocked.

Jackson tells him about how he and Eleanor actually met, not the watered down “we met while I was at work” reason he’s used before. He tells him about how were both married, not simply just “seeing other people” and that they had other children. Children they left in another country while they moved to the states to start a life together; a life with him. He and Eleanor never planned on telling Luke any of this. They didn’t want him to feel any of the pain that the whole thing had brought them, but he was trying his best. What were the odds that Drake would come to Montana and run into him? They thought Montana was safe.

“If Drake hadn’t have shown up, would you ever have told me?” Luke is looking at someone who looks like his father, but he has no idea who this person is.

“Luke,” he reaches out but Luke jerks away, “It’s more complicated than that.”

“No it’s really not. Were you ever going to tell me I have three older siblings out there?”

Jackson looks down, letting out a deep breath wishing more than anything that Eleanor was there, “No. We agreed before you were even born that we wouldn’t. We just wanted to protect you.”

He stands up, shaking his head, “All you did was LIE.” He storms off and feel tears fill his eyes. He’s not sad, he’s mad and the fact his body is producing tears makes him angrier. His parents had been lying to him for the last eighteen years. He walks for as long as his legs will take him before he drops to his knees and screams. Never in his life has he felt so betrayed, so lost, so alone. If he couldn’t trust the man who raised him, who could he trust?

*                      *

A couple hours pass before Jackson sees Luke return to the main part of the ranch. He helps put the cattle up, but won’t say a single word to his father. It’s not until they are sitting at the table preparing to eat that Luke finally speaks to Jackson.

“How old are my siblings?” Luke scoots his food around his plate, he didn’t have an appetite at all.

Jackson clears his throat, his fork clinks as he lays it on his plate. “The oldest is Liam, he’s 28, Drake is 27, just a few months younger than Liam and Savannah is 23.”

“Who do I share a mom with?”

“Ah, that’d be Liam. He’ll be in town in a few days.”

Luke loudly scoots the chair back and stomps his way upstairs; leaving his plate full on the table. When he gets to his room, he shuts the door and slides down it; pulling his knees to his chin. His world is shattering, everything changing at a rapid pace and he feels like he can’t catch up. He starts to hyperventilate, struggling to just catch his breath. Tears fill his eyes while his hands not only start to sweat but shake. His face gets a pins and needles sensation as he tries catching his breath, resting his forehead on his knees.

After what feels like hours, Luke finally stands up and heads towards his closet. Digging in the back, he finally drags out a blanket that his mother had made him. He pulls it around himself, even flicking it over his head before he curls up on his bed and cries himself to sleep. Trying to hold on to his happy memories before the betrayal washes them away.

Jackson pours himself another glass of bourbon, slowly pacing his way to the living room and settling down in his chair. He takes a sip before leaning his head back on the chair, thinking back to the last few happy weeks they shared in Cordonia.

*                      *

When Eleanor woke the next morning, Jackson was nowhere in her suite. She figured he would leave since a maid regularly stopped in to wake her, but part of her thought he’d stay. The night before ended with them in each other’s arms, whispering their feelings to each other. Typically, she’d have worn some Cordonian blue dress for when she arrived back to the palace, the press ate it up, but that day she decided to wear a casual outfit: jeans and a striped button up. Constantine wouldn’t be too thrilled, but she found herself not caring anymore. She felt happy with Jackson and at the end of the day, that’s what she cared most about.

It wasn’t until she walked down the hall and closer towards the main door that she saw Jackson; he was wearing his uniform and a concerned expression. She watched him talking to one of the maids before shaking his head and walking out. When they finally got into the town car, she learned that he had an early start due to press swarming the duchy. Though he told her not to worry, Timothy had arrived and escorted the man off the property.

As they rode back towards the palace, in hushed whispered tones, they discussed how important it was for everyone that they conceal their involvement. Agreeing that keeping up with appearances was more important than the jealousy they may feel from it. She already knew Jackson would have a difficult time seeing Constantine by her side and she wasn’t sure how she would feel with Bianca hanging on Jackson, but for everyone sake, they couldn’t get caught. And despite knowing they are having an affair, both refused to label it as such, simply referring to it as complicated.

The first few days back at the palace were awkward; while trying to act normal, all Eleanor and Jackson did was come off as trying too hard to get along. Their first few exchanges were severely cringey. Several palace personnel notice the weirdness, but no one will speak up; no one wants to knock over the card house that it the royal couple. Even though the royal couple seemed to have patched things up since returning from their trips, those who work in their palace wing know better.

Eleanor is chipper and her light as a feather attitude has returned, but Constantine has been spending most days and nights in his study. He keeps their family game nights mostly because he enjoys the time with the children. To his surprise Liam, while mirroring lots of his mother, when it came to critical thinking and strategy, he mirrors his father. The royal couple attempts to maintain their weekly dessert nights; though they are mostly Constantine trying to get her to hear him out while she mindlessly ignores him. Eventually those nights come to an end; Constantine has once against thrown himself into ruling a country while Eleanor’s Friday nights went back to being spent in a study on the west side of the palace with a guardsman.

*                      *

Constantine watches his wife’s attitude bounce back and forth for the next couple of days; icy when he arrives but a warmth when he leaves. As far as he knows, she doesn’t seem to notice he’s already picked it up. But what really threw him off was her aggressive attitude the days Jackson had been temporarily assigned to Applewood due to Officer Novak needing immediate leave.

During Jackson’s time away, Eleanor frequented the king’s suite; more specifically the king’s bed. While Constantine wouldn’t complain, it did cause skepticism with him because she had been cold for so long. But the little warmth she gave to him, brought him hope that they were in fact on the road to recover their relationship. Yet all his hope dissipated when Jackson returned and Eleanor returned to the queen’s suite and the icy demeanor increased.

But while the queen felt she had an upper hand, she failed at realizing that while the king may have been coined the unpredictable king; he was a very observant opponent. And once he had his target locked, it was game over.

[snowflake-of-destruction]

Haynus grass is greener

Very little actual Haynus, mentions of everything else under the sun except some of the ones this au was originally created for. Typing this directly into an ask response was a Mistake 

Save the date, the card pressed into Hayner's hands demanded in curling script overlaying a photo of Ventus with a dark haired woman in his arms. Their foreheads are pressed together and eyes are scrunched closed--tightly so they get creases at the edges that imply smile lines, a calculated gesture--but they still somehow look at peace despite how clear it is that they are posed and his wide smile is strained, possible from effort of keeping his fiancée lifted at the best angle for the photo for however long the photograph needs to set up shots when Ventus isn't used to lifting anything heavier than the brown leather man purse ("It's called a satchel, Hayner. Half my colleagues carry them.") he insists on carrying around even when he visits Hayner on the field, possibly from other reasons. They look happy. Hayner feels a tightness in his throat, so he turns the card over. 

SAVE THE DATE the card commands once more when turned, imperative not leaving Hayner a choice, and gives more information. 

Months away. He has time. 

Time for what he doesn't know.

"She's pretty," Hayner says, hoping casual compliments make up for a bitter tone that would have made him cringe if he had less discipline. He sounds like a jealous teenager. 

He should have said congratulations. You were supposed to say congratulations in these situations. Why did he remember something so basic so late? He can't say congratulations now it's not the first thing out of his mouth, or it's clear he's forcing the nicety.

"Xion's gorgeous," Ventus says her name like a love confession, enamored and oblivious to all else as he smiles at the photo on his desk--a new fixture in the office but an older picture-- that shows the same woman, much younger, clad in a blue and white striped bikini and holding a large blue sunhat on her head with one arm, sat on his lap. Ventus's smile is more carefree here, though the younger Ventus in the photo isn't looking at Xion but staring into the eyes of the boy that sits beside him, bronzed, muscled, and blue eyed with longish brown hair falling into his eyes. His mouth is slightly open so he may have said something just before the picture was snapped. A conversation would explain why Ventus's attention is distracted and the other man is paying no mind to the blue haired girl in the red and white beach sarong that matches the board shorts he's wearing with arms around his neck and cheek pressed to his.

The desk decoration would seem to indicate Ventus and Xion have been together for years, their relationship an immoveable constant even if they did take their time deciding to make commitment official, but Hayner knows better. 

He was left at the altar. The first piece of gossip Hayner had ever learned about Ventus at a faculty party a few years ago that had bored him until the blonde had walked into the room.  Ventus was called poor thing and brave for coming out, so it had been recent then. Hayner had introduced himself, made small talk, but any flirtation was an accident of natural charm. Hayner respected the relationship mourning period. They exchanged numbers, but it was to talk about Doctor Who and Legends of Tomorrow.  He wouldn't take advantage.  There wouldn't be whispers at the next party about how he'd swooped in while Ventus was vulnerable. Besides, when he'd put out a few  casual feelers with other party guests asking whether Ventus's mysterious would-be spouse with poor decision making skills had been a man or a woman the answer had been  disappointing, though he didn't presume that was the final word on Ventus's tastes. A guy could hope at least.

Hope wasn't unfounded as it turned out, but not everyone cared as much about gossip and appearances as Hayner did apparently.  Hayner waited three days to text Ven asking his opinion on his favorite Who companion. Ventus apologized when it took him a few hours to respond. He was out on a date. Vanitas said hi.

Vanitas was a mistake. For anyone at any time. Hayner should know. He struggled over how to tell Ventus without sounding too jealous or too knowledgeable, but Ventus learned quickly enough on his own. The lesson just didn't seem to stick with him. Ventus and Vanitas were on and off again for long stretches of time, hardly ever casual whether they were together or apart, during which Hayner played the role of sympathetic friend and confidante as he and Ventus grew closer. He'd given boyfriend advice and questioned  life decisions that had led to him being a romantic comedy trope, but he hadn't just been biding his time until he won in the end. Not just that. He enjoyed Ventus's company, and he wouldn't ask more than pizza nights, ballgames, and talks about how they didn't understand memes today or even back in their own day, and so were probably never cool. 

Then Vanitas left for a long weekend and came back with a wife. It should have ended the games. Instead, Hayner hadn't even had time to process the news brought to him by Ventus shoving his phone in his face as he elbowed his way through his front door into his living room, or scroll through the blurry, poorly composed pictures Vanitas had sent of him and a pretty, vaguely familiar redhead, standing in front of the Bellagio, posing with a white tiger, in what was only vaguely recognizable as a wedding chapel with what appeared to be a young Tina Turner wearing a balloon crown that matched the ones they were donning for that particular picture, and, in the final photo, flashing matching rings, before Ventus had tacked on, "So, then, I slept with my ex, which made me feel even worse. We're not getting back together...I don't think. It was more...I don't know what it was. I want to say solace, but I think it's revenge. I still want revenge."

Hayner forced out a few comforting words, soothed Ven that it couldn't be revenge. He was too good a person to use others like that, even if he had the thoughts. He'd been confused and hurt. It was understandable. Ventus should have come to him, not to his ex. 

Ventus had started to explain how he'd ended up with his ex, something about visiting his brother and finding the ex at Roxas's house, which should have raised even more red flags, but Ventus switched the subject halfway through and asked, "If I had come to you, do you think the night would have gone much differently?" too coy and composed to completely jive with the distressed image of a few minutes prior.

Over breakfast the next morning, they'd had a much more productive talk about Ventus's issues with both Vanitas and Xion, and what patterns needed to be broken before Ventus attempted any serious connection with someone new. Hayner had made it clear he didn't mind giving Ventus time and space to sort himself out. A little more waiting wouldn't hurt. A year of being single was what Ventus suggested for himself. 

Apparently, Ventus had decided he wanted to make the same mistake twice with the girl who had left him at the altar, and this had to be where Hayner drew a line.

"You'll come, right?" The faith in Ventus's eyes made him physically ill.

" 'Course." He never had a chance.

There were plays worth of monologues Hayner wanted to make, but words cut his tongue and the roof of his mouth like shards of glass when he tried to force them out.

A polite, perfunctory knock on the frame of the open door to announce that Ventus had another visitor, probably one more appropriate for his office hours, saved Hayner from his struggle. High hemline, pigtails, a parody of a cliche that asked, "Professor, is this a bad time? I need to talk to you about my last essay."  Hayner excused himself before the student could say she couldn't afford the bad grade Ventus had given her and she'd do anything to raise it. At least that's what Hayner uncharitably assumed the dialogue would be. 

Later, Hayner would be shown a picture of Strelizia Wynn and swear he didn't know her personally but he recognized her face and he'd seen her with Ventus on that day.

Both Ventus and Hayner ended up hurt by the fact Hayner hadn't walked away sooner.

[princess-of-the-corner]

Hero Chat AU – Miracle Queen

I know I discussed Loveater and Miracle Queen, but I wanted to go more in-depth on the battle!

Quick summary on Loveater before we go into Miracle Queen:

Chloé was part of the Adrien/Marinette/Kagami shenanigans in that episode as they’re friends now and she really did not want to be at the party

There is panic over the Adrien/Marinette/Kagami love triangle with the ice cream, but it’s resolved by saying that they don’t want to make that decision right now.

Also I changed Kagami’s ice cream flavor to raspberry because it makes more sense than ornage

So Adrien got blackberry and raspberry, Marinette got mint and raspberry, and Kagami got blackberry and mint.

When Loveater attacked, Chloé sits this one out because fighting her parents will make her be off her game and possibly more of a liability than helpful, but resolves to join if Venom is needed

Mari and Adrien already left in the first place, and Ladybug grabs Kagami for legit reasons, not just because she’s alone with Adrien(partly because she knows Kagami is not alone with Adrien)

Chloé is left alone, and Hawkmoth shows up

On to Miracle Queen

Hawkmoth offers for Chloé to work with him

He doesn’t know she’s Honeybee, so he says that if they work together, he’ll release her parents and she can get the Bee Miraculous back, becoming Queen Bee to work for him.

Since he doesn’t have the Bee Miraculous, he offers her the Tiger instead, making a joke about how he felt she might appreciate the stripes.

Chloé plays along, taking the Tiger Miraculous, calling herself ‘Tiger Empress’ to fit with the Queen Bee theme, and letting him release her parents.

She then uses the Tiger’s ability (Invisibility) to escape.

Though Chloé debates about trying to steal Hawkmoth’s Miraculous, she doesn’t feel confident enough to pull it off without using Venom, but doesn’t want to let him know she had the Bee the whole time.

As using Chloé fell through, Hawkmoth goes with plan B: Lila

He shows up to wherever Lila is and offers her a Miraculous.

Lila throws a fit over the fact that he can’t give her the Fox, but accepts one of the others. It doesn’t matter which one as she doesn’t use it’s power, but I think Hawkmoth would give her the dog as a low-key fuck you

Hawkmoth then Akumatizes Lila into Miracle Queen. She still has the original’s powers, as that’s what Hawkmoth was intending on giving Chloé. Though Lila’s version is more... obnoxiously extra in an attempt to look regal

Meanwhile, Chloé finds the other Heroes and updates them on the situation.

And by other Heroes, I include Ladybug, Chat, Rena, Carapace, and Arashi(Kagami)

They dodge Miracle Queen’s bees by jumping in the water. The Main Five have that Aqua Upgrade, and they either shared with Kagami or she just did the thing where their weapons can be used to breathe underwater.

Chloé does pause to bitch about how Miracle Queen is just knock off Queen Wasp, and even if she doesn’t like the whole Queen Wasp incident, she is pissed that Lila is trying to steal her look

Side note: Part of the situation is asking what happened to Master Fu, as he doesn’t have the Turtle in this AU:

Roaar was aware of what was happening and can fill them in

When Hawkmoth attacked, Master Fu attempted to escape using the Horse Miraculous. He got out, but Hawkmoth has the Miracle Box.

Miracle Queen stings everyone else

Instead of the specific ‘All Miraculous Users come work for me!’ order, she just gathers the class in the hopes to show off/manipulate them and also have some passive-aggressive fun at their expense when giving out Miraculous.

By that I mean insulting them with her choices. Giving Mylene the Pig(poking at her weight), giving Sabrina the rooster(chicken), etc.

No one ends up with their ‘Canon’ Miraculous, and identities are safe.

They show up to fight, and the first thing Honeybee does is dual-wield the Bee and Tiger, calling her fusion ‘Majesty’

Hawkmoth is all ‘how the fuck did you get the Tiger??’

Majesty makes up a lie, saying that Chloé went to try to find them, updated them on what Hawkmoth tried to do, and then handed over the Tiger.

This helps cement the fact that Chloé will never work with Hawkmoth, and he can’t manipulate her by offering a Miraculous

Hawkmoth still has a card to play there, as he could come clean to Chloé about his motives in hope that she’ll turn to the darkside to save Emilie too, but he’s saving that for if he gets real desperate

After that, most of the team ends up dual-wielding as they fight the class and take the Miraculous back

We still have Snake Noir(though Chloé calls him ‘Ferret’ because cat-snake!), and his outfit is way different because of the previously mentioned Upgrades(I might draw that tbh…)

Not sure what Rena and Carapace dual wield. I will be taking suggestions on that.

Ladybug grabs the rest of them, though she only activates a couple for the fight.

Kagami doesn’t get to, as she’s still in her Water Dragon form keeping the bees at bay.

Eventually, using the Tiger’s invisibility, Majesty sneaks up on Miracle Queen and stings her with Venom, which also freezes all the fighters.

Since Akumatizing Lila again wouldn’t help as she’s paralyzed by Venom, Hawkmoth doesn’t try and instead cuts his losses, making his escape.

No one’s at risk of detransforming due to the Dual Wielding thing.

Like, Majesty’s Tiger Transformation wore off, leaving her as Honeybee, but after Honeybee’s timer started, she fed Roaar, transformed into Majesty again, and then detransformed into just Tiger Empress(though no one notices as Hawkmoth already left)

Well, Kagami’s only used 1/3 of her powers so she’s fine too.

Although the Team is quickly losing energy from Dual Weilding, but they’re hanging in and not letting it show

The Team stays by to explain to the classmates what happen

Kim, Max and Alix all try to apologize to getting hit without outing their identities, and Ladybug assures them that it’s okay, it happened to everyone. It probably even happened to her in some of Snake Noir’s resets.

Once they unfreeze Lila, they have to deal with her.

Lila pretends to play nice, claiming to be Akumatized over what happened in Ladybug, as she feels like her friends don’t trust her anymore!

The classmates who still believe her all rush to assure her that they still love her! It’s not her fault she has that disease that makes her lie when stressed!

The Team is so not buying it. As they’re suspicious of how often Lila gets Akumatized, especially because this is the second time she was Hawkmoth’s Plan B when Chloé didn’t work out.

The Team is suspicious af, but they can’t really accuse her of anything. So for now, they settle for getting the Dog Miraculous back from her.

Lila hesitates, as she wants to keep some sort of power for herself that she could use

But she’s still convincing the class she’s sweet and innocent. Not to mention she knows she can’t take on six Heroes at once with a Miraculous she’s never used.

So she reluctantly hands over the Dog Miraculous

As for Master Fu:

Since he escaped, he didn’t have to give up the Miracle Box.

However, the whole incident makes him realize how he’s too old for this. He’s been realizing it ever since Hawkmoth first appeared, when he couldn’t transform and fight so he had to pick new heroes.

But this is the (thankfully metaphorical) nail in the coffin on that. Because the Team protected the Miraculous better than he had. And Marinette’s insistence on having the team made it easier to fight

(Mari was the one who pushed for permanent Heroes back after Heroes’ Day. Master Fu was against it, but she convinced him and was right.)

Master Fu gives up the Miracle Box in a more ‘not a desperate last-ditch effort’ way that lets him keep his memories.

He then meets up with his girlfriend whose name I always forget(Sorry!)

The two of them leave the country. It should be safe as Hawkmoth seems to stay in Paris.

Marinette does still have his number to talk to him, but for safety reasons they agree that she should only use it in major emergencies.

Marinette is still in charge of the Miracle Box now.

Also fuck you the thing stays looking the same and not like a spotted egg

Due to all this happening, Marinette decides that the Miraculous would be better hidden if separated. If Hawkmoth gets his hands on the box again, she wants there to be less for him to have.

The Temporary Heroes keep their Miraculous, but are instructed to only fight when needed, or if they’re in danger.

Though they all go out on Patrol Nights, since that had been Zodiac Team Training Time anyway.

It also makes patrols and the sleepovers easier, as Ladybug doesn’t have to hand out the Miraculous individually now.

Okay I think that’s it. For now!

[brokenmimir]

When Eyes Meet, A Battle Begins

White Rose Week 2019, Day 8: Free Day

All the stories talked about meeting a rival on your Pokémon journey, one who would challenge you again and again and keep you on your toes. Ruby just hadn't expected her's to be so pretty.

I've never gotten into the anime, and this probably got a bit too into the weeds with staying true to the video game. Still, I'm a huge fan of the games, so this was fun to do. I also wrote this before the new Corgi based Electric Pokémon got announced, which is obviously an even better fit for Zwei.

White Rose Week has been a blast, and I hope everyone has enjoyed themselves as much as I have.

https://archiveofourown.org/works/19253242

“Zwei, you can do it!” Ruby shouted, bouncing in place. “Use Tackle!”

The Lillipup bent its tiny legs, before launching itself forward with a cheerful bark. It slammed into the small, bud-like Pokémon, sending it reeling back. With a grin she pulled out a Poké Ball and tossed it, catching the Grass-type inside. The ball rocked back and forth for a moment, making her bite her lip with worry, before it finally settled down with a click.

“Yes!” Ruby shouted, jumping up and down. “We did it, Zwei! We caught the… uh… the something!”

Before she could retrieve the Poké Ball and use her Pokédex to figure out what the cute little Pokémon was, a voice scoffed behind her. “You don't even recognize a Budew? What kind of trainer are you?”

Ruby turned around, and found herself stunned at the sight in front of her. The girl couldn't be more than a year or two older than her own fifteen years, and without her heeled boots she might have been even shorter than her own barely five foot height. Despite that she looked elegant and refined in a way that Ruby had never seen in real life, even standing along the forested trail of Vale Route 4.

“Well, are you going to say anything?” the girl demanded.

Ruby blushed and looked down at herself. She was a bit dusty, having spent the last few days living out of a Pokécenter while trying to fill Professor Ozpin's Pokédex. She'd already caught a few new friends to go with Zwei, the Lillipup her father had bred for her when she was still a little girl, but she suddenly found herself wishing that she'd spent at least a little more time on her appearance. Her dusty, grass stained black and red dress and beloved red cape, looked silly next to the other girl's perfect white dress and bolero jacket.

Why did she care, though? She'd never worried about what anyone else thought of her looks before. In the end she fell back on habit, meeting the girl's blue eyes, one of which had a really cool scar, and offering a challenge. “We've made eye contact. That means we have to fight.”

She smirked. “Hmph. Perhaps you're not a total loss as a trainer if you at least know that. Prepare to be defeated by Weiss Schnee!”

“Well- well you prepare to be defeated by Ruby Rose!” she responded, to which Zwei added a cheerful bark. “That's right, Zwei! Let's get her!”

The two faced each other down, Weiss pulling out a Poké Ball and throwing it out. “Myrtenaster, let's show this girl who's boss!”

From the Poké Ball emerged a Pokémon like nothing Ruby had ever seen before. It appeared to be a fancy, elegant sword, with a long, scarf-like blue tassel emerging from its pommel. The weapon floated in midair, and she could see decorations on the hilt that resembled eyes and a grimacing mouth.

“Alright Zwei, use Baby-Doll Eyes!” Ruby shouted.

Zwei barked, and focused on Myrtenaster, his big, glistening, incredibly cute eyes making it hesitate. Ruby still wasn't sure what kind of Pokémon the sword was, but nothing was immune to Zwei's cuteness.

The other trainer wasn't immune, either. “Ahh! It's so cute!”

“I know,” Ruby said with a grin. “Nothing's cuter than Zwei!”

Finally shaking off the cuteness overload, Weiss pointed dramatically at the Lillipup. “Myrtenaster, use Fury Cutter!”

The sword hesitated, obviously not wanting to hurt the cute little puppy, but eventually it swung its body. Ruby braced herself, worried for her cutie, but the hit didn't do too much damage. Zwei shook it off, barking confidently as he set himself again.

“Good boy!” Ruby shouted, suddenly much more confident. She didn't know what Myrtenaster was, but she wasn't afraid of it if it could only hit that hard. “Use Tackle!”

Zwei jumped forward… and flew right through the Pokémon, not hitting it at all. Ruby blinked, confused, but he hadn't missed. The attack simply hadn't done anything at all.

Besides making the other trainer laugh. “Really? Don't you know Ghost-types are immune to Normal-type moves? Your Lillipup doesn't stand a chance against Myrtenaster!”

“Oh yeah?” Ruby said. “Well, um, your face doesn't stand a chance either! And it's not like yours did much either!”

Weiss smirked. “Didn't it, though? Myrtenaster, Fury Cutter again!”

The sword-shaped Pokémon attacked again, using the same move, but this time it hit harder. Still, Zwei was a tough little Lillipup, and he was okay even with several more hits like that one. She had a secret weapon ready, just for jerky Ghost types. And finding cookies. Mostly the cookies. “Zwei, use Odor Sleuth!”

The Lillipup sniffed the air, focusing in on Myrtenaster. Weiss just ordered her Pokémon to attack again, this time hitting poor Zwei hard. He kept his feet, but Ruby fretted, almost going for some medicine before she realized what was going on.

“Figured it out?” Weiss asked. “Fury Cutter is twice as powerful every time it hits! Next one's gonna take your little doggy down!”

“Not if I have anything to say about it,” Ruby said confidently. “Zwei, use Tackle!”

“That won't work, you dolt,” Weiss chuckled. “Myrtenaster's a Ghost-type, remember?”

The Lillipup charged forward, but this time instead of passing through he slammed into his opponent, knocking it back a bit. “Now who's a dolt,” Ruby said triumphantly. “Odor Sleuth lets Normal-Types hit Ghosts.”

“You're still the dolt, dolt,” Weiss said, blushing at having not known that. “Myrtenaster, finish that cute little Pokémon off.”

Myrtenaster swung one more time, this time sending Zwei tumbling back. Ruby ran over to him, but while obviously out of the fight he wasn't too hurt. Still, it was with a heavy heart that she had to recall Zwei to his Poké Ball.

“Is he alright?” Weiss asked.

Ruby looked over at the other girl, and felt herself smile just a little. She'd been kinda acting like a jerk, but if she cared about her opponent's Pokémon then she wasn't a bad person. “He'll be okay.”

Weiss returned to her cocky stance, resting one hand on her hip as a smirk stretched across her face. “Ready to give up?

“No way!” Ruby shouted, pulling out another Poké Ball. Silently she thanked her Uncle, grateful for the training trip he'd brought her on that had led to her getting this Pokémon. “Crescent Rose, let's kick her butt!”

The Pokémon was strange looking, with a four legged posture, light pink fur, blue eyes, and a huge red scythe blade sticking out of one side of its head. Ruby felt her chest puff out with pride as she saw her opponent's reaction to the unusual Pokémon.

“No way!” she said. “Is that a Shiny Absol?”

“Yup,” Ruby said. “Your Ghost-type is going down. Crescent Rose, use Bite!”

The Absol jumped forward, opening the mouth in its strangely human-like face and taking a large bite out of Myrtenaster. Crescent Rose was too powerful for the Ghost-type, taking it down in a single bite.

“Alright, so you've got some good Pokémon,” Weiss said, making a face as she recalled the sword-like Pokémon. “I'll still beat you!”

“Bring it on,” Ruby said with a grin.

“Hmph,” Weiss harrumphed, hesitating for a moment, before pulling out another Poké Ball. “Glyph, you can do it!”

The Pokémon had green hair with two red, disk-like horns, and red eyes. Its body looked like it was wearing a white tutu, and it danced in place like a ballerina on two legs.

“That's a Kirlia!” Ruby said, recognizing it from Trainer school. “Absol's are immune to Psychic-type moves!”

“But they're weak to Fairy moves!” Weiss shouted. “Glyph, use Disarming Voice!”

The Pokémon shouted, a wave of energy emerging from its mouth to strike Ruby's Absol, knocking it back and hurting it badly. Still, Crescent Rose was tough, and she wasn't defeated by one hit. “Crescent Rose, use Bite!”

It hit hard, but the Kirlia withstood it. Ruby had forgotten that being a Fairy-type also helped it resist Dark attacks. “Glyph, finish off that Absol!” Ruby winced, bracing herself for the attack, but the shout left Crescent Rose still standing… barely. Still, she needed something else, so she quickly recalled the Absol, pulling out her last Poké Ball. If this didn't do it she was in a lot of a trouble. “Come on, Wormy, you can do it!”

“Wormy?” Weiss asked, raising a skeptical eyebrow.

Ruby threw out the Poké Ball anyway, revealing a three foot tall bee with lance like cones for forearms. After seeing it Weiss scoffed and tossed her hair. “Seriously? A Beedrill? Why did you name it Wormy?”

Ruby blushed and poked her finger tips together. “I caught her when she was a Weedle and thought she looked like a cute little worm. I didn't know what she turned into.”

“Dolt,” Weiss said, rolling her eyes. “Glyph, its a poison type, so use Confusion!”

“Wormy, hit Glyph with Poison Jab!”

The Beedrill was fast, much faster than the Kirlia, and it slammed one of its poisonous lances into the other Pokémon, taking it down in one blow before it could move. With a sour look on her face Weiss pulled out another Poké Ball. “This is my last Pokémon, a gift from my sister when I was young. He's more than enough to beat you, though!”

She tossed the Poké Ball, and out came one of the most adorable Pokémon Ruby had ever seen. It looked like a spherical ball of striped fur, but with two tiny slits for eyes, and a pig nose at the front. She couldn't see any legs or mouth, but its little nose moved up and down as it grunted cutely.

“That's adorable!” Ruby gushed. “What is it?”

“This is Boarbatusk, my Swinub,” Weiss said proudly. “Swinub, use Mud Bomb!”

“Wormy, Posion Jab!” Ruby replied.

Wormy was faster again, but this time the hit barely did any damage. The Swinub oinked loudly, before somehow launching a clod of densely packed mud with a flick of its body. It slammed into the Beedrill, doing quite a bit of harm.

“Swinub is an Ice/Ground type,” Weiss said. “Your Poison type doesn't stand a chance. Hit it again!”

Seeing how hurt the Beedrill was Ruby bit her lip, before she remembered what it could do. “Yeah, well… Wormy has the Swarm ability, so Bug-type moves are way more effective now that he's hurt. Wormy, use Twineedle!”

The Beedrill darted forward, slamming its two lances into Boarbatusk. The Swinub was obviously badly hurt by the enhanced attacked, but it wasn't enough. Ruby felt her heart fall as the Swinub replied with another mud ball… only for it to miss completely.

“No!” Weiss shouted.

“Wormy, finish it off!”

The bug darted forward, slamming its lances into the Swinub again before it could move, knocking the Pokémon unconscious. “Alright! You did it Wormy! Good job!”

“Here,” Weiss said, tossing some money at her. She looked upset, and Ruby could understand why since nobody liked losing. Still…

“You were amazing,” Ruby said.

“Not enough, obviously, since I failed,” Weiss said.

“You just lost 'cause you got unlucky,” Ruby said. “If that Mud Bomb had hit I'd've lost Wormy.”

“You still had Crescent Rose,” Weiss pointed out, looking only a little mollified by her words.

“Yeah, but she was hurt pretty bad,” Ruby said. “I'm not sure if she could've beaten your Swinub.”

“I guess we'll never know,” Weiss said with a sigh as she gathered up her Poké Balls.

Ruby bit her lip, before running over and grabbing her own, as well as the Budew that she'd captured before the fight started. When she turned around she saw Weiss already starting to walk off. “Wait! Where are you going?”

“To get my team fixed up,” Weiss said.

“Let me go with you,” Ruby said. “Mine's pretty beat up, too.”

Weiss hesitated for a moment. “Fine.”

Ruby ran up beside her, grinning brightly. “You're really good, you know.”

Weiss shook her head. “I lost.”

“Yeah, but, I mean, we're both pretty new as trainers, right?” Ruby said. “We both only have three Pokémon on our team. The best way to get better is to lose, or at least that's what my dad always said.”

“My father told me a Schnee should never lose,” Weiss said.

“Well, he sounds dumb,” Ruby decided. “I mean, you're awesome and you lost, so losing can't be that bad.”

“You are such a dolt,” Weiss muttered.

Ruby grinned. “Come on, it's getting pretty late. Let's get some dinner while our teams are getting healed!”

Weiss looked at her for a long moment, before blushing and turning her face away. “You're paying.”

Ruby plucked up the courage that led her to become a Pokémon trainer in the first place. “Of course! You're always supposed to pay when you ask someone out on a date, right?”

If Weiss had been blushing before, it was nothing compared to how red she turned with those words. She still managed to raise her chin in the air proudly when she spoke again. “Good, at least you know that much. But if you intend on courting me, I expect you to also prepare yourself appropriately for the evening.”

“I will!” Ruby promised, desperately hoping she had something in her pack to wear on a proper date. She also suddenly wished she hadn't run and hid whenever Yang tried to teach her how to put on make up.

“Good,” Weiss said primly, before looking away as she reached over and grabbed Ruby's hand. It was cool and soft, and fit her own perfectly. She wasn't sure which of the two turned more red at the contact, but while Weiss kept her expression stoic Ruby grinned from ear to ear.

What had she gotten herself into?

“Don't think this means I've forgotten you won by luck this time,” Weiss said, squeezing her hand a little. “I'm going to beat you next time!”

She couldn't wait to find out.

[bmlycr-blog]

Superman & Superboy

I noticed it just a second too late. It must have been a microscopic speck. But I could feel it. Kryptonite.

I was having breakfast with my brand new sidekick, Gad. He sought me out after a battle one day and begged to join me. I refused and flew away. I don’t take sidekicks anymore. But battle after battle, he kept showing up and asking. He was insistent, and I liked that. But one look tells you he is not fighting material. He bleached and dyed his hair in chunks of red, blue, and gold, and he’s got a few nose and eyebrow piercings that tell me he doesn’t take things seriously. He’s got some lean muscle— maybe he swims or runs— but he lacks strength. I ask him what his specialty is— karate, wrestling, MMA? “Mechanical engineering!” he proudly replies. I stare at this college punk in disbelief. How will he ever fight crime with equations? “...and also Tai Chi!” What!? You mean the slow walking thing for old people? I roll my eyes and start to fly away when I realize his engineering skills could be useful at home. “Can you fix complex machinery?” His eyes beamed as reassured me of his excellent skills and years of experience with advanced machines, modern robots, “anything on the cutting edge of modern technology.” “Well, that sounds great! I think you would be the perfect person to take a look at my broken coffee machine.” He made a feeble attempt at suppressing an eyeroll, graciously thanked me, and came over the next day.

Over the weeks he actually proved useful, not just fixing, but also improving my equipment. Not that I needed any of it for battle, but I have to spy on my enemies somehow. One day, after a battle, I returned home and looked for Gad. I searched around and was startled by a voice behind me: “Hey Superman...” I turned around and saw... me... or was it me? I recognized the tight blue lycra suit, which clings tightly around my body, snuggling every muscle. Even today, I can still feel how with even subtle movements of my body, or while fighting, the lycra rubs and groans against my skin. Or how the lycra compresses my body to be tight and firm in Earth’s pathetically weak gravity. But I saw something else... something I hadn’t seen in a long time... those bright red briefs.

I used to wear them long ago. They looked great with my red boots and cape. Those briefs were the focal point of the image of masculinity and strength I projected. They sculpted my meaty manhood into a smooth, plump bulge, on display for all to see. They showed the world that yes, I am a SuperMAN. And unlike Earth men, my balls were not a point of weakness. Many villains tried to bust me. But I am the Man of Steel, they are too weak to hurt me. I am clearly more of a man than they are. But over the years, Earth’s conservative culture began to chip away. I could tell my humble parents quietly didn’t approve. Others would often bring up my red briefs in conversation, making things awkward. And I noticed that other superheroes worked to hide their bulges. Eventually I caved and decided to drop the red briefs. That was years ago. I had almost forgotten about them. But now, here they were... in front of me. Oh, they looked so great, even better than my memory. How they restrain my package by squeezing my balls just right. I remember the intense feeling of running my fingers over my briefs, how the texture of the tight and shiny fabric transmitted my fingertips to my scrotum. Yes, I remember these feelings, as I am looking at this bright red, plump bulge in front of me, and just as I—

“Superman! Um... Helloooo...?” Huh? It’s... it’s Gad? “I see you like my outfit”, he said with a cheeky smirk. “S-sorry, Gad, I—“ “No. My name is not Gad anymore. I am now Superboy, your sidekick.” Wait— What!? My sidekick!? He’s weak! He doesn’t have superpowers. How can I take him to battle? He would be destroyed. I’d have to rescue him every time. No way I could ever rely on this scrappy punk. He still hasn’t even gotten around to fixing the coffee machine! “Better you stay at home and do what you do best.” He looked at me with utter heartbreak.

So the following weeks were pretty much the same, except that Superboy went about his tasks in his super suit with bright red briefs. Fine by me. Every time I saw him come around, I found myself glancing at his jewels. And, embarrassingly, I only later realized I got semi hard when looking at Superboy’s package. Now I need to be clear. I am not gay. Many men have thrust themselves upon me, and I have never felt attraction for them. But Superboy is different, perhaps because he somehow is a version of me. A scrawny, nerdy, rainbow-headed hipster version of me, but it is me nonetheless. But I must admit, he is well endowed! His cock is about average length, but has proper girth. His balls are that of a champion. His manhood fills the briefs to the brim, leaving a somewhat floppy basket that tastefully balances smoothness and detail. Meanwhile for me, I always felt Earth tailors had difficulty with my generous manhood. My bulges always felt a little bit too restrained in comparison. That makes for a tight and super smooth bulge, and this has its appeal, especially in movies for prude Earthlings. But I can see that Superboy enjoys more freedom in his fabric, which shows off more details of his manhood. I admire the audacity he has to showcase his finely clad bulge.

I asked him over breakfast about his choice to bring back the red briefs. His face lit up as he told me how, years ago, he saw me in an old movie wearing those red briefs. He wondered why I chose them, so he searched around online for men’s fashion on Krypton. That was not easy. After exhaustively looking through increasingly distant planets, he found a long-lost archive of images of men’s fashion from Krypton. He pulled out his phone and showed me images of all kinds of Kryptonian men. They all wore spandex suits. And they all showed off their bulges! “There was a sophisticated culture around showing off that you were a man. Look, here was the prime minister!” This was a man much stronger than me. And his enormous sky blue bulge prominently protruded from an elegant outfit of lycra and other fabrics. Just as I start to think about how I’ve been suppressing my Kryptonian, bulge-displaying heritage all these years, I realized that with the spoonful of cereal I just ate I swallowed a speck of Kryptonite.

Ok. Panic. Wait. Breathe. Ok. First, it’s not enough to kill me. All right. But how much is it? I could barely sense it at first, but now it’s inside me. This isn’t good. I feel dizzy. “We are in trouble.” I murmur. As a I start to slip away, henchmen break through the windows and kidnap us.

I awake to find myself in an arena. Again. I see my sidekick tied to a frame with his arms and legs spread out, exposing his vulnerable bulge. Again. And surprise, who else is standing next to him, again, but Lex Luther. This time he is wearing an all-white spandex body suit that has no chance of concealing his hard-on. Lex has been the reason why I don’t have sidekicks. The moment he finds out, he has us abducted, and devises some sadistic game of torture that ends up destroying my sidekick’s balls. I remember my first sidekick, Blue Lightning, who got his balls zapped and smashed with Thor’s hammer. Or The Crusher— he was a very strong human, I had high hopes for him— but Lex used a mortar and pestle to pound and grind his balls to a pathetic pulp. Or poor Sky Sailor, who could actually fly (sorta), but was no match for Lex’s steel boots. I remember kicks #47 and #51, which were each punctuated by a distinct popping sound and the extraordinarily agonized wail of a man who was losing his manhood. I never met any of my former sidekicks after they suffered their emasculating hazing ritual with Lex. I imagine they are ruined. Human men are so weak.

I look at Superboy futilely struggling to escape his restraints. This time is different. Lex doesn’t have some random sidekick wannabe up there. That’s me up there! He is going to attack me! He is going to hurt my long-lost red bulge. I can’t let him get away with this. I rush at him and find myself knocked back by a shield. “Oh ho ho, Superman.” You know attacking me is against the rules of our game. Penalty: ten hits.” A tennis ball cannon emerges from the ground underneath Superboy. Its barrel is pointed straight at Superboy’s package. “BOOM—GAAAAAAAHHH!... BOOM—RRRGGGHHHHHHH!... BOOM—AAAAAOOOOOUUUGGGGHHHHH!...” Every muscle in his face and body are working hard against his restraints. But despite all his struggling, his bright red target remains in the crossfire. Watching Superboy suffer like this makes me feel sympathy for the first time for an Earth man’s suffering. I wonder what the pain must feel like... pain in the very part of a man’s body that is supposed to define strength.

“Ok Superman. Be prepared to fight my army of robots.” I roll my eyes. Villains try robots from time to time. They might work against other superheroes, but I always crush them like a soda can. “And remember, for every robot you destroy, I will launch 20 tennis balls at your pathetic doppelgänger.” As the robots emerge, I realize there is no way Superboy is going to withstand hundreds of tennis balls. I take one last look at him. At his tense body and and flinching face. At his beautiful bright red bulge. This is goodbye, Superboy. I face the robots and start walking toward them, surveying the different ones. And then it hits me.

I remember Krypton. I remember it now clearly even though I was a baby. The planet was going unstable and about to explode. Before my parents placed me in the rocket, all around us men were screaming, holding their balls. My father— oh, my own father!— wearing a black bodysuit with a bright red stripe running down the center and accentuating his bulge. The look on his face... agony and strength... Why were his balls and everyone else‘s balls in pain? Did it have to do with the planet? Were Krypton’s men connected to the health of their planet? That connection. That pain. I am starting to feel it. Wait, I am? My balls? They are hurting? How?

I snap out of it. Yes, it hit me. An impact. A comet strike? My balls? Ohgod no no my balls they hurt. Wait is that really pain? ow... owowOWOWOWOWOW I’m not supposed to feel that much pain down there! That’s my manhood! They can’t! They—OOOOOOWWWWWWWW!! My balls squish, squirm, and squeeze around my suit, while wobbling, vibrating, and aching. The crushing pain of the impact gives way to waves of aches that wash across my body and focus on my strained abdomen. My ears are ringing, the outside world is tuned out, all I know is this pain. I observe myself slowly collapsing on the ground. I clutch my tender crotch and massage it with a whimper. I now understand the warm relief a hand can lend. I now understand the weakness that comes with the strength of men. I now understand ballpain.

“....aaahahahahaahaaa.... Oh this is even better. I finally got you, Superballs! After... decades? These robots are powered by neopyrrhium, an element that existed on Krypton and is extremely hard to find. That robot used neopyrrhium to crash a steel ball into the Man of Steel faster than the speed of light. You could have never noticed! Oh yes, my robots are stronger and faster than you. And finally I will crush you and your pathetic balls.”

With a burning ache in my groin, and my sore abs, I grit my teeth and jump into the air. I’m Superman. I’m not going to let Lex get away with this. But in an instant I get lassoed by a cowboy robot and he yanks me back to the ground. My arms are tied up, and I thrash my legs about. The robot, wearing steel toed cowboy boots, grabs my ankles and gaspedals me. I squirm and groan. I can’t grab my balls for relief. He stops, and then produces a jackhammer, which he mashes into my crotch and turns on full blast. Each pound of the jackhammer digs into my tender orbs, causing a sharp, stabbing pain that makes me afraid that my balls will be split in half.

But I eventually use my heat vision to break my arms free and yank the robot’s legs out causing it to fall. I quickly zoom away, but I find myself tangled yet again. This time it‘s some octopus robot. My arms and legs are completely ensnared. Then another tentacle slurps onto my bulge, and begins sucking and vibrating! Ohhhhh I have never felt anything like this before, it actually feels good, especially after the busts I suffered. More at ease, I think of Superboy, and his bright red bulge. Superboy. Oh right, Superboy! I can’t stay here like this, I need to save him! I try to struggle to break free. I work hard to pull my bulge out of the tentacle. Every time I pull away, my balls groan at the extra suction caused. The harder I try the more they ache. Eventually I free my balls with a “plop!” and slip my limbs out of the tentacles. I zoom away as fast possible.

I check my package. Huh, my balls are easily 2-3x the size. And a quick flick test told me they are a lot more than just 2-3x more sensitive. And my cock was swollen and pointing straight up, exposing my balls further. This is bad. Have I met my match? I can’t think about this, because a group of five karate robots rushes toward me. I surprise them by zooming to the one that is straying further away from the pack. I use all my strength to take it out, and it cracks and hisses as it flails uselessly about before collapsing. “Good job, Superman. Finally, one robot down.” And then “BOOM—AAUUUGGGHHHHHHH!” I turn briefly to see Superboy screaming and squirming, but I can’t lose focus. One hit from these robots and I am down. I start attacking the rest, but I can only really keep up with them. It takes a lot of awareness to keep track of these four robots surrounding and attacking me. But I constantly lose focus due to the throbbing pain in my tender balls, and to the series of screams coming from Superboy. On hit #18, Superboy lets out a whimper after a scream. Oh no, is he really hurt? Should I— oh wait no, don’t lose focus— and with that, one robot lands a solid uppercut to my balls. Yeeeooowwwww! I feel that fist connect with my potato-sized balls, which are then firmly clamped to my pelvis and transmit the impact which launches me in the air and toward another robot. Before I get the chance to react, this robot nut-punts me back into the air toward another one. They take turns playing hacky sack with my balls this way. After an agonizing eternity, they stop and I curl up on the ground. Three robots then pin me down, and the fourth one uses my sack as a punching bag. Punch after lunch, I start to fade out, overcome by the pain. I see Lex has won. I should surre—

“Enough!” Lex stops the robots. “Seems like you’re too weak to destroy your sidekick. Here why don’t I give him back to you. That way you can both be crushed side-by-side.” He said this while stroking his raging salmon. I was mortified. If these robots introduced me to pain, I can’t imagine how an Earth man would respond. Superboy is going to be completely pulverized. He is doomed. Lex unties Superboy and tosses him into the arena. He collapses on the ground as a heap of flesh and lycra and pain. I can see his hands massaging his battered bulge and can hear his soft groans. Lex starts the robots again, and my robot resumes pounding on me. My eyes are on Superboy. He gets up. One of the robots approaches him. Looks like a boxing robot. This robot is probably almost as strong as me. Just one low blow to Superboy’s bright red briefs will spell the end.

The robot wastes no time in launching the first strike. And the robot... misses? And misses again? Um, was this robot defective? I focus to slow down my perception of time. I see Superboy calmly slipping past the robot’s attacks. It’s very subtle, it looks like he isn’t doing anything at all. After letting the robot try to attack a few times, he leaps into the air with a front flip over the robot. This is a marvelous sight, seeing him launch himself in the air in slo-mo, his scissor legs showing off his bright red bulge as it arcs over. While in mid-air, he quickly thrusts his arm into an opening in the back of the robot’s neck and pulls out some wires. The robot sizzles and seizes, toppling to the ground. I had no idea Superboy was capable of this. It was beautiful spectacle. My robot starts punching more frequently, and I lose my slo-mo focus. Through clenched teeth and screaming testes, I see how the cowboy robot sneaks up behind Superboy. He tosses his lasso, and again it looks like he misses while Superboy just stands there. It takes a few tries before I observe the cowboy robot getting tossed over Superboy onto the ground. Did he grab the lasso and yank on it at just the right time? Superboy jumps on the fallen robot, and again seems to find the right spot to pull out wires and cause fireworks. He continues to make light work of many of the other robots. As the pile of scrap metal grows, I can see the increasingly confused and panicked look on Lex’s face. Eventually my karate robots let go of me and head toward Superboy, apparently in a desperate change of command.

I am relieved at the break I get from all this pummeling. I stay quiet and nurse my throbbing balls while watching in slo-mo Superboy battle all these robots. He is like fluid, ever aware of the motion around him and finding the minimal amount of effort needed to slip by. He also clearly understands robots, and knows after a few seconds of observation where the weak spot is. “So is that your Tai Chi?”, I ask in awe. “You tell me, I thought Tai Chi was for old people”, he retorts with his trademark smirk. His particularly crowning moment was somersaulting off the head of the final karate robot after pulling out wires from its navel. I have never seen anything so graceful, him sailing in the air with elegance and determination and again his bulge in full display. I spied him starting to look at me. I could see the corners of his mouth turn up to form a grin. And then I felt something familiar. With a wave of panic I turned on super-slo-mo. This time I could see it.

Superboy frozen in the air. A flash of light. A steel ball appears, races fast, crashes into Superboy’s danglers. When the cannon robot nailed me, I remember feeling the dull kthunk of a direct impact. But this ball seems to have aimed too low because after crashing into Superboy’s balls, the steel ball sails straight through his legs. Good thing Superboy wears such a loose bulge. A direct hit would have spelled doom. I could see Superboy’s bits flailing about in response to the grazing impact. The wave of tension spreads from between his legs. His muscles seize. His grin starts to slowly transform to a grimace. I need to rescue him.

I zip into the air, scoop him up, and fly him to the opposite side of the arena to buy us time. He wails and shrivels up on the floor, clutching his manhood. “They’re coming. Get back on your feet or we are both toast. You have five seconds.” I turn around to shield him and face the oncoming robots. I see the cannon robot approaching me and brace myself. KTHLUNK—GGGYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUGGGGGHHHHH Oh dear god it hurts way more than the first time owowowowowo—KTHLUNK—YYYYYOOOOWWWWWWWWWGGGHHHHHRRRRR I clench my teeth and tense every muscle in my body. KTHLUNK-URRRRRRRRGGH I clench my fists by my chest to fight the urge to cradle my aching nuts and collapse on the floor. KTHLUNK-GGGGGGHHHHHHH I have to keep this robot distracted can’t hit Superboy. KTHLUNK-GGYYRRRGGHHH Superboy yeah he’s up great he’s disabling the—KTHLUNK—AAAHH!—DDDRRRGGHHHGGGHHH disabling the other robots?? gotta stand it endure keep distracting the—KTHLUNK—GYAAAUUGGGGHHHHHHHHRRRRRGGHHHH no way I can do this yes I— KTHLUNK—YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUGGGGGHHHHHHHHH gotta protect gotta protect gotta—KTHLUNKTHLUNKTHLUNK—YYYEEEOOOWWWWUUGGHHHAAAAAUUUUGGHHHHHHH—what three times in a row I can’t even—KTHLUNKTHLUNKTHLUNK—EEEYYYYAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH—this is too much this pain it’s—KTHLUNKTHLUNKTHLUNKTHLUNKTHLUNK...

I’m there again. I can feel their collective pain. Since ancient Kryptonian history, men have been busting each other. Though eras and trends varied, some norms were inviolable. It was considered gentlemanly to dress in a way that accentuates your bulge and leaves it vulnerable, in order to be considerate of other gentlemen who would bust you. Mutual busting was a ritual that allowed even mildly acquainted gentlemen to bond. Different social situations called for different busting protocols. Non-consensual, or non-mutual busting was inconsiderate and taboo. However, in the generations leading up to Krypton’s demise, some villains wore cups and started attacking men without reciprocity. Eventually an army of men formed, which also wore “protection” and eventually stopped the villains. However, feeling the thrill of liberal busting freed from conservative norms proved addictive, and they eventually became the next wave of ballbusting villains. The world was soon engulfed in a panicked busting frenzy. Norms slowly broke down, and gentlemen started to bust indiscriminately. Hysterical busting mobs roamed about. That’s when the first global kryptonquake hit. Mysteriously, all men felt an aching rumble in their balls. The quakes returned, getting stronger, and causing more and more damage. I can feel it in my balls, too, now, the agony of billions of men consumed by the fire of an exploding planet, and the fire of their own tortured orbs.

...spark pop flash hiss... what is ugghhh is that? Superboy! Standing triumphantly on the malfunctioning wreck that was the cannon robot. Oh what a relief! I look around at the robot corpses littered about, at the heap of around one hundred metal balls all dented with the imprint of my own balls, at Lex who clearly blew a massive load. “You may have won this round, but my new army of robots are going to destroy your balls!” And with an evil cackle he hops into an escape pod and vanishes. Superboy hops off and walks to me. “Aren‘t you glad I saved you?”, he says with that smirk again. “You? I was the one who saved you. Besides—“ and I say this with a smirk of my own and a backhand to his balls “I wish you had taken out the cannon robot first.” He screams and laughs as he doubles over a bit. “But you were having such a good time, I didn’t want to interrupt.” His cheeky comment causes my blood to boil and just as I think about slapping that grin off his face, I notice he is looking at the massive erection that is straining my tight lycra suit. I’ve honestly never seen it so thick and meaty.

“Shall we go home, sidekick?” He nods, wraps his arms around my back and his legs around mine. Our balls are rubbing against each other, and our hard cocks are throbbing through our lycra side by-side. We fly off into the sky. Once in the air he suddenly grabs our balls and starts rolling all four of them around. I let out a groan and wobble in the air a bit. And there is his goddamn smirk, his smug, know-it-all, condescending... and charming smirk. He continues to massage us both, applying gentle pressure which combines the relief of a gentle hand with the bittersweet ache of our battered gonads. All it took for him was to hold my throbbing cock for just a moment before I came all over my supersuit. I returned the favor. We embrace and float for a moment, staring off into the sky around us.

We arrive home and sprawl on the couch, each gently holding his balls in hand. “You know, your balls are still too weak. That cannon robot would have made purée out of your plums. I need to toughen them up if you want to fight alongside me. I can’t always come to your rescue when a villain finds your bright red bulge an easy target. First thing tomorrow, we are going to spar, and your balls are going to suffer.” I realize Superboy is looking at my rising boner as I say this. “Well I need to toughen your balls too, Mr. Super.” “Hah! Right. That’s impossible. You’re human, you can’t make a dent in the Man of Steel.” He stifles a laugh and looks me straight in the eye with a peculiarly devilish smirk. And I notice it’s his turn to show off some blue steel. He takes off one of his glossy red boots, and pours out shiny red orbs into his hand. “Guess what these are.” “Your childhood marble collection?” “You wish. No, this is neopyrrhium. When I was taking down those robots, I also nabbed their neopyrrhium cores. I can use these to build far better robots than Lex’s pathetic jerk-offs. If his robots brought you down, mine are going to make you cry like a Superbaby.” My jaw drops, the blood drains from my face, and all I can say is a stuttering mess because I keep recalling today’s painful events. The prospect of even worse pain terrifies me. I tremble a little. My balls cringe. I hold them for comfort and reassurance. Is this what men are supposed to go through? This feeling of being so vulnerable? Being exposed to constant, world-ending pain? How can you be strong when your masculinity makes you weak? And why am I more aroused by all this pain than anything else? Am I gay? I look Superboy in the eyes; at his bright red, bulging briefs; at his throbbing cock, which he started to stroke; at his devilish, punk-ass smirk. I lean into him and say “Look, you can build all the robots you want, but before you do, you need to finally fix that goddamn coffee machine” while backhanding him hard in the nuts. He bursts out laughing, groaning, crying, and coughing all at once. Our eyes find each others’, our hands find each others’ stiffies, and we get to work all over again.

[gay-for-tord]

Sewed Together: Chapter 5

Taglist and links to the other chapters will be added in a reblog, so I can make sure this shows up in the tags. Please let me know if you want to be added to the taglist.  ____________________________________

Arriving at the table, Jack was surprised. He had figured that they would be like his parents and make something simple, like Instant Noodles. The food laid out on the table was a feast! There was roasted chicken, baked potatoes, rice, sweet rolls, and cornbread. But Jack was hesitant to eat the food in front of him. Sure it looked delicious, but was it safe? How did he know they weren't planning on poisoning him?

"Go on," His Other Father insisted. "Anti's food is the best!" He makes a show of eating some of the chicken and Anti rolls his eyes.

Jack chuckles a bit and relaxed. Both of them were eating the food and seemed to be fine. Or at least, neither of them had dropped dead yet. He reached forward to serve himself a bit of each.

"It is good," Jack admitted after taking a bite of the chicken. "Thank you for feeding me."

Anti beamed. "It's no problem! You're our child after all, and we've been waiting for you for a long time. "

"For me?"

His Other Father nodded. "Yep. It wasn't the same without you bud."

"But we knew you'd arrive someday," Anti's grin grew wider. "And now we can be a proper family. More chicken?"

"No thank you." Jack wiped his mouth with his napkin. "Can I have something to drink?"

"Of course!"

Anti snapped his fingers and jugs came flying from the kitchen. Paying close attention, Jack noticed that the jugs weren't floating like he first thought they were. They were actually being held up by red strings.

How strange, He thought. But also really cool.

"Which one would you like to drink? As you can see, we have orange juice, apple juice, sweet tea, chocolate milk, and strawberry milk."

"Strawberry milk please."

With a flick of his wrist, Anti made the strings lift the strawberry milk jug to pour it into Jack's cup.

"Thank you." Jack took a sip of his drink and was pleasantly surprised that it tasted completely like strawberries. Normally things like chocolate milk and strawberry milk still faintly tasted like milk.

"Our personal favorite is apple juice," Anti said. Other Chase nodded.

"Yep!"

"Apple juice is pretty good," Jack agreed. "But strawberry milk is my favorite."

"Because you like strawberries?"

"Uh-huh."

"Noted," Anti mumbled to himself. He returned his attention back onto his food and continued eating. "Pass me another sweet roll, dear."

Other Chase did as he was told. Though for a moment, it had seemed as if he didn't want to touch Anti. Jack shrugged it off. He was probably just imagining things. But speaking of Anti, he had told Jack that they were his other parents. But if his Other Father looked exactly like his dad, why didn't Anti look exactly like his mom?

"Hey Anti," Jack said carefully. "If you guys are my other parents, why don't you look like my mom?"

"Hmmm, that's a good question," Anti went silent and stared at the wall, thinking. "I suppose I don't look like her because your other parents are supposed to make you happy. And she doesn't make you very happy, does she." Anti's last sentence didn't at all sound like a question. It was a statement.

"No," Jack quietly agreed. "She's always busy on her computer, and she likes to start fights with my dad. I never knew I had other parents." He changed the subject. Talking about his mom that way had always made him feel uncomfortable. Although it was true, it still felt wrong.

"Of course you do. Everyone has other parents." Anti's green button eyes were gleaming. Other Chase shifted in his seat, but Jack didn't notice.

"Really?"

"Uh-huh! And as soon as you're done eating, why don't we go outside and play a game?" Anti excitedly taps his fingers on the table. "It'll be lots of fun."

"What kind of game?"

"An exploring game. We all go outside and explore the grounds, see who finds the most things."

Anti was giving Jack an excited look. He made Jack feel bad for what he was going to say next.

"I'd love to play but I.... I need to get back to my other parents."

"But we're your other parents."

Jack gave Anti a small smile. "I meant my other other parents. You know, set number one?"

"Ah, of course." Anti slouched in his seat a bit, disappointment clear across his face. "But do you have to go so soon? I mean, you just got here and we've been waiting for you for such a long time..."

"Yeah, don't you want to stay a little longer?" Other Chase asked. "They won't know you're gone. You could explore the house, visit our neighbors, look at your room?"

Guilt ate away at Jack. On one hand, he didn't want his parents to know he was gone and freak out and get mad at him. But on the other hand, this place was really cool. And the sad and disappointed looks Anti and his Other Father were giving him made him feel worse.

"Ok," Jack caved. "I'll stay here a little longer."

Anti's face brightened up, and he stood up from his seat. "Great! You go on and head up to your room, play with your toys. Your father and I will clean up the table and wash the dishes."

Jack stood up, and his plate was whisked away. Giving his other parents one last look, he headed upstairs to where his room should be. Stepping into his room, Jack wasn't prepared. His room here was so much different than his first room! The paint on the walls were pink and green stripes, which wasn't as interesting as the rest of the room. The most interesting thing about his room was his toys were alive.

Though more than half of the toys in his room were things he couldn't recall ever owning, they were still an amazing sight. Small wind-up angels and airplanes flew threw the air, stuffed animals wandered around the room, occasionally pausing to wave at him, and many other things.

Jack sat down on his bed. While his room here was amazing, he didn't think he'd like to sleep in there. With all the toys moving around and doing whatever they pleased, he wouldn't be surprised if they woke him up in the middle of the night. Nor would he surprised at waking up to see toys too close for comfort. That would certainly give him a heart attack.

"Do you like it?"

"Hm?" Jack turned to see Anti and his other father standing in the doorway, holding hands.

"Do you like your room?" Anti repeated. "I put a lot of work into it."

"Oh, uh, yeah I like it. It's really cool."

"How about we play that game I mentioned during dinner?"

Jack shook his head. "I'm sorry, I can't. I have to get back to my other home before parents one see that I'm missing." Anti frowned and once again guilt ate at Jack. "I'll come back tomorrow though! Then we can play the exploring game!" He scratched at the rash on his hand. He had forgotten about how itchy it.

Anti still didn't look very happy, but his expression did brighten up a little.

"Alright then, tomorrow it is." He gave Jack a smile. "How about we take care of that rash of yours and send you off?"

"With what stuff? My dad didn't know how to get rid of it."

"There's a doctor living above us, remember?"

"Dr. Schneeplestein's here too?" Jack stared at Anti in confusion. How was he here as well?

"Yes and no. He's the Other Dr. Schneeplestein. And I'm sure that he has something lying around to get rid of your rash." Anti held out his hand. "We'll walk you upstairs."

"Ok."

Jack took Anti's hand and allowed him to lead him downstairs and outside. Outside of the house, nearly everything was the same, except for two things. The moon was full and there were more stars in the sky. Jack didn't get much time to stare up at them because he was soon in front of the doctor's house.

Anti knocked on the door and called out, "Doctor, we have a guest in need of your assistance!"

The door opened and the Other Dr. Schneeplestein ushered them in. Jack was pulled aside and was frantically inspected.

"If you look at his right hand, you'll find what needs tending to," Anti said in amusement.

"Oh! You have a rash. Don't worry, I can get rid of it!"

Other Dr. Schneeplestein let go of Jack and disappeared out of sight. Now that he wasn't be checked over and shook, Jack was able to look around the room. The doctor had many shelves in the room, all filled with medical stuff. Some shelves were filled with tools and some were filled with glass containers.

Other Dr. Schneeplestein returned two minutes later from wherever he had gone with a small container of some kind of paste.

He opened the container and said to Jack, "Give me your hand."

Jack held his hand out and watched as the other doctor rubbed some of the paste onto his hand.

"Your rash should be gone by morning." Other Dr. Schneeplestein closed the container and reached into his coat pocket to pull out a lollipop. "Here, for being a good patient." "Oh, uh, thank you. For both healing my rash and giving me a lollipop." Jack stuck the lollipop into his pocket.

"Doc, I need to talk to you for a sec." Anti pulled Other Dr. Schneeplestein farther into the room, so Jack couldn't hear their conversation.

"How does your rash feel?" Other Chase asked.

"Not as itchy."

Jack stared at Other Dr. Schneeplestein, taking in his appearance. He looked nearly identical to the Dr. Schneeplestein that lived in Jack's world. The only things different were Other Dr. Schneeplestein's partially green hair and his blue buttons. He couldn't say whether or not their personalities were the same though, since he's only talked to Dr. Schneeplestein in his world only once.

"Alright, goodbye doc." Anti took hold of Jack's other hand and walked him out the door.

"Bye Doctor!" Jack shouted. "And thank you!"

Anti flashed him a grin as he led them downstairs.

"Are you sure you don't want to stay longer?" He asked Jack as they stepped inside.

Jack shook his head. "Sorry..."

Anti gave him a tight smile. "That's alright."

They followed him to the small door.

"Hug me goodbye," Anti said as he opened his arms.

Jack did as he was told and Anti squeezed him.

"We'll be counting the minutes until you come back."

Jack gave him a small smile and pulled away. He quickly hugged his other father before opening the door and crawling through.

"Goodbye! See you tomorrow!" Anti called out.

"Bye!"

Soon Jack was pushing through the door and he was back in his own home. He didn't hear his parents frantically looking for him, so it was safe to say that they were still asleep. With that in mind, Jack quietly walked back upstairs and to his room. There he fell into a dreamless sleep.

_________________________________________

I want to promise I'll update more, but I get distracted so easily and procrastinate so hard.

Also, I know it's pretty stereotypical to portray Stacy as a bad person since no one technically really knows anything about her, but now my reasoning for it has been revealed! I did it so I had an excuse to have Anti as the Other Mother.

[yourmajestythequeenn]

Confessions: Chapter 13

Chapter 13 – Truth be Told

Warnings: Slow Burn

Pairings: Rose Weasley x Scorpius Malfoy, Albus Potter x OC

~*~

My heartbeat coincides with my footsteps on the frigid stone floor.

Thud, thud, thud, thud.

My mind races as I think of all the possible punishments McGonagall could conjure up for us.

Thud, thud, thud, thud.

Scrubbing the Great Hall’s floor with toothbrushes and bleach.

Or cleaning the Owlery.

Or sorting past student’s files.

Or reading Hogwarts, A History aloud.

Thud, thud, thud, thud.

A soft hooting of an owl causes me to glance upward, a tawny owl lands on a sconce above my head. A thick letter clutched in its beak. I reach for the parchment and the owl loosens its grip, letting it fall into my hand. I tuck the letter into the pocket of my filthy Quidditch robes and continue on. The owl gives one last hoot and glides down the opposite hall.

As I near the stone gargoyle it comes to life and commands, "Password."

I moisten my lips with the tip of my tongue before speaking. "Dragon Heartstring."

The gargoyle nods sharply, letting me pass. The huge oak door creaks open as if it was expecting me. When I step into the empty cavernous room it slams behind me, causing me to start.

I circle around the cavernous office, admiring the artifacts McGonagall had collected over the eons.

I was gaze at the portrait of Dumbledore, imagining what it would have been like to meet him, the real him. Not just a talking painting.

"Rose Nymphadora Weasley," a sly voice cackles from above my head. I look up, expecting Peeves to come flying out of nowhere and scare my robes off. But there is nothing.

"Peeves!" I shout. "I’m not in the mood!"

"Still as feisty as ever, I see," the voice drawls on without leading me to its source.

"I said, I’m not in the mood for your games! Come out and fight like a…like a-." I trail off puzzled.

"My dear, I’m sure you are bright enough to realize a hat, even a magical one such as myself, cannot fight." The voice chuckles, amused.

My eyes finally rest on a shelf very high on the wall where the sorting hat rests, faded and tattered, but still annoying as ever. I roll my eyes dramatically.

"Up to no good again?" the hat speaks. "You are most definitely a trouble maker, and a good one at that. I should have placed you in Slytherin, the way I had originally intended."

"I belong in Gryffindor," I growl though clenched teeth. "Where all Weasleys belong."

"I disagree, young one." He advises wisely. "Anyone can be placed anywhere. I disregard family traditions. What’s in your heart is what really matters."

"Whatever," I groan. I turn away from the talking accessory, rolling my eyes at the daft idea of myself in Slytherin.

"Merrow!" A cry of pain erupts at my feet. A small tiger striped cat scrambles away from my clumsy feet, which have trodden on its tail.

Bloody cat should learn to stay away from people’s feet.

"Well usually people actually look where they are going Miss Weasley." McGonagall’s annoyed voice startles me.

"McGonagall!" I cry, clutching my chest. Honestly, it’s like people want me to have a heart attack!

"Miss Weasley," McGonagall continues. "There is another reason I brought you up here, it’s something we need to discuss alone." My heart flutters nervously. "As you know we regularly sensor the mail going in and out of Hogwarts, ever since the war that is, and this one caught my eye and I know you have it with you, you need to read it now."

She gestures to my robe pocket. I slowly take out the creamy envelope sealed in red wax with the Weasley family crest. I break the seal and unfold the thick parchment. A neat but curly handwriting greets me, handwriting I would know anywhere. My mum’s.

Rose,

I’m sorry I haven’t been writing, but things at home are chaotic. You’ve been at school a month and haven’t written either, but I assume things have been busy for you up there as well. I hope things are going well for you. Are you keeping up in your studies? How’s Quidditch? Please don’t break your record of detentions again. At least try and be civil with the Malfoy boy. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but your Father and I have separated…

This takes me completely by surprise. Yes, my parents fight pretty much constantly, but over stupid little things, and they always made up. Always. Tears sting my eyes, but I force them not to fall.

Rose, I know this is a shock to you please stay calm and at least let me explain. Your father and I have not been on the best terms for a while now. While working at the ministry with your Uncle Harry I have developed a friendship with some people who were not on the winning side of the war. I have come to know them as changed and genuine people. I believe that Harry feels the same, although, your father is very stubborn and refuses to believe that without the influence of Voldemort and the Death Eaters, that people can change. I have especially grown fond of Mr. Malfoy, which is where your father drew a very uncrossable line in our marriage. I love and adore you, and even though I am not sure where your father and I are at in our relationship, we both love and adore you. Please, don’t be angry. If you need to talk or write, I am at the Burrow with your grandparents until your father gets some perspective. Remember dear, family heritage doesn’t define who you are. Just because your father loathes the Malfoys doesn’t mean you have to as well.

As always,

Mum

By this time tears are streaming down my cheeks. The letter drops from my shaking hands. I hang my head in despair and little droplets splash on my filthy Quidditch pants.

"My dear…" McGonagall starts, she looks worried. "I know your parents, they’ll come around."

Before I can say anything back the door is pushed open from behind me.

"Ah, good you’re all here," McGonagall stands, welcoming the newcomers. "Now sit," she commands.

"Rosie?" I hear Al’s voice question from behind me. I crane my neck to look at him. His eyes widen slightly when my puffy, tear-stained face comes into view.

"Tell you later," I whisper, wiping my face with the back of my hand. I turn back to McGonagall who looks very stern. I feel Al’s hands rest on each of my shoulders.

"Well I assume you all know why you’re here." McGonagall purses her thin lips.

"No! I most certainly do not!" my best friend shrieks.

No, not Al. He doesn’t have the vocal ability to shriek like someone is cutting off his hands with a butter knife.

"Miss Weasley, you were involved, therefore you will be punished just like everyone else," McGonagall enforces.

Dom makes a harrumphing sound as she sinks into her chair.

McGonagall goes on to say how irresponsible, inconsiderate, and insensitive teenagers we are and how she is very disappointed in us and our parents will be notified. Blah, blah, blah.

All I want to do is crawl back to my dorm and drown myself in misery.

I cannot believe how much of a git my father is, I love him, but I cannot believe…

I slump in my chair and try to black out McGonagall’s ranting. Everyone else is doing the same thing or amusing themselves. Dom is painting her toenails with genuine unicorn glitter. Trevor is snoring softly in his chair. Lysander opened a pack of caldron cakes and is dropping crumbs all over the ancient carpet, swatting Lorcan’s hungry hand every so often. Al begins to play with my hair, twisting it into knots. And I end up chewing on the inside of my cheek.

"Are you insolent children even listening to me?" McGonagall growls.

At once everyone becomes alert, trembling under her wrath. Lysander even starts choking on his snack, sending bits of cake flying.

"Now everyone meet in the Great Hall tomorrow for detention. Out!" McGonagall hisses. Not needing to be told twice, we high tail it out of there.

As soon as I step off the last step, I’m knocked to the ground by a torrent of pink taffeta "Oooofff." The lovely sound escapes my mouth as I hit the cold stone.

"Oh Merlin, Rose! Are you alright? We saw James fall, then you faint! Then we heard from Trevor that you guys were going to be chewed out by McGonagall. Me and Vinnie have been waiting forever out here! What did she say? Are you in trouble? Is she going to send you to Azkaban?" Juliet blurts out in one breath.

"Whoa, calm down Jules, no one is going to Azkaban," I say, sliding out from under her.

Lavinia comes forward and offers me her hand, a sorrowful look on her fragile face.

"Rosie…" Al speaks earnestly. I’d forgotten he was still here. "We have to get back to the common room."

"Fine," I groan, heaving myself off the floor. "Let’s go." But Al has frozen, his gaze peers over my shoulder. I look over. He and Juliet have locked eyes, it’s as if they are staring into each other’s souls. "Al." I snap my fingers in front of his paralyzed form.

"Huh?" He snaps out of his hypnotism.

I make an animalistic grunt and grab his hand, dragging him down the corridor.

*~*

A/N: Thank you so much for reading, I truly appreciate it! I read all comments and feedback is encouraged! 

See you next chapter, 

Em

[detectivesplotslies]

People & Plans

Description: They’ve seen the truth of the outside world, and Maki’s gathered them together in the dining hall. But someone’s not coming, and there’s no changing that, but Tsumugi can’t let it go.

Word Count: 2286 

Read it here on AO3

Note: This is a pretty dark scene, just a what-if I had rattling around, Tsumugi’s POV, major character death, Chapter 5 for the game canon, divergent for this scene specifically. But I haven’t written anything in ages so I’m proud to have finished it! ---

When did plans and people start falling apart, in different directions so quickly ?

The three of them stood in the dining hall, waiting for Maki to return. So few of them, and without the louder participants, the silence was oppressive. No one tried to break it. Each of them was exhausted, bags under their eyes, and there was nothing left to say. Himiko’s hat was askew. Even Kiibo’s eyes seemed dimmer.

Tsumugi’s downcast gaze flickered up to his face briefly, and then to Himiko’s. Her own hands fidgeted with each other. It had been a little while after the morning announcement when Maki had come to get them all, escorting them here one at a time. When they arrived at the dining hall, she noticed it was gone. Clearly, Maki had found it, as planned, though hadn’t mentioned it yet. The others seemed to think they were here to end things, once and for all. Tsumugi supposed they were right, in a sense. Things were going to be set right again.

Maki was taking a while to come back. Perhaps she was talking to him before they came over. They were closer to each other than the rest of them.

After all, they were the sidekicks. They needed to make up, probably, after the sour note things left off on. Even the hopeless might be heartwarming ?

However, when the door to the dining hall swung open, and they looked up only the long haired assassin strode in. Her shoulders were tense, her fists balled up, and jaw set. She glared around the measly congregation.

“I gathered you all here because I found something.”

“...”

“This morning when I-”

“W-wait, hold on,” Tsumugi stammered, the others just listening in their heavy silence still, seeming to not even notice the absence. She looked around as though to punctuate her next question, trying to go back to disinterest in her voice that should be there, but something anxious creeps into it. “Weren’t you getting Shuichi?” “He’s not coming.” There’s an edge to Maki’s voice, and her eyes narrowed on the stammering cosplayer. “But, before… we talk about that, I found a flashback light here in the dining hall. I wanted to gather everyone to see it, but that’s no longer possible. So we have some decisions to make.” “Not coming? But if it’s a flashback light he has to be here, it only works once-” “Tsumugi-”

“I have to agree with Tsumugi, we can’t be making decisions without everyone that we can reach. It’s not logical.” “Did you tell him why? I can go try if-” “Tsumugi, he’s not coming. He can’t .” There’s some finality to that. A touch of strain, something held back. That didn’t sound like a simple refusal. Even the others looked up at her questioningly.

“Why not?” Himiko was the first to ask. Maki’s sharp glare fell to her shoes. The pause stretched between them, and she opened her right fist and smoothed out a folded paper in it. A note.

“I guess we’ll do this first then...” She was very calm about it all. Collected. That would be reassuring to most people.

Tsumugi knew better. She was not calm. She was in character. In the face of death an assassin is professional, calm. In the face of death…

“No that’s wrong,” Tsumugi blurted out, not even considering the irony. Without waiting for confirmation, she started out the door into the hallway, striding quickly towards the dorms, lethargy gone in a burst. Maki didn’t move. Someone called out behind her, maybe Kiibo. No one made a move to stop her.

She stepped out of the school, only briefly wary for Exisals. Kokichi did still have that remote. But the courtyard was deserted, so cosplayer made her way to the dorms and towards Shuichi’s door, which was ajar. It didn’t look forced, perhaps he hadn’t locked it at all, and Maki had just tried the knob and walked in. So much for a closed room case...

“Shuichi..?” She called out, as she stepped in. She didn’t knock, but calling out just seemed right. No one walks up expecting to find this, even when they’ve been told. It’s plain natural to disbelieve it, right?

She stared into the detective’s dorm room, adjusting her glasses. Had she discovered any bodies herself yet? She supposed the magic show counts. After a moment of blank faced of scrutiny, she remembered she should react. Her hand went to her mouth for a gasp. It was an empty gesture, but so many of hers were now.

He was there, and it almost felt like she was watching someone else find him. She could almost hear the music cue. Her stomach dropped. It was strange, almost like a conditioned response.

Shuichi was on the bed, curled up on his side. If you weren’t looking for it, he might be asleep. His rumpled clothes were the same uniform as when she last saw him, torn and marked from their trip through the tunnel, but intact. His hair was a disheveled bedhead mess. But his eyes were half-open, out of focus. If he hadn’t been facing the doorway it’d have been a true surprise. A small bottle was held in a rigid grip of his left hand. There was no sign of a struggle, no blood, no scratches. Serene. Everything about it was wrong for where they were. But it was too soon. This shouldn’t have happened, that’s what Kaito had been for. Ah wait …

And something none of them had seen in awhile, his hat, was placed very tidily and deliberately on the bedside table, next to one more little bottle.

She should wait for the others. She can’t disturb the crime scene. She needs them to investigate. She… She wonders if they’ll even come ?

Tsumugi glanced back out into the quiet dorms. Maki had pulled out a note. Did Shuichi leave it…? What did it say? An apology? An explanation? A proper dying message may be too much to hope for, even if he was a detective. It might have been prudent to stick around for it… but she'd come too far to just turn back.

Had anyone even seen him since they came back from the tunnel? In her moments out of her own room the night previous, Tsumugi had seen no one, but knew of Maki and Kokichi’s movements. All eyes had been on the hangar, hers included. And of course no one had seen plain old her. As for Kiibo and Himiko... The dorms were just a silent wasteland for the despairing.

The girl paused a moment, took a breath and braced herself as she crossed the threshold into the room. The detective was gone. Someone needed to investigate. Even if the conclusions were obvious, surely there was something to this case. Something to give him the send off he deserved. There had to be, they were so close.

She crossed the room, stepping carefully over some discarded laundry, and his shoes at the side of the bed, haphazardly unlaced. Carefully, Tsumugi pulled back her long hair, tucking it behind her shoulder so it didn’t fall on the body and leaned over to see the bottle in Shuichi’s hand. The poison. The murder weapon.

The bottle itself was mostly empty, a few stray drops clung to the lip of it. Some of the label showed through his pale fingers. It was the sort that had a built in anesthetic put you to sleep, and then minutes later stopped your heart. She remembered it from a game she played once. In the end everyone had avoided the.poison in that, but not here, huh . The cap wasn’t anywhere nearby. Under the bed? It had to be from Shuichi’s lab, but… That couldn’t be right…

Shuichi disliked his lab, and didn’t spend time there. She really doubted he left his room and went all the the way to the 4th floor for this. Someone would have noticed. Wouldn’t they?

A moment came to mind from when they first went there. Kokichi running out of the lab with little bottles in his arms laughing. Maybe that’s where they came from. Maybe rather early for a Chekhov gun but it could work , but if she needed convincing the others definitely wouldn't take it for granted if played that way.

Had Shuichi ever caught up with him? Had he returned them? Had someone else returned them to Shuichi? She would have to check but there was likely no proof. And of course he could just have it. Reasons weren't always as tidy as a plot made them.

She moved over to the bedside table, and idly picked up his hat while looking around. Her hands found the detailing at the back, the three white stripes, fingers running over the seams thoughtfully as she searched. Comforting, familiar. Like an old friend. A friend who was gone.

The unopened bottle next to it she could read the label of, and unlike the one clenched in the cold hand it was an antidote. The antidote paired to the poison he took? Murder was looking less promising, but it could be a setup! All someone had to do was poison him in his sleep, forge a note and create a crime scene. A certain someone could even lockpick his way in, if someone argued Shuichi wouldn’t recklessly leave his door unlocked. They’d just leave it open to make it less suspicious on the way out. If the antidote was in plain sight surely the trial would lead them to him having chosen not to have it and then- The trial.

Shuichi was always the one leading the charge towards the trial. For the sake of their friends. For the fallen. But since Gonta… he’d looked to regret that stance. Himiko’s positive energy had washed up since Kokichi’s declaration. Sure, she could rely on Kiibo’s inner voice to bring up their duty but he was outnumbered. And she couldn’t sway the group. She always was the one to fall to plain peer pressure. ...would they even be able to force a trial? Kokichi had the Exisals. Unless he and Kaito came out to see what was happening and he relinquished his control, this was going to come to an impasse.

Was it all over because of one weak detective? His last words from the tunnel played over in her mind.

“...Coward.” Maki had said.

.”..I know. I just… don’t have the strength. I can’t fight back… I can’t do it. …”

Tsumugi’s hands gripped tighter on the bill of the black cap.

Had it been too much? She thought he could handle it, even with the detour the plot was taking. She believed that he was the one who would finish it...

Tsumugi’s drifting thoughts came back to the dorm room. Maki had been in here before her, but how closely had she looked at everything? Had the note been obvious or hidden in a pocket? Surely she had checked the body vitals but…

Had she read the bottles? The one in Shuichi’s hand remained so maybe not. Tsumugi’s fingers twitched on the hat’s brim.

She’d hidden evidence before. No one ever thought to frisk anyone on the way to the trials. Accusations like that happened in the courtroom. She could change some things, remove some things. Make it more interesting. Fix it. She could fix it.

Wasn’t that already what she was trying to do? Her planned fix, her hope for everyone, was in the dining hall with the others, unused. She was up all night working on it, tying it all together. She should have been watching the pieces on the board not the ones to come. Hard to see the board when you’re on it too...

It was too late for that hope, but justice and despair could always have another hurrah.

Kiibo would ask what was right to do, and wouldn’t feel right without following through. He’d been getting closer with Shuichi, as far as she could tell.

Maki who found him, who spoke to him last, who has been watching the hangar since they came back, can’t help but feel some responsibility. Right? Even if the responsibility was completely misplaced.

Himiko who’s only closure to her other friends’ deaths came from this sad detective wouldn’t abandon the truth. She had wanted Tenko to matter, why couldn’t Shuichi?

Kaito would want to fight it, if he was still around by the end of the investigation. A sidekick he never made up with? Think of the guilt if he let it go.

.... and Kokichi with his plan to end the game, wouldn’t stand by and let something like this force him into silence. That might not help her, but it was something.

Surely… Surely she could find a way to help them find a better ending. It was the least she could do. Because plainly it wouldn’t end like this. Right, right ?

The hat shook in her hand.

She couldn’t let this weakness be the reason it was over. She couldn’t let this vulnerability she made be her slipshod ending. She couldn’t leave it like this. So close.

Tsumugi reached for the antidote, and opened her jacket looking for a nice safe pocket to tuck it in.

“Wait Himiko-” “I said let go of me-!”

Tsumugi’s eyes shot up, peering over the rim of her glasses at the blurry figures bursting into the room, red-faced, stopping and staring at her, standing over the body and tucking the tiny bottle into her pocket and holding Shuichi’s hat in the other. Ding dong, bing bong . “A body has been discovered!”

Pulled between people and plans, When did I begin falling apart ?

[imagine-mix-fandoms]

Second Chance At Life

Excuse the title and SPOILER for those who haven’t watch the final episode. For @basic-witchs-blog inspired by @kxllerbeforeyou ‘s post - https://kxllerbeforeyou.tumblr.com/post/180117647022/can-i-just-say-that

Michael walked towards the street, confused and lost. No one was around and he could feel no one would ever be around him. Not after what just happened.

Michael didn’t see the incoming black vehicle that was about to hit him. He hit the windshield hard, cracking it before rolling to the side of the road. He wanted to ask for help, but the pain kept him from doing so.

It hurted Michael when the car backed up and hit him. He began to feel numb after the third hit. The car sped away, leaving him there.

Constance walked out to see what was happening and she saw Michael on the side of the road. She cradled him in her lap.

Michael begged her to take him back to the house. “I’ll be with you forever”, he said, tears rolling down his cheeks.

“Go to hell”, was the only response he got from Constance before she left him there to die.

Michael waited for someone to help him, but the time was painfully slow and no one was around. He couldn’t call for help and he could feel the darkness taking over.

“He-Help...”, he wanted to yell, but his eyes felt heavy.

As though someone heard him, Michael saw a blond woman. She was beautiful, wearing a beautiful dress and she was approaching him.

“He-Help...”, he said, trying to reach out to her.

Elizabeth crouched down to the young man, mangled in front of her. She saw what just happened. It’s probably against what she had done in the past - this is not a child, but she felt as if there was a boy in there, trapped in this man’s body.

Elizabeth rolled her sleeve up and used her pointy, diamond encrusted nail to slice her wrist. She brought her wrist to the young man in front of her.

“Drink it, it’ll make you feel better”, said Elizabeth.

Desperate, Michael swallowed every last drop of blood that she had offered. He felt drowsy still and finally, gave up and let the darkness consumed him.

**HOTEL CORTEZ**

James was not surprised to see a young blond man with his wife. He was surprised to see how…, different this one looked.

“Where did you pick this one up?”, he asked Elizabeth.

“In front of the Montgomery House”, said Elizabeth as she stored away her jewelleries.

James examined the boy and smirked. “Evil oozes out of this one”, he said.

“I know…, but, he’s a child, James”, said Elizabeth.

“A child..., trapped in this body of this..., man”, said James.

“I’m sure we can find something for him here”, said Elizabeth.

A few hours later, Michael woke up. He frowned. This was not his room. He rose and felt the sheets. It was smooth and the bed was bigger. He looked around to see all the toys and gadgets that any child ever dreamt of having.

He looked down to see he’s no longer dressed in his usual clothes. He’s now wearing a white buttoned up shirt, black jacket, a pair of black pants and shoes. He stepped on the floor, expecting pain from the run over, but he didn’t feel any.

Michael spotted a mirror and went to it. He was surprised to see no bruises, cuts or anything! He was fine. He walked out of the door and the living room was more fancier than the ones in Constance’s house.

Suddenly, the door opened and a little boy entered. He had light blond hair and was dressed similarly to Michael.

“Mommy is looking for you”, he said.

Michael followed him, wearily towards the elevator. The boy pushed the penthouse button and they went up.

Michael turned to the boy. “My name is Michael. Where are we?”, he asked.

“I’m Holden and we’re home”, said Holden.

The door opened and Holden told Michael to knock first before going in. He was curious as to why Holden was not coming.

“I promise Wren I’d play with her. Maybe we can play later in the game room. Bye!”, Holden waved as the elevator door closed.

Michael knocked on the door and it opened to reveal the beautiful woman he saw on the streets earlier. She was sitting at her large couch, one hand holding a cigarette and the other, a glass of drink.

“Sit, my child. I’m sure you have a lot of questions”, said the woman.

Michael sat down, facing her. “Who are you? Why am I here? Why did you save me?”, he asked.

“My name is Elizabeth, but you can call me mother if you like. I saw that car ran you over. I can’t just leave you there like that…, not after that woman left you there to die”, said Elizabeth.

“I’m a monster. I deserve to die”, he said, tears rolling down his cheeks.

“We are all monsters, my boy. Everyone has one in them. There’s no need to be ashamed of it”, a man appeared to Michael’s left. He was wearing a white striped shirt, a black vest and a black pair of pants.

“James Patrick March, the owner of this fine establishment. Elizabeth here is my wife, although she’d probably deny it”, said James.

“What do you want from me?”, asked Michael.

“To keep you safe from those horrid people out there, my dear. We will take care of you, don’t you worry about that”, said Elizabeth.

She approached Michael. Elizabeth gently combed his beautiful blond hair and kissed his forehead. Michael closed his eyes, feeling the warmth and love from Elizabeth.

“He’s such a sweet boy”, said Elizabeth, caressing his cheeks and pulling him into her arms.

“Now, now, you’re going to spoil our boy and I don’t want that. He needs to be a man and he must learn what it takes to be a man”, said James.

Elizabeth rolled her eyes at James. “He has all the time in the world. He’ll have eternity with us, James”, she said.

Turning to Michael, she smiled. “You can go and play, my dear. Holden and the others should be downstairs”, said Elizabeth.

Michael got up and was about to leave when he turned around. “Can I call you mom and dad?”, he asked.

“Of course, Michael. It would mean the world to us”, said Elizabeth.

“Run along now, son. Your mother and I would like to discuss your plan for the future”, said James.

Beaming with happiness, Michael ran off to explore his new home and he can’t wait to meet his new family.

[puckyeahhockey]

Stitches (part 2) {A. Matthews}

Requested yes/no

Word Count: 2.5k

Authors Note: idk this isn’t my favorite thing i’ve written so i’m sorry if this is not good 

[part 1]

The car ride with Auston was very peaceful, something you really needed. There was no tension about anything that had just happened. There was almost no sign anything had happened other than your blood stained clothes and the stitches under your eye on your cheek. Most of the car ride to their place was filled with small talk and dancing around to songs on the radio.

“And we are here,” Auston announced pulling up the driveway. “Oh look, there's Mitch.”

“Aw, he looks like a stressed out mom,” you chirped earning a laugh from Auston. Mitch was blocking the walkway to the front door by pacing with his arms crossed. When he noticed you pulling up, a wave of relief blew over his face.

“Hey Mitchy,” Auston jokingly cooed getting out of his car and you doing the same.

“Yeah! Hey Mitchy,” you laughed giving him a quick hug. Maybe if you seems cheerful it would calm everyone’s nerves.

“Holy shit,” he whispered taking in your ruined clothes, stitches, and swollen face. “She still has a smile on her face.”

“I try,” you smiled. Mitch and Auston led you into the house, which was jaw dropping. You slipped off your shoes and set them by the door and continued into the living room.

The living room consisted of Kasperi, William, Morgan, and Frederik. They were all sitting in silence, nobody was talking or anything. When you walked in Mo noticed you first. He jumped up from the couch catching the attention of the rest of them and hurried over to you engulfing you in a hug. Mo always noticed when something was up with you at work and would always check in similarly to how Mitch would so it was no surprise he was a nervous wreck. Kap, Will, and Freddie followed giving you quick hugs and not making much eye contact and seemed very stiff. The whole room became thick with awkwardness as they all spread across the house. It was as if they were forced to greet you.

“Are they okay?” you quietly asked Auston as he returned to the room with a water for you.

“I mean with what happened tonight, no. None of us are,” Mitch chimed in. “They're all really pissed and I don't think know how to handle it.”

“Yeah, yeah, okay,” you replied unsure of how to relieve the stress and relax everyone.

“You need clothes,” Auston remembered and was just about to run down the hallway when the troubled trio returned with various outfits.

“Okay so you can have Mitch’s basketball shorts with a random t-shirt,” Will announced examining the shirt unsure of who it belonged to.

“Mitch’s sweats and one of my oddly large tanks,” Freddie laughed realizing how big his shirt was compared to you.

“And then there's another pair of basketball shorts of Mitch’s and a sweatshirt of mine,” Kappy displayed for you.

“Why are they all my pants?” Mitch whined to the guys.

“You have small waist,” you chimed in a random accent. “We have smaller waists than they do,” you corrected after seeing his expression and hearing the guys begin to cackle.

“You're not a big boy Mitch,” Auston laughed causing you to have giggle along with them.

“You guys are jerks,” Mitch shouted pretending to be mad but ultimately laughing. After laughing for a bit and messing around, you became suddenly exhausted.

“Holy shit! It’s already two,” Mo said in disbelief looking at the clock.

“I can believe it,” whispered Frederik while you yawned.

“Here let me go grab my stuff so you can sleep in my room since we don't really have a guest room,” Auston said.

“Oh no, it’s fine. I can just sleep on the couch,” you retorted gesturing back to the living room and taking the clothes Kappy offered.

“You're the guest you should at least get a bed,” he fought.

“Alright while you guys hash it out, I'm going to bed,” Willy announced and the rest mumbled in agreement allowing the fatigue to settle in. All of the goodnights and sweet dreams were exchanged and the boys trotted off to their rooms.

“I'll go change and then make myself comfy on the couch,” you smiled picking up a pile of clothes that was left that included the sweatshirt. “Bathroom?”

“Down the hall and it's your last room on the right. Don't take that sweatshirt,” Auston informed you as he walked to the hall closet and pulled out a familiar blue colored sweatshirt with a 34 on the back. “This one is better.”

“Yeah?”

“What I have is always better,” he smirked walking off to his room.

You striped your clothes off and slipped on the cleaner ones you were provided. You took a minute to finally look at yourself in the mirror Your face was still slightly swollen but not as bad as it was originally. The stitches looked gnarly against your soft skin, similar to the bruises that had formed. No wonder the guys had a hard time looking at you, you couldn't look into your own eyes without seeing the damage. You folded your clothes and brought them out to where your shoes were and placed them beside them. You then sat on the couch and pulled out your phone.

Hey girl! I won't be able to come into work for about a week, maybe longer, it just depends. Something extremely important came up. Call me if you need me.

Your boss was cool and you were sure she would understand. You had always been a loyal employee so she gave you a lot of leeway. Auston walked into the living room with his arms overflowing with pillows and blankets causing you to giggle because he probably couldn't stand to do two trips.

“Aww, how kind of you to bring me blankets and pillows,” you cooed going to grab some of what he was carrying.

“Haha funny, you're sleeping in my bed still,” Austin sarcastically spoke throwing everything on the couch. The bickering continued just as it did with the other boys.

The morning sun is awful, horrible, extremely unpleasant, and all other similar adjectives. You snuggled your face further into the clump of blankets our we're cuddling. As you repositioned yourself you realized how the couch was way more comfortable than you remembered. You opened your eyes a little wider to reveal you were not where you thought you were.

“That beautiful little shit,” you whispered to yourself trying to wipe the sleepiness from your face avoiding the stitches. You sat for a minute admiring his room. It was clean, too clean for a boy especially a hockey boy. Auston probably had one of the guys clean it for you when you were at the hospital.

After sitting there for a few minutes you decided to make your way downstairs to grab some water. You padded down the hallway an passed through the living room. Auston was sound asleep sprawled out on the couch. You smiled to yourself knowing he sacrificed a good nights sleep for you to feel welcome. So sweet.

You continued into the kitchen only to realize you didn't know how the kitchen was organized if at all. You began to open random cabinets in order to find a glass for some water. After a few minutes of searching, you finally came across a glass. You filled it with water and took a seat at the kitchen island.

“Do they even have breakfast stuff?” you pondered out loud quietly to yourself. You opened the fridge and noticed they had a carton of eggs that were still good. You figured as a small thank you it was the least you could do.

“What are you doing?” Auston said as he shuffled into the kitchen. He had the blanket wrapped over his shoulders, his hair was messy, and he only had a pair of shorts on.

“Good morning! I made some breakfast,” you smiled sliding scrambled eggs on a plate.

“You didn't have to,” Austin grumbled, his voice raspy.

“Oh it’s nothing.”

“You just made scrambled eggs for everyone, are you serious? Thank you,” Auston lazily smiled pulling you into a warm hug. You let your face rest on his bare chest for a moment letting his familiar scent engulf you once again.

“Where's your plate?” he questioned throwing his blanket back on the couch.

“Oh I made myself some toast while I was cooking,” you replied rinsing off your hands.

“That's it? You don't want any eggs?”

“Nah I'm okay. I'm going to go get the guys. I don't know what rooms they're in so I'm going to knock on every door.”

“Okay sounds good,” Auston chucked shoveling a forkful of eggs.

“Oh and by the way, did you put me in your bed?”

“Maybe,” he replied with a smile.

I made my way down where the bedrooms were trying to figure out a game plan. You didn't feel like knocking and yelling in each door.

“Guys! Get up! Breakfast is downstairs,” you yelled loud enough to wake all the boys and the neighbors up unless they were dead.

“Oh my god, why are you yelling?” Will shouted back matching your volume and opening the door and leaned on the doorframe.

“Breakfast?” Mo questioned opening his door.

“Yes, I cooked eggs and it's all served downstairs for you guys,” you replied cheerfully. Freddie, Mitch, and Kappy also opened their doors and looked more groggy than ever. Eventually, you pulled all the guys to the kitchen while the food was still warm.

“There's a bit more in the pan too,” you offered as all of them scarfed down their eggs. They all thanked you multiple times and carried on with what they had to do for the day.

“Hey, Aus?”

“Yeah, what's up?” he asked not looking up from his game.

“I was wondering if you could drive me to my place so I can grab some things and maybe grab my car. I want to get out of your hair asap,” you said to him playing with your fingers. You could imagine how he felt about going back in broad daylight while your whatever could be there.

“You serious?” He said pausing his game. He was obviously taken back at your request I go back so soon.

“Yeah, I just want to move through this as fast as possible.”

“If you want to go right now we can. I want to take Freddie though just in case,” he spoke getting up from the love seat.

“You guys don't have to do this. He's not even home,” you tried to keep the large men in the car.

“Just in case he is.” Freddie popped open the passenger side door and stepped out, Auston following. You sighed and stepped out of the car and walked up to the front door. You pulled out your lanyard that held your various keys and opened the door to a silent house.

“Oh look careful there's glass on the floor,” Auston warned but you sauntered straight threw it just as he once did the night earlier.

“Everyt-”

“Shh,” you cut Auston off and motioned for them to stop moving. “He's sleeping,” you giggle as snores came from your old bedroom.

“Is he a big guy?” Freddie asked listening to him saw logs. You shook your head. Mitchy could easily take this guy so these two have nothing to worry about.

“I want to go grab a jewelry box from in there,” you informed the guys earning crazy looks from them. “It was my grandmother’s and it has a lot of special stuff in there.”

“I'll stay here, you go Matthews,” Freddie said taking a seat on the edge of the couch.

You approached the bedroom door that contained a snoring, probably still, drunk mess. The door was cracked open so you gently pushed it to reveal him in the bed. As you pushed it further and stepped in, you noticed a nude woman in the bed beside him. You turned back to Auston holding back laughter as he peered over to see what you did.

“Her makeup is so fucked up,” you giggled into his chest to muffle it. “I'm not even mad this is too good.” The mystery woman's hair looked like a bird’s nest and her hot pink lipstick was smeared all over her face.

You walked over to the dresser and grabbed the box while Auston stayed at the door. The woman in the bed shifted exposing her breasts causing you to snort and Auston to lose it at the door. Was this really a funny situation? No, more bittersweet but man did it make you laugh. You carried the jewelry box out to where Freddie was and set it on the counter.

“What else do you want?” Aus asked.

“Some clothes maybe?” you asked more to yourself to see if it was even worth it.

“You won't be able to take a whole lot,” Freddie said thinking it through.

“That's where you're wrong sir bodyguard,” you jokingly laughed menacingly as you walked to a nearby close and pulled out a big empty tub. “I'll just load it in my car.”

“Will you be able to get them without him noticing?” Freddie asked still analyzing.

“I'll just wake him,” you stated as if it was nothing.

“No,” they both announced.

“What's he gonna do? He's probably too hungover to think right now and as long as I have this key,” you said pulling it out, “ he's not going to do anything.” Before they could retaliate you darted off to the bedroom and banged your hand on the door a few times. Both of the disasters in the bed shot up and stared at you trying to comprehend the situation.

“Who the fuck are you?” the topless woman yelled, her voice ear piercing.

“I'm the now ex girlfriend coming to get my stuff,” you said to her. “Who the fuck are you?”

“Y/N! Get the fuck out!” your ex yelled from the bed.

“Hey, let her grab her stuff and go. You're lucky she's not pressing charges yet,” Auston warned stepping in the room while Freddie stood alert at the doorway.

“Thanks you guys,” you smiled stepping out of your car.

“Anytime,” Freddie smiled back as he got out of Auston’s car.

“So that was him?” Auston asked in a judgmental tone. You shrugged and laughed it off.

“You want to unload your stuff?” Freddie asked.

You shook your head no. “I'll just leave it in there. I don't want to crowd my stuff in there.”

“Why don't you just move in?” Auston said walking you inside.

“Okay I'm going out in a limb based on what I've learned over the night. You slept on couch so I can have a bed so if I move on someone is going to be out of a bed unless I am sharing or I room with someone,” you explained your observation.

“She's got a point,” Mitch interjected as if he knew the whole conversation. You raised your eyebrow at Aus and laughed.

Your phone buzzed in your jacket pocket. “Give me an address to send whatever shit you left here to. Hope I never have to see you again. xoxo,” you read aloud to everyone who was in the living room.

“We have a post office box thingy to use,” Kappy said looking back at you from the couch.

“I mean since you ARE living here now,” Willy said nudging you and winking.

[catch22inareddress]

Language 2/2

Bucky stood in front of broken Steve with his arms crossed. "What man?" Steve glared at Bucky who just shook his head. "You got a good thing with that dame and you just can't get your head out of your spangled ass for two seconds to see it?" Steve just stood there dumbfounded. "S-she....she deserves better than a soldier and me," Bucky smirked. "That's the same shit that I used to pull and what did you tell me? That it was bull shit and I needed to knock it off. Hey. She gets to choose and if she chooses you, against her better judgment I might add, thank your lucky stars and run with it punk." Bucky smirked at Steve whose brows were furrowed and was gripping the marble countertop so hard that it was about to crack. "Do you love her?" Steve looked at Buck and nodded. "Yea, she makes me realize that I've never loved anyone before her. Fuck...I don't think I could love anyone after her." Bucky laughed. "Hey. Cool it with the 'fucks' man. I mean geez. I know you're a new man and all but your making my head spin." This made Steve laugh. "Well like Clint says. Go big or go home." Bucky walked up to Steve and patted his shoulder. "Then go big or go home." With that, he walked out of the kitchen leaving Steve with his thoughts on you.

======================================================================

You were in your room trying to put together the recent events and what the hell happened. I mean it started it off well right? Hanging with your best friend and the object of flicking the bean late at night. That's totally normal. Then you decided to help him expand his lame ass-up tight all work approach that has taken him over the past few months. You'd be lying if you weren't excited as hell to have the curse words roll off of all American man's lips, so yeah...you jumped at that opportunity along with a mini makeover. But what in the good fuck were you thinking about helping him with his flirting skills and sitting on his thick ass thighs and lap? I mean someone, PLEASE hit you over the head with the Mjolnir now, because you deserved the current predicament you were in.

You changed into a shirt which was the choice of his or Bucky's and to torture yourself more you chose Steve's, with a shake of your head. You were on your balcony when you heard a knock on your door. Sure it was Wanda or Nat coming to check on you for leaving the game. "I'm fine, go have fun." You heard the knock again. "Come in if you have nothing better to do than bug the hell out me, damn." You were agitated and wanted to wallow in self-pity and be alone, no amount of pep talks from your favorite redhead or little witch were going to do anything at this point.

You heard someone clear their throat and new it was Steve. It reminded you when Tony makes a God awful but funny ass crude joke and everyone, save the two grandpa's, laugh and Steve just clears his throat to get back on task. You closed your eyes for the "Look Y/N." talk that you were sure was to follow.

When you turned around, you had to hold your breath because even though you were thoroughly fucked, and not in a good way, because damn this man was sexy. He took off his hat and tossed it on your couch and had his hair tousled and rumpled giving you the perfect bedhead fanta----fuck snap out of it! You bring your thoughts back into the moment.

"I-I'm sorry, doll. I made you uncomfortable earlier.." You put your hand up. "It's fine Steve. I was just drinking and the game. No worries. You know how those things get?" He looked a bit confused and stood there for a beat staring at you while you were still on the balcony facing him gripping the railing. As he was staring a smirk overtook his face and the confusion seemingly melted away. "That my shirt?" You blushed to know that you had stolen it when he was on his last mission and wanted something comfy to sleep in. Oh well, might as well own up to it, not like you can lie out of this one either.

"Yea, well your smedium threadbare shirts are always the best to sleep in so..." He chuckled and walked closer to you and nodded. "Well you have permission to steal them anytime just don't let the word get out, I don't want any other dames wearing my shit." You smiled and felt the heat radiate from your chest up to your neck and bloom on your cheeks. Damn your skin tone and its utter betrayal. "You've become awfully comfortable with your foul language there Cap." He smirked as he came even closer and you could feel his breath on your face as he looked down at you. "What can I say? I'm a quick learner." He smirked, and you held your breath trying to piece together exactly what was happening? You decided to play along with whatever was materializing before you but only if he took the lead. You sure as hell were not going to make the same mistake twice. At least not on the same night. Momma didn't raise no fool.

"I'd say you had an exceptional teacher Cap. What other skills did you learn." He chuckled and it was deep and you know if he were only a millimeter closer you would've felt the vibrations on your body. Your grip on the railing tightened, and his eyes flicked to it but then back to you immediately with a smile. "Well, I picked up a few things on relaxing and being in the moment. Although I need to get out of my head. Still working on that. Although I do like taking in each and every detail of moments, I don't want to turn that off." You hummed in response as he bent over a bit with his arms still on the railing but leaning towards you. "I may need an example of this." He nodded. "K, like normally the Cap side of me would be thinking about- am I making you uncomfortable with how close I am or should I be in here this late while you're dressed like this? Even though you come to my room and we do movie nights and cuddle. My mind would be overthinking about me not doing the right thing." He was staring into your eyes and you nodded because that was the only thing that your body could do...other than becoming a puddle. Which was very likely at any moment. "However, I know you don't mind me in here, and I need to stop over-scrutinizing every damn thing. But as for the details. You in my shirt, gripping the railing, the flush on your cheeks. These are things I want to memorize and remember." You bit your lip and he licked his. "I'd say the relaxing and analyzing aspect you've got under control there, Steve." You nearly did a fist pump when your voice came out raspy versus squeaky, and you could've sworn you heard the metal railing groan under the pressure of his grip.

"Yea well the clothes and flirting bit need work though." You smirked at dirty images regarding clothes and flirting went through your head. "How so?" He stood up and you frowned at the loss of his warmth and closeness and he smirked, damn him and that smirk. He and Bucky have it on lock, they need to patent it or some shit. "Well, I may need you to dress me every morning? Will that be a problem? Nat said that unless they make garanimals for adults I'm a lost cause and I need to take plaid out of my wardrobe." You chuckled at Nat's comment and took a step closer to him while he sat down in your balcony chair and you stood in front of him. Your bare legs brushing his long muscular ones. "I don't know. I rather like your button up plaids. Although I'm a sucker for button-ups in general." His breathing was picking up now and you knew he was on the ropes, but you needed him to make a move. You refused to put yourself out there and be rejected by him, you wouldn't be able to take it. He leaned forward and looked up at you through those long beautiful lashes. "Why's that doll?" You shrugged but took the leap when his long fingers wrapped around the back of your knee pulling your legs gently closer to him. "Always wanted to take them off of you." He groaned at your admission and licked his lips while running his hands up the back of your thighs. You ran your fingers through his long locks, and he leaned into them and moaned. He pulled you even closer and kissed your thighs and your breathing hitched as his large hands cupped the globes of your ass. He kissed even higher until he was at the apex of your thighs and you moaned out his name. "This ok, doll?" You whimpered what you thought was a yes and please and he let out a deep chuckled which you felt this time as his mouth went to your clothed heat. He licked a long stripe up your center and you're gripped his hair causing him to rip your panties off. "Fuck, m'sorry doll." You laughed. "Don't be. That was the hottest thing I've ever seen." He smiled and gently kissed your clit before licking another long stripe up your folds and sucking on your juices. "Fuck Steve. Your mouth feels so good on me." He moved his head from side to side and ran his tongue in a figure 8 giving your chills and allowing the tension in your core to build. This was going to be the fastest orgasm of your life with the sexiest man you had ever seen. You could feel the coil already building faster and faster threatening to snap. One hand was in his hair and one on his shoulder as he threw one of your thighs over his other shoulder. All you could hear was both of your moans and his sucking on your clit was the last supper. "Damn doll. Is this all for me? Do I make you this wet?" He looked up at you through lust blown eyes and as he inserted another finger to his already one and kept pumping in and out at a steady pace. "Yes, Steve. It's all for you." He bit his luscious lip and dove back in. "I-I'm I'm coming, Cap. Please don't stop." His hand on your hip would surely leave bruises that you would admire in the morning, but right now all you could think about was the flood of euphoria that was engulphing you and the blonde headed adonis between your thighs. You collapsed and he pulled you into his jean-clad lap with his thick hard-on pressing against your wet sensitive cunt. You were breathless as he kissed your neck and allowed you to catch your breath.

"Fuck me, Steve. That was the best orgasm I've ever had." You kissed him, and it was deep and passionate allowing you to taste yourself on his lips. "I fully intend on fucking you, and you're welcome." You hid your face in his neck and laughed. "It's a good thing we had that kiss on that dare at game night otherwise our first kiss would've been on my pussy." You pulled back to look at him please to see that he was blushing. "Actually, I'm ok with that doll. You taste divine either way." He leaned in and kissed you again while you nibbled on his bottom lip resulting in him groaning into the kiss and grabbed your ass. You rocked your bare core on his clothed cock and you could feel him harden even more and you gasped, he felt so good. Your hands traveled underneath his shirt, tugging on it and he took the hint pulling it off quickly. You looked down at him. "No matter how many times I see you without clothes on I will never get used to it." He smirked. "How many times have you thought about me..." Your hands drifted down his chest and to his jeans then dipped below and grabbed his cock as he gasped and closed his eyes. "I get off in the shower or in my bed just about every night thinking about your head between my thighs or your cock inside me Captain." His eyes snapped open and without another word, he picked you up and carried you to the bed.

"I can tell you right now, doll. I'm not going to last long. It's been a long fucking time, and I've dreamt about this as much as you have about me." You laid before him and took off his shirt that you were wearing before he ripped that off too. "Now open your legs for your Captain." He roughly took off his jeans as you whimpered at the sight of him, super soldier indeed. "You do realize I won't be training tomorrow." You looked from his cock to his smirked face. "Doll. The only thing we're going to be doing tomorrow is making up for lost time." His kissed up your stomach and wrapped one calloused hand around your breast and his warm mouth around another causing your back to arch. He pinched your sensitive nub and your hands went to his hair and tugged while he gave a little nibble. He sucked and bit his way up the rest of your body until he was settled between your thighs and at your entrance. "Ready doll?" Your answer was a kiss to him deeply and to take his cock and line it up as he pushed in and stilled himself waiting for you get used to him.

"Please move baby. I need you." He kissed your jaw and began thrusting. "Oh fuck, woman. You feel so good around my cock. You're so tight." You moaned at his words.  How could a man talk so dirty when less than 24 hours ago he would've cringed at the word ass? You loved it. "Please don't stop Cap." You bit his shoulder as he picked up the pace and ran your nails down his back. "I fuckin' love it when you call me Cap. Makes me think of all the dirty things I wanna do to ya. Wanna cum inside you. Feel ya cum around--fuck ...my cock. " He slammed into you harder and grabbed the headboard above you. Your eyes met his lust filled blue ones and you were done. Head over heels in love and being royally fucked by America's Golden boy. "Harder Cap. Wreck me please." He bit his lip as his muscles flexed and he slammed into and his the sweet spot as your walls fluttered around him he knew that was it. He kept going with his thrusts became sloppy. "You were made for me, doll. Fuck. I love you." You gripped onto his strong shoulders and dug your nails in determined to return to that later but now as you both chased your climax. You walls continued to milk his cock for everything it was worth as he continued to ride out the orgasm and you screamed out his name sure to alert the entire floor that he had claimed you as his own. At least for tonight.

He collapsed on top of you, careful to take most of his weight on his elbows and you clung to his deliciously sweaty body as your legs wrapped around his narrow waist and both of you caught your breath. "Fuck me Y/N. That was amazing, please tell me I wasn't awful. Quick I know but damn you were so tight, and you're so beautiful. Can you blame me?" His shoulders likely shook with a laugh but you knew him and his insecurities well enough. You kissed his neck and shoulder. "Steven Grant Rogers, you could do that to me anytime soldier. That was divine." He pulled away and searched your eyes. "How about in the shower and in the ..morning?" You smiled and tucked his just long enough blonde locks behind his ears. "Only if I can pick out what you wear tomorrow." You smiled as he leaned down and kissed you. He gently rolled to the side and brought you with him as both of you kissed in post-coital bliss. "Is this what you want, doll? Because I can't promise that I'll always have the stick out of my ass or that I won't cringe when you launch on a curse-filled tirade. I may only know vanilla sex, but I'll try. Damn it. I'll try anything for you woman." He said it with such conviction and worry laced in his voice that you wanted to set the story straight.

"Steve, I fell in love you with the stick and all. I don't care if you curse or of if you say 'Language Ma'am' as long as kiss me and tell me I'm yours. I love your plaid button ups just as much as your baby t-shirts that you get from who knows where. As for sex, I don't care if it's vanilla, but I do love it when you talk dirty so keep that up Cap and we're good." He blushed and leaned in. "I can do that. I love you. N'ver loved another before you either." He caressed your bare back and absentmindedly drew circles on your skin. Out of nowhere, your bed hit the floor and you squealed as Steve shielded you with his body unsure of what just happened, from the look on his face you'd think you were being attacked by HYDRA for a hot second. You started laughing at him and the realization of what the hell happened.  "Shit doll you ok?" You laughed in response. "You broke my bed." He laughed hysterically but managed to choke out. "I pretty sure we broke your bed." You slapped his shoulder. "You're the super soldier and I saw that insane grip you had on the headboard Captain. I blame this on you. So what are we to do now?" He looked at you. "Got to my room?" You sat up and put on his baby Gap shirt and some underwear and his boxers. "Hey hey doll. I'm going to do the walk of shame commando in just my jeans?" You straddled him and giggled at his furrowed brows. "C'mon handsome, they're probably all passed out or in bed anyways." He shook his head with a smile as he got up and slid his jeans on.

You quietly snuck out into the living room but as you did so you were completely wrong. While everyone was silent, they were all staring at you both with shit-eating grins on their faces. Tony was the first to speak up. "So....you like to be called Captain huh?" Steve turned seven shades of red and you flicked off Tony. "Careful Stark. Don't start something that you can't finish." You arched an eyebrow in Steve's defense and Tony put his hands up in surrender and Steve smirked at your defensiveness of him. "C'mon doll. Let's go back to bed." You held your eyes on Tony. "K, Cap. Let's see if we can break your bed too." Sam spewed his beer out all over Bucky to his dismay. "What the fuck birdman!" He wiped off his face and neck while Tony and Nat were laughing so hard they started crying.

Steve took you to his side and you put your arms around his narrow waist. "Good night you heathens, I'm gonna take my girl to bed." They all hooted at you two as you continued your walk of shame down the hall to his quarters. Halfway down the hall Steve picked you up for show and tossed you over his shoulder as you squealed and smacked your ass. "That's my boy!" Bucky yelled out as he ducked into his room then slammed it with his foot.

He led you over to his bed and threw you down playfully with an oof and stood over you handsome and dominating as ever. You just stared at him in awe and with lust filled eyes. He smirked at you. "What doll? Never seen that look on your gorgeous face before." You blushed and hid it behind your hands and he climbed on top of you and pried them away and looked into Y/E/C with his bright baby blues. "Tell me, whatcha thinkin' baby girl?" You ran your hand up his broad, smooth back as he ran his calloused hands up your thigh. "Don't be shy, doll. It's me. You can tell me anything." You smiled at his honesty and a furrowed tensed brow. "Tell me this is real?" He pressed his body into you and leaned in for a passionate kiss. His tongue explored your mouth and fought for dominance which you easily gave. Your hands went to his hair and tugged. He moaned into the kiss and bit your lip before pulling away with a whine from you. "Is that real enough for you Y/N?" His hand splayed out over your stomach. "I'm in it with you for the long haul if you'll have me, doll. Just talk to me when I'm being an idiot and I promise I'll make it up to you. K?" You nodded. He pulled your hand and you looked at him confused. "What's up, Cap?"

He smirked with a deliciously devious smile that made you weak in the knees. "If memory serves me, we still had a shower to get in and I've never had shower sex. I haven't done a lot of things and you'll be my first for them." He kissed the inside palm of your hand and any jealousy you had over his previous lovers fell away and you had butterflies from being his first on some upcoming rendezvous. "Say, when was the last time you fondued?" He blushed as he removed your shirt and kissed each of your breasts while using his free hand to start the water. "Shit. I knew you'd ask me. It's ..well. It was Peggy. It was a few times before I was frozen and that was it." Your eyes were wide and your mouth fell open. 70  years ago the man lost his virginity, and he had sex 3 times and ...that was the extent of his expertise? Holy shitfuck. "See. I didn't want to tell you. Was it that bad? I knew you were lying." He was embarrassed but he had a small smile on his face too. "Shut your delicious mouth, Rogers. I'm speechless because no man should be that good with that little experience. Now fucking dazzle me again Cap. Since I'm your best girl and all." You winked at him and he bit his lip as he pulled you close.

"Damn right you're my best girl. But you better watch that mouth. Might get you in trouble ma'am" You smiled as you dropped to your knees before him. "Oh. I think it already has Captain."

HOPE YOU ENJOYED MY FIRST CAP FIC. IT WAS FUN AND DELICIOUS. I LOVE NOMAD CAP ALL DARK AND BROODING AND SINFUL. FEEL FREE TO COMMENT AND RATE. MAYBE ILL DO ANOTHER ONE. OR MAYBE NOT AND JUST STICK TO MY BELOVED BUCKY BARNES.