#manhwa fanfic

[lxdymoon0357]

If you have the time, would it be possible for you to write something about the reader and Phineas being in an arranged marriage? Could be a headcannon or a oneshot.

(Warnings: mentions of poisoning.)

© Writing belongs to me, Lxdymoon0357. Do not plagiarize, but reblogging, liking and commenting is deeply appreciated.

Arranged and strange..and jealous..?

Phineas Lapileon was your dear husband, one you could actually stay on civil terms with..Of-course it was hard to actually be friendly, with his strong walls around him to refuse to let anyone in who is not his family, it was as if the entire family did not like anyone aside from their members.

Phineas was your darling husband, you adored him sure..wanted to be romantic, yes...But sadly, like his beauty, it was forbidden to have his heart it seemed, being on cold terms with you.

Asking him to go somewhere with you, it left simple but rather scathing news, "Do whatever you like, dear...I don't care, really" he'd say with a simple polite smile

But once in a while, his smile would be there, a compliment here and there, a kiss to your lips...

It was nice, it was some of the only time you actually felt like you were married to him, you knew it was rather pathetic to hold onto him if his feelings were there for someone else, but he kept civil terms with you.

Of-course conversation to conversation, Pereshati said it had something within family secret but she wasn't allowed to tell you more than that. Lapileons also mostly kept to themselves..

But Lapileons have to show face, being one of the most noble families in the empire, it was only polite.

So of-course you were there, decorated like a real-life doll with expensive clothes and jewellery, making conversations with some noble-man who was rather flattering, smiling sweetly to you,

"Well, it's not quite common to find someone to gorgeous in the empire, beauty is common..but stunning ethereal one likes yours? Rather rare..!" the man whispered, making you almost giggle..No usual how someone was this kind, as you thank them for their compliments, feeling your heart also flutter.

Phineas stood aside, downing his third glass of alcohol, Therdeo and Pereshati beside him, both of them rather concerned but ignored it..talking with other nobles to seem polite, while Phineas' eyes bore into the back of your head with the man,

"Do wherever you want..Why would you want to be with me? I'm just strange..."

That was all his mind ran on, as he watched you giggle with the man, so much happier than you ever seemed with him... Of-course it's not too long,before he actually walks over to lean over and gently kiss your lips all of a sudden,

"Dear, family is calling us" he whispered with a gentle smile making you smile back and butterflies produce in your tummy. Phineas gently helps you up with his gloves hand, his other hand was ungloved, but he kept picking at his nails with his thumbs.

As you two are walking away, he hears a little clang as the man drops his fork. As you walked ahead, he smiles turning back to the man, picking up with fork with his hands, and hands it back to him, before hissing softly,

"Don't you suppose it's rather pathetic to flatter someone else's wife? Are you really that alone and desperate? Please stop acting like a pig." he said to the man bluntly, glare in his eyes but as Phineas leaned back a small sweet smile graced his lips as he handed the fork back to the man.

Upon sitting in the carriage, Pereshati and Therdeo in another carriage, Phineas' hands stay lingering on yours as he leans his head on top of yours, being rather abnormally tall..As he fitted the other glove on his hand, smiling. Smiling softly as he gently kissed your forehead,

"my darling wife." he whispers, as you giggle and lean against him..It was rather nice when his walls fall down for you, as you gently kiss his lips, making Phineas smile, but not from the kiss...

Phineas can almost hear the cry of the man gasping for breath from the poison in his throat from Phineas's nail where he made himself bleed by picking at it in his head..and it's rejuvenating.

[yuriisclumsy]

hii! How are you darling :)

Can i request a crack/ funny and fluffy cale x pregnant reader ? Like she is a few months pregnant, so cale and the kids always lay with her and dont let her do much.

Ofc the others are overprotective of her, bc like shes clumsy😭 like always falling down the stairs, nose bleeds (me core) and she watched everyone panic while looking at them with a deadpanned look bc

1. Shes a baddie whos to hot to die

2.the baby is fine and alive

And cale is loosing his mind bc he cannot leave her alone for two mins bc she will somehow make even more trouble simply bc shes ✨just a girl ✨

Stay still, will you?

𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝:1,267

»»►This is a funny scenario. I like to think Cale is a super, over the top, overprotective, man. If you mess with those he cares about or loves, you’re about to find yourself in an interesting situation. 

»»►But when Cale finds out he’s going to be a papa, he goes wild. Forget accepting whatever mission the crown prince wants him to do, he needs to be right next to his wife–24/7. 

»»►And let’s be honest with ourselves, this man would literally take this chance to laze around even more. This is the life he wanted, no? 

»»►Oh, but his dear wife doesn’t like sitting still for more than a minute. This is torture for her—but can’t do anything about it because her husband and (adopted)kids want her to relax and take care of herself and the baby. 

»»►But, why? You may ask. That’s for the single fact that she is clumsy (hey just like me!). She crashes stuff, trips, falls, hurts herself—according to Cale and the others—she denies such accusations—and last but not least, she gets herself in trouble. 

»»►So, yeah. [Name] have no “stepping outside the state” privileges until after the baby is here physically. But [Name] is a tough cookie. She can handle herself when no-one is around. So—to everyone’s dismay—she goes outside one day. It’s just to stroll around and see what has progressed in Harris Village. 

»»►One thing to note: she didn’t tell a soul about her outing. 

»»►Now imagine Cale’s face when he comes back to see the staff panicking for the whereabouts of his wife. 

»»►Let's just say…it was chaotic that day. 

“Woah, that looks tasty...!” [Name] drooled at the sight. 

“Good morning, lady [Name]! What can I get you today?” The shop owner greeted [Name] with a smile. 

“Can I have this please?” [Name] pointed to one of the delicacies of the bakery. It was a croissant-looking-bread stuffed full of chocolate. 

The owner of the bakery gave her a bag filled with what she ordered. “Here you go! Please come back soon!” the owner waved goodbye. 

“I will!” She waved back at the owner. [Name] took one of the baked goods and began to eat it.  

“I wonder how everyone is doing at the state.” 

… 

“LADY [NAME]!” 

“M’lady! Where are you?!” 

“Does anyone remember the last place [Name] went to?!” 

“M’lady, please be okay!” 

Currently, everyone is in a frenzy. The lady of the house was nowhere to be found, and everyone and their mothers were running like headless chickens in search of her. And if they did not find her, their master was going to kill them! 

“What is with the commotion here?” a voice spoke from the entrance of the manor. 

Everything stopped. Slowly, the housekeepers and butlers turned their heads towards the voice. They knew this voice. Very well in fact. Although they grew to like it, right now, they wish they didn’t hear it. They prayed that it was a ghost. Dread overtook them as they saw the voice’s owner. 

Cale Henituse. Their young master. And the husband of the manor’s lady they were trying to find. 

“So? Is anyone going to tell me why you are all running like the world just ended?” Cale spoke. 

Who was mad enough to even dare to tell the young master that his wife magically disappeared? Not me. And not anyone in this room.  

Yet a brave soul stood up and spoke. May he rest in peace. 

“Ah…y-young mater Cale,” a young butler went forward and vowed, stammering in his word, “we..uh…. Can’t find lady [Name] anywhere...?” 

“...” 

“...” 

It was deafeningly silent. No one moved an inch, waiting—waiting for the order to execute them. They fully accepted their fate. 

“Well, what are you all just standing there for?” he spoke, breaking the iceberg. 

“Huh?” 

“Standing still isn't going to bring back [Name].” He stood there, staring at the crowd. 

He was right. 

They needed to get back to searching for Lady [Name]!  

A chorus of ‘yes, sir!’ was heard before a horde of housekeepers and butlers left in search of their Lady. 

“*sigh* Why are you like this [Name]...?” Cale whispered and looked up. He slowly walked to the exit of the manor heading to the town; the children followed after him–this included Choi Han. 

“Master Cale, where are you going?” Hans asked. 

“I’m going to the market area in the town,” he said, not bothering to look back. “Ron, make my bed as comfortable as you can make, will you?” 

“Yes, young master.” Ron responded. 

“Great.” 

… 

Lovely day for [Name] sitting in the shade of an umbrella and her delicious foods. Going from one shop to another, she had managed to gather a lot of food. She had gone overboard again, yes, but the baby she was carrying and her were happy. Who could ever disturb such happiness? 

“[Name].” A male voice called her name firmly from behind. 

Of course. The only person that could was her husband. [Name] knew he only meant good, but right now he had broken that tranquility. 

“Oh! Cale, love, darling, how are you...?” [Name] turned and looked at him nervously. The children had gathered around her–with Raon being invisible naturally. 

“[Name]...” Cale rubbed the temples of his face before sighing, “why are you out?” he asked sternly. 

“Well clearly, I was taking a walk. And I bought some snacks on the way.” She answered, petting both Hong and Raon while On made herself comfortable in her lap. 

“What–no. That’s not what I meant.” 

“You asked why I was out, and I told you why.” 

“You know exactly why I asked that.” 

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” [Name] gave the children the treats she had bought earlier. 

“[Name], please. You know how dangerous it is for you to be here right now. You are due at any point now! And I just…agh..I just want you to stay safe.” He said in frustration. 

[Name] looked at him, feeling a bit guilty that he is like that. She had reached her ninth month a week ago, making this month the most crucial. She just didn’t want to stay locked up in her room all the time. It was something that did not sit right with her. 

“I’m sorry…” [Name] looked down in shame. 

“I…*sigh* You are going to be the death of me.” Cale came closer to her and placed his hands underneath her. 

“Hu-huh? Cale? What are you doing?” panicking a little before realizing he was going to carry her. 

“Carry you, obviously.” He scuffed. “We’re going back to the manor.” 

“Aww…can’t we go to another shop? It’ll be the last one, I promise!” Her begging went to deaf ears. He wasn’t letting her get away with it, so she started to wiggle her way out his arm. 

“Stay still, will you?” 

“Not until I get my last treat.” 

“*sight…* Fine. But you’ll have it after dinner. Dinner is going to be served soon.” Cale said while walking to the nearest candy shop. 

“Mmmm, I'm fine with that. Oh! Choi Han, hello. Sorry, I didn’t notice you there.” 

“It’s fine lady [Name].” Choi Han gave her a small nod. 

“Moooom…I want a treat too!” 

“I also want one!” 

“The great Roan Miru will get one too, right?” 

“Wait a second. Since when do they call you mom?” Cale asked in confusion. 

“Yes, yes. All of you will get one.” 

“Don’t ignore me.” 

Choi Han giggled as Cale continued to ask and get ignored by them. 

Fin 

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Master-List

[hollyhoneybear]

【 𝐖𝐇𝐎 𝐌𝐀𝐃𝐄 𝐌𝐄 𝐀 𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐒𝐒 】 - being athy's big sister

remember, requests are open !

Athanasia was very weary of you, at first.

In Lovely Princess, you were an impartial character. You treated both Athanasia and Jennette the same, never favoring one more than the other.

At first, you did speak out agaist the claims of Athanasia poisoning Jennette. However, when the fake evidence was presented, you could only side with the law.

The novel didn't expand much on your personally.. You were just Jennette's beloved big sister, and Claude's first daughter.

So she was surprised when almost every day, without fail, you would come running to her nursery, begging whatever maid that was half-hazardly watching Athy to let her play with you.

Although only a few years older than Athy, you did more than the maids every did (aside from Lillian, of course). You happily bottle fed her, read her books, played toys with her.

Still, Athy kept her guard up with you. You'd think she's cute now.. but when Jennette comes along, you'd leave her side just like in the novel.

...

At 10 years old, your little sister was 5. After your persistant efforts, Athy had slowly let down her guard around you. It was alright to relax for now.. right?

Your days before Claude were blissful. You'd sneak Athy chocolates, bake sweets together while the maids gushed over how cute you both were. You'd spend hours in the flower fields braiding wildflowers.

At some point, you basically began living in the ruby palace. You'd crawl into bed with Athy at night, holding her against you as Lily read you both a bed time story.

Every single night a kiss was placed on her small forehead, and you both slept soundly in each other's company.

But that changed when Claude appeared.

...

Both something that you and Athy could agree on was that Claude was.. unknown to you both. He wasn't exactly a good father to either of you.

Still, you saw the opportunity for your family to become closer, so you jumped at the chance!

Every day you were in Claude's office begging him to have a tea party with Athy and her.

Every day you would ask for a bit of money to get Athy a gift - and then of course, suggest he should get her one as well.

Slowly, over time, you three bonded and became closer (even if Athy didn't want to admit it).

When Athy started drowning that one day, Claude watched as you nearly jumped in after her. But he grabbed you by your ankle before you could jump in, instead fishing his hand in to get her out himself.

That surprised you both. You were excited, while Athy was freightened.

Things really changed when Athy had that near-death scare, though. You three were having one of your usual tea parties, when Athy started spitting up blood.

The last thing she saw was you rushing to her side, and Claude staring at you both in shock.

...

After that incident, everything changed. Well - things stayed similar. You three had tea, ate dinner together, went on boating trips. But things just felt.. different.

You both could see the way Claude looked at you two had changed. You were cherished. And while you weren't super caught off guard about it, Athy certainly was.

Every day you were carrying her to Claude's office, and spent almost the whole day in there coloring, playing, or talking to Claude.

Claude started giving you both gifts.

When you appeared at his office one day with Athy, dressed in these adorable matching outfits Lily got for you both, Claude nearly choked at how cute his daughters were.

You three were getting closer, as if you were a real family.. and Athy felt like she could finally, really, relax.

...

As you both got older, your dynamic changed a little, but you were stiill very close.

You helped Athy with everything for her debutante. Choosing decorations, jewelery, makeupstyles to do, dresses to wear, you were involved in every step. And she couldn't have loved it more!

Compared to Athanasia's original debutante, the event didn't feel like an upcoming battlefield, but instead a day to celebrate with her family ....in front of a bunch of nobles, but we'll skip that.

She insisted that you were a dress that matched her's somewhat.

As a teenager, she's much more protective over you. Her darling, angelic older sister, she couldn't just let someone take advantage of you!

Definitely starts getting jealous when you start spending more time with your friends, or your lover.

Despite her fears, you never "left her side" for Jennette. You were always cordial towards her, but Athy was always your first priority.

When Jennette's identity was eventually revealed, despite the ongoing turmoils, you tried to act like family to Jennette, but that sister bond with Athy was a bit different.

And even if it was a little selfish.. she was immensely greatful for that. You were the only person to be on her side since day one.

You were always there during the hardest times for Athy. Even when she ran away, she couldn't bare to see you in distress, so she would visit you every night and keep you updated.

On one occasion, she snuck you out to meet Jennette..

..And it was wonderful! You three spent the night drinking tea, eating cute cookies, and chatting the night away.

It relieved you that, even though Athy wasn't home, she was still safe.

...

By the time Claude got his memories back, you three had the strongest relationship you'd ever had before.

You were.. a real family.

After everything with Anastacius was over, the topic of inheritance came about.

You were, by a good few years, the eldest.. and therefore, the rightful heir to the throne.

You expressed right away that you'd love for Athy to become Empress. But that's where she stops you!!

You've done everything for her in this life. If you weren't here.. she wasn't sure if she'd even be alive, let alone in Obelia.

So after much deliberating, it was agreed that you would be the next Empress of the Obelian Empire.

...Which meant, you had to hang out with Athy a lot less. It was torture for you both.

The bright side was that Athy got to involve herself in all aspects of the planning. She wanted you to have the best coronation, so she deemed herself in charge of the matter, along with Claude of couse. But she'd act like the boss because it's Athy

She helped you pick out a dress, decide on the hairstyle. You two spent countless nights doing makeovers on each other, because she wanted to try different makeup styles on you, and you wanted to try similar looks on her so that you were matching on the special day.

When the day came.. it was magcial.

You were surrounded by your loving little sister, your proud father, the friends you had made, and the empire that adored you.

Although Athy wasn't going to be Empress, you made sure to communicate to her that you two would stay as close as you always had.

Despite her original fate, Athanasia had earned her place of ultimate safety and happiness; right by her big sister's side.

[belovedivies]

Hello👋 I was wondering how would the skinless chicken-I MEAN Nathanael interact with Raphael's older sibling?😅

cw: minor spoiler dividers-credit: @kodaswrld m.list

nathaniel and you…

⋆ ˚｡⋆are the epitome of a match made in hell! We have a body dissection loving maniac who breaks guns with bare hands and a sociopath whose father you buried for the throne that your brother now occupies. Of course, you guys get along like a house on fire.

⋆ ˚｡⋆surprisingly have the time to hang out. You always find a way to forcefully squeeze yourself into his schedule, like dropping by unannounced during his night shifts so you can whip him away for a few minutes! The nurses and patients mistake you two for a couple all the time, something Nathaniel doesn’t bother to clarify anymore.

⋆ ˚｡⋆share what can almost be considered as a bond despite the chaos going on. Aside from Raphael, he’s the one guy whose company you somewhat enjoy and find amusement in. You’re also the only girl who gets to spray deodorant in this scary man’s face and don’t end up being slammed against the wall. It’s a win-win! ☪︎ ･ﾟ ･Nathaniel... begrudgingly acknowledges the influence you have on Glory Club. How a fragile-looking woman can command fear and respect without trying. He, though, still has a hard time wrapping his head around the mind-boggling jokes you blurt out sometimes versus the cruelty you’re capable of inflicting. One night, after a quick patient checkup, the Apostle found you in the hallway along with two of his men out cold on the floor, their hands and legs bent at all different angles. Then you just ran up to him with a smile, never elaborating on what happened. ☪︎ ･ﾟ ･You... think Nathaniel’s pride now might as well be his downfall. He’s strong, he’s smart, and he has potential. But this is THE Peter we’re talking about. If that boogeyman is lurking around the corner and somehow still as unbeatable as he was 50 years ago, Nathaniel—even in all his evolutionary glory—statistically stands no chance of surviving. And if he is lucky enough to just barely make it out alive, the man’s ego is gonna be damaged for good. ☪︎ ･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･❂

“It’s so cold out here…” You tugged your legs underneath your chin and let out a loud yawn, wiggling your feet. “I thought the rainy season ended last week?”

Five centimeters away from you on the bench, Nathaniel leisurely sipped on his Americano. “High humidity levels,” he set the cup aside, “so your clothes might get saturated by the moisture in the air.”

“Huh, guess that’s why I’m still shivering in these 70D stockings—“ mid-sentence, your eyes widened when the guy suddenly took off his blouse and draped it over your lap. “Thanks.”

Nathaniel just shrugged and picked up his drink again. Two nurses walked by and cooed at the scene, though you weren’t sure if the attention was on you or him, or the playing-house act he had been tolerating for a while.

You scanned your surroundings: the hospital’s courtyard was mostly empty at this point. A few elderly patients hung out in the right corner of a dimly lit cafeteria, doing their nighttime stretches. When you look up, a billboard on the side of the building greeted your eyes—a picture of an old-looking Peter with his back hunched. The bounty flashed beneath it in place of the contact number for donation: 7,6 Billion Won.

“Kim Soongu…” The words left your lips as an afterthought, but then you caught Nathaniel’s jaws clenching in your peripheral vision with the coffee cup suddenly crushed to a pulp in his palm, a river of brown dripping to the ground.

The awkward silence didn’t even last for three seconds before a hysterical fit of laughter left your throat as you clung to your stomach.

“Holy fuck—“ snickering, you leaned against Nathaniel’s side like you two were having a sleepover. “Look at the way you got your panties in a twist with just the mention of his name. Is he that good?”

Your slightly-closer-than-an-acquaintance furrowed his eyebrows and answered through gritted teeth. “Brat…”

“Annoying too?” you mirrored his cocked brow with amusement, cheek leaning on his shoulder as you watched the guy slip off his beverage-soaked glove, “didn’t the stats say Soongu is just another D-rank killer though?”

“Not it from my observation.” Nathaniel huffed. “He had some untapped potential. Having him on my team would be… beneficial.”

You tilted your head. “For…?”

“Taking down Peter,” he looked a little irritated at your constant questioning, but ultimately decided not to show that frustration. Instead, Nathaniel’s raspy voice took on what seemed to be a teasing note; his lips curled up into an easy-going smile as the man flicked your forehead.

“So much for your plastic surgery idea, princess.”

“Ow—!” You squealed, touching the violated skin; he wasn’t even using force and you could already feel a bump rising. “What do you mean? So it wasn’t him?”

“It’s real skin from what I felt.” Nathaniel ran a hand over his hair. “Tch, whatever. When he shows up tomorrow, I’ll definitely find out.”

Tomorrow. You tucked your legs further under your chin, eyes still trained on him.

“Hyun Il.”

“?”

The Apostle turned his head towards you.

“You’re 100% likely to die.”

“Doubtful, aren’t we?”

You let out a giggle. “You wanna hear me say it?”

Nathaniel’s gaze hardened. “I will win.”

Cute.

A sigh left your lips as you stared up at the dark sky above. It was a relatively starless night, but there were still some lonely orbs twinkling if you squinted hard enough.

Some saw themselves as the sun—the center of this universe with planets orbiting around them. Constantly striving for a new high. Yet there were bound to be limits. A wall in between. Something, someone who might just show up one day and render all of their efforts useless.

How incompetent we were in the grand scheme of things.

☪︎ ･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･⋆˖⁺‧₊☽◯☾₊‧⁺˖⋆･ﾟ ･ﾟ·:｡･ﾟﾟ･❂

"Planning to dig up his body?"

Raphael's comment earns a small smile from you. Taking your little brother's hand, you stand up from where you have been crouching on the ground for the last few minutes.

"Nathaniel doesn't need to be physically here to haunt me," you hum playfully while his fingers brush off the imaginary dust on your hair. "Jokes aside, he's cremated. I'm surprised to find out that could still work without the furnace blowing up; he's like a walking T vessel."

"Mhm…"

"Found anything at the scene?"

At your inquiry, Raphael's brows drawn together in a way that reminds you of Nathaniel. Then again, frustration doesn't have a second face.

"Tch, nothing at all." His grip around your shoulders tighten. "That bastard vanished without a trace."

All the killers dying… so that really was Peter's doings. You've seen the outcome from miles away, yet who is to say the result doesn't baffle you in the slightly? What Glory Club is dealing with here is no longer a human being.

"Hey, Raphael…" for a second, the face of an unfamiliar teenager pops up in your mind—black hair, red eyes that hold an immaculate sense of authority, "do you think that…"

"Yes?" Your brother tilted his head. There's a lump in your throat that is suddenly too hard to swallow.

"Nevermind," as quick as that eerie hypothesis comes to be, you forcefully swat it away; a sharp edge to your smile, "let's get back, shall we? It's gonna start raining soon."

[themissinghand]

Welcome home author, how was your day?🫂🫂

I hope you take care of your health.I fell in love with Han Yoojin x reader.Can I make a request Han Yoojin x reader?.Where the reader is his wife in the first life and also know that Han Yoohyun always protecting Han Yoojin behind the shadow so the reader always tells her husband's condition to her brother-in-law but the problem is that the reader died because the hospital she went to was attacked by a monster (you can do whether the reader is pregnant or not). So they both meet again before they get married in the regression .Well yeah it's heavy angst😭 to romantic.😍

Take care of yourself and make sure you get enough water and rest.❤️❤️❤️❤️..Send you hugs and love. 💕💕..I apologize for my English

S-Class That I Raised: Heartstrings [2]

Part 1!

Summary: In which you don't remember Han Yoojin in this life, but he remembers everything. 

Or, Yoojin has nightmares of the past, a constant reminder that he will make you happy in this life. 

(And perhaps, he’s not the only one)

Pairing: Han Yoojin x F! Reader

Note: I'm doing well anon! Hope you are having a fabulous day too! Sending hearts -> you.

Part 2 of the Heartstrings series since it seemed like it was fitting. Made this by listening to Past Lives by sapientdream. 

This came out longer than I expected it too, with a lot more emotional feels. I hope this still satisfies your request! 

Warnings: Angst and fluff because it’s a regression manhwa, what did you expect?

★・・・・・・★

Han Yoojin still has nightmares and visions of the past. 

He dreams of his incompetence and his sorrows, his uselessness and ignorance. 

Every time he sees you, now the S-Class Saintess in the spotlight, there’s something that gnaws at him, telling him to stay away because he was the danger in your first life.

His inferiority was dangerous, as it influenced his attitude and behaviour, but then he met you. 

His healing was slow and gradual, and perhaps now he realized that his brother cared too. After all, you who reported his healing journey to Yoohyun, and Yoohyun, protected both of you in the shadows. 

(His inferiority complex used to curse him, made him jealous seeing your friendly interactions with Yoohyun)

Truly, he used to be such a pathetic man.

In his past life, Han Yoojin would never imagine he would get to marry you. 

His marriage ceremony was small, simple, but warm. While on his side was only him, his brother, and some colleagues, your family was much more full and welcoming. 

To him, you and your family were angels. Supportive, kind, and took him and Yoohyun in like a family. 

Although Yoojin grew up without his parents and took care of Yoohyun alone, he always wanted a family. So he was nervous meeting your parents for the first time. 

But who knew? Who knew parents could be so loving, caring, and protective? Of course, your father and brother gave him “the talk”, and made themselves clear that he needed to protect you and respect you. 

(You made sure Yoojin wasn’t bullied for too long)

Yoojin was constantly reminded of love, and he could see that love change his brother too. 

Despite the fact that he was a F-class hunter, or Yoohyun a S-class hunter, they treated them like sons of the family. 

He could see that you grew up with love, and also share that love with him. 

Of course, Yoojin reciprocated their love and care just like Yoohyun did; he didn’t want to disappoint your family.

But, nothing ever goes smoothly doesn’t it?

One day, monsters appeared near your parents home, and when Yoojin and Yoohyun rushed there, they saw your Father, a normal civilian, protecting his wife and son with all his might. 

Yoojin never had more respect for a man, a father, before. 

With such a proud, relieved smile, your father spits out blood and falls to his knees.

“Take care of my family.”

Only when he saw them, he finally fell with a peaceful smile. 

Those were his last words.

Losing your Father was devastating.

It took weeks for your family to grieve. Yoojin remembers standing beside Yoohyun, and watching you, your mother and your brother pray, cry, and grieve. 

That was when you decided to work more to help support the family, even though the job of a hunter is dangerous.

No matter what your family says, you stubbornly chose to earn money so they can live comfortably.

Even if he was useless, Yoojin always tried to go with you into every dungeon, so he can protect you. After all, he made an oath.

“Father.” Yoojin remembered kneeling before your Father’s photo and kowtow. 

“I will protect (Y/N), and your family. I swear on my name.” 

Yoohyun too, kneeled and swore. 

For the first time in a long time, Yoojin saw such a raw emotion in his younger brother’s eyes. 

Yet, neither of them could fulfill that promise. 

“What do you mean?” Yoojin grabbed the collar of his brother’s jacket.

“Say that again!” 

“It’s my fault that my sister-in-law died.” Yoohyun looked guilty and bitter, which made Yoojin feel even worse. 

“W-What-” 

“It’s because Haeyeon Guild has enemies, and they targeted sister-in-law. They led her into that B-Class dungeon.” Yoojin felt his hands shake as he let go due to shock, his vision blurs, and he tried hard to not let those tears fall. 

“They’re dead now.” Yoohyun says robotically, but the emptiness in his eyes didn’t clear up.

For a moment, the two brothers stood them silently, both gripping at the sad reality. 

“It doesn’t matter anymore. She’s gone.” 

Pathetic. Yoojin couldn’t hold back his tears, just like how he couldn’t protect you. 

Again, a beat of silence.

“Hyung.” As if the reality couldn’t be worse, Yoohyun pulled out a file and handed it to him. 

“I got this from our investigation.” 

Dully, he reached out to read it even though his heart had sunk. 

It was a hospital checkup letter, and when he read it, Yoojin felt dizzy, nauseous as if he was gonna throw up. He remembered that you went out to get a checkup because you weren’t feeling well. 

As if everything was coming to him at once, his legs finally gave out under pressure. 

He just wanted to be with you, but why? Why did you leave him? Just like his parents did? 

“Hyung. Hyung!” Yoohyun managed to catch him before he fainted. 

You were two months pregnant with a child.

His child. Their child. 

Their child that he could never see.

“Yoojin!” Yoojin was used to these nightmares, whenever he woke up, he was out of breath, terrified and self-loathing. 

But this time, you were there. 

Why were you there? It was his room? 

“(Y/N)?” Breathless, he reached out to you, and gently grazed your cheeks. Tears rolled down his cheeks when he thought of your memorial and funeral. 

He wanted to hold you, kiss you, and cuddle you in his arms. 

But he held himself back, he was afraid of repeating the past. 

“I love you.” It was such a tiny whisper, he wondered if you even heard it, and if you did, what would happen? 

Never in a thousand years, would he hear these words from you. 

“I love you too.” 

What? Do you remember?

In that instant, it was as if the dam broke. Yoojin remembered the unbearable grief, the sleepless nights, and the desperate wish for a second chance.

Do you remember? The love they had shared, the life they had built, and the cruel twist of fate that had torn them apart?

Without a word, you pulled him into your arms, holding him tightly against your chest. The warmth of your body, the steady rhythm of your heartbeat, was a lifeline that grounded him in the present. His arms wrapped around you, one hand tangling in your hair, the other pressing you closer as if he could meld their souls back into one.

“Bong told me. I dreamed of our past lives.” You whisper in between your tiny sobs. 

It felt so foreign, yet so familiar when you two cling on each other, with tears soaking your clothes.

"I'm so sorry," Yoojin choked out finally, his voice breaking with the intensity of his emotions. "I couldn't save you...I couldn't..."

You shook her head, pulling back just enough to look into his eyes. "It wasn't your fault," you whispered, her voice hoarse with tears. 

"We were victims. But we're here now, together. We have another chance, and we’re stronger now."

Yoojin cupped your face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away tears. 

(Yours or his? Does it even matter now?)

"I promise you," he said, his voice steady despite the tears streaming down his face, "I will protect you. I won't let anything take you away from me again."

You nodded, a small, sad smile tugging at her lips. 

"And I will always stand by your side, no matter what."

They stayed like that for what felt like an eternity, holding each other as they cried, their tears mingling together. The pain of their past life was still there, a haunting reminder of what they had lost, but in each other's arms, it felt that nothing else mattered. 

In his 2nd life, Han Yoojin would never imagine he would get to marry you (again).

His marriage ceremony was small, simple, but warm. While on his side was his brother and S-class hunters who have become a part of his life, your family was full of laughter and warmth.

A stark contrast, but still welcoming as he watches you walk towards him with your father. 

You were beautiful. 

In past lives or in this one, you are an angel. 

“I trust that you will protect my daughter.”

With a bow, Yoojin swore an oath to your father. 

“Yes, I swear, I will make your daughter happy.” 

Your father gave an approving nod, before handing you off to him. For a moment, he felt tears well up seeing him alive and well, and so trusting of him, but he held back. 

He won’t be a pathetic man any more. 

“I promise to stand by your side, in every life, through every challenge. I love you, Yoojin, now and forever.” Hearing your vow, his heart stirs as you share understanding looks. 

Yoojin’s voice wavered as he responded, “I promise to protect you, to cherish every moment we have. I love you more than words can say. In this life and the next, I’m yours.”

When the officiant pronounced you husband and wife, it felt like the world had stopped, and it was just the two of you in the center of the world. Yoojin’s hands trembled slightly as he held yours, but his grip was firm, determined.

“You may kiss the bride,” the officiant announced, and Yoojin leaned in, his lips meeting yours in a kiss that was both tender and passionate. It was a kiss that spoke of promises kept and everything he’s been fighting for all his life.

You. If it’s you, it’s worth it. 

Applause erupted around you, the cheers of friends and family blending into a harmonious symphony of love and support. 

Yoohyun, standing close by, allowed a rare smile to grace his lips, his eyes reflecting a mixture of relief and happiness. 

In his arms was Bong, your little dog who has snuggled close to him and yips happily at the sight. 

Finally, Bong doesn’t have to be the only one that remembers. 

[kamirai-k]

Through Turning Pages (Along careful Brush strokes)

Summary:

He was broken. Nothing more than a ruined mess never able to connect with those around him when he couldn't do something as simple as a customary greeting. Then he met her. Someone whose scent he liked. Someone whose scent he craved. And it terrified him. or Librarian Yeonwoo X Artist Haesol and make it omegaverse!

Pairing: Yeonwoo / Haesol

Tags: A/B/O, Library AU, Slow burn, Long Fic, Librarian Yeonwoo, Artist Haesol,

Word Count: 9.2k

Chapter 1: Prologue

A groan clawed up his throat and scratched at his insides, almost sputtering past dry lips as he swallowed it, refusing to let out a sound to prevent losing focus.

Currently, Yeowoo was doing one of the more dull tasks required of him. Habitually swiping book after book under the propped-up scanner. Mind wandering to anything other than the necessary but incredibly mundane task at hand. His shoulders slump while fingers absentmindedly tap away at the keyboard every so often, adding new information to the database without much thought.

The library was nearly empty, save for a few people reading quietly in the further corners, so Yeonwoo resigned himself to sorting through the endless stacks of recently acquired books. Carefully aligning their spines on the cart to be shelved later.

As he scanned each bar code, the piercing ping from the scanner grew cyclically deadening, long nails faintly clacking against the keyboard with every other word he typed. He made a mental note to trim them once he returned home.

The tediousness of his work was mind-numbing, yes. But the small silver lining in the form of crisp, fresh pine blanketing him he had grown accustomed to, and the slightly chemical, yet mellow aroma of inked parchment provided a welcome distraction, even if just marginally so, as he stole glances at the digital clock towards the bottom right corner of his computer screen. His impatience building.

The library was on the cusp of closing for the evening —sun dipping below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of purple and hints of blue. Therefore he wasn’t the least bit surprised that most of the usual patrons were now gone. Leaving him alone save for the occasional rustle of pages as he flipped through newly purchased books and the chime of each one he scanned.

Yeonwoo swung his legs out in front of him. One after the other, letting them dangle in the air in an attempt to stimulate muscles he knew he would have to stretch out later. He raised his head from where it rested on his collarbone, fighting against the pull of sleep to turn honey eyes towards the open scene sprawled out before him.

Neatly organized rows of tables stretched out. Little pieces of paper, and knick-knacks from the patrons who’d forgotten to clean after themselves, resting on top. Carefully cataloged books to his right that yawned past as they patiently sat on pine shelves, waiting to be read. The sight brought a warmth flooding into his chest, helping clear some of the fog in his tired mind.

It was a small but positive testament to how his painstaking work showed some results.

The patrons had been surprisingly obedient when he’d informed them of the library rules. He didn’t know whether it was his designation that allowed for such a smooth transition, but they had made sure to heed his warning, so he couldn't complain.

Previously, the shelves would have been cluttered with all sorts of objects. Snack trays and leftover food wrappers, to random knick-knacks. Don’t even get him started on the tables.

Unlike most libraries, Yeonwoo allowed the patrons to eat there. They just had to clean up after themselves —that was his first order of business when he began working here. Now, there was minimal clutter for him to clean up. The people had done well to organize their things and leave the places they worked in relatively clean, save for a scrap of paper or a wrapper here and there. He could fix that later.

Two more hours and I’m done , he thought.

His mouth widened into a poorly suppressed yawn, an unoccupied hand instinctively rising to cover it. Yeonwoo wiped a tear nearly falling off long lashes and hurried to glide the last book under the scanner. Letting out a triumphant huff, his fingers twitched, as a yet-to-bloom grin tugged at chapped lips. He stepped back.

He always enjoyed a good stretch after a long day of work. Relishing in the momentary illusion of calm it brought, even if just for a few moments.

He brought his hands above his head, arching his back, then letting out an exhale of pure relief. Yeonwoo allowed himself to feel the pull on his muscles, letting it grow uncomfortable before releasing it. The long-awaited euphoria blissfully cascaded deep into tired bones. Slowly, he brought stretched-out hands back down to his sides once the relief subsided. The after tingle had him shuddering.

He was in desperate need of a taller chair to avoid standing for hours on end. Despite finishing his work and feeling restless, he couldn’t leave his desk without making sure everything was done in totality. Yeonwoo longed to get up and take a stroll, but the perfectionist in him wouldn’t allow it until he was sure he had done good.

He silently cursed himself along the way, begrudgingly beginning his final review. In times like this, he wanted to rush and get things over with, but much like with everything he did, he couldn’t finish unless he was sure he hadn't made any mistakes. He already had enough of those. 

Meticulously, he double-checked every detail, painstakingly skimming through stacks of books on his left. Making sure everything was spelled and organized in proper order. The process seemed endless.

A relieved sigh from the back of his throat released when prompted with a green screen with white letters displaying ‘done’ in dramatic cursive.

A tired smile formed at the thoughtful gesture from his shift lead. Eunchae had always been kind to him, finding small ways to alleviate the more strenuous aspects of his work. He crouched to grab his stainless steel water bottle resting under the desk next to the stack of printer papers to be used later and steadied himself before unscrewing the cap to take continuous sips of his still-warm drink.

The hot tea flowed down his throat, going along its passage to warm his core. Yeonwoo mentally thanked Junhyuk for the millionth time. Now, the unusual Christmas gift made sense as he parted from the straw with a pop to lick moist lips, satisfied.

After placing the bottle back down where he’d plucked it from, and cleaning up the clutter that accumulated throughout the long day. Yeonwoo turned to follow the sharp angle of his desk. Reaching behind the entryway he opened the gated barrier. One of the newer additions to the place since he’d begun working here. 

He did a little hop past the gateway, momentarily running his hand along the carvings. Yeonwoo always found the designs that Ha Yejin ordered to be quite endearing. 

Surveying the space in front, he made his way to and halfway through the row of tables while admiring marble columns, and the shelves made of birch attached to them. Those same shelves lined with so many books that the thought of what was in their pages excited him.

Passing the tables and curling left, Yeonwoo began his exploration of the many aisles to the right and now left of him, wandered further in. Despite working in the library for several months now, he still struggled to navigate the spacious area. No amount of Eunchae’s detailed tours and guides were of any help when it came to the further reaches of the library, especially the second floor.

Eunchae, despite being a beta, had a bold and outgoing energy that was not characteristic of her dynamic. Most betas tended to keep to themselves, avoiding contact with Omegas due to the large gap between them. Never entertaining or even thinking of interacting with the other two dynamics. Especially omegas, whom they had the most complicated relationship with. Eunchae seemed unfazed by these norms. 

So when the beta came to him with eagerness and excitement with an undercut of nerves permeating through every word she spoke to him, Yeonwoo couldn’t help but agree to her request. He could also be of some use to Junhyuk, so how could he say no?

With a quick flick of his gaze side to side, his eyes finally landed on what he had been searching for; a towering marble column that was the front-most part of the sought-after bookshelf. Its smooth surface had a large ebony plaque reading fantasy, contrasting nicely with the Corinthian-style marble column it was nailed to. Fingers traced along the column for a few seconds, running his hands along them, before stepping into the fantasy section.

As he browsed through the shelves, his steps took him to different sections of the aisle. Now and then, pausing when a book cover caught his eye, and stayed when the blurb on the back or first page required more concentrated focus.

While he was easily impressed, Yeonwoo had higher standards when it came to finding something that truly captured his attention. The pads of his fingers ran along smooth pine shelves. Painting damp patterns as he browsed shelf after shelf at a leisurely pace. 

Somewhere far off, he heard the faint sound of a bell signaling that one of the few patrons in the library had left or someone new had come in.

His ears perked at the sound, briefly interrupting his focus on the book he held in his hands, before picking up where he left off. As someone who never quit a book halfway, he had to make sure it would be interesting enough for him to read all the way through. Sitting on a conveniently placed stool after brushing it off, he read the first chapter. Just as an introduction to know whether he would continue.

Interesting would be a severe understatement when describing how captivating the writing style of this author was and how grand the world they had thrown him into was. It was so engaging as if he really was in this world. He couldn’t wait to sink into it.

Thankfully this time, Yeonwoo remembered where he had come from and didn’t get lost in the maze of shelves. He was well aware that he shouldn’t stray too far, but as he passed the mystery section his steps stuttered and ultimately stopped. 

Refusing to allow him go any further. 

The books called out to him, telling him to come and take just a few more peeks.

Well, what was one more?

He slipped into the walkway after much (zero) deliberation, starting another browsing session. In his second favorite section of the library. Perhaps it was because this was where the scent of pine was the strongest, or perhaps it was because this was where he found his favorite books and authors. Maybe it was because this aisle happened to be the calmest place in the library despite its location. Making it quiet and peaceful even when the bustle of the place was at its peak. Regardless, Yeonwoo couldn’t resist, always frequenting the aisle at least twice a day, three if he was lucky. 

(Except on days when things had become too much. The thoughts in his head needing immediate silencing. Only to find that he’d spend hours in between the shelves. A pile of already read books to his right and too much time having passed.)

His finger caught on a particularly interesting one. Its spine, the color of aged parchment and rough fabric, sandwiched between two other books hugging it. With a gentle tug, he pulled it out. Yeonwoo looked over the cover to reveal it had a cloth barrier with a small tear in it. It took several moments to realize there was a woman behind it. The cloth ripping right where her lips would be and dulled eyes looking back at him.

Normally, Yeonwoo would have read the blurb or at least the first page of a book before deciding whether he was interested, but this one was different. Not only was it written by one of his favorite authors, but with such a chillingly simple yet captivating cover?! He knew the mystery in this must have been good.

Carefully balancing both books in his arms, bringing them toward his chest he began making his way back to his desk. The mystery aisle wasn’t one of his favorite aisles only because it was his favorite genre, no. Yeonwoo could easily find his way back to his desk when he was done with his relatively short browsing.

Only a little more and he could rest for the weekend. He may have loved his job. However, he would never say no to the calm of his dorms and the accompanying scent of leather.

His desk came into view, and he could feel the familiar pull to get settled and sink into that awaiting chair, contentment almost overflowing into excitement.

Suddenly, the chime of the door opening rang throughout the near-empty space. Yeonwoo stopped in his tracks.

Standing at the entrance of the library, yards away from him, stood a woman. She, having not seen him just yet, paused for a moment. Letting out what seemed to be a breath before sliding the bag on her shoulder down the length of her arm. Catching the handle with her hand. She began shrugging off her black trench coat to reveal a well-fitted navy turtleneck.

The library wasn’t closed. They close at the same time, 9 pm sharp. On the dot every day. The closer the clock hands inched towards that time, however, the fewer people were in the library with him. 

She tucked her coat under the arm that she held her bag with and lifted her gaze. Yeonwoo stiffened and could feel eyes on him. If not for the thick glasses and cap she wore that obscured most of her features, he knew he wouldn’t have been as composed, as he bowed his head in greeting before taking a few steps toward his desk.

He saw her pause, eyes lingering on him before bowing her head in return. A shiver crawled up his back, although he couldn’t see it, Yeonwoo could feel her gaze following him as he carefully arranged his books on the desk. He was used to being alone at this time. Being alone with someone else in this large library was uncommon.

Yeonwoo’s hands trembled as he placed them on top of the pile of books, slowly running them along the smooth covers. He could still sense her eyes on him. For some reason, it didn’t make him feel as uneasy as it usually did when people looked at him for what he felt was too long.

The atmosphere seemed to have shifted when he saw her. Something about the way she carried herself didn’t set off any of his honed alarms. Yeonwoo couldn’t figure out why, despite the fact she was the more domineering type.

Following the angle of the desk back to the gate, his fingers just grazed the surface of the dark wood. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw the stranger approach a step and enter further in. She made her way towards the further back tables, followed by setting her things down.

His eyes lingered on her a moment longer before he tore them away, reaching for the key to the gate nestled in the pocket of his baggy pants. His fingers fumbled with the keys before catching himself. He pushed it open once he turned the key albeit with a little more force than intended. Once inside, his mind still buzzed as he tried to regain his grasp on his barring.

He turned the corner after a few steps, and pushed open the door, revealing the quaint space that was the break room. The simple yet inviting setup had a small wooden table adorned with a sleek kettle and an array of teas in various tins closer to the back of the room. A comfortable lounge to the farther left of that, decorated with plush pillows of all shapes and sizes scattered along the sofa, along with blankets so soft Yeonwoo could spend all day laying in the cushions bundled up in them.

His favorite piece of furniture in the room, however, was the extremely comfortable, unfairly soft chair, tucked in the corner of the room Ha Yejin had gotten him. Yeonwoo didn’t know where she’d gotten such an expensive item, but he was grateful. 

He still needed to find a way to show his appreciation for the gift, however. 

Yeonwoo furrowed his brow, shame bubbling to pour down his back as he grabbed the wings of the chair. He carefully maneuvered it out of the room to line up perfectly with his desk. It was a unique mix of a rocking chair, with curved rockers, plus a wing-back chair, with soft plush cushions. Just looking at it was enough to release all the strain on sore muscles. 

He picked up his books from where they rested on the walnut counter, placing them on the rocker before hooking his foot under the footrest to drag it closer to his desk. Lastly, spinning to tumble into his chair.

He sunk into the plush armchair, resting there for a while, letting himself enjoy the softness caressing his cheek. Almost hugging him. After a little more nestling into the soft cushions, he separated himself a little to kick off his shoes. Curling up into the soft cotton that cradled and dissolved all the tension of the day away.

Yeonwoo couldn’t resist rubbing his cheek against the plush cushions once more, releasing a pent-up sigh. He needed to thank Ha Yejin for this. It had been a month since she’d gotten it yet he hadn’t said a word to her about it since.

Yeonwoo appreciated the offerings people would gift him on account of his Omega status. He’d gotten lucky, for once, in winning the immediate favor of a kind shift lead and an even kinder director, the Alpha and Beta taking a liking to him over the months he had worked here.

They were endlessly kind and patient with him, never berating him for messing up. It confused him at first, and he knew this was the typical treatment of omegas. Yeonwoo, though, hadn’t been an omega for that long.

His lashes fluttered, and he forced them open before reluctantly uncurling himself and pulling his face from the soft cotton furnishing to pick up the book he’d placed by his side. As he settled himself into a comfortable position and swung his legs over the arm to sink further into the soft covering, Yeonwoo flipped to the first page and began.

The first line was what initially hooked him on his first read, even upon rereading the prologue.

The apocalyptic setting was a nice and intriguing contrast to his usual reads. Sky heavy with ash yet to fall, the depressing setting of farmers having to work in those conditions. While two Alphas overlooked them as they talked about a topic as if the farmers weren’t there. His eyes devoured the page and stopped only whenever something piqued his interest enough to reach for the sticky notes and pencil stored in the cupboard to write them down. 

The soft rustling of pages turning, the occasional crinkling and ripping of sticky notes he would place in between pages steadily increased. Pages marked with colorful notes, each one donning a scribbled word or two as a reminder of an important passage to be revisited later. By the time he reached the end of the prologue, his intrigue had escalated to a fever pitch, and the need to keep reading.

Before he would delve back into that story, however, he cautiously poked his head out from behind his desk to find the woman from earlier was no longer seated where he’d last seen her. The only trace of her presence was her neatly draped trench coat over the back of a chair and her leather bag resting on the table.

She must have gone to find a book in the library.

He sucked in a breath before settling back into the plush cushioning, furrowing his brows in concentration. One finger carefully holding his place in the pages, though now he sat up straighter.

The gentle creaking as he rocked back and forth helped his focus, debating whether or not he should get up from the unfairly comfortable chair and help. Or leave her to find what she was looking for. 

Since he’d started working here, Yeonwoo prided himself on his growing patience and time management. People could spend hours searching for books and he wouldn’t bat an eye. Offering to help in some cases when he saw someone too nervous to do so themselves.

Now, however, having such little time meant they were on a time crunch. The book he was reading may have been good, sure, but he was willing to set it aside for the next few minutes or so if it meant helping someone in need.

He gently smoothed out the sticky notes in between the pages, taking a larger one to place where he left off. Reluctantly, Yeownoo began to separate himself from the comfortable position in which he lay, but before he could fully stand, the sound of approaching footsteps echoed through the quiet library and had him pause.

He looked up and saw her emerging from a pathway that led to the further reaches of the library, behind the dozens of tables and just in front of the lounge parallel to him. She made her way back to the desk she was currently occupying, strides long and reaching her desk in no time, two books in hand to place them atop the table.

He watched her maneuver some things before sinking back into his chair, relieved as he shifted to curl up once more, but conflicted. She had thankfully found what she needed, so logically there shouldn’t have been any reason for him to feel the creeping sensation of disappointment. Yet, it nipped at his toes like a stubborn shadow, refusing to leave him be and enjoy the rest of his time that would be over in. He glanced at the clock, one hour.

Yeonwoo observed as she settled herself, there was nothing all that unusual about how she sat down, opened her book, and started reading. Something, however, something left him unable to look away as she sat there, something tugging at him. It took him a while, but he realized, her cap was off. Her hair concealed most if not all her features but, he could subtly make out the sharp outline of her jaw and pointedly attractive nose.

What heightened his confusion about whatever this was, however, was when she held her book in one hand. Finger stuck in the pages of her latest read, to roll up the sleeves of her turtle neck and reveal pale, strikingly toned arms.

He wondered if it was just him or had the library had suddenly become stuffy. He swore he could feel his sweater sticking uncomfortably on his skin. Maybe that’s why he was being so unusual, even by his standards.

The library heater had been running all day. It must have been the heat getting to him. With the number of people that had been roaming around a few hours prior and others studying, it was no wonder even the larger-than-average library had gotten a little toasty.

Yeonwoo sprung to his feet, the chair behind him scraping against the wooden floor an inch in the process. Hastily fumbled his shoes back on, he strode his way towards the gate.

Once he opened and closed it behind him, he walked straight ahead towards the tables, only now realizing he would pass this stranger on his way to his destination. Maybe he could just wait it out? A little more heat wouldn’t hurt anyone, especially when the moment you stepped outside, the thick cloud that formed as you exhaled was instantaneous. 

He didn’t have time to regret his decision. Sadly, he was already nearing the halfway mark, and he couldn’t simply turn tail now simply because of cold feet.

Yeonwoo couldn’t help but fiddle with the chain attached just below his collar. It had been a new habit of his to fiddle with it. Ever since his mother had gotten it for him now that he’d entered society as an omega.

His steps, which were previously slow and contemplative, turned quick when he reached the halfway point, eager to pass by. As his luck would have it, however, he wouldn’t be allowed to pass without interaction of sorts because then he saw her. Or at least, part of her behind thick glasses.

A shiver ran down his spine as what looked to be dark eyes behind circular lenses slowly, lazily looking him over briefly met surprised honey ones before she lowered her gaze back to her book. Then he stumbled.

Yeonwoo could barely see her eyes under the hazy lenses of thick glasses concealing half her face. But despite only catching a partial glimpse, he’d reacted like a teenager. To make matters worse, his feet caught on absolutely nothing and he stumbled. 

Face heating as the embarrassment came not long after. He hurried his steps, ears tinged a tad rosy. To think he wasn’t even halfway to his destination, yet he’d embarrassed himself so much already. Racing past the halfway point, each step seemed to echo embarrassingly loud. Yeonwoo regretted his decision that morning to don boots.

He was two tables and closing in, ready to make the sharpest turn left and he would be in the clear; when he stupidly looked up from where he’d made sure to keep his gaze, to find what he assumed were her eyes on him.

By whatever force of nature he managed to keep his steps even and didn’t falter once to fall flat on his face. As he closed in, Yeonwoo had calmed down, or as much as he could if his lip catching on teeth was anything to go by. He’d reached her table and kept walking when he’d caught her bowing her head.

He paused, surprised at the action, and stood there stupidly in shock before returning the gesture.

Then scampering away from eyes he knew were watching his retreat. He couldn’t believe how much effort it took just to pass by one person, especially when the library was barren save for them.

After what felt like the longest walk of his life, face flushed and hands shaking, he turned left. Just in time to catch a whiff of something woody, and the slightest bit of sweet. He didn’t care to think about it too hard, as the moment he turned he was scurrying if not running to get away from his embarrassment.

✦•····•✦•····•✦

The thermostat let out pleasant beeps as he finished readjusting it, his reward being a little tune at the end that elicited a fond smile. Spinning around, his eyes scanned the small pocket of space he had been occupying.

The ‘room’ was hardly a room at all, and more a hole tucked into the side of the library. Nothing more than a tiny hideaway barely the size of a powder room that wasn’t of any use. He came here specifically when the temperature needed adjusting. Now that was done with, there was no reason for him to stay any longer. The air in the cramped space felt stale and devoid of any lingering scents, reminding him of things he would like to forget.

He veered towards and out of the exit, conveniently there was no door. The columns of the shelves gave him what seemed to be a warm welcome back as the amber glow of the lights shone above.

The lights.

He pulled out his phone for a quick peak of the time, humming as he turned back around to shut off the lights in the tiny space. He headed westward to start his regular cleanup.

Flicking off the computers he took some of the wipes on the front table to wipe off the desks, then did a brief sweep of the rooms before switching the lights, and locking the doors behind him. Making his way to do the same to the rooms waiting on the opposite side of the library.

Shelf after shelf passed by in quick succession as he walked, his steps bouncing along the unknown tune that was currently stuck in his head and refusing to leave him be.

He would be sure to bother Junhyuk about it once he’d gotten home. His roommate had the habit of blasting his unclothed taste in music around their shared rooms, and Yeonwoo was positive one of his horrible songs had wormed its way into his head and was currently wreaking havoc. He would have fun with that later.

The door creaked as he pulled it ajar, his hand releasing the knob to re-roll up the sleeves of his two sizes too big sweater that had decided to hang past and over the tips of his fingers. He kept the door open as he worked. Picking up wrappers and tiny objects from the most unorthodox places, one of which included the inside of one of the computers.

Yeonwoo wouldn’t ask how that happened.

With a brief flick of his wrist, he ran the sleeve of his sweater to soak up the accumulating sweat on his forehead, satisfied with his work. The room was spotless, a 180 from the mess it was minutes ago. Dusty, messy, and reeking of pheromones to be rid of once he’d sprayed a little air freshener that helped air out most of it. It used to be worse. So much worse, and he was beginning to understand why Eunchae was so desperate to have him work here. Why him though, out of every other omega, Yeonwoo still had yet to figure out.

He turned off the light and shut the door, kicking his leg into a skip, before making his way towards the stairs leading to the upper floor of the library. As the lingering feeling of sluggishness began to creep in, he reached for his phone and plugged in yellow earbuds, waiting for the Bluetooth to connect.

He’d already played one of the songs on his favorite playlist beforehand so he could dive straight into the music. He’d reached the base of the stairwell, taking his first step up, when the thoughts he’d labored to push down after that embarrassing incident regretfully came rushing back. With all their exaggerated specificity. 

He still couldn’t get over it. Something as simple as a nod and a brief look of what seemed to be a dark eye left him an embarrassing wreck. Not to mention a glimpse of a strong, well-defined, forearm. Yeonwoo chalked it up to the new influx of Omega hormones coursing through his system unrestrained… somewhat.

Halfway up the steps, the gods must have pitied him, (or cursed him) because music boomed in his ears, prompting a full-body flinch. He lost footing. Felt his world tilt. Almost fell backward but grabbed the railing with a vice grip. Catching himself last minute. Lashes fluttered rapidly. One foot on a higher step than the other. Yeonwoo quickly corrected himself. Hurriedly shoving his hand in his pocket to grab his phone and viciously mashing the side buttons. 

Yeonwoo let out a relieved sigh from the pits of his core when he reached the highest point of the flight of stairs. After that assault on his senses, it’s a wonder his ears weren’t ruined. Passing 3 shelves, and making his way to the small closet hidden behind the last bookshelf, he turned the doorknob to snatch up a broom. It was time to get to work.

With the music now at a comfortable volume, hoping to add a little more fun to his mundane task, he chose to play a little game with himself. The sweeps of the broom against the hardwood floors soon turned rhythmic and went along the beat of whichever song played in his ears. Quick and rushed when a fast song played, movements putting more strain on his arm muscles while being manageable. Or slow and more listless when a song with a softer melody played —giving himself some respite before it picked up again with an upbeat tune.

He found the monotonous task all the more enjoyable now. Cooled him and the thoughts waiting to burst to the forefront of his mind at the thinnest opening.

Thoughts Yeonwoo couldn't for the life of him, determine whether he liked or disliked. He wouldn’t think about it.

Sweeping had gone by in record time, and he didn’t know if it was the time crunch that prompted such a performance or the music in his ears. His eyes wandered around where he stood in between two shelves on the opposite side of where he previously remembered being. This spot seemed cleaner than the rest, and he attributed it to the fact that this area was the most closed-off space in the library. Despite being open for anyone to use.

The books here were barely touched by the usual patrons.

Yeonwoo would know since he was rigorous with inventory. One book, however, two actually, were gone. Reaching out to read the covers of the books around the two missing ones, he quickly understood that the topics of the books were based on alpha and omega studies. 

He placed the books back in their respective places. Double-checking that the authors were aligned properly, then picked up the long handle of the bucket like pale, before turning to make his way back to the broom closet and back downstairs. Now that he had, he lifted his head towards one of the clocks hanging on the wall, 30 minutes.

Yeonwoo nearly jumped, making haste as he ran to the stairwell, dread crawling along his skin. Despite the urgency of the situation, Yeonwoo didn't know why, but a few shelves along his way, he paused; sniffed the air, and turned.

The scent of rich, warm sandalwood: Faint, and mixed with an undertone he couldn’t quite name captured him as he went into one of the aisles. The one he hadn’t bothered to clean earlier, given it had appeared spotless. If he had known about this, though. He would have likely stayed here for the remainder of the time he had. 

Yeonwoo had never found other scents all that interesting, aside from using them to gouge emotions. Moreover, he never found anyone’s scent so overwhelming. So intoxicating. He inhaled, deeply, seeking out more sandalwood and notes of something just as captivating. Just a little sweeter. It pulled at him as he followed, reaching corners of the library even he hadn’t visited.

Sometimes when it was stronger, it enveloped and soothed him, lulling his brain and leaving him in a daze of sorts. Other times it would turn faint, almost disappearing.

It was one of those moments, the wave of disappointment that came with the loss of that intoxicating aroma that filled him with sudden clarity. The candle of warmth he followed snuffed out.

Leaving him just standing there. Cold. His eyes snapped open, only then realizing he’d closed them somewhere along the way in his impromptu game of chase.

Yeonwoo was stunned into silence.

Never before had he done such a thing. Many patrons came and went as he worked. Many with their scents starting to linger in certain areas of the library they frequented. None of them, however, made him follow their trail. Made him mourn the loss of something he had no concept of.

It must have been the new influx of omega pheromones.

A full-body shiver wrecked him, his hands quickly coming up to cover half his face in mortification. Cheeks flushed with color at the growing realization of what he’d just done.

Never before had he been more embarrassed of himself. For him to follow a scent this far into the reaches of the library? He'd heard of omega's getting scent drunk. He just never thought he'd be one of them. Yeonwoo had never been happier there was no one there to witness such an improper display.

What made it worse was he didn’t hate it. How shameful.

Turning he scolded himself before exiting the aisle. So imagine to his surprise, not long after that embarrassing incident he would take to his grave, maybe roll in it at his mortifying stunt. His eyes scanned the rows of seemingly endless shelves around him and to Yeonwoo’s horror, he was lost.

He was rendered speechless a second time, biting the inside of his cheek so hard he could almost taste the metallic liquid threatening to ooze out if he bit any harder. With how embarrassed and infuriated he was with himself, he might just do it.

Fingers brushed against soft denim, reaching into his pocket with a heaving sigh. He pulled out his phone and aggressively punched in the code before going to his messages and tapping one of the pined texts he’d made sure to keep.

Sadly, getting lost in the library for him wasn’t new. It wasn’t his fault the place was so unnecessarily big. 

So, to mediate the time it would take for him to find his way back to his desk. Ha Yejin and Eunchae both came together to make a customized map just for him so he could get back to his desk.

It took a while, but eventually, he was able to pinpoint where he was in the library and began to find his way back. Soft music played in his ears, he stopped to double-check he was making the right turns before picking up pace again.

Eventually, he was able to make it to the broom closet to place said broom inside, meaning the staircase was not far off.

Just as he thought the stairs were up ahead and as he took the first step down, a fast-paced rhythm played in his ears while he bounced on the tips of his toes down the stairs, a smile on his face. It was one of his favorites.

Yeonwoo was much more familiar with the first floor than the second, so he wasn’t as glued to his phone trying to find his way back to his desk. Reluctantly pausing the music he took out his earbuds, and looked around. He needed to get back to the chair that now called his name as he longed to rest, even if just for 15 min.

He checked the time displayed on his now locked screen, scratch that, 10 minutes. He wouldn’t be able to rest even just for a moment, would he?

Yeonwoo wouldn't mourn it too long because he’d finally gotten to his destination. The now-donning realization he would have to talk to that stranger to inform them he would be closing up soon was nearing. His hands suddenly clammy.

She sat, now having crossed one leg over the other, sleeves still rolled up and hands periodically turning the pages of her current read.

Air filled his lungs, chest expanding as he let the breath in then out. Trying to gather up as much courage he could muster now that he was all but one shelf away from the study area.

Courage gathered and ready, he was about to take a step forward, but something from the corner of his eye caught his attention. He took steps towards it. The bookshelf to his right pressed against the wall had something peeking out of one of the books on the middle shelf.

A glossy black screen reflects the light that hits it from above. He moved to pluck it out. Quickly realizing halfway through it was a phone, he hurried and snatched it up to bring it close. 

Yeonwoo inspected the object to promptly find it was dead, a pout forming on his lips. Pulling out his phone, he opened the calendar to remind himself that come Tuesday he should put up a sign of sorts to alert the patrons about the missing phone.

Lost and confused about how exactly to go about finding the owner, Yeonwoo was pulled out of his trance when that all-encompassing scent of sandalwood and an undertone he just couldn’t pinpoint took hold and overwhelmed his senses.

He didn’t have time to turn around and lay eyes on the person who’d had him running around the upper floor of the library like some foolish omega pup. He had never smelt someone that intrigued him before. And a large hand gripped his shoulder before he could turn to do so.

Yeonwoo froze.

“Excuse me?”

An Alpha.

The buzzing in his ears and immediate numbness that consumed his senses was all he could process. Increasing terror nipped at his toes to grab and plunge him into that bottomless well of hopelessness, he had not felt it in so long, but it came back with just as much familiarity and force. As if it never left.

Hey, Yeon Nyeon you miss me ~

He could not hear the voice calling out to him, the hand on his shoulder shaking him, shifting. They had moved a step towards him. 

He smacked the hand away, moving away and finding his back pressed against the wall. Somewhere, a voice similar to his told him he was cornering himself.

You ready for some fun?~

There was no reason for him to be scared. No one was here with him. He wasn’t here with him. It was just him… him, and a stranger.

I have a lot planned for you today, Yeon Nyeon~

The same stranger who now stood in front of him, as he clutched the phone, eyes fixed on the floor. Yeonwoo tried to breathe, but he couldn’t. Something clogged his airways. Wouldn’t let him get a lick of air and the place said stranger touched burned.

He barely registered them stepping closer. Bringing up his hand, palm forward, signaling for them to stop where they stood.

He tried to calm himself, though muffled as he could barely hear himself through the fog. What did Yeseul say to do when in times of distress? What did she say— Scents.

Yeseul told him to release comforting notes of his own to help calm himself.

He couldn’t.

He’d blocked them off.

S uch a pretty face like that, too bad you’re nothing but a beta tester~

Everything was fine seconds ago. He was fine seconds ago, and all it took was one brief touch to send it all crashing down. He could feel the tears threatening to fall as he closed in on himself and everything around him turned static.

Everything was shaking.

I can fix that though. What’d ya say, Yeon Nyeon?~

Could feel himself detaching.

Why not be my bitch~

He couldn’t breathe.

Who would have thought the class knot-hole is an omega after all!~

Breathe. Breathe. You idiot. BREATHE . Just breathe.

Something. He didn't know, but something was reaching him through the fog. Calling him through the haze. 

So he answered, desperate for something other than the cold.

It came to him in slow, deliberate soft waves. Smooth and velvety as it lingered a while. Getting him used to its presence before enveloping him whole in a warmth he vaguely remembered as he slipped back into himself. 

Sensation reawakened as his toes twitched. Legs came next as the numbing, cold tingle that locked them in place dissipated, and he stumbled. Feeling had not yet traveled to his upper body. Resulting in a tip in balance and Yeonwoo prepared to be met face-first with the cold hardwood.

Warmth surrounded him. The warmth of a person.

All his senses came rushing back, crashing into him all at once. Sight. Smell. Sound as the blood rushed to his ears. Touch. Touch came the moment he felt warm, large, secure arms holding him, making sure he didn’t fall.

Teary-ridden eyes looked up to meet stunningly dark ones. Almost black, deep purple, looking down at him, face blank, but eyes shone with what, if he looked close enough, would realize worry. That is if he wasn’t so mesmerized by how they pulled him in, dark as a starless sky, yet calming, warm.

Yeonwoo didn’t have time to monologue about this woman who’d saved him amid an embarrassing display of weakness. Simply because, as if he was hit by a 10-ton truck, he heaved in breath after breath, coughs sputtering between every other inhale. All he could smell was rich and warm sandalwood, along with that undertone he finally deduced.

Rose.

She smelled of sandalwood, of rose, and she reeked of Alpha.

Yeonwoo remembered what sent him into his panic in the first place, and pushed himself away from her hold. Tears falling from renewed honeydew eyes. Shame crashed down on him as he struggled to catch his breath. Only increasing 10-fold when the alpha released more of that scent to calm him. Silently telling him to calm down.

And Yeonwoo listened. Let himself breathe with slow, steady intakes of air. Inhaling more of that ever-growing intoxicating scent that had his knees weak and goosebumps take form.

A deep female voice surrounded him. Slow, careful instruction the alpha gave, making his head spin. She ran her hands up and down his back, fingers feather-like in their touch. Trying to comfort. Yeonwoo tried to steadily calm himself. The smooth voice telling him to breathe, though good in intention, did little to help. 

He was hot.

Knowing this wouldn't help, he shifted away from them. The warm touch was now gone, and he mourned it a little, before bringing his hands to his chest to feel the rhythmic beating of his heart.

His breathing soon stabilized as he pressed his head against the cool wall. Rise and fall of his chest more fluid and less aching as air mixed with soft notes of sandalwood and tints of rose providing all-encompassing warmth. Though that touch was gone.

After what felt like forever and no time at all, Yeonwoo breathed. Really breathed and wiped now-dried tear stains from red cheeks.

It was slow, but eventually he turned around. Facing the person he now deemed his savior. Yeonwoo knew he shouldn’t, but he was regretful he’d chosen today to start using scent blockers again. Junhyuk was right.

He opened his mouth to apologize for his display, “I-I’m Sorr-”

“Are you okay?”

The voice was deep yet warm and sultry, just as rich as her scent that still refused to leave him. Still supplying comforting notes of sandalwood. Yeonwoo honestly didn’t know if he hated it as much as he usually did or if he liked it, and wanted more. That alone terrified him.

She took a step forward, and Yeonwoo flinched, head still hung low. He couldn’t look at her. Not after that shameful display. He didn’t sense any movement from her after that. Yeonwoo didn’t know whether to be relieved or terrified of that.

“Are you okay?” She asked again, having taken a step back. Her tone changed from a request to a demand, her voice hinting she was concerned.

Seconds, minutes passed, he fiddled with his thumbs before he began the process of gathering his energy to respond. He was tired. More so than before. Slowly lifting his gaze to meet hers, those deep eyes bored into him. As if she could see through him, and his back felt hot.

He briefly saw a flicker of concern, only for it to shift when she looked down at his hands. Yeonwoo looked down himself to realize he’d been picking at his nails, a habit of his, and brought them to his sides to hopefully ease the concern of this alpha whose name he didn’t even know. The sullen silence stretched between them, thread-thin and fragile.

“I– I’m fine,” He managed to stutter after who knows how long. Fingers twitching to pick at his nails once more but stopped when he could have sworn her eyes narrowed at him. The only sound he could discern was the erratic drumming of his heartbeat. He wished he could be devoured by it.

The alpha looked at him expression neutral but clearly unconvinced by the blatant lie.

“You couldn’t breathe for almost 5 minutes, you’re not fine.” She told him, and Yeonwoo cringed.

He bowed his head, “I’m really fine. Sorr-sorry for the trouble.”

When he’d raised his head to look at her, he saw nothing once more. Honey eyes found his shoes more interesting.

“You were clearly not ok, so I helped…. it was my fault for scaring—”

“No, no” He shook his head. “It wasn’t your fault I’m just…” Stupid.

She looked him up and down and Yeonwoo could feel his cheeks warm, “You apologize a lot, don’t you.”

It wasn’t a question. It was a fact, and he didn’t know what to say because it was true. Junhyuk always told him to stop, but he never could, so he didn’t say anything at all.

The alpha turned to bend down and pick up the phone Yeonwoo only now realized he dropped and took slow, very slow, steps towards him to present it to him.

“Here.”

He looked down at the phone and took it from her, plastering on his best smile, “Did you need something?”

She eyed him, before answering, “I want to check out before closing hours.”

Yeonwoo looked around, to distract from his rising blush, and snatched his phone off one of the gaps on the shelves to look at the time. They were past closing time. 

Gasping, the familiar shame crept into him once more, only for him to regain his composure when that scent enveloped him again. He looked up, hands close to his chest, to find she’d taken a step closer.

“Is that a yes… or.”

Yeonwoo flushed, “Yes! Plea– Please follow me.” He spun around and walked, ears aflame.

The walk back was quick. The alpha, followed him, three steps behind him the whole time. Though Yeonwoo could feel her… observant gaze trailing every part of him on the way. It burned. Such treatment, Yeonwoo had read, was typical of alphas.

Alphas must keep their distance at all times from an unmated omega, lest there is a situation that needs intervention. He’d never gotten such treatment, given he hadn’t been an omega for that long, but it was much appreciated after that embarrassing and unbecoming display he showed. 

Yeonwoo told her to wait at the front of the desk while he went around and opened the gate in a hurry. Not even bothering to close it, and sped to the desk. Once he got behind the desk, some nerves from earlier dissipated a little. He looked up. Now that he could get a better look at her. He couldn't keep from pausing for a second. Really looking at her.

Glasses were long gone, leaving nothing but chocolate brown hair to frame her features, it was the first time Yeonwoo realized… she was beautiful.

His panic had rendered him unable to process it, but now that he had calmed significantly. 

She was stunning. 

A sharp jawline that accentuated high cheekbones, 80 parts handsome 20 parts beautiful. A pointed chin that added to her already striking features, fit for a noble. Perfectly symmetrical, straight nose so well-placed and proportioned along her face, Yeonwoo couldn’t help but follow the trail it left, up to meet eyes that he found were overlooking him, finally meeting.

Those eyes. Deep, bordering black, purple that reminded him of starless nights and the darkest of purple hydrangeas. They pulled him in, not letting him go as her musky, warm scent encompassed him, pulling him in further. The epitome of an Alpha.

She places the books on the table, snapping him out of his daze. He fought back another blush, thankfully succeeding as he woke up the computer for it to display the screen he was last on. It didn’t take long for him as he clicked around and typed a few things in for the application to load and show him the screen that would allow him to do his work.

Clearing his throat, Yeonwoo reached out a hand, “Your —Your library card please?”

His voice trembled as she took one last sweep of her eyes over him to reach into her pocket.

She placed it into his palm seconds later, her finger brushing against the bottom of his palm. Dangerously close to the scent gland just underneath the protective covering on his wrist. Yeonwoo sucked in a breath.

He quickly swiped the card, the machine letting out a beep that did little to help wake him from the alpha scent-induced haze she caused. Her scent still lingered around him. It was worst that he didn’t hate it. A shuddered breath escaped him when she reached over to retrieve the card, holding his gaze as she flicked her wrist to graze the top of that very covering.

Yeonwoo had never been more aware of another person, much less an alpha. He didn't know whether he wanted to slap the hand away or urge it to give him more.

He could feel her eyes watching, observing every movement as he passed her books under the scanner with trembling hands, though all he felt was warm. All-encompassing, all surrounding warmth as his cheeks flamed, and his chest rose and fell. Trying to breathe but now for an entirely different reason.

Yeonwoo would have normally been in tears by now. So how was this alpha different?

He quickly grabbed a bag from the half-empty dispenser under the computer, bagging her books and offering it to her with both hands.

He looked her in the eyes, only to find she was doing the same, piercing gaze of starless midnight sending shivers down his spine.

“I- I'm sorry for the trouble I caused. I hope- I hope you'll give the library another chance… I'll do better next time.”

The phrases Eunchae hammered into him to say whenever a customer left was the farthest from his mind as the sandalwood scent mixed with more rose, turning the slightest ting of sweet that Yeonwoo almost didn’t catch it.

Reaching over, the alpha carefully took the books from him, smooth, large hands engulfing his as they moved to take the bag. Lingered, and only increased his blush.

How indecent.

Bag at her side, Yeonwoo’s hands moved to rest behind his back in an attempt to hide the warmth he was sure had traveled from his neck to the tips of his fingers.

Her eyes met his. Making sure to trail his every feature before she spoke, that voice just as if not more intoxicating than her scent, sent his goose bumps alight, “I’ll be sure to.”

She held his gaze for a moment longer. Tension that hung in the air between them, strung tight like a fragile thread, ready to snap at any moment. He broke that thread when dipping his head in thanks for her patronage. Just as he raised it to look up again, she turned.

The slightest, blink and you’ll miss it smile donned her face before she fully turned away from him, and walked out the door. The chime of the door closing clearing his foggy mind.

He blinked, sandalwood still surrounded and sending his thoughts into a frenzy, her earlier words replaying in his mind, 'I'll be sure too.' 

Yeonwoo flushed as he sank into his chair, the intoxicating scent and softness surrounding him making it worse. Warm hands that caressed his back, engulfing his hands in their own, leaving her scent on them. He didn't know whether her coming back excited or terrified him.

Notes:

Hope you enjoyed that first chapter as much as I enjoyed writing it.

Comments are always appreciated and I love getting them so don't be shy about sharing your thoughts. As long as there respectful I don't mind at all.

This is an ongoing work and I will be updating it. I already have the outline for the story ready to go writing it is the next part.

I hope you'll all enjoy the journey of Yeonsol falling in love again that I've crafted and go insane over them as much as I do.

->->->Chapter 2<-<-<-

[skiesficz]

Chapter 1 - Blossoms Bloom ‧₊˚⊹

jake x reader/jungwon x reader

category: mini-series, fluff, angst

tws: alcohol, mentions of toxic relationships and swearing

summary: After studying hard and getting into the same university as Jake, your relationship blossoms and flourishes. Little did you know that Jake, an ex who moves back to Korea and a puppy-like co-worker, will shift that peace and turn everything upside down. 

a/n: Ugh, I really hope I'm doing the series justice. Although, there will be differences in what I write since I can't literally copy the plot because that would be stealing! I hope it does have the general flow of the manhwa/show lmaoooo, also, this chapter was written instead of an essay on the causes of the 1917 Russian Revolution.

Tonight was the night; you were ready and prepared to confess to the guy who had captured your attention for years. You put on your prettiest dress and straighten your hair before heading to the restaurant Jake had booked “So, y/n your new office job is really paying you well now” Jake asks as he sips at the glass of wine on the perfectly set table. You and Jake go way back and have plenty of history together, after almost failing everything in high school and with tutoring costs being too expensive to keep up with. After hearing about your wish to go to the same university as him, Jake picked you up and helped you succeed and pass your exams. Without him, you’d be stuck with your family and a father hopelessly addicted to gambling. “Yeah, it pays pretty well, being the assistant manager and all, I can treat you to something someday, I feel bad just receiving from you all the time after all these years,” you say as you tuck a couple of stray strands of hair behind your ear. “You know y/n, I really don’t mind giving to you all the time, it’s all worth it,” Jake says softly. In the moment of comfortable and soft silence, your phone buzzes in your pocket. It was your dad again, he always begged you for money knowing you’d give it to him. You sigh out and silence your phone and shove it into your bag. “Sorry about that, it was my father again,” you say softly as Jake gives you a gentle and sympathetic smile. “Please don’t apologize, I know how hard you work to provide for them,” he says softly. Now was the perfect time, you stared at the letter and little gift you had prepared for him, but before you even touched the little wrapped box, his face turned more solemn. “Jay, he’s thinking of coming back to Korea.” Your eyes widen in shock. “R... Really? I thought he was staying over in the US” you ask in a meek tone. Jay was Jake's ex-boyfriend, the history between you three was complicated and when he left you thought it had settled. “Are you planning on reconciling with him or what?” you ask, your voice coming out as barely a whisper. He shakes his head. You sigh out in relief, “I’m glad”. You both finish your meal and take a stroll out into the fresh night air. After drinking a little too much on your little dinner with Jake, you stumble around and get a little sappy. “Woah tiger, be careful on those heels,” he says with a little chuckle and sits you down on a bench. You sigh out and gently hold his arm, to which he looks at you with widened eyes. “Please don’t go back to Jay, please don’t date him, please don’t put yourself through that again,” you say in a hushed panic, your alcohol-flushed face only made the whole ordeal more entertaining. Jake knelt in front of you and gently ran his hand through your hair to fix a strand that went out of place. “I won't, y/n please don’t worry.” He says softly. “Let's get you home, okay?” he asks as he helps you back onto your feet and walks you to your apartment. When you arrive, he gently lays you down on your bed and tucks you in. “Get some rest y/n, I'll call you tomorrow to see how you are, also...” he says glancing down to your wrist “Wear that bracelet I gave you.” You reach out and grab his hand to have him stay with you. He gently takes your hand and tucks it under your blanket before leaving.

The next day, you wake up and despite being hungover, get ready for work. You pick up a little box with a pearl bracelet with a dangly heart charm with a little heart-shaped diamond in it. You gently open the box and carefully slip the bracelet onto your wrist. Jake had got you that bracelet for getting into university with him. You had never worn it just in case it got damaged or lost, but since he asked, who were you to say no! You slip your jacket on and head out the door messaging Jake good morning. As you stroll off to work while on your phone, you don't see an electric scooter zooming towards you. When you looked up and finally noticed it, it was too late to move. “Hey miss! Watch out the way” A male voice calls out to you before you get pushed out of the way. “Are you okay?” The guy asked, he had wide dark eyes and a sweet-looking face, like a puppy. You check yourself over and notice the diamond on your bracelet is scratched. “Hey! What the hell!? Why did you shove me? My bracelet is broken!” You scold the guy whose eyes are filled with confusion. “Huh? I helped you! You would’ve been hurt! I can just buy you a new bracelet or pay for the repairs” The soft-spoken guy tried to yell back, the yelling sounding more like an adult gently parenting a child. “You should be saying thank you since I helped you!” “That bracelet meant so much to me! You broke it! You should be more careful!” You yell back before getting up and walking off. “How rude!” The puppy-faced guy said before also walking away. You arrive at your work and sit down at your desk and sigh out, remembering you’d have a partner, another assistant manager to help you out. Just as the new assistant manager walks in your face drops. It was the stupid puppy guy! “Everyone, this is the second assistant manager that will be working alongside Miss l/n, would you like to introduce yourself?” your manager says before turning to the puppy-faced boy who hadn’t noticed you yet. “My name is Yang Jungwon, I'm excited to work hard with you all, let's get along!” He said cheerily before locking eyes with you. This project and all future ones will be hell you thought to yourself before he came and took his seat beside you. “I know we didn’t get off to the best start huh...” He says in a sweet yet slightly nervous tone. “Let's start over”. Not wanting to put up with this crap first thing in the morning, you pick up a pile of papers and hand it to him. “You’re an ace right? Read over these plan sheets and then get back to me on it, and I expect since you're the ace, you won't need help,” You said before standing up “ I have a meeting to attend to,” you say before going off to your meeting, leaving Jungwon by himself, his confused puppy eyes following you as you left. 

thank you for reading!! (˶˃ ᵕ ˂˶)

masterlist here .ᐟ.ᐟ

series list here .ᐟ.ᐟ

requests: closed ❤️

[randomarchivedthoughts]

Fanfiction #3

Fandom : Death is the only ending for the villainess

”In This Hell”

==================

By meowrina on AO3

°°°°°

History books said that there was once a fake daughter of a certain Duke. On her coming-of-age celebration, she was murdered and died in the arms of her lover, the Crown Prince. Drowned in grief, the Crown Prince became mad and killed the Imperial Family. But what history books didn't know, he was sent back in time to meet his beloved again.

°°°°°

▪︎Status : Completed

▪︎Length : 29K Word / 10 Chapters

Rate : 8/10 “I’m a sucker for romance and happy endings, literally those two, just falling in love again and again and I’m so ready to watch that happen again a thousands times, all the love for his highness Callisto Regis 💛❤️and Penelope Ekhart 🩷💚”

[lxdymoon0357]

I’m seeing requests are open, craving Callisto (from Death is the only ending for the Villainess or Villains are destined to die) X reader. Prompt; they are in a relationship for years, and it’s healthy as it can be, and in healthy relationships arguments are bound to happen no? One day they have an argument that escalates so much that the reader cries, and this is the first time that Callisto witnesses them cry ever. Feel free to range this from tears sliding down the cheeks or full on bawling, but how would Callisto react to seeing his beloved cry for the very first time in an argument in a relationship they have been in for years?

(Okay, now I'm too sure if this came out well....But it's pretty short, kinda upset about that)

© Writing belongs to me, Lxdymoon0357. Do not plagiarize, but reblogging, liking and commenting is deeply appreciated.

The heart tears apart...

...They say guilt is like rust- it is slow...but powerful and it eats the person alive...How was Callisto suppose to realize that saying was true until your cries fell on deaf ears...? This was not what he thought was result in tonight's anger...And it was all his fault...

He had been upset all day after someone spoke ill of your relationship, saying you're too good for him or he's too wild or he's not deserving of it...He's proud of his achievements, including achieving your love, but sometimes when chronic words are repeated...

They're like tiny pebbles, they don't hurt but there is one stone once in a while which when thrown bleeds into the skin...and that's what happens with vile words of stupid nobles who speak the same thing over and over again...Suddenly he didn't like your relationship for a second, not because of you...Because of himself, he felt angry as his mind spoke that he was tying you down, that he was not worthy of this and that there was someone better for you...

"WHAT DON'T YOU REALIZE, IT'S YOUR UTTER FAULT THAT I DON'T LIKE BEING WITH YOU ANYMORE?!" He yelled angrily, his eyes seeing red

......Was that really him? The one who fell down on his knees in a dying breath when he was away form you for too long, and Callisto didn't realize what he said until it fell in your ears and tears slipped down your cheeks..

Those eyes whom he always wanted to be filled with happiness, the same face he wanted to glow with beauty, smiles and laughter were now covered in tears because of him and suddenly inside him broke as he stopped in between his words, frozen..

You staring down on the ground with tears down your cheeks as he stopped his words, absolutely torn apart,

"Baby-I...I."

he couldn't say anything as he walked closer, he had never seen you cry and he knows why he doesn't let you even cry cause the sight was mentally painful to make him cry on his own as he walked a bit close, taking a hold of your wrist of the hand you were using to rub your eyes harshly to wipe the tears away.

You tried to pull away, but his grip on your wrist was tight as he pulled you in a tight hug, hiding your face in his chest, letting your cry ins expensive tuxedo, inhaling his cologne to calm yourself, clinging to him...

You would have never expected an argument to end with this, as he gently cried in your neck as he sat down and picked you up, pulling him on your lap, apologizing over and over in your skin.

You can't deny, it felt bad...but seeing him upset felt even worse, as you softly ran your fingers through his golden-blonde hair, as if threaded with the purest gold in this world...with the shine of a sun, such a bright smile he had..how sad most people couldn't see it, you did...it was gorgeous and so his sadness hurts just as bad as his anger..

You softly pulled his face up and kissed him, maybe you'll try to fix this again, how gorgeous he was..you couldn't deny his love...and you didn't mind his anger directed at you, even if heart tears apart, he fixed it with all he had..

[yuriisclumsy]

hii!! can I request cale with a s/o who's high on anaesthesia? like they see cale for the first time, and they're already rambling about how pretty he is– only to find out they're married!! to him!! she tells everyone (who is willing to listen) about her pretty husband and how she's lucky to have him^^ thank youu

We’re…Married?

[Authors Note]: Hi guys! I'm back into making Cale x Reader request! At least for the ones I have on my inbox, until I get out of the authors block I have for my Genshin series. PS. This request is back from July...

𝚆𝚘𝚛𝚍 𝙲𝚘𝚞𝚗𝚝: 735

»»►AWWWEE this is adorable. I want to keep it in a box and bury it 7 feet underneath.

»»►Okay, for this, I want it to stay in the fantasy setting since I don’t really like writing modern AUs. So, there will be some kind of herb that is used that has the same effect as anesthesia.

»»►As for why she had to take it. Let us say she had to get surgery for a broken bone she fractured because she ran and fell off a hill. Don’t ask me how this happened, because I don’t know either.

The sun’s rays shine through curtains, bringing light to the already dim room. They softly hit the face of a red-head that had fallen asleep on a chair instead of his warm bed.

The reason he hadn’t slept in his bed was for one small, lovable–his words not mine–dork he had grown to love; his wife: You.

And the only red-head who was insane enough to marry you was none other than Cale Hanituse.

Cale stared at your resting face with a neutral face. What else could he do, other than wait for his lovely wife to wake up?

Unbelievable… The moment I look away, she’s gone and clumsily stumbled down a mountain and off a cliff. Honestly, when will I get some rest from this girl? the man thought as he closed his eyes, getting irked at the memory of you falling off the cliff for the third time.

It was getting repetitive…and annoying.

“Hmmgh…” the sound of sheets shuffling made him open his eyes to see the movement.

“[Name]?” asked Cale. “Are you awake?” He gently leaned towards you to check. His hand moved away the messy hair on your forehead to get a better look. You slowly open your eyelids and see a handsome young man touching you.

“You’re awake… Took you long enough,” Cale said, still combing your hair straight.

You pushed his hand away. “..Don’T tOucH mE…I haVe a HusBaND…” you say with a growly voice.

Clearly, the herb that was used to sedate you was still in your system.

“[Name], stop. You’re still delirious and can’t differentiate what-for-what,” Cale tried to reason with you. But everyone knows that you can’t debate with someone that truly isn’t here.

“nO! yUO aRe An ImPOsTeR..!” You semi-yelled at him. “WhErE iS my HusBanD, yOu tHieF!”

Cale sighted at your idiocy. He found the way you argued rather adorable... Ahh, that’s beside the point!

“[Name],” he grabbed you by the shoulders to ground you as you squirmed, “I am your husband.”

“Wu-huh?” Your anger was now replaced with confusion and a stupid expression. “Whut?”

“I’m your husband,” Cale repeated. “The man you swore to be with the rest of your life, remember?”

“HUuuhhh??” The stupid expression you wore was now filled with reds. “We’Re…mArRieD?”

“Yes. Look,” he made you look at both your hands that had the wedding bands. “See? Married. For all of eternity.”

“..ThAt’S A LooOoNg tIMe…”

“I know,” Cale nodded at your comment, “do you…like the sound of that?” He shouldn't be asking this, in case the answer he hears isn't something he wanted to hear from you, but he had to. Curiosity dug deep within his heart.

You remained silent. This only printed Cale to regret his question. He’ll need to live with this for the rest of his life now.

“You don’t have to answer tha—”

“I do…”

Cale’s eyes widened. “What was that? Sorry, I couldn’t hear…” He had to make sure he heard right.

“I sAid…” you grabbed him by either side of his face and brought him closer to your face, “I. DO.”

He stared at you for a second before smiling, and then laughing at your antics. “Hehehe… I get, I get it…” Cale grabbed both your arms. “You need rest. Especially after the surgery on your left arm.”

“Surgery…?” You slowly ask, then your gaze follows his gaze at the arm he mentioned and loudly gasp, “WHAT IS THIS?”

There was a cast on the arm he said there was a surgery for.

Cale looked a bit confused. “Did you not realize there was a cast on your arm? [Name], how unaware can you be?” he flicked your forehead.

“OW–”

“Now, down you go. Off to the land of dreams,” he helped you get comfy in bed. “I’ll wake you up when dinner breakfast is ready, it’s still early in the morning.”

“Kay…” you yawned, ready to go back to the dream you left. “Night…”

“Good night…” Cale got back to lay in the chair he had slept all night in.

He snatched the blanket that had fallen off of him, and wrapped himself with it. As he was ready to take a quick nap before breakfast, he heard your voice creep up in the silence.

“..Cale��?”

“Yes?”

“I love you,” you say before falling asleep.

“...” he looked at your peaceful face and cracked a small smile, he whispered, “I love you too…”

Fin

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[imperialsiyo]

︙🌺 A SWEET DAY IN THE PALACE 🌺︙

➢ ﹒ ⊹ ₊ ˚ word count: 2,337

➢ ﹒ ⊹ ₊ ˚ post content: kissing, flirting, teasing, eating, wholesome, fluff, fxm, canon pairing, etc.

➢ ﹒ ⊹ ₊ ˚ summary: It's White Day in the Hwadam Empire, a day where lovers share gifts and spend time together. And there's only one woman within the empire that His Majesty wants to spend this day with.

Bayan sat cross-legged under the shaded pavilion, her black robes pooling around her as she studied the assortment of colorful candies scattered on the lacquered table. Her sharp eyes narrowed as she picked up a translucent red one, holding it to the light like it was a gemstone with some hidden curse inside.

"So... this is food?" she muttered under her breath, doubtful.

Across from her, Emperor Dhan leaned back gracefully against a wooden pillar, one arm resting casually on his bent knee. His crimson robes shimmered like embers in the afternoon sun, but it was his gaze—burning, unwavering—that made Bayan fidget.

“Candies,” he corrected with a faint smile. “You eat them for pleasure, not sustenance.”

Bayan’s lips pressed into a skeptical line. She sniffed the candy cautiously. "Feels suspicious. You sure no one slipped poison in these?"

Dhan’s brow arched. “Do you truly think I would give you poisoned sweets?”

Her expression remained deadpan. “You say that like people haven’t tried worse.”

A low chuckle rumbled from him. “Fair point. But today is different.”

Bayan squinted at him. There it was—one of those cryptic things he always said when he was about to do something outlandishly imperial. “Different how?”

Instead of answering right away, Dhan reached forward, his long fingers plucking a pink candy from the pile. He held it between them, the movement oddly intimate. “Today is a day where a man shows his appreciation for someone special by giving them sweets.”

Her brows shot up. “You’re joking.”

He didn’t flinch. “I’m not.”

Bayan blinked at him, utterly perplexed. “So... you’re telling me there's a whole day dedicated to giving someone candy just because you like them?”

“That’s correct.”

A loud snort escaped her before she could stop it. “That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. Who comes up with this stuff? Why not give rice or meat—something practical?”

Dhan’s lips curved into a knowing smile. “Not everything has to be practical, Bayan. Sweets symbolize joy. Indulgence. Happiness.” His voice lowered slightly. “Sometimes, it’s good to simply cherish the sweetness in life.”

She popped the red candy into her mouth, chewing thoughtfully. The syrupy sweetness spread across her tongue, and she had to admit—it was pretty good. Still weird, though.

“So... this is what lovers do?” she asked around the candy, her words muffled.

Dhan’s gaze darkened slightly, the flicker of amusement in his eyes giving way to something deeper. He leaned forward, closing the distance between them. “Yes. That’s exactly what it is.”

Bayan’s chewing slowed. Her pulse quickened under his steady gaze, the heat of it wrapping around her like a warm cloak. She was used to his affections by now—the way he sought her out despite the countless concubines vying for his attention, the way his touch lingered longer than it should—but today felt... different.

“Wait,” she said, swallowing hard. “If this is a lovers’ thing, doesn’t that mean I’m supposed to give you something too?”

Dhan tilted his head, his expression thoughtful. “Is that an offer?”

Her eyes darted to the pile of candies. She grimaced. “I mean... I could share these. But they’re really good, so maybe just one.”

His laughter was low and rich, filling the pavilion. “Then I’ll cherish that one as the sweetest gift of all.”

Bayan rolled her eyes, though her lips twitched with a reluctant smile. “You’re ridiculous.”

“And yet,” he murmured, brushing his thumb across her cheek, “you’re still here.”

Her heart stumbled, but she leaned into his touch without thinking. His hand was warm, grounding. It was moments like these—when he stripped away the weight of the crown and simply looked at her like she was his entire world—that left her breathless.

She cleared her throat, trying to shake off the warmth creeping up her neck. “You know, if the other concubines see you doting on me like this, they’re going to lose their minds.”

Dhan’s eyes gleamed with quiet amusement. “Let them.”

Bayan snorted. “You really don’t care, do you?”

“I care about you,” he said simply.

Her breath caught. She wasn’t used to such direct words. In Ganak Village, affection was a rare commodity, twisted by fear and hatred. And yet here he was—an emperor of all people—telling her that she mattered.

“Okay, okay,” she said quickly, trying to deflect. “No need to get all mushy.”

Dhan smiled knowingly but didn’t press further. Instead, he reached for another candy, holding it to her lips. “Here.”

She blinked. “I can feed myself, you know.”

“Humor me.”

With a sigh, she let him place the candy in her mouth, the sweetness melting on her tongue. His gaze never wavered, and for once, Bayan didn’t look away.

Maybe, she thought, there was something to this whole candy thing after all.

︙🌺 A SECRET PROJECT 🌺︙

The warmth of the afternoon had faded into the soft embrace of twilight. Bayan stood near her writing table, chewing her lip as she stared at the blank parchment in front of her. The flickering lantern cast long shadows across the room, but none loomed as daunting as the task she'd foolishly decided on.

A gift for His Majesty.

"What was I thinking?" she muttered, gripping her brush a little too tightly. "Poetry. Seriously? Who do I think I am, some palace scholar?"

Her first instinct had been to cook something—at least she knew her way around a fire and a knife. But food felt too ordinary, and after his thoughtful gestures today, she wanted to give him something meaningful. A poem had seemed like a brilliant idea in the heat of the moment. Now, staring down at the empty parchment, it felt like the worst decision she'd ever made.

"Just words, Bayan. You know words. You yell them at people all the time," she muttered to herself.

Her gaze flickered to the pile of scrolls on the corner of the table—doctrines, historical records, and even poetry collections that Emperor Dhan had let her read as part of her lessons. Well, "let" might be too kind a word. More like ordered her to read. Still, there had been some verses tucked between the dry records. Flowery, elegant things about love and seasons and cherry blossoms.

She grimaced. "Great. Now I just have to not embarrass myself completely."

Her brush hovered over the parchment as she tried to recall the structure of one of the poems she'd read. The characters blurred in her mind, some of them still stubbornly foreign despite her improving literacy. She'd gotten better, sure, but Korean writing was still a beast she hadn't fully tamed.

"Okay, okay. Keep it simple," she muttered. "It’s not about being perfect. It’s about the thought, right?"

Even as she said it, she could practically hear Emperor Dhan's amused voice in her head: "Is that your excuse for sloppy work, Bayan?"

She scowled at the imaginary version of him. "Shut up."

Determined, she dipped her brush into the ink and started writing. Her strokes were shaky, uneven, but she pressed on.

The sun burns red, yet not as fierce as you.

Your gaze a flame, warming my strange heart.

A single ember, unyielding.

Bayan paused, frowning. Did that sound too cheesy? Too dramatic? She wrinkled her nose but decided to leave it. Dhan would probably find a way to tease her about it no matter what she wrote.

After a few more lines, she leaned back, surveying her work. It wasn’t great—heck, it wasn’t even good—but it was hers. That had to count for something.

The door creaked slightly, and her heart leapt into her throat.

"Bayan?"

She panicked, frantically slapping the parchment down on the table and throwing herself over it as though it were a top-secret battle strategy.

Emperor Dhan's silhouette filled the doorway, his crimson robes catching the lantern light. His expression was amused, as though he knew exactly what she was up to.

“What are you doing?” he asked, stepping inside.

“Nothing!” she blurted, too quickly.

His brows rose. “Really?”

“Yes.” She shifted awkwardly, still shielding the parchment with her body. “Totally normal concubine stuff. Sitting. Thinking. Breathing.”

He chuckled, the sound low and warm. “You’re a terrible liar.”

“I’m not lying,” she insisted, though her face was heating up faster than a cookfire.

Dhan’s gaze flickered to the corner of the parchment peeking out from under her arm. His lips curved into a wicked smile.

“Ah,” he said slowly. “A secret project?”

Her eyes widened. “Don’t even think about it.”

He took a step closer, clearly enjoying himself. “Why so protective? Is it a gift for me?”

“No!”

His grin widened. “You’re a worse liar than I thought.”

Before he could get any closer, she scrambled to her feet, clutching the parchment to her chest. “If you sneak a peek, I swear I’ll—I'll—uh...”

“You’ll what?” he challenged, amusement dancing in his eyes.

She glared at him. “I’ll... not finish it, that’s what!”

Dhan laughed, the sound rich and genuine. “Fine, fine. I’ll wait. But it better be worth the suspense.”

Bayan huffed, her heart racing. “It will be. Maybe.”

He gave her a lingering look before turning toward the door. “I look forward to it, then.”

As he left, Bayan let out a breath she hadn’t realized she was holding. Her hands trembled slightly, but she clutched the parchment tighter, determination flickering back to life.

“You’re not sneaking a peek,” she muttered under her breath. “Not until it’s perfect.”

With renewed focus, she sat back down, her brush steady this time. She was going to finish this poem—even if it killed her.

︙🌺 THE POEM 🌺︙

It was a crisp morning, and Emperor Dhan's office was filled with the low scratch of brushes against parchment as his two secretaries worked diligently. Scrolls were spread across the wide lacquered desk, along with reports from the provinces and imperial decrees awaiting the emperor’s seal.

Dhan, seated at the center of it all, exuded his usual air of calm authority, his burning red gaze scanning through a report. Even amidst the quiet industriousness, there was an underlying tension—the empire waited for no man, not even its ruler.

Then came the clatter of hurried footsteps.

Before the secretaries could react, the doors burst open with enough force to rattle the hinges. Bayan strode in, her black robes swishing around her legs, hair slightly wild, and cheeks flushed with determination.

"Your Majesty!" she declared.

Both secretaries froze, their brushes suspended mid-stroke. One of them opened his mouth, probably to remind her of decorum, but she was already moving—straight toward the emperor.

Dhan’s lips curved into a slow, knowing smile.

"Bayan," he greeted, amusement flickering in his eyes. "To what do I owe this—"

Before he could finish, she plopped herself right onto his lap, her weight settling against him without hesitation. His hands instinctively moved to steady her, one resting on her waist.

The secretaries exchanged wide-eyed glances, their faces a mixture of shock and confusion. This was not standard palace behavior.

"Carry on," Dhan said smoothly, waving a hand at them.

They hastily returned to their work, though their ears were undoubtedly straining to catch every word.

Bayan, oblivious to the scandalized atmosphere she'd created, fished a slightly crumpled parchment from the folds of her robe. Her short, stubby fingers—smudged with ink—clutched it tightly, and her bitten-down nails bore the evidence of nervous chewing.

"I made this for you," she announced, thrusting the parchment toward him.

Dhan arched a brow. "Oh? Is this the mysterious project you've been hiding from me?"

"Yes. And don't laugh," she warned, her blue eyes narrowing. "I worked really hard on it."

His gaze softened. "I would never laugh at you, Bayan."

She hesitated, then placed the parchment in his hand. Her heart thumped loudly in her chest as he unfolded it, his expression growing focused. The ink was a little smudged in places, and her writing was uneven, but the effort was undeniable.

The sun burns red, yet not as fierce as you,

Your gaze a flame, warming my strange heart.

A single ember, unyielding,

And I am drawn like dry wood,

Eager for the blaze.

Your words linger like smoke,

Weaving through my thoughts even in sleep,

Stirring restless dreams where no shadows dare dwell.

I would chase that light forever,

If it meant never returning to darkness.

So I offer these humble words,

Woven from ink and heart,

In the hope they can carry even a fraction

Of what burns quietly inside me.

Dhan's thumb brushed over the parchment as he read the words again, slower this time. His expression shifted—no amusement, no teasing. Just quiet, genuine appreciation.

"You wrote this," he said softly.

Bayan fidgeted, her face heating up. "Well... yeah. I mean, it's not great or anything, but—"

"It's beautiful," he interrupted, his voice firm.

Her eyes widened. "Really?"

He nodded, his gaze never leaving hers. "You have a gift, Bayan. This is... meaningful."

Her breath caught in her throat. She'd expected teasing, maybe a playful remark about her messy handwriting. But this—this sincerity was almost too much to handle.

She tried to play it off with a laugh. "Well, I figured you do all these fancy things for me, so I should at least try to do something for you."

Dhan's grip on her waist tightened slightly. "You already give me more than you know."

Bayan's throat felt tight, and she looked away, pretending to brush a non-existent speck of dust off her robe. "Okay, okay, enough of that serious talk. You're making it weird."

He chuckled, the sound low and warm. "As you wish."

Before she could react, he pressed a kiss to her temple, lingering just long enough to make her heart race.

"Thank you for this," he murmured against her skin.

Bayan swallowed hard, fighting the sudden urge to melt into a puddle on the floor. "Yeah, well... you're welcome, I guess."

Behind them, the secretaries exchanged furtive glances, clearly bewildered by the scene unfolding before them. But neither Bayan nor Dhan paid them any mind.

This moment was theirs, ink-smudged hands and all.

[belovedivies]

along the wind (bodyguard!peter x f!reader)

・゜・summary: Peter has made his way to the top by defying the odds his whole life; barely anything fazes him at this point. Yet when a glimpse of normalcy comes into his life in the form of a girl whose presence he initially apathizes, the crack in the Apostle’s stoicism starts to show.゜・* ・゜・tags: reader-insert, pre-canon, pre-rejuvenated peter, slice of life, fluff, slow burn, eventual romance, (my poor) attempt at humor, friends to lovers, typical-canon violence (mostly referenced cuz i suck at writing fight scenes)゜・* ・゜・notes: this work has multiple chapters! also cross-posted on my ao3 <3 title is from a song called "fly away" by jang yoon ju.゜・*

chapter 1: white strawberry and mint. ・゜・chapter content: bashing/washing, brief mention of drug. ・゜・word count: 1,268 ♡masterlist♡

“Tch, stop squirming so much will you?”

"That's easy for you to say, you took my last xanax!"

Peter, very much irritated, decides to ignore those words as he drags the washcloth down your spine. You really thought Glory's greatest asset would want to be stuck here babysitting a grown-ass woman in her early 20s, huh? You'd better fucking think again; with how bizarre this unconventional live-in assignment has been and is still going, Peter's mental gymnastics constantly blow hot and cold between wanting to protect you and wanting to strangle you. Anything to make your perpetual complaining go away, honestly. But as nice as the thought of making you shut up for good, the Cathedral's order to keep you safe is final, and he is but loyal to the organization that made him the powerful man he is today.

So the Apostle sucks it up, a sigh leaving his lips as one big hand closes a little tighter around your waist.

"You're recovering," Peter continues, the authority colors his tone even as his touch on your soaked back is undeniably gentle, "and the last thing I need is another headache of you OD'ing over off-label pills."

You let out a sound that falls somewhere between a gasp and a yelp. "I'm not an addict, ok?" That half-assed excuse almost has Peter rolling his eyes in pure frustration, his displeasure threatening to bubble over when you flounder on his lap like a fish out of water. "They're just my sleeping aid-"

“Aid or not ,” he cuts you off mid-sentence, “it doesn’t change the fact that you pop three xans per meal and barely function without them.” The last of his impatient reprimand is accompanied by foam-covered linen spreading the Olay body wash over the skin of your belly. Peter’s nose crinkles slightly at the sickening sugary scents of white strawberry and mint that assault his nostrils, but the man decides to keep his mouth shut.

And much to his surprise, so do you.

He’s relieved at your lack of resistance, or at least no more bitter remark. A huff leaves your lips, then nothing. Good, the Apostle is sure if this goes on, he’ll be scrubbing your wrinkly skin raw. Peter sets the washcloth aside and grabs the shower head, aiming the lukewarm stream of water at your body and clearing away the bubbles and remaining grime.

The water sloshes underneath your body as you draw up your legs; the tub isn’t small by any means, but Peter is aware of his size and how his large stature might be a little suffocating to you in terms of space. His grasp on your waist loosens, wanting to speed things up so you both can get out of here quicker. Yet the second the soap on your skin is washed away, the guy can't help but let his eyes linger on the scar on your lower thigh.

"What?" Peter hears you huff again, sounding uncomfortable despite your nonchalant expression. One of your hands moves down to conceal the healing wound, even if through the little cracks between your fingers, he can still make out the pinkish scar tissue.

"How are you feeling?" It's a genuine concern on his part.

"Um," your hesitation doesn't escape his notice, even palpably so when you start shifting awkwardly between his legs. Peter just wants to make sure, but he has no problem with dropping the topic if it irks you. That is what he thinks, but you finish the sentence, "better?"

So it doesn't hurt anymore, at least not as badly as it used to. The man lets out a low hum, then turns his head to hang the showerhead into its wall-mount bracket.

"No hair wash?" Are you serious right now? Peter rolls his eyes for real—an act he's very much acquainted with in the past six weeks living here—before facing you.

"No hair wash," there you go again with that annoying pout. Really makes him wonder how the hell you two are the same age, "I won't have you lazing around in here for more than 30 minutes."

Sensing an upcoming brainless argument, the raven-haired assassin stands up and walks out of the bath, taking you with him. He promptly ignores the way you yelp when one right hand grazes a ticklish spot on your nape to keep you still, instead reaching for two towels sitting on the sink. Peter wraps one of them around his waist and focuses on patting you dry with the other. There's a bored look on his face while you just stand there, grumbling under your breath about how you can do this on your own. Brat.

"Put this on." He draps the towel over your shoulders and hands you a fresh set of clothes for the night. Only when you take them does he start putting on his own; a moment of silence follows, save for the rustling of fabric. It’s oddly calming, and even though he has used to going through days without a wink of sleep, Peter feels his eyes getting droopy as he puts on his grey hoodie; the day’s exhaustion finally catching up.

You let out a yawn, putting your hand on his shoulder for support while you slip on a pair of cotton slippers. Now he just has to wait for you to finish up.

“Hey, Peter…”

“Hm?”

The guy looks over his shoulder when you call out his name. This time, you don’t meet his gaze, instead staring down on the floor as you scrawl with one foot.

”Sorry for my mini tantrum earlier.” You gulp, and was that shame he just heard? ”You were just trying to do your job…”

Peter cocks an eyebrow. He isn’t mad at you, per se—the smirk on his lips giving away his rare playfulness—more like the usual light-hearted annoyance (that makes him want to choke you due to how stubborn you are sometimes, but that’s out of the question). You’re still 97% better than most people the Apostle had encountered in his line of work, and that is to say out of the other 3% he didn’t fumble (or kill), you’re the girl who happens to fit the closest to society’s definition of normal.

Not that he cares about what people think, anyway.

“A-And I acted out like a child…” He’s half-expecting another sorry, but you keep your head down in silence. You must be waiting for his answer then, so the guy decides to give you an easy way out; the further teasing comment that is about to leave his mouth can be saved for another time.

”Aside from the occasional migraines you gave me,” Peter smiles, putting a hand on your head as he starts ruffling your hair. "you're not too bad yourself. Apology accepted."

You mirror his mirth, though only for a brief second. Schooling your expression into a mask of faux frustration, you huff and try to pry his hand off. “Right right, now stop would ya? You’re gonna mess up my hair!”

Again, sleep comes first. As fun as it is to taunt you, Peter needs to get you to bed. Tuck you in… is that what it is called? The Apostle mentally cringes at the term; Father Gabriel really did land him into babysitting his niece.

“Right… let’s go.” He settles for giving your head one last pat before motioning you to walk towards the door connected to your bedroom. The distance is short, but Peter knows you’ll be there when he turns around.

Tomorrow will just be another day.

[sirenwriter]

Introduction⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖

An out of the blue blog made for daydreams,fanfics and hot people....(≖⩊≖)

And here is a list of things i am letting you know:

° Name : siren (obviously its a pen name)

°zodiac:Pisces ♓

°Birth date : 1st of march

˖°🌊.·°*🫧𓇼⋆🦪˖°🌊.·°*🫧𓇼⋆🦪˖°🌊.·°*🫧𓇼⋆🦪₊

🛐Fandoms I am involved:

Arcane

Attack on titan

Black butler

Genshin Impact

Honkai star rail (new)

Jujutsu kaisen

Kakegurui

Love and deepspace ( new)

Miraculous ladybug

My hero academia

Solo leveling

(And lot of manhwa,shows, games and anime)

(≖⩊≖)(≖⩊≖)(≖⩊≖)(≖⩊≖)(≖⩊≖)

Tropes that you may see:

°yandere🏴

°angst💔

°fluff💘

°ooc content😳

°maybe smut?🙊

°imagines🛐

° AUs & imagines etc😉

Forbidden tropes and requests:

°NO minor should/will be involved. (Doesn't matter if character is fictional)( Especially if they are minors cannonically) ( I am not ageing them up)

°NO loli characters

( some idiot🤓☝️: but the character is 400 year old but looks like child due to some power blah blah blah-NO I AM NOT WRITING THAT ) ( Don't argue on that)

°NO hardcore or dirty nsfw (sc@t ,p33,etc)

°NO incest

° NO bestiality

(May add more in future)

⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖⊹ ࣪ ﹏𓊝﹏𓂁﹏⊹ ࣪ ˖

You don't like my content? Scroll away •⩊•

MDNI

Minors Do Not Interact

PS : You can send me requests i will try my best *mwah*💋

First Time Writer btw *wish me luck*(๑﹏๑//)

[kamirai-k]

Summary:

She had sworn it was just a joke. "I didn't mean to," she would say, "Can you blame me?" Or Haesol being Haesol and the "consequences" that come with it.

Pairing: Yeonwoo / Haesol

Tags: Cuddles, Married au, Romantic Fluff, Haesol's down bad, Fluff

Word Count: 1.3k

Yeonwoo and Haesol were having their daily cuddle session in front of the TV in their room when it happened. 

A larger body enveloped his smaller one in a tight yet all-the-more comforting grip. Not wanting to let go, and Yeonwoo preferred it that way. Just don't tell Haesol that. 

All had been well her practically surrounding him, her front pressed against his back, the warmth all the more present as she only wore a tank top and his own matching attire just in a different color. It certainly didn't help in that manner. Yeonwoo, however, wasn't a high schooler anymore. He was a husband and the way her hands now roamed all over him was certainly not reason for the fierce blush that wouldn't go down. 

No. 

The reason for that was her lips pressing against his neck and leaving trails in their wake. The heat of them, more precisely, was what had him reacting as though they were teenagers once more. 

It's not his fault she knew him so well! 

Yeonwoo's neck was sensitive.

“Mhn, Hae-haesol- hah- the movie.” He panted his disapproval.

Kang Haesol the beast she was didn’t relent. In fact, this emboldened her and as he was trying with all the might of a rabbit resisting the tantalizing carrot for he knew it was a trap, a trap he didn’t know he desperately craved or wanted to reject, she kept going and licked the shell of his ear.

His shallow pants soon turned into small occasional whimpers and he knew she wouldn’t stop. 

“I’ve been neglected all week Yeon-ah let me have this, please.” The fact she had the gull to lie to him when she screwed his brains out just last night. Kang Haesol was a wolf that hid behind that handsome appearance and Yeonwoo wanted to cry because how could he deny her when she looked at him with those eyes? 

“N-noo,” His attempts at refusal were cut short when she bit down on his exposed shoulder and the shock that action had on him resulted in Yeonwoo throwing the remote he held in his hands with a vice grip across and onto the floor. Right when the episode ended too. 

Yeonwoo turned his head to her brows furrowed and lips pulled into a pout, “Haesol! Look what you did now.” He humped, pushing her away to go get the remote. “You really can’t be patient at all can you.” 

He turned, crawling across the bed towards the edge, not letting her get a word in as he did so. 

“It’s not my fault,” Haesol deadpanned, “I just wanted a kiss.”

“What do you mean kiss? You bit me!” He’d just reached the edge of the bed, spreading his knees as he leaned down to get the remote not too far away, “If you wanted a kiss you could have done that better.” or ask she could simply ask.

He didn’t hear anything from her so he kept at it. Scolding her for her behavior had grown fun over the years.

“I mean come on. Now I have another mark to hide and just when all my others were healing,” He reached over, ass in the air for balance, and triumphantly grabbed the remote, “We even have a meet-up with the others and now I know they're going to ask questions. Nari and Junhyuk won’t stop teasing me, the menaces they are, and don’t even get me started on Yese— AHH?!

Yeonwoo hadn’t meant to he really hadn't but can you blame him? How was he supposed to know Haesol would take him by the hips and hump and grind into his (thankfully) clothed ass???

Was it his fault that he had spun around completely by reflex and accidentally smacked her head with the remote? 

The hard smack could be heard throughout the room and Yeonwoo gasped, “OH MY GOD! Haesol Are you OK!? 

His movements were frantic as he came out from under her to balance on his knees and grab her face in his hands. 

“I’m so sorry. It was just so sudden and I was scared. I didn’t mean to!” He whined as he gingerly touched the injury, “I’m so sor-

Haesol cut him off with a finger to the lips much to his surprise. 

Deep pools of indigo locked with eyes reminiscent of afternoon sunsets in the warm light of their room. Her steady gaze contrasted his panicked one as he touched her face to make sure he hadn’t done any permanent damage. 

“Yeonwoo,” She called for him and he didn’t have a chance to reply, her tone so warm and face so close he had to pause. In that brief pause, Yeonwoo didn’t even register those warm hands circling his waist and pulling him to her so they fell onto the mattress with Yeonwoo straddling her. 

Yeonwoo blinked, looking down at her. He hadn’t even opened his mouth to ask what she was doing when she interrupted him.

“If you're so worried why don't you kiss it better,” Haesol smirked up at him. A rare thing and Yeonwoo sucked in an annoyed breath at her audacity. After he’d almost cried in worry she now lay there with that insufferably attractive grin. How unfair.

Yeonwoo pouted but relented nonetheless. How could he say no to her when she asked so politely? He leaned down, slowly, of course, he would obviously make her wait for it. He may be easy but not quick to indulge. His chest pressed against hers, slow, and Yeonwoo was all the more aware of her eyes on him and even more so of how they had significantly darkened. He moved up to sit on her stomach and brought his hands to cradle her face.

“Cold,” Haesol said breathless.

Yeonwoo chuckled, “You’ll have to warm them up for me later.” 

He brought his lips to kiss the place he had hit her, her forehead, and let it linger. Haesol’s fingers curled in his hair and Yeonwoo suppressed a whimper as he kissed her eye and moved down towards her cheek. Haesol’s one hand buried in the tresses of his hair her other hand slid down the length of his spine to grab a handful of his ass check and he whined. His lips pulled from her cheek at the motion and he looked down at her flustered and now wanting. 

Like a child knowing no shame she grinned up at him and Yeonwoo wanted to wipe that smirk off her face. So he did. His lips met hers a moment later and the feeling of euphoria and heat that would envelop him hadn’t left him since their first kiss. The kiss did what he wanted it to, her hand was off his ass that that smirk gone. Not, however, her hands had moved to cage him into a tight hug and the pressure had him moaning into her mouth. 

Haesol took her opportunity and slid that hot tongue into his mouth and he groaned into the kiss, arms on her shoulders and mind clouded. She was such a good kisser it wasn’t fair. 

Her tongue was relentless as she devoured everything he had to give, gliding over places she knew were sensitive, the roof of his mouth especially, and he went limp. She had long memorized every place that made him an utter mess and would gladly exploit each and every one.

Haesol led him further into the kiss and Yeonwoo had long given up control to allow her her fill of him. The kiss was too long and not long enough. Soon enough their bodily need for air crept its way toward them and Haesol released his lips with a wet pop. 

Yeonwoo pulled away to sit back up as he looked down at her, chest heaving, face flushed eyes heavy with want, and his hands on her stomach. 

Haesol looked up at him, not a hair out of place, and smiled, “That’s one way to ‘kiss it better,’”

Yeonwoo rolled his eyes exasperated before leaning down for a peck at her lips, “You're insufferable you know that.”

“You love me.” Haesol chuckled before kissing his forehead and how could he not concede to that?

[skiesficz]

poll time ⋆₊˚⊹

hey guys!! after my little break i’m back and in full swing! so i have an idea for a mini series inspired by the manhwa/kdrama ‘secret relationships’ because i am OBSESSED!! it will be female reader tho since i find it so hard to write from a male perspective 😓 so.. what group are we wanting our 3 love interests from?

name 1 = suhyeon

name 2 = jaemin

name 3 = seonghyeon

[locomoqo]

haiii!!! i may have spent the rest of my time reading all your works🥲🥲 and is it okay to request Girl Dad! jake,goo and gun reacting to their baby just blabbering and them going on with it like “yeah i know right” “that’s so true”

thank you!! (also take ur time since it looks like you have alot on ur plate atm💕💕)

sweet talk

ft. Gun Park, Goo Kim & Jake Kim x f!reader [separate]

details: fluff, established relationship (married)

A/N: I SAW THIS AND I WAS LIKE OH I HAVE TO DO THISSS ITS SO SAUR CUTEEEE YIEEE THANK YOU ANON FOR THIS REQ mweheh i love reqs like these

ᯓ★—GUN

Gun worked swiftly, slicing the apples with precision. He glanced over at his baby girl in her seat, her wide eyes tracking his every move as he sliced through each piece. You were down with a fever, leaving him to not only take care of you but also to manage his curious, babbling daughter.

He held up a bunny-shaped apple slice, presenting it to her with a slight smirk. Her reaction was immediate—eyes lighting up as she reached out, tiny fingers stretching toward the apple. “You like the bunny?” he asked as she took it and clumsily tried to nibble on it, ending up with more drool than bites.

Gun shook his head with a faint smile, but just as he turned back to finish the apple slices, she banged her chubby hands on the tray, her little mouth opening in a string of excited babbles.

“What’s wrong?” he asked, tilting his head as she bounced in her seat, one hand gripping the bunny slice like a prized possession while the other pointed insistently at the plate.

“These are for mommy,” he explained, trying to hold his ground, but she only babbled louder, waving her free hand around as if to insist.

Gun sighed, glancing at the bunny-shaped slice she held, and then at the other slices on the plate. “You want all of them like this?” he muttered, looking back at her. “You think mommy would like it, huh?”

“Mamamama!” she gurgled happily, slapping her tiny hands against the tray again, clearly delighted at his consideration.

Gun chuckled, shaking his head. “Fine, you win.” He picked up another apple slice, carefully cutting it into another bunny shape. His daughter watched, entranced, and when he showed her the new bunny, she squealed with delight.

As he worked, Gun continued to talk to her, more to keep her entertained than anything. “Think mommy’s going to like the bunnies?” he mused out loud, and she responded with a babble, as if offering her very serious opinion on the matter.

After finishing, he arranged the bunny-shaped slices neatly on the plate, giving one last glance to his daughter, who had finally managed a small nibble on her slice. “Well, if it makes you two happy…” he muttered with a small, barely-there smile, carrying his daughter in one arm and the plate in his other hand to bring a little joy to his sick wife.

With his daughter happily babbling away at her “help” and his own satisfaction at his work.

ᯓ★—GOO

Goo strolled through the house with his baby girl snuggled in her carrier, her tiny feet kicking as she took in everything with wide, curious eyes. Every few steps, she’d babble something, and Goo would gasp dramatically, as if she’d just shared the most incredible news.

“Oh, really?” he chuckled, bouncing her gently. “You’re just full of stories today, aren’t you?”

They paused in the hallway when she started reaching out, her little hand stretching toward a framed photo on the wall. It was a candid picture of Goo and you, both smiling on your wedding day. She babbled louder, smacking her little hand against the photo, clearly fascinated.

“Oh-ho! You found mama and dada, huh?” Goo teased, leaning closer to the picture so she could get a better look. She gurgled, waving her hands at the frame, and Goo’s grin grew. “You like that, huh? That’s ‘cause mama’s in it. She’s the pretty one, right? Dada’s just the one making her laugh.”

“Umwa, mwaamama!” she let out a string of babbles, and Goo put on a look of mock surprise. “You think she’s prettier than me? Oh, so it’s like that, huh?” he said, feigning hurt. “I’ll let that one slide since you’re my favorite girl.”

His daughter’s little noises filled the hall, and he grinned, nodding like she’d made the smartest observation. “Ohhh, you think I got lucky, huh? You got that right, sweetie. Lucky, lucky, lucky,” he chuckled. “And look at you, you’re her little twin! Same smile, same cute face… except you got daddy’s charm, don’t you?” he added with a wink, booping her nose.

Another babble.

“Yeah, I know,” he replied, nodding as though they were having a full-blown conversation. “She’s smart, tough, and—well, let’s just say she’s got me wrapped around her finger. And you… you’re just like her, you know? Gonna grow up and be just as amazing.”

He paused, caught off guard by his own words, blinking in surprise as he felt a weird flutter in his chest. “Whoa, that was... okay, that was a little too sentimental,” he muttered, looking down at his daughter, who just blinked up at him with wide, curious eyes. “Ugh, daddy went full cringe mode for a second there. Ignore that, okay?”

But she just babbled back, and Goo groaned playfully, rolling his eyes. “Oh, great, you’re telling mama? You’re ratting dada out for being sappy? Unbelievable,” he said before pressing a kiss to the top of her head.

ᯓ★—JAKE

Jake rocked his crying little girl in his arms, gently swaying back and forth as he tried every trick he could think of to calm her down. He bounced her, hummed softly, even gave her that little “shh-shh-shh” that sometimes worked like magic. But today? Not a chance. Her babbling came between tiny, hiccupping sobs, and he leaned down to look at her with a gentle smile, brushing a thumb softly across her chubby cheek.

“Someone’s got a lot to say,” he murmured, his voice soft. “Tell me, princess, what’s wrong? You hungry?” He shifted her in his arms, bouncing her lightly. “Or are you just giving daddy a little piece of your mind?”

His daughter’s cries softened for a moment, only to pick back up again with another babble. Jake widened his eyes, nodding as if he fully understood her complaints. “Ah, I see, I see,” he replied, nodding seriously. “So it’s the blanket, huh? Not soft enough? Or was it the bottle? Too warm? Too cold? Man, this is complicated.”

She let out another babble-cry, tiny fists reaching up to grab onto his shirt as if she were clinging to her last hope. He chuckled, taking her tiny hand and pressing a gentle kiss to her fingers. “Alright, I get it, princess. You’re not mad. Just… sharing some feedback, right? I respect that.”

She let out a series of softer babbles, staring up at him with watery eyes, and Jake leaned forward, pressing his forehead lightly to hers. “Yeah, I’m listening. Go on, get it all out. Daddy’s right here.”

With each little sound she made, Jake nodded along, pretending to take mental notes. “Oh, so it’s my singing you’re not a fan of? I thought it was pretty good—so did mommy, but maybe I need some pointers from the expert,” he whispered, winking. “And the rocking chair? Too slow, right? Got it, I’ll add that to daddy’s list.”

She continued to babble, and he kept going along with it, his voice taking on a playful tone. “And here I thought daddy was nailing it, huh? Guess I still have a lot to learn from the boss.”

She let out a few more babbling sounds, her tone shifting like she was calming down, and Jake continued, nodding sympathetically. “And on top of that, maybe you missed mommy a little too, right? Thought she’d be here, didn’t you?” He gave her a warm smile, his fingers tracing gentle circles on her back. 

Finally, her cries faded into little hiccups, her big eyes staring up at him. Jake let out a soft laugh, his hand rubbing soothing circles on her back. “See? You just needed someone to listen. Don’t worry, princess—I’ll always be here, taking notes and making sure everything’s just right.”

His daughter cooed softly, finally content, her tiny fingers clutching his shirt as she nestled closer. Jake let out a relieved sigh, pulling her closer.