#myself that much. ugh. at least the lab has been pretty empty so no ones seen me crying lol

[oh-so-scenarios]

ᴛʜᴇ sᴇʀᴇɴᴅɪᴘɪᴛʏ ᴏғ ᴛʜɪɴɢs...♠| 07

⤖ ᴡʜᴏ ʜᴀs ᴛɪᴍᴇ ғᴏʀ sᴏᴜʟᴍᴀᴛᴇs? Jᴜɴɢ Hᴏsᴇᴏᴋ ɪs ᴛᴏᴏ ʙᴜsʏ ʙᴇɪɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ʜᴇᴀᴅ ᴏғ ʜɪs ᴍᴀғɪᴀ ɴᴇᴛᴡᴏʀᴋ. Hᴇ ᴡᴏɴ'ᴛ ʟᴇᴛ ᴛʜᴇ sᴇʀᴇɴᴅɪᴘɪᴛʏ ᴏғ ʜɪs sᴏᴜʟᴍᴀᴛᴇ ᴍᴏᴠᴇ ʜɪᴍ…ʀɪɢʜᴛ?

⤖ Mᴀғɪᴀ Lᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ Hᴏsᴇᴏᴋ x ᴅᴏᴄᴛᴏʀ Fᴇᴍᴀʟᴇ Rᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ, Aɴɢsᴛ, sᴍᴜᴛ, sᴏᴜʟᴍᴀᴛᴇ!ᴀᴜ,

A/N: Unedited. Ignore any errors, please! whoa, word count is 8k o.o I surprised myself. I feel like this chapter is pretty okay. Didn’t feel like re-writing it for the 5th time so please enjoy! (Word Count: 8.13K )

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Narrator’s POV:

Y/n sits at a small circular table in the hospital cafeteria. The sun was setting, turning the sky an orange hue. She was given a beautiful view as her table face the huge window. At that moment, Y/n sat with her legs crossed and her lunch sitting in front of her. All she felt was tired. Tired and overwhelmed. 

The recent surgeries that have been performed at the hospital were draining. She found herself doing fewer operations but they were growing in length. There weren’t enough hours in the day to recharge and sleep. She felt like she was lacking sleep and the bags making appearances under her eyes was all the proof needed. 

The Charity Gala was approaching, making Hoseok grow busy with his schemes. Schemes of which she still didn’t know. It’d been 5 days since she saw Hoseok. Their last conversation being when he scolded her for trying to get information on him. She was also 2 days past the due date for her “assignment” to find another assistant. 

She had settled on picking Jennie, but couldn’t muster the courage to ask her. How do approach someone about something like that? Oh yeah! Just join me in this illegal practice for my mafia boss soulmate! 

Y/n wouldn’t dare utter such words. Not that she could speak at all. All of the trauma department have been working like crazy. An increase in car accidents has left everyone drained and it seems things have just started to settle. Even Dr. Lee lacked the energy to show his award-winning smile. He didn’t even come on to Y/n like he usually does. 

Finding out that Hoseok was her soulmate wasn’t stopping him. 

Hoseok hadn’t made any attempt to reach out to Y/n. She was supposed to meet him at the “headquarters” 2 days ago, but she ended up falling asleep the moment she got home. Her eyes snapped open the next morning, expecting a few missed calls or angry text messages. There was nothing. 

She was eager to see him again, banter with him or just be near him again. Jungkook wasn’t even replying to her texts, telling her that they were truly busy. She didn’t want to get in their way, so she found that it would be best to not go back to HQ till she was told. 

Sleeping with her eyes open at this point, Y/n didn’t notice Jennie take the seat beside her. Her white lab coat hanging loosely off her shoulders. Her hair pulled back into a ponytail. She was bare-faced, not even her eyebrows filled in. Her peach top was ruffled and her white dress pants were the same way. 

“I got dressed in the dark.” Jennie finally speaks. Y/n’s eyes slowly move to Jennie, who is staring at the table blankly. 

“I don’t remember how I got here.” Y/n croaks, her voice coming out a bit rough. The two then sit in another heavy silence. 

“How is Hoseok doing?” Jennie attempted to make conversation. Y/n only shrugged in response. She didn’t have the energy to hold a real conversation. She was running on empty, but there is still a stack of paperwork waiting for her. She threw her head back, ready to cry from the stress weighing on her shoulders. 

Jennie stood up from her seat. It was a sluggish movement, making the young woman look like she was ready to collapse. 

“Well, I’ll see you later tonight,” Jennie muttered. 

Y/n was too tired to catch Jennie’s odd words. See you later tonight? Was she supposed to be hanging out with Jennie tonight? Cause y/n planned to go home and sleep as much as she could. 

Snapping out her exhaustion trance, Y/n moved forward to take another bite of her fruit salad, thinking of grabbing the piece of apple that laid at the bottom. She remembered reading something about apples helping people stay awake. 

She ate away at her fruit salad, little by little. Her phone dinged from her white coat pocket as she took a swig of her water. She took a look at her phone and felt an exciting knock from the heart. 

Hoseok: Doc, you know where to be. Tonight. call JK when you’re done with your shift.

She was ready to celebrate being able to see Hoseok, but her exhaustion came to damper that. Ugh, what work would he have for her? She was so tired! He’ll definitely say something about her lack of an assistant. 

She rolled her eyes at just the thought of his disapproving and dark eyes. 

After finishing her lunch, Y/n sat in her office for a while; typing away at her computer. She wasn’t watching the clock, knowing that this paperwork was what kept her at work. So she did it, typed and typed till she was sure the sounds of the keyboard would haunt her dreams.

The moment she submitted her paperwork, she folded both arms onto her desk, resting her head on her arms. 

“I’ll just rest my eyes.” She muttered to herself. Her eyes fluttered closed and a long sigh left her lips.

~!~

“Y/n!” A voice chimed. 

Before fully waking up, Y/n internally groaned. Who is bothering her? Who is waking her? How long had she been asleep?

Her eyes opened painfully slow, spotting the clock on her wall first. After the tired blur wore off, she was able to notice the time. 

3o minutes. She had only been able to sleep for 30 minutes.

“Noona?” A different person called this time.

Y/n sat up, her eyes scrunched into narrow slits as she came to. It took a moment for her to process the two people in front of her. 

Jennie stood to her left, a smirk on her lips. Though she still looked tired in her eyes. To Y/n’s right was Jungkook who stood in an oversized grey hoodie with distress jeans. Her eyes darted between the two figures, trying to collect her thoughts. The room stayed silent for a moment and Y/n wordlessly stood up from her seat.

“Hoseok wants to see me.” She was reminding herself, “I nearly forgot.”

Jungkook snickered, his lips turning into a tight smile, “Boss had a feeling you were going to fall asleep. You did the same thing last time.” 

She slipped off her white coat, draping it over her chair and gathering her things. It was till she had her bag on her shoulder that Y/n stopped to look at Jennie. The two stared at each other, Jennie blinked with a friendly smile while Y/n’s brows furrowed.

“Jennie..what’s up?” Y/n asked her voice still raspy from her brief nap.

“I’m also meeting Hoseok.” She answered simply. Jennie looked towards Jungkook innocently. 

“She doesn’t know?” 

Y/n gawks at Jennie then stiffly turns to Jungkook, “Know what? Why is Jennie meeting Hoseok?”

Jungkook shrugged and shoved his hands into the pockets of his hoodie, “Boss got impatient waiting for you to find an assistant--”

“--So he hired Jennie?” Y/n cut off Jungkook’s words. She wasn’t surprised that Hoseok took matters into his own hands, but that he picked Jennie to be her assistant. How much did Jennie know? How long had she known?

“Yup!” Jennie pops the ‘p’ and grins. 

“You’re okay with the type of work you’ll be doing?” Y/n was almost whispering now. 

Jennie looked confused by Y/n’s question. Jennie wasn’t as stuck up as Y/n was thinking. Hoseok knew what he was doing when he approached her. Jennie, despite her loud exterior, is a secretive and observant person. She learned that from her father who was a lawyer. 

When you’re friendly and appear ditzy, people let their guards down. Watch closely and take notes for when you need them.

“Black market work.” She answers simply before walking around the desk to stop in front of Y/n. Jennie was now wearing black leggings with a plain red shirt and a cardigan. She had changed out of her work clothes and Y/n wished she had done the same instead of sleeping. 

With her hands-on Y/n’s shoulders; Jennie speaks, “I know it all. Mafia soulmate. Mafia doctor, transplant surgeries and the latter. No need to worry, I know what I am stepping into.” 

Jennie sounded too casual for Y/n. The innocent and bubbly gaze Jennie held while speaking about the illegal situation left Y/n feeling uncomfortable. Maybe she’s the only one sensitive to these things. She didn’t reply to Jennie, but walking past her and out her office, hearing Jungkook and Jennie trailing behind her. 

“She took that better than I expected.” She heard Jennie mutter behind her. 

Y/n really wanted to yell, throw a fit and lecture Jennie for so carelessly stepping into this tight situation. Frankly, Y/n was too tired. She didn’t have the energy to. Her mind was throwing angry and distasteful thoughts, but her body was too tired to execute them.

Y/n would just turn to stare at Jennie in the backseat as Jungkook drove the car. She was making sure this wasn’t a fever dream and was trying to process the situation.

They pulled up to the brick building that had become familiar. While ignoring Jennie’s questions about Hoseok, Y/n followed Jungkook into the HQ with Jennie trailing behind.

They came to the lobby area where the circular table was. The black and whiteboards stood in their regular places. Things were written on them. Y/n didn’t try to read them, but her eyes searched for Hoseok who was present. Everyone else sat at the table, papers spread out among them. 

“Y/n!” Taehyung chimed as the others noticed her. She gave a weary smile, her eyes darted around the room to at least look every man in the face. Her footsteps stopped as she spotted an unfamiliar face. Well...not unfamiliar.

She’s seen his picture on the whiteboard before. The artist! What’s his name again?

“Jaehyun!” Someone screams. Oh right! His name was-- oh wait. 

Y/n spins around just in time to see Jennie stalk past her to the quiet man at the table. She notices Jennie’s wide eyes and her face turning a cherry red. The other men in the room watch intently. 

Jaehyun stands up from his seat, also surprised to see Jennie here. 

“Is this the kind of work you’ve been doing?” Jennie hisses at her boyfriend. 

He glares at her, “Is this the kind of work you’ve been doing?” He shoots back. Y/n walks over to one of the empty seats at the circular table. She plops down and watches the couple as they aggressively argue.

“How do you think I pay for those fancy dates of ours Jennie? I am doing my best to make a living! It’s still painting! I am still doing art! What are you doing? Black market surgeries? You can’t call me out!” Jaehyun argued back. 

Yoongi looked at Y/n for an explanation. The action itself was small. He pointed to the two, who was standing to his right. Y/n just shook her head and rolled her eyes. They bickered back and forth and everyone watched silently. 

No one noticed Hoseok who stood a few yards behind Y/n. He glanced at the Jennie and Jaehyun, already knowing the connection between the two. He knew it would make things a bit messy...but those two being soulmates would come in handy. 

Then his eyes flickered to Y/n. He could only see her back, but the way she clutched in her seat was a dead giveaway. She was tired. The constant sighing, made visible by her shoulders rising and falling. 

He hadn’t seen her in a few days. He wasn’t keeping count but...her absence was noticed. He knew he probably had 30 minutes max before she started to nod off. Work has probably been draining for her. His eyes moved back to Jennie, also noticing her tired appearance. 

Hoseok quietly takes the empty seat beside Y/n who notices him immediately. She manages a soft but weak smile. 

“You look tired,” Hoseok states as a matter of fact. 

She chuckles, “Just say you missed me so we can move forward.” His words weren’t malicious and though they were monotone in some aspect, Y/n understood that. She playfully snapped back at him, giggling quietly. Hoseok didn’t want to admit the small satisfaction he got from the small interaction. Despite her fatigue, she still smiled that beaming smile of hers. 

He looks away from her quickly and down at the papers on the table. 

“Let’s get started. You can have your arguments after this.” Hoseok stated. 

This mission was big. A single error could result in failure and jail. Hoseok hasn’t been caught yet and he doesn’t plan to. 

“The Charity Gala is in a few days. There will be famous art pieces, valuable art pieces. There will be some for Art Gallery and others for auction. The goal is the art pieces for the Art gallery. There are four pieces we’re going to swap out. Jaehyun is well known for painting replicas, so he has already done so for all four pieces.” Hoseok began. Y/n shifted beside him, and though he noticed, he didn’t miss a beat in speaking. He wasn’t aware of it before, but now he sees how close their chairs really are. He wasn’t going to scoot away, seeing as it would draw attention. Y/n made no attempt either.

He caught a whiff of whatever shampoo she used while she ran her fingers through her hair. Y/n wasn’t surprised by the plan. She should have known Hoseok wouldn’t just volunteer to be in charge of the Charity Gala. She crossed her arms over her chest and listened.

“The night is set in such a manner; there is a viewing of the gallery, then there is the dinner which will be held in a ballroom. The gallery room and ballroom are only 4-minute walk down a long hallway from each other. After the dinner, the auction begins while others are free to roam back to the gallery if they please.” Hoseok went on explaining. 

The time frame in which everyone is having dinner will be when the switch is made. Hoseok thought the plan out well, knowing that art professionals will be at the gala, he decided to put the gallery viewing before the dinner. He wanted the professionals to look and confirm that real works were there. So when the fakes are noticed later, only an outside force could be blamed. 

Hoseok wanted to make sure there was no way he could be suspected. 

That’s where Y/n comes in. 

“Y/n,” Hoseok said. She looked at him, raising an eyebrow. 

“You will be my date for the evening.” He informed her. He didn’t even give her a chance to react before moving on. 

“You will be my date, you will be by my side. You need to make sure everyone sees that you are with me and I am with you. We need to convince everyone that we are a couple.”

“Why is that necessary?” 

“Everyone has to believe I was too distracted by you to take part in anything. The boys will be doing all the physical labor. I will be there for face, so work on not stiffening up when I’m close to you.” 

Hoseok expected a retort from Y/n but she only sighed, keeping her arms crossed over her chest. Hoseok to lay out how the fakes would be taken and swapped, along with how Jin would have to do some work with the camera footage. 

Y/n was tuning in and out. She was falling asleep while also trying to ignore the fast pace of her heart. She’s gonna be Hoseok’s date? They have to fake being a couple? So skinship? Hugging? Holding hands? Loving gazes-- is Hoseok even capable of such things?

Y/n can’t be sure when she really fell asleep, but her thoughts tapered off and she was sound asleep. Little did she know the room around her had grown still. 

Seokjin was talking about everyone’s roles in the mission and just how important timing was. Hoseok sat back in his seat, listening to make sure everything would run smoothly when he felt a weight drop onto his shoulder. He looked up from the paper in his hand and to his left. 

Y/n’s head was now resting on his shoulder and she was knocked out. All he was smelling now was the shampoo and light traces of her perfume. He sighed and looked back at the paper in his hands when he realized Seokjin stopped speaking. 

He looked up with sharp eyes only to find all eyes on him. 

“What?” He called out, thinking there was a problem.

He was oblivious. Jungkook beamed, his feature looking bunny-like while he smiled. 

“Continue with what you were saying.” Hoseok orders, looking back down at the words printed on the paper. They went on discussing the plan. It wasn’t much longer till Jennie also clocked out. She rested her head on Jaehyun’s shoulder, throwing her arm around his abdomen and snuggling her face into his neck. Jaehyun seemed unphased by it. 

However, it wasn’t like Hoseok’s indifference. Hoseok simply didn’t mind it, seeing as Y/n wasn’t restricting him in any way. Jaehyun was used to Jennie’s cuddling and even welcomed it.

The meeting went on and Y/n shifted a bit, mumbling something in her sleep and somehow finding one of her hands on Hoseok’s thigh. He stared at her hand for a moment before turning back into the meeting. 

Once the meeting was over, Hoseok watched as everyone went their different ways. He pulled his phone from his pocket, checking emails and text messages. He glanced up once to see Jaehyun scooping Jennie up in his arms like some sort of prince charming. 

“Boss, you guys look cute together,” Jungkook said almost coming out of nowhere. 

“We better,” Hoseok scoffed, “we really need to sell it at the gala so--”

Jungkook softly cut him off and shook his head, “That’s not what I meant. I mean you and Y/n REALLY look cute together.”

Hoseok gave a disapproving stare at the younger man but just got a wider smile in return.

“Come hold her head so I can go. Whether you want to wake her up or not is up to you.” Hoseok barked. Jungkook made no attempt to move from his spot a foot away.

“Hyung,” Jungkook’s voice grew softer. He swallowed and took a deep breath, knowing he was now entering the sensitive territory. 

“I think you should give it a shot, Y/n has shown what kind of person she is. It’s easy to see that she’s nothing like her. She’s nothing like your mother--”

“Kook.” Hoseok’s voice came out hard, and cold. Jungkook stopped, scared to say anymore to his boss.

“Right! Right! Never bringing her up again! Got it! Sorry about that!” The young man rushed out, walking over to get the slumbering Y/n off Hoseok’s shoulder.

~!~ 

 “You’re expecting me to wear that?” Y/n almost snickered. She stared at the dress laid out on her bed, the box it was delivered in tossed aside. 

Both she and Jennie stood in silk robes, hair and makeup done. Y/n trusted Jennie to pick out their dresses, so she sat back and focused on work. Now that the dress was here, Y/n could only gawk at it. It was a beautiful gown and looked expensive, but she doubts she could pull it off.

It was a sleek and sexy dress, form-fitting, with spaghetti straps and that draping neckline that’s been in trend. A slit up the dress looks like it stopped just a bit above her knee and the slight sparkle to the dress was alluring. 

It was a rich and deep green, but the slight sparkle only complimented the satin material in which the gown was made of. It went perfectly with the earrings she had on and the simple pearl necklace. 

“You don’t like it?” Jennie questioned, looking back and forth between Y/n and the dress. Y/n lets out a deep breath and shakes her head. 

“No, it’s a beautiful gown. I’ve just never worn anything like it before.” Y/n answers honestly. 

Jennie can’t help the small chuckle that leaves her lips. Since taking the job offer from Hoseok, she’s seen first hand what Y/n meant when she called Hoseok indifferent. The relationship between the two was ...complicated. Y/n often attempted to meet Hoseok halfway. The few meetings they had in the last few days really showed that. 

It was either Hoseok couldn’t see Y/n’s attempts or he really didn’t care. But what was easy to see was the heart eyes Y/n had every time Hoseok was around. Even in their arguments, Y/n found herself smiling after. 

Hoseok had a charm about him. He was quiet, intriguing and mysterious. 

“Well, you’ll be wearing it tonight.” Jennie replied. She moves towards Y/n’s closet where her navy blue gown hung. It was a bit bigger. Not a ballgown, but not form-fitting like Y/n’s. It was a strapless number with lace detailing. She absolutely loved the gown from the moment she laid eyes on it. 

             Her heels were just as high as Y/n’s. Both dresses would have a small train and seeing how extravagant these gowns were really drilled into Y/n’s head that this event was a big deal. She was too distracted thinking about how she’d have to play ‘couple of the year’ with Hoseok. In front of co-workers and important people. All that while pretending she doesn’t know 1.2 million dollars worth of artwork is being stolen and replaced. 

Stopping by HQ just yesterday was shocking for Y/n. She saw the replicas of the artwork and she nearly applauded Jaehyun. They were excellent. Now, Y/n was no art expert but to the untrained eye, the images were perfect reflections of each other. They even made sure the frames were mimicking the ones to be used in the gala.

I am assisting in a theft mission. Was all that Y/n could think. If she thought she was deep in the hole before, she’s practically digging it now. 

She grabbed the gown and began slipping it on. It felt even more expensive once the material was rubbing against her skin. Jennie zipped her up, and she did the same for Jennie. Just as the two were finished putting their heels on, Y/n’s phone dinged. Jennie’s phone did the same not even 5 seconds later. 

Hoseok: Here.

There was a slight jump in Y/n’s heart as she read the words. When she looked up from the phone, Jennie was already staring back at her. 

“Welp, let’s get this night over with.” Jennie almost groaned. 

The hammering of her heart was all Y/n could hear. Even as she stood in the elevator, Jennie’s small talk was hard to hear. She nervously played with the thin velvet strap of her purse, staring at her foggy reflection in the elevator doors. Her dark red lipstick was one thing that could easily be made out.

She looked good. She looked great. Amazing even. The elevator dinged and the doors opened. Picking up her dress with both hands, Y/n walked out first, already spotting two black SUV’s parked right in front of the apartment building. 

You could imagine Y/n’s disbelief when she saw Jaehyun and Hoseok both stepping out of the SUVs. Hoseok’s suit was dark grey, he wore nice black dress shoes and his brown hair had slight blonde highlights in it. His hair was parted to the side and slicked back, putting his forehead on display. His white dress shirt had no tie or bowtie, but it was unbuttoned. Only two or three buttons but it gave him an edge.

As he adjusted his suit coat, his dark green cufflinks shined. They were matching. Jaehyun walked to open the door that led out of the apartment complex. Y/n thanked him briefly before walking right up to Hoseok. Wow, he looked good. She couldn’t help but take in how he looked in that nicely tailored suit. The coat opened with his hands in his pockets. A stance that held confidence and freedom. He looked like he was on top of the world and owned it. 

The green cufflinks held her attention for a moment. She probably looked like she was drooling over him. She looked up from his outfit only to catch his eyes still trailing over her body. He seemed to take a second to really look at every part of her. She didn’t miss his eyes lingering on her draping neckline, so basically her chest. 

When his eyes reached her face, she tried to figure out what he was thinking. His facial expression wasn’t giving anything away but he looked into his deep brown eyes and thought for a second she saw something new. The noise of cars zooming by and the other noises of a buzzing city was all that could be heard. 

What is this tension? The dense and heavy cloud was looming over them. There were so many unspoken words floating around, while one waited for the other to speak. 

Say something! Say something you fool! Y/n directed herself. 

“We’re matching!” A smile pulls at Y/n lips. 

Looking back at her Hoseok is glad to see that overcast of exhaustion gone from her eyes.

“Of course we’re matching, I picked the dress.” He says, moving back to open the door to the car.

Y/n raises her eyebrows, “You picked the dress? I thought--”

“Jennie only delivered the dress to you. I picked and paid for it.” He explains. Y/n gets into the car, and Hoseok follows in, shutting the door.

The car ride was mostly quiet, with Hoseok speaking on the phone to Namjoon, reviewing plans and times. Y/n twiddles her thumb, and was left alone with her thoughts. She was oblivious to the glances from Hoseok.

“Green must be your favorite color.” She said as Hoseok ended his phone call. 

He narrowed his eyes at her, “What makes you say that?”

Y/n scoffs playfully, “Come on. I’ve seen you wear green suits. My dress is green, your cufflinks and your phone case are green.” 

“There’s nothing wrong with that.” 

“You’re right,” Y/n adds, “Green is also associated with the grinch so it matches you perfectly.” She giggles while Hoseok uncharacteristically rolls his eyes.

“Y/n, I really need to sell your role tonight. But if I do anything you don’t like, tell me.”

Y/n nods, “Understood.”

The gala was definitely a big deal. It was held at the banquet hall not too far from the hospital. There were cameras, media outlets, and big names all there in the name of art and charity. Hoseok jumped out the car and the cameras began to flash like crazy. Oh right...Hoseok is like an actual company owner. 

How much work does Hoseok really do? It’s okay for him to be photographed? As Y/n was helped out of the car, she looked down at the ground, the camera flashes being a bit too much for her eyes.

Hoseok is right beside her, placing a hand on the small of her back and pulling her close to him. They stroll past all the cameras and light and into the building. Y/n tries her best to seem natural with Hoseok’s hand on her back. 

But it felt like the spot he was touching grew hotter and hotter. Her shoulder was pressed into his side and the warmth coming off him was comforting. He wore that same cologne she’s smelt many times.

“Hey, look at me for a second,” Hoseok whispered. Y/n did as he said, meeting a small smile on his lips. She almost gasped. Not a smirk, not a snicker before he messes with her. A real smile, or a real-looking smile.

“Look like you’re happy to be with me,” He said while beaming.

Y/n almost said I am. Almost. The corner of her lips turned up in a smile that didn’t feel so fake. The close proximity of their faces didn’t feel forced. This didn’t feel forced. None of it did. 

“So we’re heading to the gala.” She said, adjusting the purse strap that was on her other shoulder. It wasn’t a question, but as if she had to remind herself. The two walked along, Hoseok removing his hand from the warm spot on her back to hanging by his side. 

Y/n didn’t need any instruction, seamlessly holding onto his bicep. She liked this. She liked this a little too much. 

The gallery hall was buzzing. There were celebrities, influencers, and company executives. It’s a different world for sure. They were able to walk around the gallery for all of 3 minutes before Hoseok was approached. It was some company executives talking about possible investments Hoseok’s company could make.

Hoseok chatted with them a bit, noticed that Y/n was also listening intently. She wanted to know more about Hoseok’s non-illegal work, as well as just how much he works.

“Excuse our rudeness, who is this beautiful lady on your arm?” The Lotte executive said, running his eyes up and down Y/n’s frame.

“This,” Hoseok brushed off Y/n hand and wrapped an arm around her waist, making Y/n face heat up. She grinned at the two men, sticking a hand out to shake their hands.

“This is Y/n L/n, my girlfriend. She is a surgeon for the trauma department at Seoul Sky.” Ugh, his words just roll off his tongue so smoothly.

“It is a pleasure to meet you.” Y/n said. The two older men chuckled.

“We never see Mr. Jung with a woman at these types of things. I just knew you had to be someone special.” The loan company CEO pointed out.

Y/n jokingly pouted and looked at Hoseok, “Not the smooth ladies’ man I thought you to be huh?” I teasing reached up to mess with the collar of his shirt. She narrowed her eyes at Hoseok, and he noticed the taunting gleam in her eyes. She was having fun. 

He chuckled, not at her words up at the realization he’d made.

“Every man has to hype himself up to his women, it’s only natural.” The Lotte executive joked. 

“If I had a beautiful woman like Y/n, I wouldn’t have tried my best to seem cool!” 

Everyone laughed, chatted some more before moving onto other things. This happened a lot. They’d be alone for a few minutes before more businessmen and women approached. The wanting gazes from the women around were annoying, leading Y/n facial expressions to have a mind of their own. 

“It’s no surprise you have a girlfriend just as intimidating as you are Mr. Jung.” One woman had said. Tha told Y/n about her facial expression right there and she worked a smile back onto her face. Now with a glass of champagne in hand, Y/n’s eyes darted around the gallery. She caught a few glimpses of Jennie and Jaehyun, who were seriously looking at the art. 

Jaehyun was thrilled, clearly going on about the works. At one point Y/n noticed Jimin who was dressed as a waiter. He must have had a wig on because his black hair was now a honey blonde. He wore glasses and kept his eyes down for the most part. 

The sigh that left her lips was a mistake, but it was enough to stop the flow of conversation Hoseok was having with some woman who said to be from an Energy Drink company. They all stopped to look at Y/n, and she was unaware, her eyes focused on the further away painting. 

Hoseok’s hand, placed securely on her waist, tighten, and his thumb started to caress her comfortingly. 

“Are you tired already, baby?” He whispered in her ear. Y/n’s head snapped around to look up at Hoseok, trying not to come off as surprised when she noticed just how close their faces were. All she could imagine was kissing him. His breath fanned her face and his eyes bore into her. 

The nickname had been the head turner but the closeness and intimacy were causing her heart to leap. He was too good at this. 

“N-no, I’m just interested in that painting over there.” Y/n answered softly. She gave a pointed look towards one of the artworks. Hoseok was going to say something, clearly about to excuse himself from the women around him. 

“Darling,” She said quickly, making Hoseok look back to her. 

“Don’t stop your conversation for me,” Y/n flashed a small smile, “I will be right over there if you need me.”

Hoseok leans in close and whispers in Y/n’s ear, “Trying to run away from me?” He was teasing her. Y/n smiled, and though others would see it as a couple in love flirting, Y/n was almost snickering at him.

“For my own sanity, yes.” She says quietly. She breaks away from Hoseok, ignoring the cold that surrounded her once his warmth was gone. She walked towards one of the artworks, stopping right in front of it. 

Her eyes were on the painting. It showed a woman staring at herself in the mirror of her bathroom, while the sun outside was black, still shining yellow despite the color. 

“Jaehyun says the picture is about how good can still come from bad.” Y/n jumps slightly as Jennie comes to stand beside her.

“Oh really?” Y/n takes a sip of her champagne, looking over at her friend’s smiling face. Jennie is looking at the painting still while Y/n stares at her profile.

“The black sun that’s shining yellow is the bad thing bringing out something good. The woman is staring at herself in the mirror but there is no reflection. She’s blind to all things good things, and to herself.”  

Y/n looks back at the painting, “I didn’t know you to be so deep.” 

She shrugs, “It’s Jaehyun. I don’t find this art stuff too interesting but I could listen to him go on about it forever.” Her smile becomes softer, a fondness twinkling in her eyes. 

Both of them didn’t speak for a while before Jennie looked at Y/n. She was hesitant to say what was on her mind. She didn’t want to deject her friend even more. But it was on everyone’s minds. Everyone in the room, even the strangers were thinking the same thing. 

“You and Hoseok look really good together.” Jennie voiced. Y/n sighed. There it was. She knew it was coming. 

“Of course we do. We’re both dressed up nicely, matching and all that.” She retorted.

“No,” Jennie now holds her champagne glass with two hands, “You two go together. You had me fooled for a moment and I knew you were supposed to be faking it.” Jennie paused again, not sure if Y/n wanted to interject. When she didn’t Jennie continued.

“And you looked really happy.”

“It’s fake.” Y/n deadpanned, making sure to keep her voice low. 

“But you’re still happy. Hoseok looked...happy.” 

Y/n scoffed at Jennie’s words and took another sip of her champagne. 

“Jennie, please stop. Just let me enjoy it for tonight. I’ll be met with the harsh reality tomorrow. I won’t let you trick me into believing there is anything else here.” 

“I think you need to stop waiting for Hoseok to make the first move. You go for it. Something small to relay to him how you’re really feeling.” Jennie suggested, glancing behind them in time to notice Hoseok’s brief glance at Y/n. 

Y/n downed the rest of her champagne when she noticed a waiter coming by. She placed the empty glass on the waiters’ tray and caught her breath. 

“Don’t make it so you’re some girl crushing on him, make him see you,” Jennie added. 

Y/n decides not to respond, blankly staring at the artwork again. 

The slight jump from her when an arm wraps around her waist was accompanied by a small yelp. She looked up at Hoseok, who was also looking at the artwork now. 

“You scared me,” She says quietly. 

Jennie wordlessly walks off, going to find Jaehyun.

“I can’t believe you left me with those annoying women,” Hoseok said, his thumb rubbing circles on Y/n hip.

Y/n laughed, “You weren’t enjoying the conversation?” 

“Not at all. Those ladies don’t want investments from the company--”

“They want you.” Y/n looks up at Hoseok with narrow eyes.

He changes the subject, “What an interesting painting.” He sounds really intrigued. Y/n went on to repeat what Jennie had said about the painting, explaining the meaning of the black sun and the woman looking in the mirror. 

Hoseok stares on in silence, perhaps taking in Y/n words. 

“Sounds like something my father would say.” Hoseok huffs a laugh, “Stop looking at the bad! Look beyond it.” 

Y/n didn’t want to say anything, excited to hear something about Hoseok’s family. But she didn’t want to be unresponsive.

“Your father sounds like an optimistic man.” Y/n peers into Hoseok’s face.

“Optimistic and trusting.” He added.

Taking a deep breath Hoseok spoke again, “His optimism and trusting character is what killed him.”

Y/n couldn’t stop her mouth from hanging open at Hoseok’s harsh words. She stared at his profile, waiting for him to say something else. 

When he didn’t speak again, she looked back at the painting. Why did the painting suddenly look so sad?

~!~

The gala was pretty boring to Y/n. They sat, they ate and wore their fake smiles for all the people who approached them. Hoseok’s eyes were drawn to his phone every few minutes. Oh right, that’s when they were swapping the artwork. 

Hoseok didn’t look worried or stressed. Y/n knows if she was in his position, she’d be freaking out. What if something went wrong? What if they are caught? Her blood pressure was rising just at the thought. She sat a large round table with Hoseok beside her. His chair scooted close to hers. They had finished eating and watched as others danced about. 

Hoseok took one more glance at his phone, a satisfied look taking over his face. 

“Everything went well?” Y/n already knew the answer. 

“Yes, everything is finished.”

Y/n nodded, reaching forward for a glass of wine that sat on the table. She had been drinking just a bit. Not to the point of being drunk, but the buzz was there. Hoseok noticed but didn’t say anything.

“I’m going to get some air.” Y/n said quietly and rose up from her seat. The auction had already begun in a smaller room down the hallway. The night was coming to a close. It was a lovely evening and she was thankful that a lot of money would be raised for charity. 

But there was a bitter after taste to this happy night. Y/n stood at the large balcony of the venue, staring at the stars that twinkled beautifully. At that moment, she almost felt like crying. 

The violins that were sounding from inside made her feel a bit like she was in a drama. A sad one-sided love story that was taking too long to turn around. His touch still lingered all over her. It didn’t feel weird, uncomfortable or strange. It was so familiar and welcoming. 

She was desperate to break past that stone-cold wall Hoseok had up. Everyone says be aggressive! Make the first move! But the thought of harsh rejection from Hoseok was enough to leave her unmoving in her spot. The buzz from her wine was really catching up with her now, making her head feel a bit light.

“Aren’t you cold?” Hoseok asked. Y/n jumped, placing her hand over her chest.

“You need to stop sneaking up on me like that!” She exclaimed. Hoseok stood there with his hands in his pockets, his eyes focused on Y/n. She felt a bit insecure under his gaze.

“You did really well tonight,” He said walking closer to her. Y/n leaned on the ledge of the balcony, suppressing the scoff playing on her lips.

“Did I really?” She muttered to herself, just loud enough for Hoseok to hear.

He stands beside her, leaning on the ledge. His whole body faces her while she faces out towards the beautiful garden below them. Maybe it’s the wine, but out of the corner of her eyes, it seems like Hoseok is smiling. 

Her heart hummed at his closeness, and just how effortless the conversation was feeling. It’s the wine for sure. They could barely hold a conversation without bickering, now the silence between them was so relaxing.

“Everyone’s eyes were on us tonight. No one will ever suspect me once the fakes are realized.” 

“Was everyone looking at us?” She sounded far away as if she hadn’t heard much of what Hoseok said.

“You couldn’t tell? There were eyes on us everywhere we went. People aren’t used to seeing me with someone.” 

Y/n looked over at Hoseok, taking in every feature of his face for a short second before speaking.

“I guess my attention was elsewhere, cause I didn’t feel a single eye on us.” The soft tone of her voice was enough to figure out what she was saying. Y/n was too wrapped up in Hoseok to notice a judgmental look or a gossiping whisper. He knew that.

 In fact. He’s a liar. He’s lying. Were there eyes on them? Probably? Hoseok doesn’t fucking know cause he wasn’t paying attention either. He was too distracted by...the mission. Right. The mission.

“Hoseok, I have a question.” The wine was giving Y/n confidence, so she was going to go for it. 

The look in Hoseok’s eyes was it pity? Curiosity?

“Despite your underground job...you don’t seem to mind having your face in pictures and stuff. Is that safe?” Y/n set her elbow on the ledge and place her cheek on her hand. She started blinking her eyes slowly and gazing up at him. 

‘Heart eyes.’ Y/n’s heart eyes every time he is around. At first, he didn’t understand. But now, Hoseok gets it, he sees it now.

“You’re really interested?” Hoseok’s lips turned up into a smirk. 

“Yes.” She nods eagerly.

Hoseok bit his lip, a bit hesitant to say anything. 

“I work under the name ‘Seok’. The mafia leader is known as ‘Seok’ but there is no face to Seok.” He leans closer to her, his eyes looking around to make sure no one was close. 

“Ah! I see!” Y/n chimes a bit too loudly, “That’s smart!” Y/n grows quiet and her eyes widened. So knowing who Hoseok really is...is a big deal!

“And...and that alias was started by you?” 

“By my father.” Hoseok’s voice grew a bit cold and Y/n worried that she was digging too deep. She watched Hoseok’s brows furrow and decided to keep digging until he shut her down. The support of some wine glasses made her brave.

“So you took over after your father passed?” Hoseok was a bit annoyed. Not by Y/n but the pity that was dripping off her voice. He hated people feeling sorry for him. His life is his life. He doesn’t hate it, he doesn’t wish he did anything else. He’s fine where he is. 

“Yes.”

“I’m sorry about your father passing.” Y/n picked her cheek off her hand and removed her arm from the ledge. She faced the garden and sky once more. 

“He died when I was 16, I’m okay now doc.” That nickname again. The wall was being put up again. 

Y/n nodded slowly, processing what Hoseok had just said. She realized a little too late that Hoseok’s father dying when he was 16 meant that Hoseok took his father’s position of mafia head at that young age. 

“And your mother?” Y/n asked softly, her eyes staying on the twinkling stars. Hoseok’s jaw clenched the thought of his mother. Y/n was too distracted by the beautiful night sky and the shining full moon to notice Hoseok’s lack of a response.

“Tonight was fun,” Y/n starts again, sighing dreamingly, “I’m just waiting for the clock to hit midnight and for the magic to disappear.” 

Hoseok raised an eyebrow, wondering if the wine had really gotten to her. Was she just talking nonsense?

“Magic?” He scratches his head in confusion.

“For once...it felt like you didn’t hate me.” She says truthfully. Hoseok stares at her profile, a little caught off guard by how fragile her voice was. Genuine hurt.

“I don’t hate anyone.” He sounded offended. And well that was a lie. He hated two people, but only those two. Hate takes too much energy. Hate? She thinks he hates her?

Hoseok’s face scrunched up in angst, “Doc, I don’t hate you.” 

“But you hate soulmates and doctors.” She accused. Hoseok’s face fell into a frown. 

“Who told you that?” He snapped.

Y/n rolls her eyes, “What does it matter? I got the message.” 

Hoseok was getting angry. She spoke like she had him figured out. He knows he can be cold but...hate? 

“What about you doc?” His voice was venomous, “Do you really like me?”

“Yes.” She says strongly. 

“You really like me? Or do you like the image of a soulmate? The idea of a soulmate is what you like. I am not the picture-perfect guy you dreamed of, stop trying to put me in that box.”

She looks at him, scrutinizing his face. Hoseok watched her eyes move all across his face, taking in every facial feature of his. Her eyes were big and honest. He couldn’t doubt anything she’d say with a look like that.

“I do admit, I liked the idea of a soulmate. I liked the idea of meeting someone and just connecting instantly and understanding each other.” She said sternly.

“My point is proven.” Hoseok’s harsh tone and disapproving gaze weren’t scaring her. She didn’t back down, still gazing up at his face.

“But I understand now that soulmates aren’t a guaranteed thing. There aren’t fireworks the moment you lock eyes.” She looks down at her pinky, gazing at Hoseok’s initials tattoed onto her skin. 

“You were not what I expected. Your lifestyle is frightening and dangerous. You are cold, calculating, hard to read and sometimes scary. You’ve probably killed people and I’m sure committed many crimes. Hell, I sat here and played ‘couple of the year’ while the others robbed artwork.”

“Oh--” A voice said from the entryway. Both Hoseok and Y/n turn their attention to Jungkook who stared on with wide eyes. He wasn’t sure what he had walked in on, but he was hesitant to speak. The atmosphere was heavy and uncomfortable.

“Noona, I’ll be taking you home.” He announced, “Just let me know when you’re ready to go.” Jungkook’s eyes flickered between the two adults, wondering what conversation had happened before he walked in.

“Thank you Jungkook,” Y/n’s voice wavered, “I’ll be right there.” She dismissed him. Jungkook gave his boss a pointed look before turning around to go where he came from.

Y/n sighed, pushing her body off the ledge and standing straight. She smoothed her dress and brushed off any possible dirt. 

She looked back up at Hoseok and flashed a sad smile, “Despite all those things. Your lifestyle, your crimes, and your cold attitude ...I still like you.”

Hoseok scoff, “Really?” He was nearly laughing. Not because he found her confession funny, but he didn’t know what else to do. He was rendered speechless. 

“Truly.” She confirmed, not daring to look away from him. The smile remaining from his laughing fell slightly.  Y/n stepped closer to Hoseok. He watched closely, looking down as one of her hands found his. She held his hand, stretched her head up and put her lips to his cheek. She kissed his cheek briefly.

There were traces of wine on her lips, but she certainly wasn’t drunk. She had her balance. Her eyes were shown to doubt or uncertainty. The same and now familiar shampoo tickled his nose. Her hand held his tightly, it was warm and soft. 

Her lips were only on his cheek for all of 3 seconds before she pulled back and let go of his stiff hand. He felt like the side of his whole face was on fire. The skin where she touched had grown hot.

“Tonight was fun. Thank you Hoseok.” With that, she spun around and made her way back inside. Probably going to find Jungkook so she could go home. 

Hoseok stood in his spot, trying to collect his thoughts. His incoherent thoughts were being drowned out by the playing of the violins and drums from inside. 

...wait. Drums? There weren’t any drums playing. 

It was the loud and fast pounding of his heart, overshadowing his scattered thoughts and the violins.

-------

Thanks for reading! Let me know what you think!

[mhdiaries]

Freaky Fusions Cleolei Diary

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Past One

The most horrifying event in history just happened to me, and I’m still shaking in my wraps! I became fused together with that dreadful werecat, Toralei. We are both inside this same body, and it’s all her fault! Typically, she was sticking her whiskers in where they didn’t belong and got her paws on something... and, zap! Being stuck in this body makes me so clawstrophobic, I’m itching like I have fleas! Oh, how I long for a lovely scented bath, but the furball gets her tail in a bunch at the slightest suggestion of water. Hmmmm... I wonder if I can talk her into a milk bath. CdN

30 mins A.F. (After Fusion) - Today started out to be a purrfectly fun day. There were so many killer things to explore in that mad scientist’s lab, I just had to get my paws on them, you know? How was I supposed to know touching that vortex thingy would cause such a cat-astrophy. I mean, seriously! Of all people to get fused with, I have to get stuck with her royal heinous... that ghoul really strokes my fur the wrong way! TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Til Two

Unacceptable! Her pointy little ears keep popping out no matter how tightly I wrap them! And everywhere I walk, I hear that horrid tail swishing. It echoes down the halls of MH. I accidentally tripped Deuce with it, and his sunglasses slid down his nose and turned poor Hissette into stone! She was following me - I think she mistook the swishing for hissing and was jealous I might have been hanging out with another cobra. As if I would ever find one as sweet as her. I’ll miss her as long as it takes for her to de-petrify. Luckily, it looks like it’s already wearing off. CdN

75 mins A.F. - This day just keeps getting better and better. Cleo keeps smashing my ears down with her wraps! So I didn’t hear her cobra slithering around us, and when I saw it I jumped in surprise - and I accidently tripped Deuce with my tail! I feel bad poor Hissette had to get caught in the crossfire of his stone-ifying eyes, but at least we know it’s temporary. I wish I could say the same about being fused with her royal pain. Ugh. I feel a furball coming on. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Two

Well, rehearsal for BIte-Centennial truly bit. Ugh, I’m just so desperate to send that kitty back to the pound she came from. I can’t believe my ancestors had a special affinity for felines. This one in particular is nothing but a mangy little pain in my abacus. And I’ve heard more with from headless sphinx statues. Give me a loyal greyhound any day. CdN

110 mins A.F. - Hahaha! That was pawsome! Miss purrfectly proper almost fell off her makeshift horse. And then I made her dance a little jig. If she sticks with me, she might learn to have some real fun. That’ll show her for claiming I’m not a purebred werecat. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Til Three

For some reason I can’t fathom, Frankie is convinced that the Hybrids can help us learn to be good at this whole fused-together thing. They are the new monsters at MH, and they are the kids of 2 different types of monsters, so I guess they have proper credentials. But the last thing I want to do is get too comfortable in Toralei’s skin, although apparently even I don’t have a choice. I was talking to Ghoulia earlier... well, trying to, anyway. It’s really difficult to have a private conversation with the werecat listening in. But I think Ghoulia has a plan to get me - all of us, I suppose - out of this situation. In the meantime, I guess I’ll see what’s up with the Hybrids. Toralei must be rubbing off on me, because I must admit I’m curious. CdN

125 mins A.F. - I’d trust Ghoulia with all of my 9 lives. She’s the kind of ghoul who doesn’t talk much, but when she does, monster listen. Or at least they should, if they have a brain in their skull. Even Cleo seems to pay attention to Ghoulia. But for some reason, Cleo seems to think Ghoulia is her own personal treasure. I was trying hard to hear what Ghoulia had planned - and I have pretty good hearing if I do say so myself - but Cleo kept trying to shut me out, like she thought she could entomb me in some tiny part of her dark and dusty mind. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Three

Oh, my Ra! Fearleading practice was positively scarab-ulous! For the first time in a millenia, I perfectly formed the very top of the pyramid! I know, that doesn’t sound like much of an accomplishment - after all, a pyramid is right in my wheelcasket - but contrary to my usually flawless skill, I tend to be, um, shall we say, less than regal when hoisted on the backs of other ghouls. Although, I always believed that was more them than me, of course, but I digress. Anyway, not only did I fashion the top of the pyramid, from there I performed a triple pirouette, half-spin, reverse flip, over-the-crown split, and I STILL landed gracefully on my feet! My Daddy-Mummy would be so proud! The help from our new friends totes worked! CdN

165 mins A.F. - I’ve never enjoyed Fearleading practice more than I did today. I mean, jumping around and landing on your feet? That’s kitten play. Where’s the challenge in that? But it was nice not to have Cleo getting under my fur for a change. She didn’t boss me around ocne. I don’t really know what got into her. She was practically purring. Looks like we have our new friends to thank for that. TS 

Bite-Centennial Day, Four Precisely

You know, my ancestors may have had a point about this feline thing. I was feeling a bit cat-nappish after Fearleading practice. It was one thing that Toralei didn’t argue with me about. We found an empty classroom where it was nice and quiet, and stretched out near the window sill in a pool of sunlight. I must confess, it WAS soothing to have the werekitty purring and mumbling in my ear as we dozed. I slept like the un-dead. I won’t tell her, of course. Her head is already so over-inflated, it might pop. Normally, I wouldn’t concern myself with that possibility, but, now that we share the same head... CdN

195 mins A.F. - I’m feeling refreshed from a nap. I can almost deal with the rest of this Bite-Centennial. Is it just me, or has this been a really long day? Cleo doesn’t think so, but then she’s been alive forever, so I suppose one day wouldn’t seem like much to her. To me, it feels like an eternity. But the nap was nice. Cleo doesn’t smell as musty as I expected, just a bit too perfume-y. Made my whiskers twitch. But I’m really surprised by now how much I liked being tangled in her wraps, swaddled like a newborn kitten. I found myself purring out loud, and didn’t even care if she heard me. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Four

I’m royally pleased to be back to me! Now that I’ve been de-fused from the werekitty, I am feeling much more my ancient self. I feel like I just rid myself of a furball that has been gagging me all day! Toralei and I decided to each write a grain of sand’s worth here just to finish up OUR diary. In the end, it wasn’t as horrific an experience as I would have imagined, given that she usually ruffles my wrappings. It turns out we CAN get along, when we are forced to under the most dire and unexpected of circumstances, i.e. stuck in the same body. But I could really use another nap. CdN

10 mins A.d.F. (After de-Fusion) - I am so happy I feel like everything is made of catnip! I am back to being my clawsome self, and Miss Queen of deNothing is back in her own wraps. I don’t know why everyone blamed me for getting them into this. I don’t think it turned out to be so cat-astrophic after all. They would never have known how freaky fabulous things could get if I hadn’t tried a few things, right? You have to be a little curious about the world - sniff outside the box - if you want even one purrfect life, much less 9. TS

We my not be fused anymore, but we must work together more than ever! Frankie is in dire need of our help, and she is one ghoul worth crossing a desert... CdN

or getting wet for. There isn’t anything we won’t do to SAVE FRANKIE!! TS

[winetae]

:: modern loneliness

⇨ prompt : android!hoseok x reader. 2205 words. drabble with a possible follow-up. it’s been 38 days since you’ve last seen and interacted with a living, breathing person and you’re slowly going insane.

.

[Week 1 of lock down.]

At first, you’re optimistic. 

Working from home comes with its own set of non-negligeable perks. Notably, no more commute time! No more squeezing in between sweaty men on the subway during rush hour just to get home. The new arrangement means that you’re no longer obliged to wake up at the ass crack of dawn to blow-dry your hair or meticulously put on makeup while stuffing a bagel into your mouth because you’re short on time. 

On Day 1 of quarantine, you roll out of bed and don’t even bother to change out of your pajamas. It’s quite the sight. Not that you care whether or not your hair looks like a bird’s nest or if there’s a small hole in your shirt. You’d gladly take your flannel pants and old university sweatshirt with the coffee stain by the collar over the rigid pencil skirt and stupid obligatory heels they force you to wear to the office. Ironing? You don’t know her. 

That’s not to say there aren't any inconveniences but as of now, the pros outweigh the cons. For one, you’re now allowed to add as much sugar into your coffee without susciting your coworkers’ judgement. You can blast angry rap songs while finishing your reports and no one will stop you. The list goes on. 

With all this newfound time on your hands, you have no more valid reasons to procrastinate. You start off by cleaning out the kitchen cabinets you’d been meaning to re-organize for months. Then you rearrange your wardrobe, dust off the top shelves of your bookcase that you usually skip over because no one can see them, and water the potted plants you’d been neglecting. 

It feels great to be so productive. Your friends tell you via FaceConnect that your productivity streak won’t last long, but you’re quick to shake off their doubts. 

“I’m a new me!” You insist when Mia’s laughter echoes around your empty apartment. “My life is back on track. I feel like a proper adult now that I’m not struggling so much to get everything done.”

“Sure,” she humors you. “Just don’t get upset when I tell you I told you so.”

.

[Day 8 of lockdown.]

Now that your apartment is cleaner than it’s ever been, you need to find other means of entertainment. According to the internet, now is the ideal time to learn a new language or acquire a new hobby, like crocheting or playing the guitar. But while it might be technically possible to learn a language, you’re definitely not an overachiever. You’re aware of your own limits. 

Today you try your hand at baking. To some it might not seem like a big deal. But for someone like you who solely uses the kitchen to boil ramyeon packets and chop the occasional vegetable, today’s venture into the world of cooking is the equivalent of a quantum leap. 

The molten lava cakes that come out of the oven 15 minutes later don’t look like the picture advertised in the online recipe. They don’t taste like how you’d expected, either. 

You try not to be too disappointed with your failed attempt. After all, it’s only your first try. Dry cakes aren’t that bad in comparison to the horrors that could have occurred. At least nothing is burnt and your oven is still intact. You’ll try again tomorrow with hopefully a little more success.

.

[Day 16 of lockdown.]

It turns out that baking is not for you. After numerous trials and errors you learn a few days later that you have no vacation to be a baker. You end up abandoning all attempts to acquire a new hobby and instead look for new ways to pass the time. 

Thankfully, your home server is offering free VOD for a limited amount of time, so you’re not short on distractions. You consume around half a dozen cult movies, the kind people always reference and quote without actually watching, before you finally begin crossing TV series off your to-watch list. 

You yawn. It’s 9 PM on a Saturday night and you’ve just finished binging the entire season of Tiger King. It’s the third show you’ve watched from start to finish since quarantine began and now you’re wondering whether you should start a fourth. 

“Well, it’s not like I have anything better to do,” you say before a grimace crosses your face. “Oh great... Now I’m talking to myself.” 

That can’t be a good sign, you think to yourself. How long has it been since you’ve last talked to someone? You used to call your parents every day but when there’s nothing new to report, the conversations become repetitive and dull. 

You should call Mia. Just to see how she’s doing.

.

[Day 24 of lockdown.] 

YOUR WEEKLY BASKET FROM FOODCONNECT HAS ARRIVED. ALL PURCHASES WILL BE ADDED TO YOUR MONTHLY EXPENSES CARD. REMINDER THAT DUE TO THE EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES, CONNECT CARDS ARE ALLOWED A 5000 EXCESS OVER FIXED LIMIT. TOTAL EXCESS HAS NOT YET BEEN REACHED.

.

[Day 38 of lockdown.] 

You’re browsing BH, hoping to restock your vitamins. Lately you’ve been feeling tired and mentally drained, despite your workload not being what it used to be. Why you’re so exhausted is a mystery you’ve yet to solve. In all logic, your energy level should be at an all time high now that you’re working less and spending all your free time lounging on the couch surfing the internet. 

According to the national health guideline, you’re supposed to be exercising an hour a day minimum in order for your body to remain in good condition. Your BODYCONNECT watch monitor beeps every hour to remind you that you haven’t completed the suggested activity. 

Ugh. 

You press the button on the side of the watch to turn the reminder off. It’s the fifth time you’ve had to silence it today but you can’t bring yourself to work up a sweat right this minute. You keep telling yourself that you’ll exercise later but like all things lately, later ends up being never. 

Come to think of it, this isn’t the first time you’ve caught yourself slacking off. Where did all your motivation during week 1 of lockdown go? You don’t even have the strength to do ten jumping jacks anymore; it’s like your bones belong to a person three times your age - feeble and brittle and threatening to break at a moment’s notice. 

LOW ON SEROTONIN? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED. Flash promo over in 00:32:43! Limited offer while supplies last.

A bright yellow advertisement flashes on the top right corner of your screen. Intrigued, you follow the link without expecting much. The last thing you expect is to be brought directly to BH LAB’s homepage. 

“Um… I don’t think I have the budget for this…” You mutter under your breath and prepare to exit out of the page. 

Androids are usually employed by the government but the ones for sale to the general public are known to be exorbitantly expensive. 

A message reads: EXCLUSIVE 1 HOUR PROMO, 40% OFF YOUR FIRST PURCHASE. Click here for more details. Offer valid for new customers only. 

You pause and decide to click on the link. Looking around won’t hurt anyone, right? It’s not like you’ve decided to buy anything yet. 

The seven Dwellers available for sale are just as good looking as you expected them to be. Their unnaturally good looks and vibrant green eyes are what makes them easy to pick out from the crowd. 

You skim through each Dweller’s description. It seems that apart from the physical differences like their facial features and build, they each have their own specialty and characteristics. One of the best-selling models boasts the cooking ability of a 5-star chef, which you admit sounds very tempting since your skills with a knife are pathetic enough to make Gordon Ramsey cry. 

Another best-selling model specializes in...sex. You blink, your cheeks warming as you read over the model’s description (the “thick, vibrating cock that guarantees an orgasm every time!” comment makes you choke on your saliva). You can understand straight away why this particular model would be so popular. All of the models are pretty, but this one’s face doesn’t look like it’s from this world. Confinement would make anyone horny, and when promised a godly sex bot equipped with a vibrating dick, well…

Too bad you’re too tired these days to even think about having “mind-blowing sex for 5 hours straight.” Having such intense intercourse would probably make you pass out on the Dweller’s artificial cock, and there’s no way in hell you would want someone from CONNECT to intervene after receiving distressed signals from your body monitor. That would just be embarrassing. 

You’re about to exit out of the page, curiosity sated, when the last model catches your eye.

SEROTONIN BOOSTER. Low on energy? Feeling sad or depressed? Need a companion? 

This model is perfect for you! Model JHS is equipped with emotion sensors. They will fulfill your every need even when you’re not able to vocalize them. Stressed? They specialize in massages and are proficient in: Swedish massages, Aromatherapy, Shiatsu massages, Reflexology, among others. 

Personality : This model is energetic. They are very active and therefore requires a minimum 6 hours to recharge. They are extremely tactile and will easily engage in skinship such as hugs or holding hands. They are talkative and will hold passionate conversations with you about almost any subject. 

Likes : cleaning, working out

Dislikes : horror movies, strong smells

When reading the description, it feels they’re talking about a person rather than an android. You’re surprised to see that the Dwellers are programmed to have a certain personality that caters to specific needs because the only androids you’ve ever come across before are the government ones, and they’ve always been stoic and devoid of any distinguishing characteristic. 

It would be nice, you think, to have a companion. Someone you could talk to for real instead of through a pixelated hologram. As much as you enjoy your time alone, each passing day locked in your apartment makes you realize how much you long for a hug. You miss holding someone in your arms, feeling their heartbeat against your cheek and the rise and fall of their chest as they squeeze you back. 

Model JHS looks like he could fill that vacancy. Their smile is blinding, like they’re physically radiating sunshine through their expression alone. You don’t doubt their capacity to bring positive energy into your life. 

Before you can think twice about it you’re adding the model to your shopping cart. The site asks you if you want to pay more in order to customize them. For an additional fee, you’re able to tweak the Dweller’s personality or modify their physical attributes to your liking. You skip over the option. For one, you don’t have the funds to afford a vibrating dick enhancement and two, you’re more than satisfied with your Dweller as they are.

It’s not until you finish supplying all your information including your Connect Card details and shipping address that you realize what a monumental purchase you’re about to make and how empty your account will be by the end of it.

You stare at the price listed at the bottom of the screen and weigh your options. Even with the 40% reduction, it’s not a negligible sum. You could buy several models of the new Birkin bag you’d been saving up for with this money. 

Why purchase designer bags when you can’t even go out and use them? a voice argues. And - uh. Fair point. 

In any case, you’d have to stop shopping, eating out all the time and going on frivolous trips overseas. Not that you really have a choice, given the circumstances. 

You look at the laptop screen again. Are you seriously so touch-deprived that you’re willing to fork over that much money for a live-at-home android? Really? 

Fuck it. 

You click on [VALIDATE PAYMENT] before rationality has time to kick in and you change your mind again. Just as the screen changes and the new page loads, you feel your heart leap to your throat but it’s too late to back out now. 

PROCESSING ORDER …

...

CONGRATULATIONS! 

YOU HAVE SUCCESSFULLY ORDERED (1) DWELLER - JHS MODEL. WE THANK YOU FOR YOUR PURCHASE. 

(!) Your order is eligible for Instant Shipping (delivered to your door in 24 hours or less). 

(!!) Due to exception circumstances, your order might encounter delays. We are taking multiple steps to ensure the safety and hygiene of all products and shipments. For more information click here.

(!) All BH products are covered by a limited two-year warranty. Please refer to warranty details regarding your product in the Dweller E-HandBook, free for download here. Please register your product after purchase in order to qualify for future claims, returns, and support.

You expel the breath you’d been holding. Your father will throw a fit once he finds out you’ve blown all your money on a bot. The criticism is warranted.

What are you even supposed to say to defend yourself? You’ve bought a  Dweller on a whim while browsing for Vitamin C supplements.

Quarantine is really making you lose your goddamn mind, huh.

[gaiyofanfiction]

“Sudden News” Reader!Hoseok Angst/Fluff

“Sudden News”

Oneshot

Reader!Hoseok Angst/Fluff

A/N: This is another one that was requested a while ago. I really hope they forgive me! As I had said in my other oneshot, my brain was making me have second thoughts about my writing, but I am slowly getting better about not being so harsh on myself. With that said, I really do hope you enjoy it! ~ Gaishō

Disclaimer: Hobi angst is just as bad as Namjoon angst! Kpop Gods, have mercy! He is a super soft human being and this is pure fiction. 

Trigger Warning: Mentions of abortion and verbal abuse.

The alarm clock wakes you up bright and early. You’re always up before the sun rises, and by the time you get home it’s already dark. Day in and day out you work hoping to make something of yourself.

“Another day, another dollar… I guess.” You went ahead and started your morning routine. Brew coffee, pack lunch, get into scrubs, fix your bed head, and head off to work.

You work in a busy emergency room of a children’s hospital as a registered nurse. You head to the locker room to put away your things when suddenly your sunshine comes and greets you.

“Well hello beautiful, how’s my favorite nurse doing?” He says smiling with his big rosy cheeks.

You giggle. “Hobi, you know I’m always tired. These twelve-hour shifts get to you. And I’m feeling sort of sick this morning. Not sure why…”

He nudges your shoulder repeatedly. “Well, you better get your energy up because it’s already a busy morning. They just called in a massive trauma involving a school bus filled with children. Luckily they’re all alive, but many are injured pretty badly.”

“Well, that’s when you come in with your bright smiles. You always had a way with children… Immediately when they see you, they feel more at ease.”

Hoseok blushes. “Ohhh stop it you! Now get out there and work your magic!”

You smile and nod. ‘He always brought out the best in you.’

After clocking in you head over to the board to see which rooms were assigned to you and which doctors were assigned to you for the day.

You suddenly got excited. Your favorite doctor was on today. Heading over to the doctor’s station you look for him.

“Hey, Namjoon! We’re working together today!”

He turns around looking not so amused. “That’s Dr. Kim, Y/N.”

You clear your throat and straighten your back. “Yes, sir, Dr. Kim.”

He smiles and continues to give you a briefing of the different rooms. “Room three is an eight-year-old female with a broken left wrist, her vitals are stable and her parents should be arriving soon. Room five is another eight-year-old child, male, he has a head trauma with a small laceration on his forehead, vitals are also normal and his parents are at bedside. Lastly, room nine is a seven-year-old female complaining of right shoulder, right knee, and right ankle pain, vitals are fine and parents are signing registration papers.”

“Got it doc. And Hoseok is already making his rounds to the children to make sure they feel more comfortable and not so scared.”

“Good. The last thing we need are terrified children. Now please, Y/N, we have many others to attend to so lets not waste another minute.”

You nod and head to one of the rooms quickly. In room three the girl was crying terribly as she was in a lot of pain.

“Hey sweetheart, my name is, Y/N. We’re going to give you some medicine for the pain so it doesn’t hurt as much, okay?” You smile to the little girl.

She sniffles and nods back. Suddenly Hoseok is right next to you reassuring her. “Did you know she’s the best nurse here? You’re in really good hands. You’re going to be all better just like that!” He snaps his fingers and smiles to her, making her feeling a whole lot better.

You smile as you draw up the medicine for her. ‘He’s so good with kids.’

After doing what you can for room three you head over to the next room. As you’re walking over there you stop and feel your breakfast start to come. You buckle over a little bit with your hand over your stomach. ‘Why do I feel like crap today?’

You get yourself together and head into room five. You take a deep breath and start to take care of the little boy. “Heyyy big guy! How’s about we take care of that little cut of yours and put a band-aid on there? You’ve been a real brave boy today, so I think you deserve a superhero band-aid today.” 

The little boy’s face lights up. “Yes, please!”

Smiling, you pull up a rolling chair next to him and start to clean the wound. However, your stomach was starting to act up again. ‘Ugh, not right now!’

You stop cleaning and ran for the trashcan to vomit. ‘Oh god this is so embarrassing.’

The father’s child wasn’t too pleased. “Are you sure you can take care of our child? Looks like you can’t even handle a little bit of blood.”

You look up and your face is red. “I-I’m so sorry, I – ”

Namjoon comes up behind you to put a hand on your back. “I’m very sorry. She’s actually one of our best nurses, but you need not worry. I will have another nurse come right away to clean up that wound of his.” He smiles and he slowly pushes you out of the room.

He motions for you to go into one of the empty rooms and starts to examine you.

“So, how far along are you?”

His words completely catch you off guard. “W-What are you talking about?”

He continues to examine you like it’s nothing. “Your breasts are enlarged, you have abdominal bloating, and you’re vomiting.”

Completely in shock you don’t know what to say and just stare back at him with your mouth slightly agape.

Namjoon sighs. “Your examination is normal, you’re just experiencing the signs of pregnancy. Please head to the lab to get an instant pregnancy test done. And don’t worry, I won’t tell Hoseok.” He winks and exits the room.

Pregnant!? No way! You think about all the times you have had sex with Hoseok and every time he pulled out. At least that’s what you thought. ‘Wait, that one night we were a little drunk…’

Your face drops right into your hands as you beat yourself up about it. Sitting there you finally get up and head over to the lab.

“Hey, Y/N. Got some kid’s blood you need me to spin?”

It was one of your good friends that worked there, but you weren’t too happy to see here; not like this anyway.

“Uh, hey Lisa. I need you to do a favor for me real quick, but you can’t tell anyone, alright?”

She tilts her head in worry. “Everything alright, girl?”

You lean in and whisper to her, “can you get me a urine pregnancy test, please?”

She looks at you in shock and was about ready to scream. “I knew it!!! You had that glow when you came into work today!”

“Shoosh! Jeez, Lisa. Please, just give me one already will ya?”

She snickers and secretly slides over one. “Awww, a little baby Hobi is in your tum tum.” 

You send a glare and she skips off. ‘Oh man, I really hope I’m not.’

Walking quickly to the nearest bathroom you lock the door and sit on the toilet just staring at the stick. The stick that is going to tell you whether or not you’re pregnant. Your hands were shaky as you rip open the plastic. 

After peeing on the stick you wait. But, you couldn’t just sit and wait so you paced the bathroom like a frantic mother waiting for the status of their child. You look at your wristwatch and see three minutes has passed.

You slowly walk up to the stick with your eyes closed. Taking a deep breath in you count to three and open your eyes.

Two. Pink. Lines.

They were the most darkened pink lines you have ever seen on a test. You shake your head and head over to the lab again and request another one. 

Lisa laughs. “Girl, those lines don’t lie!” She wiggles the stick in front of you.

You snatch it up quickly and put it in your pocket. “Shutup!” You walk away angrily.

Doing the same steps you wait another three minutes hoping the first one was faulty. All you could hear was Lisa’s voice uttering the same words again and it was making your anxiety shoot through the roof.

Two. Pink. Lines. ‘DAMNIT!’

Unsure of how to feel you throw the test into the trash and lean against the wall. ‘How am I supposed to tell him!? We have only been dating for a couple months.’ 

Realizing you’ve been away from your duties for some time you gather yourself together once again and head out to finish the rest of your work.

You walk down the hall and see Hoseok in one of the patient rooms and stop to listen.

“Oh! Why such a young and beautiful girl such as you shouldn’t be crying! No tears my dear child!”

Hoseok sat on the edge of the bed next to the young girl as he cradled her little hands in his. The way he so effortlessly calms children is something not everyone possesses. It even made you feel calmer. 

Still around the corner where he can’t see you, you start to rub your stomach and smile. ‘Maybe telling him won’t be so bad.’

You worked the rest of your shift as you normally would, and luckily you didn’t vomit anymore. Heading back to the locker room you start to pack your things and look around to try to find Hoseok.

Spotting him from the backside you walk up to him and tap his shoulder. He whips around and holds a rose out to you. “A pretty flower for m’lady.”

You smile and sniff the rose. “Aww, thanks babe! That’s so sweet.”

He lends his arm and escorts you out of the hospital. You start to feel uneasy again, but finally ask him. “H-hey, Hobi honey. If you don’t have any plans tonight I was thinking of renting a movie and we can have some popcorn at your place?”

Without a moments hesitation he claps his hands with excitement. “Of course! It’s about time we had a good cuddle… besides these lips of mine have been deprived of a good make out session.” He puckers up his lips towards you. 

You laugh and push his face playfully. “Silly, I’ll see you in a couple hours alright?”

“I look forward to it, my love.”

You both parted ways. The drive home felt long and your mind was so preoccupied with the news that you almost ran a red light. ‘C’mon, Y/N. You can do this.’ 

Once you got home you started to get into some more comfortable clothing and get things ready for your little date. Your phone dings, it was a text from Hoseok. 

You read it in your mind with his sweet voice: “I got the fluffy blankets out and already lit some aromatherapy candles for you. Your favorite ones ;)”

He always knew how to make you smile. You started to feel a bit more confident and hopeful that telling him the news won’t be as bad as you think.

Arriving to his apartment he was already waiting for you at the door. “Ah, the princess has arrived.” He bows and lets you in. You notice the couch had a ton of pillows and comfy blankets and it almost made you cry at how sweet his gestures are.

You sat on the couch and hand him the movie. “It’s a comedy. I figured we could use a good laugh with how stressful our job can be.”

Hoseok nods several times. “You always pick the good ones!”

Watching him set up the DVD player you start to fidget with the blanket. ‘Well, I might as well tell him. No reason to beat around the bush.’

“U-Uhm, Hobi, sweetie. I was wondering if we could talk.”

He continues to set up the movie. “What’s up, hun?”

You gulp and hesitate. “I-I well uh, er. Okay, this isn’t easy for me to tell you, but… we have slept together a few times and well, that one night we were pretty drunk and kind of don’t recall everything…”

He stops and drops the movie case. His back still faced you. “You’re pregnant.”

You let out a big sigh. “Yes. I’m pregnant.”

Suddenly you get a reaction from him you didn’t expect. Silence. You get up from the couch and try to put a hand on his shoulder, but he quickly pulls away from you.

“H-Hobi, please. Tell me what you’re thinking.”

“Abort it,” he says without even stuttering.

You felt a sharp stab in your heart. “Y-You can’t be serious? You want me to get rid of the baby!?” 

His voice got louder and more aggressive. “I’m not going to be a father. Hell no! You’re going to get rid of that thing as soon as possible. It’s not my fault you were irresponsible that night.”

His words were so shocking that you couldn’t believe he would say such a thing. “Now hold on, it takes two to tango. We both had a little too much that night and just let loose not thinking of the consequences. It never crossed either of our minds that maybe I should have gotten a plan-b pill or anything.”

Hoseok was starting to freak out and was pacing the living room. “I thought you were on the freaking pill!”

You start to stammer. “I am! But not everything is 100% like that. This happens more than you think.” 

Hoping to calm him down a little you try to grab his hands, but he immediately pushes you to the ground.

“Get your fucking hands off me! You’re not having that damn child and this shit between us is over. Get out of here.”

On the floor crying your body starts to shake. “Hobi, please. You’re just startled from the news. We can make this work! I know you’ve only been my boyfriend for only a couple months, but –”

He starts to laugh. “Boyfriend? Sweetie, I’m not your boyfriend.”

The tears become floods flowing from your red eyes. You didn’t even say anything back, but just ran out the door.

This is not the Hoseok you knew and fell for. ‘What kind of monster says those things!?’

You cried the whole way home and pretty much cried yourself to sleep that night.

Waking up early that next morning you had morning sickness again. Hugging the porcelain throne you think about his words again only making you feel sicker. 

“There’s no way I’m going to work like this.” You called today and the next few days off. Luckily there are plenty of interns that for you to miss a few days wouldn’t change much.

Curling back up into bed you just stare at the wall. You were incredibly restless, but you didn’t know what else to do. So, for most of the day you moped in bed, thinking.

Your phone rings, you had hoped it would be Hoseok, but it was actually Namjoon. Surprised as you were, you picked up the phone. “Dr. Kim? Something the matter?”

“Yes! I have all these confused interns running my ER and not my favorite nurse. How come I don’t see you on the schedule for the next few days?”

“Well, telling Hoseok didn’t go as smoothly as I had hoped.”

“What!? Do I need to talk some sense into him for you?”

You giggle. “No, no. It’s alright, Dr. Kim. I know you’re close with him, but I think he needs his space. But, thank you.”

“Hm. Well, I hope you feel better soon. I can’t work this ER without you!”

“Don’t worry. I’ll be back in a few days.”

“Alright. Call me if you need anything.”

You both hang up the phone and you go back to moping. Eventually your eyes start to get heavy and you let yourself fall asleep.

“Hmm… Hobi, please, listen…Hobi!” You wake up in a panic. ‘Just a bad dream.’ Checked your phone and you didn’t have any messages or calls. But, you weren’t really surprised.

It felt like you haven’t showered in days so you started to run some water. After it got warm you stepped in and let the water hit your body. Standing there you started to think about Hoseok’s reaction again. ‘Did he really mean what he said?’

All of a sudden you felt a sharp pain in your abdomen. It almost made you drop to the floor of the tub. Is that… That’s blood! Blood was trickling down your legs. You immediately stopped your shower and messaged Namjoon that you were heading over to the ER right away.

Walking in looking like a mess in your pajamas and with wet hair, Namjoon sees you and quickly brings you to one of the rooms for an examination.

“Sorry we have to see each other on these terms,” he says as he starts to check your abdomen.

“I know… I’m so afraid of losing the baby.”

“Oh, so did Hoseok change his mind?”

You look away with sadness in your eyes. He read your face and continued his examination in quiet.

“Alright. I’ll need to do a pelvic exam. Just try to relax and take slow, deep breaths.”

Your breathing was shaky and you couldn’t stop your lips from quivering.

“You’re took quiet down there… Is there something wrong?”

He finishes the exam and sighs in relief. “Quite the opposite. You were just having some spotting. It’s normal. However, if there is ever a time where it becomes frequent or more blood than usual, you come see me right away, alright?”

You popped up quickly and hug Namjoon crying. “Thank you, Dr. Kim.”

He pats your back and smiles. “I need to get back to my patients, I’ll see you on your next shift. Take it easy.” He exits the room.

You had just put your pajamas back on when Hoseok comes dashing through the curtain.

“Is everything alright!? I heard you were here.” His breathing was rapid as if he just ran.

“What’s it to you? Thought you didn’t care about me or the baby.”

He runs his fingers through his hair and sighs. “C-Can we talk? Please?”

You were immediately irritated. “Oh now you want to talk? Seriously? I begged you to talk to me that night and instead you pushed me to the ground!”

Hoseok drops to his knees and grabs your hands. You look into his eyes and see that he hasn’t got much sleep and probably has been crying since they are red.

“Y/N, please. I want to apologize.”

You grunt, but let him talk.

“My behavior was way out of line. I shouldn’t have done that to you. But, I panicked. Hearing those words come out of your mouth made me freeze and say things that I really shouldn’t have said…”

You continued to glare at him, but motioned for him to keep talking.

“Y/N, I really do want a child with you. I want to be the child’s father. I was just terrified at the thought I could be a horrible father.”

You started to laugh. “You’re kidding, right? You’re incredible with children, Hobi.”

He sighs deeply. “I know this probably sounds stupid, but even though I was hired as an entertainer for children, I felt it was the only thing I knew how to do. I don’t know how to actually care for them. What if I break them?”

You laugh some more and place your hands on his cheeks to lift his face up. “Hobi sunshine, that is where I come in. You heal their soul, and I heal their bodies. We’re perfect for each other and the baby. Besides, kids are so resilient! You know that.”

Hoseok’s face lights up as he smiles. “I want to have this baby with you, Y/N.”

The tears start flowing, and just when things were good, they got better. Hoseok pulls out a fluffy teddy bear holding a big red heart. “This will be our child’s first toy. You like it?”

You cry even more and attack him with a big hug. “I love it!”

*Clap, clap, clap* “Awww, see? It all worked out.”

You growl as you see Lisa peering through the curtains.

“Let me guess, you’re the one who told Hoseok that I was here, huh?” 

She puts both her hands up. “No way, it was this guy!”

Namjoon pushes the curtain to the side and leans against the wall. “I may have told him that you weren’t doing so well.”

You walk up to him and punch his shoulder playfully.

“Hey! I’m a doctor. I need this arm!”

The room was filled with laughter. Every one just smiled at one another. It was the perfect ending to a perfect moment.

Hoseok hugged you from behind and started to gently rub your belly. His face was close to yours as he whispered sweet words.

“I promise to be the best father to our child. And I promise to be there for you every step of the way, now and forever.”

[nsschaintale]

Link 6: Justice For Some

Chaintale Extra

Chain Link: The Fallen Royal Scientist

Link 6: Justice For Some

It had been several years since the last human had fallen and things seemed to be calm. The Underground has seen some changes over the years including the induction of a new leader of the Royal Guard. A competition has taken place as the previous leader Keldin was retiring due to family and looking for a replacement. The one who came out on top was Ketju Acheris. With her strength and determination, she managed to outlast the other monsters and become the new Head of the Royal Guard. This had also inspired the younger monsters to join up and train hard so they might one day take over, should she do the same thing. This includes Catena himself, who enthusiastically trains at every waking hour in hopes of taking that position. Tether is happy that his younger brother got something to look forward to, even if it has him on wit's end with worry at the thought of a human who might come down and do harm to everyone. At least with the Royal Guard around, he shouldn't have much to worry about. Now about Gadwyn, Tether was noticing something off about him. Knowing that the Project Barrier Break is two humans away from completion, he had always wondered why he had come home late nearly every night or early morning. He always chalked it up to work holding the scientist at the laboratory, but even he would at least try to come home to rest. Perhaps he's using the lab beds? That's what he figured, but there was this nagging feeling that there was something else. Especially when he caught a strange look on his father's face a few times while coming across him. Remembering what Gadwyn told him and Catena years prior, Tether started to think that his father has a plan outside of the project and it may have to do with his hatred towards humans as evidenced by Percy's cruel death. Feeling like he's overthinking things, Tether got ready to meet his father at the lab for work. Apparently, there's news of a new intern joining up and he had to go meet them with the others. Tether spotted Gadwyn and the group near the elevator, standing by a chubby yellow lizard girl with her two front teeth poking out from her snout, and wearing black half-framed glasses, a white blouse with pink ruffles on the seams of the collar, sleeves, and bottom, a yellow line on the sleeves, a gold bracelet, and khaki cuffed capris. She had on a chain lanyard that has her photo ID that has “INTERN” on it.

Gadwyn: Everyone, I'd like you to meet Kusari Allori. She will be interning here for the time being.

Kusari (adjusts her glasses): H-Hi, it's nice to m-meet you all. (gives a little bow)

Gadwyn: You can do introductions on your own time, but for now, we need to begin our tasks for today. Tether!

Tether (jolts): Guh, yeah?!

Gadwyn: You will be helping Miss Kusari out by giving her a tour of the facility. Once done, bring her to us so we can teach her about the project.

Tether: Yes sir...

Once everyone dispersed to their places, Tether and Kusari began the tour by heading north of the elevator.

(Tether and Kusari walked down the hall past a few blank screen panels and entered the resting area where three rows of three beds are present; a pair of ficus plants are seen in the far bottom left corner, a small clock is hung on the right side of the doorway, and a panel with green lit letters are seen)

Tether: This is pretty self-explanatory, this room is where we sleep at if we're too tired to go home after working. It happens a lot.

Kusari: Won't they get disturbed while sleeping?

Tether: It depends if you're a heavy sleeper.

(Tether and Kusari exits the resting area and makes their way further past it, arriving at the mirror room; three full-body mirrors have two blank panels between them and five more mirrors are at the opposite end; across the first three mirror is a long empty table)

Tether: This is the mirror room. ...I actually have no idea what they do in here.

Kusari: Um, maybe it's for checking to see if your clothes are all right?

Tether (shrugs): I dunno. Maybe.

(Tether and Kusari exits the mirror room and heads up into the hall leading to the central laboratory; they arrive at the observatory of the central lab room where it has a large balcony area walled off by safety windows and double doors leading into the laboratory)

Tether: That's the central laboratory. It's where all of our experiments take place. Those of us not involved in the project can observe from the outside. Looks like they're about to start another experiment. You'll get to see it closer if you join us after your internship.

Kusari: Okay.

(Tether and Kusari exits the observatory and goes right, entering the fan room; past the blank panel is three rows of 8 giant fans and a control switch)

Tether: This is the fan room. It basically keeps the lab cool through the ventilation, since it's in a hot place.

Kusari: O-Of course!

(Tether and Kusari leave the fan room and walk past the lab; they arrive at the shower area, three separate doors has a male symbol on the first door, a question mark on the second door, and a female symbol on the third door)

Tether: This is the shower area. Men on the left, women on the right, unknown in the center. Plenty of showers inside. They're rarely used but again, they're here in case someone gets stuck here.

(Tether and Kusari leave the shower area and they arrive at the extraction machine; it's a large steel machine that looks like an ant's head in design, four pipes rise into the ceiling and two additional ones connect from the sides of the eyesockets to the mandibles; a large section of the floor is missing and they can see the rest of the lab on the lower level; a blank panel and a door is seen on the left side)

Tether: This is the extraction machine. We've caught some humans over the years, so we used this to extract essences from their Souls.

Kusari: Sounds dangerous...

Tether: To the humans, yeah. To us, I don't know. I've never messed with it myself.

Kusari: Why is part of the floor missing?

Tether: The machine lowers into the lab below when in use.

Kusari: Oh. (walks over to the edge and spots two monsters working on the machinery below before joining Tether again)

(Tether and Kusari entered the room by the machine and on the opposite wall of the room, they see a TV stand with a CRT TV on top, a shelf underneath with a VCR machine, and flanking the setup are two bookshelves, filled with books and VHS tapes)

Tether: This is the TV room. Nothing too interesting about it.

Kusari (walks up to the bookshelves): Hmm... What are these?

Tether (follows): Those video tapes? I'm not sure. I've never watched them, but Dr. Gadwyn said one of them inspired part of the Project.

Kusari: Oh! I-It must've been something amazing to do something like that.

Tether: Must be.

(Tether and Kusari exits the TV room and walks past the machine, arriving at the break room; the floor is blue tiled, 6 square tables are arranged with two pairs lined up to make two parallel rectangles and the other two are in opposite corners; five grey refrigerators line the back wall, the center one flanked by two blank panels and the fridge closest to them has a microwave in the wall by it)

Tether: This is where we take breaks. Plenty of fridges to put stuff in. Just.. (sighs in disgust) ..make sure you don't accidentally leave any food and side experiments in them.

Kusari: ...I...take it you know from experience...?

Tether (squints): Yeeaaah.... I may not have a nose, but the sensation of being near it was just.... (shivers in disgust)

Kusari: How b-bad was it....?

Tether: The entire facility was shut down for a week just to remove the fridge and clean the very spot it was on, then a month just make sure nothing was contaminated. Pa- uh, Dr. Gadwyn was absolutely livid during that time. I couldn't get the sensation out of my mind for a week, it was gods-awful.

Kusari: Th-That does sound awful!

Tether: Ugh, it was. We were all busy at the time for the project, so I figure someone left something in there and forgot it. Although....forgetting something for a year isn't exac-

Kusari: A YEAR?! How has no one noticed that?! Did no one check any of the fridges during that time?

Teher: I'm still wondering that myself... Come on, we better get moving.

Kusari: Urgh...

(Tether and Kusari backtracked to the elevator and went left; they arrive at the door to the power room and entered; it's a wide area where at the opposite end, a tall machine is hooked up to 9 pipes and the lights on the two headlights, the container, and the panel are glowing a soft red)

Tether: This is the power room. It may not look like much, but it's what keeps the place running using the energy  gathered at the Core.

Kusari: Oooh... (walks up to the machine) Is there something in there?

Tether: I don't know. I never really go near it.

Kusari (backs away): Ah! M-Maybe I shouldn't go near it th-then..

(Tether and Kusari leave the power room and arrive at the infirmary area; to the left side of the five doors present are three sinks and the right side of the fifth door is a blank panel; the doors lead into rooms with medical beds and equipment)

Tether: This is the infirmary area where we take Fallen monsters into individual rooms and try to revive them.. Luckily, we don't use this place as much, but it's here just in case.

(Tether and Kusari went back to the elevator and went south; they arrive at what looks like a makeshift morgue, the right wall has several metal drawers with different labels on the front; the labels have the ID code for the humans marked; they stopped in front of the drawers)

Tether: This is... I guess this is where we've been keeping the human bodies...

Kusari: L-Like...actual human bodies, or...

Tether: Yep...

Kusari: ..They're actually in there...?

Tether (pulls open the drawer labeled “KI06”; the body of Kindel lay on the platform): This one's the last one captured.

Kusari: Whoa... (adjusts her glasses) This is what a human looks like?

Tether: There's different ones. (opens the drawers one by one, hesitating on PE05; pulls open the drawer)

Kusari: Oh, whoa! You're right! Th-There are different ones. Although... They look smaller than I imagined...

Tether: We suspect that they're younger versions of humans, kids maybe, but they did show powers stronger than our own.

Kusari: Ah, I heard! I remember hearing rumors of a monster helping a human years ago. Pretty silly, right?

Tether: Yeah, it is... (stares at Percy's body for a moment before closing the drawers)

(Tether and Kusari returned to the elevator and went up to the lobby)

Tether: Of course, you've seen the lobby. It's where the families and visitors of the scientists come to. There's a little play area for the kids to stay if their parents don't have babysitters.

Kusari: Oh, that's cute. (sees a multiple-eyed monster approach her and Tether)

Multi-eyed Monster: Ah, young Tether, it has been a long while. You've grown up handsomely.

Tether: Ah, Ms. Bakersol, it really has been a while. Kusari, this is Ms. Bakersol.

Kusari: Hello.

Ms. Bakersol: Ah, you're a new face, hello! Are you here for a tour?

Kusari: Oh, y-yes, I'll be interning in the lab soon.

Ms. Bakersol: How lovely! I hope Tether isn't causing too much trouble.

Kusari: Eh?

Ms. Bakersol: He used to be a little troublemaker, but I'm glad he's found something to focus on.

Tether: M-Ms. Bakersol...!

Ms. Bakersol: Ahohoho! Ah, how is your brother? Is he doing well?

Tether: Yep. Still doing basic training and errand work, but he's getting up there.

Kusari: Brother?

Tether: Yeah, younger. His name's Catena. He's a trainee in the Royal Guard.

Kusari: Oh wow! Wait, the Royal Guard, the one Ketju leads now?

Tether: The one and only. Why?

Kusari (blushing): O-Oh, nothing! Just wondering!

Tether: …?

Ms. Bakersol: Well, I won't keep you two long. I got some little ones to watch over. (a few eyes turn to look behind her at a little Loox Eyewalker monster) Ethan, what did I say about not sharing?

Ethan (startled then glances around sheepishly): To not do it again.

Ms. Bakersol: Yes, now play nice. (turns eyes back to Tether and Kusari except one) Ah, anyway, I'll let you return to your tour. Have fun and a pleasure meeting you, Ms. Kusari. Have a good time, Tether. (returns to the play area)

Kusari: Th-Thank you. ...You were a troublemaker?

Tether (flustered): W-We should go to the Core, yea?

Kusari: … (giggles)

(Tether and Kusari left the building towards a tall elevator north of the crossroad, going to Level R3; they were greeted by a few monsters who were leaving the Core as they crossed the bridge and reached the lit entrance; once through and after taking the elevator, they went left and arrive at the Core)

Tether: Welcome to the Core.

He had heard that the Core had sections that are interchangeable in order to confuse humans, and the duo got a demonstration of such a thing. Kusari was worried about the liquid running below the area, but Tether explained that it's a form of geothermal energy that is converted into electrical energy that powers the entire Underground. The safety railings along the paths are there to keep everyone from accidentally falling into the liquid. They noticed huge blocks of ice falling into it and Tether mentioned how the ice keeps the liquid cool. Kusari asked where the ice came from, and Tether had notice someone in Snowdin throwing ice into the river, so he assumed that was where the ice came from.

Tether: Now that that's done, let's head back so you can start your interning.

Kusari: Okay. Th-Thank you for the tour.

Tether: No problem.

(Tether and Kusari return to the lab; sees Gadwyn)

Gadwyn: Ah, there you are. I take it the tour went well?

Kusari: Yes sir! This place is really interesting!

Gadwyn: I appreciate your enthusiasm, Miss Kusari. For the time being, you'll be running errands for us, so there are some areas that are off-limits.

Kusari: Ah, I-I was wondering why there were places Tether didn't take me.

Tether: Yeah, can't take the new ones to them. Safety reasons.

Kusari: Oh, that makes sense.

Gadwyn: Right, well, let's get you set up for your first set of tasks for today.

Kusari: Yes sir!

Gadwyn: Tether, we've prepared for our next round of experiments to begin. (turns away) I expect you to be there.

Tether: Yes, sir...

Kusari: ….?

The next few weeks were spent by the scientists in conducting experiments and Kusari running errands. As Kusari was on her way to deliver some documents to Gadwyn, an alarm sounded.

Kusari (almost drops the folder): Wh-What is that?!

Scientist1: It's the alarm!

Scientist2: A human has come!

Kusari: A human? Ah, that must mean it'll end up like the others Tether showed me... (sees Gadwyn walking by) Oh, it's Dr. Gad- (sees a strange look on his face, like a twisted grin) That....was strange.

This human in particular is a dangerous one. Her green eyes were flaring in ferocity as she raced throughout the underground. She spouted demands as she faced the monsters. When she was chased by Darius, she managed to shoot him in the leg, taking him down. She was able to get through Snowdin into Waterfall, running into Ketju. Ketju faced the girl and told her that she must give her Soul up so the monsters can go free. The girl, Judy as she gave her name, answered Ketju with a shot, taking her left eye out. While Ketju writhed on the ground in pain, Judy made her escape to Hotland. This put the monsters in the lobby into a panic and they all went into the main lab area to hide until she passed through. Judy looked around to find the monsters, but found nothing and moved on. She continued on and ran into two Royal Guard soldiers. She faced off against them, firing a shot at one of them and escaping deeper into Hotland. She met Kæde and fired a warning shot, hitting a spider in the process. She managed to get far enough to enter the Core and felt like she was getting close until she heard the sound of wind pulsating. A large magic circle appeared before her and rings of chains pulsed around it a few times before Gadwyn appeared within, a Soul container tied to his hip.

Gadwyn (steps away from the circle as it vanishes): A pleasure to meet you, human, but I'm afraid your journey ends here. If you would be so kind as to give up your Soul-

Judy: Never! Now tell me where the missing children are!

Gadwyn: Oh? And why do you care?

Judy: Because their families need them back, and justice will be served to you monsters!

Gadwyn stared at Judy for a while before he scoffed at the answer.

Gadwyn: Justice, you say? (chuckles darkly) Funny you should say that. You say that justice will be served for the humans, but what about our justice?

Judy: Your justice? The monsters' justice?

Gadwyn: Yes. The humans attacked us first and took so much from us. Took many of our friends and loved ones. Took the life of a monster prince who only wanted to return the body of a human to the surface. Took away our hopes and dreams. Betrayed us all...

Judy: Well, what about the missing children? They did nothing wrong! I'm sure they only want to see what's down here!

Gadwyn: Really? I've no idea of what became of the monsters in the Ruins when the little boy arrived, but explain to me why a young girl punched her way through the snow fields, taking out any monster who faced her?

Judy: Because the monsters attacked her!

Gadwyn: The girl in the tutu who tried to buy her freedom with the truth of harming a monster?

Judy: I...well-

Gadwyn: The bespectacled boy who used his words to trick monsters to his side?

Judy: That's just-

Gadwyn: Or the boy whom I've heard ate a monster?

Judy: Guh, but that could be a rumor!

Gadwyn: A rumor? Oh, I'm afraid you're wrong. It may not look like it, but there are many eyes in the Ruins and one certain spider queen who has connections...

Judy: But-

Gadwyn: In addition! There are also the humans from centuries prior that were once our friends, but turned against us. Therefore, humans like you are not to be trusted. I almost lost one of my sons to one. I lost my beloved wife to the Seven Magicians from years ago. (muttering under his breath) Mu anamchara Alysída... (glares at Judy) Tell me, after hearing what I've said.. How does it feel to be an enemy of ours?

Judy: I... How am I an enemy to them? They're the ones who are our enemy! They know where the kids are, keeping them trapped for so long. Yet he says the humans harmed them first. That's not right, the monsters are the bad guys and bad guys need to be punished with swift justice! …..But if the humans really did do those things... (stares at Gadwyn) ...Is he like a hero to the monsters and am I...the bad guy...? (shakes her head) No, that's not righ-

Gadwyn: It appears that you are lost in thought. Allow me to give you a choice. Surrender your Soul and I'll help return your body to the surface. Refuse, and I'll have it removed by force. What say you?

Judy (aims her gun at him): I chose neither. (shoots at him)

Gadwyn (sidesteps, dodging the bullet): I'll ask again. What say you to my options? (approaches her calmly)

Judy (checks her gun, seeing no bullets in the chamber): Darn it, I'm out!

Gadwyn: You're out of bullets, it seems.

Judy (aims her gun): I gotta try...

Gadwyn (stops a few feet away): Human, don't make this hard for yourself. You do realize- (senses something) This feeling.... Magic? (notices something glowing inside the barrel) What is that?

Judy: Take this! (pulls the trigger)

To the duo's surprise, a bullet of yellow light shot at Gadwyn, grazing his right arm and startling him.

Gadwyn (grabs his arm): AAAGH!

Judy: Oh... OH! I did that? (gasp) Let me try it again!

Gadwyn (enraged; a pair of dark blue chain decals appear on his face, one running up the right side of his skull from his eye and one down on the left side from his eye to his mouth): You damned hell spawn, you've made your choice. (lifts his hand above his head) Vester!!

(a large lupine skull with a pair of wavy horns and chains attached to them appeared beside Gadwyn)

Judy (aims her gun at the skull): What-

Gadwyn (levels his hand with his glasses; closes his hand into a fist): Fire.

The pain Judy felt as the blast let loose by the skull hit her was immeasurable. Her screams were drowned out by the roar of the blast. Once it was over, Judy was on the ground, burned and bleeding. She didn't want to join the five children who fell before her. She was determined to live. Even through her pain, Judy aimed her gun. Even through her agony, she pulled the trigger.

Nothing happened.

She was really out of bullets.

And out of life.

Gadwyn (shivering): …...... (gasps sharply) I... (clears his throat and straightens himself up) That was...Well. I hope I didn't go too overboard. (looks at his grazed arm) That magic bullet she shot.... Could it be that-

CoreRoyalGuard1: Dr. Gadwyn!

CRG2: Are you all right!?

Gadwyn: Yes, I'm fine. It's just a scratch.

CRG2 (grimaces at Gadwyn's wound): Are you sure?

Gadwyn: Yes. (looks at Judy's body) Hmm, hopefully, we can get something from this one. (sees the yellow Soul rise from the body as he detaches the container from the chain; captures the Soul in it and stares at it, a crooked smile gracing his face) Just one more and-

CRG1: Sir?

Gadwyn (jolts): …..Right. One of you help carry the body to the laboratory, please. Carefully.

CRG1 (looks at the body then at his partner): You wanna do it?

CRG2: I'm not touching it.

CRG1: Well, I don't wanna either-

Gadwyn (glaring): Gentlemen.

CRG2: R-Right! (hurriedly picks up Judy's body with caution)

The trio made their way back to the lab through Gadwyn's teleportation circle. During this, the monsters in the lab had calmed down from nearly encountering Judy. As the monsters talked among themselves and leaving the main lab, the scientists were preparing for the arrival of Gadwyn and the body.

Kusari: Th-That was so close! We almost got attacked by that human! I hope D-Dr. Gadwyn is okay, right, Tether? …..  (looks around not seeing him) Tether? (walks off to find him, meeting another scientist)

Scientist: Oh! Kusari, Dr. Gadwyn just arrived and wants everyone to meet him in the lab.

Kusari: Okay! I'm g-gonna find Tether and tell him! (rushes off to find Tether; finds him in the morgue looking at a body) Eh? (watches him from outside of the door) What's he doing?

Tether (looking at Percy's body): Another human got caught just now... Just one more and we monsters will be free.... That would've been nice...if there was another way for us to go back to the surface without killin' anyone.. (looks away for a moment before looking at Percy's face again) If only Papa didn't kill you, you could've helped us tell our story like you wanted, the truth of the war... You could've...We could've returned home...to the surface... (sighs) When we get out of here, I hope King Kette will allow me to bury you somewhere, rather than have you locked up in this place. (moves a few loose strands of hair from Percy's face) I think it's time for me to go. I really don't want to leave, but I'll have to let you back in now. (moves to push Percy's drawer back in the locker; gets startled by Kusari's presence and the sounds of monsters moving around somewhere in the lab) Aah! H-How long were you there!?

Kusari: Eep!! S-S-Sorry! I was coming t-to get you because Dr. Gadwyn w-wanted everyone to meet up with him!

Tether: Ooh... I'll, um, be there...

Kusari: Eh?

Tether: What?

Kusari: Y-You have tears... You're crying for the human?

Tether: Huh? (rubs his sleeve over his eyes and looks at it, seeing blotches and smudges of wet spots on it) Ah... (roughly rubs his eyes and holds his arm behind his back) That's, uh, I had something in my eyesockets..

Kusari: Are you sure? You were talking to that human- (covers her mouth)

Tether: …...You heard that much...huh..?

Kusari: …. (nods) Yes, s-sorry...

Tether: ...It's fine. (looks back at Percy) His name's Percival.

Kusari: Oh? Did you name...him?

Tether: No, he already had that name. I don't know the others' true names since they were only labeled by their Soul Trait, like Percy's is PE05 for Perseverance.

Kusari (approaches the body, stopping by Tether): So, the humans have names?

Tether: Pretty much.

Kusari: What's special about this one?

Tether: He.......was the first human friend I had, as far as I remember...

Kusari (surprised): R-Really?

Tether: Yeah. Met him in the snow fields. I couldn't really place it, but I felt compelled to help him. Dr. Gadwyn told me that he could've had the ability to brainwash others, but I didn't feel any sort of magic being used on me that would cause that.

Kusari: Then...t-the rumors about the monster helping the human was...

Tether: Yeah, it was me...

Kusari: Oh.... Do you know why he came down here?

Tether: To learn about our history. He also found out that it was the humans that started the war years ago, not us. He was going to return to the surface and show others his findings. Even made a promise to do so. But....

Kusari: He got killed...

Tether: Choked to death. Saw it happen on the monitor.

Kusari: ….He sounds like a nice human.

Tether: ..He was. His words felt genuine. I felt like I could trust him. And it seemed like the humans only know one side of the story. If Percy was alive, he would be trying to convince people that we're not as bad as they thought. But at this rate.... (pushes the drawer close) ...they're likely to be closed-minded...

Kusari: Oh...

Scientist: Oh, there you two are! Dr. Gadwyn's looking for you two!

Kusari: Oh, were we gone that long?! W-We're coming! (rushes out with the scientist)

Tether (follows Kusari before stopping by the door; looks back at the locker): ….Sleep well... (leaves)

Once the duo managed to meet up with Gadwyn and the other scientists, they were promptly reprimanded for being late. Afterwards, Kusari was sent off to do errands and Tether stayed to help with the experiments. Judy's body was covered in burns and open wounds from Vester's shrapnel-laced blast. The group had to salvage as much of her as possible, but they did learn how injuries like what she has could be made. As they studied her body, there was a commotion in the main lobby.

Gadwyn: What in the Underground is going on?

When he and the group arrived in the lobby, they saw Ketju and Darius being wheeled into the ER area.

Tether: What the hell?

Kusari: Ketju!

Gadwyn: …..Right. Any healers that are present, please go tend to Lady Ketju and Darius immediately.

Kalina: Right away! (rushes off after the monsters taking Ketju and Darius)

Tether: I hope they'll be all right. Looks pretty serious. (glances at Kusari; notices her shivering) Kusari?

Kusari: …..

Tether (looks at Kusari): ...Kusari?

Kusari (has a worried, panicked look on her face): ….

Tether (touches her shoulder): Kusari-

Kusari (jolts): AAAAAH!! …..Uh...I-I'm gonna w-wait by the d-door.... (rushes off to wait by Ketju's room)

Tether: ….That was odd.

With Kalina and the other healing monsters' power, they were able to heal the wounds on Darius and Ketju. While Darius's leg wound has healed all the way, Ketju ended up having surgery. A few hours later, it was done. Even with healing magic, Ketju's left eye was gone, so there was no choice but to cover her injury up until it healed enough for her to wear an eye patch. Once done, Kusari was let in to see Ketju.

Kusari: Your eye....

Ketju (hesitantly touches her bandage): Yeah...I didn't think that human was that tough.... Judy, was it? It got a good shot at me... What happened to it?

Tether: She's being used in our experiments.. Well, her Soul, mainly.

Ketju: She, huh? So they got her? I'll have to be more vigilant and teach the others to be more careful...

Kusari: Y-You should rest, though!

Ketju: Yeah, I know. The others will be worried. Can you let them know I'm okay?

Kusari: S-Sure!

Ketju: Oh, I thought I saw Darius when I-

Darius (runs in): Lady Ketju!?

Ketju: There he is.

Darius (ears drooping as he approaches Ketju's bed): Are you all right? Ah! Your eye!

Ketju: Yeah, it sucks, but I'll live. Are you all right?

Darius: Yes, ma'am! Thanks to the healers here, my leg's feeling better!

Ketju: That's great!

Darius: I'm gonna tell the others you're okay! (rushes out)

Ketju: Darius and the sisters are a nice bunch. They really warmed up to me when I took over for Mr. Keldin. But man, if I ever see that human again, I'll ki-

Gadwyn (walks in): That won't be necessary, Lady Ketju.

Ketju: Dr. Gadwyn? Nice seeing you here. You said “That won't be necessary”. What, going after the human?

Gadwyn: Yes, as she had been dealt with.

Ketju: So you captured her. That's good. I'll need to take her to-

Gadwyn: That won't be necessary either.

Ketju: Buh, what does that mean?! What, did you kill her  or something?

Gadwyn: Yes.

(silence)

Ketju: Ah...how?

Gadwyn (adjusts his glasses): With my weapon, of course. She shot at me, so I blasted her away. Very effective, but not one I'd use on a whim.

Ketju: That's some weapon you must have. Looking at you, I wouldn't have guessed you could fight.

Gadwyn: Looks can be deceiving, Lady Ketju. (heads to the door and stops by Tether) You'll never know what kind of person you'll meet until you get to know them. (side-glances at Tether) For better or worse.

Tether (slightly glares at Gadwyn before looking away): …..

Gadwyn (turns to Ketju): I must return to the experiment room to resume the tests. Good day and rest well. Tether, Kusari, come along once you're done. (leaves)

Tether: ….

Ketju: Yikes, was he always like that?

Tether: No. Not at the beginning, but....things in our past happened and...I don't think he's gotten over them. He throws himself into his work, more now than before. I've wondered what changed... Oh, I was wondering-

Catena (runs in): LADY KETJU, ARE YOU ALL RIGHT?!

Tether: And there he is.

Ketju: Y-Yeah, I am. Just lost an eye, but still alive.

Catena: THANK GOODNESS! EVERYONE WAS WONDERING WHERE YOU WERE AND GOT WORRIED! I'LL GO TELL THE OTHERS THAT YOU'RE OKAY! (sees Tether and Kusari) HI TETHER, HI NEW PERSON!

Kusari: I, uh, hi? I-I'm Kusari Allori.

Catena: NICE TO MEET YOU, KUSARI! I SEE YOU'VE MET MY BROTHER!

Kusari: Y-Yes, he's given me a tour of the area! Wait... Brother... Oh! So you're the brother Tether told me about!

Catena: SO HE DID!

Ketju: Huh, so you're Catena's brother. He always talked about you. Like, a lot.

Tether: Really? And I thought I was the one who always doted on him.

Catena: WELL, OF COURSE I GOTTA TALK ABOUT MY BEST BIG BROTHER IN THE UNDERGROUND!

Tether: Nah, the best big little brother has gotta be you, Cats.

Catena: Nyeh heh heh.

Kusari: Wait, Catena's the younger brother? I thought he was the older one. Y-You know...because of how tall he is..?

Catena: WE GET THAT A LOT, BUT NOPE! I'M A FEW HUNDRED YEARS YOUNGER THAN HIM!

Kusari: Whoa..

Ketju: Heh, that's pretty cool. If you two are brothers, then who are-

(door opens; Gadwyn and Kalina enters)

Gadwyn (looks around): ….I see you're still becoming acquainted with each other.

Ketju: Oh, back again, Dr. Gadwyn?

Gadwyn: Yes, just passing by with Kalina and letting her know you're up and chatting.

Ketju: Ah. Yeah, I got to meet Catena's brother for the first time.

Gadwyn: Well, I hope my sons aren't causing too much trouble as you're needing to rest?

Ketju: Nah, it's all- wait, sons?

Tether: You didn't notice?

Ketju: I mean... Catena looks a little more like him. You look like a different skeleton.

Tether: Trust us, we're all part of the same family, even if it seems... (glares at Gadwyn a little) ..different.

Gadwyn: …..Right. Well... (turns to Tether and Kusari) As I stated before, after you two are done, Tether, I want you to report to the central laboratory immediately. We will be resuming the experiments on JU07 and the Justice Soul. (heads to the door and stops; glancing back) And please refrain from making any side trips. (leaves)

Tether: …..

Catena: W-WELL, I'M GONNA GO LET THE OTHERS KNOW YOU'RE OKAY, LADY KETJU! GET WELL SOON! (dashes out the door)

Ketju (shivers): That was strange. Did it get tense all of a sudden?

Tether: Anyway, I guess visiting time is over?

Kalina: Yes, I'll be tending to Ketju's wound for a while, so I won't be joining up for the rest of the experiment for now.

Kusari (sighs in relief): Thank you.

Ketju: Yeah, thanks.

Kalina: No problem. You and Tether should hurry along before Dr. Gadwyn gets angry.

Kusari: Ah, y-yes! (hurries out the door)

Tether: …..Ketju.

Ketju: Yeah?

Tether: You were wondering how I look different from...Papa and Catena, yeah?

Ketju: Oh, uh, yeah, but-

Tether: I would guess it's from my mother. Papa told us about her. How she lived, how she loved....and how she died. (scratches the back of his skull) Sorry about that. It's been some time since I thought about it. (shrugs) I better move on then. Don't wanna deal with his crap the rest of the day. Nice meeting you, though, and thanks for taking care of Catena.

Ketju: Welcome..? (watches Tether leave) Huh, his mom must've had a really nice smile if he looked like her, right? (looks at Kalina; notices a confused look on her face) Dr. Kalina?

Kalina (flinches): Uh huh?

Ketju: ...You all right?

Kalina: Oh, uh, yes, of course, I'm fine! Let me...change the bandages out. (unwraps the bandages)

Ketju: …....So...how many more left?

Kalina: Huh?

Ketju: Of the human Souls, how many do we need?

Kalina: ….One more. (removes the pad and examines the wound)

Ketju: I see. We're getting close to freedom, huh. You guys are doing great.

Kalina: Thanks. Hmm.. Your wound's healing well, but it looks like you'll be left without a left eye. You'll have to wear an eye patch to protect it.

Ketju: Huh, all right. Hope it's a cool one!

For the rest of the day, Ketju rested while her injury healed. Meanwhile, more experiments were being conducted by Dr. Gadwyn and his team and Kusari continued her errands. They had a few failures, but they managed to come up with a combination to test out. This took them most of the day, so they decided to take a break before resuming.

Tether (reading over his notes while heading towards the break room): ...Seems to require a little of everything, but until we get the last Soul-

Valin: I just don't get what Gadwyn is up to. He's been acting strange lately.

Tether (stops outside the entrance; see Valin standing by the coffee machine and Minki moving to the fridge): ?

Minki (taking out his lunch from the fridge): Right? It's like he's become obsessed with how the experiments turn out. (closes the door) I know we're getting close to completing the project, but he makes it look like it's a life-or-death thing. (sits down at a table)

Valin: I mean, a lot of us did die down here, but not in the way he makes it feel like. (sips his coffee) It must be something to do with his wife.

Minki: His wife?

Valin: Yeah. That's right, you weren't with us when it happened. It was centuries ago, but Gadwyn developed a hatred for humans since she almost turned to dust. He pretty much snapped the neck of one a long time ago.

Minki: Yikes, really?

Valin: Yeah. PE05, I believe. Guess it tried to brainwash one of his sons, the eldest one, I think.

Minki: Tether?

Valin: Yeah! I'm curious as to how that human did it.

Minki: Wish we could've seen what the humans could do before taking their Souls.

Valin: Yeah. But hopefully the one we chose won't have an adverse reaction to the concoction. It'll be devastating if it didn't work.

Tether: ….. (steps in and goes to the fridge to get his lunch) Hey, guys.

Valin (flinches): !

Minki: Oh, hey, Tether! Joining us for break?

Tether: Nah, I'm gonna be meeting up with Dr. Gadwyn to discuss something. Maybe next time. (leaves)

Minki: All right. (turns to Valin) Valin?

Valin: Uh, yeah?

Minki: You looked scared, what's up?

Valin: Ah, n-nothing. I better go...do some tests.

Minki: But it's not time to go back yet.

Valin: Yeah, but I wasn't...uh..feeling hungry much. See you later, Minki. (dumps his coffee in the sink and rushes out)

Minki: …. (eats their sandwich) That was weird.

Tether (standing outside the opposite end of the break room; a written sentence showing “Almost turned to dust. Mom?” is seen): …..What did he mean by that...?

Once the break was over, everyone returned to their duties. They were able to gather enough Justice essence for testing before deciding to transfer it to King Kette. But when they were about to put the Soul back into the portable container, it managed to make its escape.

Valin: Ah!

Minki: Whoa!

Gadwyn: Don't let it escape!!

The group were making grabs at the Soul, but it kept shooting yellow bullets at everyone. Distracted, it was caught by Gadwyn's gloved hands.

Gadwyn: Got you, you little pest! (sees a glowing light peeking through his hands) What is-

Without warning, an explosion shot out from the backs of Gadwyn's hands. The Justice Soul blasted a hole in them to escape, and as it did, Gadwyn crumbled to the ground, screaming and writhing in pain.

Toroast: Dr. Gadwyn!!

Tether: PAPA!! (crouches by Gadwyn) Are you all right!?

Gadwyn (holding his hands under his arms): Forget about me! Catch the Soul!!

Minki: We're trying! (dodging the bullets) Ah!

Kalina (walks in and sees the commotion): What on earth!?

Valin: Close the door, you're gonna let it out!!

Kalina (sees the Soul flying towards her): Aaah! (shuts the door quickly as she ducks from the flying Soul; rushes over to Gadwyn) What happened!?

Toroast: I can't reach it!

Tether: Tch. (watches the Soul flying around as Minki, Valin, and Toroast try to catch it without getting hit by the bullets; looks back at Gadwyn getting treated by Kalina; has a thought) Maybe...I gotta try it! (holds his right hand out)

Kalina: Tether?

Gadwyn: What is he doing? Don't just sit there, help them!

Tether: I hope this works... Focus on the target.. (watches the Soul)...and... (his right eye glows an indigo purple and an indigo chain decal runs to his mouth and to the back of his skull; his hand glows and a loud PING sound rings out; the Soul is caught in a chain ring, glowing indigo) Ngh...got it!

Everyone was stunned at the sight. So much so, they almost forgot to contain the elusive violent Soul.

Tether: Gh..guys, get the thing....  (holds his wrist and he struggles to keep his hold on it) I don't know how long I can...

Minki: Ah! (grabs the portable containment device and rushes up to the Soul, catching and locking it inside)

Tether (deactivates his power, sighing heavily): Glad that's over.... Ah. Papa! (scoots over to Gadwyn) Are you all right?!

Gadwyn: I'm fine. But my hands....

Kalina (helps Tether get Gadwyn up to his feet): We're going to have to fix your hands up quickly. Come on!

Gadwyn: Damn it all!

(Kusari gets close to the door but jumps back when it swings open; sees Kalina and Tether helping Gadwyn to the ER area)

Kusari: Wh-What happened!?

Tether: There was an accident. The others'll fill you in.

Kusari: Wha?? (enters the laboratory; sees various bullet holes and smoking bullet marks on the walls, monitor, and floor; a few items were knocked over or broken; Valin and Toroast were sitting on the floor and Minki was sitting on a chair)

Minki: Kusari.

Kusari: I just saw Miss Kalina and Tether with Dr. Gadwyn!

Minki: Yeah, the Justice Soul tried to escape while we were preparing to send it off to King Kette. It was a disaster... Blasted holes into Gadwyn's hands when he caught it.

Kusari: Oh no! Will he be all right?

Toroast: We hope so. But Tether, he was amazing! He manage to catch it with his magic!

Kusari: He did?

Valin: Yeah, I wonder where he learned how to do that?

Kusari: Maybe he learned it from someone?

Valin: Maybe! If it wasn't for him, things would've gotten worse!

Minki: Ah, we better get to fixing this while Dr. Gadwyn gets healed.

Kusari: Oh, l-let me help!

As Kusari, Valin, Minki, and Toroast fixed up the lab, Tether sat outside the ER, hands clasped and left knee bouncing while waiting for the news. He had noticed his father's arm wound before, and now this injury with the hands. The longer he doesn't hear anything about Gadwyn, the more worried he got. This went on for a few hours as the skeleton went from just sitting to pacing back and forth. A few times, he saw the healers run by him from the ER to elsewhere, but with no news of the scientist's condition. By the time Kusari joined up with him with the other scientists, Kalina stepped out of the room.

Tether (stands up quickly): So?! Is he all right!?

Kalina: He is, thankfully. But...

Tether: But?

Kalina: ...It'll be some time before he can use his hands again. The blast from the Soul was so severe that we had to cauterize the holes-

Tether: Holes?

Kalina: Yes, he has holes in his hands now, and it's likely that they'll remain that way. We tried to find what's left of his hand bones, but with no luck.

Kusari: Ah, that's why you came back into the lab.

Kalina: Yes.

Tether: Can we see him?

Kalina: Not right now. When we told him what happened to his hands, he nearly flew into a rage, so we had to sedate him. I'll keep an eye on him and let you know when he awakens.

Tether: Okay...

Kalina: Of course, he did say for you guys to continue the experiments even if he's out of commission, so...

Tether (scoffs): Of course he did.. Thanks, Kalina.

Kalina: No problem. (walks back into the room)

Kusari: At least we know he's all right, but poor Dr. Gadwyn.

Tether: Eh, he may not look it, but he's tough.

Kusari: That's right, he took on a human, right?

Tether: Yeah. (sighs) I guess we gotta get moving. Don't wanna look like we're slacking off.

The rest of the night sees the scientists continuing the experiments until it was time to go home. Tether had stayed at the lab until Catena came by to check on Ketju when he heard about what happened to Gadwyn. This put the tall skeleton into a panic until Tether fully explained the situation.

Catena: THANK GOODNESS FOR THAT, BUT IT'S STILL WORRYING! WILL HE EVER USE HIS HANDS AGAIN?

Tether: I'm not really sure, to be honest. I know he won't be too happy about being away from his work.

Catena: WELL, I THINK HE NEEDS THE REST, WHAT WITH ALL OF THIS SCIENCE-Y STUFF YOU'RE DOING! EVEN THOUGH, THIS ISN'T REALLY THE WAY TO GO ABOUT IT.

Tether: Yeah. Oh, and uh, thanks for teaching me that Soul-catching skill. It really came in handy.

Catena: AH, SO YOU GOT TO USE IT! YOU'RE WELCOME! IT WAS SOMETHING WE LEARNED IN OUR TRAINING, SO I'M GLAD TO HEAR IT WORKED! I GOTTA TELL KETJU THE GREAT NEWS!

Kalina (walks out of the room): Hmm, oh? Ah, you're both here. I was going to contact you.

Tether: How is he?

Kalina: He just woke up. He'll be groggy, but still capable of speaking. (steps aside) Go ahead.

The brothers thanked her and entered the room, seeing Gadwyn lying in bed with a slight scowl on his face. To say that he looked unhappy about his predicament was an understatement.

Catena (rushes to Gadwyn's side): DAD! ARE YOU ALL RIGHT?

Gadwyn: Yes, yes, of course. At least... (moves his bandaged hands a little) ...most of me is okay. (glares) That damned Soul....thinks it got the last laugh. HA! I'm alive and the human's not.

Tether: Well, seeing as you're okay, we'll leave-

Gadwyn: You're all continuing the experiments, correct?

Tether: I- Yeah?

Gadwyn: Good. (sits himself up) I'll come and check on the progress.

Catena (pushes Gadwyn back to the bed): NO, YOU SHOULDN'T! YOU SHOULD LEAVE THAT TO TETHER AND THE SCIENTISTS! THEY CAN DO THOSE THINGS WHILE YOU REST!

Gadwyn: Nonsense. (tries to force himself against Catena's hand) I'm not going to let this keep me down.

Catena (uses the Soul Catch ability on Gadwyn and pushes him back down): NO, YOU MUST REST!

Gadwyn (struggling): I- What?! (stops) Ah, so this is what Tether used to stop that Soul.

Catena: OH, YES! WE WERE TAUGHT THIS IN THE ROYAL GUARD TRAINING!

Gadwyn: Well then. ...All right, you've convinced me. But do teach me that when I get released. It looks to prove quite useful.

Catena: OF COURSE! UNTIL THEN, GET YOUR REST AND GET BETTER!

Gadwyn: I will.

Tether: ...

Gadwyn promised that much, but his mind was still on his work. When Kalina went to check on him later that night, he was already awake.

Kalina: Oh, you're awake! I'm just about to-

Gadwyn: Kalina.

Kalina: Yes, Doctor?

Gadwyn: I want you to do a favor for me.

Kalina: Oh, yes. What would you like me to do?

Gadwyn: Follow my instructions precisely. I want you to get three vials of the Justice essence and take them to my house.

Kalina: What-

Gadwyn: Behind my house, there's a small building. I'll give you the key to it. (carefully digs in his top and pulls out a silver key connected to a silver chain necklace; takes it off and hands it to her) Don't lose it.

Kalina: But-

Gadwyn: Put them in the second drawer in the table on the left side of the room.

Kalina: Why do you need those?

Gadwyn: Don't..question it. Just follow those instructions. And whatever you do, don't let your curiosity get the better of you. And DO NOT LET MY SONS SEE YOU. They should be asleep or getting ready to sleep by now.

Kalina: I...Is this why you've been-

Gadwyn: Kalina, I can only trust you with this. Please do this for me.

Kalina: …..Yes, Doctor. Let me at least check your hands.

Gadwyn: Thank you...

After Kalina gave Gadwyn his checkup, she began to do Gadwyn's favor. She kept wondering why he would ask such a thing of her, but she had figured it had something to do with the scientist's behavior over the years. That twisted glee in the project being so close to being finished. Once she entered the lab, she went straight to drawing out the essences. Three vials she took and carefully placed in her bag. Kalina soon made her way out of the lab and to the River Person's location.

Kalina (climbs onto the boat and sits down): To Snowdin, please.

River Person: Tra la la. And we're off.

(the boat drifts from Hotland through Waterfall)

River Person: Tra la la. How would spiders wear pants with so many legs? Tra la la.

Kalina: Uh...

Kalina, and maybe many other monsters, could never understand the River Person's random musings. Before she could answer, they arrived at Snowdin. She made her way towards the house and looked for the building.

Kalina: Around the back... (sees a small building when going to the back; approaches the door) Ah! There it is. ….What could he be hiding in here? (enters the building) Huh, I thought this would be for his house.

She opened her way in, entering what looks like a small laboratory. To the left, there is a long white table attached to the wall, where it was covered with cork boards, whiteboards, a large flat screen computer monitor with a white keyboard, and papers neatly stacked on the right corner area of the table and pinned all over the boards. Next to the table was a tall, four drawer filing cabinet, across from it was a tall covered item that had a dim pulsating light, like something was on standby, and the opposite wall had a more cleaner table. She noticed various diagrams and charts that she didn't recognize from the experiments. Kalina wanted to look at them further, but she promised to not be too curious and went on with her task.

Kalina: Second drawer... Ah! (opens it; sees various empty vials that have traces of Soul essences and a red notebook) What? These are...Soul essences? (lays the full vials in the drawer and picks up a vial that has purple liquid in it) He's been taking extra ones? Is he testing something-

(a cracked groan is heard)

Kalina (drops the vial back in the drawer and slams it shut): Oh geez... What was that...?

(the groan is heard again)

Kalina (ears flatten in fear): H...Hello...?

???: Uuuh...aahahah.....

Kalina: It's....coming from...that covered thing...?

???: G.....G...uuh....G..uuh....

Kalina (shivering; slowly approaches the covered item): He..llo...?

???: …..

Kalina: Is..someone-

???: GuuuAAAAAAAAAAA!!!

Kalina: AAAAH!!! (trips over the rolling chair and falls while moving backward) Aaah! (scrambles to her feet and runs out of the building)

The fear that went through Kalina drove her to run, but not before remembering to lock the place down. She struggled with the key even if it was the only one she had. She can slightly hear the cracked groaning from behind the door, which sent her running again. Tether was jolted awake by this, which prompted him to look out his window.

Tether: What was that..? (looks around, sees nothing out of the ordinary) Hmm... Must be the neighborhood kids again. (gets back under the covers and goes to sleep)

As Tether went back to sleep and Kalina was speeding her way back to Hotland, neither of them heard the guttural sounds of the thing behind the veiled object in the back of the mini laboratory. Even the one word it managed to say...

???: G...aaa..d...y....

  TO BE CONTINUED

[str-spangled-banner]

Home - Bruce X Daughter!Reader - Part 4

Part 1 — Part 2 — Part 3

MASTERLIST

TAKING REQUESTS

Summary: You stay up late in your new workshop when you and Steve are given your first, real, chance to talk.

Warnings: None.

Words: 2 249

A/N: Okay I’ve been away for so long I’m sorry! This is just a filler so that I’ll post something at least. Please tell me what you think!

(Also there's no GIF cause whenever I press the GIF I want ((or any other)) nothing fucking happens so that's that.)

She sat in the center of her dimly lit workshop, the bright light of tablet illuminating her face and making her surroundings appear even darker. She scrolled through the digital lists of material, tools and parts that Tony had stored, adding each thing she needed for her renewed generator reluctantly. Tony had given her a credit card of her own and had transferred enough money for her to buy a private island. It made her wonder if he was trying to make her feel horrible purposely. He had assured that the money was nothing, which they truly weren’t to him, but even if she had made progress with her struggle to accept gifts she couldn’t handle everything. Tony didn’t know how to support the bright girl other than giving her the capability to build and create all the things her mind could muster up. Money could give her that capability, but only if she accepted it, which she barely could.

She had declined the gift instantly and refused to use the card after she had been forced to at least take it. She had tried to barter with the persistent billionaire by promising to use the resources of the stored materials that were just laying around instead, and Tony had to her relief let it slide after that.

She put a dozen of quarter inch bolts in her order from the material storage that resided somewhere in the basement levels of the Tower. Tony had explained that it worked much like ordering online, despite it being so close to where they she, Tony and everyone else worked. She simply had to mark the items she wanted, send the list down, and wait for half an hour to an hour to have the things delivered straight to her own workshop. It was efficient, and even though it was just past midnight on a Friday and the employees that worked in the storage wouldn’t fulfill her order until Monday morning, she still made her very long list.

“Liquid cobalt?” Y/N quirked one eyebrow, pulling her head back slightly as she questioned its necessity. “Yeah, that could be useful. Some copper wiring for prototype… It’s measured in grams? Ugh, okay. The wiring is 0.812 millimeters. Take that times it’s weight-”

“Am I interrupting something?” Steve’s voice echoed in the still empty lab, his sudden presence causing Y/N to yelp in surprise and clutch her hand over her chest where her heart hammered loudly. Steve smiled, letting out a short breath from his nose. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. I knocked but it seems you didn’t hear me.”

“I was just…” Her voice trailed off as she scanned back to the screen, ears heating up in embarrassment from having been caught talking to herself. As she looked back to Steve, who had a more than kind and nonjudgmental vibe radiating off of him, she sighed in defeat. “Talking to myself out loud makes things easier to remember and keep track of. I just tend to talk a lot more when I’m tired.”

“No need to justify your actions.” Steve raised both his hands in defense of her excuse, smiling wider and lowering his limbs as Y/N let out a quiet chuckle. “I just wanted to drop in for a bit. With everything going on with you moving in here, school, and what not, I feel like we’ve barely gotten the chance to meet.”

“Yeah, it’s been quite hectic the past…” She glanced down at her watch, counting the hours. “Twenty seven hours.”

Steve let himself further inside, bringing a stool with him and settling down across from her at the table and propping his arms on the cold, metal, surface. “This place seems to fit you like a glove, though. Even if I don’t know you personally yet, I can tell that you take after your dad a lot when it comes to your interests and hobbies.”

“Is it that obvious?” She chuckled again, already liking Steve for approaching her on his own accord.

“Not if you’re not looking for it.” He assured. “But transparent personalities or not, it’s nice with some fresh blood around here. I’m glad you decided to move in. I know Bruce is too.”

“I didn’t really have another place where I could move.” She chuckled again, but her voice was strained and her tone far from genuine. Steve, who had maintained eye contact with her since he entered the room, watched as she broke under his gaze and looked down at her hands resting on her thighs.

“I can also tell your not the type that enjoys pity, but I’m sorry for how your mother treated you and for what she did. I don’t know the details of it all and I don’t except you to want to share them with me out of all people, but just know that I stand behind your back in this.” Steve confessed, striking a soft spot in Y/N who felt her eyes sting as they teared, glistening in the dim room but never surpassing that phase. She could never admit to Steve how much it meant to hear him say that, but she doubted he needed her to confirm it to him. He seemed more than capable of making that assumption himself.

“I don’t think my mother did what she did because she doesn’t care for me or because she doesn’t like me as a person. I just think I reminded her too much of a past she would so much rather forget. I’m not saying that what she did was right, because even I can tell that it wasn’t, but I’m just saying that I think I can somewhat understand why she did it. At least I can to some extent imagine what she might have been thinking. Saying I understand why she did it sounds far too… Kind.”

Steve continued to watch her, pity turning into admiration. He wanted to praise her in that moment for the amazing girl she was and tried to get a sense of what she would be most appreciative of hearing. She had always been treated like a child from the picture of Y/N and her mother that he had managed to acquire, but from the single moment they just shared he could unquestionably say that she was more mature than most people twice her age. She was also insecure and extremely small in spirit. Steve doubted she had ever heard someone acknowledge how strong she truly was. He could only begin to imagine how much a girl of her age needed that kind of affirmation. In the end, he decided that she deserved to hear both.

“You’re a very strong, young, woman, Y/N… To be able to have such a deep understanding of your mother’s reasons despite how she has treated you is a very mature thing that most people would not be able to handle.” He watched as she tried to subtly disguise her hands rubbing away the tears in her eyes before they could fall. “Oh my… I didn’t mean to come in here and bring up all the heavy stuff.”

“No, it’s- It’s nice, to talk sometimes, I mean. I’m not much for it usually, but it is rather relieving.” She chuckled for the fourth time and the sincerity to it was back much to Steve’s relief. The last thing he wanted to do was upset Y/N so shortly after her moving in and so soon after first meeting her.

“I just saw that the light was still shining in here and thought I’d stop by.” Steve explained why he was in her lab at all. “You disappeared after dinner and I just wanted to check that you were alright.”

“I’m fine, more than fine, actually. It’s just that I’ve had nothing but a messy bedroom to work in for all my life. Now I have a state of the arc lab six times the size of my bedroom and access to materials I could never have dreamed of… It’s difficult to stay away from it.” She admitted with a hint of red creeping up her cheeks as she realized she had been rambling.

“It seems everything is as it should be then. If I was in your shoes, I would have much rather sought out the solitude of this place than hang out with us grown ups for a dull evening in the lounge… We can let go at Tony’s little gatherings, sure, but we get pretty boring during the week.”

“I’ve just always preferred to keep to myself and my projects. I’ll try and work on it, but despite liking it here, there’s a lot on my plate that I have to swallow as it is. I’m being given enough money to drown in, an entire workshop, a new phone, a five star bedroom… There’s over a dozen new people who just happens to be superheroes that I’m living with, I’m finding out that the quiet and nerdy guy in my after-hours biochemistry class is Spider-Man… The list doesn’t exactly stop there.”

“No one is expecting you to fall right in and adjust the first day or two. Take all the time you need. I get how drastic of a change this must be for you, it was for me as well. Waking up, finding myself seventy years into the future and landing in a world so technologically advanced I thought it couldn’t possibly be real… It was drastic to say the least. It took some getting used to and I certainly didn’t do that over night. You just have to find your own way of breaking it all down into pieces and dealing with one at a time.”

She furrowed her eyebrows slightly whilst still hinting a smile, taken aback by the excellent advice. “Thank you, Steve. That’s actually really helpful.”

“You sound surprised.” He stated. “I’ll take it as a compliment as well as my subtle cue to wrap this night up. If I were to shut my eyes right now I don’t doubt I’ll fall asleep within thirty seconds.”

“Seems we have more things in common there.” She wiped her hand over her face, tiredly looking down as she shut her tablet off and rose from her seat along with Steve.

“If you’re not too busy with all the projects I’m sure you have planned, you should definitely spend the weekend with the rest of us. We don’t have to do anything special at all, I just know the rest of the team would really like to get to know you. If it’s not too much, you should consider it.” Steve offered as you both stepped out in the hallway, the workshop falling into darkness behind them.

“What should we do?” Y/N asked instead of giving a clear answer, causing Steve to smile again as they made their way up the stairs. “Fight aliens? Bake cupcakes? I don’t really know what you guys do on a casual Saturday.”

“If you can get us all to bake cupcakes together, I will praise the very ground you walk on, for you must truly have a magical gift to do such a thing. Thor using any type of baking equipment feels just as real as the existence of dragons or mermaids.” Steve shook his head, attempting to get rid of the image of Thor wearing an apron that involuntarily had popped into his head.

“I guess we’ll see what tomorrow brings then?” She raised a brow as they came to a stop outside of her bedroom door, the ceiling lights also dimmed as the upper floors of the Tower were in Night Mode, creating a more calm and relaxed environment merely by adjusting the lights.

“We will indeed.” Steve agreed before bowing subtly towards her. “Goodnight, Banner. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Goodnight.” She waved in his direction as he continued down the hallway for his own room and she backed into hers.

She shut the door and turned around to the yet to be personalized room. Her old room hadn’t been as personal as it had been historical. Things from her early childhood lingered on the shelves to gather dust, but it had never been personal. The only exception had been her inventions and her projects, but her mom had made sure to hide them as often as she could, so Y/N didn’t even have them to express her personality with.

“Ms. Banner. Your father set a timed message should you still be awake at this time. He wishes you goodnight and tells you that he can be found in Tony’s workshop tomorrow morning.”

Friday’s voice spoke softly in the quiet room. Y/N laid down on her bed, staring up at the speaker in the ceiling which was only one of the outputs the AI was linked to.

“Thank you, Friday.” Y/N replied, moving her legs underneath the sprawled out cover and ignoring the fact that she was still fully dressed. It was nearing one in the morning and her eyelids were becoming significantly more difficult to keep open. After a few more, tired, blinks she gave in and let her eyes fall shut peacefully. Falling asleep was effortless. The talk she and Steve had shared was still fresh in her mind as a pleasant reminder that the people in the Stark Tower were not so harsh and cold as she had first imagined.

Part 1 — Part 2 — Part 3

[mhdiaries]

Diary of Cleolei

If you are reading this diary, you’d better either have royal eyes or nine lives.

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Past One

The most horrifying event in history just happened to me, and I’m still shaking in my wraps! I became fused together with that dreadful werecat, Toralei. We are both inside this same body, and it’s all her fault! Typically, she was sticking her whiskers in where they didn’t belong and got her paws on something... and, zap! Being stuck in this body makes me so clawstrophobic, I’m itching like I have fleas! Oh, how I long for a lovely scented bath, but the furball gets her tail in a bunch at the slightest suggestion of water. Hmmmm... I wonder if I can talk her into a milk bath. CdN

30 mins A.F. (After Fusion) - Today started out to be a purrfectly fun day. There were so many killer things to explore in that mad scientist’s lab, I just had to get my paws on them, you know? How was I supposed to know touching that vortex thingy would cause such a cat-astrophy. I mean, seriously! Of all people to get fused with, I have to get stuck with her royal heinous... that ghoul really strokes my fur the wrong way! TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Til Two

Unacceptable! Her pointy little ears keep popping out no matter how tightly I wrap them! And everywhere I walk, I hear that horrid tail swishing. It echoes down the halls of MH. I accidentally tripped Deuce with it, and his sunglasses slid down his nose and turned poor Hissette into stone! She was following me - I think she mistook the swishing for hissing and was jealous I might have been hanging out with another cobra. As if I would ever find one as sweet as her. I’ll miss her as long as it takes for her to de-petrify. Luckily, it looks like it’s already wearing off. CdN

75 mins A.F. - This day just keeps getting better and better. Cleo keeps smashing my ears down with her wraps! So I didn’t hear her cobra slithering around us, and when I saw it I jumped in surprise - and I accidently tripped Deuce with my tail! I feel bad poor Hissette had to get caught in the crossfire of his stone-ifying eyes, but at least we know it’s temporary. I wish I could say the same about being fused with her royal pain. Ugh. I feel a furball coming on. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Two

Well, rehearsal for BIte-Centennial truly bit. Ugh, I’m just so desperate to send that kitty back to the pound she came from. I can’t believe my ancestors had a special affinity for felines. This one in particular is nothing but a mangy little pain in my abacus. And I’ve heard more with from headless sphinx statues. Give me a loyal greyhound any day. CdN

110 mins A.F. - Hahaha! That was pawsome! Miss purrfectly proper almost fell off her makeshift horse. And then I made her dance a little jig. If she sticks with me, she might learn to have some real fun. That’ll show her for claiming I’m not a purebred werecat. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Quarter Til Three

For some reason I can’t fathom, Frankie is convinced that the Hybrids can help us learn to be good at this whole fused-together thing. They are the new monsters at MH, and they are the kids of 2 different types of monsters, so I guess they have proper credentials. But the last thing I want to do is get too comfortable in Toralei’s skin, although apparently even I don’t have a choice. I was talking to Ghoulia earlier... well, trying to, anyway. It’s really difficult to have a private conversation with the werecat listening in. But I think Ghoulia has a plan to get me - all of us, I suppose - out of this situation. In the meantime, I guess I’ll see what’s up with the Hybrids. Toralei must be rubbing off on me, because I must admit I’m curious. CdN

125 mins A.F. - I’d trust Ghoulia with all of my 9 lives. She’s the kind of ghoul who doesn’t talk much, but when she does, monster listen. Or at least they should, if they have a brain in their skull. Even Cleo seems to pay attention to Ghoulia. But for some reason, Cleo seems to think Ghoulia is her own personal treasure. I was trying hard to hear what Ghoulia had planned - and I have pretty good hearing if I do say so myself - but Cleo kept trying to shut me out, like she thought she could entomb me in some tiny part of her dark and dusty mind. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Three

Oh, my Ra! Fearleading practice was positively scarab-ulous! For the first time in a millenia, I perfectly formed the very top of the pyramid! I know, that doesn’t sound like much of an accomplishment - after all, a pyramid is right in my wheelcasket - but contrary to my usually flawless skill, I tend to be, um, shall we say, less than regal when hoisted on the backs of other ghouls. Although, I always believed that was more them than me, of course, but I digress. Anyway, not only did I fashion the top of the pyramid, from there I performed a triple pirouette, half-spin, reverse flip, over-the-crown split, and I STILL landed gracefully on my feet! My Daddy-Mummy would be so proud! The help from our new friends totes worked! CdN

165 mins A.F. - I’ve never enjoyed Fearleading practice more than I did today. I mean, jumping around and landing on your feet? That’s kitten play. Where’s the challenge in that? But it was nice not to have Cleo getting under my fur for a change. She didn’t boss me around ocne. I don’t really know what got into her. She was practically purring. Looks like we have our new friends to thank for that. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Four Precisely

You know, my ancestors may have had a point about this feline thing. I was feeling a bit cat-nappish after Fearleading practice. It was one thing that Toralei didn’t argue with me about. We found an empty classroom where it was nice and quiet, and stretched out near the window sill in a pool of sunlight. I must confess, it WAS soothing to have the werekitty purring and mumbling in my ear as we dozed. I slept like the un-dead. I won’t tell her, of course. Her head is already so over-inflated, it might pop. Normally, I wouldn’t concern myself with that possibility, but, now that we share the same head... CdN

195 mins A.F. - I’m feeling refreshed from a nap. I can almost deal with the rest of this Bite-Centennial. Is it just me, or has this been a really long day? Cleo doesn’t think so, but then she’s been alive forever, so I suppose one day wouldn’t seem like much to her. To me, it feels like an eternity. But the nap was nice. Cleo doesn’t smell as musty as I expected, just a bit too perfume-y. Made my whiskers twitch. But I’m really surprised by now how much I liked being tangled in her wraps, swaddled like a newborn kitten. I found myself purring out loud, and didn’t even care if she heard me. TS

Bite-Centennial Day, Half Past Four

I’m royally pleased to be back to me! Now that I’ve been de-fused from the werekitty, I am feeling much more my ancient self. I feel like I just rid myself of a furball that has been gagging me all day! Toralei and I decided to each write a grain of sand’s worth here just to finish up OUR diary. In the end, it wasn’t as horrific an experience as I would have imagined, given that she usually ruffles my wrappings. It turns out we CAN get along, when we are forced to under the most dire and unexpected of circumstances, i.e. stuck in the same body. But I could really use another nap. CdN

10 mins A.d.F. (After de-Fusion) - I am so happy I feel like everything is made of catnip! I am back to being my clawsome self, and Miss Queen of deNothing is back in her own wraps. I don’t know why everyone blamed me for getting them into this. I don’t think it turned out to be so cat-astrophic after all. They would never have known how freaky fabulous things could get if I hadn’t tried a few things, right? You have to be a little curious about the world - sniff outside the box - if you want even one purrfect life, much less 9. TS

We my not be fused anymore, but we must work together more than ever! Frankie is in dire need of our help, and she is one ghoul worth crossing a desert... CdN

or getting wet for. There isn’t anything we won’t do to SAVE FRANKIE!! TS