#pining sherlock fics

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hi 👋. Do you know a fic that sherlock wants to kiss john so badly that he comes up with a fake case or experiment just to be able to kiss him?

Hi Nonny!!!

Ah, the one that immediately comes to mind is this one:

The Kissing Disease by cottonballz_of_death (E, 30,856 w., 15 Ch. || Sick Fic, Angst with Happy Ending, Case Fic, Self-Harm, Slow Burn, Jealous Sherlock, Body Image Issues, Hurt/Comfort, Emotional Hurt/Comfort, POV Sherlock, Oral / Anal, Thong, Frottage) – John brings home a boyfriend, shocking Sherlock, who long ago gave up hope that his straight flatmate would ever take a romantic interest in him. In a bid to reconnect with John, he tries to infect himself with a "harmless" virus. Neither of them is prepared for the emotional fallout that results.

====

Which isn't EXACTLY what you're looking for but for some reason it stuck in my head when you sent this ask!

I also have a few "Couple for a Case from Sherlock's POV" that I adore that could meet this criteria:

The Skin Over My Heart by standbygo (E, 8,849 w., 1 Ch. || Post-Hiatus, Fake Relationship, Case Fic, Dog Tags, Military, Homophobia, Gay Bashing, POV First Person Sherlock, Friends to Lovers, First Kiss / Time, Declarations of Love, Undercover, Haircuts, Flashbacks, Touching, Pining Sherlock, Hospitalization, Metaphors, Introspection, Hand Jobs, On the Couch, John’s Past, Angst with Happy Ending) – Sherlock and John are still trying to adjust to Sherlock's return from his hiatus when John's friend Bill Murray brings them a case. Someone is targeting the LGBTQA+ members of Bill's unit. John and Sherlock go undercover at the unit, but when they end up having to flirt to flush out the suspect, Sherlock realizes he's in over his head.

A Promise Made to Be Broken by PlantsAreNeat (E, 37,018 w., 7 Ch. || Fake Relationship, Pining, Slow Burn, RST, Eventual Relationship, Primarily POV Sherlock) – A young John makes an ‘if we’re still single at 40, we’ll get together’ pledge to a woman who ends up all wrong for him. She keeps reminding him of the promise, and won’t let go of it. John asks Sherlock to pose as his boyfriend at a family wedding, so as to dash her hopes permanently. Sherlock, who has at last acknowledged his feelings for John, reluctantly agrees despite knowing how painful it will be to ‘have’ John, but not keep him.

Bridging the Ravine by SilentAuror (E, 58,887 w., 3 Ch. || Post S4, Couple For a Case, Bed-Sharing, First Times, Confessions, Awkwardness, Sex Trafficking, Massages, Wet T-Shirt Contest, Group Therapy, Past Loss of Child) – Sherlock and John go undercover at Ravine Valley, a therapy centre for same-sex male couples in an investigation into a possible human trafficking ring. As they pose as a couple and fake their way through the therapy sessions for the sake of the case, it quickly becomes difficult to avoid discussing their very real issues. Set roughly six nine months after series 4. Part 1 of the The Ravine Valley series series

====

AND you might find more on these lists:

It’s An Experiment!

It’s An Experiment! (Pt. 2)

It’s An Experiment! (Pt. 3)

But yeah, those are the closest I can think of to what you're looking for; if anyone can give something MUCH better than I have to offer, please PLEASE do, I know that there are others <3

[hopelessromantic5]

Pride Month somehow went by in a fucking flash.

Here’s a short Merthur clip inspired by a conversation between Sherlock and Molly Hooper on BBC’s Sherlock.

“You’re a bit like my dad. Even after he got sick, he was cheerful and lovely, always. Except when he thought no one could see.” A pause. “I saw him once. He looked sad.”

“Gwen.”

“You look sad.” Another pause.

“You look sad, when you think he can’t see you.”

Arthur stopped his approach on the tattered practice dummy. Flicking his eyes over to where she gestured with her own.

Merlin was polishing armor in the grass.

Arthur didn’t really think before he murmured

“What of it?” And shrugged as if this is something he could just dismiss in one perfectly executed move, just like any foe. But this is an enemy he’s faced many times and lost countless battles. His own stupid incessant bleeding feelings.

This time felt different though. They seemed to be wrapping vines around his heart and lungs. Making it hard to breathe, sometimes he could hear nothing but blood in his ears and the sound of his heart shattering over and over again.

Different people stood behind the knife each time it landed, people he thought he could trust. People he thought loved him as much as he loved them in return.

And each time, he sank to a newer low. One he thought he would never reach.

Morgana.

Uther.

Gwen.

Lancelot.

Agravaine.

The lot of them turned out to hate him for no other reason than being born to the parents that he was. Gwen and Lance may be excluded from this, but their treachery was less to Prince Arthur and closer to the real Arthur. The one that sits beneath the skin of this, now, King.

And then, there was Merlin.

[gregorovitch-adler]

@flashfictionfridayofficial

BBC Sherlock.

It is what it is

"I cheated on Mary," said John, as his eyes welled up, and in came the monologue to a non-existent person, presumably Mary.

Sherlock followed John's gaze and stopped at an empty corner of the sitting room of their flat. Well, his flat, technically, because John wasn't here anymore.

All he could conclude was that John was not okay.

"Who you think I am, is the man I want to be," John continued.

Sherlock turned to look from the empty corner to John's face, pressing his lips together with utter heartbreak. Sherlock had always admired John's medical skills, his combat skills, his sense of authority, his sense of humour, and the list could go on forever.

Mary was not even in the picture when Sherlock began to look up to him and admire him.

Was that not enough?

The image of John punching and kicking him in the ribs flashed before him. Of course it wasn't enough, thought Sherlock and chuckled mirthlessly in his mind.

Probably because he wasn't a woman, or not human enough for John's liking.

However, anyone with half a brain would laugh at the second possibility, given the fact that he wouldn't have been sitting on this chair if he hadn't revived himself that day, after getting shot by John's own wife.

When John buried his face in his hand and burst into tears, Sherlock thought it didn't matter anymore. He got up as carefully as he could with his wounded back to approach John slowly across the room.

Sherlock felt as though he was in a lion's den, and any wrong move could prove to be fatal. Still, mustering enough courage and physical strength, he approached John and carefully placed his right arm around John's shoulder, and rested his palm on John's nape. He placed his left hand on John's other shoulder and held him gently in his arms. Surprisingly, John not only allowed himself to be hugged, but he also placed his head on Sherlock's chest. Sherlock didn't care about his shirt getting wet because of John's uncontrollable tears.

As Sherlock continued to hold John like he was the most precious thing in the world, he came to a conclusion: perhaps he was wrong to put John on sort of a pedestal for all these years. John had a plethora of qualities, but seeing him through a rose-tinted lens most of the time had been an imperfect sign. An imperfect way of viewing this man.

Ironic, for someone who was a professional detective.

John wasn't perfect; he had a dark side too. The thought was oddly comforting.

Sherlock just wished he hadn't found this out the hard way. But his love for John was far too much to waver, even after everything.

Sherlock pulled John even closer as he buried his nose in John's hair, inhaling his natural scent. Their breathing rate had become in-sync.

Sherlock reluctantly let go of John after some time. John gazed up at him with his beautiful, deep blue eyes, dampened with tears.

Sherlock decided to share his conclusions with him. "It’s not a pleasant thought, John, but I have this terrible feeling, from time to time, that we might all just be human."

John raised his eyebrows at that with a faint smile. "What, even you?"

Sherlock was not amused at this taunt. "No."

John's smile faded and he just blinked at Sherlock wordlessly.

"Even you."

A moment passed. "Cake?" asked John, all of a sudden.

"Cake." Sherlock nodded.

As he walked across the room to grab his coat to go out with John, Sherlock decided that being John's friend again was the next best thing. The other option, the unthinkable one, was completely off the table now. It never was on the table for John.

Sherlock sighed heavily and wistfully.

Probably for the best, he thought, as he and John walked out of the apartment building to have some cake for his birthday.

Tags: @a-victorian-girl , @lisbeth-kk, @helloliriels , @topsyturvy-turtely , @keirgreeneyes, @totallysilvergirl , @jamielovesjam, @peanitbear, etc.

[blistering-typhoons]

come all the same

Holmes is on his feet and crossing the dance floor before he can fully think it through, mouth mumbling a vague excuse to his table.

[cupidford]

The Man With the Cartier Frames by JRow

Sherlock's case will surely be solved quickly...in between trips to Putney to help with Rosie, collecting her from school, and preparing for her sleepover at 221B

Johnlock Love Letters #2313

[earlgreyinpajamas]

Your recs are brilliant. Do you ship any other ships? If yes, any fics that you’ve enjoyed? :)

i shipped johnlock once upon a time, and some of the fics that i remember being really good are:

A Chemical Defect Found (On the Losing Side Remix) by AreteArt

A remix of missselene's "On the Losing Side." After Mary's death, John moves back into Baker Street. He and Sherlock stumble into a relationship, or something of that sort. Sherlock's rather giving when it comes to sex, but that doesn't mean he and John ever talk about it.

~~~

ugh this made me hurt so bad

2. Gordian by fresne (@fresne999)

On any given day, Sherlock might come out of the bathroom smelling like an Alpha on the hunt (Alpha #8) or an Omega in heat (Omega #9), a Beta brooding (Beta #3), or like no gender at all. The last one was his actual scent, which wasn't so much scentless as confusing. At least in an adult. If Sherlock and John were the sort of people to read Mills and Boon novels, they could have said that what occurred was because destiny intervened and set two destined lovers in their one true pairings' path. It was the lasagna.

~~~

the oblivious pining in this fic slaps

3. ranger panties by simplyclockwork (@simplyclockwork)

While in London on leave, Captain John Watson and a particularly intriguing article of clothing manage to catch the attention of one consulting detective.

~~~

cackled i swear

[turbulenttrouble]

NEW AND UPDATED FIC REC LIST

i have yet to add the 100 fics that are still open on my browser to the list, but I hope his list is easier to use then the last one

if there's any trouble opening the link pls let me know

[ardenskyedarcy221b]

someone stop me from spiraling down this rabbit hole of looking up old fics that I’m positive have been pulled 😫😩😭💀

[goldencherriess]

It's exam season and I'll be having my English literature exam in a day so rebloging this only seemed fitting :)

Enjoy some student! Sherlock Holmes!

And they were roommates ™ || Student! Sherlock Holmes x Fem! Reader

Word count: 931

Pairing: Student! Sherlock Holmes x Fem! Reader

Summary: Y/N quickly discovers that being roommates with Sherlock Holmes has its own benefits.

Warnings: absolutely none, other than Sherlock being a big ol’ softie :)

Masterlist

Life as a student wasn’t all that bad. It was fun most of the time, if Y/N excluded the stress of the approaching exams. And it wasn’t dull either. Not when you had a chemistry student as a roommate who just couldn’t stop making experiments everytime he had the opportunity. Which was everyday.

Not dull, definitely not dull.

And she wouldn’t have complained if he just stayed to his side of the room. The man didn’t know what were boundaries and personal space, leaving his ustensils and the experimental subjects all over her desk and books. It was getting on her nerves.

At first she ignored it all, didn’t question the creepy eyes in the jar or the fingers in his tea. And when she tried to question him, he only replied shortly, in a curt manner:

“Project.”

She didn’t press on after that. It was obvious he had no interest in speaking with her. And she was absolutely fine with that. Just fine.

But this time though, she had enough. She couldn’t stand by and see her side of the room being devoured by his stuff. It was chaotic. And Y/N was no chaotic person, she’d rather much preferred order and neatness.

So, when he stormed in their shared flat, she deeply breathed in and stood up from her bed, leaving behind her course notes on Shakespearean literature. She could hear him rummaging through the fridge and cursing under his breath.

“Sherlock? What are you doing?”

He didn’t respond and Y/N was just timidly entering the kitchen when he slammed the fridge door.

“Ah, hello, Y/N! How is Shakespeare coming along?”

She paused.

“How did you…?”

He waved his hand, stuffing the other in the pocket of his coat. From behind, she could hear the smirk in his voice.

“Wouldn’t you like to know? The bags under your eyes and the Shakespeare books scattered on your bed gave it away. And also, your messy hair. You have been running your fingers through your hair out of stress for some time now. Plus, it’s exams season.”

Y/N stopped following him through the flat, gaping at his back.

“You guessed I was studying Shakespeare by all that?”

He snorted, turning to look at her.

“I didn’t guess, I simply observed. It’s elementary, dear Y/N.”

She blinked, shaking her head.

“Right, of course.”

Sherlock just stood there, staring at her, with his hands clasped behind his back, and smirking. She felt flustered under his gaze, small even. Y/N shifted from a foot to another, pushing her glasses further up her nose. But then she remembered why she approached him in the first place. She raised her head and met his eyes.

“You have to start cleaning around here.”

He frowned.

“Why would I do that?”

She gave him a pointed look.

“Because I’m not your housekeeper, I’m your roommate. And you’re really, really messy. I drew an invisible line, and you crossed it the moment you started making experiments on my desk!”

“Oh, did I? I thought roommates shared everything, no?”

Y/N sighed.

“Not personal space, Sherlock.”

He took a step towards her, meeting her eyes intensely.

“No?”

“No. And please, can you just keep away from me all those body parts you bring to the flat? God knows where you even take them from!”

Another step taken.

“From the lab.”

She ironically laughed, nodding her head.

“The lab, of course! What lab, Sherlock?”

Sherlock took another another step.

“Professor Strange’s lab.”

Y/N looked incredulously at him.

“You steal from your own professor?”

He took one more step, stopping right in front of her, their chests almost touching.

“As I had said before, projects.”

She drew a shaky breath in when she noticed their proximity. She felt his warm breath on her cheeks and it almost made her shudder. Sherlock’s eyes roamed her face, before they settled on her lips. He took her wrist and whispered:

“I’m deeply sorry. Please, forgive me. I won’t bother you from now on.”

Her heartbeat started to quicken when his thumb carresed the back of her wrist.

“It’s quite alright.”

He leaned forward, planting a kiss on the corner of her mouth. His lips lingered there for a few more moments, then he straightened his back.

“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate.”

“Shakespeare” she breathed.

Sherlock nodded his head, a small smile on his lips.

“Indeed. Do not worry about your exams. You’ll do just fine. Rest.”

He adjusted her glasses for her and shot her a small smile. Y/N was sure she was a deep red by now. She definitely suspected that Sherlock knew what he was doing.“This man, I swear.”

And then he walked past her towards the door of the flat. His steps were rapid fire, curls and coat fluttering behind him.

“Wait, where are you going?”

She struggled to keep up with his long strides. “Damn him and his long legs.”

Sherlock looked at her from the corner of his eyes, flipping the collar of his coat up.“Fancy solving mysteries? Unless you’d like to resume studying?”

She stopped in the door, looking behind her. Her exams were just around the corner. She knew that her professor was keeping an eye on her since she almost failed the last one. On the other hand, she really needed a break.

She smiled at Sherlock.

“Got a vacancy?”

Bonus:

“You shouldn’t look in the fridge tonight.”

“Why not?”

“There may be or may not be one of those body parts from the lab.”

“Sherlock!”

“Deeply sorry, darling.”

━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━

A/N: thank you so much for reading! This was my very first attempt of writing a Sherlock fic, so any kind of feedback is very much welcomed :)

If you’d like to be tagged in the next Sherlock fics, let me know!

P.S.: there was an Easter egg in this fic, have you spotted it? ;)

[inevitably-johnlocked]

Hello and happy 2025! 🥂

I am wondering if you or your fans have any idea of what this fic could be? I know I read it at least 3 or 4 years ago, and it recently came to mind again but for the life of me I can't find it again! 🤦🏼‍♀️ I thought I bookmarked it but it's not there.

Basically it is canon compliant through the wedding. John realizes at the wedding that Sherlock feels the same way that he has felt for a long time, and that he has made a mistake by marrying Mary. But with a baby on the way, he tries to stay with Mary, although he does let it slip to Sherlock about his true feelings. The stuff with her being an assassin doesn't happen. After a few months of trying to keep things as before, going on cases, etc., they finally break down and end up kissing (and possibly having sex right away, although I think it took a few more months to get to that point). They start an affair, with John promising that he will leave Mary once the baby is there. But she has a hard delivery and Post partum depression, so him leaving her keeps getting put off longer and longer. Meanwhile Sherlock is trying to remain happy with what he has. After a long period of time, maybe 1-2 years, he gives John an ultimatum of him or Mary. And John is just comfortable with the situation the way it is, especially with Rosie being there, so he chooses to stay with Mary, thinking Sherlock won't be able to stay apart from him and will come back to him. But Sherlock is brokenhearted and stays away from John for the rest of his life. I don't remember if Sherlock stays in London or not, but I seem to remember that for whatever reason, John can't get in touch with him once he realizes that he made a mistake. It didn't have a happy ever after ending for them, but I think Sherlock did end up in a relationship of some kind.

Anyway, not the usual Johnlock fic I tend to read which might be why I didn't bookmark it 🤷🏼‍♀️. But it's been on my mind and if I can I'd like to read it again.

Thank you for your time and help!

Hi Nonny!

Happy New Year! Unfortunately, while this sounds REALLY familiar, I have NO idea which fic it is... I feel like I've read it before though, and it might be on my Infidelity list, but other than that I'm unsure.

Anyone able to pinpoint this fic for Nonny?

[vad-hander]

YOU KNOW WE'RE NOT COMPATIBLE, RIGHT?

pairing: Haechan x reader

others: Mark, Jaemin, Jeno as Haechan's friends.

genre: smut | angst | fluff | college AU | fuck buddies AU to lovers | series

warnings: reader is mean and degrading towards Haechan throughout the fic (but nothing serious), mentions of drugs and alcohol, mentions of stealing, Haechan gets injured (breaks his leg, no graphic descriptions), explicit description of sexual interactions between Haechan and reader, unrequited love, reader has issues with showing her feelings, scared of other people's opinion, slowburn, romance

words: 8k

PART 1 | PART 2 | PART 3 | PART 4

“Aaa!Aaaah!“ You felt a death grip on your bicep, three steps inside that boat and you were man - or better say girl- handled into the corner next to the table with snacks. Eunsoo continued to scream into your ear as she tucked you away from everyone else. “Oh my god!“

“What? What?“ You panicked, did she somehow sneak on you and Haechan? 

“I! Kissed! Jeno!“ She announced excitedly, hiding her mouth behind her palms, like you could see the evidence on her lips. 

“Oh, wow.“ You laughed light-heartedly. You really wanted to ask how did that happen, when she was convincing you to come because Jeno wanted you-

“Did anything fun happen to you?“ She suddenly paused and then looked down on you. Oh, wow. Where did that question pop from.

“Huh?“ You giggled and grabbed her forearm. “You’re asking about my fun when you and Jeno finally ended being pining idiots and got it on? What? Did y’all only kiss? You were out of here for like… what? An hour?“ You tried to at least estimate for how long have you and Haechan been glued to each other. Has it been hopefully less… did you by any chance disappear for longer?

“I was here the whole time, you, though… What did you do outside?“ She smirked and ran her eyes over the people behind you. Like she was trying to find someone, like she was trying to find Haechan. 

You were sure Pina Coladas and being horny played with your mind, no way Eunsoo played Sherlock Holmes now. 

“Watched the moon, drank Pina Coladas.“ You trailed off carelessly, rolling your eyes slightly and coming up with things you could’ve possibly done there on your own.

“For real?“ Eunsoo dropped her excited face expression, making you believe in your acting abilities all of a sudden.

“Ugh.. yeah?“ You asked creasing your forehead in confusion.

“That’s… interesting.“ Eunsoo mirrored your face expression. 

“Ya, anyway.“ You cut her off excited. “How did that happen? What did he say? That you’re the love of his life, I hope?“ 

“Ah- I actually kissed him first.“ She bit onto her lip obviously reminiscent. 

“Okay?“ You gestured with your brows for her to continue.

“He said he thought I was in a relationship because YOU told Haechan once, your roommate had her boyfriend over, and you had to leave the house.“ She raised an accusatory brow.

“Oh shit.“ You gasped, remembering suddenly how you randomly pulled up at Haechan’s place with no excuse and had to make up shit on the spot.

“I can’t even guess why would you tell him something like that-.“ She cut her own self off. “Anyway, Jeno connected the dots and assumed I had someone. I just had to let him know I didn’t.“ She shrugged, brushing her own hair behind her ear.

“I’m sorry-.“ You pouted, you didn’t want to tell her you just randomly felt like spending time with Haechan on a random Thursday evening or whatever day it was. 

“I had to run off, but we agreed on leaving together.“ she announced proudly, not even hearing your excuse.

“First time Jeno pl-“ you exclaimed excitedly.

“Yeah, that-. Jeno lives with Jaemin, who will already bring someone, and Jeno feels awkward when Jaemin brings people, cause they’re always loud-“ she monotonously started to explain.

“Ew. Excessive info.“ you cringed.

“Yeah, so I was hoping you’d agree for Jeno to come to our place…?“ she gave you a hundred innocent blinks in a nanosecond. 

“Dude!“ You gasped in pure shock, not a suggestion you expected “I’ll feel awkward too, huh.“

“Pretty please? I was in my room, when you brought Haechan, though.“ She smirked and your head spun. Not once did you fuck Haechan in your bed, not did once you made her go through that. Just ew. 

“We did school on that couch, not sex!“ If that’s what she actually meant.

“And if I’ll promise we won’t do that, in case we will at all, anywhere but in my room?“ her hands connected in a pleading manner. “If you don’t want to be outside the door maybe you could have a sleepover…?“

“And where do you want me to sleep tonight?“ You cackled because you were happy for them to finally work it out, you weren’t happy they were trying to do it at your own expense. 

“Ugh-.“ Eunsoo ran her eyes over the crowd, probably in search of Aeri or Sua, with the way her eyes widened and she waved, you were sure she finally spotted one of them. You turned around to see your friends, only being met with Haechan. He had his hair all wet and brushed back, you could guess he splashed his face with water. You checked out him head to toe, his body overall looking calm to your eye. You looked at him neutrally, turning to Eunsoo in full confusion. 

“What are yo-“ you had to stop and contain yourself with a heavy breath. Haechan grabbed your waist from the back, not in a sensual manner, but more of I need an anchor manner, leaning over your shoulder to get closer to Eunsoo, like he couldn’t walk over you and stand directly next to her. You extended your neck so his face wouldn’t be this close to you, in case in Eunsoo’s eyes this looked even more weird than in yours.

“Haechan, hi.“ Eunsoo spoke so sweetly, like when she needed something, and you couldn’t even wonder what she possibly could need from the boy that currently fought with your fingers that were trying to get his off your waist. You ended up with your fingers trapped between your back and his front, caressed carefully over the back of your hand. “Me and my roomie are having a fight.“ She announced, side-eyeing you.

“It’s not a fight-.“ You sighed, having an actual fight behind your back.

“Yeah? I’m intrigued.“ he chuckled and turned to look at you, somehow ending up explicitly close to your face, despite your effort to move away. You were struggling to take breaths as his eyes blinked heavily, suddenly forgetting whatever giggly vibe he had, lowering his gaze onto your mouth. 

“There’s a boy I like-, I want to bring him for movies! Movies!“ She exclaimed when you gave her a stare “And am asking her, kindly, to stay over at someone else’s.“

“Oh.“ Haechan smirked. “I’m sure you have options.“ satisfied grin adorning his face like he’s the happiest man on earth.

“No, I don’t. I only sleep in my own bed.“ You frowned. Even if you were losing control from his proximity, it wasn’t like you were about to eat his face off in front of Eunsoo. He really needed to stop with that face, god. You squeezed his fingers between yours to make him feel maybe a little bit of pain and move away. He was always so dramatic about minor hits and now you were putting the biggest effort to twist his fingers and the boy didn’t even bat an eye. 

“You stayed over at Sua’s many times last year when she needed us!“ Oh right, Eunsoo was still here, outside your little bubble. 

“This doesn’t count like at all-.“ it was a family matter, it’s not the same with wanting a boy between your legs, god. And the boy that seemed to really want to get between your legs found your waist with his free hand, leaning into your face more.

“Don’t be a bitch. Let your friend get some.“ Haechan’s shoulder bumped with yours from behind. “You have so many options for sleep over.“

“Ugh.“ You rolled your eyes, you hated him teasing you. Haechan very clearly was beaming with the idea he was the potential destination. “I’ll ask Sua, okay.“ You teased, he didn’t have to know you even considered his place.

“I’ll make sure she stays safe tonight.“ Haechan excused himself, pulled back from you, very tellingly grabbed your palm and led you off your friend without allowing you to tell her a word or two. 

“Thanks, Haechan!“ Eunsoo shouted after you two.

Haechan walked confidently, forwarding from the girl and holding onto you tightly, still. 

“Hey.“ You called out finally. “How do you know where Sua is?“ you wondered, dumbly assuming he was looking for the girl.

“I don’t.“ He shrugged. 

“Where are we going then?“

“My bed.“ he said it casually, like nothing could be any more obvious than this.

“I never said I wanted that.“ You caught up to Haechan as the two of you were walking the ground again. To no surprise, Haechan ignored your words, looking very busy, turning and spinning his head. “Are you lost? Are you trying to get to your house by foot?“ 

“Huh? No.“ Haechan stopped and let go of you, quickly pressing the button on the front door to unlock the car. 

“I’m not getting in a car with a drunk you-“ you protested.

“I haven’t had a sip of anything. I got here by car, why would I anyway.“ Haechan’s hands pressed against your waist, forwarding you towards the car.

“And why would you do that?“

“Had a feeling I’ll have someone very special to bring back with me.“ He smiled cooly at you, as his hands opened the door and invited you to the passenger seat.

“Still, I haven’t said I want to come with you.“ You took a step towards him and felt Haechan’s hand grab your palm and push you to him, only to intercept his hands and with an arm around your waist forcefully push you inside the car. You sat down with not much resistance, ready to buckle up, when Haechan leaned inside the car, forcing the belt carefully over your body and locking it into its slot. Haechan’s fingers smoothed the material over your chest, focusing his gaze on what his digits did.

“Starting from now on… if I asked you to stop being so hard to get, would you do it, for me?“ 

“If you asked nicely..?“ You smiled apologetically at him, Haechan’s head moving towards you at the same time yours did to him and with a little collapse of your noses in the middle of your way, you were still able to find his lips quickly, freezing in a moment with his mouth moving against yours with a lot of unspoken attraction. You bent your neck, sealing what he asked for with an unspoken promise that you’d do anything for him and his quiet thank you as he understood everything you told him. 

-

“Need clothes or you’ll spare me effort and get in here naked?“ he shouted from his bedroom and you shivered at the idea of getting in his bed in this new unspoken status you had. Would it be different? You wanted everything to be different, but at the same time keep everything as it is because you really liked him like that.

“I’m not fucking you tonight.“ you let him know, once again, the same way you did in his car and in the lobby and in the elevator, and at the door of his place. 

“Neither am I.“ he stroke you with a different answer and you actually had to walk into the room to see what made him change his mind.

“Yeah?“ You asked confused.

“Changed my mind last minute. A sleepover with the girl I like sounds even better.“ He cooed in a baby-girl manner, kissing your cheek sweetly, before moving his feet to the wardrobe. “Do you need pants? Or just a tee?“ His fingers ran over clothes that were neatly hung on hangers and even more neatly folded on the shelves. You tip-toed behind him in an outburst of feelings and in privacy of his room you suddenly felt overwhelmed at the idea you two confessed to each other your feelings, it felt so terribly foreign you had to make sure you didn’t make this stuff up, that you weren’t hallucinating off those Pina coladas. Your arms wrapped around Haechan’s torso from the back, burying your face between his shoulder blades. You could feel him puff a little bit of air out as he so confusedly, reached behind his back to touch your body and understand what you were doing.

“Baby love, are you still drunk on those cocktails?“ he chuckled with a very soft tone of his voice. Haechan’s fingers traced your arms, finally getting to your fingertips and you let him unlock them to entangle with his own. 

“No, I’m just glad I can do this now.“

“Oh.“ he mouthed, trying to unwrap you from him. 

“Can I hug you a little more?“ you murmured and felt actually drunk. Not on drinks, on Haechan, who seemed to be the main intoxication of the evening.

“But I really want to hug you too.“ He whined.

“Okay.“ you loosened your grip and in a second Haechan turned around, flashing you against him, your face now hiding in his neck and he was so right to ask for that because it felt so good to be in this cocoon of his love. You hugged his waist once again, his face rubbing affectionately against your neck. It felt so soothing, right until the moment his lips started to pepper little kisses and tickle your entire being.

“Aren’t human brains crazy?“ he spoke suddenly, making his way up your throat.

“Mmh?“ 

“Isn’t it crazy, that we like each other so much, but wouldn’t tell anything for months?“ his palms smoothed your hair back like you were a cat.

“Ah, should I say it wasn’t that long for me or should I agree?“ you smiled, rubbing your palm over Haechan’s cheek. 

“I know it’s hard for you to show me your vulnerable side. I appreciate you even more, because you work really hard to show it to me at times.“ his fingers squeezed your head in a funny manner that you guessed was supposed to show his affection.

“Mmh.“ You nodded and leaned in to press your lips against his. Haechan quickly caught up to you, moving his mouth in unison with yours, slipping his tongue inside your mouth. Your hands sneaked behind his clothing, stroking his bare back, sides and stomach. Haechan grabbed your shoulders, turning you to press against the wardrobe he earlier tried to find clothes in. “What are you doing?“ you smirked, moving your hands to the apples of his cheeks. Haechan’s fingers laced with yours, forcing your hands off him. 

“We’re not changing our minds, are we?“ he squeezed your fingers in his. 

“We aren’t, but kissing is not fucking, so why’re we asking?“ You tried to catch up with his mouth once again. Being deprived of such a privilege for months of stubbornness, you’d like to get your fill of him as fully as possible. You’d hug and kiss him all night long if he’d let you.

“Go take the shower first, I’ll wait for you here.“ Haechan ran his fingers through your nape, tangled up in your hair and kissed your lips in a quick lick. “Take whatever clothes you need.“ his hand patted the wardrobe door and he walked back, dropping on his bed face down. 

-

“Heeey.“ Haechan cooed above your ear at the sight of you cocooned in his bed sheets, eyes closed as you were very slowly dozing off.

“Hm?“ you blinked nonchalantly at him, holding back a stretch. You were trying to act innocent, it was way past your bedtime, it was cozy, quiet and dark and Haechan took ten million years in that shower. You had no other choice but to fall asleep. “What took you so long, huh?“

“I was there for no longer than 15 minutes. Not my fault you fall asleep quickly.“ Haechan pecked your cheek and rolled over you to the other side of the bed. “Good night, I guess?“ he mumbled in obvious pout, you could sense it even with your back. “Sweet dreams.“ His fingers patted your bum through the duvet. You had to turn around and see him for yourself. Even in the darkness of the room you could see him laying in the farthest corner of the bed from you, forcing a chuckle out of you that you tried to swallow resulting in a sound that sounded like you were choking. 

“So you take me all the way to your bed, for us to sleep on totally different sides of it?“ You crawled over to him and Haechan turned on his side, you guessed to see you better.

“I’m just trying to be considerate of your feelings.“ He continued to talk in a pout, like he was very hurt by you falling asleep.

“Suddenly?“ Your fingers patted his pouted lips.

“I always have.“ He pointed the obvious, you just wanted to tease him a little. 

“You have, you’re right.“ Haechan grabbed your fingers, trapping your hand in his, to move it away from his mouth. “I wonder though, what would you do, if you didn’t?“ Aren’t you the most cuddly, touchy-handsy person ever? I was fantasising how I wouldn’t be able to sleep because you holding me in your sleep would make my heart pound like crazy through the whole night. You wanted to say that too, but didn’t want to show your cards yet.

“I’d hug and kiss you all night long.“ he chuckled at the admittance. His own palm intertwined with yours covered his face. 

“I bet I’d love that.“ You whispered distantly. 

“Yeah, sure-“ somehow Haechan took this as sarcasm. 

“No, I’m sure I’d love that.“ You repeated more confidently. Haechan stopped the chuckling and very swiftly pulled your body to his side of the bed by the arm that was his prisoner previously. 

Haechan’s arms like tentacles wrapped over your body, forcing your hands around his neck. He moved so expertly, you wanted to tease and ask how many people he hugged in that bed before you. His thigh wrapped around your legs, giving you satisfying pressure of his body on yours and leaving you with no chance to move any of your limbs at all.

“Do you hate it?“ Haechan’s very hot breath on your neck made your heart tingle.

“No.“ you almost said you love it. “You know, they say it’s better to sleep under a weight. I guess body weight counts.“ Your fingers traced his nape, you tried very hard to stay up for him.

“I can’t believe tomorrow I’ll wake up and you’ll still be here.“ The sigh that left his throat made your head go dizzy. It’s like he couldn’t breathe properly before and now that the idea of you not leaving him at night was settled, he was breathing full-chest again.

“Not like I could get from under you unnoticed.“ you chuckled, not getting any reaction from Haechan. You had to add on top of that, you were too worried his feelings might’ve gotten hurt by what you said you couldn’t fall asleep anymore. “Not like I would ever want to voluntarily leave your hugs.“

“Good night, baby love.“ Haechan kissed your shoulder blade affectionately. 

-

A slap on your butt and you jumped in place, first feelings in your body being frustration and distress. A soft tap afterwards and all blood outflowed from your face for a reason. Aeri stood right in front of you on the other side of crosswalk and she had to be either blind or too preoccupied with her phone to not notice how Haechan’s hand landed right on your hip now.

“Hi, pretty.“ Haechan mouthed as your face turned in his direction. He smiled sweetly and it could’ve been a sweet greeting on your side too, but the traffic light turned green and the girl started walking in your direction. You grabbed his wrist, to force it off you and pressed it against his own stomach with a little tap of your fingers.

“Hold it in, please. She doesn’t know.“ Haechan mouthed an o as he acknowledged Aeri approaching. 

“He…llo?“ Aeri immediately questioned and you weren’t surprised. She was so uptight with Haechan it didn’t sit with you how someone could really hate someones guts to that extent. You used to hate him for how annoying and teasing he was, but it wasn’t to the point you could feel sickness in your throat with disgust and it kinda looked like Aeri just felt that - swallowing thickly the letters on her tongue. 

The girl grabbed your forearm and pulled you towards the building, ignoring the boy you liked completely. Haechan wasn’t the one to be flustered or taken aback. You don’t even think he felt sad with that behaviour, but you felt like you did so on his behalf. It’s been a little over a week since your confessions in mutual attraction and the very rare 3 times he tried to slide himself into your friend group didn’t go well. You cleared your throat, trying to fit in a word in Aeri’s non-stop blabbering. You could see Haechan following right behind you with his shade on the asphalt, reaching out blindly to his shoulder, forcing him to walk in one line with you two.

“Haechan’s here too. He bumped into me on the way, right?“ You shoot him a glance.

“Yeah, bumped.“ he cackled “On accident, with my hand.“ He widened his eyes, lifting the very hand he slapped you with, giving you an amused wink afterwards. You couldn’t hold back the eye roll. “Do you two always meet on that crosswalk?“ he tried to make small talk and your head turned to see Aeri’s reaction. Her eyes were set on her smartphone.

“Huh?“ She asked confused as your elbow hit her ribs lightly. Her eyes ran between you two and Haechan repeated himself in exactly the same wording. “No, I had an appointment and made it a little too early to class.“

“I think we’re going to be there just in time.“ You chuckled.

“Yeah, exactly.“ The girl nodded and re-linked her arm into yours. “I don’t see a point in coming too early. Everyone should be at least seated when I come.“

“Gotcha.“ Haechan’s head bobbed in confusion and his eyes questioned you, instead of your friend. “I didn’t know being fashionably late to classes was a thing.“

“It is. What’s the point in waiting for professors? If I’m 10 minutes late it’s never even properly started.“

“I could only wonder what things are more important in your life than being on time at school.“ He chuckled not offensively, just because he couldn’t understand her point of view even though he never stroke you as someone that loved to follow rules. You would tell him she just couldn’t wake up and get ready on time. Like, crazily never on time type of person, but she seemed to not want to give him that information. 

“So you’re never late?“ She sounded accusatory, your head going from one side to the other, while you tried to read both their emotions and deescalate the small talk at the right time.

“If I feel like I’m going to be late, I just get into my car and drive here. In other instances I walk, so no, I’m never late.“ 

“Yeah, sure. Cut the crap, dude.“ Aeri rolled her eyes. ��You literally overslept your project presentation day.“ Yeah, right. You remembered not telling your friends anything about that when he told you the truth. Just a shrug of your shoulders when they assumed he slept in.

“I-“ he looked confused at the girl. “I didn’t, I had to deal with personal matters, FYI.“ 

“Of course. That’s what everyone says when they miss school after a party.“

“Sure.“ Haechan agreed sweetly and you were thankful. You guessed he was in a very good mood this morning. Not to lie into anyones face, you were walking on cloud 9 on your way to meet Aeri, replaying in your head Haechan’s sweet voice and words from last nights phone call. Is it too weird if I’m going to say that the past week’s been probably one of the happiest in my life? It wasn’t weird, you would tell him you were pretty much the same if you had the courage to be as open about everything with him. Having him on the phone before sleep felt so sweet and classy. It would only be better if he was right next to you, but for some reason he didn’t want you two jump back into that. “What is your first class?“

“Marketing in bulding 5.“ Aeri sighed. 

“Mine’s in building 2.“ You sighed too, as the three of you walked through the campus.

“Cool, mine’s in building 2 too.“ Haechan quickly replied, grabbing onto your wrist. “Let’s hurry to make it on time.“ He smiled politely at Aeri and walked off, forcing you to follow behind.

“Bye, see you for lunch.“ You waved Aeri off, and the girl waved back confused, turning away. “Isn’t your first class in building 6? Last night you sai-“ you moved your attention to the boy that pulled you behind him. 

“She walked away?“ He asked, slowing down a little.

“Yeah.“ You gave him a nod and Haechan’s eyes focused on you. You stopped, expecting an answer, building 2 and 6 were on completely different sides of the campus. Haechan lowered his gaze onto his fingers on your wrist, chewing on his lower lip in a thought process. His fingers crawled down to your palm, quickly running his fingers through yours. Before you could make any sound his hand guided both yours into his bomber jacket’s pocket. 

“I’m going to walk you first. If I’m going to be fashionably late to my class, no one’s going to die.“ You chuckled, squeezing his palm in yours. Haechan nodded slightly and returned to walking, his thumb stroking you on the way. 

“You know, how I don’t really feel like PDA…“ you started softly.

“Exactly why your hand’s sweating in my pocket now and not freely hang in the fresh air.“

“It’s not sweating.“ You protested with a chuckle. You honestly could agree with him, it was a little warm inside that pocket.

“It is, a little, just agree with me.“ He stated matter-of-factly. And you couldn’t hold back a smile. Gosh, what a stupid I’m-so-in-love-with-this-boy grin you must be having right now. 

“Anyway, don’t randomly slap me like that. First of all, I could’ve hit you. Second of all, what if Aeri saw this?“

“I think you kinda messed up the order of the reasons?“ He teased and you tried to pull your hand out of his hold in return. “Even if she saw that, what would she say? Oh my god my friend hooks up with this crazily attractive, funny, smart and all-you-could-ever-want guy? I mean, jealousy, yes, I’d feel that too.“

“Haechan, I’m serious.“ You pouted.

“I heard you, I got you. Want to go on a date tonight?“ He said in one breathe, you took a second to distinguish his words, right after giving him an excited nod. Haechan smirked at you, as you jumped in place slightly. Before you could process your moves, your other hand reached to his waist and you gave him a hug. Haechan’s free hand returned the gesture, pressing your body more tightly against his. “Okay, right after school or later at night?“ 

“Night, I think.“ You pushed yourself off him quickly, like nothing at all happened.

“Okay, with no intention to stay over?“

“With the very intention, but I can’t and will have to go back home.“ you couldn’t hold back sulking in your voice.

“I’ll cover for you.“ He smirked.

“Yeah, sure.“

“Just tell Eunsoo the truth, I guarantee you she’ll happily send you off on your merry way.“ You didn’t doubt your roomy, you very insecure in your own self. Not in a way you weren’t sure you liked Haechan - that thought very firmly sat in your head by now, you weren’t really yet there to let the whole world know about it and as much as you wanted to always stay true and honest to him you couldn’t just say that out loud. Haechan was so free and calm in that sense, you wouldn’t be surprised the whole world would’ve known without having an idea who you two were. The only reason he held back was how reserved you were. And he saw you being just that - he gave you time to adjust and open up to him more and eventually, open to people around you. But really, it wasn’t the time nor the place to get deep in your thoughts and you blinked at him. 

“You don’t know her.“ You nodded and Haechan stared at you funny. Does he… know her? Through Jeno, maybe. Not in a I’ve-been-sharing-pads-and-bras-with-the-girl-for-the-past-few-years kind of way and that technically meant he knew nothing. 

“Of course.“ he stretched out his lips in a grin. You weren’t sure if his mind was still on Eunsoo or on the fact you stood closely to him after the hug and his head moved closer to yours by a millimetre a second.

“Didn’t I tell you to slow down on PDA, my friend.“ You giggled, trying to sound scolding, as your hand caught his head, hooking your thumb over his ear, as he went fully in to kiss you. 

“Just a goodbye kiss.“ Haechan half-whispered, his hand finding its place on your waist. You had to give in since the feeling made goosebumps run down your side. Before he could even decipher what’s about to happen you pecked the corner of his mouth and took a paced step back. 

“Bye-bye.“ You waved at him, having to actually run backwards as Hyuck took a step towards you. When he lifted his foot to try once more you went for the same move backwards and he went through multiple feelings in a second, rolling his eyes backwards as his hand went down his face, biting down on his lip and chuckling to himself. You waved him off with a smile, only to be met with a scolding pointing finger of his as he walked away.

“Later. You’ll regret all this a little later.“ He nodded to himself, finally walking away. 

Oh boy, were you hoping he’ll make those words come true.

-

You were strolling through the alley at the Yeouido side of the Hangang park. You would’ve loved to go down to the river and touch the water maybe, but Haechan cried for at least five minutes how it was still hard for him to take a set of stairs and you would’ve had to carry him back on your back, if you’d convince him to go down to the embankment. 

You really didn’t mind though, not with the way Haechan’s thumb was caressing your thumb with every step he took. 

“I really hope that cherry blossoms didn’t all fall to the ground yet.“ you broke off the silence. It really wasn’t that late, but there wasn’t a single passer by on your way, except for a dog owner that crossed the road on the opposite side of it like 10 minutes ago. There were only half-empty busses, that brought some sort of sound into the scenery. You couldn’t love this district more - right next to National Assembly was your favourite spot to think and to enjoy loneliness, except for now you weren’t alone. 

“We should’ve went to that park with the waterfall I told you about. And during the day.“ he tried to sound nagging, but he really failed with the way his lips quirked up at you.

“Shh. It’s the best place I promise.“ you squeezed his fingers in yours. “The Cherry Blossom alley starts right after the crosswalk.“ You announce excited, stepping in front of him, to grab his full attention, your other hand lacing through his fingers as well. 

“Are you going to walk backwards?“ he asks amused.

“Yup. Focus on me.“ you really wanted to say it casually, but couldn’t resist smiling at his lovey-dovey stare. You took a step and then one more backwards, scrutinising yourself for making that decision, it really wasn’t that convenient to walk backwards on such flooring. Haechan somehow could sense you’re about to trip over your feet, as his hand lands on your waist right in time. Now you looked like you were dancing under the streetlight, with your hand landing on Haechan’s bicep, taking steps deeper into the alley. You had to force your eyes off Haechan’s intense stare for a moment, just to make sure a cherry tree was above you. It was. Still perfectly blossomed, and perfectly pink, illuminated by the street light. “Look up.“ You announce and raise your eyes back up first. The view of blossoming cherry was pretty, no matter how many years you spent staring at it - you couldn’t get enough of it and Haechan’s warmth was making the feeling even better. It felt so nice to stand there in comforting quietness with someone you liked so much. Actually, it was a little too quiet from his side. Did he… not like it? Your eyes fell back to the boy that held tightly onto your waist. The intensity of his stare forced you to swallow, it seemed like he didn’t move his eyes once off your face. “Will you?“ your eyes signalling up, only your mouth moving, but with the way Haechan’s gaze pierced through you, you’re sure he was able to read your lips.

“I’m in love with you.“ he whispered calmly.

“Haec-“ you were cut off with his heart-shaped lips. He paced his mouth against yours, you didn’t expect him to be so fierce out here at the cherry blossom alley. You let go of his shoulder, taking in your hand his pretty face. Haechan’s body was burning, you could feel him on fire as you snugged your body more against his. He wasn’t burning because he was sexually affected, no, it really didn’t seem like it. It was a different kind of warmth. It felt like he was burning inside from his feelings, he was overwhelmed with his feelings towards you and it made you feel totally overwhelmed because you couldn’t understand. How, just how. “How would you know that?“ You had to voice it to him, because it felt like you were hanging on a cloud. 

“What do you mean?“ he chuckled, tucking your head under his chin.

“How do you know you’re in love.“ You state dumbly.

“Because it crossed my mind that cherry blossoms would never compare to you in prettiness.“

“Hm?“

“If I’ll want to look at something pretty, I would just call you. You’re the prettiest to me.“ You wanted to tell him something, anything at all, but all words got stuck in your throat. “That’s why I know, and because just thinking of you brings me joy and comfort I’ve never experienced before.“

“I’m so sorry.“ you sigh into his chest, squeezing your eyes shut in sorry.

“Why?“  Haechan immediately worries, you could tell not only by his voice, but by the way his body stiffened in your hold.

“It’s hard for me to say it like that, to word these things to you in the same way. But it doesn’t mean I don’t feel the same way. As we walked here I was thinking how it felt nice to be in my favourite spot in the city with my… favourite man in the whole city of Seoul.“ you gulped and tried to catch a glimpse of his face expression, but Haechan pulled you in a tighter hug. “I would just love to stand here with you and have your body press against mine all day and all night. For weeks, months and eternity, because you bring me comfort.“ Haechan almost squeezed the life out of you, taking a couple steps to the side of the alley, to rest his bum against fencing. 

“Okay, let’s stay like this forever.“ He whispered into your shoulder and falling silent, you closed your eyes in utter cosiness, your fingers thoughtlessly running over his nape. Little waves of wind forced already bloomed cherry blossoms to fall onto your head and shoulders, but you couldn’t be less bothered to react to it.

“But just how introverted you have to be, for your favourite spot in the city to be this human-less corner next to the Assembley, baby love.“ Haechan broke off the silence maybe after eternity, maybe a minute, you couldn’t decipher how much time passed in that comforting drowsiness. He chuckled and rubbed your back for reaction. 

“Yeouido is the busiest during daytime, come on.“ You protested quickly, bumping your fist with his shoulder. “Anyway, I’m not deeply introverted, I have friends, I’m just shy with strangers.“

“Me too.“ he smiled.

“You really aren’t, come on.“

“No, I’m for real. I get all flabbergasted and unable to put two words in a sentence. It happens when I’m forced to present in front of people or get in a company with many strangers.“

“Wait-“ wheels in your head moved fast. “So what was the real reason when you didn’t show up at the presentation of our project?“ You weren’t mad, you liked him a disgusting amount, if he told you he didn’t come because he was scared to present, you would’ve kissed him and giggled at how cute he was.

“No.“ Haechan said confused, before his brain connected the dots. “No!“ he protested loudly, finally getting what you implied on. “No, I would’ve fought my fear of strangers for you. It really is just an accident-.“ you reached to his lips for a quick peck. A thank you, for saying he cares, for making you believe he cares with the way he talks and blinks and breathes. “I’m not going to lie, a very lucky coincidence, but still.“ Haechan rubbed your cheek affectionally “Actually, I never said it properly, I’m so sorry I left you alone that day. I was in agony before the trial began, and then they forced me to leave my phone at the entrance of court room. I was only able to reply an hour later and it didn’t seem like good timing and you ran to my place all mad and instead of saying the truth I decided to get on your nerves.“ 

“I was hoping you’d walk out after me when I stomped out of your place and bring me back to you.“ You admitted, your finger drawing lines on his shoulder.

“Fuck.“ Haechan reached to kiss you, but you felt only the ghost of his lips, as he pulled back. “I thought you hated my guts and I lost you forever.“

“And I hated your guts and stood behind your door for 10 minutes in hopes you’d kiss me apologising in your bed.“

“Fuck.“

“Yeah, that would do, too.“ you smart, getting an annoyed snicker off his lips.

“Stupidly plain humour, that’s one more reason I know I love you.“ 

“I love you.“ you murmur against the skin of Haechan’s cheek. Very shyly, but it feels so appropriate to let him know those feelings are very much reciprocal. 

“What?“ he pushes his nose against your cheek, in a blunt manner to tease you. 

“Ugh.“ Your eyes rolled, he could’ve not ruined the moment for you to repeat it louder. But oops, the moment fleeted. 

“One more I love you and I’m taking you straight to the registration office.“ 

“Shut up.“ You punch his chest and take a step back. Haechan’s arms slide down your bum, you ignoring his gesture. Your eyes focused on cherry blossoms that landed in the hood of his hoody, multiple of those. Your fingers picked up one, twirling it in your fingers. “You know that its good luck to eat the cherry blossom that fell on you?“

“Yeah.“ Haechan nodded almost immediately. Confusion almost made you give away your lie. There wasn’t such thing, at least you never heard of anything like that, you just wanted to joke with him. Well, if  he says he heard of it, then.

“Open your mouth then, prosperity, eternal luck, happiness and love await you on the other side of the chewing process.“ You twirled the blossom in front of his face, expecting a reaction, but Haechan plainly opened his mouth. Okay, not a reaction you expected. 

“Aaah.“ He even voiced his wish to get it over with quickly. Well obviously, he wouldn’t die from a blossom in his system, you put tens of these in your mouth every year, trying to take a pretty pick and failing each year, but somehow you still malfunctioned. 

“Did you really hear of such a thing?“ You creased your forehead in confusion.

“No, plain humour, didn’t I just say. I wanted to see where you’d lead it.“

“I would’ve led it in your mouth.“

“Sounds kinda funny, if you take it out of context.“ You squirmed and cringed.

“Ew.“ Haechan took the blossom from your hold and put it in his pocket. “What will you do with it?“

“Look.“ Haechan ignored your question, grabbing your fingertips with his long digits. His eyes trained on his hold and you lowered your eyes to it too. 

“What is it?“ You asked confused.

“We’ve been doing a lot of things for a little while.“ He started slowly, flexing his fingers over yours. 

“Mmh.“ there was nothing else to do but agree.

“We’ve been doing even more things for a long while.“

“Right.“ Your eyes caught Haechan’s stare, that he now moved to your face.

“We never talked about anything. You never asked why I asked you to sleep with me, you never told me why the hell did you even agree to that stupid idea.“ He snorted in an attempt to contain his laugh. “We did different things and hurt each other and now we’re here holding hands on a cherry blossom alley. I know you don’t like to talk about what you’re feeling much, but I do and I really need to talk to you about it all or I’ll go crazy.“

“I get it.“ You squeezed Haechan’s fingers in support, giving him a little nod. At least one person in this relationship didn’t have problems with voicing out his feelings, you smiled at him. “You can tell me anything. I’ll- well, I’ll try my best to do the same.“

“I really like you.“ Haechan sighed, heaved with feelings. It almost felt like he was about to burst with the way his eyes were glistening. You chuckled, not in a mean way.

“I know, I do really like you too.“ You let go of his fingers to cup his cheek and coo at how sweetly he was looking at you. 

“I liked you since the first time I took you to my place. The first time when we talked and you were hella drunk and I was too and I thought I wanted to kiss you even before I knew your name properly. And then we somehow ended up in my bed and I thought that we can lead this somewhere. But you ran away the moment I dozed off, and then that other time and the other. And all those times.“

“You should’ve said something-“

“I couldn’t, not when you were making that discussed face expression when you were sober, when you were seeing me at school. I couldn’t risk at least getting this much of you taken away from me.“

“I’m sorry.“

“No but it’s not like I’m asking for pity.“ 

“I know.“ You nodded and caressed his bicep reassuringly. “I would’ve never guessed you liked me. You acted like you wanted to sleep with someone and I was a chosen option. I never even thought we could be anything like that up until that boat thing.“

“You liked me only back then?“ Haechan exclaimed scandalised.

“Well-.“ You smiled. “Yeah. I didn’t have a thought like that before you dropped your head on my lap and after you did… I couldn’t stop thinking how fucking attractive you are.“

“I’m hurt.“ He pouted too playful for you to believe him.

“Why?“

“I thought okay, you didn’t like me maybe after our first or second time, because you were wasted and all that. But when you got to my place to spend the time together for whatever reason, didn’t you-.“ he paused and grimaced confusion. “I thought you liked me and that’s why you came.“

“I don’t think that was the reason. I’m sorry.“ Both your hands landed on Haechan’s cheeks, caressing his hurt expression, opting for a peck when it didn’t work out on him.

“Not even a little bit?“

“The tiniest bit? Like under nine locks deep down in my heart bit?“

“Okay, I’ll take that. Anyway, I liked you for a very long time. Just wanted you to know that. Wanna have a giggle?"

"Mmh?" You were expecting literally anything fall off his lips, you couldn’t wrap your head around this boy before your eyes turned into a very sweet mush because he was in love… with you. 

"I think the fact you were telling shit about me kind of made me fall harder for you." Okay, maybe you weren’t prepared for literally anything to fall off his lips. " Jaemin said once he thinks I have a degrading kink and I told him to fuck himself, but kind of being with you made me question if he’s somehow… right?" You  scoffed flabbergasted at his words. 

"Should I… continue, then… being mean to you?" You giggled, intertwining your fingers with Haechan’s.

"At certain point I started to feel like I never was enough, I was getting confused." You squeezed his fingers with yours.

"I’m sorry."

"I’m just glad we worked this all out. If I say it honestly, you’re partially a bitch and I’m a fan of those parts of you, but…"

"Shut up." You cooed "You’re so cheesy I can’t believe people take you as a bad boy."

"Who does?" Haechan chuckled in pure disbelief. 

"My friends, they say you’re a bad guy. That’s why I try to keep us lowkey."

"Maybe they’re just jealous huh? I am very much every girls’ dream." he made his palms go under the chin, to look all cutesy.

"You are very much right, I’m sure of it."

[gregorovitch-adler]

Beloved

"So, she's alive then. How are we feeling about that?" John asked, holding a whiskey glass in his left hand.

He knew he had wrecked everything by not denying Irene's statement: "Well, I am (gay). Look at us both."

How could he? Wasn't that the truth? Sherlock was the person John and Irene Adler had both fallen for, even though he did not comply with the sexual orientation of either of them.

Once she had hit the core of the matter with a few words, John had no option but to remain speechless; much as he would have loved to retort - just to get a one-up over her in a conversation for once.

On the contrary, John had huffed out a short laugh in approval.

What was worse, Sherlock had heard all that. He had been standing right there the whole time, revealing his presence because of that bloody text alert sound.

Meaning: Sherlock now knew how John felt for him.

John gulped down his throat at the horrifying thought.

Sherlock was holding his violin close to his neck, contemplating which tune to play next. Another song for Irene, John thought bitterly.

John had helped Mrs Hudson with her bruises from those anonymous attackers. Sherlock had taken care of those attackers on his own, and now they were probably locked up in Scotland Yard.

The point was that John had tried to approach Sherlock, wanting to clarify everything after whatever happened in the Battersea Power Station. To make things less awkward, if at all that was possible. But he had been interrupted the first time. So, he was giving it a go once more.

"D'you think you'll be seeing her again?" John pressed, unwilling to let go of this subject today, even after Sherlock's lack of response - which had led to a rather pointed silence in the sitting room.

Sherlock walked closer to the window, without even bothering to turn around. "Happy New Year, John," he said over his shoulder and began to play.

John felt physically sick in his stomach. He sipped on his whiskey, wincing at the burning sensation in his mouth. Somehow, even swallowing a sip of alcohol felt like trying to shove a large piece of rock down his throat.

By not replying to John's very direct questions, Sherlock had made it crystal clear where his interests lay. The Woman.

John had fallen for Sherlock a long time ago. He would sometimes scare himself off with the amount of seriousness he felt whenever he thought about his love for Sherlock.

He was John's beloved, in his mind at least.

Now, if Sherlock had fallen for someone else... who was John to get in the way?

John just wanted to see Sherlock happy and stable. If Irene being alive after all made him feel that, then so be it.

John sighed wistfully, looking in Sherlock's direction one last time, before he made his way to the staircase leading to his bedroom.

Subconsciously, he gripped the whiskey glass tight on his way.

***

Prompt Beloved by @onesmallfamily

Tags: @helloliriels @topsyturvy-turtely @gaylilsherlock @lisbeth-kk @keirgreeneyes @missdeliadili @lookingforlifeoutthere @peanitbear @a-victorian-girl @calaisreno @curlyjohnlock .

[multiland]

summary: They say people turn into their most vulnerable selves in the middle of the night, can you trust yourself at 3 a.m. to keep hiding the crush you've been harboring on your friend?

pairing: Joshua x female reader (ft. best friend Jeonghan and the rest of svt)

genre: friends to lovers, fluff, smut.

warnings: kissing, tension, fingering, a bit of oral (m), mutual pining, cursing, mentions of alcohol, Joshua being oblivious, soft dom Joshua, body worshipping, dirty talk, unprotected sex. Shua is the sweetest. This was an old fic I wrote for another group, so I decided to take it and edit it enough to use it again.

please leave some feedback!! it motivates me a lot🩷

word count: 12k

You’ve heard a lot of good things about turning twenty-seven, and despite you not being the biggest fan of celebrating your birthdays, you weren’t surprised the moment your group of friends decided to book a trip to celebrate properly.

Consisting of mostly males, you’re used to them taking every opportunity to drink and throw parties. However, since spending time with them is fun and makes you happy, you would never actually complain.

"Do you think it's gonna be like, really cold out there?" That's the main question spinning around your head as you stare at your open closet, still debating on which pieces of clothing are the ones that should be packed.

Jeonghan, who's sprawled on your bed with his back against the headboard as he scrolls through social media, hums, not looking up.

He’s been your best friend since high school. You had heard about him back then due to his prince-like appearance, and him unsurprisingly having every single girl wrapped around his finger. Funny enough, and seemingly accustomed to the attention, he never really batted an eye at any of them. Despite being aware of his almost-unrealistic beauty, you didn’t really gave much thought to anything related to him besides whatever you’d hear the girls fussing about across the corridors. 

But then, on a good day, you found each other rolling your eyes at the same girl’s annoying tone of voice, the two of you realized and even chuckled. It was an instant click and you’ve been inseparable since then. 

A perfect balance between being different but so similar at the same time. You truly didn’t believe in soulmates, but turns out you can find one in the shape of a friend.

It had never occurred to you, however, that befriending the prince of school would instantly make you part of a much bigger group of, admittedly, really good-looking guys and girls when you started college.

That’s what brings you here.

"What do you think, Sherlock?" He quirks a brow, as he glances up in your direction. "We're going to the mountains, there's no way it's gonna be hot up there unless it’s like, a volcano."

An annoyed sigh falls past your lips as you roll your eyes at his antics, grabbing different styles of sweaters, hoodies, jackets, and all that could be of use in such weather. Turning around, you carefully fold your clothes and place them into the opened suitcase at the edge of the bed.

"Please remind me. Why were we going to the mountains instead of the beach, again?" 

Jeonghan's lips curl up in a soft smirk, locking his phone and tossing it to the side before his eyes land on yours.

"Because going to the beach is too basic. We always go to the beach."

"So all of you just decided to go on a trip to the cold ass mountains and rent wooden cabins in the middle of April in the name of… What? Eccentricity?" You narrow your eyes. "Yeah. Sounds like something my group of friends would do."

The man chuckles.

"Don't be a brat. You didn't have to pay for anything, this is your birthday gift from us, and all you have to do is look pretty and try to get your grumpy ass to have fun." 

You fold your arms over your chest, raising a brow at his words.

"Yeah, sounds like my dream holiday having to babysit drunk adults."

He clicks his tongue, shaking his head.

"Look, complain all you want once we’re back. Let’s not ruin the mood." He insists. "Besides, since it's your birthday, you can avoid all kinds of responsibilities. But you don't tell them I told you that or i’ll make sure to bring Soonyoung to your bed when he’s drunk and crying."

Panic instantly crosses your features.

“My lips are totally sealed.” It's a promise, gesturing to zip them with your fingers.

Plopping yourself down onto the mattress, you lay your head on Jeonghan’s lap. His slender fingers immediately fly to thread in your hair, gentle scraps on your scalp relaxing your body.

"Then, does that mean you're gonna take care of them for me?" You ask, looking up at his face in hope, trying your best puppy eyes just to guilt trip him.

Jeonghan scoffs.

"Me? No way. I did it once and ended up having both Seokmin and Soonyoung sneaking into my bed. Soonyoung kept crying and Seokmin just laughed at him. They were so loud I had to leave the room. Not to mention I had to wash the damn sheets cause one of them vomited in the middle of the night."

Grimacing at the thought, you really try not to laugh at the same time.

“Sounds like a ride.” You tease. "What about Seungkwan?"

Dark eyes glare down at you.

"He was sleeping peacefully in his bed."

"Why didn't one of them go to his bed?"

Sighing, he says: "I didn’t let them move. Having these two drunk is one thing, having these two drunk and Seungkwan cursing at the top of his lungs at three in the morning is something entirely different. We’ve had complaints from the neighbors."

"Yeah… I wouldn’t risk it, either."

Then, he chuckles.

"The best option is leaving them to either Cheol or Minghao." You nod in agreement, “Preferably Cheol. Hao doesn’t have that much patience after a while.”

Right after, his phone goes off and he checks the incoming message. "Well, here we go again." He comments, taking a deep breath before pressing the bridge of his nose between his fingers.

Your eyes open, brows knitting together as you sit up.

"What's up?"

"Soonyoung was betting with Seokmin and got his head stuck somewhere around the park fence." He explains, "Gotta go. Sorry."

He stands up, and you can do nothing but smile sympathetically at him.

"Good luck with that." With the same smile, you pat his arm. He steps forward and flicks on your forehead with his fingers, before walking to the door. You groan in response, rubbing the sore area.

"Don't forget the vans will be here at 7 a.m."

Right. You need to act like an early bird, and your first reaction to the reminder is a groan.

"How many times do I have to say I’m not a morning person?"

“The same amount of times I have to tell Soonyoung to keep his head out of any kind of holes.” He adds, waving one last time before finally exiting your room.

As soon as he leaves, you let out a big sigh. Truthfully, you’re intrigued by how this trip is going to be, and you kinda know for sure sleeping’s gonna be a challenge.

The sound of your alarm pulls you out of the slumber you worked so hard to get in. Groaning, you stretch out your arm to stop the torture from continuing any further. Your lids don’t seem to cooperate, too tired and heavy to open and making you question if you really need to go on that trip to begin with. You could just call them and say you woke up feeling ill and you can’t leave the house while being sick, right?

As if on cue, you instantly have Jeonghan’s voice resonating in your head, telling you all the possible consequences of you bailing everyone when everything’s ready. All the ways he would blackmail you into getting up, in short.

So after taking a deep breath and stretching your limbs once again, you pull the duvet off of you and stand up, dragging your feet sleepily towards the bathroom to take a shower and get as ready as you can actually be.

Admittedly, you took longer than you should have thanks to all the times you dozed off in the shower, and that’s exactly what’s making you rush as your phone keeps buzzing incessantly against the marbled sink, with incoming calls from your best friend.

You can’t even make yourself look presentable at this point, messily throwing your clothes on and grabbing your luggage to drag downstairs, your hair still dripping wet.

“I’m coming, I’m coming!” You exclaim, picking up one of his calls, and then hanging up before you could even get a response from the other side of the line.

Turning the lights off, you open the front door and place the luggage down to close the entrance, trying to catch your breath, cause for fuck’s sake, you’re still sleepy, it’s early in the morning and you already not only had to run downstairs, but also carry such a heavy suitcase on your own…Cause if you’re being honest, you probably packed more than what you needed for a weekend-long trip.

The sound of the van’s door sliding open can be heard from behind, as you lock the door. The wet droplets falling from your hair dampen your shirt and make you shiver. However, nothing prepares your body for the reaction it gets as soon as you turn around and see him.

Standing there, perfect silky hair dangling over his eyes and curling up at the nape of his neck. Sparkly round orbits narrowed in a try to protect themselves from the inclement rays of sunshine, and pretty lips forming the sweetest tight-lipped smile you could’ve dreamed to have seen this early in the morning. Your heart skips a bit, and all the sleepiness washes away; all of this before you can even stop yourself from returning the gesture.

Joshua Hong. You met him one of those times when Jeonghan had dragged you to a small gathering with his friends, then finding him at the nearest convenience store you had from your job.

As soon as you saw him, you were instantly smitten. His doe eyes, cute nose, and sweet voice made the air get stuck in your throat. And as if being so incredibly pretty-faced wasn’t enough, there’s the plus of such a warm personality.

What at first started off as simple acquaitances with friends in common, slowly blossomed into a friendship. Joshua was often who spent time with you at parties, whenever Jeonghan was busy either playing alcohol games, or arguing over something random with someone else. He was also who you found at the book store in search of some kind of book so you could learn how to bake cupcakes in your sugar craving nights. He is, also, someone you feel totally comfortable with, someone selfless who never judges anyone. Someone with a view of the world in a positive light, a free spirit that only encourages you to be true to yourself and accept others as they are. 

All the times you’ve felt out of place, or simply aren’t in the mood to do anything at all, there he is to sit with you and listen to all your rants with that sweet smile adorning his face, just as if you were telling him the most interesting of stories.

He’s a music enthusiast. Likes to play guitar and morning walks to clear his mind. Such sunchild like him was able to charm a moonchild like you. So different, but so similar at the same time.

Despite that, the two of you ended up having more things in common than you could’ve expected. None of you like confrontation, and often prefer spontaneity. Both enjoy rainy days, and spending time at home in front of a fireplace when winter arrives. He’s a gentleman, never speaks over anyone and rarely raises his voice. He’s patient, and always makes you walk on the inner side of the sidewalk.

All those little things did nothing but irremediably attract you, feel nothing but admiration towards the way he sees life and empathizes with you or others.

He’s sweet, and fun to be around. With a sweet laugh and authenticity, the way he’s so soft-spoken and the way he never hesitates to offer help with chores, he’s domestic, so down to earth, nothing short of a prince. A good friend, a good listener, and in truth, you could’ve considered him one of your closest friends if it wasn’t for a simple reason… As a best friend, you have Jeonghan for. In his case, you have a big, fat crush on. So, although sharing a lot of time together, you just can’t help the way your heart flutters whenever he’s around. With a friend you share teasing, pranks, messiness… With Joshua, you share peace, comfort.

The already too-long list of traits to make you fall for someone has had his name highlighted for a while, and it seems that he always finds a new way to make you fall even deeper. 

Like that day he sang his favorite song in front of you with his guitar in hand. You knew back then you were done for.

This crush you have on him is something you’ve been harboring, keeping to yourself as a precious secret, cause yeah, he’s your friend, but also if the way you look at him when he’s not even doing anything doesn’t give you away, then maybe everyone else is just oblivious.

Joshua makes his way over to you and your heart races. God, he looks so good and you look like you just rolled off your bed and fell into a puddle.

He smiles again and leans down to pick your suitcase, looking into your eyes as soon as he stands up back straight.

“Good morning. How are you feeling?”

“Morning, Shua. I’m doing good, what about you?” Greet him back, a simple task it should be. But your voice betrays you and comes out in almost a whisper. Since you can't make it obvious, you gnaw at your lower lip in embarrassment. However, Joshua being Joshua, pays no mind.

“I’m great, thank you. Let me help you with this.”

And they say chivalry is dead. Your lips form a smile, following behind him on the way to the van.

“Thank you.” You say softly, stopping behind him as he places your luggage somewhere with the rest of the suitcases.

“My pleasure.”

You flinch when the van parked behind suddenly opens its door, and the next thing you hear is your name being called from the inside. The voices of Soonyoung, Seungkwan, Seokmin, and Chan, who you find waving at you as soon as you turn your head. With a chuckle, you wave back at them, gesturing with your hand for them to stop the noise before someone gets mad right after.

Joshua meets your gaze when you look back, and gestures with his head for you to get in. You smile again because that’s all you can do when he’s around.

Then you hop in the vehicle and Jeonghan waves at you from the last row of seats at the back. Making your way over, you keep the same small smile, noticing the sleeping boys across the other seats before you plop down next to your friend.

The door closes right after Joshua hops back in, and you’re stealing glances at him until the man next to you grabs your face between his fingers and turns your head to look at him. He frowns.

“Any reason in particular why you’re soaking?”

Your brows knit together, and he releases you.

“Just felt like getting refreshed.”

Your best friend snorts, and you shoot him a glare in return.

“You fell asleep in the shower, didn’t you?”

“Shut up.”

He giggles, and you decide to ignore him as the car starts moving, fastening your seatbelt. It doesn't take long until your eyes fly back to the object of your desires.

You don’t know how you’re gonna survive being so close to him.

Three hours into the road trip and you’re sleeping soundly against Jeonghan’s shoulder while he scrolls through his phone. The van comes to a stop, so everyone is able to go to the bathroom or buy more snacks. Some of the boys are gathering outside before Jun approaches Seungcheol and Joshua.

“Hey, do you guys think I could move to your van? My seatbelt isn’t working and I’ve been panicking over every single bump on the road for like three hours, I’m exhausted.”

Seungcheol and Joshua laugh.

“Why would you wait three hours to say anything?” Seungcheol asks, tilting his head in confusion. Jun’s brows furrow together before he says:

“What else was I supposed to do? Stop the van in the middle of nowhere?”

“You could’ve called me and I would’ve asked the driver to pull over to take care of it.” The eldest shrugs, Jun groans.

“Can I go to your van or not?”

Seungcheol looks at Joshua, who shrugs as he sips on his water bottle.

“Sure, I can move to the last row.”

Jun smiles with his thumbs up before they make their way back to the van. Junhui goes to the other vehicle to take his pillow and bring it with him. Joshua, once inside, grabs some of his stuff and walks toward the back of the car. Seeing you asleep as the corners of his mouth curl up in the most subtle smile at the scene, right when Jeonghan looks up at him in question.

“Jun is moving to this van.” He says quietly as if reading the male's mind. Jeonghan nods and goes back to his business.

The slender Junhui finally hops into the van with his stuff, taking Joshua’s previous seat and fastening his seatbelt. The door slides closed and Joshua secures himself as well, tucking his AirPods in his ears and playing his music.

Everything is peaceful for the next thirty or so minutes, Joshua is currently with his hands shoved into the pockets of his coat, head back resting against the headrest as his mind focuses only on the music.

But then, you stir in your sleep and move to lean your head on his shoulder. His body tenses as soon as he feels your sudden proximity, face nuzzling in the crook of his neck and forcing him to gulp. He starts playing with his own fingers, averting his gaze from the window, not really knowing how to react. He waits for you to realize, but soon notices you’re still deeply asleep, so he lets you stay there for the rest of the road.

“Hey, wake up, we arrived,” Jeonghan calls, gently shaking you. “Hey, open your eyes,” He repeats, and you’re finally woken up, sitting straight and rubbing your eyes to help them get used to the light.

Disoriented for a moment, the gears in your brain slowly start to work at their normal speed. You stretch out your now sore limbs as you look at your surroundings. All the boys left their vans except you, Jeonghan trying to wake you up, and Joshua, whom you notice is still seated beside you. You frown, but he smiles.

“Wait, weren’t you sitting in the front row? What did I miss? How long did I sleep?”

He chuckles, charmed by your utter confusion.

“Well, yeah, but Jun moved to this van. You would’ve noticed if you hadn’t been sleeping for four hours,” Jeonghan is the one to respond, grabbing your hands and pulling you up.

“Four hours?!” You exclaim, rubbing your eyes. 

The faintest grunt manages to be hidden from you, and all of you three make your way to exit the van. Jeonghan is the first one to jump out, followed by Joshua. Your vision is still blurry and you’re still clumsy from the grogginess, which doesn’t make the calculation between the van and the floor an easy task.

Joshua notices, so he extends his hand for you to take. You look at it, then at his face. He offers you yet another gentle smile and your stomach flips even in your current state. Still, you smile back and accept his hand, clasping yours around it as he helps you land on your feet without an issue.

You reunite with the rest of the guys soon after, and they’re quick to erase any trace of tiredness as soon as they start being their loud selves, taking turns to hug you or pat your head.

And well, you don’t complain, because it’s nice to have all of them around.

You take a second to look at your surroundings, but the air is way too filled with haze to be able to distinguish anything at all. The cold breeze chills you to the bone and you start to feel the urge to get into to the warmth of the cabin, and as if your prayers had been heard, you spot Seungcheol walking with a few pairs of keys and two girls in their twenties following behind him.

“Okay. So,  we have four cabins at our disposition. In the first one will stay Minghao, Seokmin, Vernon and Jihoon. Junhui, Chan, Seungkwan and Soonyoung in the second one, Jeonghan, Wonwoo and Mingyu in the third, and lastly, the fourth one is for Joshua, myself, and our girl here.” He explains. “They the hosts, Jihye and Jangmi.”

The ground beneath you quakes at the thought of sharing a place with Joshua himself, breath hitching in your throat and mouth going dry. Your eyes nervously travel to the two girls in front of you, as if asking for help. They don't help you, but they also seem very welcoming and kind.

“Hi, I’m Jihye. We live here in a house that’s around the corner, and we’ll gladly be available for anything you may need.” She smiles. “The four cabins are equipped with furniture, fireplaces, kitchens, two bathrooms, and four rooms respectively. Each room has a TV, a heater, a desk, and a closet for you to place all of your items.”

“In the living room you’ll find the fireplace, comfortable couches, and even a sofa bed. In the kitchen, you have a small dining table, a microwave, a refrigerator, and different kinds of utensils for you to use,” The second girl adds. “Here in the common areas, you have some benches, picnic tables, and grillers. We also have wifi and my name is Jangmi, by the way.” She chuckles, and all of you laugh along.”

“Also, the bathrooms have a water heater and a first aid kit inside the cabinets. If you need anything else, please don’t hesitate to reach out and we’ll be happy to help.” Continues Jihye, with a kind smile.

All of you bow in gratitude for their help, right before Soonyoung speaks.

“Are you aware that we’re throwing a party tomorrow night?” He asks in genuine curiosity, Jihye nods.

“Yeah, we’ve been notified and you don’t have to worry about anything. Since we’re in a mountain, there shouldn’t be a problem when it comes to music, for example.”

“Cool!”

“Okay but, I have a question.” You finally speak, feeling everyone’s eyes landing on you. You clear your throat. “Would it be weird if I asked you to join?”

Certainly, you don’t know these girls, but they seem very sweet and it would be awful of you not to, at least, ask them if they’d like to join when they’re so close.

“Oh that’s alright! You don’t have to.” One of them says, waving her hand dismissively.

“But we’d love it if you joined us,” Seokmin says, walking to you and placing his arm around your neck. “It’ll be fun.”

All of them agree, and the girls seem a bit taken aback, you suppose they’ve never been included in anything similar when it comes to tourists. But then, and after a quick glance to one another, they smile.

“If that’s okay with you, we’d love to.”

You smile at them.

“Then it’s settled up.”

Needless to say, you didn’t take long to stop by Jeonghan’s cabin. After taking a much-needed shower and getting diner, you dressed in your coziest pajamas and exited your place to visit your best friend.

And there you are, sprawled across his bed as he sits on the chair in front of the desk.

Staring up at the ceiling fan, you blurt out:

“I was hoping we’d stay at the same cabin.”

“Don’t pretend like you like me that much.” Jeonghan promptly responds. Teasing you as you prop yourself up with your elbows to glare at him. “You have the Hong Jisoo himself in there, what else could you ask for as a birthday gift?”

A faint gasp escapes you, grabbing a pillow and throwing it at him. He laughs out loud.

“Shut the fuck up, would you?” You whisper-shout, crawling to the edge of the bed to get closer. He tries to stop laughing but your distressed expression makes it impossible for him. “I shouldn’t have said anything to you. No one’s supposed to know.”

“Yeah, because no one would ever notice the way you shamelessly keep staring at him.”

“You’re exaggerating.” You groan, smacking his thigh while he continues laughing. “Cut it out, you asshole.”

His laugh slowly dies down, then he catches his breath.

“Anyway… Not the point.” He continues. “He’s going to be in the room across from yours. Would you really want to have me there instead of him?”

There it is. That stupid look with a quirked brow. He really knows you well.

You groan, covering your face with your palms before laying down on your back.

“You’re so fucking annoying”

“I wonder how you’ll react when I tell you that you slept on him for over an hour.”

Eyes flying open, you almost fall off the bed.

“What did you say?! What the fuck? I did not, you always like to see me distressed. You’re fucking with me.” Embarrassment floods inside you, grabbing another pillow to repeatedly hit him with it as a coping mechanism.

Jeonghan once again laughs at your reaction, covering himself with his arms before snatching the pillow away.

“Stop it with the damned pillow.” He groans. “And no, I’m not lying. Though I do love the way you’re losing your shit.”

“How am I supposed to look at him whe-” You trail off, “Wait, did I drool? Snore? Fart?” Jeonghan laughs again. “Stop laughing for fuck’s sake, Yoon Jeonghan. I’m going to bite your head off!”

“God you’re so dramatic.” He chuckles. “Nothing big, he’ll understand if you’re a bit gassy.”

“What?!”

He laughs out loud again.

“I’m just kidding. You didn’t do anything.”

“What kind of best friend are you?”

“The one you chose, sweetheart.” He teases, grabbing your chin with his fingers and winking at you. You roll your eyes, then smack his hand away.

The door opens right after, and Vernon's head pops in.

“Hey, wanna watch a movie with us?”

“Who are ‘us’?” You ask in return.

“Ehh… I don’t know? Kwan, Chan, Hao, Jun, Joshua… Me?” He shrugs. “Most of us.”

Giving it a thought, you end up realizing you don't truly feel like making a fool of yourself any further, so you smile and shake your head.

“I think I’ll pass. I have to unpack and I’m feeling tired.”

“Sure. See you tomorrow then.” Vernon smiles, waving before closing the door.

Jeonghan gives you a suspicious look.

“What?”

“You slept the whole road and you’re tired?”

“Well, yeah… Panicking is exhausting.” You respond, gaining a roll of his eyes in return. “I’ll go to my room and think about my life decisions. I’ll see you guys tomorrow.”  You add, walking towards the door.

“Sure, just know I’ll tell Joshua you didn’t stay because of him.”

You glare back at your best friend. He laughs.

“Make sure I don’t touch your coffee in the morning, Yoon Jeonghan”

You’re snuggled up in the warmth of the designated bed, sleeping peacefully until the door slams open and a bunch of men enter the room singing very loudly a happy birthday.

A groan erupts from your throat against the pillow, lights being turned on before you can even sit up and rub your eyes to adjust to the sudden illuminance. The cheerful idiots continue singing off key on purpose, clapping as Seungcheol walks to you with a cake in his hands, candles already lit and ready for you to blow off.

You can’t help but smile at the sweet gesture, though, running your fingers through your hair in a failed try to look a little less disheveled. Jeonghan jumps onto the opposite end of your bed, kneeling as he also sings and claps. Soonyoung, on the other hand, climbs onto the edge of the mattress just to sing louder and start throwing some improvised confetti. They continue hollering, clapping, and overall being a mess. Then you make a wish, blowing the candles out right after. Lazy smile on your face, clapping along with them.

“Happy birthday!”

“Thank you, guys. If it wasn’t for the gesture, I would’ve murdered all of you for waking me up.” You sarcastically say, accepting the knife Seungcheol hands you and cutting a small piece of cake.

“Aren’t you eating?” Chan asks from behind, you shake your head.

“You guys eat first. I still have to wash up.”

With that, Seokmin takes the cake away from you and exits the room with some of the guys following behind.

“We still have to go grocery shopping for tonight,” Seungcheol says.

“Yeah, I can go with Jeonghan.”

“I’ll go too. Jihye is going to come with us to be a guide,” Cheol adds. “Do you wanna join, Shua?” He asks the man standing next to him, the same one whose presence you hadn’t noticed until now. A sudden wave of embarrassment flows throughout you, considering the way you look, cheeks warming up when he smiles.

“Sure, no problem.”

“Okay then we’ll meet outside in thirty minutes,” Seungcheol adds. Stepping closer, he pats your head lovingly. “Happy birthday, once again.”

You mumble a “Thank you.” at him, eyes briefly glancing over at Joshua, who only gives you another one of his gentle and reassuring smiles before walking out of the room.

Jeonghan is quick to engulf you in a hug, a hand stroking the hair at the back of your head.

“You’re an oldie now.” He mutters against your head. “Can you feel your thirties breathing on your neck yet?"

You roll your eyes and push him away, glaring at him. He chuckles.

“Get out, I have to take a shower.”

“Right, sleeping beauty.” He leaves another caress on your head accompanied by a soft smile, “Don’t forget to brush your teeth, that dragon breath will even scare the demons away.”

Covering your mouth with your hands, your face is soon face filled with distress.

“Jeonghan!”

He laughs loudly, standing up and making his way towards the door.

“Just kidding, see you later.” He shuts the door closed behind him after a very obnoxious wink.

Air fills up your lungs with a deep breath, Jeonghan's comment sobering you up immediately and forcing you to hurry off the bed to get into the bathroom, take a shower and get dressed.

As soon as you’re ready, you grab a scarf from the closet, then your phone to make your way out of the cabin, not before stealing a very much needed piece of cake.

The sunlight greets you when you walk through the door, its usual warmth doing nothing in contrast to the freezing air that collides against the exposed skin of your face. You’re quick to wrap the scarf around your neck, boots dragging across the grassy ground as you pull your phone out to of your pocket to send Jeonghan a message.

A sigh leaves your lips, and you're shoving your phone back into your pocket the moment you find Joshua already standing there, hands in his pockets and fluffy hair shining under the sunlight.

He's craning his neck as soon as he notices your presence, smiling at you.

“Good morning, again.” 

“Nice seeing you again, birthday girl.” He greets you back, stepping closer and patting your head sweetly. His touch is gentle, way more gentle than Jeonghan’s or any others. He’s careful and sweet. Still, you chuckle to not make it weird.

“It's like I'm a like a dog. Everyone’s been patting my head today.”

Joshua chuckles, a small cloud of fog escaping from his lips to remind you of the cold surroundings, even when you seem to have forgotten about it with the heat in your veins.

“I’m sorry, we are really annoying.”

Laughing, you shake your head.

“No, no. It’s okay, I don’t mind.” You assure, wishing you could add how you’re especially fond of his gentle touches. “I know that’s your way of showing affection.” You add. Because that’s what you hope in your head, that somehow, he have affection for you.

“Of course.” A light and melodious chuckle resonates after his response, patting your head once again.

Silly little giggles are the only thing that come from you in result.

Then, he looks behind you. His smile grows and he lifts his hand up to wave. When you turn around, you see what he’s staring at.

Seungcheol and Jihye make their way towards the two of you.

“Ready to leave?” 

“Yeah, we are.” You smile, rubbing your hands together in search of warmth.

“Bonding, aren’t we?” Seungcheol teases, making you smile.

“You could say that.”

You look at Joshua after responding, he chuckles, and your stomach flips.

“Alright then! Follow me, the store is nearby.” Jihye finally speaks, soon having the three of you following her lead.

The walk is quick and chill, something you’re grateful for considering how cold it is outside. When you arrive at the market, you grab a cart and start walking.

“Okay, so, what do we need?” You ask Cheol, who gives it a brief thought.

“Some drinks, snacks, plates, cups? Preferably plastic ones. Also, some trash plastic bags to clean in the morning.”

“Okay, the plasticware is here at the right. The snacks and drinks are on the opposite side, where the refrigerators are." Jihye explains, hands gesturing as she points to the directions.

“Good. I’ll go with Jihye and you can take care of the snacks and drinks.” He says to both Joshua and you. “Pick whatever you want, it’s your birthday.”

“I might take the whole store with me, then.” You joke, and he chuckles.

The four of you part ways, with you and Joshua going together. He takes you by surprise by sneaking one of his hands in between your arms. You look up at him, confused.

“I’ll do it.” He smiles. You accept the offer with a smile and move aside to let him take your place. Your heartbeats increase in speed at the simple act of chivalry, while you're also trying to distract yourself by eyeing up the shelves.

How’s it possible that he hasn't noticed the way his mere presence puts your whole world upside down?

Looking at all the different flavors, sizes, and textures of potato chips, Doritos, and sweets that are displayed, you decide to quietly contemplate the ones you're craving the most. Joshua's soft voice in the distance lets you be aware that he’s gonna go and grab some beers while you make up your mind.

Since you're such an indecisive individual, you start grabbing packs randomly. Salty, spicy chips, some peperos, and even some biscuits for a change. It's now your mission to find those celestial Honey Butter Chips you’d die for, and when you finally spot them, you groan because of fucking course they had to be placed at the top of the shelf and very much impossible for you to reach them.

How cliché is that?

Still, you try, because one can’t let one's pride be wounded, plus, you’re way too introverted to ask for help anyway. Standing on tiptoes with one arm holding the rest of the snacks, you stretch out your free limb and try to, at least, make one of the damned bags fall to the floor. You don't make it, though. The tips of your fingers barely graze against the bag.

“Need some help?”

The man's voice makes you freeze on the spot. Brain malfunctioning as soon as you feel his breath on your neck. His huge hand reaches for the chips, all of this in seemingly slow motion. You stay there, paralyzed and with your eyes glued to him.

Stepping back, he holds the bag of chips in front of him, wiggling it. His lips curl up sweetly.

“I got you.” 

It's automatic, the way you start detailing every single feature of that gorgeous face. The smoothness and melanin of his skin, the roundness of his lips, and the intense but glowing irises of his dark eyes. You don’t think you’ve ever seen anyone this pretty in your life.

He snaps you back into reality once he tilts his head, noticing you’ve been staring for too long. You mentally slap yourself, cheeks red in embarrassment at the possibility of making him uncomfortable. The only solution seems to be clearing your throat and looking away.

“Thanks, Shua.”

“You’re welcome.” He says, hand placing the item inside the cart and starting to move again, “You should’ve asked me, though, I was right there.”

“Sorry, I didn’t want to bother you. I could do it myself.” This is your insecurity speaking, or the first cheap excuse you have now decided to throw. Whatever suits best the situation.

Joshua can only laugh at that, moving his hand to place it on top of your head. You turn your gaze in his direction, like a deer in headlights as he smiles at you, leaning against the handle on his elbow.

“I know you can.” He coos, caressing the top of your head and sending sparks throughout your body. “Just let yourself be pampered today.”

A smile creeps up your face, finding it hard to look away but doing it anyway. The two of you start walking around the store, and somehow it’s like you two are partners in crime. Stealing glances and soft smiles, slightly bumping into each other. You feel it then, the way warmth radiates from him and embraces you. It’s not cold whenever he’s around.

Soon, you cross paths with Seungcheol and Jihye again. Make your way to the cashier and be ready to pay for everything to go back to the cabins.

On your way back, you spot an ice rink. There are just a few people skating at this time of the day. Your eyes light up instantly.

“Woah, I didn’t know there was one of these in here.” You mumble, your three companions standing next to you.

“Oh! That’s a popular spot for families and tourists to have fun. We love to bring our friends sometimes.” It's Jihye's voice that follows, explaining as you smile at the sight of some children having fun in their ice skates.

“I can imagine, it looks so fun.”

You're having a moment with your inner child. There will be time later to get to the point of embarrassment. That, of course, if you don't notice the way Joshua looks at you ever so fondly.

“Wanna skate for a bit?”

Unexpected. That's what Joshua's question is. You're looking back at him, tilting your head.

“I would, but there are things to set for tonight.”

“You don’t need to worry about that,” Seungcheol assures then, smiling at you. “It’s your birthday, we will take care of everything. You can stay here and have fun.”

His words bring an instant grin to your face.

“Really? Should I?”

“Of course! It’s on the house!” 

Oh, sweet Jihye.

“Oh no no, I can pay for it, you don’t have to!”

She shakes her head dismissively.

“That’s alright! The owners are family friends. Take it as a birthday gift.”

How can you not smile at her kindness?

“Thank you.”

“Alright let me grab these,” Cheol speaks, snatching the bags you’ve been holding. “Shua, take care of her and all of that.”

“Of course.”

Joshua looks at you then, a sweet and comforting smile being sent in your direction.

“I’ll see you guys in a while!” Then you say, as you wave at them goodbye.

“Alright, let’s get ready.”

Joshua nods his head for you to follow him, and of course, you do.

You certainly didn’t think this through. All things considered.

It shows the moment you put the skates on. Wobbly legs make their way into the rink. It’s not as easy as you imagined.

“I think this wasn’t a good idea.”

Now you're holding onto the walls for dear life, speaking to yourself, and reconsidering your choices in life. Then, you spot Joshua a few meters away. Skating on the ice as if it were nothing, his hands in his pockets, and the wind blowing his hair.

He then turns around in search of you, taking a few seconds to actually find you. As soon as he does, he laughs at the scene of you in the very corner.

He moves closer to you, and you’re so, so embarrassed you want the damn ice to melt and let you drown in it.

“You okay there?”

You want to let out the loudest whine, but you must act your age this time. You can't possibly make more of a fool of yourself in front of the man you like.

“Just peachy.”

You're clawing onto the brick wall, almost counting the seconds until you’re ass planted on the floor.

Joshua's big hand grabs one of your wrists, and you look at him with panic.

“Come on, let’s help you out.”

“Wait wait, I’ll fall, Joshua!” 

There it is. The whine you desperately wanted to hold made it to the surface. It only makes him laugh even more.

“You’re okay, I won’t let you fall.” A bold statement for someone who clearly doesn't know the great amount of clumsiness encased in such a little body. He continues pulling you away from the wall and holding onto your hands. “Just relax, yeah?”

He starts skating backward slowly. You don't know how he manages to be so relaxed as you cut the circulation from his fingers. But it'll have to do.

“This was such a bad idea, I’m so embarrassed.”

He starts loosening the grip on your hands. Realization hits you instantly, eyes flying open as he distances himself from you.

"Don't you fucking dare, Hong Jisoo! Come back here!"

Chuckle after chuckle. Seems like you're his main source of comedy today.

“You can do it.”

“Joshua Hong, you better come and hold my fucking hands.”

It's a threat, but he doesn't see it as such, even with your gritted teeth. He only looks down at you, clearly amused.

“Come on, you’ll be fine. It's not that bad, is it?"

“Why are you doing this to me? My mistake was thinking you'd be better than Yoon Jeonghan but I was clearly wrong. I swear to god you’ll pay the hospital bills when my bones break, and I hope you feel guilty for the rest of your life, cause how can you do this shit to me, Jisoo. I absolutely despise the sh-”

“Stop ranting and look at yourself.” 

And you do. With a chuckle, you slowly and clumsily move your legs.

“Oh, would you look at that? I’m actually doing it.” You laugh, looking up at him. The fondness in his eyes sends butterflies to your stomach.

He comes closer then, and grabs your hands once again.

“Let’s move a little faster.” 

"Let's fucking not!"

He doesn’t even let you oppose before he’s moving quicker. You want to kill him for a moment, but then you're actually having fun, laughing together, very romantic.

Until you trip.

Thankfully, he’s quick to pull you onto him and wrap an arm around your waist to stop your fall.

Bodies pressing together, your hands placed against his chest, looking into his eyes.

“You okay?” He whispers, so close to your face you can actually see his condensed breath. 

You only nod, and for some reason, the two of you stay like this for a few seconds. Looking at each other, his eyes traveling between your eyes and down to your lips. 

You could swear he’s leaning in, maybe wishful thinking or whatever, but you can almost taste his lips.

But then he clears his throat and helps you stand straight.

“That was close.” He says with a small, nervous laugh. “Sorry if it was too much.”

Yeah, you're being delusional.

“No, it’s okay. It was fun.”

“Uh, well... It’s getting dark.” He continues, looking up at the sky, then looking back at you. “Should we head back?”

“Yeah, sure.”

He makes sure to help you get safely to the exit. It doesn’t take long for the two of you to go back to the cabins, that are sadly way too close to the rink… One hour alone with him wasn’t enough.

When you arrive, it saddens you to think that the special moment you shared with him is now over. Still, you wonder if what happened between you two back in the rink was really your imagination.

Your friends run to you as soon as they notice your arrival. They promise everything’s ready and all you need to do is get dressed and enjoy the party.

With a smile, you go back to your room and start getting ready.

Later at night, everyone is already gathered outside. The boys whistle at you teasingly when you get out of your cabin, gaining a roll of your eyes in response.

“Stop it, you perverts.” 

“Lookin’ like a snack”

That's Soonyoung, now placing an arm around your neck with a proud grin. You quirk a brow, looking up at his face.

“What does that even mean?”

“He means you look hot,” Chan says, butting in.

“Ew,” Joking, you push Soonyoung away. He looks at you confused, so you laugh. “Just kidding.”

“You are a mean woman.” He exclaims in his usual dramatism.

Seokmin then comes and puts his arm around Soonyoung.

“I’ll take him. He’s a bit drunk.” With a wink, he starts pulling Soonyoung away, as he mutters “I’m not drunk!”

Chuckling, your eyes search for Joshua, who’s distracted and enrolled in a conversation with Minghao and Wonwoo. Your smile slightly falters, because somehow, you wish he had complimented you, too.

Chan then walks to you, placing an arm around your shoulder. You look at him in confusion, and he smirks, wiggling his eyebrows.

“So, how does it feel to be a noona?”

You snort.

“I’ve always been a noona to you.”

“You’re right. Didn’t know what to say, sorry.”

With another roll of your eyes, you push him away. The two of you laugh until you spot Jeonghan a moment later, and join him at one of the picnic tables.

Fresh steak is being grilled by Mingyu, music is being played by Vernon, and the rest are either drinking or sitting and having a chat. The two girls arrive not long after, shy at first but soon engaging easily in the conversation. You learn that they study online, Jihye is majoring in arts while Jangmi went into fashion design. Their parents have been renting cabins for years, and they plan to continue doing so when they are gone.

Somewhere in the middle of the conversation, you stand up from the picnic table to go for another beer, teeth clacking due to the freezing air. You get inside and grab an unopened can, switching it open and taking a swig. A grimace appears on your face at the cheap taste before turning around and going back outside.

You had planned to go back to the table, but your plans change when someone tugs at your wrist and stops you. You turn around and almost collide with Minghao’s figure. He grins.

“You look bored. Wanna dance?”

You smile.

“Sure.”

And that’s how it starts to get really fun, with the two of you dancing before at least another five of the boys join to dance along. It goes that way for a good part of the night, and admittedly, you don’t think you’ve had so much fun before.

These men’s antics are way too hilarious, as they keep clowning themselves without a care in the world despite the cold. That's when you decide it's time to go and grab Jihye and Jangmi by the hands, pulling them with you to join and dance, and they do, having fun when they feel comfortable enough.

You even see Joshua dancing along.

All of you dance until your limbs are exhausted, soon forcing you to excuse yourself. You grab another can of beer, this time deciding to take some fresh air on your own. Walking around until you find a nice spot on a little hill a few steps away, a bit quieter. 

You sit on the grass, knees pushed up and arms hugging them to keep yourself warm. You have a nice view of the city illuminated with different colored lights, something unexpected since all you’ve seen so far is haze.

Taking another swig of your drink, you let the cold wind touch your face. Everything is peaceful and quiet at the moment. Except for your mind.

Pulling your phone out of your pocket, you see the time being three in the morning. No wonder you suddenly feel so raw and vulnerable. 

Yearning that someone’s company so much is making your chest feel tight, and perhaps, your feelings aren’t just a simple crush at all.

A check on your social media shows the boys’ posts. There he is, with that beautiful smile of his that could light the whole town. Your heart flutters as you continue looking at his picture for who knows how long. A smile forms on your face, fingers grazing the shape of his face.

Then you hear someone’s footsteps approaching against the grass, eyes meeting with Jihoon’s right after. A subtle smile on his face when he sits right next to you.

“Hey, why aren’t you at your own party?”

You shrug.

“I just wanted to be alone for a while and think.”

Jihoon hums with a smile, looking ahead.

“Sounds dangerous.”

A small giggle leaves your lips. It's silent, only the breeze can be heard as you collect your thoughts.

“Jihoon,”

“Yeah?”

You crane your neck to look at him.

“Why do I always feel like I want to let my feelings out at this hour?

He thinks about it, leaning back against his palms.

“Well, you know what they say. Everyone turns into their most vulnerable self in the middle of the night. It’s often the time when I get the inspiration to compose.”

“I’m starting to understand what it truly means.” You confess with a nod. “It’s like I’m being overwhelmed with emotions, and I just wish I could lift them off my shoulders.”

Jihoon sits up straight and places his hand on yours, giving it a reassuring squeeze that you appreciate.

“If you feel the urge to let them out, maybe they don’t need to stay hidden.”

“But... It could have consequences.”

He retracts his hand and sighs.

“Yeah, but every decision has a result. Anything you do or say might lead to something, you can choose to find out what it is, or keep it bottled up and let it slowly consume you.”

You process his words carefully, smiling afterward.

“No wonder you’re so great at writing songs.”

“Had to find a productive way to let everything out.” He explains with a chuckle. “Wanna head back?”

“Yeah, I’ll reach you in a minute.”

Jihoon nods and stands up, walking back to where his friends are.

Grabbing your phone once again, fingers scroll through your contacts until you find his number and open the conversation.

There. Consider the possibilities. It’s the middle of the night. you know you can’t trust yourself at this hour, but somehow you’d rather get it off your chest now that you're feeling brave.

That’s it. You’ve opened the gates to let your feelings escape. You hope it’s really worth it.

You're still starting to feel the relief of lifting that weight off your shoulders, but also the uncertainty still managing to shoot a sprinkle of insecurity straight to your brain.

Locking your phone and shoving it back into your pocket, you feel nauseous and your heart is heavy. You fucked up. You know you did.

Sighing, you rest your forehead against your forearms. Your eyes flutter shut as you desperately try to stabilize your breathing. The knot in your stomach becomes painful, your throat tight enough to make your airways feel constricted.

Then, it's time to stand up. You’re not really sure how you’re gonna face Joshua, or the rest of the boys, for that matter. Not now that you decided it was a good idea to confess your feelings through a text message.

However, you stop in your tracks the moment you see Joshua. The air is completely knocked out of your lungs as he silently approaches.

Locks of hair subtly blow in the wind, the moonlight makes his skin glow oh, so gracefully, and his pupils are surely putting the stars at shame. His lips are slightly agape, subtle clouds of fog escaping from his mouth, erratic breathing hinting how he must’ve hurried to come and find you.

It's an urge for you to say anything, but your brain can’t even formulate coherent sentences.

“Josh-”

An arm of his wraps around your waist, pulling you against him before his lips are enclosing yours in a kiss, interrupting whatever excuse you were planning on using.

Eyes flutter close instantly, hands clasping around his wrists. The kiss is soft, sweet, and too short for your liking. He barely pulls back, lips still inches away from yours, noses brushing when he says: 

“I do like you.”

Joshua's thumb runs over your lower lip, staring down at you with half-lidded dark eyes. His smile appears right after, bright and contagious, a breathy chuckle falling from his mouth. You smile back, hands moving up to find purchase at the sides of his neck.

“Do you?”

Dumb question, but you can’t help but ask it.

“Yeah.” He promptly responds, pressing another chaste kiss against your mouth. “So much.”

“Lucky me.”

You're now the one who chuckles, wrapping your arms around his neck and pulling him into another kiss.

Nothing could’ve ever prepared you for the way it feels to have his lips on yours. He's unsurprisingly a very skilled kisser. Knowing perfectly well how to move his lips slowly and delicious, the liplock accompanied by soft nips, sucks, and rhythmic movements against the other’s mouth. He tilts his head and pulls you further against his mouth, hands cupping your jaw. Your head spins in pure ecstasy.

The kiss breaks slowly, still in a daze when you detail the way his lips have turned red and swollen. His thumbs gently rub the skin of your cheeks, and it feels like you're about to vomit a whole zoo. He pulls you into his chest, wrapping his arms around your body and embracing you tightly.

You bury your face in his chest and breathe him in. You embrace all of him and his sweet scent, letting your eyes close and humming contently as your fingers curl on the fabric of his coat.

“How are we going to explain this?”

“We don’t need to.” He says, pulling back and looking at you. “Seems everyone knew what was going on, except me.”

That certainly makes you laugh, cause you've been way too obvious all along.

“That’s embarrassing.”

“Tell me about it.” He agrees, placing a kiss on top of your head. “Wanna go back?”

He extends his hand palm up. You look down at it before intertwining your fingers, a smile on your face.

As soon as you arrive, the teasing begins.

“Took you both long enough!”

Seems like you ended up being the center of attention for a very different reason. Your cheeks burn as Joshua releases your hand and grabs your wrist instead, moving you to stand next to him, then placing his arm around your waist.

He's the one who decides to retort first.

“Yeah yeah, drop it already.”

“I was almost going to confess in her name at this point.” Jeonghan jokes, approaching the two of you.

“Still bitter you didn’t tell me shit,” Joshua confesses, your best friend shakes his hand and gives him a quick, brotherly hug.

“I could’ve, but she would’ve whined about it for years.”

A glare shoots in his direction straight from your eyes, smacking his chest, which makes him laugh.

“Who would’ve thought you can actually keep a secret?”

“Don’t test your luck, I still know plenty of things your new boyfriend would love to know.”

Joshua looks at you with a quirked brow, but you’re quick to grab his hand and start pulling him away.

“Anyway who wants to dance?!”

Joshua looks between you and Jeonghan, who's being left behind. He's clearly intrigued by the situation but follows you nonetheless.

You’ll remember to invite Jihoon to grab some food later.

It's way past five when you're in your bed staring at the ceiling. Everyone must be either passed out somewhere or getting ready for bed since the sun will be rising soon.

There’s only one thing on your mind now that you’re back in your room.

You grab your phone and unlock it, looking for the conversation you started a few hours ago. Fingers typing almost on autopilot, hoping he’s still awake.

Excitement fills your body when you place your phone back on the nightstand. It doesn’t take long until you hear a soft knock on the door.

“Come in!”

You soon see his face, his hand running through his slightly messy hair. Wearing a pair of sweats and a tank top that lets you admire his bare, toned biceps. Teeth sinking in your lip in anticipation, no one could ever look this good.

Scooting, you make room for him on your bed, lifting the covers so he can slide in. As soon as he does, you’re both face to face. It's so charming that even in his tired state, he smiles and places a soft kiss on your lips.

Burying your face in his neck and playing with the hairs at the back of his head, he hums, letting you know he appreciates the gesture before his arms wrap around your frame, pulling you even more into his.

“Hmm, you smell nice.” You admit, a breathy chuckle escaping from his mouth and making his chest vibrate against you.

“Thank you, sweetheart.”

The sudden pet name sends a wave of sparks through your body, not to mention the arousal of knowing he’s using a pet name just for you.

“I could get used to you calling me nice things.”

Joshua pulls back to look into your eyes once again, a light smirk now forming on his lips.

“Yeah?”

Big hand lifts and runs its fingers through your hair.

“Yeah.”

The two of you stay quiet for a moment, but his eyes never leave yours. Smile slowly vanishing the more the tension in the room arises. His soft touches start to become bold, with a hand running from your neck to your shoulder, and from your shoulder down your arm.

“Your skin is so warm, so soft.” It's a mumble, barely audible, as his hand moves from your arm to your waist, gently pushing up the hem of your shirt and letting his hand travel through your curves.

His touch makes your skin erupt in goosebumps.

“I like it when you touch me.”

“Hmm. You shouldn’t say that to me.” He whispers, mouth ghosting over yours as his hand travels upwards, finding your ribs. “I don’t think I can hold back.”

“Then don’t.” 

His gaze darkens at your words, glued to yours in the barely illuminated room. Your body is now craving him, yearning for his touch after dreaming about him for so long.

Joshua then makes the next move, propping on his elbow, his upper half hovering over you. 

You look up at him when his hand comes in contact with your cheek. His beauty is immaculate under the moonlight peeking through the windows. There's so much want being shared. The sight of him on you is so alluring it’ll be engraved in your memory for the rest of your life.

The necklace hanging from his neck looks so tempting, makes you want to curl your fingers around it just to pull him in and succumb to your true desires.

“Then remember that you asked for it.” He speaks again. “I’m going to worship every inch of your skin and kiss at every corner the way I want, give you whatever you wish while making you mine.”

“I wouldn’t want it any other way.”

He drags his fingers down your skin, eyes shifting from yours to down your lips.

“Fuck.”

Before anything else can be said, he leans in and kisses you. His kiss once again takes over all your senses. So slow, open-mouthed, and passionate. Your hands fly to the back of his head to tangle in his soft locks, kissing him in a way he could feel how much you’ve wanted to have him.

His thigh spreads your legs to position himself between them more comfortably. His big hands roam down your neck, shoulders, and waist, making sure that his fingers dance along every single inch of your skin, setting it aflame.

You nip at his lip, tugging gently and making him groan. The tip of your tongue teases the area before he lets his own dive into your mouth to press, roll, and play.

Both can feel the arousal pooling in your underwear, the heat and the need are unbearable. You're clenching around nothing, an effect only his kiss has caused. Pathetic, but real.

Joshua's mouth starts traveling from the corner of your lips, to your jaw and down your neck. You bite your lip again, trying not to whimper and melt into a piddle. Tilting your head back to give him more access, the heaviness in your breath is enough to agitate him, and soon you feel the hard tent in his sweatpants pressing against your thigh.

A lift of your hips and a slight grind are enough to make him curse under his breath as his fingers claw onto your waist.

“Fuck.” He grunts before his tongue gently laps at the exposed column of your neck. You scrap at his scalp, tugging on his hair before grinding on him again. His kiss travels upwards, finding your ear and nibbling on the lobe, “You’re gonna be the death of me.” He whispers, voice hoarse and lust-filled.

“Please, Joshua.” You can't help but beg, beg for him to give you more, pressing yourself against him as much as possible. “I need you.”

“I got you, baby. Let’s take your clothes off, yeah?”

He pulls back and slides his fingers under your shirt, lifting it and pulling it over your head before throwing it somewhere in the room.

His eyes get even more hooded at the sight of your bare breasts, pupils dilating as his hands start running down your bare torso, slowly, smoothly, the touch burning your skin. His palms enclose your chest, kneading gently, his thumbs run over the perked nipples, rolling them between his digits. You moan at the action, hands clasping around his biceps and nails clawing on his skin. He bites his lip as he watches every reaction of yours, finally lowering his head to wrap his lips around one of your nipples.

A whimper falls from your mouth the moment his tongue starts playing with your sensitive buds. He looks up, not wanting to miss any expression of yours as he continues to suck, lick, and suck again.

“Fuck, Shua, that feels so good.”

He hums, moving to the neglected breast and repeating the process. His free hand runs down your stomach, sliding under the waistband of your panties. Long middle finger soon sliding between your folds, pressing on the wet button and making you choke on a moan.

“So wet. I’ve barely touched you, baby.” He teases, pulling away from your nipple and smirking at you. His fingers start rubbing up and down, face hovering over yours, staring intently. He pushes two of his fingers into your hole, and your back arches against his chest.

His lips keep that smirk on, nodding at you while you moan. “That’s it. Feels good, yeah?”

You bite your lip and manage to nod.

Joshua starts pumping his fingers faster, moving his body from over you to get rid of your pants and your panties by dragging them down your legs. All of this without stopping with his ministrations.

There you are, in all your naked glory in front of him, so exposed and vulnerable, but not feeling scared because the way he looks at you is enough to make you feel so wanted.

“So pretty, all for me.” He leans down and grazes his lips against the skin of your tummy. Curling up his fingers, he grazes the perfect spot that makes you moan even louder. Eyes fixated on you with a quirked brow, followed by a breathy laugh. “If you keep being so loud, everyone’s gonna know how good you are at taking fingers, huh?”

You're really trying here, but you can't keep quiet. His teasing words only turn you on even more and make you clench around his digits, feeling your climax approaching at a rapid speed.

“Sorry.” You croak. “It feels so good.”

“I can tell, you’re clenching tightly. How are you going to take my cock?”

He seems to love teasing, as he places kisses on your thighs. Who would've thought? He's apparently not the same gentleman in bed, and you love it.

“I can do it. I will do it.”

Joshua stares at you with both pride and amusement. It’s almost enough to hide the fact that his dick is hard as a rock, but since he’s not trying to hide it, you promptly watch as his free hand moves to palm himself over his clothes.

“Then come for me, so we can make it happen.”

You should probably be more obedient, but you're so desperate you move your hands to the hem of his shirt to lift it up slightly and he quickly takes it off with a chuckle. The sight is hypnotizing, muscles divinely built for your hands to touch, smooth skin screaming to be kissed, and your mouth is watering.

Extending your hand, you run it over his torso, fingers dancing across his abs and chest as he sits on his ankles. The tight knot on your stomach soon releases with the sight of the naked man in front of you, and you reach your climax with chants of his name. Your back arching, legs shaking.

“That’s it. Such a good girl.” He praises, helping you ride out of your peak.

While you try to catch your breath, he pulls his fingers out of you and brings them to his lips to lick them clean. You almost whimper again, 'cause how can someone like him, so sweet and gentlemanly, be so dirty and hot.

Your hands fly to the back of his neck and pull him into a heated kiss, tasting yourself on his tongue. Your hands run down the soft skin of his back.

He breaks the kiss to look at you, panting, clearly way too aroused to keep holding back, so he pulls back and gets rid of his pants and boxers. There you see him, standing free and hard, pink at the head and leaking with arousal. You can’t hold back the wish to touch him, hand flying to wrap around his shaft to pump his length.

He lets out the prettiest moan you could’ve heard, which impulses you to apply more pressure on his shaft. Sitting up, your lips wrap around the head of his cock, gentle sucks and twirls of your tongue sending him into a frenzy. You tug up and down, pointed tongue running over the leaking slit, the salty precum filling your tastebuds.

Joshua looks down at you, ragged breath as he places his gentle hand on the back of your head. You lick a stripe of his length from the base to the head, looking up at him and pressing your thighs together in search of some relief when you witness the blissful expression on his face. Pushing his length further down your throat, you almost choke in hopes to hear more of his luscious sounds.

He's quick to pull you away from him, and you frown. He kisses your lips, licking on your tongue and making you moan against his mouth before he pulls back.

"Love that you're so eager to suck my cock, baby, but if I let you continue, I won't last."

What a filthy fucking mouth he has.

“Fuck, Shua. Please baby, please take me already.”

Joshua bites his already swollen lip, moving your hand away from his length to wrap it in his own and place it at your entrance.

“You ready?”

He starts slowly pushing himself into you as soon as you nod. The tightness of your clamping walls makes him choke a moan of his own, as he waits for you to adjust to his size. You take advantage of the moment to start placing open-mouthed kisses on his neck and shoulder. 

Soon he starts to move his hips, making your head spin with the rhythm of his thrusts. You cling onto his body, wrapping your legs around his waist to press him further into you as soon as he bottoms out. Joshua supports his body with one of his arms beside your head, the free one holding onto your waist as his pace starts quickening.

“Shit, so tight.” He moans, snapping his hips against yours and hitting all the right spots. Truthfully, you could cream again by just hearing the sounds he's making. “You were made for me, to take my cock.” He adds, jaw tightening as he moves his hand to interlace his fingers with yours.

“So good, so big.” You cry out. “I’ve belonged to you since the day I saw you.”

He's leaning down after a breathy curse, kissing you again, a bit sloppier, tongues playing as his hips continue speeding up.

You hope in the back of your mind that no one can hear the sounds of skin slapping against skin, however, you’re far too gone to really care.

“If I had known sooner…” He grunts, hand sliding down to find your clit to rub on it with the pads of his fingers. You scratch his back as he continues. “All this time pining over you but thinking you were not really interested.” He confesses, a particular thrust of his hips making you cry out again. “I deserve all the teasing.”

“Fuck, Joshua, I’m so close.” It's a whole trail of whimpers and moans that you let out between each sentence, pressing his sweaty body against yours. “Been harboring these feelings for so long, Joshua, fuck.”

You’re soon grabbed by the waist and flipped over to straddle him. His head against the headrest and hands on your hips. 

“Ride me like that. Shit.” He orders in between moans, biting his lip as his hand roams up and down your back. “I wanna be in so deep.”

You roll your hips, bouncing every now and then as your hands find leverage on his strong and broad shoulders.

"Oh my fucking God.”

“Cum baby, and milk me dry. Show me how much you mean it.” He demands through gritted teeth, rubbing again on your clit. “How much you’ve wanted me all this time.”

And as if it was a magic spell, you come undone around him, legs shaking and back arching. You bite your lip so hard it draws blood, but you don’t care. 

Your walls clench around him hard enough for him to cum right after you with a throaty groan. His hot seed spills inside you in thick spurts, painting your walls white. A few more sloppy thrusts and you’re soon collapsing onto his clammy chest. His heart is racing, but so is yours.

Joshua's strong arms wrap around you, soft caresses on your back as you remain connected for a while.

When the two of you manage to regain your composure, he pulls out of you and helps you lay on your back, turning around to look into your eyes. He looks at you silently, full of adoration at your flushed face.

"What is it?"

He shakes his head, smile remaining on his face.

"Just admiring."

A light snort escapes from you, not an offensive one, and he knows. He's well aware of your shyness, of the pink on your cheeks.

"Admiring? Me?" You chuckle, but admittedly flattered. "Have you seen yourself?"

His perfectly shaped brow quirks at that, before he quickly glances down at himself.

"Yes. You. Actually, I see myself every day in the mirror."

Clicking your tongue, you turn to your side, meeting his gaze.

"I mean..." You trail off. "I know to you it's nothing, but like, you're so so good looking. Like, incredibly so. And I'm not saying this because you're now my boyfriend or because I'm biased, I just genuinely think that if there was a human form for perfection, it'll look like-"

"I love you."

You stop ranting, looking up at him. He's just smiling, and you don't think someone has ever looked at you this way. With so much love.

"What?"

He chuckles, big hands moving to cup your cheeks.

"I said I love you."

You could cry. You think you might, and perhaps, you're actually tearing up, but it's well hidden by the grin on your face, same grin he starts kissing right after.

"I love you, too." You finally say in between kisses.

Once the kiss breaks, It's hard for you to keep your eyes open, but you try your best to look at his post-climax glory.

“That was intense, by the way. And the four letter word at the end? The cherry on top.”

Joshua smiles, tongue darting out to wet his lips.

“Just wait until we wake up in a couple of hours.”

Cheeks heating up instantly, you start laughing.

He leans down and kisses you one more time, much more slowly, then pulls back, placing a small peck on your forehead, then standing up from the bed.

You watch as he puts his sweats and boxers back on. Wrapping the sheets around your body as he goes to the bathroom and comes back with a towel. He doesn’t need to turn the lights on, considering that the sun is already up. He smiles at you and gently cleans you up, sharing a few kisses before he helps you dress again. A protest is what he receives, too tired to move, however, he just chuckles.

“Come on, love. It’s freezing cold. Let me dress you up so we can sleep, yeah?”

With a groan, you end up sitting up and letting him help you. Soon after that, you’re both falling asleep together on your bed.

“Okay, this was definitely a memorable experience.” Seokmin says, as everyone gets the luggage into the vans.

“It was fun!” Soonyoung agrees, placing his arm around Vernon’s shoulder.

“Well, except for Joshua hyung giving it to our favorite girl til early in the fucking morning.”

You smack Seungkwan across the head and he rubs the sore spot.

“Shut the fuck up. You heard nothing.”

“At least someone was getting laid,” Mingyu adds.

“Are we ready to leave? I really don’t feel like discussing someone’s sexual escapades this early in the morning.”

Of course, it'll be the dad of the group cutting the shit out.

You bid the two girls goodbye, promising to keep in contact and visit soon. thanking them for everything they did.

When everyone’s already inside their vans, you wave at the girls and go back to your seat. Fastening your seatbelt, you look at Jeonghan, who looks back at you with a smirk.

When he least expects it, you place a smooch on his cheek.

Taken aback, his hand moves to touch the place where the kiss landed.

“What was that for?”

You just shrug. “You’re my best friend and I love you.”

Jeonghan can only roll his eyes.

“I was going to tease you for getting some, but that was actually sweet.”

You respond with a chuckle, grabbing his hand and interlacing your fingers together.

“Of course you would, bestie.”

You soon meet eyes with Joshua, who smiles before grabbing your other hand and interlacing your fingers, bringing it to his lips and kissing on the back of it. 

Then, Jeonghan suddenly grabs your face and places a loud smooch on your cheek, making you gasp and laugh out loud, disbelief written on your face.

“Just to remind Joshua he has to share. Don’t expect this gesture to happen very often, though.”

You laugh and rest your head on your boyfriend’s shoulder, still holding both of your favorite boys’ hands.

[cupidford]

Blue Plaques by JRow

Johnlock Love Letters #2324

John’s engagement is off, and he is back at the place he feels most at home — 221B Baker Street. In the process of solving a mystery, will John accidentally reveal a secret of his own? Asexual Sherlock.

[helloliriels]

HELLOLIRIELS WRAPPED 2024

🎁 36 VIEWS OF LONDON :: a FTH gift for @thegildedbee

A patchwork image of John & Sherlock’s London, as seen through their eyes. This is Plot Without Plot (which I'm told is 'the good stuff'). 😎😋📸 Meant to be taken in bite-size chunks. It is a fully finished fic. I hope you enjoy!

💝 PRETTY in (a Frankly Alarming Shade of) PINK &

🎁 NEVER TRUST TO GENERAL IMPRESSIONS [COVER ART] :: two FTH gifts for @thetimemoves

a.k.a. Never Judge A Book By Its Cover (unless its cover is smexy) 😉 my second FTH gift for their gorgeous fic of the same title!!

💌 THE REMEMBER ME MAN by helloliriels - (WIP) a continuation of Remember Me {Though Poppies Grow series} ongoing series

🎄 CHOOSE YOUR OWN JUMPER :: (WIP) Experiment at Baskerville. A new fanfic adventure awaits in this holiday special!

🐝 God Save the Queen :: Sussex & bees never looked so dangerous

🐝 Protect the Hive :: A beekeeper has two rules ...

🐝 You've Disturbed a Beekeeper ... :: There’s nothing that I or anyone else can do to stop it now …

💎 Liri's Treasure Chest :: Hoarding treasure from WoW like a dragon, and decided to start making art of my favourite pieces.

✍️ Better Luck Next Time :: (WIP) Mike had meant it in a kindly way ... but John was in no mood for platitudes.

🏆 New Achievement Unlocked! :: a series of bloggable cheevos.

🎭 MAY IS FOR LIMERICKS :: 20+ limericks full of johnlocked angst. Welcome to limerick hell. Inspired by Calaisreno's may prompts!

Found Fandom (Found Family)

Cardiac Arrest

Pining Idiots

Fitting In

Buried Deep

Open Carefully

Awkward

Operation Wedding

Lurid Ringtone

I (May) Have Miscalculated

Made You Look

Weather Together

Smooth Move

(That's Why He Stays)

Five Minutes

Dammit Sherlock

One Last Dance (Inamorato)

Idiot (Affectionate)

Red Pants (I Imagine They Sparkle)

Examine Me

The Dying Detective

C A L A I S R E N O

Forgiven?

✍️ One More Time (With Feeling) for @totallysilvergirl :: Sherlock gets help from another Doctor. A chance to change his answer and maybe even change his future?

✍️ Warm Open :: Siri ... play 'The Game is On' ...

✍️ Open Your Eyes :: FFF#249

🏆 HELLO AWARD SEASON 2024 :: Hey, if Oscar can do it ... we're gonna have a Wilde time!!!

🏆And the award goes to ... Arwamachine

🏆And the award goes to ... Salambo06

🏆And the award goes to ... Ceruleanmindpalace

Where do🏆awards come from?

🏆And the award goes to ... Silvergirl

🏆And the award goes to ... Barachiki

Where do 💧 awards come from?

🏆And the award goes to ... Chrys

🏆And the award goes to ... Floccinaucinihilipilificationa

When You're In 🌍 Fandom Spaces

📜 One Thousand and One (Words on the Tip of My Tongue) :: a poem. John is processing his grief.

✍️ A Johnlocker Walks into Heaven :: insane wish fulfillment

🎭 S4 Goes Wrong! :: The Goes Wrong Show takes over BBC's Sherlock for the 4th season with disastrous results!

Celebrating 167 Works & 375,000 words on AO3! 🎉

2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | HELLO POETRY | HELLO PODFICS

@johnlocky @chinike @rhasima @fluffbyday-smutbynight @totallysilvergirl @friday411 @ghostofnuggetspast @calaisreno @sarahthecoat @khorazir @iwlyanmw @raina-at @chriscalledmesweetie @7-percent @safedistancefrombeingsmart @kettykika78 @aquilea-of-the-lonely-mountain @whatnext2020 @londonlock @lisbeth-kk @meetinginsamarra @a-victorian-girl @naefelldaurk @impalaparkedat221b @dragonnan @loki-lock @gaylilsherlock @inevitably-johnlocked @elwinglyre @jobooksncoffee @amyreadsandstresses @jawnn-watson @holmesianlove @sgam76 @janetm74 @ninasnakie @peanitbear @safedistancefrombeingsmart @discordantwords @bluebellofbakerstreet @john-smiths-jawline @topsyturvy-turtely @gregorovitch-adler @lololollywrites @solarmama-plantsareneat @blogstandbygo @justanobsessedpan

[meetinginsamarra]

Fanfics I Really Liked in November 2024

So. Since I keep a list of what I´ve read anyway (there´s always a list), I will rec all the fics I´ve wholly enjoyed on a monthly basis. Old and new, canon or AU, big or small authors, long or short but nearly always Johnlock (-ish).

++++

Sine Nomine by SilentAuror @silentauroriamthereal

As Mycroft reviews the footage from Culverton Smith's morgue, he revisits his original question: whether John Watson would be the making of his brother, or make him worse than ever. He's come to a conclusion, but decides to give John one last chance. So he gives him a choice.

A suspenseful S4 fix-it with a fearsome Mycroft, John's redemption arc and some surprises. Happy ending, of course!

Shallow Grave by SilentAuror @silentauroriamthereal

Starts as Sherlock's plane is taking off at the end of His Last Vow. When he finds out that Moriarty is alive and that he's being recalled from his mission, Sherlock decides that he should have told John how he felt before he left. So he walks off the plane and kisses him.

HLV fix-it with lots of pining and misunderstandings and a happy ending!

My, She Was Yar by blueink3

YAR: adjective (nautical term, of a sailboat) agile, quick, easily manoeuvred

Or, the exact opposite of what Sherlock Holmes is when he stumbles into John Watson's cinema and turns his life upside down.

Lovely different first meeting with a bit of hurt/comfort!

The Skin Over My Heart by standbygo @blogstandbygo

Sherlock and John are still trying to adjust to Sherlock's return from his hiatus when John's friend Bill Murray brings them a case. Someone is targeting the LGBTQA+ members of Bill's unit. John and Sherlock go undercover at the unit, but when they end up having to flirt to flush out the suspect, Sherlock realizes he's in over his head.

Fake boyfriends for a case is always a good start for friends to lovers. LOL

Whispers of Highgate by standbygo @blogstandbygo

During his hiatus, Sherlock is chased into the Paris Catacombs, with unexpected consequences.

A little bit of spookyness and a twist at the end!

Christmas Lights by emma221b

It's tough being homeless, especially at Christmas. When Sherlock finds himself cold and alone on the streets of London, he can see no way back. What he needs now is one more miracle, and he might just be about to find it - even if it's not the one that he thinks that he wants.

I love this young Sherlock and the tragic backstory that made him go homeless. Mycroft is a good big brother. Hurt/comfort.