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mysmashplaythroughs · 1 year ago

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Pokemon Gen 1 Semi-Playthrough (Part 1)

Overview.

So this post is going to be different from my usual layout for the site, the reason is because I felt given just how many Pokemon there are and how they make up almost their own category when it comes to items, it’d be best to do a big post going over each generation. The reason I’ve skipped ahead to now when it comes to this rather than carrying on with the Fighter posts is because with the upcoming shutdown of the Wii U and 3DS online I wanted to make sure I got all the Pokemon I need sorted out in advance, there’s no other series that will particularly suffer from the shutdown on my list so I felt it was best to get this one done now. I would like to preface this thing by saying I am a casual Pokemon fan, I’ve never been into the competitive scene although I’m more aware of things like EV training etc than I was in the past, but I am just going over my opinions in this and various memories I have of each Pokemon etc, this isn’t a walkthrough or guide of any kind. This post has ended up being a lot longer than I expected and for Gen 1 specifically I realise it will have the largest amount of Pokemon, so due to this I will be splitting this post into multiple parts as mentioned in the title.

For what Pokemon will appear in these posts, it will be a mixture of every Pokemon to get represented in the Smash Bros series except the Fighters who will continue to get their own posts when I reach them. (This goes for cases where a Pokeball Pokemon became a fighter later in the series also.) In this post there will be Pokemon who appear from the Pokeball Item in various entries in the series, Pokemon who physically appear in the background of stages, Pokemon who are represented by Spirits, Pokemon who are represented by Trophies and even Pokemon who only appeared in the intro movie for Super Smash Bros Melee or as a background in Pokefloats. I’ve drawn the line finally at Pokemon who are simply mentioned, when looking through Trophy descriptions throughout the series many Pokemon will get evolutions mentioned such as Totodile’s Trophy mentioning Croconaw. I have gotten screenshots of every Pokemon I have ingame, but for pictures from Smash Bros I haven't managed to get pictures of every Pokemon ingame yet. When it comes to certain ones (for example ones from Smash 64) I am going to see if later I can either get a screenshot somehow (Smash 64 on Switch would be handy...) or if not look into getting the original sprites just to have an image of some kind. I credit the sources of the images as usual at the end of this post.

I have two things I have attempted to do with this, the first is to make the Pokemon as close to their Smash Bros appearances as possible, which means teaching them moves used in Smash, catching them in regular Pokeballs (with the occasional Masterball) and making sure they have the same appearance. The second is because of the feature in Pokemon Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon to take photos of Pokemon with unique backgrounds depending on the region they’re from, I’ve attempted to catch every Pokemon in its native region. This took a very long time and I was not entirely successful. At the time of writing this, I am still trying to get the final 6 Pokemon I’m missing with friends help and I’ve been doing this since October 2023 now. I won’t talk about the games themselves too much in these posts as I want to save them for my Fighter posts or later stage posts etc, however I will go over my thoughts and experience catching each Pokemon in their entries below. I will admit, there’s a few times I struggled to find stuff to say so I don’t know how entertaining this will all be, still it’s something I wanted to do so yeah, hope you enjoy. One final note, when it comes to a Pokemon’s “Role in Smash Bros” I am only mentioning things I have taken into account in what moves I’ve given them etc, so for example if a Pokeball Pokemon appeared as a trophy but it didn’t really add anything new I’ll just stick to its role being ‘Pokeball Pokemon’ whereas if the trophy description added a new move or something I’ll mention Trophy as part of it, same as for Spirit Battles.

Pokemon 1st Generation.

Pokemon: Blastoise.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Background Pokemon, Trophy (Mega Blastoise)

Moves: Hydro Pump.

My feelings on it: So to start off is the final evolution of Squirtle, one of the three starters of Kanto and a Pokemon who would become a fighter itself later in the Smash series. The Squirtle line as a whole is probably my second favourite of the three, although I haven’t used it as often in playthroughs as the other two. Despite my like for it I find it hard to really say much more on it. I suppose one thing that comes to mind with it was when I was young, me and my cousins each were lucky enough when the cardgame was big to get a shiny card of each starter and one of my cousins got Blastoise. Despite it not being my one I feel like I remember how Blastoise’s card looked the clearest from memory compared to the other two. Beyond that, I was glad it became playable in Pokken Tournament, but now I’m really grasping for things to say I guess.

How I caught it: So no exciting story here, simply put I used my Virtual Console version of Pokemon Blue, picked Squirtle and got to Viridian City at a point where I could put it in the PC and then used Pokemon Bank to transfer it before starting a new game. In Ultra Moon after transferring the Squirtle I grinded a bit to evolve it and made sure to teach it the moves I needed. Since this is the very first Pokemon entry I’ve written and other starters will use the same method, I won’t keep repeating about using Pokemon Bank and I’ll only detail things I did in Ultra Moon if they were notable like evolving them.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: So, for Blastoise despite its long history in the Smash Bros series, there was only one move I needed to teach it which was Hydro Pump, the same move it used in its appearance as a Pokeball Pokemon in Super Smash Bros and Melee. Starters are always in regular Pokeballs so that was fairly simple to keep it with the standard red Pokeball to match Smash Bros. The only element currently missing with my Blastoise is giving it Blastoisinite due to it having a Mega Evolution as a trophy. I will eventually get the Mega stones for the Pokemon I need it for, but they require a fair bit of BP so I thought it best to leave that for later, I believe I will do a post later down the line going over Mega evolutions for the Pokemon that have had them in the Smash series rather than show them here.

Pokemon: Clefairy.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon.

Moves: Metronome, Sing.

My feelings on it: So I have a fair bit of history when it comes to Clefairy. The biggest thing relating to it is that I had an incident when I was younger regarding a Clefairy card where I was really happy to have gotten one. I was going on to my Mum about it and how rare it was etc and then sometime later at school I traded it with this older kid for a load of other cards. I can’t remember how I really felt about the trade but my Mum asked me later where it had gone and I told her I traded it for a load of them. I remember she thought it was silly for me to have given away something I’d been going on about being such a big deal and told me I should ask the kid to trade back for it. I went and asked him to do so which he refused so then I dumbly told him that my Mum had told me to do so which got him and his friends all to laugh and me calling me a Mummy’s boy etc. I don’t really remember clearly now what happened, if he ended up trading it back or it was the other thing that happened that caused it, which was eventually I ended up in a fight with him. The part of me that wants to sound sympathetic makes me think it was because since then him and his group would always point and laugh calling me Mummy’s boy whenever they saw me that made me end up getting into a fight with him whereas the less sympathetic more realist part of me says it was more likely I got into a fight after not much prodding from him over him not trading it back, it’s too long ago to really remember for sure now and it was a fairly miserable part of my life anyway where I ended up in a lot of fights and (to me) being bullied a lot back then. Either way I remember the ‘head of bullying’ at the school had us talk it over or something and maybe it was as a result of that he ended up having to trade the card back to me. It’s not a great memory either way but it’s definitely the biggest thing I associate Clefairy with now so I figured it was worth going over.

Anyway, regarding Clefairy itself, it’s a Pokemon I still like regardless of that memory. Somehow years later I lost that card, it might be hidden away somewhere in a cupboard of mine but it’s not with all the other old cards I had, I do have a Clefable one from a little after that so there’s that at least. In the games I’ve used Clefairy a few times, although I don’t think I’ve had it on my team since it became a Fairy type. One thing I always find interesting with it is it’s a Pokemon I know is rare but I feel like almost everytime I replay Kanto games I’ll end up running into one just during a regular journey through Mount Moon. I always think of it as Jigglypuff’s rival thanks to the anime episodes and of the two it’s definitely my favourite.

How I caught it: As I hinted at above, once again this time I found Clefairy simply during my trip through Mt Moon in Pokemon Yellow. I managed to catch it fairly easily in a Pokeball, I think thanks to Pikachu paralyzing it.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: The most obvious things to do when it came to Clefairy’s appearance in Smash Bros, besides catching it in a regular Pokeball was it learning Metronome. Another less obvious addition however and something I also have taken into account with Pokemon I’ve got for my list is any additional factors from spirit battles involving them. Blastoise’s spirit battle didn’t really give it any additional factors which is why I didn’t mention that one, but for Clefairy it’s represented by Jigglypuff in Magicant. Due to this I felt it was also fitting for my Clefairy to know Sing as well in reference to the Spirit Battle.

Pokemon: Hitmonlee.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon.

Moves: Jump Kick.

My feelings on it: Honestly, when it comes to Hitmonlee, it’s one of those Pokemon I don’t think much about but the more I look at it now the more I think how odd it looks. Obviously it’s whole thing is kicking so the legs are the main thing that sticks out about it, but that very basic design the rest of it has helps make it feel a lot closer to a ‘Monster’ than a lot of the other more humanoid designs in the series. I will say I always liked how Tyrogue’s addition in Gen 2 linked it and Hitmonchan, to the best of my knowledge this was the only time in the series two Pokemon that weren’t connected became so due to a later addition, as well as adding a third form with Hitmontop. Since Hitmonlee is the only one featured in Smash Bros I figured this’d be the best place to really say anything about them, either way that’s all I can really think of for Hitmonlee, it’s an interesting Pokemon.

How I caught it: Since Hitmonlee’s in Smash Bros but Hitmonchan’s never been represented, when it came to the choice after defeating the Fighting Dojo in Saffron City of which of the two to choose it was a pretty obvious answer.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: Ok, so this is the first time this has happened and I hope the last, when writing this post I actually realised that I’d been wrong in the notes I made. I had Hitmonlee’s move it uses in its appearance in Super Smash Bros (64) as Hi Jump Kick. I had no idea ‘Jump Kick’ was a whole separate move and explicitly the one used in Smash Bros. It seems it’s slightly more accurate than Hi Jump Kick but not as powerful. As soon as I realised this I just used one of my many spare heart scales to teach my Hitmonlee it. Beyond this that’s pretty much it with its Spirit Battle not really having any attribute I feel I need to represent, still I’m hoping this will be the last time I’ve made a mistake like this.

Pokemon: Onix.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon.

Moves: Rock Throw.

My feelings on it: I think my feeling regarding Onix is similar to a lot of peoples in that for such a huge Pokemon it tends to feel very underwhelming. Under Brock’s command and depending on your team it definitely helps feel like the first real roadblock you meet in the game due to its defence and its resistances (not to mention in Pokemon Yellow Brock’s Onix having one of the most irritating moves of Gen 1 being Bind) It soon however becomes a very common Pokemon to see being used by other trainers and with its 4x weakness to Water and Grass honestly becomes a somewhat welcome sight for easy exp. It’s a shame as I really like its design and if Pokemon were actually real it’s one I’d probably love to have, but as one of the 151 in the game it’s just not worth training to me.

How I caught it: I came across it during my journey through Rock Tunnel, it wasn’t particularly difficult as it’s a fairly common Pokemon in there.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: I was worried for a moment right after the last entry I’d just run into the exact same problem as for some reason I have on my notes that it uses Rock Slide in its appearance in Super Smash Bros. The actual move as it turns out is Rock Throw, however in this case that’s not an issue as I had the Onix I caught able to use both so there was no addition I needed to make. Since it’s a Pokeball Pokemon once again I used a regular Pokeball to catch it.

Pokemon: Starmie.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon

Moves: Swift.

My feelings on it: I’ve always loved this Pokemon, it’s one that’s so simple but still manages to feel cool to me, especially with its Psychic typing that helped differentiate it from other water Pokemon. Honestly to this day it’s still one of my favourite water types despite the many additions there have been over the years and I feel like it’s a Pokemon that’s managed to stand the test of time. I think when it comes to Starmie specifically, since I’m sure it appeared in Smash due to the anime it was a fairly odd case being an evolved form of a Pokemon one of the main protagonists also had, with Misty having both it and Staryu. Since Staryu was the Pokemon Misty used more often however Starmie didn’t get many appearances which is a shame, especially as in the actual games Starmie often was a fairly tough Pokemon in her gym battle.

How I caught it: It’s hard for me to remember really especially which was which so I’ll just say the same for Starmie as I will for Staryu, I fished them both up with a Super Rod, I believe doing so around the Seafoam Islands where they were a higher level. I believe also with Starmie specifically I evolved it in Pokemon Yellow before transferring it through Bank as I couldn’t remember how easy it was to get a Water Stone in Ultra Moon and didn’t want to make more work for myself later if it wasn’t needed, although I later realised, I’d made an error with this.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: I thought this would be a fairly simple case, I caught it in a Pokeball, evolved it from Staryu to Starmie in Pokemon Yellow and transferred it, my mistake however was forgetting it wouldn’t learn Swift as a Starmie, luckily this was fairly easily remedied with a heart scale which would pay for the move reminder to help Starmie learn Swift, it’s attack in Smash Bros. Since 64 was the only appearance Starmie specifically made in the series there wasn’t anything else really needed.

Pokemon: Koffing.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Enemy in Smash Run, Event in Smash Run.

Moves: Smog, Poison Gas and Smokescreen.

My feelings on it: I love Koffing, firstly I’ve come to appreciate poison types more as the years have gone on but secondly it’s just such an odd interesting to design to me, it’s just a ball but all those er, funnels or craters or whatever you call them makes it look a bit more interesting. Add to that how cheerful it always seems and it helps make it one of my favourites. Despite this however, if anything it’s one of those cases where I don’t appreciate it being in the anime as much, mostly as due to it being James most famous Pokemon (even if it wasn’t with him for most of the anime’s run) it’s one of those that’s always associated with villains which is a shame, something I’ll get to with a couple of other Pokemon down the line. Still I suppose it’s thanks to the anime it appeared in Smash and is on my list so for that part I am thankful. The final thing I always think of with Koffing is one of my favourite real-life collectables, reversible Pokemon plushes. I’m not someone who has ever collected plushes really, however I was a huge fan of these reversible Pokemon plushes they used to do where you could unzip the Pokemon and turn it inside out to become a Pokeball plush. I have collected a few over the years and Koffing being a ball already is probably one of my favourites just because it’s so easy to reverse (unlike a couple of others that can be a pain) and doesn’t look as misshapen as some of the others tend to. I realise this is an odd thing to bring up but really Koffing’s the one that makes me always remember them the most.

How I caught it: This is the first Pokemon I’ve gone over in this post so far that was an absolute pain to find, the main reason for this being (and another reason I’m not that happy about it’s role in the anime) due to it being a prominent member of Team Rocket’s team, it wasn’t available in Pokemon Yellow, which I’d forgotten when playing so I spent ages looking for it in the Pokemon Mansion just to realise after looking it up it wasn’t in Yellow at all (just like the rest of Team Rocket’s Pokemon) Luckily I had a virtual console copy of Pokemon Blue also that I was at the end of the game on, so I was able to track down Koffing in that, but with that it still was a pain to find with its 5% appearance rate, especially as I needed to catch two so I could get Weezing as well (who I’ll detail later in this post). I did eventually catch both and I was done with Pokemon Mansion… at least I thought so until I realised a terrible mistake I’d made, but that’s for a later entry.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: So here we go again, I’ve realised after double checking when writing this post that I’ve once again made a mistake, although this time it’s not having the wrong move as the move I had was right, Koffing uses Smog in its appearance as a Pokeball Pokemon, which I’ve taught it as well as having it in a regular Pokeball. My mistake is that I believed Koffing just used Smog in its appearance in Smash Run as well, but now I’ve come realise it also has Poison Gas attack and on top of that, something I haven’t even considered before that might mean I’ll have to have another look at every other Pokemon (and maybe even other characters on my overall list) is Smash Tour. Apparently in Smash Tour there’s an event where Koffing will use Smokescreen. I have now taught Koffing both these moves, still this has made me realise I should probably just stay saved by the move reminder for when I get to later entries as I’m fairly sure this won’t be the last time I’ll need to do this.

Pokemon: Meowth.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Trophy (Meowth’s Party)

Moves: Payday.

My feelings on it: Speaking of Pokemon whose anime appearances I have mixed feelings on... I love Meowth, I really like how it looks and I’ve had them on my team a couple of times. I’m not as fond of Persian but I’ve never held off evolving it either and I do like it still. I also really like Meowth in the anime with him having some great moments through the series. So why am I mixed on his appearance then? Well the reason is that Meowth in the anime is so prominent he sort of tends to be all anyone thinks of when it comes to the species. With that said, this has changed in later years, Sun and Moon seemed to be a renaissance of Meowth with not just the Alolan variant but the Kanto version also being an NPC who belongs to your Mum in the game. Also with Meowth getting a Galarian version who I actually really like despite how ridiculous it looks, Meowth has gotten a lot more attention in recent years even gaining a separate evolution in its Galarian form into Perrserker who’s more like a bigger tougher Meowth than Persian.

How I caught it: I don’t really remember much of note when it came to catching Meowth, it could be because I’ve done it plenty of times before, but I simply caught one from the Route north of Vermillion City as I usually do.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: Fairly simple, I caught Meowth in a regular Pokeball and taught it Payday. There is one thing I suppose I should mention however, a Pokemon I don’t think I’ll be able to get even with a certain method I’ll detail in a later generation, but there was a trophy in Super Smash Bros Melee called Meowth’s Party based on a tech demo made to showoff what the Nintendo Gamecube could do. In this short Meowth sang a song for other Pokemon whilst playing a guitar. I believe this later was used as an ending theme for the anime in Japan and therefore this version of Meowth playing a guitar and singing is explicitly the Team Rocket Meowth. This version of Meowth has appeared in the games, specifically in Pokemon Yellow and Pokemon Lets Go Eevee and Pikachu where Jessie and James of Team Rocket battle with a team based on the anime. There was actually an event where Team Rocket’s Meowth could be downloaded in Japan and a couple of other countries in Pokemon Black and White 2, however it seems even with a method I’ll detail later it’s not possible to get that Meowth now. What makes this even more ironic for me is that this Meowth knew the move sing, I believe more likely in reference to Team Rocket’s Meowth being able to talk but it would have been ideal as a reference to Meowth’s Party. Still, I can only get so much and I’d rather at least have a Meowth at all at any rate.

Pokemon: Weezing.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Spirit.

Moves: Smog, Explosion.

My feelings on it: So similarly to Koffing I like Weezing, although of the two I definitely prefer the more happy looking Koffing. I will give Weezing credit though in how gross it is in how it’s sort of a tumour growing off of a Koffing in a sense. Not much more to add, similarly to Koffing and Meowth it has that same factor of often being seen as a villain Pokemon due to Team Rocket in the anime.

How I caught it: So as I explained in Koffing’s entry, I made a mistake and had to return to Pokemon Blue to find two Koffings which was difficult as they were a 5% encounter rate. I did eventually catch two (although if I remember right one of them when I finally found it used self-destruct which was pretty infuriating). All that was left then was to evolve Weezing which I did with a little grinding in Ultra Moon.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: So, similarly to Koffing, Weezing uses Smog in its appearance as a Pokeball Pokemon, and of course coming from a Pokeball means I caught it in a regular Pokeball to match that. The only other factor of note is Weezing’s spirit in Ultimate which raises Fire and Explosion attacks, this is likely a reference to them being able to self-destruct as I said about regarding catching the Koffing, but with the name being Explosion I figured the move to teach would be Explosion.

Pokemon: Beedrill.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon.

Moves: Take Down.

My feelings on it: Honestly the only thing of interest I find with Beedrill is that it starts off as Weedle who always reminded me of Wiggler from the Mario series. With that said it was one of the two bug type Pokemon you’d encounter at the very start of the Kanto games (before you reached the first gym) and like a lot of bug types evolves at a fairly low level meaning it’s useful if you want a fully evolved Pokemon early in the game. With that said I never really bother with early bug types now when I replay the games, but when I did I still always tended to pick Butterfree over Beedrill. Once again, the anime seems to have influenced its appearance in Smash Bros as Beedrill would often appear as a horde to chase characters which is similar to how it works in Smash 64.

How I caught it: From what I remember, in Pokemon Yellow of the two Weedle was less common than Caterpie, so whilst I was searching for a Pikachu (who was rare in Viridian Forest) and I came across a Weedle I realised it was best to catch that now as I’d rather not have to look for it later. There was one other notable aspect for Beedrill that I’ll detail in the next section.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: So Beedrill should have been fairly simple, evolves at a low level and only has one move it needed to learn as well as being an easy Bug type from the early game with a low catch rate meaning using a regular Pokeball was simple for it. Where it caused a bit of a problem is it was the first Pokemon on this list so far who could only learn it’s one move from Smash in Gen 1. Luckily this wasn’t due to levelling up but using a TM and it was a TM that was purchasable in the Celedon Department Store so was fairly easy to get. The move being Take Down wasn’t really what I expected given Beedrill’s known for its poison sting or pin missile attack, but that’s part of why I enjoy doing this because it’s a unique weirdness I wouldn’t really have bothered with otherwise.

Pokemon: Articuno.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Spirit, Trophy.

Moves: Icy Wind, Reflect, Ice Beam.

My feelings on it: Of the three Legendary Birds I suppose Articuno always felt a little more special to me, although I wouldn’t call it my favourite either, still it’s probably of the three the most ‘majestic’ and its location in the Seafoam Isles probably felt the most fitting of a ‘legendary creature’ of the three. Beyond that I don’t particularly have many more thoughts on it, it does have a nice design though.

How I caught it: Being the first legendary Pokemon entry I’ve written, it has a more specific way to catch it than just tracking it down through random encounters. Seafoam Isles was something I always remembered being really annoying but replaying it now makes me realise it’s far more simple than I used to think. Being able to save right before battling it also is somewhat of a series tradition when it comes to Legendaries which makes it honestly easier in some ways than regular Pokemon that are just difficult to find (as we’ll get to regarding a certain Safari Zone in a later entry). The only real irritating part of this battle is something unique to Gen 1 which is Pokeballs missing. This doesn’t happen too often in most of the game but is definitely apparent when battling the Legendary Birds or Mewtwo. With that said, honestly despite worrying it’s some additional mechanic in reality it’s just another way of the game demonstrating there’s a low catch rate and from what I’ve read (I’m definitely not a Pokemon expert) is just the equivalent in later games of the Pokeball not shaking at all, so it’s nothing to really be concerned about. Another thing I’ll add is of the two I far prefer this method of capturing Pokemon to the Roaming Legendaries, but I’ll get more into them when it comes to Gen 2. My final note to make is, for this whole challenge because the only Pokeballs that appear in Super Smash Bros are regular Pokeballs or Masterballs, I limited myself to only using them for this challenge. Due to this I believed I had to catch everything in Gen 1 in a regular Pokeball, which definitely is part of the reason why I saw so many ‘miss’ Articuno during the fight. What’s irritating is something I later learned after catching every Pokemon for my list in Gen 1 and 2, which really would have helped me a lot is actually in the Game Boy (or in my case Virtual Console) versions of the game don’t record what Pokeball you use as they’ll always appear in later games as a regular Pokeball. Of course I didn’t learn this through wasting my time with regular Pokeballs in these games, but in fact through spending a long time in Gen 2 trying to catch Pokemon with special Apricorn balls only to learn when transferring them from the Virtual Console version of Crystal they would only appear in Pokeballs, thus wasting all that time I spent getting them. Anyway, this is probably the longest ‘capture’ section I’ve done so far in an entry so I won’t repeat all this later I think.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: I had to capture Articuno in a regular Pokeball due to it being a Pokeball Pokemon in Smash Bros which as I stated in the last section was irritating and actually not needed. Beyond this, in its appearance in Super Smash Bros Melee, Articuno uses the attack Icy Wind which was simple enough to teach it. In Articuno’s spirit battle, or more specifically the Spirit Battle it shares with Moltress and Zapdos, they are all represented by Lucas with a Franklin Badge. This reflects (haha) the Legendary Bird’s defensive moves they all learn at Level 10 which for Articuno is Reflect, therefore I taught Articuno that also. Now to add something since finishing this entry and coming back, I decided to go one extra step and look through the bios of every Pokemon trophy in the Smash Bros series, and I discovered in doing so a fair few moves mentioned in Pokemon’s bios they don’t use in the Smash series at all, so the loser that I am, I decided to teach as many Pokemon as I could these moves. Ice Beam is mentioned in Articuno’s trophy so I taught it, luckily this was a fairly simple TM move so didn’t take one of the many heart scales I’ve had to use for a lot of other Pokemon.

Pokemon: Electrode.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Stage Hazard, Pokeball Pokemon, Trophy.

Moves: Explosion, Self-Destruct.

My feelings on it: Electrode is probably the biggest example of a functional but boring Pokemon to me. It along with its pre-evolved form Voltorb is known for being disguised as a Pokeball you find on the ground, then attacking you when you go to pick it up, using its very high speed to often use either Self-Destruct or use Explosion which takes it out and often can be very damaging to your Pokemon. I’ve always felt like it’s lacking beyond that but I also haven’t used it enough to really say much on it in regards to that, either way that’s my thoughts on it really, it definitely has an iconic role in the series but there’s not that much that appeals to me regarding it personally.

How I caught it: I believe I caught this Pokemon as a Voltorb in the Power Plant, possibly as one of the ones that was disguised as an item but it might have been a random encounter also. I believe I had one self-destruct on me for the first attempt which was annoying but caught it on the second.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: Fairly simple here, it was caught in a regular Pokeball and I taught it explosion after it evolved.Of course, this turned out to be too simple as Electrode had to have a mention in its trophy entry of Self-Destruct, still it was simple enough to teach this also and I consider it now complete.

Pokemon: Moltres.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Background Pokemon, Pokeball Pokemon, Spirit, Trophy.

Moves: Fly, Safeguard, Ember, Sky Attack.

My feelings on it: Of the three Moltres is probably my favourite Legendary Bird. Simply put despite not being as ‘majestic’ as Articuno it just has such a cool look with its flaming wings. It was probably the most prominent of the three in the original series of the anime too being the only one that actually appeared during the Indigo League and its flame being used as a torch for the Pokemon League similar to the Olympic Flame. There’s also of course James in the anime dressing up as Moltres but I don’t want to go on about the anime too much here. Probably the worst aspect of Moltres in Gen 1 was of the three Legendary Birds it probably had the least interesting appearance being in a section of Victory Road. As a result it was entirely possible to just run into Moltress when trying to get to the Pokemon League rather than it being in a location that was more optional and out of the way. This was fixed later in Pokemon Fire Red and Leaf Green where instead it appears more fittingly at the top of Mt. Ember on one of the Sevii Islands.

How I caught it: As stated in the previous section I tracked Moltres down in Victory Road. I believe I actually ran into it before the Pokemon League but as I wanted to focus on beating the story at that point rather than catching the Legendaries I held off and came back for it later. When I did return to it later it was difficult but nothing majorly so to the point I can’t really remember much about it now.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: So once again I caught Moltres in a Pokeball. Despite the variety of fire attacks at its disposal and the main danger element it had when coming out of a Pokeball in Smash Bros being the fire surrounding it, the actual attack it uses is simply fly with it damaging anyone who comes into contact with it. It’s the spirit battle that it shares with Articuno and Zapdos which really provides any other moves for it with one of them being Lucas who represents it having a Franklin Badge that reflects attacks. This references each bird’s defensive move which in Moltres’s case is Safeguard. The Lucas who represents Moltres also uses PK Fire often which just represents Moltres’s fire type really, but the closest I thought it was to a Pokemon move really is Ember therefore I also taught it that. That would have been the end of it… but of course I decided to read Moltres’s trophy descriptions, and to my surprise it seems like repeatedly Moltres would always have Sky Attack mentioned. Sky Attack’s always been an attack I forget was in the series ever since Gen 1, still it was simple enough with a Heart Scale to teach it to Moltres.

Pokemon: Staryu.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Spirit Battle, Trophy.

Moves: Swift, Recover, Camouflage.

My feelings on it: Just like Starmie I like Staryu a lot. I went over most of my thoughts in Starmie’s entry so I guess the only other thing to add is it’s interesting how Starmie only appeared once in the Smash series and then Staryu replaced it, actually to the point Starmie gets no representation whatsoever beyond Smash 64. Staryu does lack the Psychic typing Starmie has so that definitely loses it a few points, but I must admit of the two Staryu’s easier to make look more expressive with its smaller form and fewer… limbs?

How I caught it: So as I stated in Starmie’s entry, I simply caught two Staryus (most likely at Seafoam Isles but I can’t remember for sure) and kept one as Staryu whilst evolving the second into Starmie.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: Fairly simple, I caught it in a Pokeball and taught it Swift. The only other aspect related to it in Smash was that in its spirit battle it would gradually heal over time, this was definitely in reference to Staryu’s recover move which is something often associated with its evolutionary line specifically, so I simply taught it Recover also. This was not the end of things however because after reading Staryu’s trophy description I realised it mentioned its Camouflage move, so I also had to teach it that before it was complete.

Pokemon: Venusaur.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Stage Hazard, Pokeball Pokemon, Trophy.

Moves: Earthquake, Razor Leaf, Poison Powder, Solar Beam.

My feelings on it: My favourite of the three Kanto starters, I often tend to gravitate towards the grass type starters and that all started with Bulbasaur. I do remember when I was younger however, of the three final evolutions of the starters I always tended to not like Venusaur too much, often feeling the other two were cooler and more interesting and how they fit more into things like Smash Bros. I eventually changed this opinion however when I realised just what a tank Venusaur was like (I’m talking just as a Pokemon not gameplay-wise) with it being almost like a swiss-army-knife of a Pokemon with vines, razor leaves, a massive laser and being able to cause earthquakes. Of course this is hardly something unique to it and the other two starters can learn various moves beyond just the obvious like breathing fire or shooting water, still it was something I just started to like Venusaur for specifically and helped improve my initial lower opinion of it. Related to my earlier story for Blastoise, of the three of us I ended up getting the Venusaur card, although sadly I eventually lost it, or it’s been put away somewhere and I just haven’t found it to this day.

How I caught it: The same as I said in my entry for Blastoise, I simply transferred over a Bulbasaur before restarting the game to pick another starter.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: Venusaur has had a fairly varied history in Smash Bros, and due to this it has had a few moves over the years. The first appearance was as a stage hazard in Saffron City in the original Smash Bros. For this appearance Venusaur would appear from a door on the rooftop and fire razor leaves, meaning this was the obvious attack to teach it. Venusaur’s appearance as a Pokeball Pokemon was different with it appearing and causing an earthquake, this would have been fairly simple but as it was, when I transferred and raised Venusaur in Ultra Moon I realised the TM to teach it Earthquake was in an area only accessible in the post-game. Due to this I held off for a long time until I was ready to play through the Rainbow Rocket storyline before finally being able to teach it Earthquake. Finally in the spirit battle with Venusaur one of the conditions is a poisoned floor. This is mostly a reference to Venusaur’s poison typing, however I decided it was simple enough to represent this with Poison Powder since it was something that would instantly poison an opponent and a fairly standard move the Bulbasaur line can learn. Being a starter Venusaur was already in a regular Pokeball. The only other thing which I forgot at first was that Mega Venusaur appears as a trophy in Smash, so due to this I need to get my Venusaur a Venusaurite Mega Stone similarly to Blastoise, however as I cannot take a screenshot of Mega Venusaur I thought similarly to Mega Blastoise there was no need to rush into getting that. Of course, after saying that there was one other thing I forgot which was if Venusaur’s Trophy Description mentioned any other moves and it did, Solar Beam. Luckily Venusaur already knew that so I didn’t need to teach it anything more.

Pokemon: Zapdos.

Region: Kanto.

Role in Smash Bros series: Pokeball Pokemon, Background Pokemon, Spirit Battle, Trophy.

Moves: Thundershock, Light Screen, Thunder, Drill Peck.

My feelings on it: Zapdos is probably my second favourite of the legendary birds. Part of that is partially because I tend to like electric types and therefore prefer it to the other birds typings, however it’s also helped by its design which is odd but also stands out. Probably the most prominent thing I always think about with Zapdos, besides its spiky feathers is its beak. The beak always makes me think of Drill Peck, probably more than the actual electric attacks it can use, it just looks like something you really wouldn’t want to have swooping at you. It’s appearance in the Power Plant is definitely better than Moltres location, but I feel it’s not as ‘mysterious’ as Articuno’s location, if anything it makes me think more of looking in some old shed and having some old bird that’s been nesting there attack you than tracking down a legendary creature.

How I caught it: The same as the other two birds I caught it with a regular Pokeball which was annoying. I vaguely remember it being a bit more dangerous than the other two to face and with its electric typing it wouldn’t take as much damage from my Pikachu as those two would.

Specific aspects from Smash Bros: I caught it in a Pokeball and it knew Thundershock when caught which was fairly simple. Like with the other two Legendary Birds it shares a spirit battle with, it too has a defensive move represented with the Franklin Badge, in Zapdos’s case Light Screen which I therefore also taught it. I originally had Fly for its moveset due to its appearance in the background of Lumiose City flying around, however, when reading its Trophy descriptions I came to realise there were two attacks mentioned I had not taught Zapdos, the first was Thunder and the second was Drill Peck. Luckily Zapdos knew Drill Peck already and Thunder was a simple enough TM to use so it did not need too much more work.

Credits.

For information on this game I used to research relating to attributes such as movesets etc for Pokemon I must give credit to Bulbapedia, Serebii and SmashWiki.

The screenshots in this post are taken by me using the Photo Club feature in Pokemon Ultra Moon, screenshots using Nintendo Switch in Super Smash Bros Ultimate and Trophy Images taken from SmashWiki.

#Pokemon #pokemon ultra sun and moon #Pokemon Red and Blue #Pokemon Yellow #Generation 1 #Gen 1 #Nintendo 3ds #3DS #super smash bros #my smash playthrough #my smash playthroughs

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hisunshiine · 4 years ago

Text

To All The Men I’ve Fucked Before ; (M) jjk

↣ When your secret 'sex' journal entries are somehow texted to the people they were written about, including a couple of coworkers and your best friend, you find your quiet work existence turned upside down. based off of TATBILB.

moodboards | playlist | Netflix ReImagined BTS Masterlist | TATMIFB masterlist

↳ #NetflixReImaginedBTS: Jeon Jungkook x Reader starring in a fake dating au, photographer!JK, stylist!Reader

⟢ pairing: photographer!jungkook x stylist!reader

⟢ word count: 30.7k

⟢ genre + warnings: nsfw 18+, fake relationship, smluff © & angst, kissing, fluffy fake relationship cuteness, jealousy, jungkook needs help with feelings, clothed humping, explicit sexual content in the form of unprotected sex, multiple orgasms, body worship, cunnilingus, fingering, handjob, hickies, blowjob, creampie, begging, strip tease if you squint, baby petname, crying, feelings of heartbreak, oh did i mention angst? namkook fist fight, minimal arguing, minimal blood, other idols make brief appearances, OT7 is present

⟢ summary: When your secret 'sex' journal entries are somehow texted to the people they were written about, including a couple of coworkers and your best friend, you find your quiet work existence turned upside down. based off of the netflix film and novel by jenny han, but different.

⟢ an: hello, hello! this is probably my favorite story to date that i’ve written and the longest one shot! I am so grateful to everyone who helped me by reading this (most are not on tumblr), but especially my baby hana, @taestulip, who always reads and hypes me up. the movie/book series it’s based off of is honestly one of my faves, and turning it into an adult version was a lot of fun! I know i took out some characters and changed a lot of the plot devices, but for good reason, as it is it’s own novel, I did not want to encroach on that territory. fake dating au’s are some of my absolute faves and so i hope you enjoy this! sorry for the length, sksksks.

⟢ prologues: NJ & Reader | Love Triangle (coming soon) |

The large glass building was located on the corner of the block, in the heart of the city. A sight to see from all corners of the downtown area, you loved that you worked at BigHit Music. Of course, housing the globally recognized idol duo, SeoulM8, made working there fun. You walked into the building, and swiped your badge as you made your way through the secured entrance and up the elevator to your office.

The gold plaque on your door highlighted your name and position. To this day you’re still in awe to see your name engraved in sans serif with the words “Lead Wardrobe Stylist” written beneath it. You entered the office, flipping on the lights and smiling at the large board along the back wall. It was covered with the designs you would need for the upcoming shoot for SeoulM8’s fan content, first single off their newest album, and plans for the concert wardrobe as well.

Placing your empty insulated coffee tumbler on your desk, you set down all of your belongings, organizing your design tablet, notebook, and favorite writing utensils before once again taking the tumbler in hand. A cup of coffee would be perfect to start your busy Monday before your meeting with Jimin and Taehyung about their wardrobe later today.

Walking into the employee lounge area, you set about making your coffee. Others walked in and out, dropping off packed lunches and grabbing coffee as well, so you can’t help but hear the gossip as two of the women who work with SeoulM8 discuss the latest office drama.

“I can’t believe it. She broke up with him!” Becca said, her colorful pixie cut swaying slightly as she shook her head.

“She’s crazy, Jungkook is gorgeous; have you seen his thighs?” Theresa responded, twirling her dark purple curls in wonder.

You stirred in the caramel creamer slowly, listening to their conversation. Jeon Jungkook and Jeon Somin (no relation) had been dating for almost as long as you could remember. It was surprising to hear that they were broken up.

“Somin is really pretty too, though, she could have any guy… What if that’s what it was?”

“You think someone better than Jungkook came along and wooed her?”

“I mean… I swore I heard a rumor that she went out on a date with one of the actors, but who knows. All we know for sure is that Jungkook is single.”

Finishing your coffee, you closed the lid to your favorite cup and left the room, smiling politely to Becca and Theresa who provided you with the information that had your head reeling. The entire walk back to your office, and even once you were seated at the desk, you couldn’t stop thinking about Jungkook and Somin.

Somin was one of the first friends you made at BigHit School for Music and Artists when you transferred in after completing your AA requirements at another university. BHSMA operated differently than traditional universities, converting students to employees at the company associated with the school. It was where you met Jungkook, Jimin, and a few other people that you worked closely with at the company. After that first year though, you grew apart from some of the people you spent that entire first year with, making new friends, like the one walking in through your office door.

So lost in thoughts of the past, you almost knocked over your perfectly made coffee onto your design tablet, where you had been sketching aimlessly. A dimpled smile was the cause of your quickly beating heart, complimenting the face of Namjoon, who startled you when he called your name loudly.

“Joon, I swear, one day, you will be the death of me, and my electronics.”

“Listen, you dropped your phone all on your own, no one told you to be scared when I walked into the room.”

“Stop being so fucking loud when you enter, you startle people!”

He just laughed, his pretty eyes disappearing as he expelled joy. Namjoon was glowing, his tanned skin looking healthy and youthful. You couldn’t help but smile at him as he pushed his falling platinum hair out of his dark eyes and set his gaze on you.

“I think I’m gonna do it today, Y/N.”

You froze, smile still on display, but a little less enthusiastic than when he had first walked in.

“Do it?” You asked, wary as you saw his hand drift to his inside coat pocket.

“I love her, Y/N. I think I’m gonna ask her to be mine, always.” Namjoon removed a small velvet box from his pocket and you reached for it, hand trembling slightly. Namjoon, in his excitement, was oblivious to the way you shook, as well as the sound of your heart splintering. “Do you think Jennie will like it?”

Looking at the ring tucked into the box, you nodded, not trusting your voice. Of course Jennie would. It was beautiful. A rose gold band with an opulent Moonstone set in the middle, and two smaller diamonds set on either side. You knew that the moonstone was Joon’s favorite, he talked about how much he loved the moon countless late nights that you would sit with him in his studio.

“It’s gorgeous, Namjoon.” You said quietly. This time, he noticed the tremble of your voice, and stood worriedly from where he was perched on the corner of your desk.

“Whoa, what’s wrong?” He asked you, concerned by your demeanor.

“Nothing, I’m just so happy for you.” You lied, tilting your head back to blink away the forming tears. Believing you, he enveloped you into a hug and you hugged him back tightly, afraid to let go.

“Ah, you have a meeting soon and I’m here making you cry… I’ll see you after and tell you how it went! Good luck, Y/N!”

Namjoon exited your office, footsteps light as he headed towards his future… and away from you. Sinking into your chair, you take several steadying breaths in order to settle your heart. Why did it hurt so much? You had given up on the idea of you and Namjoon a long time ago. This wasn’t what you expected to have to deal with when you arrived to work, but you were a professional. Wiping your smudged eyeliner to clean up your makeup, you looked down at your design tablet, where you see the sketch of a professional camera held by a large hand up to a large doe eye half finished on your screen.

Hitting the “new” button, you begin to draw anew on a clean canvas creating the concept for the concert design for your meeting with SeoulM8 later on.

—

Sitting at home, you massaged the soles of your feet as you rested on your couch with your younger sister, Yuna, who was doing her homework at the coffee table. It had been a long day, but Jimin and Taehyung loved your idea for their concert concept: young guys traveling Seoul for group songs, and angelic, soft individual images of them with feathered outfits to match their solo songs.

“Yuna… Namjoon is getting engaged today.”

Your sister stopped working, turning to look at you with eyes wide. She had been diligently studying for the cosmetology courses she was taking at your alma mater in hopes of getting hired at the same company as you. This news threw her off track.

“What? He—wait, what?”

You nodded, letting out a deep sigh as you turned towards the floor to ceiling windows in the living room. Rain was steadily falling, the perfect backdrop to your mood.

“Both of our dreams are shattered. He showed me the ring and said he was proposing today. To Jennie.”

Yuna flung herself onto the couch dramatically.

“Can we please drink to drown our sorrows? This homework can wait.”

You nodded, turning on Netflix before getting up to grab the wine and glasses. While you stood on tiptoe at the edge of the counter, reaching up into the tall cabinet for the long stemmed glasses, the doorbell to your apartment rang.

“I’ll get it!” Yuna yelled, and so you clambered onto the counter, knees digging into the marble as you finally managed to reach your goal.

“Oh! Namjoon?”

You almost slipped from where you were perched, confused as to why your newly engaged best friend would be loudly squelching his tennis shoes into your apartment and not ravishing his fiancee. You expected a text or call about the engagement, not a personally delivered update.

You wouldn’t be able to pretend this time.

Turning to look at the entryway, you see a downtrodden and sopping wet Namjoon, eyes rimmed red from crying.

“Joonie?” Your voice was soft, questioning. He maneuvered across the kitchen with just three big steps and pulled you into his arms. His body slotted between your thighs where you sat on the counter after almost falling, and he let loose a sob that broke your heart even more than earlier.

“Joon, what happened?” You asked, scared.

“J-Jennie… she said no.” Your eyes widened in shock, but you waited patiently for him to continue. “She’s moving to Japan, she took that expansion position… She broke up with me.”

—

It was a long night to say the least. 2 wine glasses turned into 3 once Namjoon had shown up. You grabbed some of his spare clothes for him to change into, threw his stuff in the washer, and joined Yuna and him back in the living room where they had both curled up and began watching The Start Up on Netflix.

Climbing onto the couch, you wrapped your arm around him and placed your head on his shoulder. He kissed your forehead before settling in to watch TV, and you couldn’t help the way your heart reacted to it. He had always been affectionate with you during your time as best friends, though it had lessened some the more serious he and Jennie became. The difference now was that this time, he was single. A part of you hoped it could mean more in the future.

By episode 2, Namjoon was asleep on Yuna’s shoulder; no surprise considering how tired he must have been. He had cried on his way to your apartment, and the last of his tears onto your shirt when he arrived. Luckily, you hadn’t yet changed out of your own work clothes, so when you grabbed his garments, you took the opportunity to change into a spaghetti strap tank and sweatpants for couch cuddling. You turned off the TV as you untangled yourself from him, stretching as he roused slightly from your movements.

“Don’t you two just look like the sweetest couple,” you say yawning, gently teasing your sister who was beet red from your words. Her crush on Namjoon was nothing new, but not something she wanted him to know about. She already knew she was too young for him; seen as nothing more than his best friend’s little sister. A part of Yuna was jealous that you had better chances with him than she did.

“Shut it!” Her whisper is harsh, but Namjoon slept on, unaware of the sisterly teasing. “I already know you’re gonna write all about this in your sex book!”

You rolled your eyes, having forgotten about your old journal that you kept. You just shrugged, leaning down to gently wake Namjoon so you can put him to bed.

“Come on sleepy… Let’s get up and go to bed okay?”

His large frame shuffled across the living room and down the hallway to your room. You heard him plop heavily on your bed, probably already asleep without having pulled back the covers. You put the empty wine glasses into the sink and straightened up the living room a tiny bit before you went to your room as well.

Not yet ready for bed, you sat at your desk with the small lamp on, staring at the old journal your sister reminded you about. The image on the front is faded; you can barely make out what it used to be as you’ve covered it with doodles and stickers that are peeling at the edges. Opening it, you turned through the pages, taking in the lengthy entries about the boys you’ve slept with, starting with the one you lost your virginity to.

Your finger grazed across the fancy calligraphy where you wrote his name at the top in a purple gel pen in. Jeon Jungkook. You laughed at the way you wrote about him, first describing him as a person before giving the intimate details of the experience, and finally ending it with a brief message of what you had wanted to say to him. Your eyes scanned the page, certain sentences catching your attention as you read it.

“...and the way he held my neck when he first entered me, I think I’m in love.”

“He said it was his first time too. Does this mean something?”

“Jungkook, having you as my first… I want you to be my last. You looked at me as if the galaxies were reflected in my eyes. I want to feel the way you make me feel all the time. I hope that this does change things between us, but in a good way.”

You cringe a little, remembering how it didn’t turn out that way. Instead, after that night 5 years ago, you didn’t talk to Jungkook for a couple of days due to exam week. You texted him after your last test and he told you to come over; he wanted to talk to you about something too. But when you went to his dorm to see him and confess, you found him with Somin, your best friend at the time. They weren’t doing anything outrageous, just sitting on his twin bed in his dorm room talking, but you heard what she was saying through the door that was cracked.

Somin was confessing. You had no idea that she liked him too. It made your heart tight knowing that he had slept with you a week prior, and now your best friend was confessing to him. To be fair, neither of you had told the other about your feelings towards him. So instead of walking in and telling him how you felt, you left. He had texted you later asking what happened to you coming over but you lied, saying you had gotten busy.

On the last day of the semester, Somin shared that she was dating Jungkook. Shocked and heartbroken, you wasted no time packing up your dorm for the summer and traveling home. Phone calls, texts, and plans to meetup became less frequent between your group of friends over the following semester until they eventually stopped. Did you stop talking to Jungkook and Somin… or was it them that stopped talking to you?

Turning the pages, you move on from the thoughts of the photographer and stop at the next blank page. Grabbing a blue gel pen from the cup on your desk, you write with flair.

Kim Namjoon.

How do I even begin to express how I feel about you? God, you make my heart flutter. I met you at a time when I needed someone. You were the bane of my existence at first, blasting your loud music from the apartment under mine. Going to yell at you turned out to be the best thing. You turned out to be the best thing. Of course, you had just started going out on dates with Jennie and you would be graduating a year ahead of me, but I knew that we would stay best friends. I mean, most BHSMA students intern at and get hired by the company. So for the longest time, I hid my feelings from you. That one night, before you and Jennie were exclusive… when we had sex, I thought my heart would burst. I never wanted a man so badly before that night. You are the moon in my sky, Kim Namjoon. What other body could pull an entire ocean from shore to shore? What other being could wrap me in love from beginning to end? Tonight you have just lost your moon. I am a terrible person because a part of me is happy to not be losing her moon. So now, I will climb into bed next to your sleeping body and hold you close as we sleep, and pray when the morning comes, in the light of the day, you will open your eyes and see me—the faint moon in the sky that has always been there for you. Maybe you will finally see me—and decide you want me too.

Setting the pen down, you reach for your phone. In your slightly drunken state, you decided to take pictures of each entry, in order to move these to a more secure environment and take your journal digital. You snapped a picture of each page (not that there were many) before you checked your phone for messages and plugged it in. You left your room to shut down all the lights now that Yuna was finished putting away her stuff and making her way to bed as well.

“Hey, can I grab an extra notebook from your stash? I need to finish taking these notes on mixing hair colors.”

“Sure, it’s under the desk in the blue bin.”

She nodded and you continued past her, double checking the door to make sure it was locked before moving to throw Namjoon’s clothes into the dryer. Once satisfied that the house was in order, you went to your room. Yuna was standing over your desk, eyes reading your latest entry into the journal.

“Yuna! Get out!”

“This is beautiful though, he should see it. You need to tell him how you feel!”

You shook your head.

“No. He just got his heart broken. It’s not the time to tell him.”

“You’re stubborn,” she whispered back at you, “you’re gonna lose him again!”

“Then that’s how it was destined to be. But I am not taking advantage of his vulnerable state.”

“You’re gonna be single forever. Spending every night with your baby sister, drinking wine because all the men you have ever loved have moved on!”

“Go to bed, Yuna!”

She shrugged as she walked out of the room, knowing that she was right. Deep down, a part of you felt like she was right too.

Climbing into bed, you struggled to lift the covers over Namjoon’s slumbering frame before it pulled free and you could cover the two of you. As you settled into the bed next to him, he instinctively wrapped his arm around you, pulling you to his chest in his sleep.

You knew that his dreams were imagining Jennie in his arms instead.

—

That next morning, you checked Namjoon’s phone for his calendar. Having known him for several years, you know his passcode and that he keeps his work schedule exclusively on his cell. Typing in the code, 0613, you saw that his calendar stated that he didn’t need to go to the office until around noon.

Lucky, you thought, eyeing the time on the phone. It was a little past 6:45am, and you had to wake your sister for her hands-on class before you got ready for the day.

“Yuna! It’s almost 7,” you say as you knocked on her door and heard a muffled response. You headed back to your room and chose your outfit, knowing that the day would be busy and long with the concept photoshoot for SeoulM8 starting today. Choosing your outfit wisely, you climbed into the shower a few minutes later and spent at least a half hour just trying to cure the small hangover from the wine.

Once dressed, you found Yuna packing her bag for class. It was getting close to 8, which is the latest that you could leave to be at work on time, so you wrote a quick note to Namjoon and ran back to leave it on the bed. His hand snaked out of the covers just as you were pulling your hand back, a gentle grip to your wrist holding you there.

“Y/N, thank you for last night.” His voice is like a bullfrog’s croak, and you chuckled.

“Let me get you some water and some pain meds, okay? And of course Joonie, I’m here for you.” You leaned onto the bed with one knee, smoothing his hair back from his face once he’s released your wrist. “Always.”

Pressing your lips to his warm forehead, he pulled you down onto the bed with a hug and you can’t help but laugh.

“I’ve got to go! I’ll see you later, okay?” He nodded before he grips your neck, bringing his lips to your forehead this time. His lips linger longer than usual, and you shut your eyes at the tenderness of his kiss.

“Go back to sleep, now.” You pulled away from him, going to grab the medicine and water before you and Yuna leave the apartment.

—

You made it to work with extra time to make your coffee, so after you dropped off all of your extra stuff, you grabbed your tumbler and work tablet with all of your drawn designs for today’s shoot and made your way through the busy halls to the employee lounge. Today, the door was propped open for ease as it was a busier day in the building.

You stood at the counter, stirring in the caramel creamer that you loved, when you felt a presence enter the room behind you.

“Y/N.”

Turning lazily, you cocked your eyebrow at Jungkook, who was standing awkwardly behind you. He had kicked the doorstop, allowing the door to close so that the two of you stood alone in the small staff kitchen. His hands were tucked into his joggers, while a white button down hung loosely from his frame.

“Whats up JK?” You asked, expecting him to address something about the shoot. You hadn’t yet seen the men you were to dress, so you couldn’t fathom he was here to complain already about the costuming. “If it’s about the wardrobe, I haven’t even seen Tae or Jimin yet, so—”

“Actually, no. Um,” he rubbed the back of his neck before making eye contact with you, “I know that when we had sex that one time, it was great—”

Instantly, alarm bells went off in your head. What the actual fuck was Jungkook doing talking about the night you lost your virginity to each other?

“—but I just... don’t feel the same way that you do about me. You know? That was years ago, and yeah while it was just as good for me as it was for you, I’m not in love with you or anything, I just broke up with Somin too, so—”

“Jungkook! Wait—what are you talking about?”

“The text you sent me.”

“Jungkook, I haven’t texted you in weeks.” You looked down at the phone you had pulled out of the back pocket of your ripped black jeans, and opened up the messages. You noticed his text thread was now at the top. “Wait, what?”

Opening his specific thread you see the screenshot of the page from your journal that you took last night, sent to him. How the fuck did this happen? In your drunken state, did you send it to him? You begin to ramble as you throw the spoon in the sink with a loud clunk and begin screwing the lid on the coffee.

“Jungkook, stop. That was from a long time ago, it’s not recent at all, oh my god. I am so sorry you had to read that—you know what, I’m just gonna head to the set now. Okay, bye!” You breezed past him, feet carrying you out of the employee lounge with a swiftness. Once back in your office you stared at the horrid message, outraged at yourself for your drunken antics.

Drunk you must really hate sober you.

—

Work was just as hectic as you thought it was going to be. After the most embarrassing morning, you were summoned right away to a last minute meeting with Jimin and Tae, where you made minor changes to their wardrobe.

“Y/N, you were always good at this in school, but damn. You are amazing now.” Jimin stared at you reflected in the mirror after you had turned his outfit into something fit for the concept with a few movements of the material that wrapped his body. Park Jimin, one of the few people you were still somewhat close with from that first year of school, was now a big shot idol, and one-half of SeoulM8. Kim Taehyung, his best friend, was the other part of the duo. He had met him after everyone split off after that first year. Going by the stage names Jimin and V, the two had met in their vocal lesson classes when Taehyung had switched his major, and BigHit saw potential in them.

You walked with Jimin towards the set of the photo shoot, one of the bigger production rooms today due to the use of the second level. They would be posing next to a hole in the floor, feathers falling around them. Taehyung was already antsy to get started, and was playing around with Somin, who was one of the group’s managers, while he waited for Jimin to arrive back to the set. Now, it looked like the only person missing was the photographer.

Walking to the fold out table set up at the back wall, you heard your phone chime. Opening to your messages, you saw a text from someone you hadn’t talked to in a while.

“Seo Joon?” You question quietly to yourself, but before you could even read the message, you saw a similarly embarrassing photo above his reply.

“Oh God, oh God...” You clicked out of his message thread, ignoring the reply because you honestly didn’t care. What you actually cared about was if you had somehow sent the most recent entry of your journal to the last person on Earth who was ready to read it. Namjoon.

“Fuck. Oh no. Oh no.” Sitting there, you saw the message clear as day with the small read receipt that it indeed had been read by him. The door to the set opened and Jungkook came waltzing through with his assistant. Before the door had a chance to swing closed all the way, you saw Namjoon’s form enter the room.

“Alright, let’s get started!” Jungkook’s voice was loud and called everyone’s attention except for Namjoon. His eyes were on you. He beelined your way, and you readied yourself to apologize to him, but before either of you could say anything, Jungkook interrupted.

“Hey Joon, good to see you hyung! I’m so sorry though, we got a closed set and need to get started… tight time schedule and all.”

“I just need to talk to Y/N.”

Jungkook took in Namjoon’s demeanor; eyes red, hair disheveled, voice wobbly. It was so unlike Namjoon to look this way that Jungkook looked at you before speaking. Your expression was confusing to Jungkook, as he knew Namjoon was your best friend. Your eyes were wide in fear with tears forming… when you didn’t say a word, Jungkook took charge. A part of him saw that fear in your eyes and wanted to protect you.

“Look Joon-hyung, normally I wouldn’t mind, but we need Y/N on set the entire time today. Wardrobe is important for concept photos, you can understand right? Maybe at break time or something?”

Namjoon nodded as Jungkook’s arm wrapped around your waist and he led you away from the table and back towards where the staging was set. When you finally chanced a look back, you saw the assistants leading Namjoon and a few other non-essential workers out of the room. Everyone else on set had watched the exchange between the three of you, including Somin. Her eyes narrowed as she took in the way Jungkook’s fingers curled around your frame.

At break time, you hid out, avoiding Namjoon who had, reluctantly, waited several hours until break was called. He would have to go into the studio soon, which you knew since you saw his calendar, and after the short 30 minute break, Jungkook retrieved you from the small side room you were hiding in when they resumed the next set of shots using black leather and wings.

The shoot kept your thoughts off of the incident, as you so aptly decided to call it in your head, until it was time to leave. You walked out with a large group, stealthily making it to your office. You sat on the floor with your back to the door, reviewing how many received these drunken messages of yours, happy to see that only 3 actually went through, since most of them were no longer in your phone anymore or had changed their numbers.

Park Seo Joon, an ex from your second year at BHSMA, had moved to Japan for work, and while he did respond, he figured it was a mistake and as the smart person he was, he noticed the date in the corner and was aware that it was old. You breathed a sigh of relief, glad to have avoided that potentially awkward scenario.

Hearing your phone ping, you checked the message and saw it was Jungkook. A series of messages came in from him, and you read them in succession.

Shaking your head, you stand, grabbing the white outfits from the rack an assistant had brought in earlier after the set change. Throwing them over your arm, you head off to the set in a rush, shooting back a quick text to let him know you were coming.

Most everyone from earlier was back on set, expressions showcasing various stages of irritation. You handed the clothing to an unusually quiet Somin, and lifted your now free arm to wave at the artists. Somin walked away, throwing quiet looks over at you and Jungkook, who you were standing near now that you had approached the table. Jungkook was leaning on that same table, arms crossed as he reviewed the printout of what was needed.

“You know they sent us an updated list 2 hours after we started shooting? While we were all here, they thought that we could somehow read their minds. Then when I uploaded and sent the file over to have them double check, they responded that we had to finish it tonight.”

“It’s annoying for sure, JK, but you know Jimin and Tae will deliver. Once they’re dressed I bet we’ll be done in like 15 minutes, max.”

He nodded, smiling at your optimism.

“Hey, are you gonna tell me what earlier was about? With Namjoon hyung?”

You froze, not expecting the question, but you were saved from having to answer right then, since Namjoon walked in at that moment. It was too late for you to go anywhere; you were standing too close to the door, trapped between the table and Namjoon, who looked hurt. Jungkook read the situation and took several steps away to give you some privacy with Namjoon.

“You’ve been avoiding me all day. After that message—did you think that I wouldn’t read it? I just broke up with Jennie, Y/N, it’s… I’m not… You can’t just say this shit to me right now.”

“Namjoon—I didn’t mean to, I was drunk and I promise you it’s not what you think, I don’t feel that way, okay?” You try and take it all back, wishing more than anything that he hadn’t read what you had written the previous night.

“You don’t feel that way? Are you kidding me? I read it!”

“No, I don’t feel that way, okay? I’m with someone else.” You lied. You hoped that he would buy it.

“Y/N, I’m your best friend. Don’t you think I would know?”

“Yeah, you're my best friend, but you and Jennie are always together, it’s been forever since we actually caught up, so yes, it’s recent okay?”

“Who are you dating then?”

You say the first name that popped into your head. The person closest to you.

“Jeon Jungkook.”

“I don’t believe it.” His words come out harsh, and a part of you, the part that already feels like shit because Namjoon chose to be with Jennie a couple of years ago, lashes out in hurt.

“Why? Cause someone like him could never date someone like me?”

“Yes, Y/N. You guys are too different!” His voice was getting louder, and you knew that you had to do something in order to get him to believe your lie. So you do the only thing you can think of in your heated state. You take the several steps needed to cross the space between you and Jungkook, who looked up from where he was absorbed into his phone.

“You ready?” he asked, looking down at your small frame.

“Yeah baby, I’m ready.” Your hand snaked behind his head, and firmly grasping his neck, you leaned up on tiptoes as you pulled his mouth toward yours. You kissed him, and in his surprise, his free hands gripped your waist and he pulled you closer to him, before you were separating from him, slightly breathless. His grip tightened before it rested gently on your hip and you settled back onto your heels.

You see the back of Namjoon’s coat trail behind him as he disappeared out the doors, pulling them shut loudly behind him.

You look back up at Jungkook, whose fingers squeeze your sides quickly to grab your attention.

“You’re definitely gonna have to explain after that kiss... baby.”

—

Later that evening, you sat with Jungkook in his car. A black Mercedes Benz GT63S to be exact, with dark grey leather and a small bit of wood grain along the spacious dashboard. Your fingers trailed along the wood grain as you explained to Jungkook what happened, starting with the accidental drunk text messages, leading up to the reason behind your kiss.

“So now what?” Jungkook asks, looking sideways over at you.

“I don’t know. I feel so stupid.”

“Look, Y/N… I think this could be mutually beneficial.”

You meet his eyes, a look of incredulity across your face.

“Please explain Jeon.”

“Look, earlier when I stepped in and kicked hyung off set, Somin was already eyeing the way we were behaving. She may or may not have texted me about it. Of course, I told her we were broken up, so she didn’t need to concern herself with my business. And then, when we came back to set, she made a face when they asked me to text you to come back too.” He smirked.

“I may or may not have peeped it, and may or may not have used it to my advantage. Of course, you kissing me definitely helped.” He glanced down at his phone as it lit up. Once again a message from Somin tiled above 17 other messages from her. He had been actively ignoring them while the two of you talked.

“So I say that we date.”

“We what?”

“Date. I can teach Somin a lesson about how to treat me and you can keep hyung off your back.”

“Teach Somin? I thought she broke up with you?”

“It was mutual. But this always happens. And I for one am tired of the back and forth. So this can teach her that other people want me, and I can move on, or she can stop with the drama and we stop breaking up every other week.”

You nodded. It sounded like a feasible plan, and you told him as much.

“So it’s agreed. We’re now together.”

“Not so fast, Jeon… I think we should have a backstory, get some things straight, set some rules.”

“Rules, Y/N? You sure know how to take the fun out of it.”

You rolled your eyes.

“When did we start dating?” you asked, ignoring his snide comment.

“We got together… at the beginning of the week. Somin and I broke up 2 weeks ago, though we didn’t make it public because she always does this shit...” he trailed off, before smiling back at you. “So yeah, let’s say we’ve been talking here and there everytime me and Somin would break up, and then we went on a couple dates during that first week we broke up and made it exclusive this week.”

You commit this to memory, then pull out your tablet and begin jotting it down with the stylus.

“Okay, so this is new, but we’ve been on each other’s radar for a bit. I think that’s believable, especially since we’ve known each other just as long as you and Somin have. How do you plan to make her jealous? It has to seem real, you know?”

“Trust me, she already thinks this is real,” he nods to his phone again, now at 28 unread messages from Somin, “so I think something that we can do is start arriving together. Maybe do little things for each other that are cute coupley things, be seen together. Kiss at work. Maybe I can sleep over a few nights or you at mine?” He winks at you.

“I thought you didn’t see me that way, Jeon.” You looked down at the tablet, furiously scribbling what he said in order to avoid looking at him and showing the way he caused your cheeks to warm.

“I said I wasn’t in love with you, babe, not that I wasn’t interested in sleeping with you again.”

“Yeah, well that’s off the table Jeon. This isn’t real.”

He just wagged his eyebrows at you seductively, but you laughed and moved on from it, reviewing the list you wrote out.

You made sure to underline number seven so he could see it easily.

“And when does this end?” You asked.

“Um, I don’t know. I guess we just play it by ear. Let it be natural. Obviously not too early or too late, and it should be mutual. I mean, if Somin learns her lesson, we would obviously have to end things, but I don’t see that happening sooner than a month.”

“Okay,” you tilt your head, thoughtfully, “So we can re-examine this in like a month then.”

“So is this like a contract or what?” he jokes. “Want me to sign it?”

“Sure,” you say, playing along and offering him the stylus. He took it from your hand and signed his signature, and then handed you back the pen, gesturing for you to sign as well. You followed suit, a quiet chuckle as you saved the page to your tablet’s files.

“Wanna drive me home, boyfriend?”

—

Dating Jungkook was… interesting, to say the least. You were a little surprised when he texted you the next morning asking what your coffee order was, and you weren’t expecting him to be so punctual when he pulled up to your apartment. But as you and Yuna exited the apartment that morning, he was already parked at the curb, music a little too loud for the early morning transit, but you were thankful nonetheless.

“Why are you taking us?” Yuna asked in her very blunt manner. She, of course, had heard of Jungkook, more so due to your falling out with Somin, but Jungkook took her question in stride.

“Because I’m dating your sister.”

He handed you an iced caramel latte with a soft smile that you couldn’t help but return. Jungkook looked stunningly handsome, hair floofed to your desired preference and an all black outfit to match. His pants were the perfect fit to his well-toned body and the black bomber jacket gave him a bad boy edge that was softened by his doe eyes.

Yuna coughed, choking on her strawberry flavored poptart as you turned to look out the window. Yuna, seated behind you, hit the back of your seat.

“You’re dating him? And you didn’t tell me?”

“I wanted to be sure it was going to work out this time… He and his ex used to be on and off a lot and I didn’t want to tell you if they got back together.” You answer, mixing the truth into it.

“Ohhhh, I see. You a player Jeon? Gonna break my sister’s heart?” Yuna eyed him, pupils narrowed as they stared at him.

He cleared his throat, not expecting to have to defend himself against the small pitbull in the backseat.

“Not planning on it, Yuna.” Jungkook reached over and took your hand into his large one, interlocking your fingers before he kissed the back of your hand sweetly as he released the brakes and pulled off.

Walking into the BigHit building, Jungkook held the door open for you before placing his hand in the back pocket of your black skinny jeans as you walked to the elevator. You wore a black knit sweater that fell slightly off the shoulder, and you knew it looked like you two had coordinated outfits. His other hand held the strap of the backpack he had slung over his shoulder while you clutched your coffee and your bag.

You started to walk off towards your office once you made it to your floor, but Jungkook’s hand on your ass pulled you back towards him. He leaned down to your ear, whispering quietly.

“Where are you off too in such a hurry?”

“Um, my office… why?”

“Come with me to mine first, let me drop off my bag and I'll walk you back.”

“Oh-kay?”

Letting his pocketed hand guide you, you fell in step with him down the hallway. You passed several other people, including Jin, an actor signed to the company who was known for his gossip, who nodded their hellos to Jungkook before ducking their heads together or reaching for their phones. It felt like high school all over again. Jungkook removed his hand from the warmth of your ass in order to open his office door, to which he then pulled you inside. Closing the door, he backed you into it rather loudly. The windows in the door are frosted, but you knew that pressed to it like this, anyone who looked could see your outline against it.

Jungkook pushed his body into yours, lips following suit as his hands found purchase on your hips. He kissed you languidly, the mint from his toothpaste clashed with your coffee, though not unpleasant. You kissed him back, enjoying the feel of his soft pout as it glided to your neck. He wasted no time in latching on, suckling your neck for a few seconds before he pulled away with a loud smacking noise.

“I must say, we put on quite the show this morning. My roommate was out there, and he will definitely have everyone talking about our PDA.” He grinned, eyes still glued to your neck. “Once that hickey sets in, it will really be the talk of the town.”

You blinked, finally coming back to your senses. Of course. This was all a part of the plan. Jungkook stepped away from you, moving to put away his belongings in his office. You stepped away from the door, looking around as you willed your body to cool down. That kiss had been quite an experience, and you yourself had gotten carried away with the plan.

Turning on the spot, you notice all the different camera equipment lining the walls, the beautiful still photography of various buildings throughout the city, but the most surprising was a photo from the first year you had all met. The picture had you, Jungkook, Somin, Jimin, and a few other friends in it; smiles wide as you stood at the fairgrounds you attended, ferris wheel lighting up the sky behind you. You walked towards it, taking in how carefree you looked, arms wrapped around Jungkook’s waist and his arms thrown over your and Somin’s shoulders, who was making the peace sign with both hands at her eyes. Jimin was making a silly face, arm wrapped around Somin’s waist. Simpler times.

You moved on, turning to the small polaroid camera and you couldn’t help but grab it. Turning, you snapped a photo of Jungkook, who was caught off guard. You took the developing film from the camera and set it down on his desk as he smiled at you.

“Hmm, that’s a good idea. Let me take a few photos of you, I can place them around my office.”

You tried to reject his idea, but he takes the photos anyways, pinching your cheeks and tickling you until he gets what he wants. Finally, 6 clicks later, he stood next to you, facing the camera to the two of you before he said your name softly. You looked up at him, and he surprised you with a kiss. That 7th click captured a kiss, and he placed that one in the back of his phone case.

“You are such a… a lover, Jeon.” You say, pointing at his phone. He shrugged, ignoring your jab.

“It’s something Somin always wanted me to do… I never did though. So seeing this will piss her off.”

You nodded, understanding. Everything he did had a purpose for getting at Somin in some way, shape, or form. You chided yourself that you would do well to remember that.

—

Lunch was a whole new ball game. Used to sitting with Namjoon and Jennie, or some of your assistants, you were now eating lunch with Jungkook, who ate in the employee cafeteria. You followed his request to meet him there and stood in the doorway lost until you heard his voice call out to you.

Noting his waving hand, you wove through the circular tables until you reached the one he was at with Jimin, Taehyung, Jin, and Yoongi, a producer friend that you knew through Namjoon.

All of the seats were taken, but before you could stand there looking out of place, Jungkook scooted his chair out and all but pulled you onto his lap. Wrapping his arms around your waist, he nuzzled into your neck, breathing in your clean scented perfume and strawberry shampoo.

“Get a room, JK.” Yoongi said, face contorted with a mock look of disgust.

“What? She’s just so cute and warm.” His fingers drifted towards the hem of your sweater and disappeared up into the material, cold fingers pressed against the soft skin of your belly and you shivered with a giggle, pushing his ice box hands away.

“You’re cold as fuck, Jesus Jeon! Were you hanging out in a freezer?”

“You could say that...” Taehyung laughed while elbowing Jimin, and you raised an eyebrow at them, wanting in on the joke, too.

“He was reviewing pictures with us and our managers.” Jimin clarified, and you nodded.

“I take it that Somin wasn’t very warm?” You asked, leaning more into Jungkook.

“Not at all,” Tae disclosed, “she was very icy, had a lot to say about our dear JK over here, didn’t she?”

“Nothing we haven't heard before.” Jimin answered, and the two laughed, but you didn’t find it all that funny. Hearing that Somin trash talked Jungkook to his friends while working didn’t sound like the kind of person anyone would want to date.

“Well she can talk shit all she wants, she’s just mad he’s moved on.” You defended, and are surprised to hear a quiet ‘thank you’ just for your ears as Jungkook tightened his hold briefly.

“I really dislike that girl,” Jin said, “I for one will be glad to not see her trashy ass around the apartment anymore. You are a breath of fresh air, Y/N.”

You smile shyly at Jin, enjoying how well everyone seemed to have welcomed you into their group.

“So, Y/N, we were just talking about the party Yoongi was throwing. He and Hobi live together, and they’re throwing a small rager this weekend. You’re coming with JK, right?”

Oh, this was not something you were expecting. You hadn’t gone to a party with co-workers in a long time…

“Um—”

“Of course she’ll be there, she’s coming with me. Right, babe?” Jungkook’s doe eyes looked up at you and you couldn’t say no. It’s not like you had plans anyways. You nodded and smiled at him, and he leaned into you, lips seeking yours in a quick kiss. You feel your body react to it, like it had been doing since this started, and pulled back before he could turn it X-rated.

“Okay, seriously you two, get a room.”

—

Standing in the mirror in your bedroom, you turned from side to side to take in your outfit. As a head wardrobe stylist, you had a pretty good sense of fashion, but liked to stick to basic pieces and blacks, dressing up your look with delicate jewelry or layered pieces.

Tonight was no different. With the beginnings of winter creeping in, you wanted to be comfortable in the weather once the sun set. You had on black sheer leggings that disappeared into a cute black skirt with thin white lines that had a revealing thigh split. Your top was an asymmetrical design, having one long sleeve and turning into a bandeau style on the other side. You paired it with black velvet boots that had crisp white laces, then finished the look with a matching set of simple dangling skinny diamond earrings, bracelet, and necklace.

Despite this thing with Jungkook being fake, you wanted him to still feel proud to showcase you on his arm at this party. People were already talking about the two of you, and tonight would fuel the gossip even more. You were nervous of course, knowing who typically attended these types of parties, but Jungkook had assured you that he would keep you safe tonight.

The polite knock on your bedroom door had you turn your head to the sound, a tossed “come in” over your shoulder to who you thought was Yuna, but revealed a very handsome looking Jungkook, who was in his typical all black attire. You stood there, body warming as you took in his height, broad shoulders, and long legs.

“Wow.”

His voice was low, but his eyes looked like they sparkled as he took you in.

“You don’t look too bad yourself, Jeon,” you responded, reaching to grab your bag off of your bed.

Jungkook snapped out of the daze he was in and pulled his phone out of his pocket.

“Let’s take a photo for the ‘gram.”

You nodded; for a second you thought he wanted to have a photo of you because you looked good. Posing in the mirror, he pulled you close by your waist and adjusted his phone to capture both of you in the frame. He took a few photos, switching poses slightly each time.

“Hey,” he said, gaining your attention. You turned to him, shocked when his lips met yours. You melt easily into the kiss, hearing the camera shutter click several times as you tangled tongues, his hand sliding from your waist to cup your butt and pull you closer. You were unable to stop the moan from his action, and when he pulled away, lips a bit fuller and pinker from kissing, he quirked his eyebrow at you, paired with his signature smirk.

“Y-You messed up my lip gloss,” you fake huffed, turning away from him to rummage through your bag to grab your gloss and reapply. Your attempt to avoid him from seeing the way he affected you didn’t go unnoticed, but Jungkook kept quiet on it.

“It was worth it, these pics are hot. Plus, you taste good. What flavor is that?”

“Strawberry,” you mumbled, still feeling the heat from the kiss warm your neck and face.

“Strawberry is slowly becoming my new favorite.”

—

Yoongi and Hobi knew how to throw a party. The music was playing at the perfect level that you could still hear people talking to you, a variety of alcoholic beverages were supplied in ample amounts, and several games were being held in various rooms of their home.

Currently, you were seated on the couch with a few other women from the office. Unfortunately, one of them was Somin. Across the room, your ‘boyfriend’ was engaged in a game of beer pong against Taehyung and Jimin. They had challenged him solo, citing he was good at everything and didn’t need a partner. As you watched him toss the small ping pong balls into the same cup, you knew their concern was right.

“Y/N, you and Jeon?” Seline, one of the girls seated next to you, asked suggestively.

“Yea,” you giggled, the cup of something or other making you a little... giggly.

“Color me a little surprised. He’s like, such a social butterfly, and you’re...”

“Oh, Y/N used to be a social butterfly, but she thought she was too good for us back in college.” Somin piped up.

Her statement caught you off guard. Somin was once your best friend, but when she started dating Jungkook, she had distanced herself from you, not the other way around.

“I never thought that. Some people act differently once they start dating people though. I never changed.” You sat back with a huff, crossing your arms. She ruined the buzz the alcohol had given you.

Seline leaned closer to you, interested to hear more. The other’s seated nearby also tuned in with interest.

“Oh, you knew them in college?”

You nodded, and Somin got up and walked away from the couch, seemingly annoyed at the attention you were getting for being Jungkook’s new girl.

You told the brief backstory of your friendship, leaving out the obvious part of losing virginities and finding out your best friend confessed to Jungkook when you were on your way to do the same thing, but ending it on good terms, saying that it was just the process of naturally growing apart.

Seline nodded, and you saw her eyes widen as she looked past you. Following her gaze, your eyes narrowed at the view. Somin was all over Jungkook. You weren’t exaggerating; both of her hands were holding on to him as if she was too drunk to maintain her balance. She was falling into his arms and he was holding her, one of his large hands pushing her hair back from her face and a look of concern etched upon his own.

Two feelings hit you at once. Nausea at the sight of him looking so tenderly at her, simultaneous with a boiling fury of jealousy that it wasn’t you.

“Looks like Somin wants him back.” Seline snickered towards the other girls, and you stood up abruptly. You made eye contact with Jimin, who’s eyes were unnaturally large as he registered the scene before him.

Jimin was relieved that Somin interrupted the end of the game so that he could escape before he had to drink more, but he also felt annoyed seeing her all over Jungkook. Jimin had been glad when Jungkook told him and Tae that he was done with Somin; even more glad when he heard that Jungkook started seeing you.

Back in college, Jimin was the only person, other than you and Jungkook, who knew what happened between you two. Both of you had confided in him your actions and feelings for one another. Color him surprised when he found out that Jungkook was not dating you, but instead your best friend, Somin. He wasn’t sure what happened but soon after, you stopped being around as much and Somin was around all the time.

Watching Somin pretend to be too drunk to function and fall all over Jungkook made Jimin purposefully search the room for you. Watching you stand, drink clutched in your hand, Jimin had a feeling something was about to happen.

The drink you were nursing was downed in its entirety within a single swallow. You were now several drinks in, and you were feeling the alcohol start to hit as you stood up fast. Pushing your shoulders back, you walked over towards your ‘boyfriend’, whose back was turned towards you, and slid your arm around his waist.

“Heyyy babe,” you leaned into his body, staking claim on Jungkook as you stared daggers at Somin. She had taken a few steps back when you had approached, but now, seeing the challenge in your eyes, she stepped closer once more.

“Ggukk-ah, I don’t feel so well...”

“Min,” Jungkook stepped out of your hold, hands moving to cup Somin’s face as she feigned weakness in her knees. The level of concern in his voice let you know exactly how he felt. You scoffed, not believing Jungkook would behave this way in front of everyone. He was the one who had came up with this idea for ‘mutual benefit’ and here he was fucking it all up.

“She’s fine, babe. She can handle her alcohol.” You felt yourself growing hotter, the alcohol actually having an effect on you, as it always had. Your increasing body temperature only made you more frustrated.

“Seriously Gguk, I’m getting so hot...” Somin reached for the hem of her shirt, and in one fell swoop she had exposed the lacey bra she wore underneath. You could hear people talking over the sound of the music, taking in the scene of a shirtless ex making a brazen show.

“Jungkook!” Your voice is no more than a harsh whisper, but he’s so scandalized at Somin’s action, the protective boyfriend in him coming out to aid in shielding her body from onlookers, he doesn’t hear you.

You hate the sick feeling bubbling in your stomach, unsure if it's from watching your ‘man’ flirt with his half naked ex or if it’s from the alcohol not sitting right with you.

Throwing the scene one last look, you turned on your heels and headed off to the kitchen for a bottle of water, or perhaps, another cup of something stronger.

Walking past him and Taehyung, Jimin caught sight of the look on your face before you blew past on your way towards the kitchen and he knew he should warn his friend.

“Jungkook, hey.. Jungkook!” Jimin yelled, his voice louder the second time he called his name.

Jungkook had been leaning towards Somin, hands cradling her face as he continued to speak quietly to her. When he looked up at Jimin, his face appeared slightly annoyed at the interruption as he was taking care of her.

“What, bro?”

“Um, your girlfriend? Y/N? She just went into the kitchen and she looked a little upset.” Jimin said, his face trying to communicate to Jungkook what it looked like that he was holding his ex that way and his new girlfriend had stormed off.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake. Jimin, can you?” Jungkook gestured his head towards the kitchen and Jimin thought his eyes were going to pop out of his head.

“How about I take Somin and you go find Y/N? Your girlfriend. Remember?”

Jungkook paused for a millisecond before depositing Somin into Jimin’s arms. He made his way to the kitchen, where he found you engaged in taking shots with Yoongi, Hoseok, and Jin, the latter of which was shit talking Somin with a smile. When you felt his presence enter the kitchen, you ignored him, gesturing for your now fourth shot in as many minutes.

Sensing the tension, Yoongi decided against more shots, instead leading Hobi and Jin out of the kitchen, much to Jin’s complaints of having to be around the ‘trashy tramp’. The three headed back to the party, a bottle tucked under Yoongi’s arm as Hobi carried the shot glasses out.

“We were enjoying our new friend, JK. Stop keeping her to yourself,” Jin said with a drunken glare.

Sighing audibly, you turned to walk out of the kitchen but Jungkook’s grasp on your wrist stopped you.

“Hey, why are you ignoring me like this?” He asked, confusion tinting his voice.

“Um, maybe because you’re supposed to be dating me and you were too busy with Somin to remember you even had a girlfriend.” You said back harshly, spitting the words at him with such vehemence you wobbled precariously on your heels.

“Come here.” Jungkook said, dragging you behind him through the bodies in the hallway until you had made it into one of the unoccupied back bedrooms. Shutting the door, he turned to you as he dragged his hand through his hair. The action only made him more handsome, tousled hair falling gently to frame his face.

“Look, it’s... complicated with Somin right now.”

“I get that you’re trying to teach her a lesson, see if you want to be with her or whatever, but not at my expense. You said mutually beneficial. Making me look like your second choice and embarrassing me does not benefit me.”

During your speech, you poked him in the chest several times, the alcohol starting to take its effect on you. Stumbling slightly, Jungkook caught you to steady you, keeping his hands on your waist. The warmness of his palms felt nice as he helped keep you balanced.

“You’re right, Y/N. I’m sorry. Like I said, it’s complicated. We dated for a long time. I still care for her. She’s... been making this difficult.”

“Oh? Difficult how? By faking being drunk so you can take care of her?”

“She’s a lightweight, that’s not fake,” he defended.

You were once close enough with Somin to know that she was not a lightweight, since she had been drinking at parties since she was 14; her earlier interaction was indeed, all an act.

“Whatever, Jungkook. So what is she doing that’s so difficult?” you asked, cutting him a look of narrowed eyes until he answered you.

He walked backwards, tugging you gently along until he was seated on the bed. You stood between his parted knees, waiting patiently for his answer. Realizing you weren’t going to drop it, he rubbed the back of his neck gingerly.

“She’s, you know.. She still texts me all the time, saying shit and sending pics and stuff. She says she wants me back, but I just,” he looked up at you, his doe eyes unable to hide his emotions.

“I don’t know if I believe it. I want to. But she’s hurt me, and I’m tired of it. I want her to feel how I felt.”

Your ire towards him faded as he opened up to you. Cupping his face gently, you leaned in and rubbed his nose with yours softly back and forth.

“You’re amazing Jungkook. Until tonight, you’ve treated me like a princess the entire week we’ve been dating. But she won’t learn if you give in. You’ve got me now, okay? When she texts you, text me instead. Don’t entertain her. She’ll think I’m not enough for you if you keep responding, and that doesn’t show her you can move on.”

You had sunk into him the whole time you talked to him, and he shifted your body so you were now straddled over his lap, head resting on his shoulder. You yawned sleepily, the loss of the anger leaving you feeling the tired effects of the alcohol. Unlike Somin, you were a lightweight, and 3 shots was over your limit.

As you got comfortable on Jungkook, he thought over what you said, smoothing your hair carefully.

“You’re right. You always were so smart in school... ” Jungkook said, and you nodded your head on his shoulder in agreement, humming an affirmative.

“Let’s get you home though, you’re halfway to passing out anyways.” Pulling out his phone, he ordered an Uber. He held you like that, your strawberry scent surrounding him until the Uber driver was outside. His hands gripping you under your thighs, he stood up and carried you out of the party, nodding bye to his friends and hosts of the party.

Placing you into the Uber, he climbed in after you and you curled into his lap, seeking his warmth in your drunken half-slumber. Jungkook chuckled, noticing the way his chest reacted to the action but ignored it. This was an arrangement, you seeking him out wasn’t real, and your anger earlier wasn’t jealousy, he told himself. You were worried about being embarrassed. He still loved and wanted to get back with Somin, right?

As he looked down at you in his lap, enjoying the weight of you pressed against his body, he wasn’t so sure.

“This the correct address, sir?” The Uber driver asked, verifying with Jungkook once he shut the SUV door.

“Yea, both of us are headed there.”

—

The weekend passed by fast. Waking up at Jungkook’s place Sunday morning had been a little shocking, but his bed was soft and clean, and smelled of him. You had snuggled deeper into the sheets until he woke you up to go get breakfast and get his car from Yoongi’s place. He detailed to you what had transpired to you being in his bed, expressed that he had not taken advantage of you, per rule number 7, plus the basic concept of consent, and promised to take you home as soon as Jin was awake and could take the two of you to go get his car.

He gave you some clothes to change into, and while you weren’t surprised to find he had jeans to fit you, neither one of you asked or shared the obvious: they were Somin’s. At least the shirt he gave you was his, and you also stole a hoodie to wear. December may have only just started a week ago, but the cold was pervasive.

Breakfast with him was fun. Getting to know Jungkook again was just as exhilarating as it had been the first time, during that first year at BHSMA. He had changed, but in a good way. More mature, but still playful. An adult who was a hotshot photographer, but still humble and considerate. How someone could be built like that and have such a big soft heart was beyond you.

The trip to get his car was slightly awkward, as Jin, Jungkook’s very nosy roommate, commented on how bad drunk sex must be with Jungkook if you were able to keep so quiet.

“Somin was always so loud, I swear she was exaggerating. No one’s dick is that good; sorry JK.”

Once Jin dropped the two of you off at Yoongi and Hobi’s, it ended up turning into hanging out with them for a bit, talking about work and your relationship with Jungkook. Hobi swooned with oohs and ahhs while Yoongi cringed, faking disgust at such a cute story, as was his trademark.

Jungkook apologized once the two of you escaped to his car, for both Jin being cringey, and for staying longer than anticipated with Yoongi and Hoseok, but you weren’t mad. You enjoyed meeting his friends and getting to know them. You were only a little concerned because Yoongi was also friends with Namjoon, who worked in the same department as him.

Jungkook turned to you before you climbed out of the car, not wanting to say goodbye just yet, but unable to think of a reason to get you to stay. Afterall, the relationship was fake.

“Hey, thanks for your advice last night.”

“Honestly, I barely remember what it was, but if it helped you, I’m glad.” You smiled at him, and he had to blink a few times to remember what else he wanted to say.

“So, um—I was thinking we could go on, like, a formal date Monday? After work? Monday should be a chill day. I know the comeback is planned for January, so going out sooner than later is best, right? Get it out of the way? That way we won’t forget, and we won’t be too busy with work to try and squeeze it in, and—”

Jungkook knew he was rambling, feeling nervous despite it being you, someone he had known for several years now. For fucks sake, he’s seen you naked. He felt his cock twitch and internally scolded himself. This was not the time for remembering the way you felt beneath him, the sweet sounds he had pulled from you as he learned your body, shared with you in giving each other your virginities.

When his cock twitched again, he took a deep breath and tried to focus on your answer.

“You okay, Jeon?” you asked, noticing he had zoned out slightly.

“Yeah... ” he responded, shifting as if uncomfortable.

“Well, I said I would love to go on a date with you. What did you have planned?”

“It’s a surprise. Just dress for the weather.”

You nodded thoughtfully, a small smile gracing your face as you gathered your purse and stepped back out of the doorway of his car to shut it. He rolled the window down, smiling back at you.

“Can’t wait,” you say, standing outside his car on the sidewalk through the rolled down window, waving your fingers at him cutely.

Jungkook’s signature smile spread across his face as he winked at you just before he pulled off, turning his music up loud as he whipped his Benz out of your complex.

—

Now sitting at your desk, you clicked through the selected shots that Jungkook emailed you of the photo shoot from last week as you reminisced on the weekend. You were supposed to be checking the outfits, detailing the different designers for the credits. But your thoughts kept drifting to Jungkook, and what should have easily been a 15 minute task took 45.

Finally sending the email, you stood to stretch when a loud knock announced a visitor. Walking to the frosted door of your office, you opened it and revealed a large bouquet of tiger lilies.

“Delivery for Y/N Y/L/N,” Kim, one of your assistants sing-songed as she walked into the room.

“Where did you get this? And why?” You searched the flowers until you found the card inside.

“I’m not supposed to give any details other than to read the note!” She pranced away, a smug smile on her face for knowing the secret you wanted to know.

Opening the envelope, a small polaroid fell out, fluttering to the ground. You picked it up, noting the image of a small park nearby. At the bottom, in Jungkook’s neat writing was a time. 2:30PM. Glancing at the clock, you see that the time listed is in roughly 15 minutes, so you gathered your purse, plucked a flower from the bouquet and headed out to meet Jungkook.

Walking into the elevator, Namjoon suddenly entered just before the doors shut, trapping you inside with him.

“Why are you avoiding me?” He asked. You studied him, momentarily at a loss for words at his ambush.

“Joonie, I—I’m not avoiding you. I’ve just been busy...”

“Too busy for your best friend? Jennie left me, and now I feel like I’m losing you too.”

Hearing his voice crack as he mentioned his ex hurts you more than you let him know. In all of the panic of the secret sex journal being released and fake dating Jungkook, you had forgotten what Namjoon had been going through.

“I promise, you’re not losing me, Joonie. You’re my best friend. I’m sorry that I haven’t been acting like it. I swear, I have been busy.”

“Yeah, busy going to parties with your new boyfriend. I saw him carrying your wasted ass out of Yoongi’s house.” Namjoon sounded a little irritated as he spoke.

“Listen, it’s complicated.. Can we talk about this later, please? It’s not a conversation for the elevator.”

“Okay, where are you going? I’ll go with you.” The doors opened and you both stepped out, Namjoon following you like a lifeline.

“Joonie, I—Look, I’m going on a date with Jungkook, I’m sorry!” you halted your steps and explained to him as a look of hurt flashed across his face.

“You know what? Forget it. Hit me up when you remember your best friend, if I’m even that.”

Namjoon walked away from you, ignoring you as you called after him. You sighed, giving up as he disappeared around a corner of the lobby, guests and coworkers looking at the exchange with interest.

You rubbed your temples and took a deep breath before braving the cold to walk to Ttukseom Park.

The walk was surprisingly pleasant. Despite the temperature, the sun was warm on your face whenever you were able to evade the shade along the sidewalk. It may have been the very beginnings of winter, but the scenery was anything but the cold melancholy you tended to associate with this time of the year.

The grass was vibrant still, and as you made it to the spot that matched the small photo you still had clutched in your hand, you noticed how the butterfly art installation along the wall of the J-Bug Cultural Complex glittered in the sunlight seeping in. Jungkook was seated on a bench right underneath the art with his trusty camera hanging from his neck, a picnic basket next to him.

“This is beautiful,” you said in awe, taking in the entire view. Jungkook followed your gaze, humming his agreement before picking up his camera. You heard the shutter of the camera several times. You looked over to him glancing at the small screen on the device before adjusting the lens and taking several more.

“Have you never seen this?” He said as he stood and grabbed the basket. You stood as well and followed him, falling into step beside him as he walked out from the shade and into the grassier area.

You shook your head no. “Don’t really have the time I guess. I’ve always wanted to explore the J-Bug though; Namjoon said the museums all along the Hangang are amazing.”

“I’ve taken photos at several of the murals nearby, they’re some of my favorite locations actually.” He smiled at you, and you can’t help the way your heart squeezes. He nodded his head to an area that had a decent amount of sunlight to combat the winter chill.

“Yea, I remember seeing some of them in your office. You’re really talented Kookie, I remember how passionate you were about photography even back then.” You helped spread the blanket he produced from the basket and once seated you leaned back on your palms, eyes closed.

Jungkook looked at you, taking in the way the midday sun made you glow, how pretty your lashes looked leaving shadows across your content cheeks. He couldn’t hold back the smile that took over his face upon hearing you use the endearment he hadn’t heard since that night so long ago.

“Ah, yeah, but my photography wasn’t that good then.”

“Stop being so humble, the photos you took were amazing, even then.”

You opened your eyes, catching him staring at you, and you felt yourself grow self-conscious.

“What? Is there something on my face?”

“Oh—uh, no sorry, it was just the sun—you know, lighting and all.” He gestured to his camera.

“Ah, I guess the talented eye never rests. Though I don’t know why you would want pictures of me,” you laughed and Jungkook tapped your knee in reproach.

“You’re a pretty good subject, don’t downplay yourself.”

You nodded, looking in the basket to hide the way your cheeks had warmed at his comment.

“Seriously, Y/N, I used to want to take photos of you all the time back then... you should’ve seen my camera roll. It was embarrassing. Jimin used to tease me all the time.” Jungkook helped you set up his small spread of food and you used the meal as a distraction.

“Ooh, did you prepare all of this?”

“Ah, some of it,” he rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly. “I had some help from Jin hyung.”

“It smells delicious.” You took the proffered chopsticks from his large hand and dug into the bowl of japchae before placing it on your rice to gather for one bite; Jungkook followed suit.

The rest of the lunch date went incredibly well. Jungkook was just like you remembered him to be, except he was more filled out, and a little taller with a jawline that could cut glass. But his humor, his compassion, his deep thoughts that led you to fall for him all those years ago were still painfully there. Spending more time with him one on one did nothing but show you that the feelings you once had for him were still easily accessible.

As he led you back to the office, his hand swinging yours between your bodies, you couldn’t help but wish this was real. How nice it would be to just pretend that Jungkook really was yours, allow those creeping feelings to spread like spring, blooming across your chest until it was vibrant and unforgettable. You couldn’t imagine what it would be like after; after when you were single again and Jungkook had either gotten back with Somin or moved on to someone else.

“What are you thinking about?” Jungkook squeezed your hand. You hadn’t even noticed that you were not only back at the office, but standing at the door to your locked office.

“Oh, sorry. Honestly, that lunch date was just so nice… It felt good to get out and do something different for a change.”

“Oh, well yea, I remembered you used to like stuff like this, I figured you probably still did.”

You nodded, hope blooming.

“Take a look at this post, let me know if it’s okay.”

He handed you his phone, and you admired the way he had caught you off guard, a photo that looked like it could be moving, the way your hair frames your face as you looked longingly off into the distance. The caption was simple. “It’s not about where you go or what you have, it’s about who you’re with along the way.”

“It’s perfect.”

“Okay, post it then. And post a few more pics of me on your page too? I’ve been posting and tagging you...”

If you didn’t know any better, you would think that Jungkook sounded… upset? You nodded as you clicked the post button, and as it loaded, the phone vibrated in your hand. Thinking it was a like or a comment on the image of you, you glanced at it. His phone had locked by this time, and instead of seeing notifications for Instagram, you saw a message notification instead.

Handing him back his phone, you push down that blooming sensation. It would be foolish to think Jungkook was upset that you hadn’t posted him as much as he had posted you. Clearly he must’ve spent time with Somin after he dropped you off yesterday.

“You got a message. Umm, I’m gonna finish up here and then head home, you don’t need to wait for me. See you tomorrow?”

You wanted to get away from him desperately. Jungkook looked at you, confused at your sudden shift in mood.

“I thought I was driving you home? Jin said he was staying out late tonight, I figured we could hang out for a few—”

“We’ll see! There’s still so much to do for the album release.” You leaned up and kissed his cheek chastely before unlocking your office door and all but disappeared inside of it.

Jungkook stood there, staring at your closed door for a few more seconds before he felt his phone buzz in his hand. Checking his notifications, he saw a series of texts from Somin.

Looking around confused, he noticed Somin standing across the office area, a deadly smirk on her face as she waved her phone at Jungkook. All Jungkook could do was sigh. Somin wouldn’t leave him alone long enough to sort out his thoughts, and now she was sending purposefully misleading texts? Jungkook didn’t know how to explain to you that what you saw was untrue.

You clearly believed it.

—

Jungkook gave you two days of space before he decided to track you down. He always hated that Somin would know he was upset (typically because it was her fault) and immediately pounce on him, forcing her company upon him and not allowing him the ability to forgive and move on. He wanted to give you that time, so after two days, Jungkook felt that it had been long enough, and the two of you should reconcile whatever misunderstanding there had been.

You posted a photo with him yesterday, and from the caption you wrote it appeared like you had a fun time with him on Monday despite the way you left him standing at your office door.

The image you posted on your Instagram with Jungkook was a candid shot; he hadn’t realized you had taken a photo. While it brought about that warm feeling in his chest seeing the photo appear in his feed, it didn’t clearly depict his face.

Instead, the focus was on your fingers intertwined. Jungkook’s profile could be seen, blurred from lack of focus, but it matched the caption you had chosen so well. “Even if someone shakes this world, please don’t ever let go of this hand you’re holding...”

Motivated, Jungkook made sure to be bright and early at your door ready to drive you and your sister.

You weren’t expecting to see the flashy Benz outside of your apartment. Yuna was excited to not have to take public transportation, leaving you behind as she all but ran to the passenger rear door.

“Morning JK! We missed you these past few days.”

“Ah, sorry about that, I had to be at the office way earlier; didn’t want to make you guys wake up even earlier than you already do.”

Yuna waves off the apology and you finally followed; feet moving across the pavement until you’ve climbed into the car and buckled your seatbelt.

“Morning princess,” Jungkook says, leaning towards you and pecking your lips. You were caught off guard, not expecting him to be so lovey, but you returned the kiss, a double peck that you started and continued on as the traditional way you greeted each other.

“Morning.”

“Didn’t sleep well?”

“Yea, been a bit out of it these past few days...” You trailed off, not wanting to talk about it in front of Yuna. Catching on, Jungkook turns up the music and shifts into drive, pulling off towards the University for Yuna.

The drive to the office isn’t too long from the school, so once Yuna was out, Jungkook wasted no time in asking you to talk.

“So, can we talk about Somin?”

You huffed out a sigh. It was too early in the morning to deal with the Somin issue, but you nodded, allowing Jungkook to breach the topic.

“I know you saw her message. I want you to know that nothing happened. She sent that text because she saw us. She was doing the same bullshit she always does, part of the reason I don’t think she’s learned anything yet, like you said.”

You nodded, still not sure what to believe. He had no reason to lie to you, it’s not like you were actually in a relationship. He could go back to Somin anytime.

“I hate that you’re mad at me.”

You turned your body towards him.

“I—Look, I’m not mad, okay? Not at you. I just hate that Somin gets under my skin so much. That she’s a bitch to you. Neither of us deserve it, especially you.”

Jungkook reached over, encasing your hand in his.

“I’m learning that now. We’ve been together so long, I never noticed at first what she was doing. But I think subconsciously, it was making me resent her. And you really said some shit that had me thinking. And you’re right. I—I’m really glad to have you back in my life, Y/N. Having you in my corner has made all the difference.”

You looked down, eyes staring at the tattooed hand to hide the warmth on your face.

“After work, come over. Let me buy us dinner and we can hang out.” You felt his smile as he stared at you while pausing at the red light before your office, and you met his gaze.

“Okay.”

“Good, we need to make Jin believe we’re having hot, loud sex, since rule 7 prevents you from experiencing the real thing.”

He let out a shout of pain as you punched his shoulder.

—

Walking to get food was not the smartest idea for 3 reasons. First, because neither of you checked the weather. Second, due to number one, neither of you had an umbrella. So naturally, third, running in the rain while carrying takeout was almost a disaster.

And still, the two of you laughed the entire way, bag clutched in one arm while your fingers were intertwined between your sprinting bodies, one block left to get to Jungkook’s apartment. By the time he’s unlocked the door, you're both sopping wet, rain water dripping onto the floor of the entryway to the apartment. After getting the food situated to stay warm while you guys got cleaned up, Jungkook gave you a towel and led you to his bathroom.

You appreciated that he was such a clean guy, his apartment and subsequently, the bathroom was pristine, and he actually had a trashcan and stocked toilet paper, unlike some men you knew. He planted folded clothes for you to change into on top of the sink counter, and surprised you with a kiss.

“What was that for?” You asked, dazed.

“Practice.” He said with a wink, and he backed away, closing the door as he left you alone.

—

While Jungkook showered, you heated up the food, your mostly dried hair now up in a messy bun as you danced around his kitchen. His sweats were a little (a lot) too long, so you had rolled them up so you could avoid tripping.

A knock at the door made you jump, before you moonwalked over to the entryway, now clean of the rain water the two of you had trudged in. Thinking it was Jin, you didn’t check to see who it was and opened the door. You froze as you took in a young man that was not your ‘boyfriend’s’ broad shouldered roommate. Instead, doe-eyes similar to the man currently naked in the shower stared back at you.

“Oh, hey… I thought my brother lived here. Sorry about that!” The man stepped back, checking the number on the apartment again before his eyes landed on your shirt—or rather, his brother’s shirt.

“You’re not Somin...”

“Hi, and no, I’m not,” you laughed, “um, but this is Jungkook’s apartment.”

“Ahh, okay. I’m JungHyun. His older brother.”

“Oh! Come in!” You stepped back so that he could walk past you, and you led him into the living room once he had shed his shoes.

“Oh, did I interrupt dinner?”

“Oh, no we haven’t even started eating yet. No worries.”

The two of you sat down, and you tucked your feet up under your bottom, turning to face Jungkook’s older brother.

“So, I know who you’re not...”

“Oh, fuck, manners.” The look on your face is sheepish, and you smiled to cover your nerves. “I’m Y/N, Kookie’s girlfriend.”

“Oh, you’re the famous Y/N! Finally got you, did he?”

His words confused you, Jungkook had been with Somin since forever, when had he ever wanted you? Smiling to cover your confusion, you’re saved when Jungkook appears in the hallway, a loud laugh as he barreled over to his brother and all but jumped on the man.

“Hyung! What are you doing here?!”

“Oh, I finished that project at work early, so I’m headed to visit mom and dad. Staying with them through Christmas before the next contract at work starts.”

“Ah, it’s good to see you!”

Jungkook’s enthusiasm is abundant; it’s clear he loves his brother dearly and misses him. He pulled back from a hug and sat comfortably in the space between you and JungHyun, his palm resting lightly on your leg absentmindedly.

“So, I’ve met your new girlfriend. I must say you didn’t do her justice when you described her to me.”

You felt the blush creep across your face, and Jungkook also seemed to turn red, his fingers rubbing at the skin on his neck.

“Yea, seeing her in person is best.” He says awkwardly, and you can’t help but laugh.

“So? Does dad know? Mom is gonna be so excited. She hated Somin.”

“What?” Jungkook says at the same time that you say “Really?”

JungHyun nodded, sitting back into the couch comfortably.

“Yea, no offense, lil bro, but Somin was a bitch. Mom thought she was so fake.”

“Wh-why didn’t you guys ever say anything?”

“Eh, you know, cause you were in love or whatever.”

You get up and go to the kitchen, grabbing bowls and the last of the heated food, hoping to avoid being present for this part of their conversation, but still curious all the same.

“Definitely not.”

“Mmhmm, sure.”

“Seriously. I wasn’t actually in love. Or if I was, it faded. I think for a lot of it I was just… dependent or whatever. I thought it was love, sure. But it wasn’t; I know that now.”

“Ah, so Y/N showed you what love is?”

“She definitely cares more about me and my happiness than Somin ever has.”

You cleared your throat as you walked back into the living room.

“Ready to eat?”

Dinner with Jungkook and JungHyun is, in so many words, fun. They bantered and joked and you spend the time eating and laughing, enjoying your time with the brothers. You didn't even realize how late it had gotten, not until Jin waltzed into the apartment, noting the late hour for you all to be chatting so loud.

“Shit, Yuna messaged me an hour ago.”

“Just stay here. We can pick Yuna up in the morning when you go home to change.”

“Are you sure? Your brother’s visiting, I don’t want to be in the way.”

“Y/N, don’t worry, I’ll take the couch. I was going to anyway.” JungHyun smiled at you, and you nodded back. Standing up, you stretched, not realizing how tired you were. Jungkook took the opportunity to tickle your exposed sides, and you squealed, causing the brothers to laugh as you squirmed away from Jungkook, who didn’t let you get far.

“Let’s get you to bed, princess.”

Turning in Jungkook’s arms, you looked over his shoulder at his brother.

“Good night, oppa.”

Jungkook stiffened as JungHyun and Jin laughed, enjoying the way the youngest one reacted to your words.

“Ah, if it doesn’t work out between you two, hit me up.”

“Hyung!” Jungkook glared at his brother, not enjoying the joke.

“What? At least she wouldn’t need to meet our parents twice! She is coming for Christmas, right?”

The two of you looked at each other, a little thrown off by the question. The holidays were coming up, but you hadn’t discussed this far into the relationship. It wasn’t real after all, did you have to go through such lengths to teach Somin a lesson?

“I haven’t told mom and dad yet about her...”

“No worries, I text them ages ago. They’re expecting her for Christmas.”

Jungkook sighed, dropping his forehead to yours, so all you could see was his eyes staring into yours.

“Is this okay? Do you wanna, you know? Meet my parents?” Jungkook’s voice was low as he whispered the question.

“I—Yes.”

The look on his face when you agreed was beautiful, a scrunched-nose smile that is reminiscent of a bunny. You couldn’t help but smile back, lost in the mahogany of his eyes.

“Are you guys over there kissing when I’m waiting for an answer?” JungHyun broke the tension filling the air between you and his brother.

Jungkook smirked before capturing your lips with his own, a breathless kiss that lasted only a couple seconds before he pulled away to smirk at his brother.

“You can tell mom and dad I’ll be bringing her home for Christmas.” With those words, Jungkook whisked you down the hall and tucked you into his bed before climbing in behind you. Wrapping his arm around your waist, he pulled you closer to him. His hands skimmed your body before he began tickling you again, a squeal leaving your mouth. You retaliated, hands attempting to tickle him before he pinned you to the bed, and the two of you began to wrestle for a bit.

You were unaware of how sexual the wrestling sounded; his headboard hitting the wall roughly and the two of you grunting and groaning as you fought for dominance, some added squeals and moans when Jungkook decided it was a good idea to bite you in his quest for submission. Finally winded, you gave in, laying back on the mattress in defeat. Jungkook tugged at your sweatpants, removing them swiftly and throwing them onto the floor, his own joining the pile. He then grasped your face, peppering it with kisses.

You were about to ask him what he was doing, when someone knocked. Jungkook called out a ‘come in’ and his brother walked into the bedroom, his sights set on the bathroom.

“Don’t mind me, just gonna wash up before bed. It seemed safe to enter now.”

He disappeared into the bathroom as Jungkook continued to hold you, affectionate even after his brother was out of sight. Even if this relationship was fake, you could pretend in this moment that it was real, that Jungkook pulled you closer, not to fool his brother, but because he wanted to be close to you, that he was falling in love with you.

For one night, it should be okay to pretend it was something more, right?

—

The next two weeks passed by in a blur. Namjoon had basically confined himself to his studio at work, intent on avoiding you. Seeing you hand in hand with Jungkook seemed to bother him, and because you couldn’t tell him the truth (or wouldn’t), you left him to his own assumptions. He ignored all of your texts attempting to reach out to him, despite him saying he wanted you to let him know when you had time for him. This just made you more frustrated, and you were done trying to chase Namjoon, romantically or otherwise. When he was ready to behave like an adult, you would be willing to talk to him.

After telling Yuna about how you were asked to go home with Jungkook and meet his family, you received a call from your own parents. Yuna had told them about Jungkook, and you were bombarded with questions until you too agreed to bring Jungkook home.

It took some discussing, but it was finally decided: the 23rd and Christmas Eve would be with your family, and Christmas Day and the 26th would be with Jungkook’s. You were a little worried that the parents would be able to see through your ruse, despite having fooled everybody else at work, but Jungkook assured you that it would be easy enough to trick his parents.

On the train ride to Daegu, you sat a few rows away from your sister, who had her headphones in as she watched the latest K-Drama she missed due to her busy school schedule. The ‘arriving soon’ message plays throughout the cabins of the KTX, and you figure it’s important to bring up your parents.

Turning to Jungkook, who was drawing on his iPad, you removed an airpod from your ear, pausing the music. You take a moment and admire his face, the way his jawline was so angular, the sharp planes of his cheekbones, the concentration held in his eyes.

“Like what you see?” Jungkook’s voice is teasing, but you still felt embarrassed at being caught staring at him.

“I just think we should talk about the next 2 days.”

“Y/N, listen. Parents love me. Despite the tattoos and long hair.”

“Cause you’ve met so many parents? You’ve been dating Somin since we were 20.”

“My friends have parents too, you know. Don’t worry. Just be like we always are and it’ll be fine.”

“Your parents may be easy to trick, but mine? They’re a bit more… scrutinizing. Plus, they’ve heard me talk about Namjoon, and probably don’t remember me talking about you...” you trailed off, a slight warmth subtly coloring your cheeks.

“So you used to talk about me?”

“Well, yea, first year, you know? I had a crush on you, so my mom heard all about it. Not about—you know, but I told her I thought we might date.” You buried your nose in your phone to avoid looking at Jungkook.

“You know, you never told me why you nev—”

Jungkook’s words were cut off by an attendant walking through the aisle, asking everyone to start packing up their belongings as the train would be pulling into the DongDaegu Station momentarily.

“My dad should be here to pick us up—Yuna!” Your sister turned to you, a smile on her face as she waved her phone.

“Dad’s here!”

The drive to the house was short, and you spent most of the time taking turns with Yuna filling in your dad on your life in Seoul. Your mom was busy in the kitchen when you arrived, and she shooed you all upstairs to your rooms. Unsurprisingly, your parents were having you and Yuna share her room while Jungkook would be across the hall in your room.

Your parents were more conservative, and while you were an adult and perfectly able to do as you pleased in Seoul, while under their roof, they wanted to make sure that you remained as pure as they could keep you.

Dinner that first night went well. Jungook and your dad bonded over sports, despite Jungkook not playing any team sports, he was still well-versed on the topic and joined your dad in watching a basketball game while you, Yuna, and your mom cleaned up after dinner and then sat in the sewing room.

Your mom asked you all about Jungkook, which she surprisingly did remember you talking about. It seemed you had her and your father fooled, but while you sat at her embroidery machine, she shared she was confused about the lack of presents you had for each other to open tomorrow night. Saying it was because you still had to wrap them and she would find them under the tree tomorrow was an easy enough excuse, and paired with a very real yawn, you excused yourself to get ready for bed.

Sleeping with Yuna was uncomfortable; she was a wild sleeper. Restlessness won over sleep, so you got out of bed and made your way downstairs to grab a bottle of water from the kitchen. Your parents were already in bed in their first floor room on the other side of the house from the kitchen and the stairs.

When you returned back upstairs, you noticed the light on in your bedroom, so you knocked softly.

“Come in,” Jungkook’s voice was subdued, and you pushed the door open gently.

“Hey,” you said, eyeing Jungkook’s lean, topless form as he sat at the edge of the bed. You never tired of the view when you would sleep over at his place.

“Can’t sleep?”

“Yea, Yuna isn’t the best person to sleep next to, flops around all night, hogs the sheets.”

You walk into the room, joining him on the bed. He’s swiping through images from the SeoulM8 shoots he’s recently done. You watched his finger move across the iPad leisurely.

“Ahh, sounds like you miss sleeping next to me.”

You scoffed, shoulder bumping into his.

“You snore a bit. And your body temperature runs pretty hot. I wake up sweating half the time.”

“Ah, not the first time I’ve made you sweat, love.”

You raise your eyebrow at his insinuation of your loss of virginity.

“Kidding, babe,” he jokes, locking his iPad and setting it down to charge on the bedside table.

“Can we go into town tomorrow? I want to do some last minute shopping.”

“Sure.” Jungkook yawned and you took that as your cue to leave so he could get some sleep after your journey across the country.

“Where ya going? I thought you couldn't fall asleep with Yuna?”

Jungkook pulled the covers back, making space for you to climb in in front of him.

“Well, yes, but my parents—”

“Sleep downstairs and wholly expect us to pretend to sleep apart but know that you’re going to sneak in here anyways because we’re madly in love.”

You had to cover your mouth to keep from laughing loudly.

“And how do you know that?”

Jungkook smirked, still waiting for you to get into bed.

“You’re dad told me. He also said we need to give him grandchildren, sooner rather than later.”

Stunned silent, Jungkook leaned forward and grabbed your wrist, pulling you towards him. He turned off the light and you climbed in over him, keeping him at the front just in case.

“C’mere,” he rolled over and pulled you to his chest, snuggling into you as he got comfortable. “We have to look madly in love. No funny business though. I know you think I’m irresistible, but we are in your parents house and must be respectful.”

You elbowed him in the rib, and settled into the comforting darkness of your childhood bedroom with Jungkook’s arm wound around your waist, holding you close.

——

Christmas Eve, in your family, is the night that presents are opened. As a child, this tradition was done in order to make room under the tree for Santa’s presents. As adults, your parents keep the tradition alive, instead putting stockings with 1 or 2 of the more expensive gifts for you to have on Christmas morning.

After shopping in town and spending time wrapping, you had finally placed a few gifts for Jungkook under the tree that Yuna was now passing out. You were surprised to see a couple gifts for you from Jungkook in the small pile you amassed, and when you caught his eye, he winked at you.

Yuna opened her gifts first, then you and Jungkook, where you saw that he gave you a matching jewelry set: necklace and earrings in a soft rose gold, a small cherry blossom bloom dangling from the small hoop of the earrings and from a small hoop on the necklace. It reminded you of your date at the park. The two of you sat under the winter sakura tree that day, the only blossoms that bloom twice a year, where you told him how much you loved cherry blossoms in passing.

“It’s beautiful, Jungkook.” You almost can’t believe it, but he just smiles softly at your gratitude and helps put the necklace on you. Your parents looked happy, enjoying seeing their daughter so happy. Jungkook was excited to see what you had gotten him; a special lens for his camera that he had talked on and on about purchasing soon. He was giddy, running upstairs to grab his camera, testing out the new lens on pictures of you and your family.

Once again, you found yourself in your old room, curled up with Jungkook, but this time you were unable to sleep. Rolling over, you faced Jungkook, who cracked one eye and peeked at you.

“What’s wrong, babe?” he asked, voice laced with sleep. You noticed how easily the endearment rolled off his tongue even with no one around to convince.

“I—the gift you got me,” your fingers fidgeted with the small cherry blossom on the necklace. “I hope it didn’t cost too much. You can return it once we break up if you need to.”

“Y/N, that gift is for you. For being such a great… friend. Helping me do this. I really think it’s working.”

“You deserve to be happy Jungkook. I’m glad you were able to get space long enough to work out how you feel, and that you’re working your way to being happier.”

“Yea, I think I’ve been much happier lately...”

You watched his tongue run along his lips, and you couldn’t help but train your eyes on the movement. He caught your eyes, his hands gripped you a bit tighter as the tension in the dark room grew.

“...much happier...”

You weren’t sure who moved first, you or Jungkook, but at that point, it didn’t really matter. The way your lips sought his, the way his hands pulled you closer, the two of you were acting on instinct. This kiss wasn’t for practice or for show, who was to know what happened here, in this room tonight, but the two of you?

You let out a moan as he dipped his head lower, tracing kisses from your neck to what was exposed of your collarbone. His touch is impatient, tugging and kneading, unable to stay still on your body. His scent alone, a musky vanilla scent, engulfed your senses and you wanted… more.

You threw your leg over his body, turning the two of you until you’re straddled on top of him, able to press your core down onto his very firm cock. His boxers and your sleep shorts are the only things holding it back from assaulting you, and you’re annoyed that they’re in the way. Reaching down, you slide your hand roughly into the waistline of the boxers, fingers gripping him.

Jungkook groaned into your neck, the feel of your hand as you palm him building the craving he had for you. He wanted you. Not just physically. But you had those stupid rules, and he couldn’t just break them. He respected you more than that, and falling in love with you? Well that wasn’t part of the plan.

Jungkook slows the way he’s kissing you, slows the way he was thrusting into your hand and pushes you gently off of him and back to your side of the bed. You’re both panting, barely able to catch your breath as he pulled your back to his chest and held you close.

“We’ve got a long trip tomorrow morning to Busan, babe. Let’s get some sleep.”

“Oh… okay?” You were so confused. You had never been turned down before, especially not when you were so far into the act, practically ready to pull your panties to the side and ease him into you. You were throbbing, body aching with want, and you knew he was too; could feel the hardness as it nestled in the dip between your cheeks.

You felt him kiss your head, followed by a soft double peck to your neck, and not 10 minutes later his breathing slowed as he drifted off to sleep.

You, on the other hand, laid awake, thoughts running wild.

——

Christmas morning you had an early breakfast with your family before opening stockings. Your parents had only a couple of weeks to prepare for Jungkook, but they had prepared a stocking for him as well; your mom embroidering his name onto it and stuffing it full to the brim.

You were surprised at the gifts; a couple boxes of polaroid film, a bag of banana kick chips, individually packaged egg snacks, and colorful candy canes. Yours were similar as well, a small collection of sewing items for designing, and your favorite snacks. Your mom ruffled Jungkook’s sleepy-head hair as he offered his thanks to your parents, and you couldn’t help but feel your heart swoon at the sight. You realized something heartbreaking at that moment: breaking up with Jungkook once this was over would hurt more than just you.

Heading to Jungkook’s parents house was a different experience after the previous night. Yuna had obviously stayed with your parents, and would be catching the train back the same day you left Busan.

This was the first time the two of you had been alone since the rejection the night before, and you were doing your best to ignore the hurt feeling that would bloom every time you caught yourself dwelling on it. You focused on your phone instead, posting a few photos on Instagram so that you were sticking to your end of the deal. Somin would see these posts some way or another, and it would hopefully do what it was intended to.

Jungkook didn’t seem to think twice about the rejection, wrapping his arm around your shoulder and treating you like you were really together, a true couple going to meet his parents for the first time.

“Nervous?”

“A little. I’ll be meeting your parents, and we’re not really together,” you looked down at your hands, missing the way Jungkook’s face fell for a few seconds before working it’s way back to a smile, though it didn't quite reach his eyes.

“I think we’re together enough where it counts. No one watching us would doubt it,” he intertwined your fingers and gave it an encouraging squeeze, “sometimes even I forget you’re not my real girlfriend.” He laughed, and the sound leaves an ache in your chest.

“Same, haha...” You looked out the window of the KTX, ready to breathe the fresh air of the nearby sea. Jungkook released your hand and you both went back to your tasks, Jungkook reading emails and you sketching designs for work.

Jungkook’s parents treated you much like yours had treated Jungkook. Like you were the greatest thing to happen to their child.

“Y/N, you’re so pretty! Oh, thank heavens, we have a chance at cute grandchildren now.” Jungkook’s mom bowed her head in thanks to a higher power, and you couldn’t help feeling a little bad that you weren’t actually dating Jungkook. You would have liked to deserve the praise she was giving you.

“He looks so much happier, happier than we’ve seen him in a long time.” She smiled at his father and their eyes, so similar to their two sons, crinkled in the corners. JungHyun greeted you with a hug, and you reciprocated it.

“Hi, Oppa,” you teased, and Jungkook glared at you.

“Yah! That’s Jeon JungHyun to you,” he leaned closer to your ear in a mock whisper, “only I get called Oppa.”

JungHyun cringed back in mock disgust.

“I do not need to know about your ‘Oppa kink’ in the bedroom.” He shivered as he walked back to the living room, where he put away his laptop to make space for gifts.

Their dad, who you were very glad had not heard his eldest son’s comment, gestured to you to leave your suitcases in the entryway and come sit down.

“Kookie, pass out the gifts please. Your mom has been waiting all morning in excitement for you two to get here. We can have lunch after you guys get situated.”

Jungkook, ever the dutiful youngest son, began to distribute gifts amongst you all, while you handed your own gifts that you had gotten for his family out to them.

“You didn’t have to get them anything,” Jungkook whispered as he dropped a gift off for you from his own parents.

You gave him a pointed look, gesturing subtly to the gift.

“I did.”

He shook his head with a smile and continued until the space under the tree was empty.

“So, we just open them all at the same time! Save your thanks for the end, ready?” His dad looked at you, and you nodded.

“Let’s get it!” Jungkook shouted, and everyone laughed at his phrase as you began to open your gifts. You didn’t have many, one from his parents and JungHyun, and 2 from Jungkook. His family had given you a Pantone Color Swatch book that was easy to carry around, to help while on set working. It was very thoughtful, and you knew it could not have been cheap. You bowed deeply, on your knees and forehead to their floor as a show of your gratitude and respect.

They motioned for you to sit back up, waving off your thanks as if it was no big deal for them to get this gift for you. You turned to Jungkook’s gift, eyes already threatening tears at their sincere treatment of you, and once opened, you did cry.

Nestled inside a satin lined box was a beautiful set of Dwikkoji, traditional hair pins, that came with a small card identifying them as from the Joseon era.

“Jungkook!” you gasped, sure that they couldn’t be real.

“Don’t worry. I didn’t have to pay for them. But they would look much better displayed in your office as our head fashionista then collecting dust in storage.”

You couldn’t hold back your feelings any longer. Acting on instinct, you tugged him towards you, wrapping your arms under his own and around his frame as you let your tears fall.

“They’re beautiful, Kookie.”

Jungkook reciprocated your embrace, his hand smoothing down your hair as his parents smiled at the scene in front of them.

“Ah, young love, remember when that was us?”

—

Unlike your parents, who wanted to pretend that the two of you were a modest young couple, Jungkook’s parents assumed that the two of you would room together. His dad had clapped him on his shoulder and congratulated him on bringing home such a fine woman. Apparently in the two weeks that JungHyun had been home, he had raved about you to his parents, showing pictures from your social media accounts of the two of you together, as well as your fashion talent. Jungkook too had talked on the phone to his parents, you came to find out, which was why his parents were so enthralled by you, despite only dating Jungkook for a short time.

Lunch was fun. Spending time with the Jeons was full of laughter. His family was like him, generous and kind hearted, and you enjoyed spending time with his mom in the kitchen making cookies for dessert.

That night you went out for a drive to look at Christmas lights, before you all stopped off at the town center where they had outdoor ice skating set up. Jungkook had his camera with the new personalized strap you made him (yay fashion classes!) around his neck, taking photos of you and his family as you glided across the frozen water. You spent an hour there before heading home to warm up with hot cocoa and Christmas movies. You found out that this was their tradition every year, and it made you happy to know they wanted to share it with you. Even if it was only for this one Christmas.

Having showered first, you traveled down the hall to get water from the kitchen while you waited for Jungkook to finish his. His family had a one level house; His parents’ room was located on one side of the living room and kitchen, while Jungkook and his brother’s room was on the other side.

You heard his parents talking at the table and you slowed down, resting the back of your head on the wall as you heard them say your name.

“Oh, honey, Y/N is so darling! I haven’t seen him this happy in years.”

“He looks so in love with her.”

“Well, remember, he used to have the biggest crush on her.”

“But that was years ago. They were what, 20? And somehow he chose Somin?”

“Sometimes, people aren't ready. Now, they’re older. Better chances of them working out. Oh, honey, I hope they work out. She would be such a cute daughter in law.”

“I know, but don’t pressure them. Let them realize how in love with each other they are on their own.”

“Do you think she loves him too?”

“I don’t have a single doubt in my mind. I saw the way they were together.They’re in love, whether they realize it or not.”

“Ahh, so we could have grandchildren soon? JungHyun seems like he’s never going to settle down... ”

“Aish, grandchildren? I’m too young to be a grandpa!”

Instead of interrupting them, you headed back to his room, mind racing with their words. Jungkook had a crush on you? They thought the two of you were in love? Daughter in law? Jungkook chose that moment to come into the room, towel wrapped low around his waist as he checked his phone and you couldn’t look away.

“You’re starting to drool there, babe.”

You swallowed and looked away, grabbing your hair and running your fingers through it to put it into a bun on your head.

“I just uh—I wanted to talk to you about the contract.”

Jungkook, who was facing his dresser where his suitcase was opened up, froze. His eyes sought yours in the mirror, his reflection giving away nothing.

“Oh? What, uh, what about it?”

“Well, our parents seem to like us together, I mean, they’re talking about grandkids, and well, I would hate to break up so soon after having met them. I know this was only supposed to go on until you figured out what to do about Somin, but if it’s alright with you,” you look away, twisting your fingers in nervousness, “I would like for us to continue to date.”

Jungkook’s mind was racing. He understood what you meant. Your parents seemed to love him, discussing future visits for the holidays and his family had been no different. And thinking about ending the contract? Well, he had already been thinking about doing that. So he could date you, for real. Somin texted him while he was in the shower, upset about missing Christmas with his family. Jungkook thought that it would bother him, his first holiday without her, but he realized he couldn’t care less.

Somin treated him like a prize to be toted around and shown off. He was good for bragging; his face, body, high paying job, it all granted her status. She had no ambition to grow within the company, still a one act manager after graduating as an interning manager’s assistant. But you? God, you were different. You had ambition, you didn’t care about what Jungkook could provide for you, and you listened to him, to his dreams. You were thoughtful, appreciative, and everything you had done was to help him be happy. Even fake dating, while it benefitted you as well, you had gone above and beyond for him.

You stood up, walking closer to him where he was lost in his thoughts.

“Jungkook?” you intoned, your fingers softly settling on the back of his shoulder, waiting for his response.

“I think, yeah. I think that would be a good idea. My parents and brother love you.”

Your heart soared. He wanted to continue this. Not go back to Somin right away. He barely brought her up this whole trip. You felt giddy, hopeful that maybe one day, this could be something more.

“So then, it’s settled.”

Jungkook turned around, catching your hand before you could drop it back to your side.

“I think we should reexamine that contract, but tonight, I’d really like to say fuck it.”

Jungkook stepped into your space, and in a heart’s beat, he had ensnared your lips, his arms pulling you closer to him. Your own arms snaked up his body, hands pulling his head closer to you, your fingers playing with the wet strands at his nape. His kisses were fervent, lips almost rough as he pressed them to yours before he was swiping his tongue across the opening of your mouth, seeking entrance.

You groaned as you arched your back, seeking to deepen the kiss as you pressed higher on your tiptoes, wanting more of him. His palm skimmed your back down to your butt, where he applied pressure and lifted you with brute strength. You pulled away with a gasp, not expecting to be lifted up. He just looked at you with pupils blown, one eyebrow raised suggestively as he carried you to his bed.

“I think we should practice making ‘grandchildren’ for them.”

He set you down, long enough to grip the hem of your shirt before he pulled it over your head. His eyes moved to your chest, and he closed his eyes as he sighed in defeat.

“You’ve been keeping this from me?”

“You’ve seen me naked before,” you remind him, but he just shook his head.

“Years ago, Y/N, and let me tell you, my memory didn’t do you justice. I think I need a reminder.”

You throw him a suggestive look, knowing that you’ve both had some experience with sex since your shared first time all those years ago. This time, there was no fumbling, no nervous laughter, or apologizing. This time, Jungkook was in command of his body, and of yours too. He rid you of your shorts, leaving you naked on his sheets as he dropped his towel.

You marveled at how his body had changed: the muscle gained and the chiseled jaw you loved to admire. Jungkook bit his lip and did the same to you, eyes roving along your curves, the way you weren’t shying away from his touch as his fingers trailed up your thigh.

“You’re beautiful, Y/N.”

You didn’t get a chance to respond, as Jungkook kissed you again, this time with less fervor, his body crawling above yours as he joined you on the bed. His hands touched you everywhere, fondling your breasts and your ass as he kissed down your neck, nipping the skin and leaving marks along your neck. You feel the ache as your wetness pools between your legs, and Jungkook’s growing member sits heavy where it’s pressed against your thigh.

“Jungkook, please—”

He nips a bit harder, the sound of you begging for him made him infinitely larger. He wanted to be in you, but he didn’t want to rush it, wanted to savor you for as long as he had you under him. Kissing down your body, his tongue leaves a cool, wet trail and you writhe, ticklish to his tongues path to your core.

Parting your legs wider, he smirked at you from where he's sat on his knees, your thighs on either side of his gloriously naked body. Leaning forward, he never breaks eye contact as you watch his lips meet your mound. Gentle kisses pressed to your lips, and then his tongue is parting them, flicking your clit in greeting. Your head is thrown back, you know you should be quieter, but the onslaught of his lips and tongue as they pleasure your sweet spot has you reduced to base instincts only. And right now, they want Jungkook to know that he had better not stop.

You rolled your hips, seeking more, and he gives in, thick fingers immersing themselves inside of you. You clench, walls shocked at the intrusion but welcoming it all the same. He felt so good, and you tell him as much, so he continued to finger fuck you as he lapped up your release, carrying you through your orgasm.

He was so hard, cock throbbing as he kissed back up your body, and after spitting into your hand, you reached down to stroke along his shaft, palm twisting and gliding as he nuzzled his face back into your neck, quiet little moans rolling out of his mouth with each stroke. You made him feel so good, your body warm and soft as your smaller hand stroked his larger ego, in more ways than one.

Without preamble, you positioned him at your opening and lifted your hips, allowing him to feel how warm your walls were, waiting for him. He pushed up on his palms on either side of your head and the look he gave you was indecipherable before your own eyes shut; he engulfed his cock in the swollen velvet that was your cunt, buried to the hilt.

He had tried his best to prepare you, but every glorious inch stretching you out was a breath you needed to take in order to grow accustomed to his size. You counted nine breaths, then opened your eyes, taking in the trembling of his arms as he held himself back from pounding into you.

“Move, Kook, please,” you whine, and he wasted no time following your orders.

His hips grinded into you as he rolled them, angling himself to take you as deep as humanly possible. His pace started off fast, but soon he was slowing down, head dropped into the crook of your neck as your nails dragged red marks down his back. You rocked your hips in time to his thrusts, using your grip on his back as leverage to meet him halfway.

“You feel so good, so wet for me,” he murmured with each thrust, and you bit his shoulder, afraid if you didn’t gag yourself, you would say the wrong thing.

Everything about you enveloped him, your scent, your arms and thighs that were holding him close; he could barely think straight as he tried to get you to cum again before he got himself off. But you felt so good, tight clenches as your arousal gushed and coated his cock, he didn’t know how much longer he could last. Then you bit his shoulder, and he sped up his stroke, hips rolled in fast succession as your body jostled underneath him.

“Fuck, fuck, I’m so close baby,” you mewl into his ear, and he lifted his head up out of your neck, resting his forehead on yours.

“I want to watch you, don’t close your eyes,” he pleads and you try your best to keep them open, not closing them for long as the coil builds in your lower abdomen. He adjusted your bodies, lifted your legs up slightly which allowed him a deeper angle that hits your g-spot. Your mouth hangs open, a fucked out expression on your face and Jungkook loses it.

The first spurt of his hot cum sends you over the edge, and you're spiraling down, pussy contracting around his cock, milking him for every drop. You maintain eye contact, watching each other for a few seconds before you can’t help but close them, the pleasure too great.

Jungkook pressed his lips to yours as you both cum, using them to cage in the words he wanted to say, wanted to shout from the rooftops, but wasn’t yet sure you felt the same way.

——

Waking up in Jungkook’s arms, you felt sore. So sore, but also satisfied. You hadn’t slept this well in ages, and if Jungkook’s deep slumber and dead weight arm draped over your waist was anything to go by, he hadn’t either. You moved his arm slowly, headed for the shower, and let out a small gasp as JungHyun also exited his bedroom at the same time.

“Well, don’t you look... rested,” he trailed off, a look of knowing on his face.

Your face burned in embarrassment.

“Don’t worry, as soon as I heard little brother start to get a little… feral, I turned up my TV while I gamed. Parents didn’t hear a peep.”

“Thank you, oppa.” You bowed, gratitude seeping out of each of your pores.

“Now, those marks on the other hand,” he gestured to your neck, “might I suggest an ice pack for 20 minutes and then some really good makeup?”

You hurried into the bathroom as he laughed his way towards the kitchen. A minute later he knocked, passing you a small ice-pack through the cracked door.

“20 minutes,” he reminded you with a wink, and went back into his room with his cereal.

—

Saying goodbye to Jungkook’s parents after a late breakfast was tough. His mom cried, saying her baby son did not visit enough and that she would miss him. She also said she would miss you greatly, and that you better come back with him soon to visit.

It was tough to promise her that you would, knowing that there was a very real chance that you wouldn’t. This was fake after all. You had just agreed to extend the contract briefly, to get through the holidays and while Jungkook said ‘fuck it’ last night, with the rising of the sun came the clarity of the situation.

Jungkook behaved much the same, holding your hand and showering you with PDA, and while you reciprocated, you couldn’t help but feel like the magic of Christmas was over. Heading back to Seoul meant back to reality. You weren’t sure you were ready for that. For the first time in your life, you felt like you could see a future with someone, with him, despite the relationship being fake thus far. To be honest, it hadn’t felt fake since the night of the party.

The entire trip, all 3 and a half hours of it, you ruminated on last night and what it meant. You hated to admit that you had fallen for Jungkook, and had given up rule number 7 on a whim. For all you knew, he would be going back to Somin at the end of this.

In his own little world, Jungkook too couldn’t stop thinking about you and what last night meant. He wished he had said to forget the contract all together, instead of just for the night. He wanted to see if you felt the same way, but he wanted to be sure that his Somin chapter was done. He needed to see her and make sure he was over her, and not just using you as a rebound. You didn’t deserve that.

Jungkook’s body language had you on edge, as his foot tapped incessantly as the train got closer and closer to Seoul. You placed your hand on his knee, a reassuring move for both of you.

“Jungkook, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing. I just—Somin messaged me.” He had been thinking about it the whole trip back to Seoul, about how her messages didn’t affect him anymore. Before, he could barely go a few minutes before responding. Now, almost 18 hours had passed and he wasn’t bothered.

“When?” Your voice came out sharper than intended, and Jungkook flinched back from you.

“Uh, last night, right after I got out of the shower.”

Your brain began to connect dots that you didn’t want it to.

“Oh,” you respond, trying to keep your voice light. Jungkook was confused at your reaction; usually you were jumping to keep him and Somin apart. This response felt like you didn’t care, like if he met up with Somin, it wouldn’t impact you at all.

“She just… I think that you’re right. The plan is working and I’ve been happier than I’ve been in a long time. But I guess there’s that part of me that needs to talk with her, express how I feel. I want to be sure.” Before I confess my feelings to you, he thought.

“Right. Well, that was the goal, getting you to figure out what you want.” You turned your head away from him and deeper into the neck pillow, trying to get this conversation done and over with before he said something that really broke your heart.

“I know. I guess I’ll meet up with her when we get back? The sooner the better I guess.”

“True, the faster you meet with her, figure it all out, the faster we can move towards breaking up.”

Jungkook freezes, but you don’t notice, too focused on not looking at him.

“At breaking up?”

“Yea, that was the plan right? We date for a couple more weeks, then break up, so you can get back with Somin, if she’s changed, you know?”

“You—”

“Hey Jungkook? I’m really tired, can we talk about this later?”

Jungkook stared at your form, taking in how closed off you were from him. He didn’t understand what changed. He sat back, finally replying to Somin’s text, agreeing to meet at a cafe by his apartment later that evening.

—

Jungkook saw you home, worried the entire ride to your place about what was happening between the two of you. He thought everything had been going well, and after last night, he didn’t know how he could have possibly fucked up. He hoped you were just PMS-ing, like Somin used to always blame moods like this on.

You let him carry your suitcase upstairs to your apartment and when he leaned in for a kiss, you kissed him back, but he felt it was almost out of obligation; your sister was sitting on the couch watching the two of you. Jungkook paused at your door, but you had turned away from him, so ready to be alone. So he let you close the door in his face, let you have time to yourself.

Jungkook got to the cafe, eyes searching for the long black hair of his ex. When he approached her she smiled at him. Jungkook saw the way her face lit up, the way the smile graced her pretty face, and felt nothing for it. Sitting down, a cafe worker took their drink order and left them alone.

“So, you said you wanted to talk?” Jungkook asked, fidgeting with his fingers drumming on his knee.

“Kookie, I miss you.” Somin leaned toward him, chest pushed out in her off the shoulder zebra print dress. Her black heel nudged against Jungkook’s leg, rubbing it suggestively.

Jungkook moved his leg out of reach and sighed.

“Somin—”

“Minnie.” She pouted, red painted bottom lip jutting out after she cut him off to correct her name.

“Somin. I—I’m sorry.” Jungkook felt awkward. Here he was, sitting in front of his ex, who was undoubtedly a gorgeous woman. But after all they had been through—all she put him through—and all the healing you had done to his heart, he realized he had fallen out of love with her a long time ago. “I know you had hopes of us getting back together.”

“Well, of course we’re getting back together Kookie. We’re made for each other. Since we were 20! I know this thing with Y/N is just revenge. You wanted to make me mad, teach me a lesson,” she said as she reached out and grabbed Jungkook’s hand in hers, “and I have learned it. Christmas without you was so sad. I had no one to go out to all the holiday parties with.”

Jungkook shifted in the metal chair. “Look, Somin—”

“Why do you keep calling me that?” she interrupted again, and Jungkook let out a loud sigh as he tried to maintain his cool.

“Because, I’m trying to tell you that I—”

“Jungkook! Somin!”

The loud yell of the barista reading out orders cut Jungkook off for the third time, and he groaned, running his tattooed hand over his face. With a huff, he stood up, walking through the crowded cafe to get the drinks so he could just tell Somin the truth; he may have initially wanted to teach her a lesson, but he ended up being the person who learned something from it. He was in love with you; wanted to spend more holidays like the one that just passed, with you. He truly didn’t feel anything for Somin anymore, other than friendship.

While Jungkook was up, Somin noticed his bag was open, a fancy camera strap hanging out of it. It was embroidered; the phrase ‘you shine brighter than anyone’ apparent once she pulled it free from his oversized black backpack. Somin threw a glance over her shoulder at Jungkook, seeing him still busy, so she stuffed the strap into her purse. Grabbing her phone, she sent a text to Taehyung.

Jungkook set down the drinks before sitting down himself and commanding the attention of his ex.

“Look, Somin, I just—I’m sorry.” Jungkook looked down at his hands before making eye contact with her. “I don’t see us getting back together. I—” he paused, taking a deep breath before he spoke his truth, “I’m in love with her, Minie. I know that’s not what you want to hear, but I want to be happy. I want you to be happy with someone who feels about you, how I feel about her.”

Somin stared at Jungkook before she laughed. He was unsure of the emotions she was actually feeling; perplexed by her reaction to what he just told her. He didn't want to be with her anymore, and he wasn’t looking for her to beg, but he expected a little more... sadness? Push back? Once she was done laughing, she leveled her gaze at him.

“You, you’ve barely been seeing her Jungkook. How can you love her?”

Jungkook took a sip of his drink, gathering his thoughts before he answered her. The judgement that laced her tone made him angry, but he didn’t want to give Somin the upper hand. He wanted to be an adult about the situation. In retrospect, he hadn’t been honest with Somin when she first confessed to him, and you deserved for him to share that honesty now, even if it was coming 5 years later.

“I think—I think a part of me has always loved her. Since that first year. Don’t get me wrong, I think I loved you too and at some point we just… I think we just broke up and then made up too many times because it was easy… familiar. I love you Minie, and you were a huge part of my life. I’m just not IN love with you.” Jungkook leaned forward towards Somin, placing his hand over here, hoping that she would see and feel his sincerity and his benevolence.

“Wow, I—You’re serious?” Somin’s voice was quiet as she questioned him. “I guess I didn’t think I’d be starting the new year without you.”

Jungkook watched as she slid her hand out from under his and placed it in her lap.

“Please, be happy for me Minie, and when you’re ready, I’ll be happy for you too.”

The loud chime from Somin’s phone went off. Jungkook watched as she looked at her screen, eyes growing wide.

“Shit, an emergency with Tae.” Somin looked up at Jungkook, her face soft and apologetic.

“Koo—I mean Jungkook, I was just surprised is all. I—I am happy for you and Y/N. Or, I guess it’s more like, I will be. I’m sorry, I have to run, but thank you for meeting with me.”

Somin gave him one last smile, as if showing she was throwing the towel in, before she stood up and left the cafe in a hurry. Jungkook watched her as she dashed off, disappearing down the sidewalk towards the nearest bus stop. He thought the meeting had gone well, or at least better than expected. Maybe Somin has grown up, he thought to himself, unaware of the way she made off cunningly with his gifted camera strap, using a text that confirmed the time for the next morning’s meeting with Taehyung as an excuse to escape.

——

After closing the door in Jungkook’s face, you retreated to your room, claiming that a headache was creeping in from the long train ride. Your sister nodded, engrossed in her latest K Drama. You rolled your suitcase into your room, stripped your travel clothes from your weary body, and entered your shower.

Free to do as you pleased, with the water to cover the sound, you wept. How foolish you felt, letting Jungkook close to you once again, only to see him rush off to Somin. It was almost like what happened 5 years ago, when you had gone to his dorm room and found her confessing. Just like then, Somin was winning Jungkook; once again he had slipped through your grasp.

That night you texted Jungkook to tell him you would be going to the office early and that he needn’t pick you up.

Jungkook was relieved upon seeing your text. He had spent the better half of the evening and the morning tearing apart his apartment. He had called his parents, his brother, and overturned his luggage onto the floor. He could not find the camera strap you made him.

He knew that he shouldn’t have taken it off the camera, but he spilled a bit of leftovers from his mom on it while on the train and removed it to make it easier to clean once he got home.

Unfortunately, it was nowhere to be found.

Jungkook was frantic; he knew that you made it for him that night you sat in the sewing room with your mom and sister while he was with your dad. Your mom had an embroidery machine, and so you snuck in there under the premise of bonding time and worked on it. He loved the phrase you chose for him; it reminded him of your love letter to him, the way you had written about him making you feel as beautiful as a night sky. “you looked at me as if the galaxies were reflected in my eyes...”

Dumping out his black backpack for the umpteenth time, Jungkook sifted through notebooks, film, wrappers from snacks, a small hygiene bag, and loose photos. He doesn’t know why he continued looking through the same places. It’s not there. Glancing at the clock, he realized he would be late to the Monday morning meeting. Giving up and putting everything he needed back into his bookbag, he stepped over the mess and headed out to his car.

Walking into the conference room, everyone looked tired from their holidays, but with the New Year around the corner, it was important for everyone to attend before January. SeoulM8’s comeback was fast approaching, and making sure everything was moving smoothly was imperative to whether the next holiday was spent relaxing or spent stressed out.

Stirring your coffee, you walked through the propped open door and maneuvered your way over to where your assistants sat. Kim, the same one who brought you the tiger lillies several weeks ago, smiled at you as she slid you the stapled packet she printed out from the email.

“I think we’ve done all our parts, the photos Jeon emailed over have been approved by the boss, and we double-checked the designers they are wearing. I think all that’s left is to get final approval on the outfits for their comeback shows and interviews during comeback week.”

You nodded, sipping the still hot coffee as Kim spoke quietly about the role you played for SeoulM8, eyes on the printed email. It didn’t help the way you could feel the mocha eyes of a certain ‘missing in action’ best friend burning into the side of your face; or the way the empty seat across from you saved for a certain ‘boyfriend’ of yours had your anxiety on edge.

With 5 minutes left until the meeting commenced, you had done a pretty good job at tuning out all of the mindless chatter around you, that is until Somin’s nasally voice interrupted your response to Kim.

“Oh, this? It’s just a little gift for JK.”

“But you broke up? He’s with Y/N now...” Hobi said, cutting off a reply from one of the assistants sitting near Somin.

“But we dated for 5 years, he’s still important to me. I think he’ll love it.” She turned her back to Hobi, who tried to make eye contact with you. You looked down at your coffee instead.

When Jimin and Taehyung walked into the room, everyone quieted down and took their seats if they weren’t already, assuming Bang PD, the head boss, would be quickly approaching behind them. Before the glass door could swing fully shut, Jungkook sprinted into the room, out of breath.

“Oh Jungkook, here!” Somin stood up, making a big show out of handing him the small gift bag that had been on the table in front of her.

“Oh? Uh, thanks Minie.” Jungkook said, looking for the head boss. Bang PD was still missing from the room, so he grasped the colorful tissue paper from the bag and removed it in one swift pull. As the paper fluttered to the table, Jungkook’s eyes lit up as he took in the present.

“Oh my God, thank you!” Jungkook wrapped his arms around Somin in a huge hug, surprising everyone in the room watching, including you. Despite all of your negative thoughts about you and Jungkook’s future, seeing him react that way was unexpected and you felt your heart ache seeing him hold her in an embrace.

Sitting down, Jungkook turns to talk to Somin when you notice Bang PD walking down the long hallway towards the closed glass doors.

You turned to the front of the room where SeoulM8 was seated next to the only empty chair in the room, fully intending to pay attention, but Jungkook’s movements directly across from you pulled your attention away. When you see the embroidered strap that YOU had given to him for Christmas a mere 2 days ago slide free from the bag, you see red. Before Bang PD can enter the room, you’ve already stood up.

Both Namjoon and Jungkook look at you, followed by everyone else’s gaze; it’s too late to hide the tears that fall down your face.

“Y/N, I can explain—” Jungkook said as you make your way around the table toward the door. He grabbed your wrist to stop you, but you pulled it from his grasp.

“Save it, Jeon. It’s over.”

You leave the meeting, walking brusquely past your boss with your head down. You type out a quick text to him as you take the elevator down, apologizing for leaving and saying that an emergency came up. Bang PD responds within a few moments.

Back in the conference room, Jungkook attempted to call you, but you sent him to voicemail twice. Giving up, he grabbed his bag, fully planning to follow you, when he saw Namjoon stand before he could. Throwing a dirty look at Jungkook, Namjoon shook his head at him before quickly following you out the door.

You haven’t gone far, making it only to your office where you gathered up the rest of your belongings when Namjoon burst in.

“Y/N,” he sounded a little out of breath, probably from running to the elevator and then to your office, you assumed, “I—”

“Save it, Joon. You didn’t want to talk to me these past few weeks, so I don’t know why you’re here now.”

“Because I realized I love you.”

You stopped packing up your laptop, eyes slowly moving to meet his.

“What did you say?”

“I said I love you. I didn’t realize it until you started dating Jungkook, but I do.”

You shook your head back and forth, unable to hear or deal with his feelings right now.

“No, Namjoon, you don’t. You just miss Jennie.”

“Y/N, listen, I should’ve realized it was you. It’s always been you. You can’t honestly tell me that you’re in love with Jungkook?” Namjoon said this last part with contempt.

Tears fell once again, and you dropped your hands uselessly to your side.

“I do, Namjoon. I honestly love him.”

“Well, I hate to say I told you so, but-”

“Then don’t,” you voiced, cutting him off with an edge to your voice.

“You and Jungkook? Please. Anyone can see how different you are. You and me, though? We’re better for each other.”

“How different we are? Why? Am I too out of his league? Not pretty enough?”

“No, that’s not what I’m saying, and you know it. You guys just aren’t compatible—”

“And how the fuck would you even know?! You saw us together at what? One party? And then at work? What do you even know about our relationship, Joon?! You’ve been angry at me ever since you found out!”

“Because you and him together isn’t right! It’s supposed to be you and me!”

“Oh please, Namjoon. If Jennie hadn’t taken that Japan job and dumped you, you wouldn’t even be here right now. I wouldn’t have even crossed your mind. This is a pointless conversation.”

You walked towards the door, bag over your shoulder and laptop case in hand. Namjoon blocked the doorway, and behind him you could see nosey coworkers watching the interaction.

“Move, Namjoon.”

“Not until you talk to me.”

“No,” you go to shoulder past him, and you were able to back him up into the common area outside of your office. He grabbed at your shoulders, holding you still.

“Namjoon, let go of me!” At this moment you hated that you had dressed up for this meeting; a tight a-line pencil skirt and heels that don’t allow you the movement that you needed.

Before you can shimmy from his clutches, he’s leaning forward, his lips meeting yours in a kiss. In shock, you don’t move at first, not until your free hand shoved his shoulder and pushed him a step back.

“I can’t believe you.”

The look you gave him could burn the sun, and this time you were able to push past him; the elevator getting closer and closer as you approached. You saw Jungkook, motionless, at the platform in front of the elevators; his eyes low in a glare aimed at Namjoon, who had followed you in your haste to escape.

“Hyung, you need to leave her alone.”

“Me? I’m her best friend. I would say you were her boyfriend, but we all heard her break up with you when she left the room crying.”

“That was just a misunderstanding. So like I said, leave her alone.” Jungkook stepped forward to his full height, chest to chest with his hyung, who prior to watching him force a kiss on you, he respected a lot. The tension on the floor was thick. You were mere steps from freedom, from Namjoon and Jungkook, when his words stopped you dead in your tracks. A misunderstanding?

Did he not understand what the words ‘It’s over’ meant? That the contract, the relationship between the two of you, however real or fake, everything was null and void?

“It wasn’t a misunderstanding, Jungkook.”

Big, confused, doe eyes turned to face you. “Y/N, please let’s just talk about th—”

“Why don’t you take your own advice and listen to her, Kook. You could never treat her how she deserves.”

“Why don’t you go mind your own business Namjoon.” Jungkook bit back, fists clenched as he shook, holding back his anger. He just wanted to be alone to talk to you, but Namjoon was making it difficult.

“She is my business, she’s my best friend. She’s nothing to you now. Though, knowing you, that’s probably the reason she broke up with you. I bet you didn’t treat Somin right, and now you fucked up with Y/N. Can’t do anything right, can yo—”

Jungkook’s fist flew through the air before you could tell either of them to stop talking about what they don’t know. The sound of Namjoon’s jaw connecting to his fist echoed through the large room, and the crowd of bystanders yelled out in shock at watching a full on fight start in the building.

You yelled as Namjoon tackled Jungkook around his middle, tackling him to the ground before he reared back his fist to punch him back.

“Namjoon, stop, STOP!” you yelled as Jungkook flipped Namjoon onto his back, swapping places as he took the liberty to return the blow. Putting down your laptop and bag haphazardly, you rushed closer. Leaning down, you grabbed at Jungkook’s arm that was cocked back to throw another punch, yelling his name frantically.

“Jungkook, Kookie, PLEASE STOP!”

The two men looked at your face, their chests rising and falling rapidly as they tried to catch their breath. Jungkook’s eyes were dilated. As he took in your state, he seemed to come back to his senses. He started to climb up off of where he straddled Namjoon, pinning him to the floor, his hand reaching up towards you from where he was kneeled on the ground.

“Y/N, I’m sorry baby, please just talk to me.” Jungkook’s bottom lip was split, a small bit of blood leaking from the cut. His cheekbone was red; you knew a bruise would form there. Namjoon too tried to sit up, leaning on his elbow as his split eyebrow spilled his blood down the side of his face. He too would be sporting a shiner for the next week or so.

You almost reached for Jungkook, returned the gesture to cradle that beautiful face, but you couldn’t. Him fighting Namjoon changed nothing about the fact that Somin had the present you gave him, that she brought it to him as if she had given it to him, let alone the response he gave her when he saw it. Backing away, you almost tripped over your belongings before you thought to collect them, and then dashed into the elevator, leaving the two men bleeding on the floor as the doors shut, cutting off the view.

——

Dealing with the aftermath of the fight was not something you thought would be so difficult to do.

Working remotely meant not being able to turn off your phone so you didn’t miss any important calls or texts. Unfortunately, it also meant you had to deal with the barrage of texts and calls from friends and co-workers wanting to know about the fight.

According to Jimin, the only person other than Kim who you were responding to, the whole office heard about the fight. With Jin being Jungkook’s roommate, and of course being the resident gossip, news traveled fast that the two men got into a fist throwing match over you. This only had you double down on avoiding messages, calls, and not posting to social media. It was unlike you; as a fashionista who worked with models and artists like SeoulM8 and Kim Seokjin, people looked to your accounts for updates.

Your silence was killing Jungkook, the one person who had not given up. Jungkook hated to not give people time, but he had the feeling like the more time you had, the faster you would slip from his fingertips. You stared at your phone, watching his name light up on the screen as a picture of the two of you, set as his contact photo, taunted you with memories.

All you could do was lay there, curled up on your bed in your pajamas for the second day in a row, hating yourself. Hating the fact that you allowed yourself to break your rules, that you let Jungkook into your heart for a second time, only to watch it all come crashing down because he couldn’t let go of Somin. What did Somin have that you didn’t? How was it that she always won?

5 years ago you lost Jungkook to her, after giving him your virginity, something he knew was a big deal, as he had given his to you in exchange. And now again, you had so foolishly fallen into bed with him again, and he ran back to Somin. Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice? You were already blaming yourself heavy for this one.

Another day passed before you finally pulled yourself up out of bed long enough to shower and get dressed in a different set of sweats. A knocking sound at the front door had you tense up. Luckily, your sister answered the door, able to field away anyone who wanted to see you.

Creeping silently to the door of your bedroom, you cracked it open and listened to see who was there. From the angle you could see your sister, but not who was outside, nor could they see you. The warm tone was instantly recognizable, and your eyes widened as your sister looked back at you. Shaking your head profusely, she denied entry and shut the door, walking over to you. You back away from the door, letting her in as you sit on your bed. Crossing your legs, you grabbed a stuffie and clutched it to your chest.

“Hey, can you tell me what happened? Why are you hiding out at home and not answering Jungkook’s calls? What’s going on?”

You sighed, taking a much needed breath before you recounted the whole story. You told her about the journal entries being sent out, about how Namjoon had confronted you leading to you lying and saying you were with Jungkook, who came up with the plan to fake date each other until the Somin and Namjoon issues calmed down for both of you.

She listened intently, shocked to hear that it was all fake, and she told you as much once you finished sharing about the fight that ensued on Monday.

“Sis, that man loves you. I could see it when he came to the door. I think you should talk to him.”

“No. It’s all my fault all of this happened anyways. If I hadn’t been drunk and sent those messages out, I would have never had to lie to Namjoon and start all of this.”

Yuna squirmed in your computer chair, her mouth twisted as if holding herself back.

“Actually, you didn’t do that.”

“What are you talking about Yuna? I saw the messages. I took the photos the night before because I wanted to upload them to an online journal platform.”

She nodded her head, wringing her fingers in her hand. “I know that, but you didn’t send them… I did.”

You stared at her, anger silently rising as you waited for her to continue.

“I waited until you got into the shower. You know I read the entry to Namjoon, and so when you got into the shower, I used your phone and sent a message to each guy who’s name was both in the book and in your phone. I wanted you to have someone, instead of always spending your evenings at home, bored.”

“Yuna, you knew that I did not want Namjoon to know, he and Jennie had just... and I was trying to protect him, do you see what this did?!” You threw the plushie at her angrily, standing abruptly.

“I can’t believe you would invade my privacy, you could have ruined my career, if one of those messages had been sent to the wrong person, god damn it Yuna! You’ve ruined my fucking life!”

Yuna was crying, but she set the stuffed bunny back on your bed gently before she got up and headed to leave your room. Pausing at the door, her hand poised on the door knob, she turned back to face you.

“I didn’t ruin your life. You finally had a life. You’re the one running away from it now.”

With those parting words, she left your room, closing the door and leaving you alone with your thoughts.

After Yuna left you, she went to her own room, where she scrolled through social media to find Jungkook. You already blamed her, though she felt like it was misplaced, but she felt like she might as well do something to help fix the situation. Finding Jungkook’s IG account from the photos you tagged him in, she followed him. When he returned the follow, she messaged him to contact her.

It didn’t take long for him to respond, and she asked him to meet her out somewhere. Agreeing on a local park, Yuna changed her shoes and left you moping in your room, a note on the counter that she was headed out.

Sitting on the bench, it wasn’t hard to spot Jungkook. His tousled black hair peeking from under his black beanie and the familiar black jacket was easy to spot against the white snow that had recently fallen, but like a Seoul snowfall, it wouldn’t stick for long. Carrying a hot cocoa for him and herself, Yuna held it out to him before she sat down, sipping on the warm drink.

“Yuna, I will say I’m surprised you reached out to me.” Jungkook’s usually bright voice was tinged with sadness as he looked over at her.

“I have something to tell you.” Yuna started, and Jungkook’s nerves grew.

“I was the one who sent the journal entry to you. Not my sister.”

“Oh? Okay. Thank you for telling me I guess.” Jungkook took another deep pull from the drink, letting the heat fill his body as he swallowed.

“I mean, I sent it because I didn’t want her to grow old and be alone. Every night, coming home bored to drink wine with her baby sister and watch reruns on Netflix? I wanted her to fall in love. And she did. With you.”

“I don’t think so, Yuna. She wasn’t in love with me.”

“She was; she still is! She told me everything that happened. About how dating you was all fake. But I know it wasn’t. Not for her. And not for you. No one acts the way you two acted. I know my sister; when she told me what happened, I knew that she was hurt because she’s in love with you. Like, still in love with you. She just doesn’t believe you love her back.”

Yuna stared at Jungkook, watching the way her words sank in, waiting to confirm what she already knew: Jungkook was in love with you, too.

Jungkook’s voice was quiet when he finally spoke. “How do I convince her? That I love her back?”

“I wish I knew Jungkook. I wish I knew. But if you don’t do something soon, I think you’ll lose her.”

——

Friday was New Year’s Eve, and you had to put up with Yuna running around like a lunatic cleaning the apartment to ring in the new year. You had finally resigned yourself to forgiving her for sending the journal entries. It was over and done with, and there was nothing more to do. Monday, you would be back at work like nothing happened, and didn’t want to go into the new year holding onto this year’s anger or sadness.

Yoongi, surprisingly, had reached out to you the day before about a party he was having to ring in the new year, and at first you didn’t want to go, but the longer you thought about it, you figured you should. Why spend the new year at home, where your sister would relentlessly tease you until she left. She had her own plans this year, going to a classmates to drink and watch the fireworks; so if you stayed home, you would be alone.

And you were tired of being alone. Sleeping in, you didn’t get up to join your sister in cleaning until later in the afternoon, going through your closet, bedroom, and bathroom.

You were scrubbing your shower when you heard the doorbell, but your sister, ever the nosey one, yelled that she would get it, so you continued cleaning, forgetting that someone had come to the door by the time you finished cleaning the bathroom.

When you finally stopped cleaning for the day, it was close to 9 PM, so you decided to get ready for the night out at Yoongi and Hobi’s place. After about an hour and a half, you were dressed, makeup done, and ready for the party. You ventured out of your room, noticing a large blue hatbox on the kitchen counter.

“Yuna! What’s this blue box?” you yelled, and her reply carried from down the hall.

“A delivery, for you, from earlier!”

“Why didn’t you tell me?” you grumbled, cursing your sibling as you reached to remove the lid off of it. Inside was what looked like a photobook, a beautiful ombre of pinks and purples decorating the cover. Removing it from the box, you flip it open, noticing right away the neat handwriting that could only belong to one person.

Sighing, you carry it to the couch, where you read the inscription he penned inside.

“Right at this moment, I think of you.”

Flipping through the pages, you see he’s created a scrapbook of the past month spent together. Pictures of the two of you at work, the park, each other’s places, and visiting each other’s families. Pictures of you sleeping in his arms, candids where you aren’t even aware of him taking the photos.

Each photo is vibrant, in his style of catching the light just right as it caresses your face, and you’ve never seen yourself look so beautiful. He’s scribbled little notes here and there, of what he noticed or what was happening when he snapped the camera, and you can’t help but blush when you see a photo in there of you after the two of you had sex.

“I reach out my hand, and feel your breath. With eyes closed, before we know it, we’re together.”

Your fingers trace over the photo, where Jungkook’s face is, looking at you so lovingly as you sleep on his chest, the bed sheets from his childhood bedroom covering you both strategically so nothing indecent shows.

The last page has a handwritten letter, not unlike the one you wrote for him all those years ago, with a tiger lily pressed inside. You looked up the meaning of the flower earlier in the day when you found the large vase while cleaning. Please love me. With shaky hands, you held the photobook and began to read.

Y/N,

5 years ago, you thought you were in love. I can tell you with certainty that 5 years later I pray that you are, because I am so in love with you. The way you see me, I don’t think I’ve ever been seen before. My whole life I’ve been behind the camera capturing others. And somehow you have taken the camera from me and now I’m the one being captured and seen. And I love it. You make me feel like I’m not just made up of the same ingredients that make up the stars in the sky, you make me feel like the very galaxy reflected in your eyes when you look at me. You’re beautiful, and I, Jeon Jungkook, am so in love with you. When I say I’ve always loved you, that there is no start, so there can be no end: we are fated—destined; you are mine as much as I am yours. These photos are only a fraction of the way I see you, the many shades that make up who you are, how could I ever capture them all? Please know, I want to spend the rest of time trying. So in case you didn’t see it, or weren’t sure: I love you. I want to be with you. No contracts, just you, wholeheartedly as mine, and me as yours.

——

It was nearing 11 when you reached Yoongi and Hobi’s house, leaving the Uber driver with a confused look at the way you dashed out of his car. You could care less; the man you were in love with was inside that house, right now, and you would be damned to let him get away again.

Pushing through the crowd of bodies, you looked side to side, searching for the familiar black tresses, ears straining to hear his musical laugh or catch someone saying his name. Entering the living room, your eyes fell on the beer pong table, where Jimin and Taehyung were playing against Yoongi and Hobi.

Destination set on getting to that table, you wade through the throng of people with the obligatory happy new year. Some attempted to stop to ask you how you’ve been, fill you in on the latest office gossip, or inquire about the exact relationship status of Jungkook. Those in the latter category were met with major side-eye. Plastering a fake smile on your face each time, you finally shake the last of them, jogging the last few steps until your right on the edge of the game.

“Y/N! Glad to see you!” Hobi was his typical cheerful self, greeting you with his signature smile as he watched Taehyung try and line up his shot in the cups Yoongi just re-racked.

“Hey Hobi, Happy almost New Year! Have you seen Jungkook?” you asked, skipping straight to the point.

“Um, yea, he came by earlier to drop off a few kegs for us, helped us move the furniture, but he went home. Said he wasn’t really feeling like celebrating.”

Yoongi, who had just grabbed the ping pong balls before they bounced off the table, handed one to Hobi as he gave you a pointed look.

“Yea, looked pretty heartbroken all week, if you ask me.”

“Well, no one did Yoongi. Give her a break,” Hobi answered before turning to you, “he’s probably at home. You can get there before midnight if you get an Uber quick.”

Thanking him, you threw your arms around him and Yoongi in a shared hug before waving to the other two on the far side of the table. You had someplace to be.

Outside in the quiet, you requested an Uber, happy to see one not even 2 minutes away. Thankfully, Jungkook only lived 10 minutes or so from the guys. You hoped traffic would be on your side. You knew you were cutting it close; 11:30 was approaching fast.

The ride to Jungkook’s apartment gave you too much time to think. Those 15 minutes (thanks drunk pedestrians) on the car ride over allowed the nerves to settle in, along with the doubt and fears. What if he didn’t feel that way about you anymore? What if he just wanted to bring you the photobook as a goodbye?

Shaking the thought from your head, you took a deep breath before you climbed out of the car and into the hushed cold of the last day of December. You had never shown up to his place unannounced like this, so used to trailing him into his apartment. The closed door was daunting to you, but you didn’t have much time now.

Knocking louder than you needed to due to those pesky butterflies in your stomach, what feels like an hour is only 10 seconds or so until Jungkook is standing before you.

“Hi,” you said, breathless from the cold and from the sight of him after so many days apart.

“Hi,” he responded, looking just as mesmerized to see you at his doorstep, “uh, wanna come in?” Jungkook took a step back, giving you space to come in and you stepped forward into the welcomed warmth of his home.

The scene before you is not what you were expecting. Jungkook had been sitting in the dark, a half eaten pizza and a beer bottle on the coffee table, with his favorite blue and grey plaid blanket haphazardly cast aside on the couch; most likely from when he stood to welcome you.

Shucking off your boots, you walked into the living room, Jungkook silently trailing you.

“I—I’ve missed you.” His voice is low, as if afraid he would spook you.

“I’ve missed you too.” You turned to face him, the light from the paused Netflix show reflecting in his beautiful orbs. You took in his face, split lip mostly healed and the bruise faded along his cheek.

“I got your gift.”

“I’m glad.”

The conversation between the two of you was static, neither sure of what to do. The silence ticked on for a few more seconds before you decided to stop being a pussy.

“Did you mean it? What you said?”

“Of course I did.”

“I’m glad,” you repeated his earlier phrase, stepping closer to him. You placed your hands on his chest, solid muscles reacting to your touch as he subconsciously flexed them. “Because I love you, too.”

Rising on your tippy toes, you pressed your lips to his, your body relaxing when you heard the sigh he let out from the contact. His hands pulled you closer, deft fingers gripping you in all the right places as he deepened the kiss. He tasted faintly of pizza and beer, and smelled so strongly of his vanilla musk. You couldn’t believe how much he felt like home to you. Being in his arms felt right.

Bending slightly, Jungkook wrapped his arms under your thighs and lifted you up, never breaking the kiss. Hoisting you up, he carried you down the hall to his room, foot kicking the door shut behind him. So turned on by his show of strength, you rolled your hips down onto what was his growing length, seeking any friction that would help ease the ache between your thighs.

Letting out a groan, Jungkook’s hands guided your hips roughly to where he wanted you, lining up your sweet spot so you could grind on him better. Licking into his mouth, your hands tangled in the hair at the nape of his neck. A slight tug exposed more of his neck, where you planted markers of your territory as you continued rolling your hips in time to his movements.

“I want you.” The whispered words went straight to your core; hearing Jungkook’s voice break with need, need for you—you couldn’t get out of your clothes fast enough.

“Bed. Now.” You demand, and he laughs as he follows your directives, setting you down once he approached the edge of his queen sized mattress. You tug your jacket off, tossing it to the foot of his bed before peeling your shirt up over your head to reveal your bra to him. He doesn’t get to look too long; you’ve gripped the waistband of his grey sweatpants and pulled them low enough to free him from it’s confines. His cock sprung free, and, licking your lips, you switch positions with him.

With his back to the bed, you pushed him down, and he went easily. Pressing your hand to his chest, you lay him back as you bend at the waist, bringing your mouth to his leaking head. You lick the bottom of his shaft up to the slit, collecting the pre-cum with the tip of your tongue before you take the head into your mouth, swirling your tongue around the sensitive tip. Under your hand, you feel his abdominal muscles contract as he lets out a moan letting you know how good you feel as you take him farther into your mouth.

Speeding your ministrations, you hollow your cheeks as you slurp around the head, using your hands to massage the dripping spit along the exposed skin you can’t reach. His hands grip your hair creating a makeshift ponytail to keep it out of your face so he can watch you. And wow, does he love the sight of your lips wrapped around his cock, innocent eyes blinking coyly up at him while your mouth is stretched around him. Keep it up and he could cum too quickly in your mouth.

When your free hand traveled to his scrotum, he jumped, feeling an overwhelming sense of pleasure as his sack tensed up.

“Wait, baby, I don’t want to cum yet.” Jungkook panted, and you pop off of him with a lewd sound that filled the quiet of his room.

Tugging you towards him, he scooted back on the bed until his head was flush with the headboard.

“Strip for me,” he urged, and you did, undoing the button on your jeans and sliding them down until you were naked from the waist down. His eyes stared pointedly at your chest and you unclasped your bra, adding it to the growing pile of clothes the two of you had made. Watching as he shed his shirt before laying back fully, kicking his sweats free from his body, you climbed onto the bed, and he directed you farther up his body until he could maneuver your thighs to either side of his face.

“Jungkook—”

“I’ve wanted you like this for so long, baby, please.”

Giggling softly, you lowered yourself slowly and he wound his arms around your thighs until his palms were wrestling lightly on them. The slow caress as he drew patterns on your skin matched the same pattern he drew with his tongue, you realized once he had you fully seated. Gripping the headboard, you threw your head back, rolling your hips as his lips and tongue ravaged you, the sexual sounds of him eating you out creating more for him to drink down.

Curving your back to make you hunch forward, you adjust as the pleasure builds and you see his eyes, those bright galaxies staring at you as he pleasured you to climax and you tensed as the coil in your abdomen snapped, a mix of curse words and his name pouring from your lips as he worked you through it.

Placing your hands on his sweat laced forehead, you pushed to try and pull away from the overstimulation as he let out a laugh.

Scooting yourself down his body once he released you, you fell back and to the side of his muscular thighs, trying to catch your breath. You feel him moving, a low chuckle released as his hands grasped your wrists. Pulling you up, you see he’s now seated flush to the headboard, back against the soft grey padding. He guides your hips so that you straddle him, sitting your still sopping wet cunt onto his cock. Pressed against his stomach, he can feel the warmth emanating from your opening, and groaned, wanting to be inside of you.

Pressing his forehead to yours, his eyes meet yours as he intertwines your fingers before resting your interlocked hands behind your back at the curve of your ass.

“I love you.” His voice is strong, sure and confident in the words he says as he bares more than just his body before you. “I wanted you so badly back then, I want you even more now.” He presses a kiss to your lips, causing you to grind down on him.

He kisses down your neck, hands still holding you in position over him. “Want to be inside of you, baby.” He nips at your neck, making you gasp, and when you rock forward, he’s rocking his hips down.

The head of his cock presses against your core, and you settle back onto it, walls stretching to accommodate his girth. The two of you move in tandem, lips once again reunited in a raunchy kiss that only serves to turn you on more, sending enough slick between your lower lips to allow him to slip further into you until he’s bottomed out, a snug fit as the tip of his cock kisses your cervix.

Releasing your hands, his large palms hold your back to pull you closer to him as you swivel your hips, rocking so the shaft slips in and out of you in short bounces. You rock, arms wrapped lazily around his neck as you play with the wet locks of hair as you ride him at your leisure, just enjoying the feel of your bodies connected as one. Chest to chest, you can feel the speed of his heart beat; it matches your own.

“Can I go faster?” you asked, not wanting to go at a pace he wasn’t comfortable with.

“You can use me however you want, baby,” he replied, eyebrow cocked smugly as he gripped your waist tighter, “but please tell me I can cum inside.”

Nodding as you sped up, you bounced with more friction, his pelvic bone rubbing against your clit as you chased your high, fucking yourself on his formiddable cock.

“That’s it, fuck, baby, right there—” Jungkook’s moans, musical as he egged you on, brought you to your peak for the second time that night. Your walls clenched around him, and as your body froze, he took advantage of the moment to shift your bodies so you were on your back with your head to the foot of the bed. Bracing his feet on edge where his mattress met the headboard, he began to piston his hips into you, chasing his own high.

“Fuck, Jungkook, I’m gonna—again—” You can barely get the words out when your third orgasm is crashing around you, legs shaking from where they’re wrapped tightly around his narrow hips. Your release makes it wetter, and your swollen walls ache to feel his cum fill you.

“Gonna fill you up so good, baby, fuck a—baby into you, fuck, I want to see you carry my—my kid,” Jungkook’s cock is drowning in your essence, and hearing him talk about kids with you causes you to tighten around him, and he’s cumming, long ropes of his hot cum filling you until it’s seeping out around him as he continues to thrust indiscriminately, velvet muscle milking him dry.

Laying skin to skin in his bed, you laugh as the alarm clock numbers alert you to the fact that you had missed the New Year by 38 minutes.

“What’s so funny?” Jungkook asked, eyes alight as he takes in your smile.

“We missed New Year’s.”

“We didn’t miss it, we were simply enjoying our New Year’s kiss for longer than most.” He quipped back, fingers tracing patterns along your back. Your own nails were lightly scratching shapes into his chest as you rested your head on his shoulder. You spent the next 20 minutes of the first hour of the new year listening to him explain what happened with the camera strap, though you had already forgiven the incident.

He wasn’t sure how Somin had the camera strap, though he suspected she stole it from his bag at the cafe. Jungkook told you about the meeting, how it helped him see that you weren’t a rebound; he was in love with you and while it was obvious to him, a part of him wanted to be sure before confessing to you. He didn’t want you to think he was rushing into things to get over his ex. He also apologized for fighting Namjoon, saying he was worried that seeing him fight would change how you viewed him, change his chances of being with you, this time for real.

“I love you, Jungkook, in case you didn’t know.”

“I love you too, in case you didn’t know.”

“Hmm, but, I think we need to talk about children though, I think it’s a little too soon, despite our parents' ideas.” You giggled, and his cheeks turned red in embarrassment.

“It was just sex talk, we’re still just practicing, okay?”

Stretching, you roll away from his body, and he follows your body heat subconsciously, his body not wanting you far from him after almost a week of radio silence.

“Hey, get back here, you’re mine.”

“Oh am I?” you teased, staying just out of his reach.

He pouted, accent slipping out as he moved closer to your retreating body.

“Yes, you’re mine, no rules, no contracts; just mine.”

“ ‘m all yours, baby,” you mumbled as you rubbed your nose to his in an eskimo kiss as he gathered you up in his arms, “and you’re mine.”

UPDATE (5.18.21): 1st Prologue is Out Now!

BTW, ily ⟢ summary: Taking place in the To All the Men I’ve Fucked Before (TATMIFB) AU, this pre-story is the backstory to you and Namjoon’s friendship. A year after losing your virginity to Jungkook, you meet Namjoon, who becomes your best friend… and who you want so much more with. Before you and Jungkook get it together in To All the Men I’ve Loved Before, there was BTW, ily.

Thank you all so much for reading! I plan on doing an epilogue and some drabbles to get more insight into the pasts of these characters! I love them so much, I don’t think I am ready to let go. The masterlist will be updated as more are added! TATMIFB Masterlist

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kpopdaebak-lol · 4 years ago

Text

Monsta X • When they come home exhausted after a long day (and you end up cuddling) •

...

Shownu

You’re in the living room when you hear the door open and close, a sign that Shownu came home. You look at the clock, he’s a little later than usually. You look smiling at the door expecting Shownu to appear any moment. But instead of joining you in the living room as he normally would, you can hear his steps going straight to your bedroom.

Worried you make your way upstairs. You knock softly on the door before you enter the room and find Shownu lying on his back on the bed, sprawled out over the whole width. His eyes are closed. He looks so tired, it breaks your heart to see him so exhausted. You quietly sit next to him and gently start rubbing his back, “Hard practise?” Shownu only nods and sighs.

You gently pull his head onto your lap and start massaging it and stroking his hair, and he hums quietly.

“It feels so good, don’t stop.” The both of you stay like this for a while before he sits up a little and you take the opportunity to pull him in for a long and tight hug. Shownu relaxes into it and you can feel his steady heart beat against your chest.

“Shownu, you okay, hmm? Practises normally don’t drain you as much....”

“It’s just been a long week. All I need is your warmth and some rest, that’s all. - I can feel your heartbeat”, he smiles with his eyes still closed, “I like it.”

You let yourself and him fall (gently) onto the mattress, reach for a blanket and put it over the both of you, covering you from head to toe.

You look at his face and kiss him on the left cheek, right cheek, top of his nose, corner of his lips, eyebrows... Shownu blushes a little but he enjoys the intimacy and closeness of this moment.

You stay under the blanket like this for a while, you listen to him quietly talk about his day, stroking his hair, face. Your eyes never leave his face, his follow yours.

“Thank you, y/n.” He smiles a little. You tilt your head smiling at him, “Are you feeling better?”

“If we can stay a little longer like this, I will.” You just nods smiling, pulling him in for another hug and you can see a relaxed smile on his lips.

Wonho

You can hear the door open and close while chopping some carrots in the kitchen.

“Wonho? I’m making dinner, do you want some?” When you don’t get a response you look up worriedly and make your way to the corridor. You find Wonho leaning against the wall his head resting against it, eyes shut tightly, he doesn’t look great.

With quick steps you make your way to him and hug him tightly. You can feel your heart tighten and pull, seeing him like this hurts you too. A deep sigh escapes his lips and his head slumps onto your shoulder. Somehow he seems so small.

“What happened, Wonho?”, you whisper while still holding him. “Just a long,” he takes a deep breath and exhales, “- long day.”

You stand there for a few moments not sure if you should move, but you can tell Wonho needs the comfort of your arms at the moment. So you just keep hugging him, slowly stroking his back with one hand.

“Come with me”, you say gently into the silence after some time has passed, while tugging at his shirt lightly.

He follows you with slow and heavy steps into the living room where you sit down on the sofa. You gesture Wonho to sit next to you and he slumps down, he places his head onto your lap so he can look up to you. “Wanna talk about it?”, you ask while tucking some of his longer hair strands behind his ear. He shakes his head “There’s really nothing to it, I’m just drained, that’s all. Worked out this morning, had a bunch of meetings about the upcoming events and then we started practising the new routine, it just killed me.” His eyes closed mid way explaining what happened and an exhausted smile lingers on his lips.

You lean down and peck them. This makes Wonho smile, but he doesn’t open his eyes. You stroke his hair again. “Can I get another? I think it makes me feel a bit better, you know?” You smile to yourself, relieved that Wonho starts to feel better. You shower his face with kisses, with each one Wonho relaxes a bit more. You stop your little attack when you hear a loud noise, so loud it makes Wonho’s eyes shoot open.

“Was that-?” “Y/n, that was embarrassingly loud, I am so sorry! I haven’t eaten anything since lunch time and I am starving...” you just chuckle while placing another kiss on his lips. “Let’s order some food, I want to spend some more time with you like this.” Your words make him beam up to you.

Minhyuk

You’re chilling on the sofa covered in a blanket listening to music when the door suddenly opens with a bang. You nearly scream at the sudden noise and person standing in the door frame. But you see Minhyuk enter the living room and slump down on top of you.

“Minhyuk, I swear if you do that again- you scared me!” To your surprise he doesn’t tease you like always but just mumbles something against the crook of your neck. You pick up on his state and the situation and gently start massaging his shoulders and neck, he hums.

“That bad, huh?”, you question quietly. Minhyuk doesn’t have the strength to lift his head and just keeps talking against your neck, it tickles quite a lot, but you try your best not to shift around too much. “Today was just... a lot, y/n...”.

You pull out the blanket sandwiched between the two of you and open it so Minhyuk can crawl under it too. His head is now resting on your chest, his eyes closed in exhaustion. You hug him tightly and he hums again, relaxing his body onto yours.

He sighs contently and you start placing soft kisses on his face and top of his head. When you stop he sighs even louder.

You chuckle a little but start placing kisses everywhere again. He hums again. Just to tease him and lighten the mood, you stop again. You can feel his lungs fill with air before he sighs even louder and heavier than before. You laugh a little and can see a smile play around his lips. You start kissing him again, stroking and tickling his neck gently. The both of you keep playing this game until a full smile forms on Minhyuks lips.

Kihyun

You are reading a book on your bed when you hear the front door close and heavy steps walk towards the bedroom.

Kihyun enters looking a little disheveled and tired. “Kihyun, you look tired.”, staying the obvious, hoping he’d smile. He tries to smile, but just looks exhausted.

You pat the place next to you, a little worried to see him in a state like this. Kihyun lies down with a sigh and puts his arms around your waist while you start rubbing his back in slow circles.

“Y/n, some days are just killing me...”

“Want to rest a little before dinner?” Kihyun just nods in response.

You keep rubbing his back and trying to keep reading your book, but you can’t really concentrate. You just want to make sure Kihyun is comfortable at the moment. His head rests on your tummy, his eyes are closed now so you keep comforting him with slow circles, light strokes.

After some time you can here him snore slightly. With your free hand you grab a blanket and gently place it over him.

Once it’s time for dinner, you carefully free yourself from his embrace. You stroke his cheek gently, giving him a soft peck before leaving the room quietly, making sure Kihyun is still asleep.

You start prepping dinner and try to be as quiet as possible. Some time later Kihyun wakes up and joins you in the kitchen, still a bit groggy from his nap, but the smile on his face is endearing.

You beam at him and give him a light kiss on his lips and hug him tightly “Slept well?”

He just nods and smiles into your neck.

You place a cup of tea in front of him and motion him to sit down.

“Sit. You’re not doing anything today. Dinner is in the oven and we can watch a film later if you want to.” While you prep the rest of dinner you keep pecking his lips every now and then, leaving Kihyun with a gummy smile and soft.

After dinner you make yourselves comfortable on the sofa.

You can tell Kihyun isn’t very focused on the movie so you start stroking his head again with some soft kisses in between.

Soon he falls asleep. You decide not to wake him up. Instead you make sure Kihyun rests comfortably. And both of you end up sleeping on the couch.

Hyungwon

You’re in the middle of baking some cookies when you hear Hyungwon come home. You can hear him walk to the living room, his steps slower than usually. Quickly you wipe your hands and make your way to the living room too. You stand in the door and watch him as he collapses on the sofa.

“Ugh why are meetings so exhausting? We’re sitting all day, but honestly, it’s worse than dance practise..”, you can hear him complain quietly into one of the pillows.

You take in the scene in front of you, him sprawled out, arms and legs everywhere, making your sofa look tiny, sighing so heavily it makes your heart ache.

Without another word you grab a blanket, place it over him and tuck him in, give him a quick peck on the cheek and lay on top of him, hugging him tightly. Hyungwon opens his sleepy eyes a little surprised.

“I’m sorry you had a rough day.”, you whisper. “It’s a little better already.” He smiles as you nuzzle your head into the crook of his neck, kissing his skin softly.

“Can we stay like this for a moment?”, he mumbles. You just nod and listen to Hyungwon’s breathing. Gently you start stroking his cheek and his eyes flutter closed.

“Do you need anything?”, you whisper, don’t wanting to disturb the serene moment. “Hmm I wouldn’t say no to those cookies I smell...” you chuckle lightly at his response and peck him on the lips.

“Tea, coffee or hot chocolate?”. Hyungwon grins now, he loves being babied by you.

“Coffee, please.”, he pretends to pout a little to make you laugh.

“Anything else?”, you ask in a chuckle. “Hmm another blanket please. And would you mind getting me a hoodie from the bedroom?”, he asks with big eyes.

You just kiss the tip of his nose in response and Hyungwon smiles back at you thankfully. “Anything for you.”, you whisper. You get up and quickly get everything Hyungwon needs and put on some more comfortable clothes yourself. Once Hyungwon got changed too, you place the blankets on top of him, pecking his lips and cheeks every now and then and he giggles happily, loving the attention and gentleness of you caring for him.

Quickly you make some coffee and prepare a plate of cookies. When you enter the living room again, Hyungwon opens the blankets for you to crawl in.

Once the two of you are comfortable he sighs, this time utterly relaxed.

Jooheon

You sit on the sofa, the lights dimmed, listening to some music and trying to get some work done. Every now and then you look worriedly at the clock on the wall, realising it’s getting quite late.

Finally you hear the front door open and close. Relieved you jump up and make your way to the door. You find Jooheon taking off his shoes, he looks so small and tired, it makes your heart beat in pain. You basically race to him, embracing him in a big and tight hug. Jooheon looks at you surprised,

“Y/n, you’re still up?”, his voice sounds tired and worried.

You nod against his chest and say quietly, “I wanted to wait for you. You didn’t sound great when you called earlier...”.

“Yeah, some things went wrong in the studio and it took us hours to fix it. My brain is fried.”, he relaxes into your embrace and you gently pat his back. After a couple of minutes just enjoying each other’s presence, you gently pull away. “Nooo, not yet!”, Jooheon whines a little. You give him a quick kiss on his cheek and take his hand, “Let’s just get more comfortable.”

You go to the living room and sit on the sofa and Jooehon places himself between your legs, his head resting on your tummy. He sighs a really long and deep sigh, slumping down a bit more.

When you start stroking his head he hums softly. “Y/n, you’re so warm.” You place butterfly kisses on his forehead, corner of his eye brows, eyelids, top of his cheeks, dimples, top of his lip, nose, making Jooheon giggle happily. You can feel the tension leave his body so you keep pecking his face until a bright smile manifested on his face. He keeps his eyes closed, enjoying your warmth, taking in your comforting scent, still smiling at the attention and affection he gets. You end up falling asleep like this and decide to take the next day off, having a long lie in and cuddling all day.

I.M

You’re sitting in your favourite spot at the window, watching the sun set, listening to some music.

You can hear the front door close and before you can even get out of the blankets and onto your feet I.M hugs you from behind, sighing loudly.

“Everything okay?”, you ask a little surprised. I.M just shrugs.

You tug at his shirt to make him come around and face you. He looks down at you with a small and tired smile, making your heart twist a little.

You decide to pull him down so he ends up straddling you. Gently you hug him again and he places his head on your shoulder.

“Thanks, y/n.” “I’m not doing anything... do you want to talk about it?”, you carefully inquire. He sighs again, “It’s nothing big, really. I’m just tired, is all.”

You start to rub his neck, trying to get the tension out of his shoulders. Slowly I.M starts to relax. Playfully you start kissing the side of his face which is next to you. You can feel him chuckle against your chest, so you shift him a little and start pecking the other side of his face too.

“Mmmh. I’m enjoying this, y/n. I don’t want to get up.”, he mumbles against your ear.

“You don’t have to.”, you whisper back, glad he’s feeling a little better. You grab a blanket with one hand and place it over the both of you. I.M nuzzles his face into the crook of your neck, smiling relaxed against your skin. The sun is nearly set and it’s getting darker around you. But the moment is just too calm and warm to be bothered to put any lights on.

I.M is now in a full cuddle mood and you end up spending the whole evening cuddled up on the sofa, chatting quietly, I.M loving all the kisses and hugs in between.

...

A little different than the things I’ve written before, I hope you like it!

What comforts you the most when you’ve had a long and exhausting day?

-S✌🏼

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seiyasabi · 4 years ago

Text

The Scientist

(Hange (Hanji) can rearrange by guts tbh :P Lol, anyways, this is a Yandere Hanji x Female Reader story! It takes place in current time tho (same universe as Yelena). Also, idgaf how tall the creator says Hanji is. In this fic, even the tall girlies get to be shorter than Hanji.

TW: kidnapping!, !drugging!, unwanted advances, stalking!, etc!

Please proceed with caution! Also, I’m sorry if you can tell that this was in my drafts for a hot min. I started to write this when I first started this blog, and I just finished/revised it lol. )

“Hey, (Nickname!” Hearing the loud shout of a certain brunet, you jump about a foot in the air. As usual, Hanji decides to surprise you whilst you’re in the middle of something.

Pulling away from the microscope you’re currently looking at, you put on a strained smile, “Yes?”

Their one eye sparkles in a hopeful fashion from behind their glasses, one of her their fiddling with their eyepatch, “Sooo,” They draw out the o, seemingly trying to disarm you, “Are you free this weekend? There’s this suuuuper cool bar that’s just opening, and me and the others are thinking about going! It’s totally not a date or anything,” They pause to let out a loud laugh, “I think it’ll be fun! What D'ya say?”

Forcing out a chuckle, you shake your head, “Ah, I’m sorry, Hanji, but I’m busy this weekend. I have a lot of samples I need to process for that upcoming court case,” You chew your bottom lip nervously, “I’m sorry. I hope you and the others have a good time, though!”

A new voice is heard, butting into your conversation, “I can do those! I’ve been needing more hours, anyways,” Whipping your head in the direction of the voice, you silently curse. Fuck Armin for being so helpful!

Hanji beams even brighter than before, clapping their hands together happily, “See! Armin can do that for you!” They lean in closer to you, their lab coat brushing against yours, “Come on, (Nickname), I’d be reaaaaally happy if you go!”

An uneasy feeling pools in your gut, as an anxious sweat begins to bead at your brow, “I-uhm-I suppose I can go for an hour or two.”

“Great!” They grab your hands in theirs, squeezing them in a friendly manner, “The bar is called ‘Titan’s Wrath,’ and we’re meeting at eight on Saturday!” Releasing you, they pat you on the back, “See you later!” They run off, most likely back to the dry lab.

After a moment of silence, you slowly turn towards the short haired blond man, “Armin, I’m going to kill you.”

He blanches at your blunt tone, flushing a bright red, “Wha-what?”

You grit your teeth, tears starting to bead your eyes in frustration, “They’re the person I was telling you about! Hanji constantly harasses me, and you practically just tossed me into their arms! Why would you do that?”

A look of pure terror and remorse appears of his face, “Oh my God, I’m so sorry. I-I didn’t realise that they were the person-oh my God, I’m so stupid. I-I really didn’t know! I’m so, so sorry!” You let out a quivering breath, hands clenched into fists to calm you down.

“It-it’s alright. I never really told you who they were. Just never do that again, okay? If you need more hours, just tell me, and I’ll see what I can do,” The younger man sighs in relief, shoulders deflating.

“I promise to never do that again!” You nod, blinking away your unshed tears, and smile at him.

“Okay, then we don’t have any problems,” You laugh lightly, shaking your head, “Who would’ve thought our newest intern was the dry lab’s wing man?” He panics again, making you cackle good-naturedly, “Now, can you please grab the dilluter? I forgot to grab it from the fridge.”

Hanji, being the ever cheerful person that they are, set their sights on you the moment you were hired.

But, if they came out with their feelings immediately, you’d just assume that they wanted to take advantage of you.

So, they watched you. Writing down your likes and dislikes, your quirks, everything. Through their ‘research,’ they came to realise that you’re very good at your job. The wet-lab should be lucky that they have you… but they never give you the recognition you deserve!

They bombard you with assignments, become upset when you don’t finish them in seconds (which is so unreasonable!), and hardly give you any time off!

You don’t seem to mind, being the good girl you are, but Hanji sure does!

So, they’d seek out the top graduates from the college nearby, and help them become employed at the lab. The newbies really helped get the load off of your shoulders, and once done, they decided to swoop in now that you had a decent amount of free time.

It started at the vending machine- they’d asked you if you wanted to get coffee with them sometime. You said no, probably because you felt it wasn’t professional. After all, rumours would spread like wildfire if you went out with the lead lab tech of the dry lab!

So, everytime they knew you had a weekend off, they’d approach you with new places to try.

Be it a movie, a store, a concert- it didn’t matter. They just desperately wanted to have some time with you!

But, you reacted the complete opposite of how you were supposed to.

You’d pick up as many shifts as possible, most times going into over time, just to avoid the flamboyant lead. Whenever you saw them in the hall or by the break room, you’d turn in the complete opposite direction. If wet-lab needed to correspond with the dry-lab, you’d send your most qualified coworker to do so.

It was saddening, to be honest. They love you so much, yet you refuse to even face them.

But, thanks to that Armin kid, their plans can finally bloom into fruition. For once, you can’t escape the brunet’s advances!

Because of that, Hanji made a note to the owner of the lab that Armin would make a good contribution to the lab after he gets all of his qualifications.

Saturday night comes far too soon.

Dressed in black skinny jeans and a cropped, white long sleeve, you stand in front of ‘Titans Wrath.’ Scoffing at how the bar sounds like a metal band, you make your way inside.

Grabbing the door handle, you yank it open, immediately hearing loud rock music. Mentally patting yourself on the back for your observation, you step inside of the cool building.

Looking inside, you see a large, double sided bar in the middle of the room, a stage and standing area just behind it. There are a few pool tables in the front area where you’re standing, along with double doors leading to a hidden kitchen.

There’s also a lot of people inside. You can’t see Hanji or their friends, but seeing a band setting up on the stage tells you that they’re probably on the other side of the bar.

Walking over to the steps leading down into the stage area, you try to ignore the leers of a few men around you. Maybe you shouldn’t have worn clothes that accentuate your beautiful figure. Peering around the corner, you see the scientist and their friends, an empty seat in between them and a large blond man, that you vaguely recall being the police chief of your city.

Strolling towards them halfheartedly, you give yourself a small peptalk inside of your mind. Sure, Hanji has always been touchy-feely with you, sure, they’ve asked you out about one hundred times, sure, you run into them every time you leave the house, sure-

“(Nickname)! You actually came!” The brunet’s voice is loud, loud enough to cut through the loud music and equally loud chatter. Forcing a smile onto your face, you give a small wave, suddenly uncomfortable with the line of strangers at the bar suddenly looking at you.

“Yes, hello, Hanji,” When you’re close enough, you’re thrown into a tight embrace, their body practically molding into your own. They’re about a head taller than you, making it so your head is practically forced against their protruding collarbones. Hesitating slightly, you give them a soft pat on the back, trying to escape their suffocating embrace.

“I’m so glad you came!” They release you just as suddenly as they grabbed you, putting a hand on the small of your back, and practically forcing you in between the blond man and themself, “(Nickname), this is Erwin. Erwin, this is (First Name).”

His blue eyes rake over your appearance, recognition appearing on his face, “It’s nice to see you again, Ms. (Last Name), especially under better circumstances.”

You nod, thinking back on some high profile cases you met with him for, “Yes, it’s nice to see you again, Mr. Smith.”

A loud scoff is heard from beside Erwin, the head of a short, dark haired man peeks around the broad chested man, “It’s about time you brought a respectful brat,” You have to stop yourself from flinching at his harsh tone, “I am Levi,” Opening your mouth to introduce yourself, he holds up a hand, halting you, “There’s no need for introductions, Shitty-glasses has gushed about the ‘pretty wet-lab scientist’ for months now.”

“Oh, alright. It’s nice to meet you,” His lifts his whiskey on rocks in acknowledgement, before downing it with one swig.

“Likewise,” After that, he turns towards a light brown haired woman, her high pitched voice is heard from where you’re sitting.

“I’m sorry about that. The detective is very… unsociable.”

“It’s alright, Mr. Smith. He kind of reminds me of one of my interns, Annie,” You say with a small smile, before your swiveling bar stool is forced around so you’re facing Hanji.

“Sooo, you like the bar so far?” Their smile is somewhat pleading, and you can’t help but just go along with them.

“Yes, this place is, um, cool. Very interesting choice,” They clasp their hands together with a pleased expression, as they somehow move closer to you than they already are. At this point, you’re worried that they’ll fall off their stool.

“Right? Our residential emo boy found it, and we’ve been hooked ever since,” A loud ‘Shut up, Shitty-glasses,’ is heard from behind you, making the brunet laugh, “Let me order you a drink! I think there’s something that you’ll really like!”

Opening your mouth to reject, it was seemingly too late, because the brunet has already waved over a punk-ed out bartender. You didn’t really hear what the drink is called, but the man sets to work immediately.

It barely takes a minute for it to be finished, and the purple drink is suddenly in front of your motionless form. Looking up, the purple haired man winks at you, before turning his attention back to a speaking Hanji.

“Anything she orders, put it on my tab,” He nods, before walking off to service another customer.

Turning your attention back to Hanji, you try to persuade them to let you pay, “Thanks, Hanji, but it’s alright. I can pay for my own drinks-”

“Don’t worry about it; I asked you out, remember? And it’s the least I can do for harassing you for the past few months,” Startled by their uncharacteristically somber words, you nod in understanding.

“Alright. Thank you,” They nod, before motioning towards your drink.

“Try it! I’m sure you’ll like it!” Grabbing the cool glass cup, you bring it up to your lips, and take a small sip. It’s amazing. It tastes like (favourite flavour), and it goes down smooth.

“You’re right, this is delicious!” They grin brightly, clapping their hands together in glee.

“Great!” They motion towards the stage with their head, “The show’s about to start! Are you ready for a kickass night?” You laugh at their vigour, and nod.

“You bet!”

Maybe tonight won’t be so bad after all.

You spoke too soon.

It seems like you’ve drank too much, because you’re now feeling dizzy. Throughout the set, you’d ordered about five more drinks, and they seemingly hit you all at once.

Hanji, who’s been watching you since your fourth drink, feigns shock at your unstable form. That Rohypnol they grabbed from work works quite well! Now they can see why it’s the choice drug for those awful, awful people.

“Whoa there, (Nickname), it seems you’ve had too much to drink!” Hanji jokes, hands holding you steady on your bar stool. The only person from your group still at the bar is Erwin, but he knows they have it under control. As chief of police, he feels a bit of remorse, but he knows it's for the best. Hanji will take care of you, because, after all, you’re their only true obsession.

“Wha-huh? Was’ happenin?” Hanji can all but coo at how cute you are.

“Don’t worry, cutie. I’ll get you home safe,” Helping you to your boot clad feet, they send a knowing look to Erwin, who smiles in return. Wrapping an arm around your waist, they help you stumble out of the bar, and walk towards their car. Once at the passenger side, the brunet unlocks the door, and assists you inside. You flop onto their leather interior, eyes unfocused, and body movements random. Chuckling to themself, they buckle you in, not before pulling on gloves, and taking your phone, keys, and wallet off of you.

Taking these items, they empty your wallet of its cash, and chuck everything into a nearby bush. Knowing that the cameras outside the building and the buildings surrounding the place are off, they feel at ease. If anything, they feel like your knight in shining armour. If they hadn’t taken you, someone else would’ve-you’re just too cute.

Closing your door, and rounding the car, they slide into the driver’s side, before starting the car. Buckling themself in, they look at your out-of-it form, and smile.

#yandere hange #hange zoe #yandere hange zoe #yandere aot #yandere aot x reader #hange x reader #hange supremacy #yandere attack on titan #attack on titan x reader

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hiddleloki · 3 years ago

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*insert Mushu “I live” gif*

Ok, so I finally watched Loki and I loved it. Loki and Quicksilver are my fav characters and I was really, really mad at Marvel for what they did to my boy Quickie, but I’m still holding out hope that they somehow fix that at some point. I mean, hello, variants? That thing officially exists now.

Luckily Loki seems to be more favored by Feige/Marvel and seems like we’re gonna see lots more of him. Season 2 and possibly even MoM. Season 2 is old news as there were already reports of it actually happening last year, and this year in January Deadline confirmed S2 of Loki with Michael Waldron returning. But I was holding out hope for Loki making an appearance in MoM (I want to see Strange interact with Loki again) and it seems like there’s a good chance of this actually happening.

Anyway, some thoughts about the show:

- I loved the show’s cinematography. It didn’t feel like a tv show at all

- Soundtrack is just *chefs kiss*

- TVA Loki my beloved. I honestly think TVA Loki might be my favorite version of Tom’s Loki so far. This show finally gave us the opportunity to really delve deeper into Loki, who he is as a person, how does he form relationships with people outside his family. It was just so fun to see different sides of him, like making a friend, falling in love? I never thought I’d ever see that. Especially not after IW

- Really liked his reaction to watching his ‘greatest hits’ and realizing his family actually loved him. Loki was always kind of a softie who genuinely cared about his family and seeing his parents’ (and his own) deaths was so emotional

- Infinity Stones being used as paperweights for the TVA will never not be funny. It broke my mind and sent me into existential crisis just as it did with Loki.

- Loki needs to give Casey a fish at some point. Or take him to an aquarium.

- Mobius needs his jet ski in season 2. I also want to know more about Mobius and his backstory. What was his Nexus event, does he have a family, what is his real name?

- I really liked his friendship with Loki and the fact that he’s canonically Loki’s first real friend. Loki needed a friend (the W3 and Sif were never really his friends, Loki just tagged along I guess) and I’m happy he finally has one

- I need to find out more about B-15, who she was, her real name...Wunmi absolutely killed it during “I looked happy.” scene. God, that bit broke me

- Ravonna was sus to me from the start and she’s also one of the characters I want them to explore more. Especially now since Kang and his variants are also involved.

- Sylvie is probably my favorite new character introduced. I knew Sophia’s gonna play Sylvie and she’s gonna have a large role, but damn I didn’t expect to love this character as much as I do. There’s so much more left of her to be explored and I think her arc in season 2 will be amazing

- I saw that Loki/Sylvie romance coming the moment Lamentis episode ended. There were so many hints in that episode, I’m actually surprised so many people viewed them as having a sibling type of dynamic.

- I know that their love story is not a typical straightforward romance, but also serves as a metaphor for self love, but I found the idea of Loki falling in love with someone who is an au version of him, but also isn’t him both interesting and hilarious. Also, it was adorable especially that blanket scene in the void. There’s just something adorable about Loki being a complete softie for someone else. You know what, I’m rooting for them. I hope they get their happy ending, they deserve it.

- Literally every character in this show deserves their happy ending. Like, just the idea of the variants not knowing who they are, being brainwashed and forced to work for this organisation...*happy endings for everyone please*

- Majors’ variant of Kang, aka He Who Remains was everything and is right behind Sylvie as my new favorite character. The guy absolutely killed it and I need more of him and his (many) characters/variants right now. Plus I would’t mind if we see this particular version of He Who Remains again.

- The way they made Loki come out as bi was also so well done and I’m so happy they acknowledged that. Disney is notoriously bad with LGBT+ representation so the fact that the creators of the show managed to put that in was everything. I heard the director was fighting real hard for that to be made canon and I appreciate her effort.

- We were shown more of Loki’s abilities. It was about damn time.

- Alligator Loki is the baby Yoda of the marvel verse. I loved the theory that there’s an universe in which Alligator Loki was adopted by Crocodile Odin.

- Classic Loki.....Richard E Grant stole that episode. God, I wouldn’t mind an episode that focuses strictly on Classic Loki, he was just such a great character and he broke my heart

- I wonder if Kid Loki will travel to the main timeline and join the Young Avengers at some point

- THROG

- I really liked how they established that variants are basically their own people. Their own beings, they each have their own backstories, autonomy, clear differences that make them THEM. They aren’t copies, they’re individuals. And that they aren’t genetically related, but that they share the same soul and role in their universes (basically temporal aura) because that will also clear up some confusion with upcoming multiverse movies, for example Spiderman

- I suppose Loki confirms that all Peter Parkers in NWH are basically variants of Peter Parker, but just like Lokis, they aren’t the same, which explains why they all look different and why they also have different aunts and families. It’s not DNA that makes someone a variant of a certain being, it’s a soul. A role.

- I really hope that that one rumour of various Stephens in MoM actually turns out to be true.

- Strange is gonna kill Loki and Sylvie

- Which brings me to the last take:

- Ralph is totally Peter. I am clowning yes, but lemme have this.

Overall, I really liked the show. I loved it in fact. It was really character driven and didn’t focus much on action, which is a plus for me, because I rather watch characters talk and interact with each other than action sequences.

The bad thing is that now I’l have to wait at least 2 years to see what happens next. And I’m curious if there’ll be a bit of a time jump between both seasons.

#loki #loki series #loki show #tom hiddleston #sylvie #sophia di martino #mobius #owen wilson #ravonna #gugu mbatha raw #jonathan majors #kang #sylki #ralph bohner #quicksilver

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oinkz · 4 years ago

Text

bound to you

— you share an umbrella with your ex, oikawa. (gn!reader)

— angst, harassment (not by oikawa or the reader), light fluff, 3.5k words, very experimental so i apologize if it’s a bit.. messy

A dark cloud from outside the classroom window stretches across the canvas of the sky, its presence mighty and foreboding. Any minute now, it could start pouring, and that known fact is making it more and more difficult to focus on your calculus test as time lets on.

Just one more question. That’s it. And then, you can finally speed home, tend to your aching head, and take a nap, even. After the awfully long day you’ve had, you think you deserve it.

It was a cliche sort of day, not completely terrible, but it still rendered you exhausted nonetheless. You had woken late, skipped breakfast, ran into someone who was holding an iced coffee in their hand, and then strutted the school parameters in a very obviously stained uniform. (In the end, you’re just glad that the coffee wasn’t scorching hot.)

You had wanted to return home immediately after the last bell rang, but you needed to make up a test you were absent for last week. This brings you to now, in the midst of the very last question.

With whatever wisdom and knowledge you can muster, you power through, tapping through your calculator and recalling that god-forsaken unit circle.

What even is a unit circle? You wouldn’t know, you’re merely doing enough to pass.

All you know is that one, this test wasn’t as bad as you thought it’d be (thank goodness for that) and two, you didn’t have enough time to check the weather this morning. Of course, the one day you failed to check is the day the weather gods decide to hurl you with a storm.

You had forgotten your umbrella. And once you complete this math problem, you’ll have to end your school day in the most cliche way possible - with the walking through pouring rain after a particularly hard day. You see it all the time in movies and books.

‘Life imitates art,’ they say. And it sure does.

You don’t take long before you can input your final answer to the calculator and write it down on your paper. You even box the number in, making it nice and pretty for the teacher to read through your messy work. Maybe it’s to be generous for the sake of being generous - you know, to make your teacher’s job a little easier. Or maybe it’s to lend some good karma your way, in hopes of postponing the upcoming storm for another thirty minutes. You’re a little desperate, to say the least.

“Done?”

Speak of the devil. Your head shoots upward to find said teacher.

You merely nod, handing her the paper.

Then, you’re on your own for the remaining minutes in school. You wish your teacher a good evening, and then wander through the empty halls to find your locker.

5pm is a quiet hour for Aoba Johsai. At this point, most students have made their way home - even the ones with extracurriculars. It was a little unsettling when you first stayed late, but you’ve grown used to it.

Long were the days when you would stay in the gym till late evening to help the boys in the volleyball club. They’re memories you wish you could look at bitterly, but you simply can’t. Because in the end of the day, you were happy. So happy.

But just because it was happy, doesn’t mean it was meant to be.

You take a sharp breath inwards, hoping to put an end to this - this reminiscing. You’ve moved on now, and you’re okay. Everything is just dandy without them. Without the supposed love of your life.

You’re taking books out of your locker when you hear it - the small roar of thunder and heavy pitter patter of pouring rain. For the tenth time today, a sigh falls from your mouth. Certainly, you’re not surprised, but it still sucks nonetheless.

You just want one good thing to happen today. One.

Now, you stand at the school entrance, a low frown weighing down the corners of your lips.

There’s no avoiding it - you have to get home somehow... but still. Mother Nature can be so, so cruel. Was it not enough that you walked around school with a dark coffee stain on your blouse?

You’re so busy moping that you don’t see the painfully familiar presence quietly making his way beside you, a subtle, yet adoring smile on his lips.

“What are you waiting for?” He wonders, staring at the sky alongside with you, eyes genuinely curious.

Your heart stops for what feels like minutes.

Because you know that voice. Everyone does, but especially you.

It’s the same voice that lulled you to sleep when insomnia was eating you away. The one you’ve heard sing far too many times thanks to those long gone karaoke nights. The one that whispered ‘I love you’s into your ear when you felt completely, and utterly alone.

That voice.

“It’s raining,” you reply bluntly, wanting to end this conversation as soon as possible. It’s not because you hate him per se - in fact, it’s quite the opposite. But you would rather not be anywhere close to him.

“Where’s your umbrella?” He asks. It’s a simple question, but it’s so perceptive. Just like him.

Of course he remembers how you always check the weather every morning. Of course he remembers how you had always - without fail - remembered to bring an umbrella.

You hate the hope that swells up in your stomach. And you so badly want to hate him, too.

“I—“ You start, shakily. “It’s been a long day.”

He hums. Whether it’s in agreement, or to say he can tell, you’re not sure.

“C’mon then.”

Dumbfounded, you’re not sure what “c’mon, then” even means. You hope he’s not implying...?

Reluctantly, you look over to him, and he’s waving an umbrella in his hand.

Oh, no. You can’t.

You shake your head rapidly. “It’s okay, really—“

“Please?” his voice is painfully quiet.

He’s practically begging for you to look him in the eye.

And who were you to resist? He’s always been difficult to say no to.

You know that more than anyone.

So, when Oikawa makes his way outside, opens his umbrella, and gestures for you to get under...

You do, despite the pure melancholy that swallows you whole.

One year ago.

You don’t remember how it got to this point. Had you known that dating someone would have so many consequences, you would’ve been a little more careful with your feelings.

Falling for Tooru was easy, but terribly dangerous. You learnt this the hard way.

What started out with cute little love notes adorned all over your locker ended with handwritten threats telling you to.....

You can’t even think about it because it had brought tears to your eyes the first time. You’d think one insulting note about your appearance was enough, but it had worsened - even when you were trying hard to stay optimistic. Soon enough, you had to take jabs about your skills, your mannerisms, and little by little, they became daily reminders of how every single thing about you will always fall short compared to your beloved, Tooru.

“.... I can’t do this anymore,” You say, your voice barely above a breath.

Oikawa’s limbs immediately lock in place. He looks up and sees the sad look in your eyes, the way they glisten with tears. No, no, no...

“Surely, you don’t mean...?” He can’t even finish his own sentence, because the thought is too scary.

But somehow, you finish for him. Just like you’ve always finished each other’s sentences, you’ve managed to finish this one, too. Except it doesn’t make him laugh and kiss your lips in utter adoration. This time, it’s gut-wrenching.

“Yes, I want to break up, Tooru.” Your words are firm and sure, but you... you are anything but.

Tooru has to prevent this somehow, but he’s not sure how.

How do you tell someone to stay?

When staying risks their safety?

When staying puts them in pain?

As out-of-worldly as his skills may be, Oikawa Tooru is only human. You have brought him too much joy for it just to end like this.... With some nobody who can’t keep their jealousy to themselves. And despite the pain you’re going through, he wants you to stay.

So, he brings his hands up to your cheeks, taking you in in your entirety.

“Y/n...” He pleads with his eyes, and it’s the most desperate you’ve seen him. Perhaps it’s because deep down, he knows he’s being selfish.

You swallow the lump in your throat, unable to form the right words in your mouth. Silently, you wrap your arms around his waist, so painfully slow, as if it was the last time you were going to hold him. As if to say sorry.

Sorry for what? You never did anything wrong.

He doesn’t bother to hug you back, because if he does, he’ll lose. Hugging you back will mean he’s also saying goodbye, and he’s not. He’s only just getting started with you. “We can’t...”

“We have to,” You force out, and he hates how absolutely rigid your words come out to be.

He shakes his head in denial. “No, we don’t.”

Your patience is running thin at this point. Because in truth, you tried. You always had, for him.

When the first note came, you didn’t tell him until weeks later. For months and months, you had put on a front to save his feelings and yours. At the time, pretending seemed like the best option.

But it wasn’t, because little did you know, pretending was a gateway to even more issues you had no idea was taking root in you. At this point, you’re not sure if you even know yourself anymore.

If you can’t understand yourself, does Tooru? Does he really love you, or does he just love the facade you put on?

Whatever the answer is, it doesn’t matter, because either way, you’re tired and in dire need of some healing. As terribly cruel as it may be, breaking up and focusing on yourself is truly the only way to be okay again. You may not be okay right now - if anything, the pain is excruciating - but the time will come. You have that much hope, at least.

“Yes, we do, Tooru,” you push onwards, pulling away from your embrace with a deep and sad frown tainting your features. “I love you - I really do - but I can’t keep pretending everything is okay. Those notes hurt, but that’s just the least of it... I just... need to be alone.”

“I’m sorry,” you finish with a sigh. He can’t even bring himself to ask why, because next thing he knew, you were out the door, making your way back home.

But what even was home at that point? Tooru was yours. Yet somehow, the foundation of love and passion wasn’t enough to keep it afloat.

Now.

“How are you?”

These are the first words that are spoken after ten long minutes of silence. Tooru - no, Oikawa is uncharacteristically awkward as he says them.

You’re not sure how to respond.

Had it been anyone else, you would’ve bluntly replied with a “fine”, but the question catches you off guard. When was the last time Oikawa Tooru asked you how you were?

So, so long ago.

It was never ‘how are you’ with him, but rather, ‘do you think aliens are real’ or ‘would you ever date an alien’. Or even, ‘do you know how much I love you’ or ‘what kind of house do you want to live in in the future’.

How did someone so near and dear to you become such a stranger?

You huff out a sigh, stopping your train of thought before it wanders off to somewhere it shouldn’t be.

“I’m okay,” you answer, holding back your tongue. You don’t even bother to ask ‘how are you’ back, because if you did, he’d probably answer with something so blunt and distant, you wouldn’t know how to react.

Yet, somehow, he doesn’t. Instead, he prods further, practically forcing a conversation on you. You’re not sure whether your thankful for it, or if it bothers you. No one likes an awkward silence, anyway.

“Do you still take the same way home?” He asks curiously, but his eyes are far-off, trained on the droplets of water that surround you two.

You furrow your eyebrows. What kind of question is that? “Yes. Why wouldn’t I?”

He shrugs. “I dunno. I found a shortcut one day.”

He did?

How did he just find a shortcut? Out of nowhere, too?

“I know what you’re thinking.” He sighs, but it’s not out of irritation - at least, not towards you. “But I just.... one day, I was just walking around town and at the time, I was still hung up on you.”

“... So you found a shortcut to my house while that happened?”

“Yeah, basically,” he laughs at how foolish he sounds. Why is he even saying this?

“You can’t just tell me that,” you say, a little too coldly for his liking. “We broke up.”

“You broke up with me,” he argues, and you swear, somehow, the rain gets louder. “I wanted nothing to do with it. Y’know, I would’ve heard you out if you just talked to me. We were best friends, y/n.”

“I’m sorry, okay? Is that what you want to say?” You stop in your tracks completely. “I know that at the time, I should’ve let you speak, but rationality doesn’t matter when you get daily notes telling you how ugly you are. I just needed it to end, somehow.”

Oikawa stops in his tracks, too. You’re no longer under the umbrella with him, instead you’re willingly getting soaked by the rain. From afar, this scene probably looks straight out of a drama.

He turns to face you in all your glory. Hair wet, eyes glassy, and makeup-stained cheeks. It’s a beautiful, tragic mess.

“Did you believe anything they said about you?” He questions, so softly he’s not sure you can hear.

But you do. You always do.

“Sometimes,” you answer. It’s the first time you’ve been honest with him in a while. “Can you blame me?”

He frowns. “No, y/n.... I could never blame you, you know that?”

Did you?

To be fair, your sense of judgement back then was quite clouded. You didn’t know what to feel about yourself, and Tooru... you had just came to the conclusion that he deserved someone better. Someone who could take meaningless insults better.

You should’ve tried harder.

“I— it doesn’t matter anymore...” you reply. “It’s been a year, Tooru.”

You don’t even mean to say his first name, it just slips out naturally.

After a long pause, he sighs.

“C’mere. You’re gonna get sick.”

You wrap your arms around yourself, walking forward into the shade of the umbrella.

The next few minutes are a bit conflicting, to say the least. There are unspoken words hanging in the air that no one wants to say, nor think about.

Oikawa’s grip around the umbrella is so unknowingly tight that he doesn’t even recognize the ache in his muscles. What good would it do to rekindle a fire that never really went out in the first place?

After the breakup, he never really... moved on. He watches, observes you from a distance, and when he works up the courage to approach you, you’re gone. As difficult as it was to find you again, he still notices things that give him hope.

He notices how your gaze unknowingly lingers as he walks past the halls. How a small smile creeps up your lips when you hear that the boys’ volleyball club had won a match.

You still care, he knows that much.

But is it worth trying to be close to you again?

“You don’t have to ever talk to me again after this if that makes you comfortable,” he tells you, his expression weirdly unreadable. “But let me just say this.”

He pauses his walking and turns to face you. His gaze on you is so intense, it practically compels you to meet his eyes.

You don’t like where this is going. At all. Once you get too comfortable and stare too hard, you’ll fall into the same rabbit hole you got yourself into a year ago. Being in his mere presence is dangerous, and that’s why you were so adamant about avoiding him so much in the first place.

But he’s hypnotizing and so, so tempting. One second turns to five when you stare at his face.

“I miss you. Not even just in a romantic way, but you were my friend first,” he confesses, and the sincerity that follows his words shatters your heart. “I’m sorry it turned out like this.”

A lump forms in your throat but you’re too frozen in place to swallow it. Because you see him - the little freckles on his nose, the flush in his cheeks, the dreamy look in his eyes. They hold remnants of your second year in high school, when love was what it was supposed to be - exhilarating, healthy, and freeing.

You see him on TV, hear his name in the halls, dream of tasting his lips when you’re asleep. There was never an escape even when you desperately tried to avoid him, and now that he’s right here in front of you, you actually have a chance to touch him. To kiss him.

And you want to. So, so badly. His lips look so terribly cold and lonely.

But who were you to relieve that?

Good god, did you miss him.

“I miss you too,” you breathe out, weak in the knees at the force of his gaze. “I wish I didn’t take those notes so personally. Wish it didn’t come between us.”

He smiles. “So hard on yourself as always, y/n,” he says, a ghost of a chuckle leaving his lips. “Anyone would’ve lost their minds. I would’ve.”

“Yeah... But I should’ve told you earlier,” you argue. “Maybe then we would’ve resolved it—“

“You are not at fault for us falling apart,” He sounds confident - as if it was a truth.

You don’t know why he keeps insisting it wasn’t your fault. It was.

Your only argument back is, “... Was too.”

Tooru squints his eyes. Two can play this game.

“Was not.”

“Was too.”

“Was not.”

“Was too.”

“Was not.”

“Was too— oh, fuck off.” Your expression fades to a glare.

Oh, how he missed this.

“But seriously, I never ever blamed you for what happened,” he prods firmly, making sure you get the idea into your pretty little head. The idea that he doesn’t hate you - never has, never will. “I just miss us. Do you think you could ever....?”

You tilt your head to the side. “Ever... what?”

A full on blush blooms across his cheeks. “Date me... again..?”

Now, it’s your turn to chuckle. “Seriously, you still want to? After all that shit?”

“Of course I want to, are you kidding me?” Tooru quips back, not wasting a second. “I’m crazy over you, y/n.”

That’s it.

You don’t even know what comes over you for what happens next. Before you could get a hold of your senses, your lips are on his. The taste is one you’ve had on your tongue countless of times, but this time, it’s so strange, so new.

Whatever unsaid apologies you never worked the courage to tell him take the form of this - your perfect lips, and your wandering hands. You two don’t even notice how the umbrella is long gone, allowing the rain to kiss you all over.

He’s close, so close. His chest is pressed against yours and you can practically feel his bare skin through the thin, wet fabric of his uniform. It’s so intoxicating, you could pass out, right here and right now.

How did you ever give this up?

“I love you,” he whispers after pulling away, his hands cupping your cheeks and gazing at your face in its entirety. “I love you, I love you, I love you. I’ve been wanting to kiss you for so long.”

He doesn’t stop there, though. He nuzzles his nose into yours, then kisses your forehead, then your cheeks, then plays with your hair.

You want to cry.

“You still... want me?” You ask, your voice painfully small.

“Yeah, I still want you.” The grin on his lips don’t allow any room for question. “Do you still want me?”

“Yeah... Sadly,” you send him a cheeky smile back.

He flicks the back of your head, and soon enough, you two are kissing in the rain again.

Perhaps this is a sign that Oikawa Tooru is bound to you. He wants you endlessly, kisses like an absolute god, and unknowingly lives through all your worst days with you.

You wouldn’t mind if fate just so happened to like the look of you two together. Shitty, handwritten notes or not.

You like the look of Tooru with you, too.

#oikawa x reader #oikawa tooru x reader #AHH I HOPE THIS IS OKAY..#fics by oinkz

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littlewinter1917 · 3 years ago

Text

𝔏𝔦𝔨𝔢 ℜ𝔢𝔞𝔩 𝔓𝔢𝔬𝔭𝔩𝔢 𝔇𝔬

𝔓𝔞𝔯𝔱 𝔒𝔫𝔢

My blog is 18+ only. Minors DNI. 🔞 Don’t repost my work anywhere.

Series Masterlist

Words: 5.9k

Pairing: Bucky Barnes x Fem!Reader

Summary: It’s Halloween, and you’re housesitting for a good friend of yours. But what initially started out as a relaxed movie night quickly turns into something more frightening, as a strange man shows up on your doorstep, and he’s not who you think he is. Mysteries, misunderstandings, an unsolved murder, and a man without his memory all lead you to an intrigue whose solution turns out to be more difficult and dangerous than you could have ever anticipated.

Warnings: Brief mentions of blood and injuries. Swearing. Tensions.

If there are any warnings, that you think are missing, please don‘t hesitate to reach out and tell me, so I can add them accordingly.

A/N: This is my first time writing a series so I'm a bit nervous about sharing this, lol. Also, I know Bucky makes his first appearance a bit belated in this chapter, but please bear with me, I promise he will be a more prominent part of the story in the upcoming chapters!

If you’re reading this, I hope you enjoy!

“God, this weekend is going to be so much fun!” your friend, Lara exclaims while eagerly dragging you along down the street.

“And you’re going to love the café I told you about,” she adds, “we’re almost there anyway.”

Before you even get the chance to respond, she continues with her chatter.

“I’ve just found it a couple of weeks ago, and I swear to God they make the best pastries in all of Cold Springs.”

“Well, that certainly sounds promising.” you admit, smiling brightly at her.

If you’re being really honest, as enticing as the claim sounds, you are actually way more excited about finally being able to catch up with your friend whom you haven’t seen in quite some time.

Lara has been one of your closest friends for a while now, yet unfortunately, you don’t get to see each other as often as you’d both like. It’s mainly due to the fact that you two live in different states and finding the time and a date that aligns with both of your schedules is actually not an easy endeavor.

But somehow you two managed to do the seemingly impossible, although it did come with a bit of a twist.

Lara had needed someone to housesit and look after her two cats while she was out of town for a book convention in Boston, and it coincidentally aligned exactly with your semester break.

Naturally, you had offered your help and Lara gratefully took you up on your offer, even though she had been a little bit hesitant at first saying that she couldn’t possibly ask you to do that.

But you brushed her off, emphasizing that it really wasn’t that big of a deal. Besides, it wasn’t like she wouldn’t do the same thing for you if the roles were reversed.

She had already helped you countless of times in the past, especially in regard to your academic adventures since Lara mainly works is as an archivist, apart from her involvement with some independent book organizations.

Because of her job in the archive, she often provides you with sources that are rather hard to come by. Despite her busyness, she would always make time and exceptions for you and go out of her way to find the best resources available to support you in your research and writing.

So if anything, helping her with some housesitting was the least you could do. After all, you only had some writing assignments due, and you would be able to work on those from her house just as well as from your apartment.

It was agreed upon that you would come visit her for a total of 10 days. You’d arrived earlier this morning, and Lara had excitedly picked you up from the airport.

After a brief stop at her house to drop off your luggage, you two walked down into the towns center with the intention of going for a belated breakfast in one of Lara’s favorite cafés.

“Here we are!” Lara announces, eyes bright and smiling.

She had stopped in front of a brick red building with big, framed windows and a wooden sign that declares in cursive letters: Patty’s Pastries – Best Pastries in all of New York.

“That’s a bold claim.” you note.

“Yeah, but I promise they deliver! You won’t be disappointed.” Lara insists while opening the door and you follow after her, laughing.

The interior of the café can be summarized into two simple words: Campfire-cozy.

The color palette consists mostly of deep and rusty browns and red tones, with big wooden tables and old, leathery seats.

The counter is illuminated by a warm orange light and there’s a fireplace burning at the back of the room, giving its surroundings a golden glow.

Despite the large windows on one side of the room, the place still manages to appear somewhat dim, adding to the cozy feeling of it all.

“Hey Patty!” Lara greets the woman behind the counter, who acknowledges the two of you with a kind smile.

“Hey Lara. It’s nice to see you again.”

“Likewise, Patty. Is the corner booth at the back taken yet?”

“No, I saved it for you, honey. It’s all yours.”

Lara beams at that.

“Patty, you truly are an angel sent from the heavens above. Thank you!” she declares, which only makes Patty laugh and shake her head.

“Follow me!” Lara beckons you while walking through the small café into the back of the room, her excitement almost outshining the sparkling fireplace.

The booth Lara picked out truly is a fortification of coziness.

It’s close enough to the fireplace that you can hear its faint crackling sound and feel some of its warmth, but not too close where the heat gets daunting.

The view from the window is nice and features the showcase of a small antique shop that’s situated across the small street, and the leathery seats are just the right amount of soft and comfy, which leaves you wondering how a place this perfect can actually exists.

Your thoughts are interrupted when Lara draws your attention to the small menu cards in front of you. One being their regular menu and the other one seems to be a Halloween special.

“They didn’t have this one last time I was here.” Lara observes while pointing at the Halloween one, which reads: Haunting Special – Two spooky treats for the price of one.

“Well, when was the last time that you were here?” you ask curiously, and Lara starts squirming in her seat for a moment.

“Uhm, will you think I’m crazy if I say yesterday?”

You can’t help but laugh at that.

“This really is starting to be your second home, huh? Are the pastries really that good?”

“Oh, you’ll understand why in just a moment.” Lara concludes, the determination clear in her eyes, before adding: “So, what would you like to drink?”

🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃

“God, these really are the most delicious pastries I’ve ever had!” you exclaim, before taking another bite from your éclair, leaning back into your seat, savoring the moment.

Lara just gives you a proud look that says, I told you so! Ere she continues eating her pain au chocolate.

“I wish they had those Halloween specials on more days than just Halloween,” she mumbles between bites, “those cute decorations are to die for!”

You smile in agreement.

There are little chocolate bats drawn on your éclair, and Lara’s pain au chocolate features the face of Adam, Frankenstein’s monster. The small pumpkin pie that’s shared between the two of you also looks a bit like a mummy and the chocolate brownie next to it features a cute marshmallow ghost. Even the red velvet cupcakes have a haunting look, with small bloody knives stuck in its cream frostings.

You’re not entirely sure how the two of you will be able to eat all of that, but Lara had insisted on wanting to give you the best pastry experience possible, and who are you disagree.

🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃

While eating your plenty pastries, the two of you talk about everything and anything. You two share laughter, memories, and pastries, and it really is the best time possible.

Since your housesitting would only start next week – from Monday till Friday – you and Lara still have this weekend, as well as the weekend of next week, to catch up and spend some time together.

And of course, you also have today: Friday, the 31st of October – better known as good old Halloween.

“Okay, so let me fill you in on tonight’s plan.” Lara gushes, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

“I already told you about this dinner party tonight, right? But I don’t think I told you the details. The dinner party is hosted by two friends of mine, Grant Stevens and his wife, Marilyn Stevens. He’s an investigative journalist, she’s a rather famous archaeologist, and every year they host this murder-mystery party. It always has the theme of a decade – last year it was the 80s, and this year it’s the 1920s again.”

“Oh, so that’s why you asked me to bring my pearl necklaces.” you interject.

“Exactly! There’s this vintage clothing shop down the street with an array of tasseled dresses that we can try on and choose from, and they will go perfectly with your jewelry.” she asserts.

“Lara!” you exclaim baffled. “You’re telling me that we’re going dress shopping after I’ve just eaten a month worth of pastries?”

Lara can’t help but laugh at that, the sound of it as sweet, and joyful as the treats in front of you.

“Hey! You and me both sister!” she defends herself. “You and me both.”

After finishing all of your pastries and drinks, you two make your way down the street to the vintage clothing store when Lara’s phone starts ringing, making the two of you come to a sudden halt.

Pulling the phone out of her trench coat pocket, Lara briefly looks at its screen before taking the call.

The conversation is rather short yet judging purely by the look on Lara’s face, the news aren’t anything good. At the end of it, a pained expression is clearly written on her face.

“I understand,” she says, voice muted, “I’ll be there.”

Once Lara has stored her phone back in her pocket, she lets out a long sigh, before filling you in on the bad news.

The call had been from the management of the book convention that she helped organize. Because of some unexpected changes, they wanted her to fly out to Boston earlier than initially planed.

They wanted her to fly out tonight instead of Monday morning.

“It seems urgent.” Lara concludes apologetically. “They’re having troubles with some vendors, and they want me to take care of it.”

The previous excitement has vanished from her eyes and is instead replaced by a sorrowful look. It’s clear that she feels guilty about having to cancel your shared Halloween- and weekend plans.

“Did they give you an exact time where you need to leave?” you ask carefully.

“No, but they did say that they plan on booking me a flight for the evening.” Lara answers, the disappointment still apparent in both her voice and on her face.

“Okay, so we should probably get home then. You will need to pack your luggage and whatnot.”

“Yeah,” Lara agrees, halfheartedly, “I guess we should do that.”

Once you’re back at Lara’s place, you help her with gathering all of the stuff she needs for the weeklong convention.

Luckily, she had already started packing some essentials before you arrived, which made the whole ordeal both easier and quicker.

After taking care of the luggage, you both had enough time to sit down in the living room and talk some things through. You’d visited Lara enough times already to know your way around her house, but she still covered some of the basics.

In addition, Lara had written you some notes with instructions about how to feed her two cats, Milky Way and Soda Pop, as well as which plants you had to water in the time of her absence.

“On the fridge door are some take-away menus. I can especially recommend the Italian place, Little Steve’s. The content of the fridge is obviously also all yours. I got you some of those cold brew teas you really like, so you’ll find them there.” She tells you and you thank her for that.

“I’m still really sorry about ruining our Halloween plans.” Lara mumbles and your heart twists at the guilt in her voice.

“It’s alright! Don’t worry about it, I’ll be just fine.” you try reassuring her.

“I’ll be cuddling up on this couch here and watch some spooky movies,” you explain, “after all, you still have your amazing noir movie collection, right?”

“Oh, yes! And believe it or not, but I managed to expand the collection even more, so you should find another good treat or two.” Lara agrees, a small smile adorning her face again.

“I’m sure I will. And on top of that, I also get to spend some time with Milky Way and my beloved Godson Soda Pop. I’m sure they’ll want to catch up too.”

Lara chuckles softly at that. “Yeah, at least they get to enjoy your company. Didn’t think I would get jealous of my cats, but here we are.”

“Oh, don’t be! We still have the weekend after your trip, and we’ll certainly make the most of that.”

“Thank you for taking all of this so well.” Lara gratefully states, and you just give her a look that says it’s seriously fine, stop bringing this up.

“I think I told you everything you need to know, and – Oh! I almost forgot!” she exclaims. “A friend and ex-roommate of mine, Jake, was supposed to come pick up a custom-build book tonight. I’d told him he could just come by since he still has his keys and we were supposed to be out on that dinner party tonight, but now ….” Lara doesn’t finish the sentence and looks at you instead.

“Are you okay with him coming over? I can still text him and call of the plan if you’re not.”

You ponder her question for a moment. “He’s a good friend of yours?”

“Yeah. I promise he’s a sweetheart. A bit shy, and awkward, the quiet type, you know, but he’s alright! He used to live with me here for a couple of months before he found a small, affordable apartment, closer to the theater he works at. That’s what he needs the book for, too. It’s a prop for a new theater play starting on Monday. I’ve just finished making it yesterday.” Lara explains.

“I think you’ve briefly mentioned Jake before in the past. Is he the guy whose parents cut him off when he came out as bi?”

“Yes! Yes, it’s part of the reason why he ended up living with me for a while. I swear he wouldn’t be able to hurt a fly!”

“Alright, I’ll take your word for it.” you joke.

“So, you’re okay with him coming over? I promise it will be quick. He’ll just come through the backdoor, grab the book I left for him on the dining table, and then he’ll leave again.”

You furrow your brows in confusion. “Did you just say he’ll come through the backdoor?” you question puzzled.

“Oh, right. I should probably explain this. Back when Jake used to live here, the next-door neighbor was this really hot biker guy who would always flirt with him. Jake had the biggest crush on him, too, it was rather cute. But he’d always get so flustered and speechless in that guy’s presence that he often tried avoiding him by sneaking through the backdoor instead. Even though the door is a pain in the butt to open, that habit has kind of stuck with Jake till now.”

“Oh,” you say, “and they’ve never gone out on a date?”

“No, I don’t think they have. The biker guy has moved out a while ago.”

“Huh, that’s kind of sad.”

“Yeah.” Lara agrees. “Wait, I’ll text him to let him know that you’ll be here so there aren’t any bad surprises.” Lara proposes as she quickly types away on her phone.

A few minutes later, she chimes in again. “He says it’s alright, but he’ll probably be wearing a Halloween costume just so you know.”

“Alright, noted. I’ll keep that in mind for when a Freddy Krueger type figure shows up at the backdoor.”

“Don’t forget, he’s a theater kid at heart, so he’ll probably go all out.” Lara warns you jokingly, and you both laugh.

A few hours and a lot of talking later, a notification appears on Lara’s phone letting her know that her taxi for the airport will arrive in about 5 minutes.

“Alright,” she sighs, “time to say goodbye.”

She plants a soft kiss on the top of each of her cats’ heads before moving on to you, engulfing you in a big and hearty hug. “Thank you for taking care of all of this.” she says, her voice muffled by your shoulder.

“Thank you for already making this day worthwhile with your company and all of those pastries.” you whisper back.

“Oh yeah? Bet you’ll be visiting that place as frequently as I do.”

“I sure will, and I’ll write you a check for it since you’re responsible for my newfound addiction.” you joke before adding: “Please text me once you’ve arrived safe and sound in Boston.”

“I will.” Lara promises. “And you’ll let me know how the movie night with the kittens goes.”

“At least they don’t talk during the film.” you tease.

Lara laughs and swats your shoulder.

“You’re a meanie.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Yes, you are.” Lara playfully counters, before pointedly looking down at the cats at her feet.

“Kittens, be well-behaved and nice to our guest. I’ll be back in a week, and I expect to hear nothing but good things about your manners.”

With that, the two of you make your way to the entrance, getting her luggage and sharing one last hug before opening the door.

You stay in the doorway as Lara makes her way down the stairs, through the small garden path towards the car parked on the sidewalk.

“Take care!” you shout while waving one more goodbye.

“You too!” Lara mirrors you, before getting her luggage and herself into the car. One more look, a wave through the window and off she goes.

🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃

“It’s just us three now.” you say to the two cats that nestle around your legs once you’ve closed the door.

Milky Way, Lara’s first cat looks up at you with wide, questioning eyes, almost as if he’s expecting you to continue talking.

He’s a black cat, with the exception of a white swirl on his tummy and seemingly matching white socks. The unusual galaxy-like swirl is also where he got his name from.

Soda Pop, on the other hand, is the younger one of the two, although only by a couple of months, since Lara got him shortly after getting Milky Way, once she realized that he craved a companion.

His looks can be described as a gloomy, fluffy gray with piercing blue eyes. Unlike Milky Way, his names origin is not as clear-cut.

You were there the day Lara got Soda Pop from the rescue shelter, when he was mere a clumsy and scared little kitten with big blue eyes.

“You can easily get lost in them.” you had joked. “His eyes are almost as piercing as Rob Lowe’s when he played that hot guy in the Outsiders. Wasn’t he called Sodapop, or something crazy like that?” you asked.

“I don’t know what you’re trying to imply here, but we are not naming my cat Sodapop.” Lara had said, laughing.

“I wasn’t implying anything – wait, that’s actually not a bad idea.”

“Oh, absolutely not!”

“Come on! I’m his supposed godmother, remember. Doesn’t that count for something?”

You were initially kidding, but now that you thought about it, Soda Pop wasn’t the worst name for a cat.

Or maybe it was and that’s why you liked it. Either way, Soda Pop should become the name of the cat, you silently decided.

But Lara had been as set in her ways against it as you were in your support of it.

“The cat deserves a normal name!” she argued.

“Right, like Milky Way.” you countered.

The two of you had been sitting on the kitchen floor, watching the kittens slowly get adjusted to one another while the talk about the best possible name continued.

You were both drinking some organic sparkling lemonade, which you’d bought in cans earlier, and while your can was safely placed on the kitchen counter, Lara had positioned hers next to herself on the ground.

You two were still absorbed in your naming debate when not-yet-named Soda Pop suddenly came running towards Lara and in the blink of an eye, knocked over the soda can.

“Oh shit!” you both exclaimed when the sparkling liquid formed a puddle on the kitchen floor, and Soda Pop took a dive right into it.

“Oh my God, that’s a sign!” You exclaimed while quickly fishing the small kitten out of its little, bubbly pond.

“I told you we should ask the cat. And now look at his answer!” You proudly stated while gently holding up the dripping kitten.

It took Lara a moment before she started laughing.

“Damn you and your godson of a cat.”

“I mean, he took a bath right in it. What more of a sign could you want? We can see it as his baptism and call it a day!”

“Alright, I concede. Soda Pop it is, but don’t you dare tell people it’s because of Rob Lowe’s Character.”

“Okay, fair enough.” You agreed. “It can stay a secret between the four of us, but right now we should probably go and clean little Soda Pop up!”

“God, I hate you. And I hate how the cat seems to be already as stuck in his way as you usually are in yours.” Lara teased.

You just laughed and blew her a kiss before walking towards the bathroom.

“Did you hear her? You really come after your godmother, you sticky little bastard!” you lovingly told the kitten, proudly looking down at his small form in the palms of your hands.

“Oh, Soda Pop, I really missed you!” you tell the cat, who’s comfortably laying in your lap while you’re stroking his fluffy fur.

“I still sometimes think about the day we brought you home and named you. Although getting that sticky drink out of your fur was a pain in the –“

your monologue is interrupted by a small meow.

“Exactly! That’s what I was about to say!” you agree, smiling down at the cat. “But it’s getting dark. Come on, time to get this spooky movie night started!”

You softly move Soda Pop down from your lap and onto the couch before making your way over to Lara’s DVD collection.

Pretty much every wall in the living room is covered in nothing but tall shelves, all filled to the brim with books except for one.

That’s where Lara keeps her collection of vintage films. Old movies were something you two bonded over early in your friendship, and it still is something you two unapologetically adore.

Brushing your hands softly over the DVD’s backs, you carefully read through the visible titles. Lara was right – she had grown her collection since your last time here.

“Hm, They Made Me a Killer is certainly a new addition,” you mumble to yourself, “but I think the quality is supposed to be rather grainy.” You still pull the movie out while you keep reading through the countless titles in front of you.

“Ghosts on the Loose. Never heard of it, but the name sounds promising, as does Phantom Killer.” You grab both movies before continuing on your search journey.

“Oh!” A small happy squeal escapes your lips. “Private Buckaroo! I can’t believe she got her hands on that edition!” Without really thinking, you grab the movie, and add it to the growing stack in your hand.

“Spellbound. A classic, but a good one. The amnesia-thing really drives the story home.” Just like before, the film finds Its way onto your little pile.

You’re about to turn away from the shelf when your eyes land on a movie a couple of rows down: Rebel Without a Cause. It’s one of your all-time favorites, even though it’s not a noir movie, and you pick it up as well.

Satisfied with your selection, you make your way back to the couch. After setting the movies down on the coffee table, you walk into the kitchen with the mission of gathering all of the snacks you could possibly need – and eat.

“Alright. Let the party begin!” you excitedly chime as you finally manage to sit down on the couch, wrapped up in a fluffy blanket and your PJs. You had decided to change into them after you had fed the cats, who are now softly snoring away on the couch next to you.

The cozy room is illuminated by nothing but the blue light of the TV screen and the orange hue of the small fireplace, which you somehow managed to get started. Its gentle crackling sound fills the air and it soft light leaves a warm, golden glow on your skin.

After grabbing the remote control, you sink even further into the comfort of the couch, cuddling up between the two sleeping cats and some cushions.

The proof of your successful snack hunt is captured in a wild array of treats, which you have carefully arranged in small, colorful bowls on the coffee table, right next to your selected pile of DVD’s.

You had even compiled one extra bowl of candy for the neighborhood kids, in case any of them come knocking. Although you highly doubt that, since you’ve turned off every light in the house, leaving it completely dark in order to add to the spooky feeling while watching the movies.

Letting out a satisfied little sigh, you rearrange the blanket around your shoulders and start the first film.

Just an hour later, the Movie Phantom Killer comes to an end.

Somewhere in the middle of it, you’d gotten a text from Lara letting you know that she arrived in Boston a while ago but only recently managed to check into her hotel room.

She’d also asked you how you were doing, and you’d sent her some pictures of the sleeping cats and the fireplace, along with the list of movies you planned on watching.

Phantom Killer, however, turned out to be a bit of a disappointment. It wasn’t as spooky or as gripping as you would’ve liked, and the ending was certainly predictable, leaving you feeling a little bit underwhelmed.

“I guess we should just move on to the next one.” you say, flipping through the rest of your selected DVD’s. “Let’s continue with Ghosts on the Loose. If this one fails my expectations, too, I’ll just go with a trusted favorite, like Spellbound or Rebel Without a Cause.”

Getting the pile back in order you quickly organize them by their release date, with Rebel Without a Cause right on top.

“Any objections or counter-offers to my proposal?” you ask, turning to the two cats who are still lazily lounging on the couch, looking blankly up at you.

“I’ll take that as a no.” you conclude cheerfully, before setting up the next film.

🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃 🎃

You’re about ten minutes into the movie, with your hand buried in a bowl of popcorn, when you hear a weird scratching noise coming from the dining room behind you.

Muting the volume of the TV, you pause for a moment, anticipating another sound, but everything just stays dead quiet.

You’re about to blame it all on your vivid imagination when you suddenly hear it again. This time it’s louder - more desperate.

Without really thinking, you park the popcorn bowl back on the coffee table before standing up, your blanket still securely wrapped around you.

Your feet carefully carry you towards the wooden sliding door that separates the dining from the living room. Taking a deep breath, you slide it open just a bit at first.

You’re not sure what you initially expected, but you’re greeted with nothing but darkness until your eyes adjust, and the faint outline of the wooden dining table and its matching chairs come into view.

You’re almost ready to turn around again when you catch the quick moment of a figure outside the window, right by the backdoor.

The uneasiness you feel instantly evaporates once you realize that this must be Jake, who’s trying to get in.

I should probably help him with it, you think, moving towards the door and pulling it open.

“Hey Jake!” you greet the tall figure before you, shifting to the side so he can step in. “Come on in. Lara told me you would be coming by.”

The guy in front of you looks at you wide-eyed, completely caught off guard.

Weird, you think. I thought Lara told him about my stay.

You don’t dwell on that too much though, as Jake hesitantly enters the room.

“Careful where you step, it’s really dark – wait, let me quickly turn on some lights!“ you shut the door behind him before stumbling over your blanket on your way towards the light switch.

Thank God it’s still dark, you think to yourself, hoping that your new guest didn’t just bear witness to that.

Once you flipped the switch, the dining room is filled with a warm, yellow glow, and you finally get a better look of Jake.

Jesus Christ, you think. Lara wasn’t lying, he certainly went all out with his costume.

The man before you is dressed all black, and he’s nothing like you imagined.

He’s tall, with broad shoulders and messy, dark hair. And as if that’s not intimidating enough already, he’s also wearing what looks like military tactical gear.

Is he going as a soldier? A spy? Maybe a phantom killer? You don’t want to hurt his feelings by not recognizing who he’s dressed as, so you swallow your question.

You’ve heard that comic books are currently all the rage again, so maybe he’s dressed as one of those cartoonish heroes you know nothing about.

The outfit really is quite something though, you think. And is that a fake metal arm?

You thought the fake bruises and blood on his knuckles were already elaborate details, but this? It must have taken a lot of effort because it certainly looks real.

“Uhm, I like your outfit.” you compliment, trying to acknowledge the apparent complexity of his creation, but Jake just gives you a blank stare.

“Right, moving on.” you quietly mumble to yourself, turning towards the dining table and quickly grabbing the book that’s planted on top of it.

You turn back to Jake and gently trust it into his hands. Eying the fake bloody cuts on his fingers, you’re not sure if him holding it is actually a good idea, but he also didn’t bring anything else you could put it in.

Jake’s eyes just wander from the item in his hands back to you, and then back to the item again. He looks at it somewhat puzzled.

Does he not like it? You silently question. But that’s not really your problem, and by now you kind of want to get back to your film.

“Anyway! You’ll probably want to get to that Halloween party of yours, or whatever plans you have in that outfit.” you suggest, looking expectantly at Jake, but he’s just staring at you wide-eyed.

Shocked.

A confused frown appears between your brows as you try to figure out why he’s looking at you like that - when it hits you.

He’s not looking at you wide eyed.

He’s looking at the TV screen behind you, wide eyed.

Although that still doesn’t quite explain why he seems to be in such a shock about it.

“Have you seen that movie?” you ask. “It’s from 1943, I think.” you tentatively add, but Jake’s eyes are just thoroughly glued to the film that silently plays out in front of you.

Watching him quietly for a moment, you swear you see something like recognition flash before his eyes when Ava Gardner, the main actress of the movie, shows up on-screen.

You don’t know what it is about the movie that has him so consumed, but you can’t really blame him; Old noir movies usually conjure a similar fascination in you.

And so, you do the only thing you can think of: You offer him to stay so he can continue watching the movie that he’s so obviously encaptured by.

When you tell Jake about your offer, his wide-eyed gaze turns to you, and then a small miracle happens as he gives you the hint of a little nod.

That’s some progress right there, you think.

Lara definitely didn’t exaggerate when she said that Jake was a quiet and socially awkward guy, but you think you can work with that.

“Alright, I’ll rewind the movie, and you can get comfy on the couch,” you offer.

Jake hesitantly looks at you, and you give him a reassuring smile. “Of course, you don’t have to if you don’t want to.” you try to clarify, but he’s already cautiously following behind you.

Luckily, the L-shaped couch is big enough that you can sit both next to each other, while still keeping a comfortable distance.

You quickly introduce him to the two cats, who don’t even bother looking up at the tall man as he carefully plants himself next to them.

He’s still holding the book that you gave him earlier tightly pressed to his chest, and something about that makes your heart ache, but you can’t really say why.

Before getting back to the movie, you offer Jake his own fluffy blanket, which he timidly takes.

At first, he just holds it tightly next to the book in his arm, but then, as your focus shifts from him to the screen in front of you, he tentatively unfolds the blanket, wrapping it around his shoulders - mirroring you.

While watching the film, you almost forget he is there. He’s that quiet.

You can’t help but glance in his direction every now and then, making sure he’s still there and didn’t dissolve into thin air while you weren’t looking. But every time you do, there he is, watching the movie and being completely captured by it.

As time moves on, you carefully plant the bowl of popcorn he’s been continuously eyeing into his lap, and when you hear the telltale soft munching sound coming from the man next to you, your heart fills with a small sense of joy.

But there’s still something off about him.

You didn’t really notice it earlier, or maybe you did, but you didn’t really pay much attention to it, but now you do.

You’re barely focused on the film. Instead, you’re reflecting on your previous interactions. If you didn’t know any better, you’d say that he looked scared.

Not scared of you, ‘cause that’d be silly, but scared of something.

It’s weird and you’re probably wrong because he’s dressed in that bloody outfit, and has the statue of a bodybuilder, but there was something in his eyes earlier that made him seem like he was thoroughly lost.

You're overthinking this, the voice in your head tells you, while you’re nibbling on some pistachios. He’s just a shy and quiet guy. Sure, maybe he has some serious social anxiety issues, but who are you to judge?

You try to focus back on the movie when suddenly your phone next to you lights up. A message from Lara appears on the small screen, quickly followed by another one.

Hey, hope the current movie isn’t a dud.

The first message reads, followed by:

Jake just messaged me.

You furrow your brows in confusion. When did he manage do that? You think to yourself. How had you not noticed that? After all, you’re sitting right next to him.

A third message from Lara appears. And this one makes your heart drop and fill with nothing but dread.

He told me that he won’t be able to make it tonight. He’ll probably come by tomorrow instead. Hope that’s okay.

Despite your close proximity to the fireplace, an icy shiver runs down your spine as an awful assumption takes form in your head.

If that’s not Jake sitting right next to you on the couch, you think, then who is?

And just that very thought makes your blood run cold.

Next Chapter

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And that's it! Thank you so much for reading!

#bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x y/n #bucky barnes x you #bucky barnes fanfiction #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes angst #bucky barnes

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