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sungbeam · 11 months ago

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nonidol!kevin moon x f!reader

another summer break, another annual trip to the lake! except, it seems like when you and kev get there, you'll have to make some tweaks to the original rescue protocol.

▷ genre, warnings. childhood friends 2 lovers, fluff, hurt/comfort, humor, swearing, motherly meddling and matchmaking, shirtless kevin..., kissing, talks of academic expectations/pressure/insecurity/and lack of fulfillment, kim seokjin is my favorite plot device, this could technically be slow burn, pining-ish?, im sorry joshua + serena, little to no interactions with the other boyz 😔

▷ word count. 29.0k (...hah)

this is the sixth installment of the love in unity series! reading the prev fics is not required, but i do encourage it :] all prev yns will be referred to as _!yn

a/n: return to summer with me 😌 or for those of u on the other side of the world, we can give summer an early welcome :') treat her w kindness pls </3 hope u enjoy!!

EPISODE ONE (PILOT): DON’T YOU LOVE FORESHADOWING?

"IT still feels weird, man." Kevin Moon brushed his hand over the surface of his newly cropped hair, freshly cut specifically for this summer break, just earlier this week. He probably should have gotten it done before he took all those pictures with his graduating friends, but life had been busy as of late.

Jacob Bae, best friend, roommate, and one of the recent graduates, chuckled from the other side of the video chat. "I'm sure it does. But hey, it looks good, so it's not like you have anything to worry about."

Kevin glanced over at the car where his dad was gassing up. His mom was in the back seat, waving her arm out the window to beckon him back to the vehicle. "Thanks," he grinned. "Looks like my mom is telling me to come back. This is probably the last time I'll have signal for a few weeks."

Just behind Kevin was the little gas station he and his parents stopped at for snacks and the last leg of their drive. It was tradition that every summer his family made the trek to their lakeside cabin a few hours out of Vancouver. Except last summer, Kevin couldn't make it; in contrast, this summer, Kevin and his parents were going without Kevin's younger sister. Usually, there were a couple other families that were there at the same time, too, who Kevin had grown up with. It was usually a grand time.

Kevin adjusted the bag of snacks he'd purchased from the store that hung on his arm as he made his way back to the car.

"Make sure to take pics! And say hi to your mom for me," said Jacob.

"Why don't you say hi to her yourself, Jacob-ah?" Kevin's mom chided teasingly as Kevin took his place in the passenger seat next to his dad. Ever since Kevin and Jacob had met at that one, fateful out-of-country student mixer at university, neither of them shut up about each other to their own families. It was like finding a needle in a haystack, locating a fellow Korean-Canadian.

Kevin passed his phone back to his mom, and he heard Jacob's immediate, "Hi imo! How are you?"

"I've been doing well. Wah, you look so glowy," his mom marveled, and Kevin felt her nudge him in the shoulder. "Hyungseo-ah, maybe you should get a girlfriend, too, if this is how radiant Jacob looks after so long."

Jacob's warm chuckle contrasted Kevin's groan. The latter rubbed his hand down his face with an embarrassed wince. "Eomma," he said weakly, sliding down in his seat. Not this again.

The car began to roll out of the gas station and he lowered his window to catch the breeze as they went. He already recognized the pattern of trees in this area, and his heart fluttered at the thought of being so close to childhood again. The lake was always a favorite place of his.

"—Kevin mentioned something about other families being there?"

"Oh, yes. We're always there with the Ln family, and more recently, Kevin's cousin—you know Yuna, right? She and her husband Seokjin meet us there with their kids now."

Kevin rested his elbow along the edge of the window. "Uncle Seokjin is an interesting character, Cobie," he mused. "I think you'd get along."

"Seokjin gets along with everyone," his dad chimed in.

"You know who you should get along with, Kevin?—" Kevin already knew where his mom was going with this, "—Yn Ln! You're not gonna be shy after spending so long away from her, are you?"

Jacob's voice echoed in the car. "Who's Yn Ln?"

Kevin squirmed in his seat. "Just—a family friend. Mom, can we please not make this a big deal?" And why in the world would he be shy around his childhood best friend? Three years couldn’t have changed a person that much, could it? You were cute—but in a dorky way—that was how he had always seen you.

She sent him an innocent look. "What? I don't know what you're talking about."

"You know what I'm talking about," he said, twisting around in his seat to send her a pleading look. "I don't wanna make her uncomfortable, especially since… y'know… we're not kids anymore?"

His mom made a sound of disapproval, but relented. "Aish, fine. I won't say anything; I promise."

A beat of silence. Then from the phone, "I still have no clue what's going on."

The twins were being a pain again. Most of the time, since you were away at college, you actually missed the twin hellspawn, but you should have known that bliss would shatter the moment you had to endure another five hour car ride with them.

"—MAMA, CONNOR IS BEING A JERK—"

"WELL, ALICE WOULDN'T SHARE THE GOLDFISH!"

The noise-canceling headphones weren't working. Usually, they worked substantially well when trying to block out the frat party noises at school, but they weren't holding up well against adolescent discourse. You would have thought that once they had grown out of toddler-hood, they would calm down a little, but sibling rivalry prevailed.

You shucked your useless headphones off and twisted around in your seat to peer into the backseat. "Here, have mine," you said, dropping your bag of goldfish into your little brother's lap.

Connor's eyes lit up in delight. "Thanks, Yn!"

Your ears rang as you turned back to the front.

The drive up to the lake house was something you and your family did every summer, except, you hadn't gone two summers ago for a summer internship. It was a tradition completed with other families—namely the Moons, who were longtime family friends out of Vancouver. You hadn't seen Kevin, their only son who was your age, in two years because of your conflicting schedules. It would have happened again this year, but your misfortune had you internship-less. Then again, a trip to the lake was never a bad thing.

You leaned your head back against your seat rest to enjoy the rare moment of silence in the car. Already, you could begin to point out the familiar scenery out of your window.

“I heard we’re gonna be getting new neighbors this year,” you heard your mother say from the front row, breaking the brief quiet.

You blinked out of your daze, shifting in your seat and to give momentary relief to your aching behind. “Oh, really? Do we know who they are?”

“Aw, so Uncle Jin and Auntie Yuna aren’t coming to the lake with us?” Alice pouted from the backseat.

“No, Uncle and Auntie are both still coming up with us,” you dad piped up from the driver’s seat. He caught your eyes through the rear view mirror. “Their little ones are coming, too. We’re just gonna have even more people this year.”

“Should be fun,” you murmured. You leaned down to rummage through the backpack at your feet for your backup bag of snacks (because some part of your brain just knew that the twins would forget how to share).

“I can’t wait to see Kevin!” This was Connor; you could feel the car shake as he bounced up and down in his seat. “I’ve been wanting to show him my new helicopter—”

Your eyebrows furrowed. “Con, you brought the helicopter?”

“Yeah, and what about it?”

Before further argument could erupt between you and your brother, your mom stepped in. “Speaking of Kevin…”

You could feel the coming conversation like there were dark gray storm clouds forming in the distance—impending doom, you liked to think. You fumbled with the opening of your chip bag. “Mama, could you possibly, by any chance, not try and set me and Kevin up anymore?” There, you’d said it. It was out in the open.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” your mother sniffed. “I only think that you and Kevin would be very nice together! It’s already so convenient that our families are long-time friends, and—”

“Mama,” you emphasized. “I don’t wanna get into a relationship for convenience's sake.” Your skin was already beginning to heat. Having known the Moons for so long, as well as having kids the same age, your mom and his mom had harped on the opportunity to bring your families together through more than one way.

“She just doesn’t want to get into a relationship at all!” Your little brother cackled.

You sent him a dull look over your shoulder. “And after I gave you my goldfish?” The situation concerning relationships wasn’t as Connor so bluntly put it; rather, you simply had yet to find the right person, as it was for many people. A relationship would have been nice, but when it came, then it would come. Plus, you were pretty sure that Kevin wasn’t the most comfortable with being matchmade with you by the Mother Matchmakers either. That was what the pact was for, anyway.

“I’m just saying that Kevin is a smart, good-looking young man,” your mother teased.

You hadn’t seen him in almost three years, but how much could three years change a guy? Maybe you would admit that he was cute. If you hadn’t known him since he wore Cars diapers, maybe you would have had a crush on him. “No matchmaking,” you repeated.

Your mother sighed melodramatically. “Fine. No matchmaking with Kevin.”

“Thank you,” you said, settling into your seat. Something stirred in the back of your mind, though. For some reason, you had a feeling that this wasn’t the end of this conversation. But as you turned your attention back to the scenery whizzing past you, you let all dealings with matchmaking, boys, and relationships sink to the very back of your mind.

EPISODE TWO: IT’S CALLED AN AMBUSH

THANKS to the convenience of no signal, you could safely attempt to forget about the internship you hadn’t landed this year. The entire debacle had been a headache and a half, but the residual sadness still lingered. There was something about the lakehouse, though, that gave you hope that you could get over it. While you wouldn’t spend this summer doing something “productive” toward your career, you would at least be presented with a pleasant alternative.

Your dad pulled the family SUV into the gravel driveway of your family lakehouse, and childhood flooded back to you. All of the dark oak walls and browned window sills and wildflowers blooming in the front walkway among the grass… You could remember crashing your bike into that one bush to the side of the house where the rain gutter now stood hugging the building.

The twins had fallen asleep sometime between the matchmaking conversation and here, which left the car in a sort of serenity that matched the surroundings. Your house in particular was one of the few houses that was perched a little higher than the lakeshore. There were a couple around the lake that sat directly on the water with docks built into their lower levels though.

You notched your car door open, shouldered your backpack, then quietly lowered your car’s seat. Connor, who was sitting directly behind you, had his head tilted to the side, mouth wide open to catch flies as he slept. With a cheeky smile, you snapped a picture of him. Once tucking your phone away, you climbed into the back to shake him and Alice awake.

“Hey, we’re here,” you murmured. Your parents were already beginning to unload the car of your supplies for the next couple of weeks.

Your brother’s eyes fluttered open, and his arms stretched over his head as he began to compute his surroundings. “Mmm… I’m hungry,” he babbled and smacked his lips together.

Yep, this one was awake.

You patted his face in your version of sisterly affection as you leaned over him to get to his twin. “You gotta wait, dude. You’re gonna ruin your dinner.”

He rubbed his hand over his face. “You always sound like Mom when you say that.”

“I’ll take that as a compliment,” you huffed. You nudged your sister. “Hey, Alice. Up, hm?”

She shifted in her seat, eyes still closed. “Are we here yet?”

“Yeah, hon. We’re here.” With your task completed, you backed out of the car to make space for the twins to climb out after you. You took a step backwards, your foot catching against something and making you tumble into the person directly behind you. “Ah! Shi—”

“Language!” Your mom called from the other side of the car. “Hi Kevin! Wow, did you get a haircut?”

Kevin…?

You recognized the warm chuckle behind you, and the arms helping to steady you patted your shoulders in greeting. “I did!”

When you whirled around, your mouth stretched in a grin, but you didn’t expect to come face to face with the confident stature of the man behind you. He was in a tank top and shorts, which were definitely proper attire for the humid temperature, and yet, your brain was thinking about the amount of arm muscle there was. Oh, and of course, the cropped black hair. You could have sworn his jaw got sharper, too… This was not the timid-faced Kevin Moon—rising freshman in college—you last recalled.

“Kevin!” Connor’s body rocketed past you and crashed into Kevin’s legs.

Kevin bent down slightly to ruffle your little brother’s hair. “Hey, little man! What’s good?”

“I wanna show you my helicopter—!”

“Connor,” Alice said as she hopped out of the car, “Mama wants you to help bring in your stuff, and then you can show Kevin your helicopter.”

Connor’s mouth gaped open like a fish’s. “Wha—what about Yn?”

“Well, that’s just what Mama said, so,” your little sister said matter-of-factly. She raised a hand in a wave to Kevin. “Hi!”

Kevin returned the gesture with a sweet smile. “Hi, Alice.”

You and Kevin watched as your twin siblings raced into the lakehouse with their backpacks strapped onto their bodies. You could hear their hollering from out here as they fought over who would get the top bunk this year.

“They’ve gotten taller,” Kevin commented, drawing your attention back to him.

You brushed your hair from your face. “Yeah, you should’ve seen my reaction when I came back home and they were like, not small enough where I could trip over them anymore.”

The two of you shared a small laugh, and you held one arm with your other. You hadn’t realized how a few years could reset things between the two of you, but you supposed it was also attributed to the fact that three years away at college could lead to a lot of difference and a lot of growth.

“So what’s new with you?” You asked him and nudged his arm with your elbow. “Have you been working out?” You blurted, but ran with it.

Kevin smiled, reaching back to cup the nape of his neck with that sheepishness you recognized as something distinctly Kevin. Maybe things weren’t so different. “Hah, yeah actually. Is it that noticeable?”

You looked him up and down with what you hoped he saw as teasing and not you actually checking him out. “Yeah, dude. You look good though.”

“Really? Thanks, Yn. I appreciate it.” He stuck his hands in the pockets of his shorts. "You look good, too—and oh my god, I have so much to catch you up on—"

"Hyungseo! Stop hogging Yn and come in to help with dinner." Just a little ways down the path, Kevin’s mom peered out from the front porch of the Moons’ house. The houses in this neighborhood were a little more spread out than the average suburban street, but their house had always been the closest to yours.

You could have sworn you saw a dusting of pink on your friend’s cheekbones. “I’m not hogging her,” he groaned. He turned back to you, throwing a thumb in the direction of his house. “I’ll see you guys over at ours in a few then?”

You gave a nod. “For sure. My mom and I marinated a couple things for tonight this morning, so we’ll be bringing those over.”

“Sweet,” he grinned, already backpedaling toward his house. “See ya, Yn!”

“Bye, Kevin,” you chuckled and bounded up toward your house.

Once everyone in your household had settled in for the most part, your dad corralled your siblings over to the Moon house, while you and your mom brought over your family’s offerings of tonight’s dinner. Instead of entering through their front door, you simply bypassed the invisible property line between your houses and found Kevin and his dad firing up the barbeque on the back lawn.

Kevin looked up from the box of aluminum foil in his hands and dropped it onto the table. "Oh, auntie! Let me get that for you," he said, meeting you in the middle and taking the tray out of your mom's hands.

"Thank you," she said to him. "How has school been, Kevin? Remind me again—you're a…?"

"Photography major," he replied. The three of you swept past Kevin's dad on your way up to the Moons' house.

"Ah, how's that going for you?"

"It's going well—" Your mom slid the screen door open and you all deposited your shoes to the side before entering the kitchen. "—I should be able to graduate two quarters early, which is nice."

Your mom nodded her head. "That's good, that's good. Katherine, it's nice to see you again!"

As your mom shuffled over to the sink where Kevin's mom was washing a colander of cabbage, you and Kevin set the trays down on the kitchen island.

You heard Kevin's gasp of delight when he lifted the foil off his. "No way. I love your mom's short ribs so much," he said, tipping his head back with his eyes closed.

You laughed at his reaction. "Me, too dude. It's never the same when I try to recreate it at school."

"Oh, for sure," he agreed. He cocked his head to the side, a frown coming into his face. "These should probably go back out to the grill then, huh."

You considered the two trays of meat before you. "You're right."

You both covered the trays back over and began to make your way back out to the lawn.

"Has Connor showed you his helicopter yet?" You asked Kevin while you slid your shoes back on.

The screen door slid shut behind him with his other arm carrying his tray. "He did." Kevin brightened, "It's cool. That kid should go into aviation or engineering."

"That's what I'm thinking," you said. "Though, he's not the greatest at math, but I guess he still has a long way to go before he even needs to consider all that."

He nodded, sighing. "That's true. The twins have a long way to go. Crazy how far we've gotten, y'know?"

You both dropped the marinated meat trays over by Kevin's dad, only to greet your dad on the way down to help out. You were sure that you and Kevin were needed up at the house anyway; your dad had mentioned something about having Connor and Alice start on the batch of kimchi. You hoped he had set up some newspaper this time to avoid a mess.

"My sister says your porch swing broke last year," Kevin said as he followed you back into the kitchen.

"Oh yeah!" You snorted. "Pro tip: don't try to fit two families on that thing. Not a good idea."

The moms directed you both over to the fruits and vegetables on the counter that still needed to be prepped, and you picked up a knife, and Kevin a peeler.

Kevin's brows knitted together as he tossed and caught an asian pear with one hand. "You guys tried to fit both families on that thing? It could barely handle two people the last time I remember."

"Hey, in our defense," you started, already giggling at the memory, "we wanted a cool picture, but then we ended up almost putting a hole through our porch. Lesson learned."

"Lesson learned, indeed." He shook his head as he shucked the pretty ring of golden peel he'd gotten from the pear into the paper bag beside him. "Is it fixed now?"

"Should be," you said. You used the blade of your knife to help coax the peel of the red onion off, then diligently began to take the rest off. "We need a maximum occupancy sign to go with it."

He laughed. "Something like 'less than four people' or something?"

"I think it can handle four people!"

His eyebrows arched high. "You wanna test that theory?"

You glanced up from your diced onions for just a second to meet his gaze. "Uhm no. But you are definitely welcome to."

"Oh, no, no! I'm not getting looped into this solo again like you did with the tire swing that one year."

"Okay, that time wasn't my fault! You said that you bet we could ride it together without breaking the tree branch, and I said—"

Your thought train cut off when the doorbell rang. Both yours and Kevin's heads perked up at the sound and darted in the direction like a pair of meerkats. Even from this room, you could hear the front door being opened and the commotion firing up. There was only one family left to join the party, and you knew exactly who had come to make his presence known.

In minimal time, a lanky man with dark brown bangs and a magazine-cover-worthy face barged into the kitchen with his hands raised, full of grocery bags, and a child riding in a carrier on his chest. "Hello, everyone! Your favorite, most handsome uncle has arrived."

"Hi, Uncle Jin," both you and Kevin chorused, as Kevin's mom took the grocery bags from him with thanks. Your mom must have been the one who opened the door since she had gone into the other room to monitor the twins and their kimchi.

"Hello, children—wow," Kim Seokjin said as he made eyes at Kevin's arms, giving them a little squish. "Close the gyms, everyone. What have they been feeding you at college?"

Kevin's face reddened. "It's nothing, really."

"Nothing?" Seokjin made eye contact with you. "You're seeing this, too, right?"

You swallowed your laugh, but you couldn't suppress your smile. "I'm seeing it, too," you confirmed. You set your knife down and gently ran your finger over baby Leena's head; you wondered how she was still asleep with how loud her father's voice was. "Awh, she's adorable."

Your uncle by association put his hands on his hips. "Fatherhood is great, but let me tell you," he said with flair, "after two kids, I don't want anymore. I think I've seen enough dirty diapers for you both combined."

Kevin laughed. "I'm sure Yuna-noona's on the same page."

"Yes, your cousin and I are definitely on the same page," Jin confirmed while clasping a hand on Kevin's shoulder. His eyes widened, and he gave the muscle beneath his fingers a squeeze. "Jesus—"

"Jin! Do you know where the bag with the formula is?" That was Yuna, Kevin's cousin, calling from the next room over. Soon, her head poked in through the doorway, and her mouth curved into a delighted smile at the sight of familiar faces. "Oh, hi everyone!"

"I think it's in the red colored bag, babe," Jin said as he turned away from you and Kevin and waddled over to where his wife was.

"That's what I thought, too, but I can't find it."

With the young couple now off in search of their bag of baby formula, you and Kevin were again left to yourselves with the fruits and vegetables.

You scooped the diced onions up with one hand and the blade of your knife into an empty bowl for later. "Well, that was…"

"Quite an entrance?" Kevin finished. You could still see the rosiness in his cheeks. "Yup."

"You can always count on Uncle Jin to liven up a place."

"Oh, definitely." Kevin picked up another pear to peel; they would probably either be sliced up for the kids to eat or maybe used to make a dessert later. Something of the sort, at least. "Now where were we?"

You raised your brows as you picked up a carrot. "I think we were talking about how you broke the tire swing in seventh grade."

The evening progressed swiftly with everyone's combined efforts in throwing dinner together. By the time the sun was about to make its descent into the horizon, all three families were moved out onto the back lawn with chairs set up and meats cooking on the grill. There was something beautiful about the lake at this hour—then again, there was always something beautiful about the lake. You couldn’t put your finger on it, but even the way the mosquitoes danced in the waning sunlight made your chest feel warm and fuzzy.

If you strained your vision a little, you could even make out the shapes of people on the opposite shoreline beginning to light campfires of their own. Most of the people who lived around the perimeter of the lake sublet their properties during the non-vacation seasons like your family, the Moons, and the Kims. Then, when the time came, they would return to their lakehouse hideaways for much needed rejuvenation.

As golden hour painted the landscape glorious shades of auburn and butter, you caught your mother making her way toward you out of the corner of your eye.

“Yn-ah,” she said to you with a plate of the fruit that you and Kevin had cut earlier in her hands. She gestured for you to take it from her, then nodded up over to the house on the other side of the Moons’ place. “Take the twins and go welcome our new guests.”

You furrowed your brows. “New guests?” When you followed her gaze, you saw that the house next door had acquired a new car in its driveway. You definitely didn’t recognize it, but you managed to spot what looked like someone disappearing in the front door of the house.

“They’re one of the new families, I think,” she told you. She then gave you a little nudge, urging, “Go. We’re still working on dinner anyways.”

You glanced between the plate of fruit in your possession, then searched the back lawn for the hellspawn. When you located their whereabouts (skipping through a pair of hula hoops over by the big oak tree), you marched over to them to repeat your mother’s instructions.

“Oi!” You called out.

Alice looked over at you as she stopped her skipping. “I don’t want fruit,” she said when she saw what you were holding.

You stopped just short of Connor’s hula hoop circumference. “It’s not for you. Mama wants us to go say hi to the new neighbors. Come on.”

“Do we have to?”

“If I do, then yes. And Mama said so.” Plus, you were not planning to go alone upon any circumstance. Your social anxiety could not take showing up at a stranger’s doorstep alone and with fruit.

The twins dropped their hula hoops and begrudgingly trudged after you. No child could trump the “Mom said so” card. At least, not in this household.

With your siblings following after you like two ducklings to a Mother Goose, Kevin saw the line of you walking past from where he was stationed beside his dad. His eyes zipped from you, the kids, and the plate of fruit, then cocked his head to the side in bemused inquiry.

You inclined your head toward the house you aimed for in the distance and lifted the plate of fruit as if that was enough explanation.

He gave a grave nod for your sake, teasing of course, then held up his free hand in a thumb’s up for encouragement.

Nonetheless, you and your siblings carried on.

The lakehouse on the Moons’ other side was similar to all the others around the lake: dark wood walls, doors encased in a protective screen door, grass and flowers growing out of the cracks where the house met the earth. You could feel your siblings converge on you, nearly hiding behind you, as you all approached the front door. It wasn’t that the house looked scary in any way—it was just the prospect of new people that was the scary part. You were sure this family was just as friendly as everyone else, but it didn’t hurt to be a little nervous.

When the three of you reached the front door, you raised your hand to ring the doorbell.

You could hear the echo of the bell inside the house, followed swiftly by a man’s voice, “I’ll get it!”

Footsteps drawing closer… then the locks came undone, and finally, the main door inside the screen swung open.

“Hi,” greeted the young man on the other side.

You paused when his face became clearer after opening the screen door. He was, to put it bluntly, awfully pretty. Dark hair swept back out of his face and behind his ear, a prince’s facial features, and a smile that was as beautiful as the golden hour greeted you and your siblings. Even his voice was soft.

Alice held onto the side of your shorts pocket. “You're pretty.”

The man made an expression of humble surprise, and heat rose to your neck. “Sorry,” you stammered. “We’re from a couple doors down and we wanted to welcome you to the lake. These are for you and your family.” You managed to pass the plate over to him without being any more embarrassing.

He accepted the offering graciously. “Oh, wow. Thank you so much! That’s so thoughtful.”

You placed your hands on either of your siblings’ backs to push them forward slightly. “I’m Yn, and these are my little siblings, Alice and Connor.”

Your siblings chimed in their hellos to the pretty man.

His eyes narrowed in upturned crescent moons, smile widening. “Well it’s really nice to meet you guys. I’m Joshua, but my friends call me Josh or Shua.”

EPISODE THREE: MAMMA MIA! HERE WE GO AGAIN…

IT turned out that your mother had an ulterior motive for sending you and your siblings to greet the newcomers. She had popped up behind you soon after Joshua had introduced himself to invite him and his family to have dinner with you. You could sniff out the conspiracy from a mile away, but you still wanted to give your mom the benefit of the doubt.

When the first night passed without anything happening, though, you slowly let your guard down. (Rookie mistake.)

Everyone crashed into bed after cleaning up dinner. The move up to the lake was a tiring one, and the promise of an early start the next morning proved to be more than enough encouragement to hit the hay.

You were on the living room couch with Alice sitting on the floor between your legs the next day. It was late morning by this time, and you and your siblings had just woken up less than an hour ago. Your dad was still asleep, and your mom? Well, you weren’t really sure where he was.

“Ow, can you stop tugging?” Alice whined under her breath, her hand rocketing up to the back of her head to stop your hands.

You paused your movement for the third time in the past fifteen minutes. “It wouldn’t hurt this bad if you would just let me run a comb through it.”

“The brush works fine if you use it correctly!”

You exhaled sharply and pressed your lips together. There was never any rest between your two little siblings, whether it was amongst themselves or against you. You supposed you could just suck it up for the time being; it wasn’t often that you got to braid your little sister’s hair. She usually just liked to leave it down.

You heard the backdoor open and shut behind you, and the both of you turned your heads to see who it was. Your mom entered the house with perspiration gleaming on her face as she took off her sun hat and tossed it onto one of the dining room chairs.

“Hi Mama,” the two of you said, one after the other.

Your mom settled onto the couch cushion next to you. “Hi girls. Is your brother and dad up yet?”

“Connor’s with Uncle Jin and Aunt Yuna,” said Alice. “Daddy’s still asleep though.”

“Mm,” she hummed. She combed her fingers through her sweat-soaked hair. “It’s a warm morning out,” she murmured, then quickly added, “hey you.” She knocked her hand against your arm.

“Hm?” You asked as you finished up Alice’s braid and tied it off with the blue Cinnamoroll hair tie she’d chosen. You patted her back with your hand. “You’re done.”

Your little sister hopped to her feet. “Thanks!” She dashed away and out of the room—to where, you had no clue. You figured she knew where the food was if she was hungry.

You angled your body to squish your side against the couch cushions and face your mother. “What were you saying?”

“Ah, I was going to talk to you about the Joshua Hong boy.”

Joshua Hong. You didn’t realize you could hear a man’s name so often within twelve hours.

You made a gesture with your hand. “What about the Joshua Hong boy, Mom?”

“Well, isn’t he a handsome one?” She asked you enthusiastically, straightening in her seat. It was alarming how bright her expression became. “I spoke to his mom while Kevin and I were walking just now, and he’s only a few years older than you, you know.”

You heard a metaphorical record scratch. What? There was so much in that one sentence that you needed to unpack. You raised your hands to signal her to pause. “Wait, since when do you and Kevin take walks together?” What could they have been talking about? You knew Kevin was an exceptional conversationalist, but never in your time at the lake had you known of this interaction.

Your mother blinked. “Oh, we started the tradition when you didn’t come up with us that one year.”

“Tradition?” So this happened more than once? You didn’t know why you were so scandalized by this information—it was just Kevin after all. You knew your parents and even your siblings were all fond of him—of course they were. You were arguably even more fond of him, but that wasn’t the point. You hoped she hadn't said anything about you and him as an item at any point of time… you trusted that Kevin could handle that though; that was what the pact was for, after all.

“Why are you making such a big deal out of this?” She arched a brow. “But anyway, yes, so we bumped into Josh’s mom on the last leg around the lake, and she mentioned that he’s majoring in chemistry and planning to go into medicine. You guys might have something in common.”

You pursed your lips. Perhaps the two of you might have something to talk about, but your track was pre-veterinary rather than pre-med. There was probably a middle ground though... Maybe you were just being stubborn.

“Just make friends or something,” she said to you while standing up from the couch. “You need more of those.”

Your eyes shot wide open. “Hello? Mom?” Now that was simply uncalled for.

She chuckled impishly as she walked away and disappeared down the hall, leaving you to yourself. You were lucky neither of the twins were here to hear that burn.

It wasn’t much longer than a couple hours later that you found yourself on the backyard lawn space setting up the badminton net between two oak trees with Kevin’s assistance. Everyone was outside and awake, and the kids were all seated up on your house’s back porch munching on the watermelon that Yuna cut for them.

You tightened the string on one side of the net. “So he didn't kiss her?” You queried.

Kevin sputtered a laugh, yanking his side to test its integrity. “Yeah,” he said. “Isn’t it so funny? According to multiple sources, Sunwoo and Chanhee barged in at the perfect moment, and frankly—” Kevin raised his arms up in the air and let them fall for effect, “—ruined the moment.”

"Pfft.” You considered that for a moment. An almost kiss ruined by a comedically timed interruption from a guy drunk off liquor and love, and the friend tasked with dumping his ass at home. That was bad luck if you ever heard it. “And what about that other dude? The Hyunjae guy? Did he finally fix his eyesight?”

Your friend leaned back against his oak tree, ankles crossed over the other and arms braided over his chest. A pair of shades rested backwards on his head to complete his summer-worthy ensemble of shorts and T-shirt. “His literal eyesight is still shit, but yeah, he and HJ!Yn are together now. Took for-fucking-ever, but—”

“Language!” Jin yelled like a referee on the sideline of a soccer match. “We have children in the vicinity.”

Kevin brushed a hand through his hair. “Whoopsies, sorry!” He turned back to you. “Anyways, yes, they are finally together. Man, having someone watch my cursing makes it seem like Jacob is here with me.”

You noticed the fond twinkle in his eyes as he stared out at the still waters of the lake just down the way from you both. “You talk about this Jacob guy a lot,” you said to him. “I think I need to meet the person who’s threatening to knock me off the best friend pedestal.”

“He already has,” he jested.

You let out an indignant squawk. “Hurtful!”

Connor, watermelon juice smeared all around his mouth, added rather unnecessarily, “So you don’t want a partner and you don’t have friends. What do you have, Yn?”

You leveled a scowl at him. “An annoying little brother.”

“Hey!”

In a tone dryer than the Sahara Desert, Alice chimed in, “Guess that makes me the favorite twin.”

“I should tell you about Sangyeon. I need to yell about Sangyeon,” Kevin huffed indignantly, snapping his fingers as if the thought just hit him. You whipped your head back over. “Oh my god, dude, you know what happened at the graduation ceremony? It was like, straight out of a scene from a movie—!”

You never got to find out what was just like it was out of a movie, because your mom appeared in the distance with the Hongs. They all came wielding badminton racquets—how convenient. You didn’t mind the extra company, of course, and despite your stubbornness, you knew Joshua and his family were very nice people.

You caught the tail end of your mother’s conversation with Josh and his mom: “...Yn used to play badminton on the high school team. She could’ve gone to the Olympics if she really wanted to—”

Well, that was only partly true. Your team had gone to Nationals, but the Olympics was one step above Worlds. You liked to think you were pretty good at the sport, but you hoped your mom wasn’t talking up you and your abilities too much.

“Oh, wow. I’m a soccer person myself,” said Joshua good-naturedly. “I don’t really know much about badminton, but it seems like a really fun sport.”

"Yn's a great teacher. She taught the twins how to play." Ah, there it was.

When they were within a comfortable distance, you raised your hand in a wave. "Hi hello!"

"Hello Yn," Joshua's mom said back. "Hi Kevin."

Kevin dipped his head with a smile. "Hi Auntie."

"Yn-ah," said your mom as she took you by the arm, dragging you over toward Joshua, "I was just talking to Josh about how good you are at badminton."

Your eyes widened slightly, and you noted the way Joshua's did the same. You made eye contact with Kevin as this happened. He seemed caught at a crossroads, unable to help or say anything. "I guess I'm okay at it."

"Liar," Kevin suddenly jumped in.

You sent him a look. Wait really?

He shrugged sheepishly. "I don't wanna downplay your abilities, dude. You're really good."

Oh. "Thanks, Kev," you said, blinking. Your heart warmed at the finger guns he sent your way. It was nice to know he had your back.

"Good! See? You and Josh should play doubles together." Your mother somehow got a racquet into your hand. She clapped her hands and ushered her two other children off their butts. "Come on, you two, you can be on Kevin's team."

"But that's not what doubles means, Mama—"

Joshua sidled up beside you with an apology in his smile. "Sorry, you don't have to do this if you don't want to. I don't want you to be forced to teach me or anything."

Guilt wormed itself into your stomach. "No, no! It's totally okay," you amended swiftly. "This all just happened really quickly, but I'd be so down to teach you badminton, if you'd like."

He bobbed his head up and down, patting the netting of his racquet. "Okay, yeah. That'd be really cool actually."

You nodded, returning his expression. "Cool."

You and Joshua had somehow taken over the makeshift badminton court. The twins had gotten tired of the "big kids" playing too hard, and Kevin… actually, you didn't know why Kevin put down his racquet. But at some point, you noticed that he was just hanging out in a chair, sipping some kind of fruit juice as he observed you and Joshua. (That was what you assumed he was doing. There was a book propped open in his lap, but you hadn't seen him turn a page in a while. And he had put his sunglasses on, so you couldn't exactly see what his eyes were doing.)

You tracked the birdie as it flew over the net to your side. "Nice!" You praised, taking a few steps in the diagonal to hit the birdie back over with an easy backhand flick.

Joshua stumbled forward, but hit it back over. "Shoot," he said, barely catching himself before he crashed into the netting.

You chuckled, "Careful." You backed up and gave the birdie a gentle bump.

It sailed over the net, but it landed too close to it for Joshua to get a clean shot back over. He sighed as he bent down to pick the projectile up from the grass. "Dang. Nice hit, Yn."

Content with your shot as well, you walked over to the net to meet him. "Thanks, man."

"Hyungseo-ah!"

You watched as Kevin stood up from his chair at his mom's call. "Yeah, what's up?"

As she strolled over to him, she was reapplying sunscreen onto her arms and face. "We have more new neighbors. Since you're not doing anything, you should come and welcome them with me. There’s someone I think you should meet."

You and Kevin locked gazes for a second before he turned back to his mom. You didn't know why you kept looking at each other—this all felt like déjà vu, but maybe it was the fact that it seemed like your moms were separating you both instead of bringing you together that was throwing you off.

"Uhm, sure, Mom." He dropped his book into his seat and followed after his mom.

Your gaze trailed after him for a moment before you snapped back to reality. You swiped the sweat off your forehead with the back of your hand. "Sorry, where were we?"

Just then, Seokjin made his way down the lakeshore with baby Leena strapped to his chest again. He threw up an arm in greeting. "Hey, kids. You guys still at it?"

"Yup," you said back. "He's getting good at it!"

Joshua laughed lightly. "Ah, you flatter me. It's just 'cause Yn's a good teacher."

Seokjin's eyes flickered between the two of you. "Huh. I'm sure she is."

"Anyways," you coughed. "Did you just come from the new neighbor's house or something?" He hadn't arrived from the direction of his own house, which was on the other side of yours.

Your uncle by association gave his affirmative, one hand pressed gently on the back of his baby in his holster. "Of course! You know I'm too nosy to not have gone to introduce myself and see what's up. The couple has a girl around your age, Yn-ie. Their son is off in Paris for his job or something though."

The two men could probably see the gears in your brain turning. Another person who was around yours and Kevin's age? You really didn't want to read too much into it, but—you pushed the thought to the side. It probably wasn't what you were thinking, right?

"Uh, you good, Yn?" Joshua asked.

Your eyes shuttered. "Yeah. I was just thinking about something." You gestured with your racquet in a flourish. "How about another round?"

EPISODE FOUR: THE DAMSEL IN DISTRESS DEAL™

THE crickets were particularly melodious tonight. Their chirrups became lovely background music as you perched on the stairs of your back porch beneath the warm glow of the outside light. Moths swarmed the bulb, casting little shadow puppets along the wooden deck.

You were hunched over one of the few books you brought along with you for the trip. Your siblings liked to tease you for bringing “school work” on a summer trip, but these had been purchased out of your own interest. It was an anthology of experiences related to animal behavior. The certain piece that had originally caught your eye had been about the Alaskan husky’s primal nature to run, and their participation in dog sled racing. You’d come across it originally in a magazine on an airplane, finding yourself enthralled in a story of the stamina, determination, and hard work that these dogs faced in the brutal Alaskan winters.

When your plane landed, you had gone online and found more stories like them. Thus, the book in your lap and money down the drain. (Though, you would argue that it was money well-spent.)

“Warm night out.”

You startled, heart galloping in your chest, as Kevin appeared in your periphery and stepped into the light.

To his credit, he took on a sheepish sort of grin. “Oops, sorry. Probably should have given a warning or something.”

You pressed a hand to your palpitating heart and scooted over to give him room to sit on the step next to you. “No, it’s all good. I don’t think there was really any way that you could have warned me.” You were probably way too deep into your book to have even noticed if he was any quieter.

He took a seat beside you, posture mimicking yours with his forearms pressed onto his knees. “You’re right,” he murmured. “Whatcha reading?” He asked while inclining his chin toward the pages in your lap.

“Oh.” You kept a couple fingers wedged between the pages you were on as you flipped to the cover to show him. “It’s just this, uhm, collection of stories on animal behavior. Real fascinating stuff, actually, and a lot of it is kind of inspirational.” You tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, unsure of why you were always shy about telling people about something you were passionate about. You shouldn’t have thought so little of Kevin Moon, though. He never gave you any worries about being judged.

“Oh, that sounds neat,” he said, scooting closer. “Is it for your major? You’re still doing wildlife biology, right—or is it ecology?”

“Wildlife biology,” you confirmed. “It’s not for my major or anything, no. Just something I was interested in.”

A thought suddenly occurred to you and you were rewinding all of the things that had happened in the past couple of days. Before Kevin could comment further on the topic of majors, you piped up, “Actually, I wanted to talk to you about something.”

His eyes widened a smidge, his posture straightening. “Oh? What about?”

You felt around the porch deck for the receipt you had been using as a makeshift bookmark, hand flopping around before you snatched it up and slipped it into the pages of your book. You set the book aside. “Is it just me, or are our moms… you know…”

“Doing the Thing again?” He finished. He sighed with a little grimace, “Yeah, I think I’m seeing it.”

The “Thing” that both you and Kevin were referring to was none other than the very act of matronly matchmaking taking place between you and the new kids on the block. At least you could confirm that you weren’t overthinking it.

You recalled the events of earlier today when Kevin and his mom had come back to where everyone else was with the new family that had just arrived. The Xus were another party of just three—their oldest son was in Paris, as Seokjin reported, but their youngest, Serena, was yours and Kevin's age. It didn't take a rocket scientist to figure out who Kevin's mom wanted to introduce her son to.

“You know what’s crazy?” You said to him then, “On the car ride up here, I asked my mom—like, point-blank, you know?—to not try to matchmake us anymore.”

Kevin perked up. “Dude. That’s crazy, because that’s what I asked my mom on the car ride up here.”

You sputtered, “You’re kidding.”

“Great minds think alike,” he said, lip curling upward into a smile and his arms coming up in a halfhearted shrug. “But I should have known it wouldn't be that easy.”

Now that you were thinking back to your own conversation, you should have known something fishy was going on when your mom mentioned Kevin specifically… You only thought that she was being thorough in her understanding of what you were asking her to do, but turned out, it was only a loophole. “You’re so right,” you groaned and tilted your head backward. “Literally what are we gonna do?”

The two of you stewed in silence on this fine night.

There was one night, similar to this one, where you had sought each other out. You couldn’t remember what year it was—something close to sixth grade when both of you had the mind to realize the game your moms were trying to play. From that night came a pact of sorts, one that would hopefully try to steer each other away from a fate that neither of you were sure that you wanted yet. After all, eleven years old was a little premature to be talking about who you wanted to spend the rest of your life with, right?

Kevin leaned back onto his palms. “We need to make a new pact, I think.”

Your head swiveled over to him. “Amendments to the pact?”

“Either amend it or come up with a new one to fit our current situation,” he said. “A rescue protocol.”

A rescue protocol… you could see it begin to take shape in your head. The previous pact was different—an agreement between you and Kevin that you were both simply friends, no matter how many times your moms made you do chores together, or tie each other’s shoelaces, or swap numbers and emails and social media. And it had worked, for the most part; you were both still friends after all these years.

But this time would have to be different. Your moms weren’t driving you toward each other anymore.

“The Rescue Protocol—is that what we’re calling it?” You mused in an attempt to bring mirth to the conversation.

Kevin made a sound like a laugh. “Better than ‘the pact,’ I like to think.”

“How about the ‘Damsel in Distress Deal?’”

He let out an actual laugh this time. You got to watch his eyes turn up into crescent moons, the corners crinkling with pretty smile lines. His smile was always contagious, even after all this time. “The ‘Damsel in Distress Deal?’” He parroted. When he allowed the phrase to soak into his brain for a second, tongue massaging his bottom lip, he relented. “Okay, that’s actually not bad.”

You giggled. “So we either call it the Rescue Protocol or the Damsel in Distress Deal, trademark.”

“Trademark?” His reaction sent you into a flurry of snickers, hand clamped over your mouth so the sounds wouldn’t wake up your family. “What? Are we gonna advertise this idea to people?” He chuckled.

“It’s a good idea!”

“We don’t even know what the parameters are yet,” he sputtered. Kevin lightly punched your upper arm. “Silly goose.”

“Geese are not silly,” you found yourself replying. They could be mean creatures. “But I think they’re cute.”

“Jacob thinks they’re scary.”

You gave a playful roll of your eyes. “This Jacob guy again?” After a moment, you sighed, toeing the dirt on the bottom step with the tip of your shoe. “Hey, can I ask you a question?”

Kevin sobered a little, but the remnants of his merriment remained in the shine of his irises. “Shoot.”

“Are you…” You struggled to string the words together. There was a question you’d come up with already, but you didn’t know if it was too forward or not. “Are you ready for a relationship?”

The question caught him off guard. His gaze flickered from you, to the grass, to his lap, to the moon-soaked surface of the lake further down the hill. “I… I’m not sure, really,” he muttered, then added, “I think I would know the right person when I meet them.”

“Yeah,” you agreed.

“Or maybe not,” he shrugged. “Maybe I’ve already met the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, but the relationship just hasn’t gotten there yet.”

You pondered on that for a moment, then realized you agreed with that, too. If you already met the person you were meant to be with, the thought of a relationship was a little less daunting. You already knew this person. “So we’re in agreement then? This new pact is something we both want?”

“As usual, we are in agreement,” he nodded. “What’s our plan then? Fight fire with fire?”

You snorted. “Pretty much, right? We just have to, you know, swoop in whenever we can to counteract their movements. Help each other out, y’know?” You laughed at how ridiculous this all sounded. “I guess it’s really just doing what they’ve wanted us to do this whole time.”

Kevin grinned to himself. “Spend time together?”

“Yeah.”

“I’m down for that. You?”

“Yeah, man.” You shifted to angle your body toward him and stuck your hand out. “You still remember it, right?”

Kevin sent you an incredulous look, as if offended that you could think so lowly of him. He reflected your angled body, hand primed and ready. “Uh, yeah. Do you remember it?”

You clicked your tongue. “Of course, I do! It's the seal."

You knocked the back of your hand against his to signal the beginning of the handshake.

Like second nature, the two of you made your way through the unnecessarily (but also completely necessary) convoluted masterpiece that was your sixth grade handshake. It was what you used the first time you sealed the deal on the pact, and whenever you made any other agreements of significance (e.g. the Juice Pouch Accord of Eighth Grade). Now, it would seal the Rescue Protocol/Damsel in Distress Deal, too.

When the handshake combination finished (marked by twin flicks to the forehead—"Ow! You always flick so hard.”; “Yikes, hope that doesn’t leave a mark…”—and a… proper handshake), the only thing left to do was put it into motion.

Teasing, you sent him a look of approval. “You did remember.”

“Funny how you say that as if you have the better memory out of the two of us,” he quipped back with an unimpressed look.

You hummed your own amusement back to him, taking the book that you’d set aside earlier back into your lap but leaving it unopened. There wasn’t any signal in this area, so devices were practically useless, so books and board games and sports became the go-to for entertainment. It was what your parents originally liked so much about the place, and eventually you and your siblings. It allowed for moments between the moments like this… whatever this was.

Kevin leaned back onto his palms again, and the shadows and moonlight cut across his jawline like glass. “I didn’t think you’d be up so late.”

“Yeah,” you drawled and picked at a strand of grass sticking out between the boards of a stair step. “I couldn’t sleep for some reason and decided to read, but then I opened my window and realized it was a nice night out, so here I am.” You nodded to him, “You?”

He gave a soft sort of chuckle. “You know I never sleep.”

Your chest felt heavy all of a sudden. “Still have the sleeping issue?” You asked softly. It had been a big thing when he was a kid. It had started off as being a very light sleeper, but over time, you discovered that sometimes Kevin just did not get sleep.

“Yeah…” he said, "I'm usually able to sleep when I'm here though, y'know? The peace, the quiet, the familiarity—it all helps. It was just tonight that was out of the ordinary." When he glanced over at you, the side of his lip quirked upward. "Don't worry too much."

You'd always thought about the lake as your home away from home, your safe space. A part of you had always thought it was the same way for him.

“How could I not worry?" You asked, poorly masking your concern as you leaned over your knees and looked at him. “How did you ever get used to your place at uni?” There must have been some reason that he was able to survive over there.

The corners of his mouth curled upward into a smile. “I was lucky,” he admitted. “I met people who have become some of my best friends and family. I guess it’s just weird being so far away from them and it's catching up to me.”

As much teasing as you did about this Jacob character, you were glad Kevin had found him and his other friends. Being away from home like that could not have been easy. At least you could rest assured that he was taken care of over there.

He had grown so comfortable over there that even his subconscious missed them.

You shifted a little closer to him and gently leaned your head onto his shoulder. He seemed surprised at first, but relaxed and let you keep your head there. “That’s good,” you whispered. “I’m happy for you.”

A beat passed, and the crazy thought occurred to you that maybe you should have asked to do this first. “Is this okay?”

His hand warmed the top of your head. “More than okay.”

The two of you sat there like that for however long—you couldn’t really tell. Time passed by differently here, it seemed. Friends definitely comforted each other like this though, right? Right.

EPISODE FIVE: [SHENANIGANS ENSUE.]

"KEVIN, would you mind giving this snack pack to Serena?"

"Oh, I got it, Auntie!" You snatched the Ziploc bag of trail mix from off the counter where Kevin's mom had set it out. "I haven't properly introduced myself to her yet," you said as some kind of explanation.

Out of the corner of your eye, you saw Kevin look away to conceal his laugh at your inconspicuousness.

Today, the five families planned to go on a long nature hike as a large group. There was a specific path that your family, the Moons, and the Kims always took at least once every year that led out to a waterfall. It was a beautiful slice of nature, but then again, you thought this entire area was beautiful.

You swung out of the Moons' kitchen and out onto the back lawn where everyone was slowly gathering to take off. Eyes scanning the immediate area, you located Serena Xu standing off to the side plaiting her hair into a simple braid over her shoulder.

As you made your way over to her, your Uncle Jin suddenly appeared beside you. “You look like a woman on a mission, Yn-ie. What’s the sitch?”

Your brain took a second to register the reference. “Has Sana been watching Kim Possible or have you, Uncle?”

“And if I said it was both of us?” He sniffed. Sana was his eldest daughter, only three years old, but Jin and Yuna were very updated in the essential kids shows they wanted their daughters to watch.

“As you should,” you said with an indulgent nod. You turned your gaze over to your intended target.

Serena’s eyes wandered up from her hair and met your eyes, then glanced over at Jin. You hoped she didn’t think the two of you were ganging up on her or anything. Two new people at once could be intimidating.

“Hi, Serena, right?” You asked as you and Jin approached her.

She gave a small nod, pulling her braid’s end over her shoulder as she fidgeted with it. “Uh, yeah. And you’re Yn?”

“We already met yesterday,” Jin said chipperly.

Serena nodded again.

Your fingers danced along the edge of the Ziploc baggie in your hands, squeezing along the edge to make sure that it was closed properly. Your teeth ran over your bottom lip before you were passing her the bag in your hands. “Kevin’s mom made all of us snack bags, and I just wanted to say a proper hello.”

She accepted the bag, eyes wide as she inspected its contents through the clear plastic. “Oh, wow. Thank you; that’s really thoughtful.”

“Oh!” Seokjin illuminated like a lightbulb, clapping his hands loud enough to make both you and Serena wince. (You and she met each other’s eyes with awkward laughs.) “Didn’t you mention yesterday that you were pre-law?”

Your eyebrows flew upward. “Pre-law?” Your head bobbed up and down with a low whistle. “That’s cool.”

“Yeah, uh, I guess so,” she said. “It’s a little intimidating right now, if I’m being honest.”

“Yn!” Ripped out of the conversation, you excused yourself and found the source of your name. Your mom was perched on one of the picnic benches outside of the Moons’ place, slathering sunscreen on your brother’s face. Connor’s face was wrinkled in extreme displeasure as she patted the white cream into his skin with a slapping sound.

Always amusing.

Perched upon the picnic table next to them was none other than Joshua Hong. He sent you a friendly greeting wave.

“What’s up?” You asked, leaving Uncle Jin with Serena so you could make your way over to your chagrined little brother, your mom, and Joshua. “Where’s Dad and Alice? Hey Josh.”

He replied pleasantly, “Hey Yn.”

“Your dad’s grabbing something from the car with her,” she dismissed. “Would you mind showing Joshua where we put our bandages? We have so many of the little ones—”

“It’s just a little cut; I swear I’m fine!” Joshua chuckled good-naturedly. He showed you the slice in the side of his finger that was only a couple of centimeters long, but you could tell that he’d just recently cleaned it up and was holding it with a small piece of napkin.

Your mom made a noise of disagreement. “It’s going to get infected on the hike.”

You shuffled on your feet, offering him a small smile. “Sorry, man. I have to agree with her.”

“Thank you. You remember where the bandages are, right? You and Josh just go run up really quick together.”

You didn’t even realize when Kevin got here. “Oh, why don’t I just get one from my place for you?” Kevin waltzed into the conversation with an innocent expression, hands tucked into the pockets of his shorts, as he appeared at your side. “Since we’re just right here.”

Joshua gestured toward him with his hand-clutching-hand situation and hopped off from the picnic table top. “If you don’t mind.”

“Yeah, dude, it’s no problem.” Kevin’s hand met the place between your shoulders with a warm pat, and he led Joshua up to his family’s cabin for the bandages.

Your amusement followed after them as you watched them leave. Your mom sent you a curious look, eyes narrowed in question, and you could only shrug helplessly.

The hike commenced shortly after the boys got back from raiding the Moon’s medicine cabinet. Your dad and Alice returned sometime before they did, and Alice had once again requested you put her hair up in, as she said, “Something nice.” As if the wilderness would care about her nice hair-do, but you gave her a plait that matched Serena’s.

Your brother and sister kept near to you as you led the group through the beginning of the trail. Though you didn’t consider yourself as someone who exercised religiously, you never turned down a good foraging session. Your freshman environmental science course had presented you with plenty of opportunity to dive into the dense forest areas near the building. Even in the early reaches of the morning (8:30 morning labs were sometimes difficult to be disciplined about, but you were determined), when the fog clung to the forest floor and dew slipped down velvety oak leaves, you found yourself at peace.

At some point in time, Connor picked up a large fallen stick and used it as a hiking staff. “You shall not pass!” He declared after running a little ways ahead of you and mimicked the deepness of Gandolf’s voice.

You snorted as you passed by him and ruffled his hair. “Name the series that’s from and then we can talk, dude.”

“You’re never any fun!” Connor garbled, jogging after you.

You scoffed, pressing a hand against your chest in feigned offense. “I’m way more fun than you are,” you retorted.

“Okay, prove it! Make this more fun.”

“So you’re saying this hike isn’t fun?” You gasped.

Connor stabbed at the dirt path warn into the ground that weaved through the trees ahead for miles. It was by no means a challenging hike, just a lengthy one that required a bit of enthusiasm and endurance. “Well last time, you brought that thing—”

“Sugar water,” you supplied.

“—yeah, that one—and we caught butterflies!” Painted Lady butterflies were a common species of butterfly that was widespread among North America. Luckily, it hadn't been too difficult to find them.

“Woah, you guys caught butterflies last year? Without me?” Man, this guy was just everywhere today, you thought jokingly, as Kevin appeared on your other side with a boyish grin on his face. “That’s cool.”

“We didn’t catch them,” you corrected. It was more so a lure with the sugar water (a substitute for nectar), letting the kids see the insect up close, and then setting it free. You were no lepidopterologist—butterflies were cool, but no special interest of yours. “They just landed in my hand for a little. You should’ve been there to take pictures.”

Kevin hit the palm of hand against his forehead. “That’s what I forgot! I forgot to bring my camera on the hike.”

“Tsk tsk, what would your sister say now?” You chided playfully.

He pressed his lips together in a grimace. “Don’t bring her up—I can hear the echo of her voice as we speak.” To prove his point, he pressed his fingers to his temples, eyes fluttering closed, as if he really could hear his sister’s teasing from wherever she was.

You humored him with a laugh—

“Yn! I’m gonna climb that boulder!”

Okay, fun time was over. You tracked the sound of your brother’s voice, and with barely enough time to catch up to him, you set off the beaten path to follow. “Hey, you better be careful or Mom’s gonna put you on bedrest for the rest of the trip,” you chuckled as Kevin fell in step beside you. You said to him offhandedly, “Would you possibly mind…”

“Yeah, I got it.” He did a small jog over to the cluster of boulders your brother had begun to scale. Going bouldering wasn’t a new activity for you and your siblings, but you remembered that these ones were a little larger than your mom was usually comfortable with. You were grateful Kevin understood immediately.

He was already standing below where Connor was, playing along with whatever roleplay your brother had made up, all the while hovering in case he fell.

The rest of the party caught up to you at this point, and Alice, Uncle Jin, Sana, and even Josh converged upon the rock formation in a flurry of giggles and mirthful playtime. You observed the action with ill-concealed fondness for everyone there as they came together and helped one another climb to the topmost boulder as if it were the peak of Mount Everest. Something warmed within you at the sight.

On your left, Yuna, who was on Leena duty this morning, came to stand beside you. Some of the parents were pulling out cell phones to record all the chaos going on. “Why don’t you go up with them?” She asked, inclining her head to the rock formation.

Josh was just beckoning Kevin up with him, and you saw Kevin’s head turned back over his shoulder. When his eyes found yours, Kevin waved you over, too.

“I should,” you murmured in agreement.

Yuna hummed as she adjusted the little bonnet on Leena’s head. “You know, Kevin…” she began. You waited for her to finish, but she smiled instead, shaking her head. “Nevermind. Go have fun, you bean.”

You giggled at the nickname, then wasted little time going to join everyone else. You could probably ask her what she was going to say later.

The evening found the group of you gathered on the shady back lawn between yours and the Moons’ cabin for dinner once again. The Xus and Hongs had all retired to their own respective houses for downtime, so it would just be the three original families. You perched a little ways away on the back stairs of your house’s porch, a bowl of peelable tangerines in your lap. At your feet, you had rolled the edges of a brown paper bag you’d found beneath the sink to use as a disposal. All of the compostable waste you and everyone else produced while here would become great fertilizer and mulch. It was something you usually had your siblings help with, especially before you left the lake.

Kevin had his cap turned backwards as he made his way over to you in flip flops. “That seat taken?” He asked with a nod toward the board next to you.

Your eyebrows rose. “All yours.”

“Thanks,” he beamed, doing a silly waddle, then sitting down next to you. He reached into the bowl on your lap for an orange, and you moved the compost bag between your bodies. “Your mom was talking about Josh again,” he said as he dug his thumb into the skin of the tangerine. Its juices sprayed into the air and released its sweet fragrance.

“Why am I not surprised?” You sighed with a shake of his head. “You know, he’s really good with my siblings though.”

“Oh, is he?”

You shrugged, shoveling a tangerine half into your mouth. “Mm—yeah,” you said once you’d swallowed. “But you’re also good with my siblings. I dunno, it was just an observation.” Based on what you saw on the hike, you could confidently conclude that your siblings agreed with both Kevin and Josh. They were both friendly beyond means, easy on the eyes, kind on the soul.

Kevin didn’t say anything for a beat, and still didn’t say anything until he’d finished the orange in his hands and picked up a new one. “I hear he’s going into medicine. I have a friend who’s going into medicine.”

“Which one?” You asked, then joked, “Don’t tell me it’s Jacob now…”

When Kevin gave you a sheepish expression, you shook your head, “Okay, now I think you’re obsessed with this guy.” All the teasing was in good fun, of course.

“He’s just my soulmate,” he lamented with a hand draped over his forehead for added effect. “No biggie.”

“Damn,” you laughed. You popped a wedge of tangerine into your mouth, eyes going to the sky for a moment as you pondered on something. “So you say that when Jacob met his current girlfriend, it was because of you.”

“Yup.”

“So you set them up? You matchmade them?”

He nodded. “I’m very proud of myself, actually. I take credit for all of their milestones and anniversaries. I better be the Best Man at their wedding, and—”

“But you matchmade them; doesn’t that make you a hypocrite?”

Kevin’s speech came to an abrupt halt. You watched, in blatant amusement, as his face contorted and arranged itself in the five stages of grief. “Oh my god… I am a hypocrite.”

For a moment, you felt bad for laughing at his blanched expression. “It doesn’t make you a bad person,” you assured him.

“It makes me a hypocrite.” He hung his head, but shot back up just as quickly. “Okay, but wait! It’s different.”

“Do tell.”

“It’s different because Jacob never told me he didn’t want to be matchmade.” The calculations taking place in his head were as stark to you, the observer, as if he was working it out on a white board. His eyebrows knitted together. “Yeah. That’s the difference. Plus, that match was fully successful, and he ended up putting in a lot of the work himself by the end anyway.”

You bobbed your head in agreement. “Fair enough.”

Kevin settled his chin on his hand, eyes slicing back over to you. “Aren’t you a hypocrite, too, then?”

You blinked. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

His face said it all. “Jenna from fifth grade.”

Oh. It all came rushing back to you…

But before anything else could be commented on the matter (read: before you could go through your own miniature existential crisis like Kevin had), a presence appeared, squatting down between the two of you. “What—” Jin covered Leena’s ears as he sat down, “—is the mother-effing tea?”

You and Kevin immediately scooted over to make room for the uncle coming in hot. You moved the compost bag back to the other side of your leg.

Kevin chuckled. “You said ‘mother-effing.’”

“Aish,” he exhaled, wrinkling his nose up. “Yuna’s on relax mode right now and has two beers in her. I get a pass, okay? Now catch me up on all of the exciting stuff.”

You and Kevin traded glances. “What exciting stuff?”

Jin’s expression flattened into a deadpan. “Don’t be like that. You two have been so secretive lately; I wanna be let in on the secret stuff.”

“I don’t know if it’s necessarily a secret…” You drawled.

Kevin scratched the back of his head. “Uh, yeah. Well, we’ve kind of figured out that our moms are trying to set us up with Josh and Serena instead of each other now.”

You didn't know what you were expecting Uncle Jin to reply, but he gave a nod. "Ah, I can see that." He sucked in a breath through his teeth, "Why did they suddenly go 360 on the two of you? It seems kind of out of left field."

"Well, we kind of asked them to stop trying to get us two together."

Jin hummed. "Yah, that makes sense. It all makes sense now." He made an old-man noise out of his throat as he shifted his position and the way that Leena rested on his chest. You and Kevin buckled down and hung off his words. "They probably only mean well, you know that, right? Right. But I can see that you both are still uneasy about that, and I get that, too. So—I'll tell you what.

"I'll help you guys out," he said. "I think they already know I'm nosy enough to butt in everywhere, so it shouldn't be a problem for me to… tch tch, y'know—" He gestured very indulgently with his hands, "—do my thing—am I making any sense? It's been a long day."

Another look passed between you and Kevin, then you both shared a laugh, relief making your postures relax and your grins widen. "No, we understand completely."

It seemed like you just gained an ally.

EPISODE SIX: CAN I BE A ROCK IN MY NEXT LIFE? THANKS.

THERE was a collection of jet skis that someone around the lake owned, and Kevin's parents would rent them out once every summer for everyone to use. Of course, it was mainly for the older kids and adults; thus, your siblings and the little Kims were banned from partaking in the festivities, much to your siblings' chagrin. It was for safety reasons that they were forced to find some other method of entertainment for the day.

You trudged your way down the path from the Kims' house to yours. In your hand, you wielded the light blue stick of baby sunscreen Seokjin asked you to fetch for his girls, but based on the fact that Leena, Sana, nor Yuna were even out here, it was safe to assume it was really for him.

Those who were participating in riding jet skis, and some who just wanted to watch and soak up the summer sun, were gathered somewhere between your house and the Moon house again. The two properties shared a single dock made of wood faded out from the sun and washed by the lake water. You could recall summer after summer running down the pier and cannonballing into the water.

"Hey! I got your sunscreen!" You hollered as you neared the group down by the water, raising the sunscreen stick up in the air.

The five or so heads turned toward you at the sound of your voice. You didn't miss Kevin's presence specifically, his arms sticking out from the life vest strapped to his chest. You did not deign to look further.

Jin raised his hand. "My Savior! Thanks, Yn-ie!"

You tossed the sunscreen down to him and he caught it between both of his hands before beginning to slather the cream all over his face.

You noted the last life vest sitting on the edge of the dock closest to land and made a beeline for it.

Just as you descended the hill, your mom appeared in your view with an empty plate in her hands, the bottom ringed in a translucent red liquid. "Yn, honey. Can you do me a huge favor and chop up the last watermelon? I didn't realize we would need more. Your dad and Kevin's dad are driving into town right now for some extra provisions and an extra large watermelon."

"Oh, sure." Your eyes skittered to the vest on the dock, but you realized slicing the watermelon wouldn't take too long.

You took the plate from your mom without further comment and began making your way up the hill to your house.

As you slid the door open, the sound of chatter carried from the living room floor. Eyes peered up from where they were seated, surrounding the coffee table on the floor. A colorful array of beads and string was strewn over the surface, and you came to a distinct conclusion as to where all the non-jet-skiers had gone.

"Hello everyone," you mused, closing the screen door behind you.

Josh was the first to say hello back. "Wanna join us? We're making friendship bracelets." He lifted the craft in his hands as if the beads and materials displayed weren't proof enough.

You leaned over the back of the couch. "Looks like fun! Maybe I will."

Outside by the lake, Kevin monitored the back door of your cabin for when you would make your way back out. He had been wanting to race you on a jet ski ever since the owners brought them over for everyone to use.

There were a grand total of five people surrounding the opening to the dock: Kevin and his mom, your mom, Jin, and Serena. Everyone except for the moms were strapped in lifejackets in preparation to board one of the two jet skis sitting in port.

"Huh," Jin said as he craned his head up in the direction Kevin's was in. "Wonder what's taking her so long."

"I'm sure she's just taking her time or something." Kevin pushed off of the post he was leaning against. "I'll go check up on her—"

“Oh, no-no-no! It’s okay,” your mom protested, her body already turn-tailed to head up to the house. Even Kevin’s mom made a gesture for him to stay put. “We’ll go check up on Yn.”

Kevin’s mom then gestured with her arm toward Serena, who had wandered off further down the dock to inspect one of the vehicles waiting in the water. “Why don’t you go help her with the jet ski?”

“And me!” Seokjin boisterously slung an arm around his cousin-in-law’s shoulders and swung him toward the entrance of the pier.

Kevin’s eyes went wide when he almost tumbled face-first into the hardwood. “Shit,” he sputtered. “Uh, Uncle Jin?”

“Yep?”

“That sounded fishy to you, too, right?”

Jin let out a laugh and patted Kevin’s shoulder in consolation. “Yep.”

“I feel like I haven’t seen you all afternoon.” The words left your mouth as you blocked the unforgiving golden hour sun with a hand to your forehead. The light at this time of day gleamed across the surface of the lake and gave the illusion of a molten pot of gold. You imagined swimming in it, dipping your toes into its warm innards from the end of the dock.

Kevin stood at the edge of the lake’s shoreline with his hair dried from a day of jet skiing, a fresh T-shirt over his chest and the lifejacket from earlier nowhere to be seen. That, along with the jet skis. Those had been returned a little over an hour ago. “We were off doing our separate things, I guess,” he said, his arms folded across his chest. “Speaking of, where’ve you been? You went to cut watermelon and never came back.” He added a small laugh to his words, hoping you wouldn’t think he was bothered by the fact that the two of you didn’t get to hang out on jet skis together.

“Oh, heh.” The sheepishness in your voice made him glance over at you. You didn’t know why you were suddenly getting so shy about it, but from the pocket of your shorts, you withdrew a small piece of beaded string, tied at the end in one of those fancy loops that were adjustable. You didn’t know how it was done; Joshua had done something with the end like magic. “Yuna, Josh, and the kids were all inside making friendship bracelets and they kind of roped me into it.”

“Ah.”

“This one’s for you,” you said, holding it out to him. It was a quirky piece with white block letter beads strung together next to acrylic star and pony beads. You’d scavenged a crescent moon somewhere amongst all the pandemonium, and it sat next to the letter N on the chain.

Kevin peered at you and his irises gleamed with the brilliance of golden hour. He frowned in joy, delicately accepting the chain from you with his bottom lip jutted out in a combination frown-pout. “You’re incredible,” he gushed as he inspected the little gift. “Dude, I’m honestly so touched. This is so cute.”

You broke out into a grin, your heart bursting with pride in your chest. “Glad it’s not cringy.”

“I’m offended for you,” he scoffed, aghast. “How could you think this is cringy?” It was probably a genuine question, but you kept silent as you watched him loop the end of the bracelet around his wrist and struggled to figure out how to tie off the end with one hand.

You stepped forward, and he stuck his hand out to you. “Shua showed me how this works,” you murmured, wracking your brain for the quick how-to Joshua showed with his own wrist. (You had been too confused to ask him to see it done again, and only nodded and smiled.)

“Shua?”

“Mm, yeah, apparently he makes a lot of friendship bracelets, especially for friends at school.” Your tongue stuck out of the corner of your mouth as you tried something and… “Ta-da!”

With the bracelet secured onto his wrist, Kevin beamed like a kid on Christmas, and held it up to show it to the setting sun. “It’s great—it’s perfect. Thank you, Yn.”

It was some sort of cosmic magic that corralled everyone back down to the shoreline again, but this time, with all of the kids and non-jet-skiers, as well. Another tradition that your party liked to share every year at the lake was rock-skipping. Perhaps it was more of just an activity than a tradition, but it was something that none of you failed to remember to do whenever you were up here. Since you were a kid, you had been practicing to hone your technique.

Your siblings and the Kims, especially, all ran up to the shoreline beside you and Kevin, and the search for the perfect throwing rock began. In the chaos of merriment and childlike glee, the lot of you trudged into the cooling water of the lake’s shallow shore.

“I know you just gave me the coolest friendship bracelet ever,” said Kevin from beside you as he sifted through the rocks beneath his flip flops, “but I hope you know that I’m gonna crush you this year.”

You snorted. “Okay, Kevin.”

“No, I’m serious!” You guffawed at the sight of his expression; he’d even stood up straight in the water, a pair of flat stones in either hand. “My friend YH!Yn—she’s an engineer, right—”

“Oh, so you’re gonna win by cheating?”

“Nuh-uh,” he rolled his eyes, unimpressed by your posturing. “She showed me this video online. You know Mark Rober? She’s a huge fan, but that’s besides the point. The point is that the video taught me the perfect technique to rock-skip.”

Something in you liked to think that was still cheating, but then again, neither of you had ever really established any ground rules to this, and certainly none about doing research. Your eyes narrowed. “Explain yourself.”

Kevin decided between one of the two rocks in his hands with a brief peek at both of them, before discarding the one in his left hand back into the water with an anticlimactic sploosh. “You’re supposed to launch the rock so it hits the surface of the water at a twenty-degree angle.”

Joshua trudged into the water near both you and Kevin with the sleeves of his plaid over-shirt rolled past his elbows. “I don’t even know what kind of rock to look for, and you guys are bringing trig into this?”

“Oh my god, don’t even get them started,” Jin grumbled from a handful of meters away from the three of you. He kicked through the shallow water with his eyes pinned to the ground in his own search for a rock to skip. “Yn almost gave me a black eye one year.”

“That was an accident and I was ten!”

“Yeah, well rocks hurt!”

Joshua bent down slightly and scooped up a rock from the water. He considered it for a minute, taking in its size, its weight, and how pretty it was. “I guess this can work. So do you guys have, like, a training boot camp for beginners or something?” He chuckled.

“I can show you,” you offered once you’d decided on your own rock for the first round.

“Tch,” Kevin huffed, “if you wanna show him the wrong way to do it.”

Your jaw unhinged. “If you keep this up, I will take back that friendship bracelet, Moon Hyungseo.”

Jin covered his mouth with one of his hands and sidled up next to Joshua. “Ooh, she used the government name.” That coaxed another laugh out of the Los Angeles boy.

Kevin held his decorated wrist to his chest. “You can pry it from my cold, dead hands.”

Suffice to say that when it came down to it, Kevin did have the better technique. There were really four main things to consider when rock-skipping, one of them being that the rock ideally should hit the water at twenty-degrees, as Kevin had mentioned before. Though, you did have to give yourself some credit for managing to work your way up to thirteen skips in a row without the help of an engineer friend.

EPISODE SEVEN: ALWAYS TREAT YOUR PLANTS WITH CARE

VACATION granted you the express permission to be the laziest bum in the world. After three years of college work, sometimes it was nice to have even a single day to yourself to do what you always wanted to: relax. In a world that moved as fast as this one, it was nearly impossible to take breaks without feeling the aching guilt of a day without productivity.

But there was something about the lake… you didn't know. Maybe it was just because years of coming here and associating it with the ease and carefree air of childhood that made it easier to sleep in and feel the sun on your toes.

The house and the neighboring ones were quiet this late morning. At ten or so, the Kims had swept up your siblings and their children and towed them off to town for ice cream and provisions. (You hoped they remembered to grab you some bird seed. You still had yet to replenish the bird feeders around the lake.) You weren't sure where your parents were off to, but you recalled them briefly mentioning a visit to the hidden swing at Lookout's Peak about a three mile hike from here. That meant that you had the whole house to yourself.

And what else did that mean? That you would not be in the house.

When it hit noon, you ate a quick lunch at the kitchen counter before gathering up your supplies to head outside. There was always a spare picnic blanket stashed in the hallway closet, and you grabbed a book, your neglected sketchbook, and a pencil to come along with you.

The weather was perfect, you liked to think—temperate, and not popsicle-melting, with a hint of a breeze wafting through the boughs of the oak trees. You trudged your way over to the largest oak tree with the most amount of shade, gunning to get some full relaxing done when you realized that you were not as alone as you thought you were.

You and Kevin locked eyes from where he sat against the trunk of the tree, his iPad left at his side and his camera being fiddled with between his fingers. The friendship bracelet you gave him the other day still hung around his wrist.

"Hi," he grinned. "I thought you went into town with the twins."

"Ah, nah" you sighed pleasantly as you shifted the things in your arms, "I decided to sleep in. You?"

"Same here." He amended, "Well, as much as someone like me can sleep in." He gestured to the picnic blanket bundled over your arm. "How about I help you with that?"

With teamwork (because that made the dream work), the two of you laid out the picnic blanket on the shady grass beneath the oak tree, overlooking the view of the lake. You settled yourself atop it while Kevin moved his things beside you; shoes were discarded at the edge, so you both sat comfortably on the blanket, half-facing the other.

You reached for your sketchbook, inclining your chin toward the DSLR now sitting abandoned as he picked up his iPad. "What were you up to before I got here?"

"Oh, uh, just looking through some photos I took this morning to maybe use as a reference," he said, twirling his Apple pencil between his fingers. "I keep forgetting to take pictures on this trip."

"Maybe it's a good thing," you offered. You tucked a lock of hair behind your ear and flipped to a blank page. "Let's you live in the moment, y'know?"

"Yeah. I guess so." He tapped the end of his pencil against his cheek. You were never the type for fancy technology and equipment, mainly because you were a little stubborn, but nothing could beat a good pencil and paper. "I'm gonna draw you," he suddenly declared.

A giggle bubbled out of your chest. "What? Me?"

"Yeah, why not?"

"Well then, I'm gonna draw you."

His eyebrows shot up, an amused smile worming onto his face. "You do you, honey."

The two of you, coincidentally, came to share quite the handful of interests. One of them was sketching, and you liked to give credit to your ecology and biology classes at school that gave you the time to practice your drawing skills, even if super accurate drawings weren't always required. It just gave you an excuse to combine two things you loved.

You never did pick up how to use a DSLR though. At least, not like Kevin knew how to.

You sat there for a moment with your cheek to your fist and your eyes glued to the man across from you. Drawing people was difficult—it was always the subtle details that threw you overboard, the movement of the hands and fingers, the crevices in the wrinkle of one's eyes, the… the look. The thing that made them look like a human being.

Kevin had always been a beautiful subject matter. His bone structure was near perfect in your eyes; his smile was awful to draw just because it was so pretty, and you couldn't do it justice. You could never achieve the right curl of his lips, or infuse it with his humility. And even now, you watched the way his eyelashes fell so gently over his eyes and the dusting of pink falling across his cheekbones…

"You're staring."

You blinked, breaking out of your daze. "I'm studying my subject," you clarified pointedly and began to sketch out a rough outline of his head. A portrait would do just fine for the day.

Kevin mimicked your position from earlier where he leaned in slightly and rested his cheek against his fist. "There was this internship I turned down this summer."

His words made you glance up from your paper for a moment.

He continued on, straightening, then absentmindedly sketching out an outline for your face. "It was supposed to be in New York, at this studio, but…" He blew air out between his lips, "I don't know; I couldn't do it. It was a great opportunity and it didn't call to me, but I feel so guilty about not even trying."

You waited a beat in case he wanted to continue. You could see the conflict warring across this face, the subtle flex in his jaw at his frustration—with the portrait or himself, you weren't sure.

"Sorry, I don't know why I suddenly just thought of that," he said to you. "I was just thinking about this place and not being here last year, and I think my brain just went to that."

You looked over at him in earnest. "I feel you, I mean… some things just aren't meant to be, and you shouldn't force it. That's how you get burnt out, y'know?"

"Yeah," he murmured in agreement.

"I was looking at an internship, too," you piped up with a shape exhale. "I—I didn't get it, clearly, but uhm…" It still hurt.

Kevin frowned. "Oh, man. I'm sorry, Yn. I feel like I'm just complaining now that—"

"No, oh my gosh, no!" You hurried to interrupt him. "Don't be silly," you said gently, "you shouldn't invalidate your feelings like that. Some things just really aren't meant to be." It didn't mean it hurt any less that they weren't, but maybe this was the path you were meant to take instead. "It's something I'm coming to terms with, too, but don't compare your troubles against mine. Please."

He worried his bottom lip between his teeth, and it took him a little to finally try for a half smile. "You're gonna get the next one."

You smiled back at him. "Thanks. And you'll find one that suits you."

"I hope so."

"Do you ever worry about," you began as you played around with the slightest curve of his nose on your paper, "not being who people want you to be?"

He hummed. "What do you mean?"

"Like, successful. I'm not really sure where I'm going with this." You didn't know where this had sprouted from in the first place, but one insecurity in particular had nested in the inner cavities of your chest and made itself a home. As someone who wanted to be at wildlife encampments, not catering to fancy rich dogs in a clinic, your path wasn't conventional. You were becoming a veterinarian, but your parents always thought you would end up someplace nice with a pay that was equally nice. Something practical, something they didn't have to worry over. Your calling was… elsewhere though. Somewhere a little more difficult to reach without the prying eyes and mouths of those around you.

Kevin marinated on it. "I think… the two of us are kind of similar in that way. We're both not taking on things that people have expected of us."

Out of everyone you knew, you had a feeling he would be one of the few who could empathize. "There's—there's this thing I want to do," you said. You couldn't figure out the words to string your thoughts into coherent speech; you felt like it would never come out right. But Kevin was patient. "I've always wanted to go on safari expeditions, and observe wildlife in the wild, and do research, and work with conservatories. It feels so unattainable sometimes, when I think about the people looking at me and expecting something good. Does that make sense?"

He gave a thoughtful nod, his Apple pencil tucked behind his ear for the time being. "Yeah, that makes sense. I remember you talked about it before."

That rang a bell. "When I made you watch the David Attenborough Our Planet doc series," you mused. In association, your brain sparked images of late nights, blue-light screens, and flashlights beneath blanket forts. You had been fully convinced Kevin would say the documentary series would be boring like everyone else, but to your pleasant surprise, he had been just as enthralled as you'd been.

"You didn't make me," he smiled. "I liked it."

Your chest warmed. "I still have it downloaded on my phone if you wanna watch."

He screwed his face up in amusement, shaking his head. "You're one of the biggest dorks I know. And I know so many dorks now."

"I'm still your favorite dork though, right?" You smiled down at your paper when you were satisfied with how his eyes turned out.

"Always."

A beat passed, and from your periphery, you saw him tap the blanket in front of you to get your attention.

"Hey, you're gonna be okay," he said. "One day, you will go hide in a bunker in the Siberian winter to wait for tigers like a crazy person—"

"Okay, wait, out of all the examples you watched in the doc, you chose—"

"Anyways!" He grinned at the look you sent him, unfazed. "We're both gonna be okay, alright? We're chasing dreams, and sometimes the chase is hard, but the reward is sweet."

You knew he was right; of course he was right. Talking things out was always a good idea, especially with a trusted person, and who better to trust than Kevin Moon? You had friends who understood, but not really understood.

You reached for his pencil with the end of yours and you bumped ends like ET. The corners of your lips curled upward as you met his gaze, and you were struck by the softness in his rich, chocolate irises. No sketch, painting, portrait could do those beautiful eyes justice. "Don't call me a nerd for this."

"No promises."

You fixed him with a look. "There's this thing that plants do called phototropism. Because plants need light to synthesize into food and energy, they often turn and grow towards the nearest light source. So even in, let's say, a dark hole in the ground—if there's a crack in the roof that brings light in, the plant will grow in that direction, and probably grow its way out." You cleared your throat. "Thanks for showing me the light."

Kevin's eyes shone big and wide, doe-like you liked to say, almost in awe of the explanation of a basic function plants performed to survive. But twisted in a certain way, and one could apply it to everyday non-plant life, as well.

"Now how can I possibly call you a nerd after that?" His voice went raspy and he had to clear it, too. "I think I'm getting misty-eyed," he said, fanning his eyes.

You chuckled at his antics. "Oh, hush. I guess it's my way of saying thanks for reminding me I'm not gonna be a failure." It was scary how often you thought about it, especially at college.

Kevin reached over and warmed one of your hands with his. "You're not gonna be a failure, Yn. I promise you that."

All of the kids were asleep in the back of the Kims' minivan, and it took two trips back and forth between the car and the living room to transfer all four sleeping munchkins. By the time Jin and Yuna were done, the former was certain he was going to need a cane much earlier in his life than previously anticipated.

He held his back as they made their way out onto the back porch. "I think I'm aging faster," he said to his partner.

Yuna sputtered out a laugh. "Aye, so dramatic, and for what? You're gonna survive."

"No sympathy," he sighed melodramatically as he hung off her frame. "I wonder where everyone else is."

His voice trailed off as they stood on the porch and overlooked the valley below. Just further out, they could easily see the occupants of the big oak tree between yours and the Moons' houses. You and Kevin sat slightly angled toward one another, not quite sitting next to each other, but not quite facing each other either.

The laughter was apparent on your faces as Kevin showed you something on his iPad. You grabbed the screen with ill-concealed delight, your eyes lighting up like a pair of fireflies. "No, oh my god, the little sprout on top of my head! You didn't!"

Yuna murmured softly to her lover with a chuckle, "Should we go say hello?"

Seokjin adjusted his position so now his arm rested around her shoulders. A smile etched onto his face at the view; he was so fond of the very thing neither you nor Kevin could see just yet. "Well, how could you possibly want to break that up?"

EPISODE EIGHT: NOD AND SMILE… YUP.

YOU weren't really sure why it took so long before you all deigned to take a proper dip in the lake, but as they said, better late than never.

The sun beat down on the little lake population, even at ten in the morning, which made it perfect weather to go swimming. Your house was a-bustle with life, thunderous footsteps, and motherly yelling to her children of “You better all have sunscreen on!” You were just finishing up the task yourself, rubbing in the last handprint of sunblock onto your calf before you were grabbing your towel at the end of your bed and heading out.

You caught Alice coming down the stairs with her floral one-piece on and a set of blue goggles strapped to her head. This morning, her hair was in two braids. “Do you have sunscreen on?” You asked her as you opened the back screen door.

“Yes,” she groaned as if this was the hundredth time she’d been asked that question today. Knowing your family, it probably was the hundredth time. “Do we still have the flamingo floatie?”

“We can probably pop down to the shed and see,” you suggested. You blinked in surprise at the person you found leaning against the railing of your back porch. “Why hello there.”

Joshua glanced up from the piece of string in his hands that he had tied at the ends to form one, large ring. “Hi guys! Either of you ladies know how to play Cat’s Cradle?” His hands slipped in between the string so that the ring rested on the backs of his fingers. In a movement that sent a wave of nostalgia down your spine, he maneuvered his hands through the string to form the zigzag pattern correspondent with the beloved childhood game.

“Ooh! Me, me!” Alice bounced around on the balls of her feet and rushed over to where Josh was to pick out the next pattern.

The screen door behind you opened up again as soon as you stepped foot onto the deck. Your dad appeared with your little brother, both of whom were dressed in rash guards and swim trunks. Your dad hustled his son along. “Yn-ah, we’re going down to the shed to get swimming things. Wanna come?”

“Wait, Daddy, can we get the flamingo floatie?” Alice asked your dad. Joshua finished up the next pattern, and your sister was quick to grab the next.

“Sure. We have to go now, though.”

With little else left to say or do, your dad ferried your little siblings off and around the house to where the shed was. It was tucked out of the way somewhere between your house and the Kims’ place.

You sidled up beside Joshua and slung your towel over your shoulder, noting his tank top and shorts. “You going for a swim with us?”

He gestured to his attire, nodding. “Seems like it. My parents wanted to run into town to do some shopping, see the sights. Your mom mentioned last night that you all were planning to go swimming today, so I thought I’d tag along, if that’s okay.”

“Yeah, man—it’s totally cool.”

You gazed far out toward the lake down the lawn. There were already a few people there, including Kevin and the Kims. Sana and Leena were already frolicking around in the water with their dad, while Yuna and Kevin stood off to the side on the dock. It seemed that Yuna had brought down a pair of foldable chairs to set up there, perhaps to soak up a little sun.

The two of them exchanged a couple more words before Yuna left him there so she could go pick up Leena from falling face-first in the water. Leena was still an infant, after all.

You decided that this would be a good time to run and join him, but your thoughts slowed to a halt when Kevin picked up the bottom hem of his shirt and pulled it over his head. You even heard Joshua beside you lose his breath. The sunlight had to be a paid actor or something, because the way it glowed across your friend’s shoulders, enunciating the firm muscles in his back, had to be illegal in nature.

Joshua’s low whistle of appreciation met your ears. “Wow… he’s ripped.”

You nodded absentmindedly. “Yeah.” Whoops, did you say that out loud?

The man simply chuckled and bounded down the porch. “C’mon, Yn. Let’s go join them before he catches you staring.”

If there was anything else that you and Kevin took seriously besides rock-skipping, it was the game Marco Polo. The rules were simple: an elected tagger would play with their eyes closed, yelling out “Marco” in order to locate other players in the water. The tagger had three or five opportunities to open their eyes (this was enforced for safety reasons) in order to tag everyone. Those who were not the tagger were required to reply with “Polo” in response to the tagger’s call.

Boundaries of the game ranged from your house to Kevin’s house, and no hiding beneath the dock. (Only the tagger could pass beneath that zone.)

By the time it was Kevin’s turn to tag, nearly an hour and a half had gone by, and you could feel the sun’s rays seeping into you. The heat was getting to you, and by the looks on everyone else’s faces, it was getting to them, too. But… one last round never hurt anybody.

"Are you guys ready?" Kevin's mom stood on the dock with her hands on her son's shoulders. Kevin's eyes were screwed shut where he sat on the edge of the dock, his feet swinging where they dangled over the water. Everyone stood scattered in the water, biding their time before Kevin's mom let him hop in.

She surveyed the surrounding water for nods of confirmation. You lingered just at the outer edge of the boundary, face half in the water with your eyes peeking out to hide your smile. You would swim back in should he come this way, but the buoy behind you kept you from cheating.

When she was satisfied with what she saw, she patted him on the shoulders. "Okay, Kevin."

He lowered himself into the water. "Marco!"

"Polo," came the wary response, a voice from every corner and reach of the boundary, it seemed.

He honed in on a voice—not yours, it seemed, but Uncle Jin's—and slowly treaded over toward that direction. You saw your uncle's eyes widen in fear, and he ducked under the water for a swift second to attempt at a silent getaway.

"I can hear you," Kevin chuckled as he swung his arm over his head to adopt a freestyle stroke. The tone of his voice sounded awfully menacing.

"YAH! GET AWAY FROM ME!" Jin screeched, no longer trying to stay quiet.

One by one, Kevin picked people off. Yuna had a little disadvantage since she had Sana clinging to her back the whole time, so she was given a merciful second life. But when she was caught once more, it was onto dry land for her and her daughter.

Kevin treaded water on the other side of the boundary. In the water, it was just you two.

"Fighting, Yn-ie!" Jin cheered from the shore. A towel was draped over his shoulders with Sana sucking on a watermelon by his leg.

You saw your siblings and Josh raise up their fists in encouragement. "Get him, Yn!"

"Wow, thanks guys," Kevin replied dryly, shaking the water out of his hair. His eyes were miraculously still closed; you had no idea how and when he got so good at this. He still had one more opportunity to open his eyes.

You grinned. "Are you sure you're not cheating by the way?" You drawled with a feigned look of consideration, as if he could see what you looked like.

He gasped. "Me? Cheating? My abilities are far greater than the need to cheat."

"Okay, prove it."

Why did the universe curse you with such a big fucking mouth?

A swear left you as he launched himself across the safe zone. It was like he knew exactly where you had been hovering in order to reach his ridiculously long arms over his head to try and tag you. You gunned out of the way, narrowly missing the dock as you backstroked back from where he came to avoid him.

"Marco!"

"Screw you—polo!"

His white teeth glistened as he grinned, eyes closed completely shut still. Damn. "I can smell fear."

"Sometimes you can be so dramatic," you taunted.

"Now that's just hurtful." And he took it personally.

Around and around you both went, lakewater thrashing as your arms and legs kicked and pumped as hard as you could. You felt so agile and free at times, a dolphin in your own right.

There was a lull in the game for a minute when you managed to evade Kevin's grasp yet another time. He was patrolling the other side of the dock while you loitered just around the corner, by a post. You could hear on land that everyone had turned their attention away from yours and Kevin's competitiveness in favor of the bag tossing boards Kevin's dad brought out.

"Oh, Yn," he smiled, brushing a hand through his hair absentmindedly. "I'm gonna get ya."

If you weren't worried about being so close to him, you would have thrown a retort right back.

But there was another poor, poor hinge to your plan, and that was the very core of the game you were playing.

He whispered, "Marco."

You screamed internally. "Polo," you whispered, barely audibly.

His head whipped in your direction, and before you could even blink, he used his shortcut beneath the dock to yank your wrist back toward him. "Gotcha!"

"Goddamn it," you groaned as you rested up against the post behind you. The water in this area was just shallow enough that your feet could reach the bottom.

Kevin chuckled as he finally opened his eyes. He blinked feverishly to adjust to the sunlight, then ran a hand through his slicked-back hair. He was so close that you could see the water droplets on his head dribble down the sharp slope of his nose. He took in his surroundings, a sly kind of smirk curling up onto his face. "No hiding beneath the dock, Yn."

"I technically wasn't beneath the dock," you shot back.

"Mhm," he pressed his lips together, brows furrowing. He moved closer and braced one arm against the post above your head. "Say I believe you."

You brushed the sudden butterflies in your stomach away as the heat melted your brain (and not Kevin). "That sounds like you don't believe me."

"Well, either way…" He brought a finger close to your face and tapped your nose. You could have sworn you saw his eyes dart downwards for a second, away from your eyes, toward your mouth. "I win."

EPISODE NINE: KINDLING FOR ALL KINDS OF FIRES

A campfire was always in order.

There were quite a few things that needed to be done before it could happen, however. One of the few things on the list just happened to be going out to find firewood, as well as filling up the bird feeders you left hanging out in the forest beyond. You could kill two birds with one stone. (Definitely not literally though. You hoped you never needed to kill two birds with one stone unless it was for pure survival purposes.)

The bird seed you'd requested to be brought back was… somewhere around here. You couldn't remember where exactly Auntie Yuna said they put the bag, but you would go hunting for it.

You meandered through the first floor of your lake cabin, gradually approaching the kitchen area where you heard voices. As far as you were aware, your parents were holed up in the kitchen with Kevin’s parents, as well as Kevin himself. Your siblings were probably either upstairs or at the Kims’ place. Probably.

“—know Judy’s daughter, right?” You recognized your mom’s voice among the fray. By this time, you stood in the middle of the living room with your hands on your hips. Where in the world was that sneaky bag of bird seed?

Kevin’s mom replied next, “Ah, she’s doing that drawing major or something, right? I forgot what it’s called—”

“Animation,” supplied her husband.

“Yes, that’s the one.” A clinking of metal on china; they were most likely digging into the trifle cake that was assembled earlier in the day.

“I hear there’s something going on and it’s getting more difficult to find work for them.”

A disgruntled sound. “Yah. That's the risk that comes with those art majors. If she had gone into bioengineering like Judy wanted her to, then she wouldn’t be worrying so much.”

You paused from your position in the living room. From your vantage point, you got a clear view into only part of the kitchen, but it was where Kevin lingered with his back to one of the cabinets. He had a bowl of dessert in one hand, the other using the tines of his fork to prod at a bite of cream and cake. His head was tilted down though, and you caught his periodic glances toward the part of the kitchen you couldn’t see where the adults probably were, prattling on and on as if he weren’t standing right there.

Your heart sunk to the pit of your stomach.

Why was he subjecting himself to this? Why didn’t he just pick himself up and leave—? The thought came to you that maybe he thought he deserved to hear this.

Having surveyed the living room enough to know that the bird seed wasn’t here, you did happen to note the presence of his camera sitting on the coffee table. You snatched the device up and headed for the kitchen.

“I think it’s good to cultivate creativity, but there’s a difference between a career and hobbies—”

“Psst.” You grappled onto the side of the doorway, quietly catching Kevin’s attention.

His head perked up at the sound and his eyebrows shot up in question. He offered the bowl in his hands to you. Want some? He mouthed.

You shook your head, then used your free hand to wave him over. Bird seed?

He seemed to understand. With one, massive bite, he finished the rest of his bowl, deposited it in the kitchen sink, then quietly slipped out of the room with you.

When the two of you were in the clear and you were following him over to the closet beneath the stairs (damn, had you really forgotten that this closet existed?), you handed him his camera. “I’m invoking rescue protocol,” you told him.

Kevin accepted his camera with a furrowed brow, watching as you opened up the closet door and found a canvas sack of birdseed sitting there. Huzzah! “Wait, but…” He considered you for a moment, and a slow smile slid onto his face. He ducked his head and threw his camera strap around his neck. “I appreciate you. Have I told you that?”

“And I—” You grunted as you picked the bag up into your arms and used your foot to kick the door closed. “—appreciate you. How’d you know this was where the bird seed was?”

“I just remembered what Uncle Jin said,” he told you with a shrug.

The two of you meandered out of the backdoor and onto the porch in a silent agreement to go fill some bird feeders together. The forest at this time of day was streaked in golden sunlight, emerald green leaves painted over in an amber wash of glitter. It felt warm and comfortable like autumn, but with the color palette of summer. The air was fresh, not crisp, and there was still a dollop of pollen floating around in the air from the tailend of spring.

You and Kevin entered the forest proper, and you shifted the bag into your right hand when you finally got the bag’s handles up and at ‘em. “I know the protocol wasn’t meant for those kinds of situations,” you started.

Kevin let his camera rest in his hands at midriff once he had fiddled with the settings enough to his liking. “I know.”

“They’re wrong, you know?” You turned to look at him as you stopped at the first feeder and let the sack of seed and grain fall to your feet with a thump against the earth. Before you opened up the bag, however, you peered up into the wooden house hanging from the branch, slobbered in messy paints and melting smiley faces. There wasn’t a speck of grain or seed left in this one. Satisfied, you bent down to rip the bag open and take out a scoop with your hands.

The shutter of a camera lens fired. He sighed, lowering the camera so he could inspect the test shot he took. “I’ve come to terms with that—all of their opinions, I mean.” He lifted the viewfinder back up to his eye and took another shot as you shoveled the bird seed into the hole. A small stream of it missed and tumbled to the forest floor. “Sometimes I do think like that, though. Whether or not I should have stuck with psychology and become a teacher instead of photography.”

You folded the edge of the bag over itself after dusting your hands off, and the two of you continued onward. “Are you happy with photography though? Do you like the things you’re learning, the work you’re doing?” That was one of the few metrics that kept you clinging onto your dreams—your hands were getting scraped and sweaty holding onto the side of the cliff face, but even though your shoe slipped against the ledge and threatened a long drop, you held on. Some days, you thought it was a sad, desperate effort; others, you found extra strength to dig your soles in.

He didn’t have to think much before answering. “Yeah, I do. It’s… it’s fulfilling.” He shot you a glance. “I guess it’s something I enjoy so much that most days it doesn’t even feel like work. All of the logistic, ‘real world,’ adult stuff is kind of a headache, but…” Even though his sentence trailed off, you could still follow.

You plopped the sack of seed down on the ground beneath the next bird feeder. “I know that it’s hard to think about what-ifs, and I’m kind of a hypocrite about it, too—but I think—” you scooped up a handful of bird seed and poured it into the opening. This house had a little sunshine painted on the roof. “—Kevin, I think you made the right choice. Obviously, it shouldn’t matter what I think; that’s just what I’ve observed so far.”

“It matters what you think,” he replied quietly. “To me, at least.”

The two of you shared a smile as you dusted your hands off again. The chase is hard, but the reward is sweet—those had been his words to you the other day.

“Do you want me to carry that for you?” He mused, in view of your struggle to pick the damn thing off the ground.

You suddenly gained a spurt of strength and energy. “I’m—great.”

His low chuckle followed you as you went. You could hear his shutter go off again.

“Thank you for assuring me that I took the right risk.” Kevin fell into step beside you once more with his camera cradled in his hands. There was a softness to his eyes again, a kind of tenderness you recognized only when it was just the two of you.

You went for a smile. “I feel you, you know? Maybe not on the same level, but you’re not in crisis alone, okay?”

His shoulder bumped against yours. “Get on my level,” he jested.

Your smile haplessly curled up further. “Yeah, yeah, you five year old.” You leaned over his arm to peer at his camera screen. Your heart hammered, blood spiking, when you saw what the subject of all his shots had been thus far. “Oh my god, have you been taking pictures of me?”

He giggled at your reaction. "What? What else am I supposed to be taking pictures of?"

"Uhm?" You gestured with your arm in a wide arc. "There is literally a whole world around us. Nature is much more photogenic than I am." A nervous laugh bubbled out of your chest as you adjusted a lock of hair that had gotten in your face.

"You are totally photogenic," he scoffed. "Literally look."

The two of you stopped in the middle of the path so he could show you the pictures he had taken thus far. Like most people when they saw a picture of themselves, you wanted to grimace, but you tried to search for what Kevin was seeing.

They were all incredible candid shots. The color was so vivid and bright, the edges crisp and focused. He had captured you at the moment when you were smiling, peeking into the bird feeder. It was that split second before the smile bloomed into something bigger when it only teased at the corner of your mouth.

You leaned back and coughed. "I only look good because you made me look good."

"Now that's bullshit."

You both resumed your walk to the next bird feeder. He said to you, "You can't possibly appreciate nature's beauty without appreciating your own, Yn."

You tilted your head and sent him a sidelong glance. "Why did that sound actually profound?"

"What do you mean actually profound?" His face arranged into an expression of offense. "Am I not regularly profound?"

You smiled to yourself. "I mean… if you had to ask—" Click! "Hey, now wait a minute!"

He beamed something boyish at you from over his camera lens. "Whoops?"

The bird seed bag thumped onto the forest floor again and you moved to check the inside of the next bird feeder. To your utter delight, you were greeted by the sight of sticks and mud and leaves slotted together in a messy riffraff, otherwise known as a bird's nest. You could hear the bright chirping coming out from the feeder's hole, and dark gray feathers poked out.

"We won't disturb these ones," you whispered, backing away to collect your bird seed. But before you left, you took a little of the grain to sprinkle on the outer landing ledge.

You didn't even realize you had been smiling out of pure giddiness until you reached the next feeder on the path. You had always secretly hoped that a bird would take over one of the houses as their own. Lo and behold, that hope manifested into reality.

Kevin helped you out with the next one since this tree was hung with a duplex. It was similar to a human duplex; the house was split down the middle to hold double the feed. The two of you carefully transferred seed and grain into its proper place.

"If you really are uncomfortable with me taking pictures of you," he said as the two of you picked up where you left off, "then I can totally delete them." He made a gesture with his hand. "No harm, no foul."

Heat rose to your cheeks. "It doesn't bother me that much," you admitted sheepishly. "They were good pictures."

"See!" Elated, he slung an arm around your shoulders and tugged you against his side with an affectionate shake. "You see the vision? Do you see it now?"

You couldn't possibly say no to him when his expression was brighter than the sun at high noon. At this moment—this perfect moment—when the sunlight streaming through the trees painted his face in a filter of buttery gold… you could definitely see the vision, but perhaps not the exact one he saw.

EPISODE TEN: YOU WOULD NOT BELIEVE YOUR EYES…

"OH, thank god, you guys went and got firewood!" Jin pressed his hands together in prayer as he jogged over to you and helped transfer the lumber in your arms over to his. On your way back from replenishing the bird feed, you let Kevin hold the remainder of what was left in the bag while you picked up any spare tinder for the fire. There were quite a few loose sticks around that would work nicely for the campfire tonight.

He walked off with your gatherings from the trip, and you and Kevin continued up to your lake house to drop off the bag of bird seed.

"So you were saying about the animal representation thing?" You piped up, recalling where the two of you last ended before your return to home base.

"Oh!" Kevin grinned. "It's so funny because some of my friends—you can totally see the resemblance of an animal, right? But then others don't really get an animal. Like Younghoon: he's just kind of bread."

You nearly tripped over a patch of dirt. "Bread?" You stammered incredulously. "Come again?"

"Bread," he nodded. He murmured in thanks to you when you slid open the screen door for him so he could shuck off his shoes and step inside the house. "But Changmin's a squirrel. Or a giraffe. That's what JC!Yn calls him, anyway; it's because of his long neck."

"Huh," you pondered. Interesting friend group they had going on there. You wondered what you would be…

As you passed by your bedroom on the first floor, you could hear your phone sounding off in aggressive vibrations even through the wooden walls and the closed door. You swore under your breath and pushed into your room to turn it off, then paused when you realized why it had gone off in the first place.

Fireflies.

"Everything okay?" Kevin's voice came back around the bend, his head poking into the space and the bird seed bag nowhere to be seen. He must have put it away just now.

You glanced up at him as you silenced the alarm and tucked your phone into your pocket. You hadn't needed it all that much this entire trip, but you would definitely hold onto it tight tonight. "Huh? Oh, yeah. Ready to head out?"

He didn't question your behavior and nodded. "Ready when you are."

Sometimes campfire smoke burned Kevin's eyes, but that was mostly when he was younger and didn't know any better. The embers of the fire were always so warm and inviting, always luring him toward it and inviting him to stare into its core. He could still feel the sting of the ash in his pupils as he looked at it from afar now.

The summer sun had sunken down into the horizon and gave way to a comfortable nightfall. Above your heads hung curtains of leaves from oaks, and above them was the blanket of night sky bedazzled in stars. Nature, as you had said earlier today, was quite photogenic.

He sat perched slightly away from everyone in the group, settling at the picnic table with his back to the table surface so he could still face into the fire. When everyone regrouped, Joshua had brought along an acoustic guitar and played it for everyone now.

"Sunday morning, rain is falling."

Someone lit up in a small hoot of approval. Kevin observed the group before him, the several families that had come together. He was especially pleased that the Hongs and the Xus were still hanging out with the lot of them, the latter being around a little less, but still coming out to join the fun, nonetheless.

He hadn't even realized when the last time his mom tried blatantly pushing him towards Serena. At some point, she stopped and it slipped his mind.

"Clouds are shrouding us in moments, unforgettable. You twist to fit the mold that I am in."

Kevin scratched his jaw as he turned his eyes down to the iPad settled in his lap. After he had finished up dinner, he ran inside to swap out his camera for his device to get some sketching done. There wasn't a particular project he was working on; he just wanted to practice a little.

When he lifted his gaze back up to pick a subject, he found himself looking in your direction. Your dad and Connor brought out the goodies to make s'mores. Long, slim skewers were passed around the circle, and the kids were the first to receive marshmallows to spear.

You and your sister sat beside one another and you helped her grab two of the mallows to impale. The light from the fire flickered across your face in differing levels of shadow, a play on contrast. Your expression seemed softer here—he wasn't really sure what it was. Maybe it was the tenderness at the corner of your eyes as you laughed at Connor's marshmallow falling burnt into the pit; maybe it was the triumph you shared with Alice when you helped her sandwich her marshmallows between a slab of chocolate and twin graham crackers.

He liked to believe his hand started before he consciously knew what he was doing.

"That may be all I need… In darkness, she is all I see."

"Are you sure you don't want me to make you one?" You asked your brother as he grabbed his redemption marshmallow from the bag.

Connor huffed, puffing out his chest. "I got this."

Your eyebrows flew upward. "Okay, big guy. Have at it." You chuckled and grabbed a marshmallow for yourself, sticking it onto your skewer to let it broil over the heat.

Kevin traced the lines of your face with his eyes, his hand transferring that memorization onto his screen. Sometimes human expressions were a little difficult to portray accurately, and there was a thorn pricking the back of his mind, urging him to do you justice. He didn't know if he could.

Your head slowly swayed to the sound of Joshua's pretty melody, the corners of your mouth tilting upward. Kevin shifted his position on the bench and drew the little tick mark at the edge of your mouth for that slight smile.

He always knew you were beautiful—for fuck's sake, he'd practically said it today in the forest. It had been among the crush of other important conversations, but he meant it. He still had the image of you engraved in his brain, the moment when you discovered the family of birds in the feeder house. You'd lit up like a goddamn star.

You stood up from your spot once your marshmallow became the perfect golden tone over the edges. You stepped over to the chair that held all the ingredients and smooshed the marshmallow between chocolate and cracker. Then, you turned and marched over to him.

Surprise alerted in his features, and he subtly tilted the screen of his iPad up against his chest. "Hey," he greeted softly while you approached.

You returned the expression and held out the s'more to him. "Here. It's for you."

The organ in his chest did a somersault. "What?" He laughed, "For me?"

"Yeah, silly. I don't know why you're so far away, but I know you like 'em." You settled on the bench next to him with one arm braced behind you on the table and your legs crossed, one over the other.

"Thank you," he said, using one of his hands to bite into it with childlike giddiness. The mixture of flavors exploded in his mouth—the crunch of the graham cracker, the soft, gooeyness of the chocolate and marshmallow. A perfect, sweet treat, and done exactly right. "Mmmh, this is so good," he mumbled behind his hand to catch any crumbs on his lips.

You chuckled. "Nice, glad it has your stamp of approval." Your eyes wandered down to his iPad, and you could see the white screen lit up against his shirt. "What have you been up to?"

His eyes widened a smidge, and there came a bashfulness to his face. (Cute.) "Oh, uhm," he swallowed down the remainder of the s'more and tilted the screen away from you. Huh, strange. "It's nothing really. Just sketching."

You hummed in understanding, though it was a little out of character for him to hide it from you. "Ah, I see."

The two of you descended into silence, and you leaned your back against the table to get comfortable. Kevin passed you sidelong glances from the corner of his eye, unsure of how you knew he wanted you to stay. (Because he definitely did want you to stay.)

Perhaps this was a sign. Thoughts had been brewing in his head as of late, and he wasn't quite sure what to do with them. They all just… sort of piled up in his hands and he didn't know how to free them up to reach out to you.

He opened his mouth to say something—anything—maybe even about the pact—to retract the pact?—it didn't matter.

But when he turned to look at you this time, your gaze was elsewhere. That soft, tenderness remained, but you had turned your attention to Joshua.

Ah. He shouldn't have jumped so soon. A hopeless kind of ache twisted in his stomach that made him uncomfortable. He briefly glanced down at his screen of what he'd sketched of you so far and decided it might be better to finish it later.

Fireflies. You nearly forgot that you planned to sneak out and see fireflies tonight.

By the time the campfire was cleaned up and everyone was tucked away into their beds, it was probably nearing midnight. You quietly rustled around your room in the dark and used only your phone's flashlight to gather things into a little knapsack—just the essentials, of course. There was no need to get fancy with it.

You wished you had signal so you could text Kevin and warn him ahead of time that you were about to go appear at his window, but you figured it would be fine anyhow. Even if he wasn't awake, the excitement buzzing inside of you could hardly wait.

Shouldering your bag, you headed out the door and crossed the divide between your house and the Moons'.

You located Kevin's window on the second floor, quietly rejoining when you realized it was cracked open. This had to be fate; what other reason would his window be open? (Clearly not for the cool, evening breeze or anything…)

You cupped your hands around your mouth. "Kevin!" You stage-whispered. "Kevin!"

A moment later, a head popped out the open frame. His hair stuck up a little bit and his eyes squinted down into the darkness at you. "Yn?"

"Yes," you said with a grin that he probably thought was idiotically too large. You waved him down. "I'm gonna go see fireflies!"

It took him a second to compute. "What time is it?"

"Like, midnight."

"Okay."

Seven minutes later, Kevin emerged from the back door with a T-shirt and sweatpants on, a yawn splitting his face. He shook his head out as if he was shaking out the remaining remnants of sleep from his system. You met him on the back stairs.

"So what's this about fireflies?" He asked you as the two of you ventured off into the wilderness.

Last year when you were up here at the lake, there was one night when sleep refused to take you. Your solution had been to go on a walk, and as completely dangerous as that sounded (because it was), you'd stumbled upon the meadow you now took Kevin toward. You hadn't the faintest why you never knew about this place after years of coming up to the lake town, but it was where the fireflies took flight.

The meadow was not too long a walk from where you both lived, and by the time you arrived, Kevin was wide awake.

"It's just over this crest," you told him, the jubilation in your voice nearly spilling over.

Kevin smiled at the sound of your excitement and eagerly followed you up the hill.

As soon as you made it over, you lost all your breath in awe. The meadow sprawled at your feet for miles was completely a-glow. Little beads of yellow-green light dotted the field in every corner like light bulbs strung together by invisible string. You had only ever seen this once in person, the rest via the internet and popular culture (movies, TV shows, and the like), and yet, it never compared to the real life experience.

You and Kevin stood there for a moment to soak in the sight. What a wonder of nature this was.

When you finally gained the sense to, you dug around in your bag for wherever you'd stashed your phone. Your tongue stuck out of the corner of your mouth as you fidgeted with the settings on your phone camera. You just wanted one little picture to show one of your professors at school, but it seemed your camera-working skills left much to be desired.

"Here, let me," Kevin murmured and gently took the phone from you. He showed you the screen as he fixed the settings—et voilà! Like magic, the field before you became visible on your camera screen in the crispiest, sexiest quality you had ever seen. "And… there you go."

He clicked the photo for you and handed you back your phone.

Mouth agape, you zoomed in on your completed photo. "Thanks, Kevin!" You gushed as you admired his handiwork.

He clasped a hand against the back of his neck. "No worries. Just a few tricks I learned."

You still warmed at the gesture. With your phone now tucked away, the two of you could sink back into the glory of the field of fireflies.

You heard Kevin's voice, soft, "How do they light up like that?"

"Bioluminescence," you replied in a whisper back. "It's a biochemical reaction that basically lets them convert energy into that light you see." There were plenty of other examples of bioluminescence in nature, as well. One particular instance you'd read about once, was a wave of bioluminescent algae appearing on the shores of a Southern Californian beach during the summer. It was neat stuff.

"Wild," he marveled.

A wave of calm fell over your form. You'd never felt so at peace in your life—just you, the outdoors, and one of the few people who made you actually feel this comfortable. You swallowed at the thought.

You were suddenly hyperaware of how close you were standing to him, the backs of your hands grazing against each other. You could feel his skin, his knuckles against yours—and maybe your brain was making it up, but the touch felt intentional.

For a second, you indulged yourself in what it might be like to close the distance and take his hand into yours. Of course, it wouldn't have to be in the romantic way; friends could hold hands… right? They could hold hands and your heart could skip several beats and he could look at your lips, and you would still be friends. Right?

You cleared your throat, and the sound seemed to thunder in the silence. "We should—we should probably head back," you said, sparing a glance at him.

He caught your eyes and held them. His lips turned upward, and the shine in his eyes was fond. "Okay."

With renewed energy, you made the trek back into the neighborhood. Your bucket list items for the summer had nearly all been checked off—not like you had a physical list written out. These were simply traditions you hoped to fulfill every summer while you were here in your happy place.

The crickets chirped a lovely serenade as you and Kevin strolled back onto the street where your houses stood. At the point where you both needed to split off, you nudged him with your elbow. "Thanks for coming out with me tonight."

"Thank you for inviting me," he countered with an amused hum.

"Good night, Kev."

You both lingered for a second. "Good night, Yn," he said back, pausing for a moment. Then he leaned over toward you and pressed his lips to the crown of your head. Your eyes fluttered shut. "Hope the lovebugs bite."

EPISODE ELEVEN: ROCKING THE BOAT

IF there was one thing that Kevin Moon was good at (besides the myriad of things he was actually good at), it was waking up his cousin to exercise with him in the morning.

"I think I deserve a nice, fat stack of pancakes after this," Yuna grumbled after nearly tripping over a raised tree root and kissing the forest floor. She grappled onto her cousin's shoulder to steady herself, the cousin in question giving a light chuckle at her antics. "When your mom said we should exercise together, I thought she meant the next time I was in Vancouver, not right now."

"Well, it's only because Yn's mom planned to go out with my mom this morning," Kevin mused. "Usually I have a designated walking partner."

"Woe is me. Alas, I have become your Plan B," Yuna sighed melodramatically with a hand draped over her forehead.

This morning, at a lovely 9:46am, the lake and its surrounding forest was just as alive and awake as Kevin was. The sun had taken up its perch in the clear, blue sky and the birds had long since begun their morning songs. They were awfully loud at this part of the lake, the exact three-quarter mark around the perimeter. Kevin thanked his parents for choosing houses away from this area—he would have never slept ever if they bunkered up here. (Not that he slept anyway, but that was beside the point.)

The walk began a little later than he usually did with your mom, but he granted Yuna a bit of leeway since she hadn't exactly been given a head's up. (He argued the opposite, but he let this once slide.)

"You're so dramatic," he chided playfully. "Watch out for that rock."

Yuna's mouth morphed into a deep frown, eyes wide open, as she narrowly missed being nature's fool another time. "Oh, speaking of Yn… Yn's mom? Whatever, I just mean Yn."

Kevin perked up at the topic change. His brain was fresh from last night's midnight endeavor with you and the fireflies. His lips still tingled from when he ventured to kiss you on the head… he wasn't sure where that courage had come from, but the memory of it kick-started his heart into a gallop. "What about Yn?"

She shrugged. "I dunno. You tell me." A smile crawled onto her face, and Kevin could smell her slyness a mile away. "The two of you have been hanging out a ton recently."

"We usually stick together," he sniffed, fidgeting absentmindedly with the beads on the bracelet you'd made him.

"Aish," she pressed her features into an unimpressed look that reminded Kevin of a typical Chanhee deadpan. "You're so unhelpful. You know what I'm talking about!" She smacked the side of his arm, and Kevin erupted into a fit of laughter.

His smile grew shy. "I don't really know what to say! I'm sorry—that's the truth." Because how could he even begin when it came to you? Where did it end, where did it begin?

"I see the way you look at her, Kev."

Kevin shoved his hands into his shorts. Suddenly the bird nest he spotted in a nearby tree became all too interesting. The bird nest reminded him of the birds who had made a home out of one of your feeders, and that reminded him of the adorable elation on your face when you discovered it and that reminded him of—he came to a stop. Oh, god, he was so far gone. "How do I look at her?"

Yuna peered at him curiously, then stopped to face him. "You look at her like I look at Jin. At least, that's how I think I look at him." She offered him a supportive smile. "But right now, you look like you're going through your midlife crisis."

"I might as well be."

She barked out a laugh. "Save that for when you buy a house, my friend."

He rubbed his temples with a wince. "Houses, domesticity, money, partners. Why is adulting so hard?"

"Hey, you'll get through it," she told him and nudged his shoulder. "What's going on, dude? What's on your mind?"

Kevin swallowed. He still hadn't the faintest idea where to begin, but everything had to start somewhere. Yuna had always been kind to him (a menace at times, but that feeling was mutual), and he trusted her with his vulnerabilities. He toed the ground. "Okay, last night, I kissed her—"

"YOU WHAT?"

He sputtered, red rushing to his face, as he grabbed her shoulders. Her eyes were practically falling out of her head. "Nonononono! Let me finish, you—I kissed her on the forehead, okay?"

Her gaping mouth closed only slightly. "Oh…" She thought about it some more. "Oh."

Kevin nodded gravely. "Yup."

Yuna straightened with a furrowed brow. "Well, that's not that big of a deal, is it?"

"What do you mean that's not a big deal?" His hands shot to the top of his baseball cap. "How is that not a big deal!"

"That's because the two of you refuse to acknowledge or entertain the obvious!"

Kevin hissed when she reached over to give his forehead a very hard flick. He rubbed the spot that began to smart; getting flicked in the forehead twice in one lake trip was twice too many. "The obvious?"

"That you guys can have the mushy gushy feelies without it being a product of the placebo effect from your moms' collective matchmaking efforts."

He made a face. "That was a lot of words…"

She deadpanned. "Kevin, listen to me: just because the two of you made a stupid pact when you were ten—"

"Eleven."

"Whatever. Eleven—doesn't mean that you can't leave room to, you know, amend that. You have to give yourself the opportunity to explore it, especially when I can clearly see that your feelings are changing about this girl." Yuna grasped her cousin by his shoulders this time in an attempt to telepathically insert these words into his brain. Or at least, just make him listen.

The words seeped into his head. The two of you had already made amendments earlier this trip, but you had never commented on the "only friends part." He even entertained the idea of bringing it up to you last night at the bonfire.

He didn't realize Yuna already began tugging him along the path to circle around the remainder of the lake to get back to the house. Everything was so muddled… but a part of him recognized that Yuna was right. He just wished he could get an idea of where your thoughts laid.

There were moments when you thought life could be like a movie, but then why was doing this pedal boat thing so much less glamorous than it seemed? Then again, maybe you shouldn't have thought doing this at high noon was the greatest idea.

You should have been like your Uncle Seokjin, who sat to your left, swallowed up in a blue lifejacket, a pair of big sunglasses, and a crocheted bonnet with a duck face to keep his face out of the sun. Yeah, maybe glasses would have been a good idea.

Sweat dribbled down the side of your face and down the slope of your nose, and you wiped it off with the back of your hand. "It's so hot, Uncle. We couldn't have waited until later today when it cooled down?"

He leaned back, his cheeks and skin reddened and damp from the heat and the fire in his calves from pedaling. "Okay, okay. Let's stop here."

"Right in the middle of the lake?" You asked incredulously, but immediately brought your feet off the pedals to give your legs a deserved break.

"What better place to do so?"

The two of you lounged in your seat beneath the molten afternoon sun, limbs screaming, water draining from your bodies through your pores. This would have been nice if you brought a sun umbrella… or maybe some water… man, did you make so many poor choices today.

"So what's going on with you and Kevin?"

The question snapped you out of your heat-fazed daze. You nearly thought you hallucinated him saying that. You stammered, "What about me and Kevin?"

You could see his overexaggerated facial expression even from behind his sunglasses. "Yah, don't give me that. You know what I'm talking about—I saw you two last night."

You lurched out of your seat and caused the violent rocking of the boat. You and your copilot let out twin swears as the boat evened out on the waves, and luckily, did not capsize. "Sorry—the fuck? You did?"

"Actually, I didn't," he snickered. "But now I know something did happen. So what's the tea, girl? Hit me with it. It's hot outside but I always take my beverages scorching." He shifted in his seat, carefully, in order to give you his full attention.

You couldn't believe he dragged you out to the middle of the lake just for this conversation. Total Uncle Seokjin move. You walked (or pedaled) right into his checkmate.

Moments of last night flooded into your brain—the campfire, the fireflies, the kiss, the… the him. Kevin. You gulped. Where did you even think to begin? "I took him to see fireflies last night."

Jin scrunched his eyebrows together. "Fireflies? Since when did we have fireflies? You didn't take me to see the fir—oh, you know, what? It was your little romantic moment; I got it."

"It wasn't a romantic moment!" You sputtered helplessly, uselessly. "It was—it was a moment of serenity and scientific marvel."

"You are such a nerd. What did he do, huh? Did you guys hold hands or something?"

Almost. "No," you said. "He… he did kiss my forehead once we got back though."

"Aha!" You both careened as the boat trembled violently from Seokjin's sudden Einstein epiphany. "I knew that something happened," he said once the boat slowed to a stop again. "I just had a feeling in my gut."

"Are you sure it wasn't the yogurt you had this morning?"

"How dare you," he huffed. "I brought my lactose pills. And hey! Stop changing the subject."

You laughed aloud, but inwardly, your gut was churning. Maybe you could blame the heat, but you knew the real reason why you were suddenly feeling as unstable as the pedal boat you sat upon. The idea that the entirety of your friendship could be so easily uprooted… well, perhaps not easily. Picking apart your friendship would be like flushing weeds out of a garden—you would have to get at the roots, and right now, the roots were so deep that you would fall into the ground before finding the bottom.

Not that you wanted to uproot your friendship, or relationship, with Kevin. Of course not.

What did that forehead kiss even mean? What did all of the moments you shared between him this summer, as a whole, even mean? Why, all of a sudden, did you want the way he looked at you to mean something different besides platonic affection? Why did you want more when you had never really thought about more before?

You voiced all of this aloud to your uncle, who sat staring out onto the calm surface of the lake. When you were finished with your ramble, he said, "You need to get your shit together, girl."

You coughed. "Thanks, that was so helpful."

"I'm told that a lot," he beamed. "But really, those are all very good questions, Yn. And they're super important, too."

You frowned, lifting the rim of your baseball cap to wipe away the perspiration collecting at your hairline like a cult. "Do you think that these mixed feelings are a result of all the matchmaking going on? Like, somehow, we've let it affect how we view each other?"

"Honestly?" He sighed, his shoulders lifting and dropping in a half-hearted shrug. "Could be. But, Yn honey, is it really such a bad thing? And let's think about it this way—how do you feel about Joshua?"

You didn't need to think too hard about it. "He's a catch, but not my type of butterfly."

"Exactly, and oh my go—"

"Don't," you chuckled menacingly, "call me a nerd."

He gestured vaguely with his hand. "I wasn't; I was gonna call you a dork."

You snorted. With another swipe at your dripping neck, you said, "But Kevin and Serena—"

"'Kevin and Serena' don't exist," he told you with a smack of his lips. Jin peered at you from over the rim of his glasses, which in kind, made the duck's beady eyes stare straight into your soul, too. "That girl bats for the other team, and Kevin has shown zero interest in her other than helping her not fall off a jet ski."

Huh. You leaned your elbow onto the knee of one leg, propped up to your chest. "Well when you put it that way…"

"When I put it that way," he finished for you, "it makes it a little clearer, hm?" You were quiet for a moment, and Jin gave your shoulder a pat. "Some things are just meant to be."

The words, so familiar to you, rang true as a bell. Some things are just meant to be. You couldn't help the smile that started to work its way onto your face, and it was all thanks to Seokjin helping you sweep away some of the webs confusing your brain. You weren't completely confident, but you could feel yourself being nudged in a certain direction, and this time, you weren't pushing back.

The tide could take you where it may.

Your uncle by association added quietly, "Haven't you thought just once that, after all this sneaking around, there's been another reason for it other than a pact?"

EPISODE TWELVE: FISH IN THE SEA, ANTS IN THE GROUND

BY the time you and Jin returned to solid ground, you discovered that Kevin was away with his dad helping the Xus pack and clean up. Today they would be departing the small lake town, as they hadn't planned on spending as much time up here as the rest of you did. You and most of the others already said your goodbyes at the campfire, so you had little else to do but twiddle your thumbs until you could confront Kevin with your thoughts.

A shower always produced productive results, especially after melting Wicked Witch of the West style in the middle of the lake.

There was time, you realized, to bring things together. Of course, there was a part of you that shied away from wanting to even address this epiphany. What if bringing this up opened up a whole new can of worms? In other words, what if talking about the elephant in the room only led to regret? You didn't want to lose Kevin, and because your families were always so close, you didn't want to lose this. This connection, this tradition, this place.

Too many memories made their home here at the lake. It was your happy place… his happy place. It was everything.

Everything could change, and wasn't that terrifying? But it could also be great, and who best to share the scariest, greatest moments of life with other than your Kevin Moon?

As rubber tire wheels ate gravel, Kevin nodded to his dad and set off back across the lawn toward your cabin. The afternoon had him busy with helping the Xus head home, which he didn't mind doing, of course; the lot of them had fun with his party, and his party with the lot of them. He and Serena left on friendly terms, undeterred by his mother's half-hearted attempt to get them sort of talking. Serena said she understood.

Kevin needed to talk to you though. After the morning was spent with Yuna getting him to see the big ass elephant in the room—trunk in his face and trumpet in his ear—there was no other course of action left but to tell you the truth.

The truth. God, the truth. The truth was that he didn't want the old pact in place anymore. That was it, plain and simple. It was crazy to think about how long the two of you had let it restrain your relationship—wait, did you want it to though?

"Hey Kevin!"

Kevin slowed to a stop, attention perking up at his name when he saw Joshua making his way over to him. He worried his bottom lip. You didn't… like Josh, did you? He just had to be sure because, well, that would throw a rock into things. "Oh, hey, man."

Joshua offered him a bright smile. "Hey. Did Serena and her parents just take off?"

Kevin cupped the back of his head. "Uh, yeah! Just now, actually."

"Cool, cool." Joshua nodded his head. "I wanted to talk to you about something."

His heart threw itself over the side of a cliff. Oh no. He let out a laugh, hoping to push the nerves out of his voice, but he was sure it wasn't too convincing anyhow. "Really? What—what about?"

"It's about Yn—" Oh, double no. "—I kind of," he winced, "noticed that her mom was trying to… nudge us together?"

"Oh god, let me be the first to apologize—"

Joshua broke the tension with a chuckle. "Hey, it's no worries! I just didn't know if you were aware or not because you and she kind of seemed like a couple to me, but I didn't know if her mom knew."

Kevin blinked, heart quickening for a different reason. "What?" He stammered. "Sorry, can we rewind?"

"Hm? That you and Yn are a thing? Are—are you not?" He gasped, eyes going wide. "Shit, that was stupid of me to just assume. Sorry if that was totally awkward!"

Oh, but quite the opposite. Kevin could feel the blood rush to his cheeks, clear as day. There was a warm feeling in his chest knowing that more people thought that you and him looked like a couple. It was ridiculous how the thought got him giddy now. Kevin shook his head though. "No, no, you're good, dude. But we aren't a couple." Yet. Hopefully.

Joshua cocked his head to the side curiously. "Oh? I guess… it's still a little strange of me to assume, so I apologize. You're…?"

"Interested?" A nod. "Yeah." (Wow, that was a verbal admittance. One step closer to the real thing.)

Kevin cleared his throat and grabbed his shoulder with his opposite hand. "You're not—you're not interested in her, are you? I mean," he rushed to add, "it's totally fine. I understand—"

Joshua shook his head. "Oh shit, no, I'm not interested. Not that Yn's a bad person or anything, but I'm taken."

Pause.

…that made sense.

Joshua laughed, ducking his head to hide the smile that blossomed on his face. "Yeah, I'm already spoken for. My parents don't really know yet, but… yeah. I didn't wanna get in the way of whatever you and Yn have, and hopefully I'm not saying this too late."

On the contrary, a weight lifted from Kevin's chest and he sucked in a lungful of summer breeze. "Nah, man. Thanks for saying it in the first place; I appreciate it."

"Yeah," Joshua said pleasantly. He nodded at him, lips pursed with one eye squinted. "She digs you, too, you know? I've seen it all throughout this trip."

Hope filled his heart like the air ballooning his lungs. He didn't know what to do with all of these. They just kept coming up onto the stack of things in his hands that he wanted to take into consideration and tell you to your face, once and for all. Your face just kept flickering in his mind's eye, and the nerves were slowly melting into excitement. He wanted to share this with you, as the two of you had done for years.

"I hope so."

Joshua clasped a hand on Kevin's shoulder. "I would say 'go get 'em, tiger,' but I have a friend at school who is scarily obsessed with tigers, so I'll just say—" A squeeze of his shoulder, "you got this."

Kevin didn't know what to do with that extra factoid, but he gave Joshua a grateful grin. "Thanks, man."

The pair split off from there, one heading back toward his own cabin, and the other, marching toward the future. Whatever laid ahead, he could take on.

His step gained a skip, and soon, he was jogging across the green until he appeared at your back porch. He hadn't really prepared anything—no romantic gestures, no flowers or candles, no chocolates. All he had were the words on his tongue and his newly realized love for you. Love, a strange phenomenon. He had his love for you stashed away in his breast pocket and it blossomed every summertime.

He let himself into the house and went poking around for you. "Yn? Yn, you back yet?"

No answer.

He ducked his head into the kitchen, the living room, before he came upon your bedroom door left slightly ajar. Through the sliver, he saw the bottoms of your feet on the bed, and he gently knocked on the door before pushing through.

"Yn…? Ah," His voice quieted to a whisper.

You were curled up over the bedsheets, asleep. Kevin slowly tiptoed his way over to you where your body was angled toward your phone screen, lying discarded on the pillow and actively running an episode of Our Planet.

A smile, fond and tender, pressed itself into his mouth. He reached over to carefully turn the downloaded episode off to descend the room in complete silence.

His head swiveled toward the foot of the bed where your patchwork quilt hung off the railing. He carefully draped it over your sleeping form, then made his exit.

You deserved the rest. And though he couldn't confess to you now, this gave him the time to ensure he got this exactly right.

EPISODE THIRTEEN: THE DAMSELS IN DEVOTION DEAL™

TIME passed by differently here.

One moment, you were biding your time and indulging in an episode of Our Planet; the next, the bedroom was dark and the house was quiet. You roused from sleep confused and delirious. You stretched your limbs up over your head, taking note of the quilt draped over your body.

Huh, you wondered how that got there.

Your eyes fluttered and squinted when you stood up and saw a flicker of amber light from outside your window. The view looked over only part of the backside to the house, so all you could see were the shadows that the campfire created. They danced by way of the breeze, their puppetmaster.

The time on your phone read a (slightly alarming) ten o'clock. You hadn't realized you slept that long. Maybe you were more tired than you originally thought.

Wait, then why was the campfire still blazing?—

"Yn! Psst!"

You pressed your face against the open slit in the window to track the sound of your name. Déjà vu swept over you as you discovered Kevin making his way over toward you from the outside. "Kevin? Is everyone still up?"

He shook his head. "No, no. I've just been waiting," he admitted sheepishly. "Come on out. Have you eaten yet?"

"Oh, no. I just woke up."

"Ah… right." He clasped the back of his neck. "Well, come out anyway. We can sit together."

Together. You liked the sound of that.

Without wasting more time, you promised him two minutes and scurried out of your room to round to the back door. The campfire crackled on your side of the lawn, rather than the middle of the properties this time, and Kevin tended to it on one of the two foldable chairs present.

You took a seat in the open seat. "S'mores?" You chuckled, noting the basket of ingredients at his feet.

He ducked his head. "Yeah," he loosened a laugh, "I thought I'd make you a s'more this time."

It was just a s'more, and yet, here was the organ in your chest palpitating in your chest. You didn't reject the s'more, of course, and watched him skewer a marshmallow and hold it over the blazing embers. As he did so, you caught the way his other hand fidgeted with your bracelet on his wrist, how his tongue darted out to wet his bottom lip. Was he as nervous as you were?

The thing, Yn.

"There's something I—" You both stopped short at your simultaneous words. They were the same, too, and had the pair of you fumbling.

"You first," you said, gesturing to him.

He hummed and tried for a smile. "Do you remember that night in sixth grade when we made the pact?"

You nodded.

"It was kind of like this actually," he mused. The marshmallow had browned into a beautiful gold, and you reached into the basket to help him assemble the chocolate and graham cracker pieces. Your fingers grazed his as he squished the outer crackers together to hand it to you. "A late night, s'mores, the campfire."

You took a chunk out of the s'more and swallowed before adding, "Seems like so long ago."

"Right?" He slipped the metal skewers back into the basket and leaned his arms onto his knees, body angled toward you. "The pact, I…" He considered his words as they melted on his tongue like the chocolate and marshmallow on yours. "I wanted to ask if you would think about another amendment."

You met his eyes now. The burning fire reflected in his dark irises, warm and bright. "An—an amendment," you parroted. Was this what you thought it was? You finished off your s'more, hoping not to choke when he told you whatever he wanted to tell you. You suddenly wondered if the s'more was just to soften the blow.

Kevin nodded. "Yeah, another amendment. We didn't really discuss the biggest part of the original pact when we made the rescue protocol."

"The 'just friends' clause," you finished, breathlessly.

"Yn, I don't wanna be just friends anymore."

It didn't hit you at first. You swore the ash from the fire was making you hear things, but it hit you, milliseconds later. "Oh."

He pursed his lips for a moment. "It's taken me a stupidly long time to come to this conclusion, and I was thinking about what we were talking about the other night—about if we were ready for relationships. And I said that maybe the person I wanted to spend the rest of my life with was someone I already met.

"Yn, I think I'm in love with you," he said. "Not just in a way that friends love each other, but something… something more. And I wanted to let you know because—if I'm being completely honest—I want to share everything with you."

You could feel the way your lips curled upward and your heart soared. "I wanna share everything with you, too. And I don't know how long I've sat on this, but what I do know is that I feel so much for you." Every admittance that was released into the night air like sparks flying was another card laid out between you two, face up. "This place, the lake, has been my place, Kevin. But I want you to be my person."

He smiled at you, sweet and boyish, the type of smile that made you feel on the edge of seventeen. He helped you out of dark places with that smile; he was always showing you the light. "Your person," he murmured, letting that sink into his tongue and be familiarized with it. "I would love to be your person, Yn."

Your hand found his across the gap between your chairs. His thumb caressed over the side of yours, and he tucked his other hand over top until you were enveloped in his clasp—safe and sound.

When the fire was reduced to nothing more than ash and memory, you and Kevin raced each other down to the water's edge. The lake was stilled beneath the moonlight, a pool of silvery mercury. You reached for his hand again and intertwined your fingers firmly, a comforting weight and hold.

It felt right.

"So since we made an amendment to the protocol again," you started as he swung your laced hands between your bodies, "we need to seal the deal."

A grin bloomed on his face, and he bit his lip. "Hear me out," he drawled. "Maybe we should update the seal, too."

You narrowed your eyes in jest. "You just don't want me to flick your forehead."

"Sue me, you flick hard," he laughed.

"But shoot."

He licked his lips and turned to face you. "Can I show you?"

Your heart gave one big lurch as he leaned over to you. You closed the rest of the distance and sighed something happy at the feel of his lips against yours. It was gentle and brief, his mouth parting from yours to give you enough room to back away.

You could feel your twin smiles. "I kind of like it."

"Yeah?" He hummed. "Well, that can be our practice round."

You shook your head and threw your arms around his neck to pull him back over to you. His arms curled around your middle, hands pressed to your sides and holding you close.

When you broke apart this time, his warm chuckle ran a delicious bolt of electricity down your spine. "I know things are gonna be different now… But we got this."

It was the way he looked at you—the one that assured you he was the same Kevin he was three years ago and beyond; the kid who broke the swing set when you challenged him to a bet; the kid who sketched butterflies in meadows, and now sketched you in the firelight; the kid who would never judge you or ridicule you for your feelings, but validate them, always. You didn't know how you were so blind to it before.

It wasn't so scary anymore, not when you knew he would be there with you.

"Yeah," you said softly, running your thumb down the back of his neck, "I'm not really worried."

He let out a breathy laugh, and it coaxed one out of you, too. Kevin pressed his forehead to yours, pressed a kiss to the tip of your nose, pressed his heart to yours.

Some things really were just meant to be.

a/n: now the question is how are they gonna tell their moms... 🤡 if you enjoyed, pls remember to reblog, or comment, or send in an ask!! thanks for reading :] see you in at your convenience!

permanent taglist: @flwoie @vatterie @seomisaho @hqrana @ja4hyvn @tinkerbell460 @kaaimins @hyunjaespresent-deobi @otterly-fey @zzoguri @floatingpluto @winterchimez @ethereal-engene @gyulfriend @polarisjisung @jaehunnyy @shakalakaboomboo @loveliestfelix @bless-311 @zhaixiaowen @leaz-kpop-life @amourdsr @pxppxrminty @kqyutie @sseastar-main @kxthleen14 @fluorescentloves @mosviqu @justalildumpling @jaerisdiction @super-btstrash-posts @jundundun @http-gyu @mvvnsseul @outrologist @vernonburger @maessseongs @ericlvr @kflixnet

#TUMBKR ISTG IF UR GONNA KEEP BEING A BTCH AHHHHHH #ive been trying to reblog this and everytime tumbkr DIES.#anyways #TYSM FOR INDULGING IN A LITTLE LIU WAY PAST UR BEDTIME HAHA #im glad u thought so :')) i always find f2l a little hard to write bc there has to be a transition from friends to lovers #and i tend to have way too much fun with the friendship side LOL #skfneknfjr you'll hve to wait a few more installments for sangyeons wink wonk ;)#uncle jin has to be one of my fav comedians in all the installments thus far skfnkdmf #anyways tysm for reading 😚💖#seungcheollies-cake #feedback

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itsbeeble · 1 year ago

Text

TRY HARD

SUMMARY: Need to get rid of some junk? Well these college hunks will haul YOUR junk! Give us a call at xxx-xxx-JUNK and we’ll haul YOUR junk for FREE! (limited time offer)

GENRE: smut, crack, fluff, minimal angst

PAIRING: Lee Juyeon x afab!reader (ft. sangyeon, sunwoo, and chanhee)

WC: 8.7k (oops)

SERIES MASTERLIST

PERM TAGLIST: @winterchimez @juyeonszn

18+ MDNI AGELESS BLOGS WILL BE BLOCKED

WARNINGS: name calling (reader calls Juyeon stripper boy, baby, and pretty boy. Juyeon calls reader pretty girl), swearing, mentions of college parties, Y/N roasts Juyeon like a lot, Juyeon stops a door with his foot, one bed trope (for like two seconds), sunwoo slander (learning from Fawn <3) Juyeon is not god's strongest soldier, masturbation (m and kinda f), p in v sex, implied unprotected sex, restraints are used, dom!reader kinda, bratty!Juyo kinda, really poor attempts at humor, i think there's more but that covers the big stuff

A/N: This was NOT supposed to be almost 9k. It was supposed to be 3k at MOST but i will not lie i will prolly end up doing this again for most of the fics I'm putting out for this collab oops. Anywayyyyy let's kick off the collab with arguably my funniest fic.

The first time you meet Lee Juyeon, you’re dressed in sleep shorts and the biggest sweatshirt in your closet. He’s standing at your door, and for a moment you can’t help but be confused by the fact that yes, there is a hot man in a white tank top and cargo pants leaning against your doorframe. And yes, he is, in fact, there for you and not the girls living down the hall from you.

And, to be fair, it wasn’t your fault that you thought he was a stripper. Really, it wasn’t. It’s not every day that you see a guy with a body to die for and the face of an angel.

“Are you some sort of stripper?” For a moment, the two of you are quiet. There’s a look of pure astonishment on his face that eventually turns into him fighting back a grin.

“Do you want me to be?” His tongue brushes over his lower lip while he scans you up and down and you scoff.

“No. The girls you’re probably looking for are down the hall, the last door on the right.” You begin to shut the door. “Have fun.”

“Wait!” His foot catches in the door before you can slam it shut and you hear him swear loudly. “Shit, that did not feel good.”

“Are you fucking stupid?” You swing the door open again, scowling at him. “Why would you try to catch this heavy ass door with your foot?”

“I thought it would look cool!” He winces, one hand gripping your door frame and the other cradling his aching foot. “Like in the movies!”

“I don’t know if you know this…” you trail off, squinting at him and realizing you have no idea who this man is. “Stripper boy,—”

“Juyeon,” you can practically hear his teeth grinding as he speaks. You hum.

“Stripper boy,” you bob your head. “That’s what I’m gonna call you.”

“Please don’t—”

“Anyway,” you interrupt again. “I don’t know if you know this, but romance movies are fictional. Of course, it’s not gonna look like the prop door and they’re gonna catch it like it’s nothing. This, however,” you hit your fist against your door, “is solid metal. Not gonna feel good when you catch this shit, dumbass.”

“Whatever,” Juyeon rolls his eyes and straightens his body out. “I was just making my rounds across campus, wanted to see if you’d be interested in supporting your local fraternity.”

You raise an eyebrow, reaching your hand out to take the flier from his hand.

College Hunks Hauling Junk!

Need to get rid of some junk? Well, these college hunks will haul YOUR junk! Give us a call at xxx-xxx-JUNK and we’ll haul YOUR junk for FREE! (limited-time offer)

Scan HERE to book your appointment!

“College hunks hauling junk,” you can’t help but laugh at the name and take the flier from Juyeon’s hands. He grins at you. “People are actually paying you guys to haul their shit away?”

He shrugs. “It’s free, technically. You’re allowed to donate, but we’re really just doing it for free. You know, help out fellow students and spread the word.”

“You sure it wouldn’t be easier to just do some stripping if you can’t pay the rent?” You ask. “Also, what do you mean spread the word?”

“I’m glad you asked.” Juyeon points a finger at the bottom of the flier, completely disregarding the first part of your sentence. Fuck, his hands are big.

This ad also doubles as your invitation to Tau Beta Zeta’s parties for the rest of the semester. Cash this in at any time and get into ANY parties for free! (Code word will be given at the time of flier being cashed in) (Girls get in for free, Guys $5 @ the door)

“We’re having a little competition with the sorority down the road from us,” Juyeon explains. “Whoever has more people by the end of the semester gets to host the end-of-the-year party and the other frat or sorority has to buy food and drinks.”

You stare at the paper for a second, pondering your options. Then you smile, look up at the man that you are still pretty damn sure is a stripper, and hand back the flier.

“I’m good, thanks.”

The door shuts, and you turn to go back to bed. The sound of paper sliding across the ground stops you, and you can see in the faint light that streams under your door that Juyeon slipped the flier into your room.

Fucking try hard.

The second time you see Lee Juyeon, he’s handing out fliers again. Only he isn’t walking around random apartment buildings with a weird seductive look that you honestly don’t doubt was working. This time, he’s in a hoodie and jeans and walking around the center of campus with people that you can only assume are his frat brothers.

At first, you almost don’t recognize him, but then his eyes meet yours, and you can see the corners wrinkle when he smiles. Again, you’re confused. Is he smiling at you?

Your head whips around, trying to find someone around you that he might be looking at, and when you turn around again, Juyeon is approaching you.

“Have you thought about it, pretty girl?” He asked and you stared at him dumbly for a moment. Did he just call you pretty girl?

“Thought about what?” He holds up that flier again, placing it in your hands similarly to the other night. “Oh.”

“Did you think I was kidding?” He leans down slightly, keeping eye contact. Your free hand places itself on his chest— which you hadn’t realized before was very solid— and pushes him back. He barely moves. In fact, you are the one who gets pushed back.

“Listen, stripper boy—”

“Juyeon—”

“Stripper boy,” you mimic the exasperated tone he uses with you. “If I wanted an invitation to a stereotypical frat party with a bunch of drunk 20-somethings and cheap beer and bad pizza and try-hard men like yourself, I would’ve gone by now.” You fold up the flier, smoothing out the edges before holding it out to him. He doesn’t take it, and you can see the gears turning in his brain.

“So what you’re saying,” he starts to smile and steps toward you again.”

“Stripper boy,” you warn.

“…is that there’s a chance?”

“Absolutely not, there is not a chance in hell that I’m gonna call some college hunks to haul junk out of my college apartment that I can barely afford to live in let alone pay you to take things out of.” Juyeon shrugs.

“Like I said, payment is optional and can come in…” he wiggles his eyebrows at you, “many different forms, pretty girl.”

“That’s gross, stripper boy.” You scrunch up your nose and he laughs. “Also, why are you calling me that?”

“Calling you what?” his smile only grows and you huff.

“Pretty girl.”

“Because you are a pretty girl.”

“No, I’m—” You catch yourself in the sentence when he leans forward onto the tips of his toes, ready to stop you. “You know what, fuck you. I know that was a dirty little trick and I’m not gonna fall for it just so you can swoop in and say something like oh nooo, don’t say that about yourself! You’re so pretty! And then you’ll tuck my hair behind my ear and you’ll try to kiss me and then—” You stop yourself again. Juyeon’s smile is almost scary at this point, stretching all the way across his face as if this had been his plan all along and you walked right into it.

“And then…?” He teases.

“…fuck you and your frat, stripper boy. God, you guys are such try-hards.”

You hold onto the flier this time, whether too embarrassed to give it back or genuine curiosity, you aren’t sure. You do know that you can’t stop the pounding in your chest, or the heat rising in your cheeks.

“Who was that?” Sunwoo slings an arm over Juyeon’s shoulder, both men watching you walk away with the flier held tightly in your hand. Juyeon smiles.

“Just someone I know.”

“Didn’t look like she was too happy to see you.” Sunwoo snickers and drops his arm down to stand straight. Juyeon turns to the younger man, the smile he had when standing with you now gone and replaced with a permanent scowl.

“Who even asked you, Sunwoo?”

The younger raises his hands in defense. “I’m just saying! It looked like she hated you. Oooh, maybe you’re finally gonna get that enemies-to-lovers arc that Eric is always— WHOA, HEY—” Sunwoo nearly trips over himself trying to get away from Juyeon as the older frat brother swings his arm out in his direction. “Don’t hurt this pretty face! How else is the soccer team gonna get their funds?” A hand in the shape of a finger gun finds its way under Sunwoo’s chin, and the star soccer player smirks.

“I think they’ll manage,” Juyeon swings his arm out again, wincing when Sunwoo lets out an ear-piercing squeal.

It’s like you’re seeing him everywhere. Every class you go to, it’s like he’s always there handing out fliers or chatting with his friends. And, unfortunately, every time you see him, he sees you too. He animatedly waves at you, calling your name or running over to you. Every time, you somehow end up with another flier to add to your collection.

For weeks you’ve been seeing him in places that you swear you’d never seen him in before. You swear that he’s not in your environmental course. You swear that he’s not in your sociology course. He just has to be following you.

That, or you just have shitty luck with Lee Juyeon.

It must be bad luck, you think as you watch the fire department evacuate your flooded building. It must be, you tell yourself as you stand there in the pouring rain in pajama shorts and a sweater, sans an umbrella. There’s nothing else it could be.

Your eyes narrow at the sight of Juyeon standing near a group of girls with those damned fliers in one hand and some umbrellas around the wrist of the other. Your hands tighten around your arms, body shaking from the cold of the rain. Your lips twist into a deep frown when he approaches you, his eyebrows knit together and his lips pursed at the sight of you. His mouth opens to say something, and you hold your hand up to stop him.

“Save it, stripper boy. I don’t want your fucking spiel right now.” His shoulders slump a little.

“I was just going to ask if you wanted an umbrella.” He holds one out, the last one on his arm. “You have to be freezing right now, and you’re absolutely soaked.” Your hand wraps around the umbrella, your eyes still narrowed with suspicion.

“Thanks…” he smiles and backs up to give you space to open it. You would never admit to his face that he was right. That you were freezing your ass off in this godforsaken weather.

“Are you okay?” You look up at him, sniff, and shrug.

“I mean, my home is currently flooding which leaves me homeless for at least a few days. It’s piss-pouring rain out here, I’m in my pajamas with all my clothing inside the flooded building, and now here you are probably trying to get me to buy from your stupid fundraiser thing.” You take a deep breath, finally looking him in the eye. “So no, I don’t think I’m okay, Juyeon. Thanks for asking.” He’s quiet for a moment, and then a small smile breaks onto his face.

“I think that’s the first time you’ve called me Juyeon.” You bite your tongue and turn to walk away from him. “Wait, fuck, Y/N it was a joke. I’m sorry.” He grabs your arm, pulling you back to him. You can see a little bit of panic in his gaze.

“Yeah, well it was a shitty joke.” You scoff.

“I know, poor taste, I was just trying to lighten the mood.” He pulls his hand from your arm, and you almost feel bad. It’s quiet between you two, and you think that this is the first time it’s ever been completely silent. Well, save for the chatter of other tenants and incoming sirens and the yells of officers.

“This fucking sucks,” you grumble, and Juyeon huffs out a laugh.

“Do you have anywhere that you go?”

You shake your head. “Nah, none of my friends have space for another person in their apartment or dorm.”

“You could stay with me.” He says it so fast, so suddenly, that you thought you misheard him at first.

“Excuse me?” Juyeon clears his throat, his cheeks and ears flushing and you can’t tell if it’s from the cold or embarrassment.

“I— I mean you— I’m just—” he stumbles over his words and you smile.

“Is the Lee Juyeon embarrassed right now? In front of little ol’ me, nonetheless?”

“I’m not embarrassed,” he snaps, pressing the back of one of his hands to his neck in a poor attempt to cool himself down. “I’m just— I—”

“Juyeon,” your hand comes up to his arm and he flinches. You let your arm drop down to your side. “Are you trying to ask me to stay with you while the building is being repaired?”

You’re smiling at him, and it’s like that tiny action brings back all of his previous confidence. He’s smirking again, leaning down under the tiny umbrella he gave you. It’s your turn to blush now, but your eyes don’t leave his.

“Because,” your voice nearly betrays you. “That would be a little…odd…wouldn’t it? A girl living with, what, ten men? People would talk.” He hums.

“But they would also find it odd if I just…left you to live in your car for god knows how long, wouldn’t they?” His hand is on your waist, and the breath in your lungs hitches.

“That’s true…” you hum and pull away from him. “I don’t have any clothes, though. I’d need to find some before doing anything.” Juyeon clicks his tongue and leans back, a thoughtful look taking over the previous…you don’t even know what to call what you were doing. Was he flirting with you? Were you flirting with him?

“That’s true,” he nods his head. “We can grab some from the store tomorrow? And for now, you can borrow some of my stuff— I mean, if you’re comfortable with that.” He stumbles over his words again, and you can’t help but laugh. “Kevin’s clothes might fit you better but— you’re laughing. Why are— why are you laughing at me.”

“You’re just—” You break into another fit of giggles, covering your mouth with your hand to try and muffle the noise. “God, you’re so dumb.”

“How am I dumb?” Juyeon pouts at you, and you know he just wants you to be comfortable.

“Never mind,” you wave him off, “let’s just get going. I’m tired and wet.” Juyeon raises an eyebrow, and you roll your eyes. “Not like that, stripper boy.”

“I know,” he grins at you and tugs you by the sleeve to get you to start walking. “I just wanted to mess with you a little bit.”

“Seems like that’s all you do.” You roll your eyes. “And please tell me you drove here. I am not walking to the house in shorts and slippers.” Juyeon clicks his tongue.

“As if I would walk anywhere in this weather.” He reaches into his pocket and you hear the click of a button, and then the lights of a car in front of you light up. He jogs forward, grabbing the handle of the passenger side door for you with a bright smile on his face. “After you, m’lady.”

“What a gentleman,” you shut the umbrella and duck into the vehicle.

“Only for you, pretty girl.” He winks at you and shuts the door.

Juyeon is quiet when you exit his bathroom. Your hair is wrapped in a towel, your body swamped in Juyeon’s clothes. He’s lying flat on his back on his mattress, his legs dangling off the edge and his fingers drumming on his stomach. Your feet shuffle against the ground, the fabric of his sweatpants covering your feet entirely and dragging behind you. His t-shirt is almost like a dress on you, hanging down to your thighs and the sleeves baggy along your arms where it would be formfitting on him.

“Where should I put these?” Juyeon lifts his head, and you hear a sharp inhale. He’s staring at you, and the gaze is heavy with something you can’t place.

“You—” his voice cracks and he sits up fully, resting his elbows on his knees. “You can just toss them in the basket next to you. I’ll— I’ll wash it tomorrow.” You hum, doing as he says and tossing your clothing into the basket.

His room is…weirdly clean. At least, it’s cleaner than you expected it to be for a frat boy. There’s a bit of laundry scattered across the room, sure, but you don’t feel gross just standing there. The floor is clean, the bed is made.

The bed.

The one bed in the room.

“Where— where should I set up a spot to sleep?” You wring your hands behind your back.

“What?” Juyeon stares at you dumbly, his eyes blank and jaw dropped slightly. If you look closely, you swear you can see a puddle of drool on the floor in front of him. Unintentionally, you snort and immediately slap a hand over your mouth.

“I just— I mean this is your room, stripper boy.” You shrug, trying to keep the air as light as possible. “Where should I set up camp for the next three days?”

“You are not sleeping on the floor.” Juyeon shakes his head and pushes off the edge of his bed.

“Then where am I gonna sleep?”

“The bed?” He says it as if it’s obvious. “The fuck? You really thought I was gonna make you sleep on the floor?”

“Stripper boy, I am not sleeping in your bed.” You click your tongue.

“Yes, you are, pretty girl.” He takes a step toward you. “I’m not gonna let you sleep on the floor! First of all, you’re a guest. Second of all, I’m a gentleman. Third of all, I’m—” he cuts himself short again and you raise an eyebrow.

“Well, then I’ll sleep on the couch downstairs. That’ll solve it.” You move to the door, but he grabs your upper arm and pulls you toward him. “Dude, you have got to stop grabbing me like that. It’s kind of annoying.”

“Sorry.” He exhales and lets go of your arm, brushing his hand across the skin he grabbed as if to soothe it. It sends sparks of heat through your arm, and you fight back a shiver. “I just— what if we share my bed?”

You stare at him for a moment.

Then another.

And then another.

And then Juyeon is wincing and stepping away from you.

“I was just— that was stupid. I’m sorry.”

“I mean…” you purse your lips. “If it solves the problem, then sure.”

“Wait seriously?” His eyes bug out of his head and you laugh. “You’re comfortable with that?”

“Stripper boy, if you thought I was gonna kick you out of your bed, then you have a whole new thing coming.” He rolls his eyes. “We can just…I dunno. Put pillows between us?”

“Yeah, that works. That works just fine.” He sighs heavily. Just fine. He’s gonna be just fine these next few days.

Juyeon realizes very quickly that it will not, in fact, be fine. He realizes this when he wakes up in the middle of the night, the pillows between the two of you thrown to the edge of the bed and your body wrapped around his like a vice. One of your legs is hooked around his, the other strewn across his hip to lock him down. You have one arm tucked under his, holding his shoulder while your free arm has slipped around his waist, under his shirt so your fingers are splayed across his abdomen. Your head is seemingly strategically placed on his chest, and he can feel every breath you release. He can feel every pulse of your heartbeat against his leg—

Wait.

…

Oh, this arrangement is not going to be good for his heart.

He tries desperately to shift away from you, to gently pry you off of him, anything to get the pounding in his chest to go away. Anything to stop the blood from rushing to his dick like some goddamn virgin. It’s a normal thing. It’s not something to get fucking hard over, Lee Juyeon. Pull yourself together.

It feels like ages before he’s able to pull himself free, nearly falling out of his bed to get away from you. He freezes in place when he hears you shift, a quiet moan leaving you when your sleeping self finds the spot Juyeon once lay frozen is now empty. His heart is pounding, his feet padding quickly against the floor to get to his bathroom. He’s quick to shut the door, cringing at the squeak of the hinges. Gotta get those fixed, he notes. For future reference, of course.

He’s hard in his sweats, his dick straining against the fabric, and his body feels like it’s on fire. Juyeon leans against the counter, tapping his foot anxiously while he stares at himself in the mirror. His cheeks are flushed, his hair a mess, and his pupils are blown out. He grips the marble counter, squeezing his eyes shut and praying to god that he softens soon because he cannot and will not jerk off to you. Not when you’re right there, one thin wall over.

Thinking that was a mistake. His dick twitches in his pants at the thought of you waking up and finding him in the bathroom, cock in hand, and frantically trying to rub one out.

Oh, he’s so fucked, he squeezes his eyes shut as he shoves his sweatpants down just enough to be able to grab himself. Just enough for him to spring free and let the cold air wash over him.

Juyeon is completely, royally fucked, and he knows it as he spits on his hand. He knows it when he wraps his hand around his cock. Juyeon knows it when his body shudders from the first pump of his hand, the brush of his thumb across his tip. He knows it when he fights the whine trying to erupt from his throat.

He knows it when he cums in his hand, ropes of white covering his palm when he places his hand over his tip to minimize the mess. He knows it when all he thought about was you. You and your pretty face. You who calls him stripper boy, who hasn't hesitated to shoot him down every chance you get. You who he’s pretty damn sure is into him in the same way he’s into you.

It’s hard for Juyeon to get back in his bed and lie down next to you knowing that just a few minutes ago he came in his hand to the thought of you. It’s even harder for him to fall back to sleep when you wrap yourself around him again, relaxing against his body and releasing a contented sigh. He tries so, so hard to relax with you, to steady his pounding heart.

God, he’s so fucked.

"When did you get here?” There’s a boy— a man, really— standing at the counter when you and Juyeon walk into the kitchen in the morning. The man is holding a ceramic Garfield mug that you assume is filled with coffee, and he’s got his phone in his free hand. You give him a short wave, and he nods back at you.

Juyeon had been odd the whole morning. Or, at least, the two hours you had been awake and the one hour since he’d woken up and immediately rolled to his feet to get away from you. Something about morning wood. Since then, he’d been keeping a healthy distance from you, flinching away from your touch and giving short responses to your questions and statements. It makes you nervous. Were you intruding? Did he regret asking you to stay?

“Last night,” Juyeon answers for you, leading you to the bar counter and pulling out a chair for you to sit in. “Y/N, this is Sangyeon. He’s the Tau Beta Zeta president. Sangyeon, this is Y/N. She’s gonna be staying with us for the next couple of days.”

Sangyeon squints at you, gnawing at his lip in thought.

“And you guys are…what? Friends? Lovers? Fuck buddies?” You scoff and Juyeon whips his head around, nearly spilling coffee onto his hand.

“None of the above,” you wave your hand and almost miss the flash of emotion in Juyeon’s eyes. “Just someone who needed a hand, and strip- Juyeon happened to be there.” Sangyeon turns to Juyeon with an inquisitive look on his face. Juyeon shakes his head and turns back to you with two mugs in his hand.

“I didn’t know how you take your coffee so I just threw some cream and a bit of sugar in there.” The mug he slides over to you is shaped like a ladybug, and you can’t help the laugh that escapes you at the sight of his mug. Normal, compared to yours. Just plain white with text that says ‘Stupid people shouldn’t breed!’. “What’s so funny?”

“Just the…interesting arrangement of mugs you all have here.” You smile at Juyeon, but he just scoffs. Sangyeon excuses himself and pats Juyeon on the shoulder before making his exit up the stairs.

“I’ll have you know that I picked these all out.” He defends, but you can see the embarrassment in the flush of his cheeks, the dark color spreading to the tips of his ears. “You got a problem with them?”

“No, no,” you smile into your mug and take a sip. It’s bitter, and a bit watered down, but you’re grateful for the caffeine boost. “It’s cute, really. You made some great choices, stripper boy.”

“That sounded sarcastic,” Juyeon pouts at you and you shake your head.

“It wasn’t!” You reassure him, leaning your torso onto the counter. Juyeon stands near you now, on the shorter edge of the counter and he scoffs.

“Sure it wasn’t. Because you’re the most supportive person in the world of my decisions.” He turns away from you, staring at the magnetic words on the refrigerator instead of at you and you rise from your seat to stand by his side.

“Juyooo,” your voice is sing-song in tone and Juyeon fights every instinct inside of him that screams to pin you to the counter and fuck you senseless. “Are you mad at me?”

“Of course I am,” he rolls his eyes and tilts his chin up when you come to stand in front of him.

“Why?” You frown, but the corners of your lips fight to turn up.

“You made fun of me!”

“Yeah, but it was all in good fun!” You protest. “I think your choice of mugs was cute!”

“No you don’t,” he scoffs and crosses his arms. “You think they’re stupid.”

“No,” you shake your head. “I think they’re adorable.”

“Bullshit,” Juyeon says. “You think they’re stupid.”

“I do not.” You groan.

“You do!”

“Do not!”

“Do too!”

“Do no—”

Juyeon’s lips are on yours, and you let out a startled gasp, your hand flying up and finding purchase on his chest.

You try to push him off, you really do! You think about it, you tell your body to push him off, and then somehow you end up pulling him closer, allowing your eyes to slip closed. Isn’t it so weird how that happens?

Your hand is holding his shirt tightly, keeping him close to you while your lips mesh in a sloppy kiss. His lips are rough against yours, his teeth nipping at your lower lip and then his tongue slips out and soothes the bites. The repeated actions have your legs trembling, your breathing becoming shaky, and your hand that isn’t in his shirt rises to the back of his neck to tangle in his hair and pull him impossibly closer to you.

His hands are all over you. They run up and down your waist, brushing under the waistband of the sweatpants he lent you, pushing into your back to keep you close to him. They run under your shirt, grazing the underside of your shirt, and he smiles when he feels you exhale shakily against him.

You hesitantly, and ever so slowly, push your tongue out, letting it run across his lower lip and you’re a bit too pleased when he opens up for you immediately. He lets you push your tongue into his mouth, lets you explore, and is ever so patient with your hesitance.

Gently, oh so gently, he sucks on your tongue while you try to pull it back into your mouth and you release the tiniest, almost inaudible whine.

Apparently, to your complete dismay, this snaps Juyeon back into reality and he pulls away from you. He pulls away quickly, almost stumbling back and into some of the bar stools. You’re standing there, almost in a daze, and both of you just stare at each other for a moment. He doesn’t say anything, and neither do you, and Juyeon can tell that you’re regretting what the two of you just did.

And it hurts. It really hurts when you open your mouth, going to speak and nothing comes out. He smiles sadly.

“I should find a way to get to the store. You’re gonna need some clothes for the next few days.”

“Juyeon, wait—” You reach for him, but he just shakes his head.

“It’s fine, pretty girl.” He reassures you, but his voice breaks and betrays him. “No hard feelings. Let’s just forget it happened.”

“I don’t want to forget that!” You protest, but Juyeon just shakes his head.

“Like I said, pretty girl,” He grabs his mug and smiles at you. There’s no emotion behind it, at least not one that you want to recognize. “We gotta get you some clothes for the next three days.”

It’s infuriating how quickly he seems to move on. Three days pass by, and not once has he even hinted about talking about what happened. It was almost like he’d forgotten about it entirely.

Which, to your dismay, was exactly what he wanted you to do. It wasn’t as if you regretted the kiss, at least not in the way he thought. The regret that you knew you had let slip was from pulling away in the first place. You had only meant to come up for air, knowing that you would likely drown in him had you given yourself the chance. Now, due to your own stupid mistakes, the tables have turned for you.

He’d been avoiding you since you moved back into your apartment two days ago. He’d avoided you in the classes you were now all too aware that you shared. It stung that he no longer sought you out, no longer yelled your name from across the room, and drew unwanted attention to you. He no longer pressured you to call the number on that damn flier that sat untouched on your desk.

“You could always just, I dunno,” Chanhee is lying on your bed, scrolling on his phone while you rant about his frat brother. “Call the number? I’m pretty sure it’s his number anyway.”

“Wait seriously?” You spin around in your desk chair, turning away from the project you two are supposed to be working on together.

“Yeah, it just happened to be really convenient that the last four digits of his phone number spelled junk. What do you think of this?” He flips his phone around to show you a coat. A black trench coat, nothing too fancy about it.

“Eh. You have plenty of those, don’t you?”

“True.” He nods and lays back down.

“Should I really call him?” You lean your head back on your chair, lacing your fingers together on your lap. “What if he hates me, Chanhee?”

“Trust me, Y/N,” Chanhee exhales heavily, “that man does not hate you.”

“But how do you know that?” You ask. “If he told you that, he could be lying to you!”

“Girl,” Chanhee throws his phone down onto your mattress and sits up straight. “If a man hates you, he is not going to jack off at 3 in the goddamn morning— with his frat brothers in the other room that connects to his bathroom, mind you— to the thought of you. Trust me. He doesn’t hate you.”

“You don’t— I’m sorry, what?” Your eyes are bugging out of your head and Chanhee grimaces in a way that tells you that he was not supposed to tell you that.

“Oops…”

“What do you mean he— Chanhee, what are you talking about?” Chanhee is already rising from your bed, grabbing his laptop, and sliding his shoes on.

“I think it’s time for me to get out of here,” he tells you with a tight smile on his face. He comes toward you though, holding the flier in his hand. “But, I really think you should call this number. Could really help you both, I think.”

When the door shuts behind your classmate, you sit in silence for a moment. A few moments, really, just holding the first flier that Juyeon ever gave you in your hand. There’s a little bit of water damage from the flooding, but the number in the middle of the page is still there. It’s almost ironic that Juyeon’s phone number is the only part of the advertisement that isn’t ruined, like something was telling you that you needed to call Juyeon.

Your phone rings once, then twice, and you hear the line click on the other side.

“Thank you for calling College Hunks, what junk can we haul for you today?”

It takes Juyeon a little over an hour to get to your apartment. By that point, you’d gathered anything that you didn’t want into trash bags and set them in your living room. Each bag is organized to an extent. Things to be recycled, to be donated, or just thrown away. Most of the items that needed to be thrown away were damaged when your apartment building flooded, each damaged beyond repair. Almost like fate, isn’t it?

There’s a knock on your door. One, two, three. Your hands are shaking a bit when you grab the door handle. One, two, th—

You practically rip the door open before Juyeon can finish knocking. He’s standing there, wide-eyed with his mouth hanging open. The outfit he’s wearing is the same as the day he first showed up at your door. White tank top, cargo pants, and some worn-out sneakers. For once, his hair isn’t styled. He’s parted it down the middle, a little bit of gel used to keep it from falling into his face too much.

“Hi,” you breathe out. It’s like Juyeon is stuck in a trance, his hand still frozen mid-knock and his mouth opening and closing like a damn fish. “You— do you want to come in?” Juyeon blinks.

“Uh…yeah, yeah sure.” You step to the side, allowing him to walk into your apartment. It’s awkward, to say the least. When you shut your door, the click makes both of you flinch and suddenly you’ve forgotten everything that you wanted to say to him.

“Is this—” Juyeon’s voice cracks a little bit, and he turns to face you but he doesn’t look you in the eye. “Is this everything?”

“Yeah,” you nod, “yeah it is. Needed to get rid of some stuff after the building flooded, you know?” You laugh, but he doesn’t and you’re quick to shut your mouth. Say something, dammit. Anything. Your mind is screaming, whether at you or Juyeon you aren’t entirely sure. “Juyeon, can we ta—”

“I should get started then,” he cuts you off and you grimace. “Got a couple of appointments today, so I can’t linger for long.”

“Right…” your voice trails off. “Yeah, I’ll get out of your way then.”

Plan A is a bust, then.

Juyeon moves quickly. You don’t know if it’s work ethic or if he wants to get away from you as fast as possible, but it stings. You don’t say anything to each other the whole time, not that you staying in your bedroom the whole time did anything to help the situation. You can hear him moving around, carrying bag after bag down to his car, but not once does he come to talk to you. Not even about the junk he’s carrying out.

Your forehead is against your desk, your eyes shut tightly as you try to block out the noise, knowing that he’ll be carrying out the last bag soon. The sound of your feet tapping on the ground is almost enough to drown out Juyeon, but not quite enough to drown out the knocking at your bedroom door.

Your head snaps up, and you spin around to face Juyeon.

“Hi,” he gives you a tight smile. “I just— I brought out the last bag so I guess— I guess I should go, huh?”

Don’t, you want to tell him, don’t leave yet.

“Yeah, I guess so.” You stand up and clear your throat. “Here, what’s your Venmo? I can send you some money.”

Juyeon shakes his head. “I already told you that you don’t have to pay me.”

“Yeah, you did,” you agree. “But I’d feel bad if I let you leave empty-handed.”

“I’m not leaving emptyhanded, though!” He argues. “I have your junk! Which, surprisingly, all fit into the trunk of my car.”

“Go you,” you cheer halfheartedly. “That’s not gonna stop me from paying you.”

“Pretty girl,” he warns. “I’m not gonna let you pay me.”

“Then I’ll get Chanhee to tell me your Venmo.” You grin and Juyeon rolls his eyes.

“You’re not gonna let this go, will you?”

“Nope,” you let the sound of the p pop when you say it and Juyeon lets out a dry laugh.

“You’re gonna be the death of me, you know that right?”

“That’s the plan.” you look at him, and this time he’s looking right back at you. The awkward air has cleared, and it almost feels normal. Like it was prior to the kiss. God, please let Plan B work. “Are you gonna tell me what your account is, or am I gonna have to find some other way to pay you?”

There’s a spark of something in Juyeon’s eyes, and his eyebrows knit together. Please get it, please get it, please get it. C’mon Juyeon, don’t be dense.

“Some other way?” He echoes, and you mentally cheer when he steps toward you.

“Mhm!” You bob your head. “Like you said, there are other ways to pay you, aren’t there?”

He’s right in front of you now, and you swear you see him start to reach for you before he’s forcing his hands back down to his sides.

“You’re not—” he inhales and squeezes his eyes shut. “Please tell me I’m not misinterpreting this.”

“Depends on what you think I’m saying.” You smirk, and Juyeon starts to lean down, his eyes flitting from your eyes to your lips.

“What I think you’re offering,” he speaks slowly and you can feel his breath on your lips. “Is not exactly…appropriate, pretty girl.”

“And I think you’re right.” You’re practically whispering, every movement from your mouth causes your lips to brush against his and you’re so close to caving and just yanking him down to crush his lips against yours.

Thankfully, Juyeon moves fast and he’s grabbing you by the waist to yank you to him and your hands are in his hair by the time his lips are on your.

This kiss is heavier than the first. It’s messier and sloppier and his tongue is in your mouth, pushing at yours and licking at every nook and cranny that he can reach. You walk him backward to your bed. You don’t separate your mouths, not when you push him down onto your mattress, not when you sit on his lap with your legs on either side of him. Your nails dig into his shoulders, leaving little crescents indented into his skin.

Juyeon groans at the stinging feeling, sliding his hands under your shirt and gently pushing it up. He does it slowly, giving you time to stop him, but you get impatient and shove him back until he’s lying down. His hands are still on your waist, and he’s watching with a hazy gaze as you lift your shirt over your head and throw it somewhere across the room.

“Shit, pretty girl,” he breathes out and tries to slide his hands up to your chest. You’re smirking when you slap his hands away.

“No touching yet,” you tell him and he groans in response.

“You can’t just do this and not let me touch you!” He whines. “It’s not fair!”

“You should’ve thought about that before you ignored me for a week,” you retort and he falls silent. “It’s fine, though. I’ll just get you back with this.” Your hands reach behind your back and you swiftly unclip your bra and throw that in the direction you’d thrown your shirt in. Juyeon’s hands lurch up to touch you again but you’re faster, grabbing his wrists and pinning them down to his sides with a click of your tongue.

“Y/N please,” Juyeon begs, his breath hitching in his throat when you leave him completely, and he can only watch as you unbutton your jeans and tug the rest of your clothing off. He’s practically drooling as he sits up, watching you undress for him. He watches you walk to your dresser, digging through your drawers for a moment before returning with a long piece of silk. “Oh, you’ve gotta be fucking joking.”

You laugh at his reaction and toss the silk onto the mattress behind him.

“Why would I be joking, Juyeon?” You stand between his legs, and you grin when he doesn’t even try to touch you this time. You can see the tent in his cargo pants and let your hands trace up and down his thighs. “Take off your shirt for me?”

There’s a dangerous look in your eye, one that Juyeon can’t find himself wanting to disobey and he’s lifting his shirt over his head without a second thought. Your eyes widen ever so slightly and Juyeon can’t help but smirk. He knows he’s attractive, knows that his body catches people’s attention and he’s proud of that.

With you, however, there’s something different about how you look at him. Something primal, like a predator looking at her prey and he shifts in his spot.

“Pants too.” He nods and rises to his feet again, tensing when you raise your hands. “What are you stopping for? Get moving, don’t you have other appointments to get to?” Your hands are tracing the lines of his abs, feeling the way he flinches at your touch. You continue to trace his body as he bends down to lower his pants and boxers to the ground. Your hands raise to the backs of his shoulders, to the back of his neck, and let them slip down to his pecs when he stands straight again.

You almost let yourself falter when you see his cock for the first time. It’s big, bigger than any you’ve taken in the past, and you can’t help but imagine what he’d looked like when he was thinking of you. Did he look as messy as he does now, eyes practically crazed, his breathing labored as he fisted himself? Did he watch himself in the mirror, imagining it was your hand instead of his own?

“So pretty, baby.” You breathe out, letting your hand drop down to wrap around his cock. He sucks in a breath, letting it out when he whines at the feeling of you running your hand up and down, squeezing at the base, and rubbing your thumb along the tip. “So pretty.”

You push him back again, releasing him from your grasp and following him as he slides up your bed. You take the silk in your hand, gesturing for him to put his hands above his head, tying the silk tightly around his wrists so he can’t get loose. Juyeon lets out another broken whine when you straddle him, running your fingers over your core and gathering the wetness on your fingers. You allow yourself to moan quietly, gauging Juyeon’s reaction to you touching yourself. He’s staring with his mouth hanging open, his cock twitching against his abdomen as he watches you sink two fingers into your core. He whines when your body shudders against him, when you curl your fingers up into you.

“Is this what you think about, Juyeon?” You try your best to keep your voice steady when you speak. “Do you think about this when you touch yourself? When you lock yourself in the bathroom, jacking off to the thought of me like some little virgin?” He doesn’t respond, too lost in the sight of you riding your own hand.

He doesn’t see you reach your free hand up, gasping when he feels you squeeze your fingers around his throat. Not too tightly, but enough to get his attention back on you.

“I asked you a question, baby.” You pull your fingers out of your dripping pussy, gazing at the arousal covering your hand and humming in thought. “I guess I should give a reason to not answer, shouldn’t I?”

“Please,” Juyeon whispers out, and you smile when you raise your fingers to his mouth.

“Go on then,” you tell him, “suck.”

His head lurches forward, taking your fingers into his mouth and moaning at the taste of you. He runs his tongue along your fingers, and you inhale sharply, your eyelids drooping when he tries to open his eyes, trying to watch and gauge your reaction.

“Cleanin’ me up good, hm?” You pull your fingers from his mouth and Juyeon takes this time to catch his breath, to gather himself. You don’t give him long though, no more than a few moments before you’re grabbing his cock in your dainty hand and lining it up with your pussy.

“Fuck,” Juyeon throws his head back, his hands curling into fists, and groaning as you sink down on him. Your walls are squeezing so tightly around him, and he knows it has to be a stretch for you but you act as if it was nothing for you, as if he didn’t hit that sweet spot inside of you just by you sinking down on him. You let your eyes drift shut, fighting back the urge to start riding him until he has nothing left to give you. You can feel him twitching inside of you, knowing that he’s close just from your warm walls squeezing around him. “Fuck, pretty girl, please.”

“Please what, baby?” You coo, the hand on his throat squeezing gently. He whines and you grin. “Use those words, pretty boy. You can do it.”

“Let me fuck you,” he gasps out and you let out a yelp when he thrusts his hips up and sends you falling over his body.

Your breasts are in his face now, and he doesn’t give you the chance to do anything before he’s bringing his arms down and trapping you against him as best he can. He thrusts his hips up, driving his cock into you at a pace that you couldn’t keep up with if you tried. He reaches his head up, his teeth latching onto one of your nipples and practically forcing you to follow him as he brings his head back down. Juyeon sucks at your breast, pinning your chest against his face with his arms that he’s brought to rest between your shoulder blades. Every one of his thrusts sends you up his body, but he does his damn best to keep you in place, sucking and licking and biting at both of your tits, groaning every time your cunt clenches around him.

You feel like you can’t breathe, the air being punched out of you in broken moans and pitched whines. Juyeon is in about the same state as you, the noises he’s letting out are louder than yours, more frequent, and it brings a fresh wave of arousal washing over you.

“Are you close, pretty boy?” You gasp out. “Gonna— gonna cum for me?”

“Fuck, yes,” He throws his head back, his hips stuttering against yours. You bring one of your hands down to your clit, rubbing furious circles into it, letting your walls flutter around him and drawing both of you closer to your orgasms.

When you cum, it has you seeing stars. Your orgasm has you crying out his name, has you clenching around him so tightly that he’s finishing not long after you. You sink your body back, rolling your hips gently over his and placing a firm kiss on his lips. Your tongue pushes into his mouth, swallowing the sounds he makes as he pumps white hot cum into your core. It’s less of a kiss this time, though, and more teeth gnashing together and biting at each other’s lips.

His hips slow down after a minute or two, and you let your body relax against his, reaching up to untie the silk around his wrists.

“Fucking finally,” he groans and lets his hands roam your sweaty body. “Thought I was gonna die if you kept me tied up any longer.” You laugh, letting your head drop to his chest.

“That’s what you get for making me wait.”

“Yeah, whatever,” he rolls his eyes at you. “And you called me a try-hard.”

“Because you are, Juyeon.” You roll off of him, staring at your ceiling while you lay next to him on your mattress.

“Whatever you say, pretty girl,” he rolls his head to look at you with a cheeky grin on his face.

“Why are you smiling like that?” Your eyebrows knit together. He just keeps smiling. “What, stripper boy.”

“You know what all this means, right?” You shrug.

“That I have to go to all your parties now or you’re gonna hunt me down?” He laughs and you smile a bit.

“That, and I get to call you my girlfriend.”

“I never agreed to that.” You deny, turning on your side and facing him fully.

“Sure you did! It was at the very bottom of the flier I gave you.” He tells you.

“No, it wasn’t.” You frown.

“Yeah, it was!” He sits up, reaching for the second flier he gave you that had been placed on your bedside table. “See? Right there at the bottom in tiny font that I knew you wouldn’t pay attention to!” You squint at the words he’s pointing at and let out a scoff.

“Seriously, stripper boy? If your name is Y/N L/N and you redeem this offer, you are legally obligated to become Lee Juyeon’s boyfriend, whether you like it or not. Xoxo.” You push the paper back into his hands. "When did you even put this on there? We hardly knew each other when you gave me this flier."

“I told you!” He beams and lays back down. “You’re my girlfriend now.”

"Cute, but that doesn't answer my question, stripper boy." He digs his fingers into your side, pulling you closer to him, and grins.

"Does it matter?"

"I mean...I guess not?"

"Exactly."

“Does this mean that when we break up, I get half of all your assets?” He glares at you playfully.

“Fuck, no.”

“Damn…” you sigh and lay down with your head on his chest. “I guess I’ll have to put up with you for life then, huh?”

“Mhm.” He cards his hands through your hair, gently combing through the knots. “You excited to spend the next 75 years with me, girlfriend?”

“Not at all, boyfriend.”

“Yes, you are.”

“…Try-hard.”

2K notes · View notes

sluttywonwoo · 1 month ago

Text

the roster | part two of three

pairing: christopher bahng + lee sangyeon + choi seuncheol x f!reader

summary: what happens when all the guys on your roster find out about each other?

warnings: see here (mdni!!!)

word count: 2.8k

series masterlist

“Are we going in age order?” Sangyeon asks. The question is directed more to Seungcheol than it is to you.

The older man shrugs. “It’s your house.”

You can tell that isn’t the answer Sangyeon wanted to hear from the way he purses his lips. Always so indecisive, that man.

You make the decision for him, propping yourself up on your elbows and beckoning him closer.

“Come here, Sangyeon.”

He listens promptly and approaches the bedside, eyes wide like he doesn’t know why you called him over.

“Kiss me.”

You grab a handful of his t-shirt and tug him forward into a kiss, grinning when he makes a sound of surprise against your lips.

“Guess, I’m up,” he mumbles once you let go.

“You’ve been ‘up’ for the last twenty minutes,” Seungcheol prods.

“Like you haven’t been,” Sangyeon shoots back.

“Yeah, yeah, you’re all hard, we get it. We don’t have all night.”

“Always so impatient,” Sangyeon murmurs, wrapping a possessive hand around your throat and using it to keep you in place as he kisses you again.

You expect him to climb on top of you like Chris had but instead he gets both arms underneath you and pulls you on top of him. It’s a little awkward, especially considering you’re already naked and he’s still fully clothed, but once he has you on his lap he has no problem getting comfortable underneath you.

When your lips reconnect, he takes over, cradling the back of your head in his palm as the kiss gets heated and you start to grind down on his lap. You wonder absently if you taste different after kissing another man. You wonder if the thought even crosses Sangyeon’s mind. There’s no indication that it does- or at least no indication that it bothers him if it does. He still moans into each kiss and he doesn’t shy away from using tongue.

Out of the three of them, Sangyeon talks the least during sex. You suppose he must not feel the need for words when he can use his body instead. Most things are unspoken between the two of you in bed, it all just comes so naturally. It’s almost like you can read each other’s minds to an extent.

Tonight is different because you aren’t alone. There are too many distractions for you to be able to focus on just each other.

So instead of signaling to you with expressions or movements, he simply asks you to, “sit on my face?”

Your eyes roll to the back of your head at the request alone.

“I’ll take that as a yes?”

It isn’t uncommon for Sangyeon’s face to be between your legs at some point in the night. Whether he’s making you cum on his tongue to get you ready for his cock or eating you out in between rounds while he recovers, he makes it his mission to taste you at least once.

For some reason, you’re surprised he still wants to go down on you in front of the other guys. There’s no reason for him not to, you just weren’t expecting it. You certainly won’t pass up the opportunity, though. If he’s offering, who are you to deny him the pleasure?

“Let me take my shirt off first,” Sangyeon says as you climb off his lap to let him get situated. “Don’t want to ruin another one.”

Heat rushes to your cheeks and you huff, “ruin is a little dramatic, Sang. All of your shirts have been fine after a cycle in the wash.”

His shit-eating grin gets even wider. “I was just teasing, baby,” he insists as he settles flat on his back and reaches out for you. “C’mere.”

“You’re all so mean to me,” you complain, taking his hand anyway.

Chris laughs behind you. You hadn’t even heard him come back into the room. “We could be a lot meaner if we wanted to be,” he points out and sets the glass of water he’d fetched for you on the dresser. “Do you have coasters?”

“Living room coffee table,” Sangyeon answers before turning his attention back to you. “Ready?”

“I don’t think I can hold myself up,” you admit. You’ve already cum twice tonight and you don’t have much lower body strength to begin with.

It seems like the odds are stacked against you in all things tonight.

“So? That’s never been a problem before.”

“I-I know, I just wanted to let you know in case something happens.”

“Nothing’s going to happen,” he promises. “Stop stalling.”

With a sigh, you relent. You use Sangyeon’s hands to steady yourself as you straddle his face and settle down onto it. You try to be gentle but he grabs your thighs and hauls you on top of him, using your weak legs against you.

Your back is turned to the other two men but you can still hear them jeering at the man underneath you. You want to tell them to shut the fuck up, namely Seungcheol, but you’re already at a loss for words, too consumed by the man who’s consuming you.

Sangyeon moans your name into your cunt, urging you to rock your hips into his face. He licks and sucks at any part of you he can reach before slipping his tongue inside of you. His nose rests on your clit, stimulating it every time you grind forward.

When you first started sleeping with Sangyeon, you were delighted to find that the rumors about men with big noses were in fact true. At least, they were true when it came to him. His nose is definitely something he uses to his advantage when he gives you head, which has admittedly made it the best you’ve ever had.

There’s something so erotic about being eaten out by someone after someone else has been inside you. Maybe it’s the fact that the aforementioned man who had been inside of you is also watching it happen— or maybe it’s that Sangyeon had been the one to ask you to ride his face— either way, you’re on the edge again before you can even let yourself enjoy it.

You try to raise yourself a couple of inches off his face to catch a break from the unrelenting pleasure but Sangyeon protests by putting his hands on your hips and pulling you back down. The headboard saves you from hitting your head against the wall (again) when you slump forward. You then use it to brace yourself, gaining more control over your movements as you roll your hips in time with the pattern of his tongue.

“I know she tastes good but god damn,” Chris murmurs.

It sounds like he’s mostly talking to Seungcheol but Sangyeon chimes in anyway, tapping on your hip as a way to ask you to lift up. It isn’t without difficulty, but you do manage to hover above him, thighs trembling with the effort.

“Does she not make those sounds when you’re eating her out?"

Both of the observers are either too proud or too annoyed to respond.

"You know what, turn around,” Sangyeon decides, smacking your ass to spur you on. “Want you to see them.”

It's a strategic move that’s for your benefit and his. He knows you’ll get off on the visual of the other two men watching you get eaten out, which in turn helps him. It's actually doubly beneficial to Sangyeon because he also gets to rub the effect he’s having on you in their faces, literally.

You’re exhausted but with Sangyeon’s help you’re able to flip around so that you’re facing the other way.

Seungcheol gives you a little wave. Chris just tilts his head to the side, keeping his arms crossed across his chest. He’d put his boxers back on at some point but was still mostly undressed.

“You okay there, princess?” Seungcheol asks condescendingly, “are you gonna make it?”

You glare at him. “I’ll be fine.”

“She won’t be for long,” Sangyeon interjects, pulling you back down onto his face and effectively eliminating any chance you had to tell him off for his own cocky comment.

He’s back at it as soon as you’re low enough for him to reach. You have all the grace of a newborn fawn, your arms sprawling out on the mattress as you attempt to catch yourself when you inevitably lose your balance.

It’s a pitiful display, and you want to blame Sangyeon, but you know you have no one to blame but yourself for the position you’re in now.

“Oh, baby,” Chris hums, pulling what little focus you have left, “can’t even hold yourself up anymore? Feels that good?”

Sangyeon moans something no one can understand into your pussy. You’re not sure whether he’s trying to get on to Chris for interfering, which would be hypocritical considering he did the same thing when it was Chan’s turn, or if his taunting is also turning him on. Knowing Sangyeon, you’re willing to bet it’s the latter.

“Do you need help, angel?”

Chris steps forward and offers his hand to you.

You look over to Seungcheol in question. “Is that allowed?”

You hate that you also default to him as the one in charge even though he doesn’t technically have any standing above the other two.

He just shrugs, unhelpful as ever.

“I’m not helping him,” Chris clarifies. “I’m helping her stay upright.”

Since Seungcheol doesn’t protest, you take Chris up on his offer and let him support you. His grip stays loose enough so that you’re still able to somewhat control the rhythm (or lack thereof) of your hips as you ride Sangyeon’s face.

It’s a struggle to keep your eyes open but you’re determined to see their expressions, both of which are a mix of undeniable arousal and barely concealed envy. You have to admit that it’s addicting, the feeling of their attention, the rush of adrenaline that comes from knowing you hold all three men in the palm of your hand— at least in this moment. You can’t help secretly hoping this won’t be the last time something like this happens.

“Close again?” Chris asks.

You nod, accidentally making yourself dizzier.

“Please let me this time,” you beg Sangyeon, “please let me cum.”

Sangyeon doesn’t usually deny you, only making exceptions if you’ve been bratty, but after getting so close and losing it last time you don’t want to risk it happening again.

Thankfully, he mumbles something that sounds like “go ahead,” against you which is all the permission you need to let go.

You squeeze Chan’s hand hard as it hits you. The pleasure is almost too much. You try leaning forward to get some kind of reprieve but both Sangyeon and Chris keep you in place so that you’re forced to ride it out.

You’re more surprised than you probably should be when you do finally get off Sangyeon’s face and see that he’s completely drenched. He’s literally dripping with you.

You’ve yet to catch your breath but you still have the wherewithal to be mortified. “Oh, Sang, I’m sorry- I didn’t mean to.”

Sangyeon grins at you as he wipes his mouth with the back of his hand. “It’s a good thing I took my shirt off, huh?”

“Should I grab a towel?” Chris asks, making little to no effort to suppress his own smile.

“I’ve got it,” Sangyeon assures him and reaches over to the opposite nightstand. He opens the drawer to reveal a stash of folded washcloths and grabs one from the top. “This happens pretty often,” he explains as he dries himself off.

“You’re very prepared,” Seungcheol remarks. He sounds genuinely impressed beneath the thick layer of condescension he lays atop the words.

Sangyeon takes it in stride and winks at him. “Gotta be.” He then redirects his attention to you. “Are you still doing okay?”

You give him a thumbs-up, much like the one he had given you earlier, and mumble out a, “fantastic”.

“Good, because I need to be inside you.”

You remain where you are on your back as Sangyeon climbs over you to fetch another condom from the first drawer. He comes back and kisses your cheek before wriggling out of his pants and rolling the condom on.

“You know I love it when you’re on top but I won’t make you do that,” he teases, positioning himself over you.

“I can be on top, you’d just have to do all the work,” you counter.

“Well, I also want to last and it was hard enough to endure you riding my face. There’s no chance I’ll survive you riding my cock, even if it is just me fucking up into you the entire time.”

You can’t argue with that and you can’t hide the giddy smile that his admission brings. Flattery does indeed get these men everywhere.

“You’re ready? Are you sure you don’t need a break or anything?” Sangyeon asks, eyes flitting over your face to try and read your expression.

“I’m ready,” you promise. “I want to feel you too.”

He doesn’t need any more convincing but he does go slow, easing the head of his cock inside of you with as much restraint as he can conjure. You both sigh, your bodies relaxing into each other as he slides home.

He embraces you with both arms, his movements short but fluid so that he can stay deep inside of you and hit that spot over and over and over again.

“How are you still so fucking tight?” he hisses. “Just got fucked by someone else and you’re still trying to suck the life out of me already?”

“I guess I’m j-just that good,” you quip.

He agrees easily. “Yeah? Pussy so good it’ll drive Cheol crazy too, right?” Maybe Sangyeon should talk more in bed if this is how he’s going to go about it. “Oh, you like the idea of that, don’t you?”

Spoke too soon.

Whereas Chris had elected not to share what made you clench harder around him, Sangyeon is calling you out for it outright. It makes you wish you could sink into the mattress or that it would close up with you inside it like one of those Murphy beds in The Sims.

Seungcheol doesn’t say anything about his friend’s comment. He doesn’t have to. You can feel the arrogance rolling off of him in waves even though you close your eyes so you don’t have to see the look on his face.

“What’s wrong?” Sangyeon presses. “Are you embarrassed, baby? Don’t be. You do look very pretty when you pout, though.”

You open your eyes again just to roll them at him but get caught up in how pretty he looks on top of you. He’d changed his position a little, raising himself above you kind of like Chris had. You’re able to get a full view of his face like this, able to see that his eyes are just as full of desire as you know yours are.

“Wrap your legs around me,” he tells you and you listen. “Is that good?”

“So good.”

Sangyeon leans back down to kiss your neck, using it as a cover to whisper in your ear so that the others can’t hear. “Please tell me you’re close too.” You dig your nails into his back as affirmation and hear him laugh to himself. “Thank god.”

“Just a little more,” you beg, not wanting it to end so soon even though you doubt you’d be able to hold back any longer.

Sangyeon does his best to heed your request, giving it to you a little faster and a little harder for a few more seconds before falling victim to the same spell you’d succumbed to moments earlier.

“Kiss me as you cum,” he practically pleads, “I’m right there with you.”

Feeling him twitch inside of you is what sends you over the edge this time and you moan his name into his mouth as you cum, the taste of yourself on his lips overtaking your senses.

You’re not sure how long it goes on for but it feels like an eternity. Sangyeon helps you ride it out as much as he can before the oversensitivity kicks in and he has to stop. He doesn’t pull out right away, though, gritting his teeth and letting you clench around his cock until the aftershocks of your orgasm subside.

The room is quiet again as the two of you come down, save for the shaky, heaving breaths coming from the both of you that cut through the silence. Sangyeon rubs your shoulder soothingly, letting you know he’s still there.

“Do you want to take that break?” Seungcheol asks once he’s fairly certain the ringing in your ears has ceased.

“I’m good,” you choke out unconvincingly.

Chris appears next to you with the cup of water in hand. You accept it gratefully and use both hands to tip it to your mouth like a child as you take several gulps.

Seungcheol runs a hand through his hair absentmindedly as he watches the two younger men dote on you.

"Fine, but don't expect me to go easy on you," he warns. "After all, you saved the best for last, baby."

omg this took me forever ;-; apologies. but lmk what you think i always appreciate feedback!!

taglist: @variety-is-the-joy-of-life @minghaosimp @butterfliesinthenightsky @lelestarmy @stolasisyourparent @brownbunnyb @tinkerbell460 @cixrosie @ariananotgrandeee @ursweetener @brownsugarbaybee @meowmeowminnie @jisunglyricist @lil-ramen-noodle @korthbum @cocofia143 @yungiprincess @fake-squirrel @moonlightgrleric @hpnsfwaddict @telepathylftv @americano4yoongi @m1nghaos @bee-the-loser @em03z25 @iamawkwardandshy @ohmygodwhyareallusernamestaken @kwannie1601 @dkyms @bath1lda @lilmeowneow @gnabnahcsworld @idkmelkro @woozarts @alltheshineofthestars-blog @chuchis-vibe @putinovertime @skz-stan-fl @gottalovesae @julciaqwerty @bobagukks @seokminstits @clickclackbait @4cheezflatbred @iarayara @johatiny @belladonna-is-alive @xsblcxracha @lasbaemorow @ilikekpop-c @xiaoboshu @throughthebluesea @kaleigh-2002 @armycarat2612 @drinkingrumandcocacola @ilovedeanspie @prodsunwoo @beyondmyownlittleworld @shuelyneon @scoups-cherry

add yourself here

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goldeunoias · 1 year ago

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Men who...

Men who use "unorthodox" ways to show you're his...

"Princess don't you know it's rude to interrupt my friends?" he'd coo, punishing you by curling his fingers deeper in your heat. Your dress would be hiked up and your straps pulled down so your chest was on full display, burying your head in embarrassment and muttering out a breathy "sorry".

He'd chuckle at the hard-ons that would grow in his friends' pants, flipping you around so your back was against his chest and your legs were forcefully held open by his own.

"Look at that princess, look how much you're turning them on," he'd tease, giving shit-eating grins to his friends.

It didn't bother him in the slightest to see you like this. You were his and his only and he was the only one who would ever bury his fingers knuckle-deep in your heat and know how warm your walls felt against his calloused hands.

Your face would burn as you heard squelching noises coming from your core, unable to stop clenching down on his digits as you thought about how turned on they were because of you.

"Shit, she's dripping down his fingers," one of the guys would groan, rubbing himself through his sweats. You yelped when he sped his fingers up, sucking gently on the fingers that came into your mouth to soothe you.

"C'mon princess, show them what happens when I rub your special spots, mkay?"

************************************

JAKE, SCOUPS, sangyeon, changbin, YUNHO, wonwoo (maybe), YUTA, TAEHYUN, jeno, maybe jaemin

#enhypen smut #the boyz smut #seventeen smut #stray kids smut #nct smut #nct 127 smut #ateez smut #nct dream smut #txt smut #daisys thoughts

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juyeonszn · 1 year ago

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BLACK OUT OR BACK OUT

THE TBZ FRAT HOUSE IS HOSTING THE BLACK OUT OR BACK OUT COLLAB BY @juyeonszn AND @itsbeeble!

YOU’RE INVITED!

PAIRING tbz x f!reader

GENRES smut ﹒fluff ﹒minimal angst ﹒crack

WARNINGS 18+ MINORS DO NOT INTERACT! mature language, mentions of alcohol, sexual content, more warnings per individual fic!

SUMMARY have you ever wondered what your favorite frat boyz are up to in their personal lives? if so, then these fics are just for you! join us as we take a glimpse into the tau beta zeta fraternity and see what they get up to in their free time!

MORE LETS GAURRRRR i’m so excited to announce this collab with loml reese both as a cute fun little idea we had and in celebration of her 1 year tumblr anniversary! we also realized it happened to be the same day as tbz day LOL so that’s kinda crazy 😭 my boyz have been here for 6 years wow 💔 anyways i hope all of u love these as much as we do! and always, don’t forget to rb if u enjoyed!! send an ask if u’d like to be tagged in these <3

PERM TAGLIST @winterchimez @maessseongs @itsbeeble @zzoguri @deoboyznet @cloverdaisies

FALL SEMESTER

TRY HARD — LEE JUYEON (12/6)

Need to get rid of some junk? Well these college hunks will haul YOUR junk! Give us a call at xxx-xxx-JUNK and we’ll haul YOUR junk for FREE! (limited time offer)

EXCITEMENT — JI CHANGMIN (12/6)

You know, when you told your girl friends that you’d never finished before, you were expecting it to blow over like no big deal. What you weren’t expecting was for it to spiral into a whole other mess.

SEEING STARS — KIM SUNWOO (12/10)

It’s slightly embarrassing how Sunwoo is naive enough to take Eric Sohn’s “advice” to heart. Luckily, you like idiots. Especially when they kick a ball into your face and agree to do a semester’s worth of school work for you.

CLUMSY — JU HAKNYEON (12/10)

When Haknyeon ran into you at a TBZ party for the first time, he didn’t think he would fall for you so quickly. Or literally. Or both simultaneously. But there’s a first time for everything, he supposes.

“FRIENDLY” COMPETITION — LEE SANGYEON (12/14)

The TBZ frat had always had a rivalry with the KAT sorority. At least, they did when you and Sangyeon became the presidents three years ago. What happens when you mix a little friendly competition into this rivalry of yours?

JE NE SAIS QUOI — JACOB BAE (12/14)

Jacob thought the concept of fraternities was stupid. So stupid that despite every single one of his friends being in one, he still refused to join. However, after meeting you at one of the TBZ parties, he’s starting to think maybe they’re not that horrible.

SPRING SEMESTER

LET LOOSE — KIM YOUNGHOON (12/19)

Younghoon has hated you. He thought you were stuck up with that better-than-you princess attitude of yours. What better than to just…fuck it right out of you?

(NO) STRINGS ATTACHED — LEE HYUNJAE (12/19)

Becoming friends with Lee Hyunjae after his valiant attempt to save your life (stopping you from drunk driving) was certainly not on your year’s bingo card. Also not on your bingo card? Waking up in his bed every other night following, but it’s not like you’re really complaining.

NO BITCHES? — ERIC SOHN (12/22)

When you met Eric, you’d thought he was just another frat boy, looking to get into any woman’s pants (particularly yours at that moment). You never would’ve thought that he was just a loser who really liked FNAF and just thought you were pretty.

PARTY O’CLOCK — CHOI CHANHEE (12/22)

In spite of being a frat boy himself, Chanhee could never actually see himself enjoying the luxuries of the title. Besides, how could he with all the responsibilities of being treasurer? Enter you and your carefree spirit and Chanhee’s got a real big problem on his hands.

PRINCESS AND THE PAUPER — KEVIN MOON (PT. 1 1/1, PT. 2 1/3)

It wasn’t like you and Kevin hated each other. In fact, you quite admired him despite his somewhat indifferent attitude toward you. Well, now that you’re paired up for the last dance of the year, you guess it’s the perfect time to find out why.

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hyuk4sbf · 2 years ago

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ok thoughts on tbz and choking

hehehehehhehe giggling n kicking my feet rn

only picking a few dif members so i dont go overboard

thinking abt how pretty chanhee’s hands are n how those dainty fingers would look gripped around ur throat, how mean :((

sangyeon’s thick fingers gently caressing down the sides of your throat before he’ll start to press, watching ur eyes go glassy as every thought leaves ur head and u go all dumb on him

ur hands around younghoon’s throat _(:3 」∠)_ him panting with his mouth open, drooly lil pup so lightheaded and it makes him feel so warm bc he knows he’s safe with u and u’ll always take such good care of him hmmm :(

juyeon’s big palm around ur throat even though he’s shaking and he can’t quite press right cuz he’s just a little pillow prince he doesn’t know how and what if he hurts u? </3 show him how its done n get him to try it again ;3

jacob who chokes and gags u on his thick fingers, practically shoving them down ur throat when u piss him off to a point of no return and he’s just had enough, shut the fuck up and take it like u would his cock <3

#tbz smut #tbz thoughts #the boyz smut #the boyz hard thoughts #juyeon thoughts #chanhee thoughts #younghoon thoughts #sangyeon thoughts #jacob thoughts

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kpopscruggles · 6 months ago

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tell me why i wanna blow someone and tell me why it must MR. LEE FUCKING SANGYEON?! 😭 hngh i need him

- it's your 📔 anon and i'm back from touching a whole ass forest. apparently that didnt work because im asking this to you rn HAHAHA

Nrbejwndbf it didn’t but it’s okay cause that’s what I’m here for pookie!!!

When I say snagyeon will fill your throat to the FUCKING BRIM !! He’s also the type to hold your head so his cock stayed in your throat as he cums!!!

#tbz smut #tbz hard hours #tbz hard thoughts #sangyeon hard thoughts #sangyeon hard hours #sangyeon smut #📔 anon

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planetdream · 1 year ago

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ooh do you have any thoughts about sangyeon (the boyz)? 🤭

pleasure dom sangyeon. everything revolves around you and your pleasure. although i do absolutely marvel at the thought of the sangyeon who fucks roughly [and if that’s what you need, then he’ll deliver], he’s such a love maker—wining and dining you, leading you to a bed covered in rose petals with vanilla scented candles lit, eating you out and fucking you in missionary to watch how your face contorts while you moan is name, asking him to give you more. of course, when you ask for more, there’s no other option than for him to grant that wish [plus he’s still achingly hard]. the sweet sweet aftercare, how he runs u a lavender bath, moisturizing you after, small kisses against your forehead ,,, ooouuu now i’m thinking about husband sangyeon wtf 😖

#[💌] ˚｡⋆#✰˚. !! dream.hardhours #☁️ — daydreams.tbz #sangyeon hard thoughts #had 2 stop before i got in my feels #needless to say i have many many thoughts of sangyeon

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daisyvisions · 1 year ago

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✦ Day 29 - Dumbification

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. Pairing: Bully!Sangyeon x afab!reader

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. Word Count: 2.3K

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. Warnings: Smut (18+, minors DNI), dumbification, bully!Sangyeon, hard!dom, rough sex, face slapping, spitting, hair pulling, spanking, slight degradation, mean!Sangyeon, possessive sex (if you squint), unprotected sex, biting, big dick Sangyeon has arrived!, manhandling, some acts are “forced” but consented, names used (sweetheart, baby, good girl, whore)

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. A/N: Belated happy birthday gift to myself! This is me self-indulging because… why not? 🤪 definitely considering on continuing this story through small blurbs / scenarios in the future. Proofread once, horny as ever 🥴

‧⋆ ✧˚₊‧⋆. Network: @deoboyznet

✦ Kinktober Masterlist ✦

Lee Sangyeon, student body president of your college. A model student and friendly to all. Everyone loves him, adores him, wants to be him - except you.

You hated his guts, mainly because for no reason he would always try to get on your nerves. He would tug on your ponytail, always correct you in class, embarrass you in front of guys who’d try to ask you out, and even subtly flip your skirt with his pen and comment on how short it is, saying how you either wore it for him or you’re just seeking attention like you usually do.

And you hated the way he’d smirk at you when you’d try to tell him off or get angry with him. It made you want to strangle him even more.

What made it even worse was when news about the vice president stepping down was going around. According to student body law, the president could choose whoever he wanted to become his right-wing. And out of all the people he could've chosen… it just had to be you.

You thought he’d go easy on you as soon as you started, that maybe he would treat you like a fellow peer even just a little bit. Maybe you could finally see the side of Sangyeon everyone seemed to adore.

But it only started going downhill from here.

Sangyeon treated you like you were his secretary (hell, even the actual student body secretary was treated better). He would constantly order you around, shut down your ideas, make you fetch his coffee in the morning (otherwise you’d “get a detention slip”), tell you to write all the notes during council meetings, and even be the one to inform his professors that he would be missing class during emergency meetings or varsity trainings.

You hate him so much to the point you would cry with the way he treated you like you were his beck and call. You wanted to to hit him where it hurt the most, put him in his place and realize how much of an ass he really is.

All your anger and frustration towards him was all you could ever think of, so much so that his face appeared in your dream one night, a dream that you would consider to be the most pornographic dream you’ve ever had.

Images of Sangyeon taking you from behind, pulling your hair and calling you his whore… You swear you could never look at him the same way again without feeling incredibly needy. You were embarrassed at yourself. Allowing your subconscious to think about him that way.

You hated him! …Right?

And ever since that dream, you started to become quiet around him. You would answer back less, avoid his gaze, you don't even look irritated when he would call out your name. You even stopped complaining about all the things he’d make you do.

And this new behavior of yours was starting to annoy him.

Where was the old you that would tell him to fuck off? The one whose face would turn red when he really pissed you off? Or the way you’d mumble something under your breath and when he’d asked you’d say “nothing.” The bratty behavior that would get under his skin and make him feel some kind of tingle in his veins.

Was there someone else grabbing your attention? Sangyeon wonders.

Maybe, he has seen you a couple of times with that tall guy. What was his name again? Younghoon? Or was it Hyunjae? In any case, the thought of someone else taking your attention away from him irked him deeply.

There was a reason why he picked you to be his vice president. There was something about you that was incredibly addicting, especially with the way you would react to his touch, his words, and whenever he would get close.

Or how adorable you would get when you were frustrated with him. And every time you'd knit your eyebrows together and huff, all he wanted to do was kiss your little bratty face.

He needed you to get mad at him again. He needed you to put all your focus on him and no one else.

Because in his mind, you belonged to no one else except him.

“C’mon sweetheart, just tell me why you’ve been avoiding me.” He asks for the nth time as he corners you alone in the student council room.

“For the last time Sangyeon, I told you to drop it!” You huff in annoyance. You don't understand why he couldn’t just leave you alone, but at the same time the scent of his musky cologne was starting to intoxicate you. Flashes of your dream about him playing in your mind as you try to not let the blush creep onto your cheeks.

“I bet it’s because of Younghoon huh? What? Getting tired of me now? Looking for other people to give you more attention?”

“Wha- No! Are you fucking serious right now?” You couldn’t believe him.

“Seriously, how much more attention do you need in a day? You’re lucky I even find the time in my busy day to give you that.”

“I never asked for your attention Sangyeon! Why can’t you understand that?” You shout as you feel your body warming up from all the anger boiling inside you.

“Just admit it then! You just want someone to fuck you like the attention whore that you are-”

A loud slap echoes throughout the room. Tension building in the air as soon as the room fell silent. Sangyeon slowly turns his head back at you and as soon as you meet his gaze, you feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins.

You’re scared and excited at the same time, finally being able to hit his face after months of built up frustration but at the same time scared for your life with the darkness seeping through his eyes.

“Sangyeon.. I’m- I’m sorry.” You whisper.

“Do that again…”

“What?” Your eyebrows knit in confusion.

“I said… Do that again.” He demands.

For a split second you’re hesitant but then you remembered all the times he’s tormented you and treated you like dirt. You quickly slap his other cheek, the sound echoing louder than the first one.

The look in Sangyeon’s eyes in that moment was so primal. The way his dark orbs were staring you down in a way you’ve never seen before. The thrill and fear of the moment causing you to clench your thighs together.

He suddenly grabs you by your waist, harshly pulling you towards him as he smashes his lips against yours and gives you a deep passionate kiss.

Out of impulse, your hands push against his strong chest, trying to free yourself from his grip. But Sangyeon wraps his arms around your waist and pulls you in harder, trapping you in his embrace as he forcefully kisses you this time.

You whimper into the kiss, easily melting into his touch as you wrap your arms around his neck as you pull him even closer. Your kisses start out messy, teeth clashing against each other until you find a good rhythm.

“Mmm you taste so good.” Sangyeon mumbles against your mouth, savoring the feeling of your lips against his.

He’s suddenly caught off guard as you walk him backwards, the back of his knees hitting a chair as you forcefully push him down to sit and straddle his lap. Slipping your tongue in his mouth as you start to grind yourself onto his crotch.

“Shit, are you enjoying this?” He smirks at you but instead you roll your eyes and continue to kiss him, gripping his collar as if you’re attempting to strangle him.

“You still haven’t told me why you’ve been avoiding me by the way.” He tries to talk as you continue to kiss him.

“Just drop it already Sangyeon-” You snap at him, focusing on satisfying the ache between your thighs as you roll your hips. But Sangyeon grips your waist hard to stop your movements, making you whine.

“Tsk tsk tsk, can’t let you get what you want without answering me sweetheart. So tell me, why have you been avoiding me?”

“YOU! It’s because of you!” You shout as you tug on his collar.

“I had a dream where you fucked me. There! Is that what you wanted to hear?” Your chest heaving from the frustration.

“Yeah? You dreamt about me baby?” Sangyeon slowly smirks at you.

“Don’t call me that-”

“Why? does it get you all… hot and bothered?”

“Just shut the fuck up- ah!” Sangyeon sends a hard slap against your ass, making you yelp from the sudden sting.

“You don’t get to tell me what to do…” He says. His deep and stern voice enough to send electric jolts to your core.

“From this point on you’re gonna listen to me, got that?” You nod your head immediately. But Sangyeon grips your face harshly, making your jaw slack open. He spits into your mouth, making your eyes grow wide and moan from the vulgar act.

“Answer me.” His jaw clenches. “Or has humping me like a bitch in heat made you brain dead already?”

You shake your head, “I’ll listen to you, promise-”

“Good girl.” The corner of his lip slightly tugging upwards.

Sangyeon adjusts the both of you as he unbuckles his jeans and pulls out his monster cock from his boxers. You stare at his length for a moment, suddenly wanting to back out of the situation. You weren’t actually gonna fuck him. Maybe suck him off yeah but not this…

“Ride me.” He commands you.

“I- I can’t….” You stutter.

“Aw, shy all of a sudden? What’s the matter sweetheart?” He lifts your chin up to get a better look at your face.

“I-I cant, s’too big-” The fear in your voice turning him on just a little bit.

Sangyeon leans forward to kiss you delicately this time, contrasting his animalistic behavior moments ago.

“Shh, I’ll guide you yeah? Just relax.” He kisses you once again before lifting your hips up and hooking your panties to the side.

You slowly move your hips down, feeling the head of his cock slowly enter you. You start to panic as you can already feel him stretching you out like you’ve never been stretched before. Sangyeon starts to grow impatient at your pace and instead pushes your hips all the way down til his entire length is completely inside you.

“Sangyeon!” You yelp at the burning stretch of his size, immediately burying your face onto the junction between his neck and shoulder and dig your teeth into his skin. Sangyeon winces but moans at the bite, knowing it will definitely leave a mark on his shoulder later.

He kisses the side of your head as he rubs your back trying to soothe you as your walls adjust to him.

“Just sit here and moan out my name yeah? You can take it…” He whispers in your ear as his hands go under your skirt, holding your ass as he guides you to slowly bounce on his cock.

The slow repeated drag of his length from the head all the way to the base has your head spinning. You can feel him everywhere.

“Baby, you’re so wet-” He grunts as he grips your ass, fucking himself deep into your cunt like his fleshlight at home.

“We’re gonna have to add this to your list of responsibilities now don’t we?” He lightly chuckles.

“’Review meeting notes with Sangyeon’ or ‘Discuss to-do list with Sangyeon’ or maybe even-”

“Sshutt uuppp-” you mutter as you continue to place your focus on satisfying your own pleasure. But you’re soon caught off guard as Sangyeon suddenly pulls your hair from behind, making you moan from the pain.

“Behave…” He gives you a warning before attacking your neck with kisses. Your pussy tightens around his cock the more aggressive he becomes. Even Sangyeon notices your reaction.

“Shit, did that turn you on? You like it when I’m mean to you sweetheart?” He asks but your cunt clenches around him once again, giving Sangyeon the answer he needed.

“Getting fucked stupid you can’t even speak to me-” he grunts as he thrusts up into your walls. You mumble out incoherent words in response, words fading in your mind as all you can think about is his cock moulding its shape into you.

He grabs the back of your knees and stands up, still connected to you as he plops you down on his desk and starts to pound you relentlessly.

The sound of the table creaking, your wanton moans, Sangyeon groaning as he watches you cream on his length, it all fades into the distance as you feel all your senses become numb.

You don’t even have the words to tell him you’re reaching your orgasm. You just moan out his name in a slur and your body convulses. Legs twitching and arms shaking from holding yourself up on the desk.

You’re suddenly brought back to reality when you feel Sangyeon slap your face. Wincing at the sting on your cheek but whining as he stops thrusting himself into you.

“Did I fucking say you can cum on my cock?” He looks at you with angry eyes.

“M-s-sorryyy” you whine. But you moan once again as you feel his hand instantly grip your throat, the pads of his fingers digging into your skin.

"Too late now," Sangyeon hissed, his grip on your neck tightening,

"I'm gonna make you cum over and over until the only word you know is my name."

#deoboyznet #lee sangyeon #sangyeon #sangyeon smut #sangyeon scenarios #sangyeon fic #sangyeon x reader #tbz smut #the boyz smut #the boyz hard hours #tbz scenarios #the boyz fic #the boyz fanfic #tbz drabbles #kpop smut #tbz hard hours #the boyz scenarios

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jinnieboosworld · 1 month ago

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My Uncle Thinks You’re Pretty

Sangyeon x Fem! Reader

Genre: Fluff, slice of life, romance

Summary: Y/n a kindergarten teacher tries hard to make sure all of her students can come to her class and have a safe place where they can both learn and have fun. So when one of her students win a prize due to his good grades she decides to talk to his extremely handsome “father” after class to commend him.

Word Count: 14.2k

╭┈ • ┈ ୨୧ ┈ • ┈╮

Y/N had always believed in the magic of teaching. For her, the classroom was more than just a place to impart knowledge—it was a sanctuary, a home away from home for her young students. She loved the way their faces lit up when they learned something new, or the way their laughter filled the room during playtime. Her classroom, decorated with bright colors, cheerful artwork, and little DIY projects, was a reflection of the joy she hoped to cultivate.

It was the start of the new school year, and as always, she felt a mix of excitement and nervousness. The buzz of tiny voices filled the hallway as children and parents gathered, ready to begin another year. Y/N stood by the door of her classroom, greeting each child with a smile, learning their names, and watching their eyes widen with curiosity as they peeked into the room that would become their second home for the next year.

“Welcome, Jisoo!” Y/N said warmly, crouching down to meet the eyes of a small boy with neatly combed hair and a shy smile. He clung to the hand of a tall man standing behind him. Y/N’s gaze flickered up briefly, noticing the man’s kind, though somewhat tired, expression. He was well-dressed but not overly formal, wearing a button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows and dark jeans.

Jisoo looked up at the man, then back at Y/N, before loosening his grip just enough to offer a tiny wave. “Hi,” he mumbled, barely audible, his wide eyes scanning the classroom.

“Hi, Jisoo,” Y/N replied softly, her voice gentle and reassuring. “You’re going to have so much fun here! Look, we have all sorts of books, games, and even a little reading nook with pillows. You can choose whichever spot makes you feel comfy.”

Jisoo seemed hesitant, still holding onto the man’s leg. The man—whom Y/N assumed was his father—gave a small chuckle. “He’s a little shy at first, but once he warms up, you won’t be able to stop him from talking.” His voice was smooth and held a hint of amusement.

Y/N smiled up at him, nodding. “That’s completely okay. We’ll give him all the time he needs to settle in.” She stood up, extending her hand toward the man. “I’m Ms. Y/N, by the way. It’s great to meet you both.”

The man shook her hand, his grip firm but not overpowering. “Sangyeon. Sangyeon Lee. Thanks for looking after him.” His smile was warm but brief, as though he wasn’t used to lingering in social pleasantries.

Y/N’s gaze lingered on him for a second longer, something about his presence catching her attention in a way that most parents didn’t. There was a quiet confidence about him, a calmness that made her feel oddly at ease. She quickly turned her attention back to Jisoo, giving the boy another encouraging smile before ushering him inside.

As the day went on, Y/N kept a careful eye on Jisoo, noticing how he sat quietly at his table, occasionally glancing around at the other children. He wasn’t withdrawn, just observant—like he was carefully taking in his new environment before deciding how to interact with it. She admired that about him, the way he seemed to approach everything with quiet thoughtfulness.

When it was time for the children to be picked up, parents slowly began arriving, chatting with each other while waiting outside the classroom. Y/N spotted Sangyeon in the hallway, leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, scanning the classroom for Jisoo. His presence stood out, not just because of his height or anything but because of the way he seemed so focused, like the world outside that classroom was a distant background noise.

“Hey, Jisoo,” Y/N called gently. “Your dad’s here.”

Jisoo perked up and hurried to pack his things, making his way to the door. Y/N, standing near the entrance, glanced at Sangyeon as he stepped forward to meet Jisoo. She couldn’t help but notice the tiredness in his eyes again, but it wasn’t the kind of exhaustion from lack of sleep. It felt deeper, as though it had been there for a while, tucked away behind the warmth he showed to Jisoo. Y/N’s curiosity about him piqued, but she quickly reminded herself to keep things professional. Her job was to teach and care for her students, not to pry into their personal lives.

“Did you have a good day, buddy?” Sangyeon asked, kneeling to Jisoo’s level as the boy approached him with his backpack slung over one shoulder.

Jisoo nodded, a tiny smile creeping across his face as he handed Sangyeon a drawing he had made earlier in the day. It was a simple sketch of a house with a tree next to it, the kind of picture all children made, but Sangyeon looked at it as though it was a masterpiece.

“Wow, this is amazing!” Sangyeon praised, his voice full of enthusiasm. “You’re already better at drawing than I am.”

Y/N couldn’t help but smile at their interaction. It was heartwarming to see a parent—well, who she assumed was a parent—so invested in their child’s day, even if it was something as small as a crayon drawing. She found herself lingering by the doorway, watching the two of them for a moment longer than she should have.

Sangyeon caught her gaze and stood up, tucking the drawing into his jacket pocket. “Thanks again for today, Ms. Y/N,” he said, his voice sincere. “I know Jisoo’s still getting used to things, but I think he’s going to like it here.”

“Oh, it’s my pleasure,” Y/N replied, brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. “He’s a great kid. Very thoughtful. I’m looking forward to seeing him open up more as the days go on.”

Sangyeon gave her a small nod, his eyes lingering on hers for a brief second longer than usual. Y/N felt a tiny flutter in her chest but quickly pushed it aside. It was nothing. Just a polite exchange between a teacher and a parent.

“See you tomorrow, Jisoo!” Y/N waved as the boy shuffled out the door, still clinging to Sangyeon’s hand. Jisoo waved back timidly, and then they were gone, blending into the stream of parents and children in the hallway.

Y/N exhaled, leaning against the doorway as the classroom slowly emptied. It’s going to be a good year, she thought to herself, feeling a sense of satisfaction settle in. She loved the start of the school year, the promise of new beginnings, and the chance to watch her students grow. And yet, as she packed up her things and tidied the room, she couldn’t shake the brief but lingering thought of Sangyeon.

The next few weeks in Y/N’s classroom were filled with the usual hustle and bustle of kindergarten life. Y/N poured her heart into creating a supportive environment for her students, from crafting intricate lesson plans to designing engaging activities that would spark their curiosity. Jisoo settled into the routine with a quiet, steady presence, and Y/N was pleased to see him gradually becoming more comfortable and engaged in class.

Sangyeon continued to drop Jisoo off each morning and pick him up in the afternoon. Their interactions remained polite but brief, and Y/N found herself observing him with a mix of curiosity and respect. He was a constant presence, always attentive to Jisoo’s needs and consistently punctual. But despite his reliability, there was a distance between him and the other parents. He was friendly but kept to himself, never engaging in the casual conversations that often filled the waiting area.

One afternoon, as Y/N was organizing the art supplies, she overheard snippets of conversation from the other teachers in the staff room. They were discussing their students, their families, and the occasional anecdote about the quirks of the parents. Y/N listened in, her attention partially focused on the conversation and partially on her task.

“Have you noticed Sangyeon Lee?” one of the teachers, Ms. Parker, said. “He’s always so reserved. It’s a bit unusual for a parent.”

“I’ve seen that too,” Ms. Chang agreed, flipping through a stack of papers. “He’s definitely different from the other parents. Seems like a nice guy, though.”

Y/N’s ears perked up. “Oh, what do you mean by ‘different’?”

Ms. Parker shrugged. “Just that he doesn’t engage much with the other parents. Most of them chat while waiting, but he seems to prefer keeping to himself. It’s like he’s always in his own world.”

“Maybe he’s just shy or busy,” Y/N suggested, trying to offer a more positive perspective. “He’s been really polite and supportive of Jisoo. That counts for a lot.”

“True,” Ms. Chang conceded. “He’s definitely good to Jisoo. But it’s still curious. Sometimes it’s nice to get to know the parents a bit better. Makes communication easier.”

Y/N nodded, understanding the sentiment. Building a rapport with parents often made it easier to address any concerns or share updates about their child’s progress. But she also recognized that everyone had their own way of managing their personal lives. If Sangyeon preferred to keep a lower profile, that was his choice, and Y/N respected that.

The weeks passed, and Y/N found herself growing accustomed to the rhythm of the school year. The children’s laughter, the clatter of blocks, and the murmur of reading time became the backdrop of her daily life. Jisoo continued to thrive, showing gradual improvement in his social interactions and classroom activities. His drawings and stories, while simple, often reflected a rich imagination and a thoughtful nature.

One day, as the end of the day approached and parents began arriving to pick up their children, Y/N noticed Sangyeon standing near the door, waiting for Jisoo. He had a slight frown on his face, his attention focused on something in the hallway. Y/N, who was tidying up the classroom, decided to approach him.

“Hi, Mr. Lee,” she greeted, offering a friendly smile. “How was your day?”

Sangyeon looked up, momentarily surprised. “Oh, Ms. Y/N. It’s been alright. Just a bit hectic at work. But I’m glad to pick up Jisoo and see how his day went.”

“I hope it’s not too overwhelming,” Y/N said sympathetically. “If there’s ever anything we can do to make things easier, just let us know.”

Sangyeon’s gaze softened slightly. “Thank you. I appreciate that.”

Just then, Jisoo bounded into the room, his face flushed with excitement. “Ms. Y/N, look! I made a rocket ship!”

Y/N admired the crayon drawing Jisoo proudly presented. “Wow, that’s fantastic, Jisoo! I love how colorful it is.”

Sangyeon crouched down beside Jisoo, his expression brightening. “That’s a great rocket ship, buddy. Did you learn about space today?”

Jisoo nodded enthusiastically. “Yes! We talked about the stars and the moon. Ms. Y/N said we might even make a space collage next week.”

“Sounds like a lot of fun,” Sangyeon said, ruffling Jisoo’s hair gently. “I’m looking forward to hearing all about it.”

As they talked, Y/N couldn’t help but notice the small, affectionate gestures Sangyeon made toward Jisoo. It was clear that he cared deeply for him, and it was touching to see the bond they shared. Y/N also observed how Sangyeon, despite his usual reserve, seemed to open up slightly when interacting with Jisoo.

As the days turned into weeks, Y/N continued to see Sangyeon in the same pattern: brief, polite interactions that never ventured beyond the surface. She found herself wondering about him more frequently, intrigued by the subtle hints of his personality she’d glimpsed during their conversations. The distance he maintained was respectful, but it left her with an impression of him as a solitary figure, someone who navigated life with a sense of quiet dignity.

One chilly autumn afternoon, Y/N decided to take the children outside for a bit of fresh air and a nature walk around the school’s playground. The crisp air and vibrant fall colors created a perfect backdrop for exploration. As the children gathered around, eagerly examining fallen leaves and acorns, Y/N glanced up to see Sangyeon arriving to pick up Jisoo.

Sangyeon approached with his usual calm demeanor, his eyes scanning the playground before landing on Jisoo. He waved to Y/N as he walked over, a small, polite smile on his face.

“Hi, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said, his voice carrying a hint of warmth. “It looks like a beautiful day for a walk.”

“It really is,” Y/N agreed. “The children are having a blast exploring the fall scenery. Jisoo’s been very engaged in finding different types of leaves.”

Sangyeon nodded, his gaze shifting to Jisoo, who was eagerly showing off a particularly large leaf he had found. “He’s always had a keen interest in nature. I remember him getting excited about bugs and plants when he was younger.”

“That’s wonderful,” Y/N said, smiling. “It’s great to see his curiosity about the world around him.”

Sangyeon’s eyes met Y/N’s, and for a moment, there was a fleeting connection—a brief understanding that went beyond words. Y/N could see that Sangyeon’s life was intricately tied to Jisoo’s well-being, and it was clear that he was a significant figure in the boy’s life.

As the bell rang, signaling the end of their outdoor playtime, Y/N gathered the children and began ushering them back inside. Sangyeon and Jisoo prepared to leave, and as they walked toward the exit, Sangyeon glanced back at Y/N with a thoughtful expression.

“Thank you for today, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said. “I appreciate the extra effort you put into making things special for the kids.”

“It’s my pleasure,” Y/N replied. “They bring so much joy to the classroom. It’s easy to go the extra mile for them.”

As Sangyeon and Jisoo left, Y/N watched them go, her thoughts lingering on the man who was so devoted to his child. She couldn’t help but wonder about his life outside of these brief interactions—about what made him tick, what his days were like, and how he managed to balance everything with such quiet grace.

It was a slow burn, this growing curiosity about Sangyeon. There were no grand gestures or dramatic revelations yet, just small moments of connection that hinted at a deeper story. Y/N understood that getting to know someone took time, and she was prepared to be patient.

As she finished tidying up the classroom and prepared to leave for the day, Y/N couldn’t shake the feeling that her interactions with Sangyeon were just the beginning. The slow, deliberate pace of their connection was a reflection of the care and consideration that defined both of their lives. And though they hadn’t yet ventured beyond the surface, Y/N had a sense that there was more to discover—a journey that would unfold in its own time.

The school year continued to flow smoothly, with each day bringing its own set of routines, joys, and small surprises. Y/N’s classroom was a place of constant activity, from the bustling of the children during free play to the focused quiet of storytime. Despite the predictable rhythm, Y/N found herself increasingly intrigued by Sangyeon Lee, whose presence seemed to linger just beyond the edges of her everyday life.

Sangyeon’s routine was consistent: he would drop Jisoo off in the morning, briefly exchange pleasantries with Y/N, and then pick him up in the afternoon, often with a small, meaningful conversation about Jisoo’s day. His interactions with the other parents were minimal, and while Y/N respected his preference for privacy, she couldn’t help but wonder about the man behind the reserved exterior.

One chilly November morning, the school was preparing for its annual fall festival—a much-anticipated event filled with games, crafts, and a small fair. Y/N and her colleagues were bustling with preparations, decorating the hallways with autumn leaves and setting up tables for various activities. The children were excited, chattering about the upcoming festival, and Y/N was in the midst of coordinating the event details.

As the festival day approached, Y/N noticed that the parents were more involved than usual, volunteering their time and resources to help make the event a success. Sangyeon, as always, arrived promptly to drop off Jisoo. Y/N observed him from a distance, noting the slight weariness in his eyes but also the genuine smile he offered Jisoo.

“Good morning, Mr. Lee,” Y/N said as she greeted him by the classroom door. “I hope you’re doing well. We’re getting ready for the festival, and the kids are really excited.”

Sangyeon’s gaze softened as he looked at Y/N. “Good morning, Ms. Y/N. I’m sure it will be a great event. Jisoo’s been talking about it non-stop.”

“He’s one of the most enthusiastic little helpers we’ve got,” Y/N said with a laugh. “He’s been looking forward to the crafts and games all week.”

Sangyeon smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “I’m glad to hear that. He’s always been so eager to participate in anything creative.”

As Jisoo bounced into the classroom, ready for the day, Y/N noticed that Sangyeon seemed a little more relaxed than usual. His smile lingered as he watched Jisoo join his friends, his gaze shifting back to Y/N.

“If you need any extra hands for the festival setup,” Sangyeon offered, “I’d be happy to help out. I know you’ve got a lot on your plate.”

Y/N was pleasantly surprised by the offer. “That would be wonderful, Mr. Lee. We could definitely use an extra set of hands. If you’re free this afternoon, we’d love to have you join us.”

“I’ll be there,” Sangyeon said with a nod. “Just let me know what needs to be done.”

The festival day arrived with a crisp, clear sky and a slight chill in the air. The school grounds were transformed into a vibrant celebration of fall, with colorful decorations, festive music, and the scent of baked goods wafting through the air. Parents and children filled the space, their laughter and chatter creating a lively atmosphere.

Y/N and her colleagues were busy at various activity stations, helping the children with crafts, games, and treats. Amid the chaos, Y/N caught sight of Sangyeon arriving, his presence adding a touch of calm to the bustling scene. He wore a casual, cozy sweater and jeans, looking relaxed and approachable.

Sangyeon approached Y/N, his hands tucked into the pockets of his sweater. “I’m here as promised. What can I do to help?”

Y/N smiled, grateful for his assistance. “Great to see you, Mr. Lee. We could use some help with setting up the craft station and supervising the games. If you’d like, you can start with the craft tables. They’re in need of a little organization.”

“Sounds good,” Sangyeon replied, rolling up his sleeves. “I’ll get right on it.”

As Sangyeon worked, Y/N couldn’t help but notice the way he moved with a sense of purpose and calm. He quickly adapted to the tasks, organizing supplies and assisting the children with their crafts. His interactions with the kids were gentle and encouraging, and Y/N observed that he had a natural ability to connect with them.

Throughout the afternoon, Y/N and Sangyeon exchanged occasional glances and brief conversations as they worked side by side. There was a comfortable rhythm to their interactions, a shared sense of purpose in making the festival a success. Y/N appreciated Sangyeon’s willingness to help and the ease with which he integrated into the event.

At one point, as Y/N was setting up a game booth, she noticed Sangyeon helping Jisoo with a craft project. The sight of them working together, Jisoo’s face lit up with concentration and Sangyeon’s gentle guidance, brought a smile to Y/N’s face.

Sangyeon caught her watching and gave her a small, knowing smile. “I think Jisoo’s found his new favorite activity,” he said with a chuckle.

“It looks like he’s having a great time,” Y/N replied. “Thanks again for helping out. It’s made a big difference.”

“Glad to be of assistance,” Sangyeon said. “It’s nice to see everyone having fun.”

As the festival drew to a close, Y/N and Sangyeon helped clean up, packing away supplies and dismantling the various activity stations. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the school grounds. The festival had been a success, and Y/N felt a deep sense of satisfaction as she surveyed the results of their hard work.

Sangyeon, carrying a box of leftover supplies, walked alongside Y/N as they headed toward the staff room. “I hope you had a good time,” he said, his tone light and casual. “I know these events can be a lot of work.”

“I did,” Y/N said with a smile. “It was a lot of fun, and I’m grateful for your help. It made everything run a lot smoother.”

Sangyeon nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I’m glad to hear that. I enjoyed being a part of it. Jisoo had a blast, and that’s what matters most.”

As they reached the staff room, Y/N stopped and turned to Sangyeon. “Thank you again for your support. It means a lot to us.”

Sangyeon smiled warmly. “Anytime. It’s the least I can do.”

Y/N watched as Sangyeon headed toward the exit, Jisoo at his side. There was a sense of quiet contentment in the way he interacted with Jisoo, a subtle but profound bond that spoke volumes about his character. Y/N found herself reflecting on the small moments of connection she had experienced with Sangyeon and wondered about the story behind his reserved demeanor.

In the following days, Y/N continued to observe Sangyeon from a distance, noting the little things that revealed his dedication and care. He was always punctual, always polite, and always attentive to Jisoo’s needs. His interactions with the other parents remained minimal, but Y/N sensed a quiet strength in him, a depth that went beyond surface appearances.

The slow burn of their connection continued to unfold, marked by brief exchanges and fleeting moments of understanding. Y/N remained patient, respecting Sangyeon’s boundaries while quietly hoping for opportunities to get to know him better.

As the weeks went by, Y/N’s curiosity about Sangyeon remained, but she also understood that building a connection took time. The unspoken bond between them grew slowly, grounded in mutual respect and shared experiences. For now, Y/N was content with the steady rhythm of their interactions, knowing that each moment was a step toward a deeper understanding.

The winter season arrived gently, bringing with it a crisp chill and the promise of holiday cheer. The school had decorated its halls with festive ornaments and twinkling lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for the children and their families. Y/N was busy preparing for the end-of-year celebrations and organizing the annual awards ceremony, a highlight for the students who had shown outstanding progress and achievements throughout the year.

The awards ceremony was an eagerly anticipated event, and Y/N was excited to see the children’s faces light up as they received recognition for their hard work. Jisoo, as always, had been enthusiastic about the event, often talking about it with his friends and showing off his progress in class.

In the weeks leading up to the ceremony, Y/N had noticed Jisoo’s increasing dedication to his studies. He had been particularly focused, his efforts reflecting in his improved grades and enthusiastic participation in class activities. It was no surprise to her when Jisoo’s name appeared on the list of award recipients.

The day of the ceremony arrived, and the school gymnasium was transformed into a festive space, with colorful decorations and a stage set up for the awards presentation. Parents, teachers, and students filled the seats, eagerly awaiting the start of the event. Y/N was stationed at the front, ready to give a short speech and present the awards.

As the ceremony began, Y/N stood at the podium, her eyes scanning the audience. The excitement in the room was palpable, and Y/N felt a sense of pride as she saw the students’ anticipation. The awards were handed out one by one, with each child receiving applause and congratulations for their accomplishments.

When it was Jisoo’s turn, Y/N’s heart swelled with pride. She called Jisoo’s name, and he bounded up to the stage with his usual enthusiasm, his eyes shining with excitement. Y/N presented him with his award, a certificate recognizing his exceptional progress and dedication. As she handed him the certificate, she couldn’t help but notice how proud Sangyeon looked from his seat in the audience, his smile evident even from a distance.

After the ceremony, Y/N made her way through the crowd, seeking out Jisoo and his “father” to offer her congratulations. She spotted Sangyeon standing with Jisoo near the refreshments table, his demeanor relaxed as he chatted with other parents. Y/N approached them with a warm smile.

“Mr. Lee,” Y/N greeted him, her tone filled with genuine enthusiasm. “Congratulations on Jisoo’s award. He’s worked so hard, and it’s wonderful to see his efforts recognized.”

Sangyeon turned to her, his smile widening. “Thank you, Ms. Y/N. Jisoo’s been so excited about today. He’s really been putting in a lot of effort.”

“It shows,” Y/N said, her gaze shifting to Jisoo, who was beaming with pride as he clutched his award. “He’s done an amazing job.”

Jisoo looked up at Y/N with wide, admiring eyes. “Thank you, Ms. Y/N! I couldn’t have done it without you.”

Y/N’s heart melted at the sight of Jisoo’s enthusiasm. “You did all the hard work, Jisoo. I’m just glad I could help.”

As they chatted, Y/N couldn’t help but notice how Sangyeon’s eyes softened when he looked at Jisoo. There was a deep, genuine affection in his gaze, a reflection of the bond they shared. Y/N admired the way Sangyeon supported Jisoo, his quiet presence a comforting reassurance for the young boy.

“I wanted to thank you for everything you do for Jisoo,” Sangyeon said, his tone sincere. “He really enjoys being in your class. It’s made a big difference for him.”

Y/N felt a flush of pleasure at his words. “That means a lot to me, Mr. Lee. I enjoy having Jisoo in class. He’s a wonderful student.”

As they continued to talk, Y/N felt a growing sense of connection with Sangyeon. Their interactions had always been pleasant, but there was something different about the way he spoke to her today. It was as if the barriers between them were starting to crumble, allowing for a more genuine and open conversation.

The evening wore on, and the awards ceremony concluded with a festive gathering in the school’s cafeteria. Parents and children mingled, enjoying the refreshments and celebrating the accomplishments of the students. Y/N found herself engaged in conversations with various parents, but her thoughts kept drifting back to Sangyeon and Jisoo.

At one point, Y/N found herself near Sangyeon again, who was helping Jisoo with a plate of cookies. She decided to join them, hoping to continue their conversation from earlier.

“Jisoo looks very pleased with his award,” Y/N said as she approached.

“He is,” Sangyeon agreed, his gaze fond as he watched Jisoo eagerly nibbling on a cookie. “He’s been talking about this event for weeks.”

“It’s wonderful to see him so excited,” Y/N said. “You must be very proud.”

Sangyeon chuckled. “I am. He’s put in a lot of hard work, and it’s nice to see it paying off.”

As they continued to chat, Y/N found herself feeling increasingly comfortable around Sangyeon. His demeanor was warm and engaging, and their conversation flowed easily. She learned more about Jisoo’s interests and hobbies, and Sangyeon shared a few anecdotes about his nephew’s achievements and challenges.

Their conversation was interrupted by Jisoo, who tugged at Sangyeon’s sleeve, eager to show him a drawing he had made during the ceremony. Sangyeon crouched down to admire the drawing, his eyes lighting up with genuine admiration.

“That’s a fantastic drawing, Jisoo,” Sangyeon said, his voice filled with pride. “You’ve really captured the spirit of the festival.”

Jisoo beamed, clearly pleased by the compliment. “Thank you, Uncle Sangyeon!”

Y/N watched the exchange with a sense of warmth, appreciating the strong bond between Sangyeon and Jisoo. It was clear that Sangyeon was deeply involved in Jisoo’s life, and Y/N admired his dedication and care.

As the evening came to a close, Y/N prepared to say her goodbyes. She felt a sense of contentment from the successful event and the pleasant interactions she had shared with Sangyeon and Jisoo.

“Mr. Lee,” Y/N said as she approached him one last time. “Thank you again for coming and for all your support. It’s been a pleasure to see Jisoo shine tonight.”

Sangyeon nodded, his expression sincere. “Thank you, Ms. Y/N. It’s been a pleasure to be here. We appreciate everything you do for Jisoo.”

Y/N smiled, feeling a bit of reluctance as she prepared to leave. “Have a great evening, Mr. Lee. I hope you and Jisoo enjoy the rest of the holiday season.”

“You too, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said warmly. “Take care.”

As Y/N watched Sangyeon and Jisoo leave, she felt a lingering sense of curiosity about Sangyeon. Their interactions had been pleasant and meaningful, but she still felt like there was more to discover about him. Despite the slow pace of their budding connection, Y/N found herself looking forward to the possibility of getting to know Sangyeon better in the future.

For now, Y/N was content with the steady rhythm of their interactions. The end-of-year celebrations had brought a sense of closure and accomplishment, and Y/N was eager to see what the new year would bring. She continued to appreciate the quiet moments of connection with Sangyeon, knowing that each interaction was a step toward a deeper understanding.

The slow burn of their relationship continued, marked by small, meaningful exchanges and shared experiences. Y/N remained patient, respecting Sangyeon’s boundaries while quietly hoping for opportunities to build a stronger connection.

Winter deepened, and the holiday season cast its festive glow over the school. The children were buzzing with excitement for the winter break and the upcoming holiday festivities. For Y/N, this time of year was a whirlwind of activity, balancing preparations for the holiday party with the regular demands of teaching. Amidst the bustle, her thoughts often drifted to Sangyeon Lee, intrigued by the glimpses of depth she had begun to see.

One crisp December afternoon, the school hosted a winter-themed family day, inviting parents to join their children for an afternoon of crafts, games, and seasonal treats. Y/N had been busy setting up the classroom for the event, arranging tables and decorations, and preparing for the activities that would keep the children entertained.

As the school’s doors opened, families streamed in, bringing with them the warmth and cheer of the season. Y/N greeted parents and children with a smile, guiding them to their designated areas and making sure everyone felt welcome. The atmosphere was lively and festive, with laughter and chatter filling the air.

The highlight of the day was a holiday craft project, where children and their families could create their own decorations to take home. Y/N had set up tables with various craft supplies, including colored paper, glitter, glue, and stickers. The children eagerly gathered around the tables, their eyes wide with excitement as they began to create their holiday masterpieces.

Y/N was in her element, moving from table to table, offering assistance and encouragement. She was especially attentive to Jisoo, who was working on a particularly elaborate snowflake decoration. Sangyeon was there too, his presence a comforting fixture as he helped Jisoo with his project.

“Mr. Lee,” Y/N greeted Sangyeon with a warm smile as she approached their table. “It’s great to see you here today. Jisoo’s really getting into his craft project.”

Sangyeon looked up from the table, his expression pleased. “Thank you, Ms. Y/N. Jisoo’s been looking forward to this all week. It’s nice to see him so engaged.”

Jisoo looked up from his work, his face alight with enthusiasm. “Look at my snowflake, Ms. Y/N! I’m going to hang it in my room!”

Y/N leaned in to admire Jisoo’s creation. “That’s fantastic, Jisoo! It’s going to look great in your room.”

As Y/N helped Jisoo with a tricky part of his project, she found herself in a comfortable conversation with Sangyeon. They talked about the holiday plans, the children’s excitement, and even a bit about their own holiday traditions. Y/N noticed that Sangyeon’s demeanor was more relaxed and open than usual, and she could sense a hint of personal insight in his responses.

“I have to admit,” Sangyeon said as he adjusted a piece of glitter on Jisoo’s snowflake, “I’m not very crafty myself. Jisoo’s got a talent for this that I don’t.”

Y/N chuckled. “Crafting isn’t everyone’s forte, but you’re doing a great job helping him. It’s the thought that counts.”

Sangyeon smiled, a touch of gratitude in his eyes. “Thanks. It’s nice to be able to share this time with him. I know how much it means to him.”

Their conversation flowed easily, and Y/N began to appreciate the layers of Sangyeon’s personality that were slowly revealing themselves. He spoke with a quiet sincerity, and there was an underlying warmth in his words that hinted at a deeper connection with his nephew.

As the craft session continued, Y/N and Sangyeon worked side by side, occasionally glancing at each other and sharing smiles. The atmosphere was relaxed and pleasant, and Y/N felt a growing sense of ease in Sangyeon’s company. She noticed how attentive he was to Jisoo’s needs, his patience and care evident in every interaction.

The event moved on to a holiday-themed game, and Y/N took part in organizing the children for a round of “Holiday Bingo.” The game was a hit, with kids excitedly marking off their cards and cheering as they called out their “Bingo!”s. Sangyeon joined in, enthusiastically participating with Jisoo, and Y/N couldn’t help but admire his ability to engage with the children and make the event enjoyable for everyone.

As the afternoon wore on, the festive spirit was in full swing. Families mingled, enjoyed refreshments, and participated in various activities. Y/N found herself standing near the refreshment table, taking a brief break and observing the scene around her. Sangyeon and Jisoo were seated at a nearby table, enjoying hot cocoa and cookies, their conversation animated and full of laughter.

Y/N approached them, carrying a tray of cookies. “I thought you might like a little holiday treat,” she said, offering the tray.

Sangyeon accepted a cookie with a smile. “Thank you, Ms. Y/N. These look delicious.”

Jisoo eagerly reached for a cookie, his face lighting up with delight. “Thanks, Ms. Y/N!”

As they enjoyed their treats, Y/N and Sangyeon continued their conversation. They talked about their favorite holiday traditions, shared stories from their childhood, and even discussed their plans for the upcoming year. Y/N was struck by how open Sangyeon was becoming, revealing small glimpses of his personal life and experiences.

At one point, Y/N asked, “So, Mr. Lee, do you have any special holiday traditions you look forward to each year?”

Sangyeon paused for a moment, considering the question. “Actually, we do have a tradition in our family. Every year, we make a big holiday meal together and then spend the evening watching holiday movies. It’s a nice way to unwind and enjoy each other’s company.”

“That sounds lovely,” Y/N said, genuinely interested. “Do you have a favorite holiday movie?”

Sangyeon chuckled. “I have to admit, I’m a sucker for the classics. ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ is always a favorite.”

Y/N’s eyes brightened. “That’s one of my favorites too! It’s such a heartwarming film.”

Their conversation continued, and Y/N found herself increasingly drawn to Sangyeon’s sincerity and warmth. He spoke with a kind of understated charm, and there was an easygoing nature to him that made their interactions enjoyable. Despite the slow pace of their developing relationship, Y/N felt a growing sense of connection and curiosity about him.

As the event drew to a close, Y/N found herself reluctant to say goodbye. The afternoon had been pleasant, filled with laughter and meaningful conversation. She felt a sense of satisfaction from the successful event and the positive interactions she had shared with Sangyeon and Jisoo.

Before they parted ways, Y/N took a moment to express her gratitude. “Thank you for coming today, Mr. Lee. It’s been wonderful to see you and Jisoo enjoying the festivities.”

Sangyeon nodded, his smile warm. “Thank you for organizing such a fantastic event, Ms. Y/N. Jisoo had a great time.”

Y/N felt a pang of reluctance as she prepared to leave. “I hope you and Jisoo have a wonderful holiday season. I’m looking forward to seeing you both again soon.”

“You too, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said. “Take care.”

As Y/N watched Sangyeon and Jisoo leave, she felt a mixture of contentment and anticipation. Their interactions had deepened, and Y/N found herself increasingly intrigued by Sangyeon.

For now, Y/N was content with the gradual progress and the glimpses of truth she had begun to uncover. The slow burn of their relationship continued, marked by small, meaningful exchanges and shared experiences. Y/N remained patient, respecting Sangyeon’s boundaries while quietly hoping for opportunities to build a deeper connection.

The holiday season passed, bringing with it a sense of renewal and possibility. Y/N looked forward to the new year with optimism, eager to see how her relationship with Sangyeon would evolve. She appreciated the steady rhythm of their interactions and the growing sense of understanding between them.

The path ahead was uncertain, but Y/N was ready to embrace the journey, knowing that every step, no matter how small, was a step toward discovering the depth of their connection.

The winter months continued their gentle hold over the city, the cold air mingling with the warmth of emerging friendships and budding connections. As the days grew longer and the snow began to recede, Y/N and Sangyeon’s interactions had become a comforting routine.

In the following weeks, Y/N and Sangyeon began to spend more time together outside of school, though their interactions remained subtle and low-key. They exchanged casual text messages, often discussing their daily lives and sharing recommendations for books, movies, and local events. Their conversations were filled with light-hearted banter and genuine interest, creating a solid foundation for their growing friendship.

One chilly afternoon, as Y/N was preparing for a new week at school, she received a text from Sangyeon.

Sangyeon: “Hey, Ms. Y/N. I’m planning to visit the local farmer’s market this Saturday. They’re supposed to have some great winter produce. Would you be interested in joining me?”

Y/N paused for a moment, contemplating the invitation. The idea of spending more time with Sangyeon appealed to her, and the farmer’s market seemed like a pleasant way to do so. She quickly typed out a response.

Y/N: “That sounds lovely! I’d be happy to join you. What time were you thinking of going?”

Sangyeon: “How about 10 AM? We can grab a coffee first and then head to the market.”

Y/N: “Perfect. See you then!”

The anticipation of their outing brought a smile to Y/N’s face. She spent the rest of the week looking forward to the Saturday morning adventure, curious about what the farmer’s market had to offer.

Saturday arrived with a crisp, clear sky and a hint of warmth in the air. Y/N dressed warmly but comfortably, opting for a cozy sweater and a pair of jeans. She made her way to the café where they had previously met, eager to see Sangyeon and start their day.

When she arrived at the café, she found Sangyeon already waiting at a corner table, his warm smile greeting her as she walked in.

“Hi, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said, standing up to greet her. “I hope you’re ready for a fun morning.”

“I am,” Y/N replied, returning his smile. “It’s great to see you again.”

They ordered their coffees and settled into their seats, chatting about their week and exchanging stories about their various activities. The conversation flowed effortlessly, and Y/N felt a growing sense of comfort in Sangyeon’s presence. The slow and steady progression of their relationship was creating a solid foundation for their budding connection.

After finishing their coffee, they made their way to the farmer’s market. The market was bustling with activity, vendors showcasing their fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh bread and roasted nuts, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Sangyeon led the way, guiding Y/N through the various stalls. “I thought we could start by checking out the vegetable stands. They’re supposed to have some amazing winter vegetables.”

Y/N nodded, her curiosity piqued. “That sounds like a great idea. I’ve been meaning to try cooking with some new ingredients.”

They spent the next hour exploring the market, sampling fresh produce and chatting with vendors. Sangyeon’s enthusiasm for the different products was infectious, and Y/N found herself enjoying the experience more than she had anticipated.

As they strolled through the market, Sangyeon pointed out his favorite stalls and shared tips on selecting the best ingredients. His knowledge and passion for cooking were evident, and Y/N admired his expertise.

“You really know your way around the market,” Y/N remarked, picking up a bunch of vibrant carrots.

Sangyeon grinned. “I’ve spent a lot of time here over the years. It’s one of my favorite places to find fresh ingredients.”

Their conversation continued as they wandered through the market, discussing their favorite recipes and cooking techniques. The slow pace of their interaction allowed them to learn more about each other’s preferences and interests, deepening their connection.

After purchasing a variety of items, they decided to take a break and enjoy a snack from one of the food vendors. They sat on a nearby bench, savoring warm pastries and hot chocolate as they continued their conversation.

“This is really nice,” Y/N said, taking a sip of her drink. “I’ve enjoyed spending time with you and exploring the market.”

Sangyeon nodded in agreement. “I’ve had a great time too. It’s nice to have the opportunity to get to know each other better outside of the classroom.”

Their conversation shifted to more personal topics as they continued to chat. Y/N shared stories about her childhood and her journey to becoming a kindergarten teacher, while Sangyeon opened up about his own experiences and aspirations.

The sun was dipping below the horizon, casting a soft, golden hue over the emptying farmer’s market. Y/N and Sangyeon walked slowly, their bags filled with fresh produce, the energy of the day settling into a peaceful lull. They had been at the market for hours, chatting with local vendors, trying samples, and picking out what felt like half the stalls’ worth of vegetables and fruits.

Y/N nudged Sangyeon lightly. “I think we’ve officially cleaned out the entire market,” she said with a laugh, glancing down at the bags in her hands.

Sangyeon grinned, shifting the weight of his own bags. “Jisoo’s going to be happy about it, though. He’ll eat just about anything as long as it’s fresh.”

Y/N smiled fondly. “He’s such a sweet kid. I can’t believe how well-behaved and smart he is at such a young age. You are really doing an amazing job.”

Sangyeon slowed slightly, his smile fading into something more thoughtful. “Uh, actually… I should probably clear something up.”

Y/N looked up at him, a puzzled expression crossing her face. “What do you mean?”

He sighed, adjusting the bag on his shoulder before meeting her gaze. “Jisoo—he’s not my son. I’m just his uncle.”

Y/N stopped in her tracks, eyes widening as she processed what he just said. “Wait, what?”

Sangyeon gave her a sheepish smile, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. “Yeah… both of his parents are around. They’re actually really great, but they work a lot. So, I’ve been helping out whenever I can. He spends a lot of time with me, and I guess people just assume I’m his dad. It never felt important enough to correct.”

Y/N blinked a few times, her mind spinning. “I’ve been calling you ‘his dad’ this whole time… and you just let me?”

Sangyeon chuckled softly, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “I thought it was kind of funny, honestly. And… I don’t know, I guess I liked the idea of being seen that way, even if it wasn’t true.”

Y/N shook her head, laughing despite herself. “You should have told me sooner! I feel like an idiot.”

“Hey,” Sangyeon said, his voice gentle. “Don’t feel bad. Jisoo’s close to me, and I’m close to him. That’s all that matters, right?”

Y/N’s laughter died down, and she gave him a warm smile. “Yeah. You’re right. It’s really sweet that you’re so involved in his life.”

Sangyeon’s expression softened, and they started walking again, the moment of tension dissipating. “Thanks. He’s a good kid. It’s hard not to want to be there for him.”

As they walked through the nearly empty market, Y/N found herself looking at Sangyeon differently. There was something endearing about the way he talked about his family, his dedication to Jisoo. And now, knowing the truth, it felt like there was a layer of vulnerability she hadn’t seen before.

“It’s been a wonderful day,” Y/N said as they approached the exit of the market. “Thank you for inviting me.”

“It was my pleasure,” Sangyeon replied, his smile warm and genuine. “I’ve enjoyed every moment of it.”

They exchanged a final goodbye and promised to keep in touch. Y/N walked home with a sense of contentment, reflecting on the day’s events. The gradual progression of their relationship was creating a solid foundation, and she felt optimistic about the future.

The following week, Y/N and Sangyeon continued their regular interactions, often exchanging messages and occasionally meeting for coffee or brief catch-ups. Their connection continued to grow, marked by moments of shared laughter and mutual understanding.

One evening, as Y/N was preparing for bed, she received a text from Sangyeon.

Sangyeon: “Hey, Ms. Y/N. I was thinking it might be nice to go for a walk in the park this weekend. The weather’s supposed to be nice. What do you think?”

Y/N smiled at the invitation, her excitement evident. Y/N: “That sounds lovely. I’d enjoy that. What time were you thinking?”

Sangyeon: “How about Sunday afternoon? We can meet at the park entrance at 2 PM.”

Y/N: “Perfect. I’ll see you then!”

As the weekend approached, Y/N looked forward to their park outing with anticipation. The slow and steady progression of their relationship had created a comfortable and meaningful connection, and she was eager to continue exploring the possibilities.

Sunday afternoon arrived with clear skies and a gentle breeze. Y/N arrived at the park entrance a bit early, taking in the beauty of the surroundings. The park was a tranquil oasis, with lush greenery and winding paths that offered a peaceful retreat from the city.

When Sangyeon arrived, he greeted Y/N with his usual warm smile. “Hi, Ms. Y/N. Ready for a walk?”

“Hi, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, returning his smile. “I’m ready. This park is beautiful.”

They began their walk, following one of the scenic trails that meandered through the park. The conversation flowed naturally, as they talked about their favorite parks, outdoor activities, and their experiences with nature.

As they walked, Y/N and Sangyeon continued to enjoy each other’s company. The slow pace of their interactions allowed them to appreciate the small moments of connection and understanding.

By the end of the walk, as the sun began to set, Y/N and Sangyeon found a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the view. They shared a comfortable silence, taking in the beauty of the park and the peaceful atmosphere.

“This has been a really nice day,” Y/N said, breaking the silence. “I’ve enjoyed our time together.”

Sangyeon nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I’ve enjoyed it too. It’s been great getting to know you better.”

Their conversation continued as they relaxed in the park, their connection deepening with each shared moment. The slow and steady progression of their relationship was creating a solid foundation for something meaningful, and Y/N couldn’t help but feel optimistic about the future.

As the evening drew to a close, Y/N and Sangyeon exchanged warm goodbyes, each looking forward to the next opportunity to spend time together. The path of their relationship was unfolding gradually.

Spring had arrived in the city, bringing with it a sense of renewal and fresh beginnings. The trees were budding with vibrant green leaves, and the flowers were blooming in a riot of colors. The park, where Y/N and Sangyeon had taken their walks, now looked even more inviting. The season’s change seemed to mirror the evolving nature of their relationship.

Y/N and Sangyeon had continued their slow progression, meeting regularly for coffee, walks in the park, and occasionally sharing meals. Their connection had deepened, marked by a growing sense of comfort and mutual understanding. Their interactions remained grounded and genuine, allowing them both to savor each moment.

One sunny Saturday morning, Y/N found herself looking forward to another outing with Sangyeon. They had planned a visit to a local art fair, something Y/N had been excited about for weeks. Art had always been a passion of hers, and she was eager to share this experience with Sangyeon.

She arrived at the art fair a bit early, taking in the vibrant atmosphere as artists showcased their work in colorful tents and booths. The air was filled with the sounds of cheerful chatter, and the scent of freshly baked treats wafted through the fairgrounds.

Y/N was admiring a collection of paintings when she spotted Sangyeon walking toward her, his warm smile greeting her from afar. He approached with a light-hearted bounce in his step, clearly excited about the day.

“Hi, Ms. Y/N!” Sangyeon called out, his voice filled with enthusiasm. “This place looks amazing. I’ve been looking forward to it.”

“Hi, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, returning his smile. “I’m glad you could make it. I’ve been eager to explore the art fair with you.”

They spent the next few hours strolling through the fair, stopping at various booths to admire the artwork. The array of paintings, sculptures, and crafts was impressive, and Y/N found herself captivated by the creativity on display.

Sangyeon, though less familiar with the art world, showed genuine interest in Y/N’s observations and opinions. They discussed the various pieces they encountered, with Y/N explaining the techniques and styles that intrigued her.

“This painting is stunning,” Y/N said, pointing to a vibrant piece featuring a serene landscape. “I love the use of color and light. It really captures the essence of tranquility.”

Sangyeon nodded, studying the painting with newfound appreciation. “I can see that. It’s amazing how art can evoke such strong emotions. I wouldn’t have noticed those details without your perspective.”

Their conversation flowed naturally, and they continued to explore the fair, enjoying each other’s company. The slow and steady progression of their relationship allowed them to appreciate these moments of connection and understanding.

After a few hours of browsing, they decided to take a break and grab a bite to eat. They found a cozy food stand offering an array of delicious options and settled at a nearby picnic table.

“This is a great spot,” Sangyeon said, taking a bite of his sandwich. “The food here is fantastic.”

“I agree,” Y/N replied, enjoying a tasty pastry. “It’s nice to have a chance to relax and chat after all that walking.”

Their conversation shifted to more personal topics as they continued to eat. They talked about their favorite artists, memorable experiences, and their future aspirations. Sangyeon opened up about his passion for cooking, sharing stories about his culinary adventures and favorite dishes.

“I’ve always wanted to try my hand at baking,” Sangyeon confessed. “There’s something so satisfying about creating something delicious from scratch.”

Y/N’s eyes lit up with interest. “That sounds wonderful. I’ve always enjoyed baking as well. Maybe we could exchange recipes sometime.”

Sangyeon’s smile widened. “I’d love that. It would be great to share our culinary creations with each other.”

The afternoon continued with a sense of ease and contentment. As they wrapped up their time at the art fair, Y/N and Sangyeon exchanged thoughts on their favorite pieces and experiences from the day.

“I’m really glad we came,” Y/N said, her voice reflecting genuine appreciation. “It’s been such a pleasure exploring the art fair with you.”

“Me too,” Sangyeon replied, his tone warm and sincere. “I’ve enjoyed every moment. It’s been great getting to know you better.”

They made plans to meet again soon, with Sangyeon suggesting another outing for next weekend. Y/N eagerly agreed, looking forward to the next opportunity to spend time together.

As they said their goodbyes, Y/N felt a growing sense of connection and excitement about the future. The slow, steady pace of their relationship had created a solid foundation, and she felt optimistic about the possibilities ahead.

The following week was filled with a mix of routine activities and anticipation for their next outing. Y/N continued her work at the kindergarten, enjoying the interactions with her students and the sense of fulfillment that came with her job. Sangyeon’s presence in her life had become a cherished part of her routine, and she looked forward to their time together.

One evening, as Y/N was preparing dinner at home, she received a text from Sangyeon.

Sangyeon: “Hey, Ms. Y/N. I was thinking it might be nice to have a picnic at the park this weekend. The weather’s supposed to be lovely. What do you think?”

Y/N’s face lit up with a smile. Y/N: “That sounds perfect! I’d love to have a picnic. What time were you thinking?”

Sangyeon: “How about Saturday afternoon? We can meet at the park entrance around 1 PM.”

Y/N: “Sounds great. I’ll see you then!”

The anticipation for their picnic filled Y/N with excitement. She spent the next few days preparing for the outing, packing a basket with a variety of delicious treats and planning a comfortable setup for their picnic.

Saturday arrived with clear skies and a gentle breeze. Y/N arrived at the park entrance with her picnic basket in hand, ready for the day’s adventure. Sangyeon was already waiting for her, his warm smile greeting her as she approached.

“Hi, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “I’m glad you could make it. Are you ready for a picnic?”

“Hi, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, returning his smile. “I’m definitely ready. I’ve got everything we need for a great picnic.”

They made their way to a shaded spot under a large oak tree, spreading out a blanket and setting up their picnic. The park was lively with families and friends enjoying the beautiful weather, adding to the cheerful atmosphere.

As they settled down and began to enjoy their picnic, their conversation flowed easily. They talked about their favorite outdoor activities, shared stories about past picnics, and discussed their plans for the summer.

“This picnic is wonderful,” Y/N said, taking a bite of one of the sandwiches she had prepared. “You picked a great spot.”

“I’m glad you like it,” Sangyeon replied, savoring a bite of fruit. “It’s been nice spending time together and enjoying the day.”

Their conversation continued as they relaxed in the park, enjoying the simple pleasure of each other’s company. The slow and steady pace of their relationship allowed them to appreciate these moments of connection and understanding.

As the afternoon wore on, Y/N and Sangyeon decided to take a leisurely walk around the park. They strolled along the winding paths, taking in the beauty of the blooming flowers and the vibrant greenery.

The day continued to unfold with a sense of ease and contentment. As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the park, Y/N and Sangyeon found a quiet spot to sit and enjoy the view.

“This has been such a lovely day,” Y/N said, her voice reflecting genuine appreciation. “I’ve really enjoyed our time together.”

Sangyeon nodded, his smile warm and sincere. “I’ve enjoyed it too. It’s been great getting to know you better and spending time together.”

As the days continued to pass, Y/N and Sangyeon’s connection continued to grow. Their interactions remained grounded and meaningful, marked by moments of shared laughter and understanding. The anticipation for their next outing kept Y/N excited, and she looked forward to exploring the possibilities of their evolving relationship.

Summer had fully settled into the city, with long, warm days and clear, starry nights. The park, where Y/N and Sangyeon had spent so much time together, now seemed like a magical place, bathed in golden sunlight. Their relationship had continued to develop at a slow, deliberate pace, with each moment spent together strengthening their bond.

The weeks leading up to the summer break were filled with anticipation and excitement for Y/N. Her students had been working hard, and she was proud of their progress. She continued to look forward to her time with Sangyeon, enjoying their leisurely outings and deepening conversations.

One particular Saturday morning, Y/N was bustling around her kitchen, preparing for a small gathering she had planned. She had invited Sangyeon over for brunch, hoping to celebrate the end of the school year with a relaxed and enjoyable meal. She had spent the previous evening preparing a variety of dishes, from freshly baked croissants to a colorful fruit salad.

The doorbell rang at precisely 10:30 AM, and Y/N hurried to answer it, wiping her hands on a towel. As she opened the door, she was greeted by Sangyeon’s warm smile and a bouquet of flowers in his hand.

“Good morning, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon said, his eyes twinkling with excitement. “I brought these for you. I thought they’d brighten your day.”

“Good morning, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, accepting the flowers with a grateful smile. “Thank you so much. They’re beautiful. Please, come in.”

Sangyeon stepped inside, looking around with interest. The aroma of freshly prepared food filled the air, and he could see the neatly arranged table set for their brunch.

“This looks amazing,” Sangyeon commented, his eyes widening in appreciation. “You’ve really outdone yourself.”

“I’m glad you think so,” Y/N said, feeling a flush of pride. “I wanted to make today special. I’ve been looking forward to spending some quality time with you.”

As they settled at the table, they began to enjoy the brunch Y/N had prepared. The conversation flowed naturally, with Sangyeon sharing anecdotes from his week and Y/N talking about her experiences with her students.

“I had a fantastic last day of school with the kids,” Y/N said, her eyes shining with enthusiasm. “They were so excited about the summer break, and we had a little party to celebrate.”

“That sounds wonderful,” Sangyeon replied. “I bet they were thrilled. You always seem to make every day special for them.”

Y/N’s cheeks flushed slightly at the compliment. “Thank you. It’s really important to me that they have a positive experience. And I’ve loved having the chance to get to know them.”

Their conversation continued as they enjoyed the meal, filled with laughter and shared stories. The atmosphere was relaxed and comfortable, with both Y/N and Sangyeon feeling at ease in each other’s company.

After brunch, they decided to take a leisurely walk around Y/N’s neighborhood. The summer weather was perfect for a stroll, with a gentle breeze and the sun shining brightly overhead.

As they walked, their conversation turned to their plans for the summer. Y/N shared her excitement about a trip she had planned to a nearby coastal town, where she hoped to spend some time relaxing by the beach and exploring the local sights.

“I’ve been looking forward to this trip for weeks,” Y/N said, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “I’ve always loved the beach, and I think it will be a great way to unwind after the school year.”

“That sounds fantastic,” Sangyeon said, nodding in agreement. “I’ve always enjoyed beach trips too. There’s something so refreshing about the ocean and the sand.”

Their discussion continued as they wandered through the neighborhood, taking in the sights and enjoying each other’s company. The slow and steady progression of their relationship allowed them to savor these moments of connection and understanding.

As the sun began to set, casting a warm golden glow over the city, Y/N and Sangyeon found themselves back at her apartment. They decided to sit on the balcony and enjoy the view of the city lights as they continued their conversation.

“I’ve really enjoyed today,” Sangyeon said, his voice sincere. “It’s been nice to spend some quality time together and get to know each other better.”

“Me too,” Y/N replied, her smile reflecting her feelings. “Today has been perfect. I’m really grateful for the time we’ve spent together.”

They continued to talk as the evening wore on, discussing their favorite books, movies, and music. The conversation flowed easily, and they found themselves laughing and sharing personal stories.

As the night drew to a close, Sangyeon stood up, preparing to head home. “Thank you for a wonderful day, Ms. Y/N. I’ve had a great time.”

“You’re welcome, Mr. Lee,” Y/N said, standing up as well. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to our next outing.”

They exchanged a warm hug, both feeling a sense of contentment and anticipation for the future.

The following week brought a mix of routine activities and moments of anticipation. Y/N continued to prepare for her upcoming trip, excited about the opportunity to relax and unwind. She also looked forward to her next meeting with Sangyeon, eagerly anticipating their next adventure together.

One afternoon, Y/N received a message from Sangyeon.

Sangyeon: “Hi, Ms. Y/N. I was thinking it might be nice to have a small dinner party this weekend. I’d love for you to come. What do you think?”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat at the invitation. Y/N: “That sounds wonderful! I’d love to come. What time should I be there?”

Sangyeon: “How about 7 PM on Saturday? I’ll send you the address. I’m looking forward to it!”

Y/N: “I can’t wait. See you then!”

The anticipation for the dinner party added a new layer of excitement to Y/N’s week. She spent the next few days preparing for the event, carefully choosing an outfit and planning a small gift for Sangyeon as a token of her appreciation.

Saturday evening arrived, and Y/N found herself standing outside Sangyeon’s apartment building, holding a small bouquet of flowers. She had received the address earlier in the week and had been eagerly looking forward to the dinner party.

As she approached the entrance, she could hear the faint sounds of music and laughter coming from inside. She took a deep breath, adjusted her outfit, and pressed the buzzer for Sangyeon’s apartment.

“Hi, Ms. Y/N!” Sangyeon’s voice came through the intercom. “I’m so glad you could make it. Please come on up.”

The door buzzed open, and Y/N made her way to Sangyeon’s apartment. When she arrived, he greeted her with a warm smile and a friendly hug.

“Welcome!” Sangyeon said, taking the bouquet from Y/N. “Thank you for bringing these. They’re beautiful.”

“You’re welcome,” Y/N replied, feeling a bit nervous but excited. “Thank you for inviting me. I’m really looking forward to the evening.”

Sangyeon led her into the apartment, which was tastefully decorated and filled with the aroma of delicious food. The dining table was set with care, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.

“Feel free to make yourself at home,” Sangyeon said, guiding Y/N to a comfortable seat. “The dinner will be ready soon, and we’ll have a chance to enjoy some great food and conversation.”

As they waited for the meal to be served, Sangyeon and Y/N continued their conversation, discussing their favorite recipes and sharing cooking tips. The relaxed atmosphere allowed them to connect on a deeper level, and Y/N felt a growing sense of comfort and familiarity.

When the dinner was finally served, it was clear that Sangyeon had put a lot of effort into preparing the meal. The table was filled with a variety of dishes, from savory main courses to delectable desserts.

“This looks incredible,” Y/N said, her eyes widening in appreciation. “You’ve really outdone yourself.”

“I’m glad you think so,” Sangyeon replied, smiling with pride. “I hope you enjoy everything. It’s been fun preparing this meal for you.”

As they enjoyed the dinner, their conversation continued to flow easily, filled with laughter and shared stories. The evening felt effortless, marked by moments of connection and understanding.

By the end of the night, as Y/N prepared to head home, she felt a deep sense of satisfaction and happiness. The slow, steady progression of their relationship had created a solid foundation, and she was excited about the future.

Sangyeon walked her to the door, his smile warm and genuine. “Thank you for coming tonight, Ms. Y/N. I had a great time.”

“You’re welcome, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, her smile reflecting her feelings. “Thank you for hosting such a lovely evening. I’m looking forward to our next adventure together.”

As Y/N made her way home, she reflected on the evening’s events with a sense of contentment.

The summer days in the small town continued to blend into one another, each one a testament to the warmth and depth of Y/N and Sangyeon’s growing connection. By now, their meetings had become a cherished part of their routine, and both looked forward to the time they spent together. Despite their slow progression, the bond between them was undeniable.

As the day for their next outing approached, Y/N found herself filled with both excitement and a touch of nervous anticipation. The promise of exploring a new town and spending more time with Sangyeon was invigorating. She took extra care in selecting her outfit for the day—a light blue sundress that flowed gracefully with her movements, paired with a simple white cardigan for a touch of elegance. The outfit was comfortable yet chic, perfect for a day of exploration and conversation.

The morning sun bathed the town in a golden glow, and Y/N arrived at the park entrance with a heart full of anticipation. She arrived a bit earlier than planned, wanting to savor the tranquility of the park before Sangyeon arrived. As she waited, she took in the sights and sounds around her—the distant laughter of children, the chirping of birds, and the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze.

At exactly 10 AM, Sangyeon pulled up in his silver car, his arrival signaled by the soft rumble of the engine. He stepped out of the car, his presence striking and reassuring. Dressed in a casual button-down shirt and jeans, he looked effortlessly stylish and at ease. Y/N’s heart skipped a beat as he approached her with a warm smile.

“Good morning, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon greeted, his voice carrying a note of genuine enthusiasm. “Ready for our adventure?”

“Good morning, Mr. Lee,” Y/N responded, her smile matching his. “I’m very excited. This town looks amazing.”

Sangyeon opened the car door for Y/N, a gesture that made her heart flutter with appreciation. As they drove to the town, the conversation flowed naturally, with Sangyeon sharing interesting anecdotes about the area and Y/N chiming in with her own observations and stories. Their rapport was effortless, and the journey passed in what felt like the blink of an eye.

Upon reaching the town, Y/N was immediately struck by its charm. The cobblestone streets were lined with quaint shops and cozy cafes, and the air was filled with the scent of fresh pastries and blooming flowers. The town had a warm, welcoming atmosphere that made Y/N feel right at home.

Sangyeon parked the car, and they set off on foot, their exploration beginning with a visit to a renowned bakery. The bakery’s exterior was as charming as its interior, with pastel-colored awnings and flower boxes brimming with vibrant blooms. Inside, the aroma of freshly baked goods was irresistible.

“This place is famous for its cinnamon rolls,” Sangyeon said, leading Y/N to the counter. “I thought we should start with these.”

Y/N’s eyes widened with delight as she watched Sangyeon place the order. The cinnamon rolls were everything he had promised—soft, gooey, and perfectly spiced. She took a bite and closed her eyes, savoring the sweet, cinnamon flavor.

“This is incredible,” Y/N said, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. “You have excellent taste.”

“I’m glad you think so,” Sangyeon replied with a smile. “I’ve been coming here for years. It’s one of my favorite spots.”

They enjoyed their pastries and iced coffees at a cozy table by the window. The conversation continued to flow effortlessly, punctuated by shared laughter and moments of comfortable silence. It was clear that their time together was as enjoyable for Sangyeon as it was for Y/N.

After finishing their pastries, they strolled through the town, taking in the various shops and boutiques. They meandered through a charming bookstore, where they found themselves engrossed in discussions about their favorite authors and literary genres. Y/N selected a few books that piqued her interest, and Sangyeon made a mental note of her preferences, eager to surprise her with a thoughtful gift in the future.

As the day progressed, they decided to take a break for lunch at a quaint café with outdoor seating. The café was adorned with colorful flowers and provided a picturesque view of the town square. They ordered sandwiches and iced teas, and once again, the conversation was lively and engaging.

“I’ve had such a wonderful time today,” Y/N said, her voice filled with warmth. “It’s been so nice to explore this town with you.”

“I’ve enjoyed it too,” Sangyeon replied, his smile sincere. “It’s been great getting to know you better. I feel like we’ve really connected.”

After lunch, they decided to take a leisurely walk through a nearby park. The park was serene, with well-manicured lawns, a small pond, and shaded paths perfect for a relaxing stroll. They found a peaceful spot by the pond and took a seat on a bench, enjoying the tranquility of the setting.

As they sat together, Y/N reflected on the depth of their growing relationship. They had shared so many special moments, and the connection between them had only strengthened with time. Despite the slow pace, she felt a strong sense of contentment and excitement about the future.

Sangyeon, sensing Y/N’s contemplative mood, turned to her and asked, “What’s on your mind?”

Y/N smiled, her gaze drifting over the pond. “I’ve just been thinking about how much I’ve enjoyed spending time with you. It’s been really special, and I’m grateful for every moment we’ve shared.”

Sangyeon’s expression softened, and he reached out to take her hand in his. The touch was gentle and reassuring, and Y/N’s heart raced at the contact. “I’ve enjoyed it too,” Sangyeon said quietly. “You’re an incredible person, and I’m really happy to have you in my life.”

Y/N looked into Sangyeon’s eyes, seeing the sincerity and warmth there. “What are you thinking about, Mr. Lee?”

Sangyeon took a deep breath, his gaze never leaving hers. “I’ve been thinking about how we’ve been spending time together and how much I value our moments. I know we’ve been taking things slowly, but I feel like it’s the right time to ask you something important.”

Y/N’s heart fluttered with anticipation. She looked at him with a mixture of curiosity and nervousness. “What is it?”

Sangyeon hesitated for a moment, then continued, “I would really like to take you out on a proper date. We’ve spent so much time together, and I feel like it’s time for us to explore what this could become. Would you be interested in going on a date with me?”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat, and she felt a rush of excitement and happiness. She looked into Sangyeon’s eyes, seeing the genuine affection and sincerity there. “I’d love to go on a date with you, Mr. Lee.”

Sangyeon’s face lit up with a relieved and happy smile. “I’m glad to hear that. I’ve been looking forward to asking you for a while now, and I’m really excited about the possibility of exploring this relationship further.”

As they continued to sit by the pond, holding hands and sharing their thoughts, Y/N felt a deep sense of contentment. The slow, deliberate pace of their relationship had allowed them to build a strong foundation, and she was excited about the next chapter of their journey together.

The sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the park. The day had been perfect, filled with memorable moments and meaningful conversations. Y/N and Sangyeon had taken their time, savoring each step of their growing relationship. As they prepared to head home, they both felt a sense of anticipation and excitement for the future.

Sangyeon walked Y/N back to her car, and they shared a heartfelt hug before saying their goodbyes. “Thank you for a wonderful day,” Y/N said, her voice filled with warmth. “I’m really looking forward to our date.”

“Me too,” Sangyeon replied, his eyes shining with happiness. “I can’t wait to see where this leads.”

As Y/N drove home, she reflected on the day with a sense of fulfillment and joy. The slow, steady progression of their relationship had created a strong foundation, and she was excited about the possibilities that lay ahead. The journey was just beginning, and she was eager to see where it would take them.

The next chapter of their story was about to unfold, and Y/N was ready to embrace it with open arms. The journey had been slow, but it had been worth every moment. She looked forward to the adventures that awaited them and to the possibility of a future filled with love and happiness.

The day had been a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery, and as Y/N settled into her evening routine, she felt a sense of peace and contentment. She had spent quality time with Sangyeon, deepened their connection, and taken the first step toward exploring their relationship in a more meaningful way.

As she prepared for bed, Y/N thought about the upcoming date with Sangyeon. The anticipation of spending more time together and the excitement of exploring the next phase of their relationship filled her with a sense of joy and hope. She knew that the journey ahead would be filled with moments of happiness, growth, and discovery.

With a smile on her face, Y/N drifted off to sleep, eager to see where the future would lead and excited for the possibilities that awaited her and Sangyeon. The slow, steady progression of their relationship had set the stage for a beautiful beginning, and Y/N was ready to embrace whatever came next.

The next morning, Y/N woke up feeling refreshed and excited. She spent the day preparing for her date with Sangyeon, carefully choosing her outfit and getting ready with a mix of nervousness and anticipation. She wanted everything to be perfect, knowing that this date would mark a new chapter in their relationship.

As the time for their date approached, Y/N found herself unable to contain her excitement. She checked her phone for the time and confirmed the details with Sangyeon. They had decided to meet at a charming little bistro in town, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious cuisine.

When Y/N arrived at the bistro, she was greeted by the warm, inviting ambiance of the restaurant. The soft lighting and elegant decor created a romantic setting, and Y/N felt a sense of anticipation as she waited for Sangyeon to arrive.

As the clock struck the designated time, Sangyeon walked through the door, looking dashing in a well-fitted suit. His eyes met Y/N’s, and a warm smile spread across his face. He approached her, and Y/N’s heart fluttered with happiness.

“Good evening, Ms. Y/N,” Sangyeon greeted, his voice filled with warmth and affection. “You look stunning.”

“Thank you, Mr. Lee,” Y/N replied, her cheeks flushing with pleasure. “You look very handsome yourself.”

They were led to their table, a cozy corner with a view of the city lights. As they settled in, the conversation flowed easily, just as it always did. They talked about their day, their hopes for the future, and their shared interests.

The meal was exquisite, with each course more delicious than the last. They enjoyed a variety of dishes, from appetizers to dessert, savoring every bite and appreciating the quality of the food. The atmosphere of the bistro was perfect for a romantic evening, and Y/N felt a deep sense of contentment.

As the evening progressed, Y/N and Sangyeon continued to share their thoughts and feelings, their connection growing stronger with each passing moment. They laughed, reminisced, and dreamed about the future, savoring the intimate moments they shared.

By the end of the evening, as they walked back to their cars, Y/N felt a sense of happiness and fulfillment. The date had been everything she had hoped for and more. She and Sangyeon had taken a significant step forward in their relationship, and she was excited about the possibilities that lay ahead.

Sangyeon took Y/N’s hand as they said their goodbyes, his touch gentle and reassuring. “Thank you for a wonderful evening,” he said, his eyes filled with affection. “I’m really glad we had this time together.”

“I enjoyed it so much,” Y/N replied, her voice soft and sincere. “I’m looking forward to seeing where this journey takes us.”

As Y/N drove home, she reflected on the evening with a sense of joy and satisfaction. The date had been a beautiful experience, and she felt more connected to Sangyeon than ever before. The future was full of possibilities, and she was excited to see what it held for them.

The journey they had embarked on together had been slow and steady, but it had been filled with meaningful moments and genuine connection. Y/N felt grateful for every step they had taken and was eager to continue building their relationship.

As she arrived home and prepared for bed, Y/N felt a sense of peace and happiness. She knew that the journey with Sangyeon was just beginning, and she was ready to embrace it with an open heart and a hopeful spirit.

The night was quiet, with the hum of the city slowly fading into the background as Y/N lay in bed, replaying the day in her mind. The date with Sangyeon had been everything she hadn’t known she needed. It wasn’t the grand, over-the-top romantic experience, but it was filled with the kind of simplicity and warmth that made her heart feel full.

The way he had listened to her, the way he had laughed at her jokes, the small touches that sent warmth through her – every moment had deepened the connection they had been building for so long.

But there was still a sense of anticipation she couldn’t quite shake. Despite all the wonderful moments they’d shared, there was a question lingering in her mind: what were they, exactly? Friends who went on dates? Something more? She wasn’t sure, and it was starting to weigh on her.

The evening was set for a delightful picnic at the park, and Y/N was thrilled about the special outing with Sangyeon. They had arranged a cozy spot with a blanket spread out on the grass, a picnic basket filled with homemade dishes, and a bottle of sparkling lemonade chilling in an ice bucket. The sun was beginning to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the park.

Y/N was adjusting the blanket when she noticed Sangyeon approaching with Jisoo in tow. Jisoo’s face lit up with excitement as he saw the picnic setup. “Ms. Y/N, Uncle Sangyeon said we could have a picnic together! I brought some cookies I baked with Grandma.”

Sangyeon chuckled as he set down the picnic basket. “I hope Jisoo’s cookies are as good as his enthusiasm.”

Y/N smiled warmly at Jisoo. “I’m sure they are. Thank you for bringing them, Jisoo. They’ll make the picnic even better.”

Jisoo proudly handed over a container of cookies. “They’re chocolate chip. Grandma said they’re the best.”

As they settled down on the blanket, the picnic unfolded beautifully. Y/N and Sangyeon enjoyed their meal, exchanging stories and laughing together, while Jisoo eagerly talked about his latest adventures. The atmosphere was filled with joy and the sweet sounds of a pleasant evening in the park.

At one point, as they were finishing their meal and chatting about various topics, Jisoo suddenly became quite serious. He glanced at Y/N and then at Sangyeon, his little brow furrowed in concentration.

Y/N, curious, asked, “What’s on your mind, Jisoo?”

Jisoo took a deep breath and said, “Ms. Y/N, can I tell you a secret?”

Y/N leaned in, her curiosity piqued. “Of course, Jisoo. What’s the secret?”

Without lowering his voice or trying to be discreet, Jisoo announced loudly, “My uncle thinks you’re pretty!”

The words hung in the air, and Y/N’s face turned a lovely shade of pink. She looked over at Sangyeon, who was trying to hide his embarrassment behind a sheepish grin.

Sangyeon cleared his throat and took Y/N’s hand. “Well, I guess Jisoo beat me to it. I’ve been wanting to tell you how I feel, but he made it clear for me.”

Y/N’s heart skipped a beat. She looked at Sangyeon with a soft smile, her eyes reflecting the warmth she felt. “Thank you, Jisoo. That’s very sweet of you. And thank you, Sangyeon, for sharing your feelings.”

Jisoo, pleased with the reaction, beamed up at them. “I’m glad you know now. I think you’re really nice, Ms. Y/N.”

Sangyeon gave Y/N’s hand a gentle squeeze, his eyes filled with affection. “I’ve been trying to find the right moment to tell you how much I care about you. Jisoo’s honesty just sped up the process.”

Y/N laughed softly, feeling a warm glow inside. “I’m glad he did.

Jisoo, sensing the special moment, beamed up at them. “Are you two going to be boyfriend and girlfriend now?”

Sangyeon chuckled, ruffling Jisoo’s hair. “I think that’s up to Ms. Y/N.”

Y/N laughed softly, her heart fluttering with excitement. “I’d like that very much, Jisoo. Sangyeon, I’d love to be your girlfriend.”

Sangyeon’s face lit up with a genuine smile. “That makes me very happy. I’ve been looking forward to this for a long time.”

The three of them spent the remainder of the evening enjoying each other’s company. Jisoo’s innocent excitement about the new dynamic between Y/N and Sangyeon only added to the joy of the night. They played a few games, told stories, and watched the twilight deepen into night.

As the stars began to appear, Y/N and Sangyeon took a quiet moment alone while Jisoo was busy with a flashlight, pretending to search for “hidden treasures” in the park.

Sangyeon took Y/N’s hand, his voice tender. “Tonight has been everything I hoped it would be. I’m so grateful for this moment and for you.”

Y/N squeezed his hand, her heart full. “Me too. I’m excited for what the future holds for us.”

They shared a tender kiss under the starry sky, feeling the warmth of their connection deepening. As they packed up the picnic supplies and said their goodbyes to Jisoo, Y/N felt a sense of contentment and anticipation for the future.

Taglist: @a-dream-bookmark @deoboyznet

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