#swimmer!hoseok

[chimcess]

Waterlog || pjm (4)

Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Olympic Swimmer!Jimin, Ex Olympic Swimmer! Reader, Swim Coach!Reader Genre: Strangers to Friends to Lovers!AU, Coach!AU, Swimming!AU, HEAVY Angst, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, fluff, eventual smut, I'm so soft for these two it's crazy. Word Count: 11.8k+ Synopsis: After a car accident ends her athletic career, Y/N has slowly started rebuilding her life again as a high school swim coach. That’s until she gets a request from an old friend and finds herself back in the spotlight as the new coach of Olympic swimmer, Park Jimin. Warnings: ANGST, crying, mental health issues, talking about mental health, I'm so soft for them it's actually wild, best boyfriend Jimin, did I say angst????, past drug use, past alcohol addiction, past trauma talk, crying, anxiety, hand holding, touching as a love language, Jimin can't keep his hands to himself, he does try his best though, pining, sexual tension, banter, I love these two A/N: I know we're a couple of weeks late updating, but I've been very busy with moving so I haven't had the energy to write. I did a very quick edit, so this might not be perfect. I'm planning on coming back once I'm in my new place to do a full proofread. Hope you like the update!

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Hand clutching my phone, I sighed. All around me the airport buzzed with life. I had almost forgotten how hectic the Denver Airport was. A few feet away I saw a mother struggling to keep her children together while her husband scrolled on his phone. I must have made some sort of noise, subconsciously voicing my annoyance, because Jimin laughed.

“What’s going on, gran?” He teased, voice light. “See a couple of youngins on your lawn?”

I scoffed, tearing my eyes away from the family. “Just a shitty husband ignoring his children.”

He hissed, sucking in air through his teeth, “The worst kind of dude. Are you alright?”

Softening, I finally spotted my luggage on the conveyor belt. Twisting my torso, I did a light stretch and then quickly snatched the heavy bag up. “Not too anxious, right?”

He had been very worried about letting me come home for a visit. When I had originally brought it up he offered himself up for the job, but I was not a fan of that idea. My friends would definitely bring up our date and I did not want to deal with the awkwardness that would cause. Especially since we had yet to go on it. That would not matter to Hoseok, however, and the teasing would have been endless. Better to spare Jimin from their wrath for just a little while longer.

“I’m cool,” I replied, softening. “Just got my stuff from baggage claim. I’m going to let you go so I can call Andy.”

“Okay bug. See you in a few days.”

Harper had recently started calling me that, forgetting my real name and not caring enough to ask for it. Eloise had tried to scold her for it, but I told her I did not mind it. It caught on with Cameron not too long after that, and soon the entire Park family had started using the little nickname. Jimin thought it was adorable from the beginning but had only started using it after our talk the other night.

I laughed, “I’m going to call you tonight.”

“Aw,” I knew he had that stupid smile on his face. “Miss me that much?”

“Someone needs to make sure you’re staying out of trouble,” I replied, a confident pep in my step I had not had in years. “But yes, I do miss you.”

There was a pregnant pause. 

“I miss you too.”

I could feel my heart melting. I was still getting used to our new dynamic. On most days we were strictly business, and were able to set aside the very large, very apparent elephant in the room. It was not until we had finished with work that those roles dropped, and we were able to just be us. 

Ever since my confession in the car Jimin spoke a hell of a lot more. Apparently, he had a hard time keeping his feelings to himself and chose to talk a little less in order to avoid a slip up. He wanted to give us both a little bit of time to get to know one another before springing his crush on me.

“Going soft, kid?” Playing things off with humor was Jimin’s thing, but it had slowly started to rub off on me. “It’s only two days.”

“I know,” He pouted. “Call your friend. It’s cold and you’ll get sick.”

“Hey,” I cut the teasing tone I had, “You’re not upset I came here by myself, right?”

“No,” He chuckled with an unmistakable fondness. “I’m just messin’ with you. I’m not ready to meet your friends and you need some alone time. We’re good, I promise.”

I sighed in relief, “Okay. Good. I’m going to go now. Talk to you later?”

“Call me when you can,” He replied, voice light.

“Okay, bye.”

“Bye, bug.”

I was disappointed to hear the line go dead but knew I could aimlessly walk around this airport all day if given the chance, so long as he was there with me. Trying to get my thoughts back on track, I sent a text to Andy asking if she was here yet. If not, I was already making plans to call Jimin back.

Andy: I’m parked in 5 near C Gates

Andy: Be careful

Andy: Saw a lady almost get hit by a car just now

Me: See you in a sec

Me: Should I be worried?

I knew she was trying to make a joke, but car accident punchlines never went over all that well with me. Even if I knew the chances of that happening to me were almost zero, I really did not want to have a panic attack in the airport parking lot. 

Andy: Not at all. I’m so sorry for even saying anything. I can come meet you at the doors if you want.

Deep breath. In. Out. In. Out. Deep breath. In. Out. In. Out. Sigh of relief. I was fine. 

Me: I appreciate you

Me: Is babygirl here?

Dani would help the spike of anxiety dissipate. The girl was fearless and was sure to be distracting enough to keep me from paying attention to the oncoming traffic. I suddenly wished that Jimin was here. He always knew what to do.

Andy: Jin and I are weak

Andy: We let her play hooky

Bobbing and weaving through bodies, I tossed my phone into my purse and made my way out of the airport. The arrivals station was packed, and I would need to take the automated train to where Andrea was parked. It was my least favorite part about this airport, but it beat Dallas-Fort Worth by a landslide. I had gotten lost in that airport more times than I could count. 

Three minutes later I was getting out of the train and stepping into C Gates. I could smell Auntie Anne’s and felt my mouth begin to water. Checking my clock, I decided it would not hurt to make a quick spot for lunch. Andy would appreciate it and I knew Dani loved their pretzel dog. 

There was a little less traffic in C Gates. More of the expensive airlines let out here, and all you could see were business professionals pacing back and forth. A family on vacation bumped into me while I was waiting in line, and I almost gave up my spot when their toddler started screaming. 

“No, no,” His mother insisted, her hair a mess on the top of her head. “Between the girls and my mom, we’ll be here all day. Go ahead, sweetie.”

Two little girls danced around me as we waited, the line moving at a snail's pace due to the airport being understaffed. They asked me questions incessantly, and while their mother had tried her best to keep them in line, I told her I was fine with the extra attention. I loved kids and the girls were harmless. The boy in her arms kept repeating “pizza” and soon an elderly woman joined them. 

If the girls talked a lot, they had nothing on grandma. Not only did she never shut her mouth, she was loud and obnoxiously laughing every few seconds. The boy was quick to beg to be in her arms and mom got a break. She was back to attempting to corral the girls, but again they did not really listen. 

“They’re only like this when my mom’s around,” She sighed, frustrated and tired. “We’re meeting up with their father and they’re all a little restless.”

“It’s no bother,” I lied. The girls really were not that bad. Just a couple of four-year-olds having fun. The only person who was really getting on my nerves was her mother, but I was not about to say that. “Better to get it out now than in the car, right?”

She cracked a tired smile, “Right.”

Finally, it was my turn to order. The young girl behind the counter gave me an award-winning smile while another young blonde was in the back getting all of the orders out.

“Hi, welcome to Auntie Anne’s. How can I help you today?”

“Can I get one original pretzel, one cinnamon sugar pretzel, and a pretzel dog combo with a lemonade and cheese,” Glancing behind me, I sighed. “Throw in a pizza pretzel, two orders of pretzel nuggets, and whatever else the family behind me wants.”

She smiled, blue eyes twinkling prettily in the bright lights. Turning around I waved the mother over and told her to get something for her and her mother. She put up a small fight, but eventually gave in when she realized I had already put our orders together.

“Thank you so much,” I thought she might burst into tears when my card was approved. “You really didn’t need to do that.”

I shrugged, “It was nothing. Have a nice vacation.”

Walking to the pickup area, my order was already waiting for me. With nothing more than a simple wave, I left the dysfunctional family behind. The grandmother’s loud thank you seemed to echo off of the airport walls, but it was a little less grating now that I knew I would never hear it again. 

Andy threw herself at me when I finally made it outside, little Dani wrapping her arms around my legs with squeals of delight louder than her mother’s. Taking her pretzel, Andy gave me a fat, wet kiss on the cheek and told Dani she could eat in the car. 

“How’s gymnastics, girlie?” I asked the little girl once we were in the car. “Still kicking ass?”

“No,” She laughed. “I quit, like, forever ago. Appa put me in ballet classes.”

I gave Andy a look. The red head rolled her eyes, fixing me with a knowing look. I had been telling Jin to put her in dance for years.

“It’s been two weeks and she’s already trying to talk him into figure skating.”

“You’re a little hustler, huh?” I reached into the back, squeezing her knee. Dani giggled, angling her body away from mine. She was very ticklish. “Keep at it. You know your dad’s a sucker.”

Dani laughed, “My vovó says the same thing.”

We listened to Olivia Rodrigo on our way to the Kim house. Hoseok and Matilda had planned a huge coming back party for me, and from what it sounded like, I was going to meet Tilly’s new boyfriend. 

“Anything I need to know about Max?” I asked.

Andy was almost as in the dark about the guy as I was but was able to tell me he was a tattoo artist from California. The two of them met at Frank’s bookstore and by the end of their conversation Max had managed to get her out to dinner and in his bed. It was a whirlwind romance, one that made me feel uneasy about its foundation, but I was still obligated to be happy for my friend. They could be soulmates for all I knew, and I was not about to judge anybody else for their version of a first date.

“I don’t want to talk about tattoo guy anymore,” Andy whined playfully, turning up the radio when “Good 4 U” came on. “I need to know more about your little boyfriend.”

I groaned, “He’s not my boyfriend.”

This was why I was so adamant Jimin stayed away. We had yet to have a real talk about what we were, choosing to wait for our first date to iron out those details, but no one in my circle seemed to understand. All they heard was the word date and suddenly wedding bells started going off. 

“Stop deflecting. We both know he’s your boyfriend, official or not,” She laughed, stealing looks at her daughter in the rearview. “What’s he like?”

It was a hard question to answer. On the one hand, I felt like I knew him better than anybody else, but I was self aware enough to know I didn’t. His body language, the way he looked when he beat his best time, and all of his preferred gear were seared into my mind. The movies he liked, his favorite albums, and all of the best tv shows ever made. He went to college. He was the sweetest, kindest, most understanding person I had ever met, and yet… he still felt far away. The shadows that oftentimes clouded his vision were still a mystery to me, and when he came into practice with a lost look on his face, I felt helpless. I knew him and yet I didn’t.

“He’s quiet,” I finally landed on. “Very nice. Always willing to help other people out if he can. You’d like him.”

Andrea scoffed, “That’s it? The first guy you’ve dated in years and all you can tell me is I’d like him?”

“We’re still getting to know each other,” I sighed. “What do you want to know?”

We spent the rest of the car ride going over the last two months' worth of pining. I told her about Fiona, Jimin’s family, and all of my new friends. She almost pissed herself laughing when I told her about the night he asked me out, making so many Hoseok and Tilly jokes I had a difficult time focusing on the story. Andrea seemed to be finished with her interrogation when we pulled up at her house. 

Dani ran to the front door, her excitement about the party making any discomfort I had disappear. It was hard to feel uncomfortable with her around. Taking my hand in hers, the little girl shifted her weight from foot to foot, shouting at her mom to hurry up, and opening the front door anyway. Andy told her to calm down, and I just chuckled and went along with it.

The living room was filled with all of my favorite people, a large ‘welcome home’ sign hanging on the large, backwall. Underneath it was a huge table covered in food, a cake in the middle of it, and I had a feeling Sarah made it. Both her and Frank were the first people to notice me, their faces lighting up, and I let go of Dani’s hand in favor of embracing the elderly couple. The rest of the party comers erupted their voices loud and filled with love as they took turns passing me around. 

“Missed you, Otter,” Hoseok murmured in the crook of my neck, hands secured around my waist.

“Missed you more,” I replied, releasing him and catching Tilly. “Jeez, girl. Trying to kill me?”

“Come meet Max,” She replied, dragging me away from Hoseok.

Max was a tall, lanky guy with black hair that fell down his back. His clothes were on the baggier side, all black, and I recognized the band on his t-shirt from the shit Matilda liked to listen to in the car. He smiled at me, and I was surprised to see him rocking adult braces. He introduced himself, his voice deep and warm, and shook my hand. They were baby soft and covered in tattoos. 

“It’s great to see you,” I replied, genuinely meaning it. If I had to picture a guy more perfect for Tilly, I would come up empty handed. “Thanks for coming.”

He flushed, impossibly pale skin turning a bright shade of red reminding me of Jimin. 

“Anything for Mattie,” He replied.

Huh, he had his own nickname for her and everything. I would need to hang out with Max more before I could say if I liked him or not, but so far, I had a good feeling. Andrea’s worries seemed a bit silly now. They really liked each other, and Tilly’s heartbreaking, dimpled smile made me feel more confident in her partner. They would be just fine. 

The party was fun, and I ate more spinach and artichoke dip than was healthy. Hoseok and I talked about my afterschool visit tomorrow. The boys had a swim meet Saturday and the two of us were hoping we could tag team in order to iron out any issues they had been having. I was being placed in charge of the freshmen while Hoseok made sure the other kids were feeling confident and ready for the meet.

"Let's party!" Frank boomed, lifting a beer into the air.

I laughed, "Be careful, old timer. Don't want you to hurt yourself."

I thought of Jimin again. That sounded like something he would say. Surrounded by the people I loved, I laughed hard and partied harder. The plates of food came one right after the other, and I was happy that I still had a place here. Falling back into my step, I fit seamlessly back into the fold.

"Dance with me," Hoseok demanded, tipsy and red-faced.

"It's your toes," I replied, taking his head and letting him take the lead.

The other couples were already dancing and hooped and hollered as I awkwardly followed the steps. I was not always a bad dancer but lost some of my rhythm in the accident. Hoseok never minded and let me step on his feet without a single complaint.

"You look happy," He commented, spinning me around.

I smiled, "I am."

He smiled back, wincing when I stomped down on his toes again. I apologized, but he just held my hand a little tighter and kept moving. I hummed along to the song, filled with joy. He spun me again, and finally let me go when I slammed into Jin.

"Go get some cake or something," He laughed. "You're too dangerous to be out here."

I rolled my eyes, "I tried to tell you. It's your fault you don't listen."

"Don't need you anyway. I have enough swag for the both of us."

I watched, thoroughly amused from the sidelines, as he moon-walked around the living room.

I left just before midnight after staying behind to help Andy and Jin clean up. The others left a few hours before to get back to Denver at a decent time. My house looked the same as always, dark and empty, but I could tell the landscapers had been around. The grass was recently cut and edged.

The silence inside was deafening. I had always known my place was too big for one person, but after spending so much time in my little she-shed at the Andersons’ house, everything here just felt excessive. Tossing my keys in the bowl beside the door, I wiped my eyes and decided to just head to bed. I would only be here for three days. I would be back in Saline before I knew it.

Dragging my body upstairs, this sudden depression-filled fatigue made my shoulders feel ten times heavier. A chilling, almost insidious, hollowness began to spread across my body. I knew this feeling all too well and it made me feel pathetic. Could I not be on my own anymore? Had I really grown that attached to my life in Michigan? Finally getting into my bedroom, I realized that I had.

Saline was perfect. Living in Colorado Springs has always bothered me. The people here held more traditional values and making friends was difficult. I had Andy and Jin, but they were both very busy people. Andrea was a full-time nurse, Jin’s schedule was somehow even more erratic than his wife’s, and when they were off, they wanted to spend time with Dani. I was lucky if I saw them once every two weeks. 

Hoseok, Tilly, and Minho all lived in Denver, and while I saw them more often due to the meetings with Frank and Sarah dragging me into the city, it was not like we hung out every time I was out there. Days would go by with me speaking at all, and most of my weekends were spent in bed sleeping. Working at the school helped, but I would never claim anyone from the swim team to be a friend. I was not in the habit of befriending children.

Living in Saline was different. Jimin was always there to make me laugh, and when he wasn’t, I had people like Taehyung and Sam to keep me company. Giselle was young, but we got along so well I often forgot about the difference in age between the two of us. Megan and Yoongi were Michigan’s own version of Andy and Jin, and I could see myself becoming good friends with them given enough time. No one had kids, no one was too busy trying to keep up with crazy expenses, and I could find a little house away from the rest of the world to spend my life in.

I thought of the Parks, a family who I had come to love more than I thought was possible, and the Andersons who took me in and always tried to make me feel comfortable. Eloise and her kindness. Luna and Cameron. All of them. I loved and adored every single one of them, and it was then that I finally let myself really think about what I wanted.

Did I want to come back here after I was finished with the season? Did I really want this massive house if it meant I had no one to share it with? No, I decided. Stripping out of my clothes, the numbness was being replaced with a different strange feeling. It felt suspiciously like hope. Excitement came to me so rarely it was foreign and odd, but nice all the same. Jittery, I took my phone out of my pants pocket.

“Hello?” Jimin’s voice was scratchy when he finally picked up.

“Sorry,” I muttered. “Did I wake you up?”

“Yes, but it’s okay,” I could hear him shuffling around in his bed. “Did you have fun?”

“Yeah,” I breathed, climbing into bed. Then, without thinking, I blurted, “I think I want to move to Michigan.”

I held my breath as I waited for his response. There was no telling how this conversation would go, but I was hopeful. Even if this whole date thing did not go very well, I was positive that we would be able to move past it with a little bit of time. We worked well together and if he was comfortable with it then we could continue working together. Regardless, there was always coaching at a school.

“Like, permanently?”

I nodded but after a moment of silence remembered he could not see me.

“Yeah.”

My stomach started to churn. As the silence on the other end began to stretch, the excitement I felt before faded. Even if I said Jimin and I could get past a potentially awkward break up of sorts, I would not pretend that the thought did not make me physically ill. We would never be the same if that happened. It would be something to think about if it came to pass before the Olympics was over.

“Did something happen?” He finally asked, and I could hear the genuine worry in his tone. “Are you okay?”

The fear shifted to hurt, irritation, and anger, making my eyebrows knit together.

“I’m fine,” I could not keep the bite from my voice. It was petty and wrong of me, but his insinuation that I was not in my right mind was insulting. It made me feel like a child. “Just- forget I said anything. I don’t know what I’m even talking about.”

“Don’t do that,” His steady calmness made me even angrier. “I’m only asking you because it came out of the blue, not because I’m not happy with the idea.”

Now I just felt silly. Here I was making these small revelations, waking him up from his sleep, and then getting snippy because he did not respond the way I had wanted him to. Ugh, I wasn’t even his girlfriend yet and I’m acting like Darcy. A shiver went down my spine. That was an insult above all others.

“I’m sorry,” I murmured, the attitude from a few seconds before gone as quickly as it came. “I got defensive for no reason. Sorry.”

He chuckled, the sound barely audible over the phone.

“I forgive you. Now, why do you want to pack your life up for good?”

That made me laugh. It was a sad, pitiful sound. One that did not hold my usual spunk. One I don’t think Jimin had ever heard before. It was impossible to feel sad when he was around.

“I forgot how quiet my house is,” I admitted softly. “I love my friends, but I think coming back just reminded me of how easily I was able to fall back into the routine of it all. Jin and Andy are parents, Tilly has a new boyfriend, and Hoseok and Minho are always so busy with their own lives that I don’t see any of them as often as I would like to.”

Turning on my side, I blinked back a few tears.

“It might sound stupid, but I really do love Saline. I like how busy I am and all of my friends. I bought this place with the hopes of kids and a dog one day, but I don’t think that’ll ever happen, and now it’s just rooms collecting dust. I just-” I let a tear fall, my emotions starting to bubble over. “I don’t like how lonely it feels out here.”

“Doesn’t sound like you like it there. Have you always felt like this?” He asked.

I shook my head, the tears free falling in between sniffles and shaky breaths.

“Not always. Ever since Namjoon died things have been weird. There was a point when I felt suffocated because no one would leave me alone, and then one day everything resumed, and I just got left behind. It was like I woke up and two years just passed me by.”

Jimin comforted me while I cried, telling me how much he hated to hear me so upset, while I worked on calming down. There had been a time in my life when I was not so emotional, but therapy had opened up a whole new side of myself I didn't know existed. Rubbing my face, I sniffled and sank deeper into my mattress. For now, the waterworks had stopped.

“You were recovering,” He soothed. “Your body needed time to heal, and you were traumatized. I don’t think anyone can blame you for zoning out for a bit.”

I hummed, “I know. Doesn’t make it easier to swallow.”

“I know how you feel. When I pulled out of the Olympics last time there was a part of me that felt like a huge failure, but my dad was there to help get my head back on straight. He doesn’t seem like it, but he’s a really great shoulder to cry on.”

“That doesn’t surprise me,” My voice was like sandpaper. “James is the sweetest person I’ve ever met.”

I felt heavy. Worn. Used. My eyes begged for me to shut them, but we were just getting back into safer waters, and I didn’t want to burst the bubble. I yawned, covering my mouth and hoping Jimin could not hear the sound. He had gone quiet.

“Can I ask you something?” Jimin’s voice broke through the comfortable silence that had formed around us. “You don’t have to say anything.”

“Shoot,” I forced myself to smile.

“What happened to Namjoon?”

I closed my eyes. This was something I knew would come up sooner or later. My lip wobbled uncontrollably as the second wave of tears crashed over me. I hated talking about this, but I knew it was going to come up sooner or later. Jimin deserved the truth, and honestly, I wanted to tell him. Being vulnerable with someone felt good. Being vulnerable with Jimin was divine. He was always so ready and willing to go along with things, listening and watching my every move, and trying his best to understand me. It was refreshing. It was nice. It was familiar.

“Was he in the accident with you?” He asked and his voice was so, so gentle. 

“Yeah,” I croaked, finally finding my voice. “I went out with some of my friends and got pretty drunk. I was tired and ready to go home, but my ride didn’t want to go home yet. So, I called Joon.”

I sucked in a deep, loud breath. Jimin told me I could stop, that I didn’t owe him anything, but I ignored him. This wasn’t about owing him. This was about letting the guy I liked get to know me. This story was a part of who I was, as fucked up as that may sound, and I wanted him to get to know this facet of my life as deeply as he knew the present day one. 

“Anyway,” I continued. “He offered to come and pick me up. Twenty minutes later I’m getting into his car and we’re on our way home. We’d just gotten engaged and bought our first house together- things were perfect. I had never been happier.

“We ended up taking the long way home because of an accident on the interstate. It was my idea, and Namjoon had a knack for going along with whatever I wanted. We were only two minutes away from the house when we got hit.”

I took a few deep breaths and wiped my face. Jimin was quiet on the other end. After a minute or two, I jumped back into the story.

“There was a four-way intersection around the corner from our place. Our light was green when we drove up. I don't think he thought to check if there was another car coming. He never even saw the truck. He, uh, died on impact.”

“Jesus,” Jimin breathed.

“The other guy was drunk as hell behind the wheel. Not paying attention. Funny thing is, he was the only person who didn’t get critically injured. Just a broken arm and a concussion. He wrapped our car around a light pole. My leg was pinned between the car and the light, and the airbag is what caused the brain injury.”

Jimin cursed under his breath, “I’m so sorry. I’m so, so sorry that happened to you.”

“Yeah,” I gritted out. “Me too.”

He let me cry for a little while, saying over and over again how sorry he was and how he wished he was in Colorado with me. I did not have anything to say to him. It felt like my chest had been ripped open and my heart was on full display. 

I never questioned how quickly we went from barely talking, to joking around, to sitting up late at night on the phone talking about life. It just happened. Clutching my phone in my hand, I let out a deep breath and held back any more tears from falling. I never said it, but I wished he was here, too.

“Hey,” His voice was gentle when he spoke, so fragile and sweet, that I had to force down the sobs threatening to come out. “I just want to say I’m sorry for how I reacted earlier. You wanting to move here is probably the best thing I’ve heard all fucking year, but I just didn’t want to sway your decision.”

Sniffling, I tried to tell him I wasn’t upset, but he shut me down almost immediately.

“Let me finish,” His voice did not leave room for argument. “I know I don’t act like I’m insecure, but I am. I can be selfish and self-centered, and I’ve always had to really work on those parts of myself.”

“I don’t understand what that has to do with anything,” I mumbled, curling into a ball beneath my blankets. 

“Like I said, I can be a very selfish person,” He sighed. “There was this part of my brain just wanting to hear you say you were coming here and staying with me for forever. I didn’t want that to take over the narrative. And- no offense, but if you did move all the way out here just to date me, I think I’d be a little creeped out honestly.”

I snorted. Hearing that he felt the need to explain any of that to me felt like a small win, even if it did make an alarm go off in my head. It took courage to be that open and honest with another person, especially someone who just cried their eyes out. His compassion and understanding never failed to amaze me, and I was grateful he trusted me enough to let me into his mind for once. Still, it did not make the creep comment any less funny.

“Don’t laugh,” He whined, unable to stop himself from chuckling. “I’m being serious.”

“So do you want me to be a creepy stalker or not?” I joked, hoping to lighten up the mood. “Make up your mind, kid.”

“I think I just want you to be yourself,” I melted. “That’s been working out just fine so far. I mean, if you are a creepy stalker, you managed to get me to like you.”

“Mission accomplished,” I breathed, still reeling from his sweet words. “You better watch out, 007. There’s a new spy in town.”

“So, I’m Bond and you’re Joe Goldburg?”

“Exactly,” My cheeks hurt from how much I was smiling. “Penn Badgley would be a decent James Bond. He was really great in Margin Call.”

I bit my lip, trying to suppress my smile.

“Holy shit, you actually watched it?”

Margin Call was one of Jimin's favorite movies from 2011. He kept a very large notebook filled with all of the movies he’s ever seen, along with ratings, and if he should ever watch them again. He went through it one day and came across the action film, rewatched it, and then spent most of the day talking my ear off about how great it is. 

“Someone I know was very passionate about it, and it managed to pique my curiosity.”

Jimin sighed, but I could not tell what emotion was behind it. Definitely was not anger or frustration. Not sadness either. 

 “What time are you getting back on Sunday?” He asked, and I could definitely hear the affectionate tone his voice had taken on.

“Um,” I thought about it for a moment. “Six, I think.”

“PM?” 

“Yeah,” I curled up under my blankets. It was beginning to get really cold inside, but I did not want to get up to turn the heat on. “I have to double check my flight times, but I know it’s somewhere around there. Why? What’s up?”

“I know we already made plans for next week, but I was thinking I could pick you up from the airport and we could go out.”

My face grew hot, “I don’t think I’ll be dressed for a date.”

“You always look great,” He assured me.

I laughed, nervous and embarrassed, “Thanks.”

We had originally planned our first date to be the weekend after I got back. Jimin was adamant about giving me an experience, and I had been more than happy to indulge him a little. He was just so cute when he got excited. We were running on a limited timeline right now, though, since he had an upcoming swimming fundraiser with Swim Across America in Allendale. The team was raising money for cancer research, and I was very excited to be there to show my support.

Moving the date up meant we would have less to do next weekend, unless Jimin still wanted to keep our plans in place, but it meant we could focus on the fundraiser instead of trying to juggle a date at the same time. 

“I hate to go, but I’m really tired,” Jimin yawned. Pulling my phone away from my ear I was startled by how late it was. “I’ll text you in the morning, okay?”

I apologized for keeping him up so late. “Promise I won’t do it again.”

He hummed, already beginning to fall asleep, “Don’t mind. You’re always welcome to bother me in the middle of the night.”

“Night Jimin,” I whispered, blood pumping.

“Night bug.”

There was one thing I missed about Colorado- how quickly the snow melted. Michigan was seeing more snow as each day went by, but here in the mountains they would not start seeing the worst of it until the spring. For the first time in a month, I was able to forgo my large, puffy jacket in favor of a long sleeve and jeans. Jimin found my excitement over this endearing, sending a slew of heart-eye emojis in response to the mirror photo I sent him.

It was almost the end of the day when I pulled into the high school parking lot. The entire front office erupted in excitement when I walked through the front doors, hugs and well wishes overwhelming me. Sandra, the receptionist, could have talked all day if I let her, and after signing in, I politely told them all I needed to meet up with Coach Jung. I lied about stopping by on my way out and only felt a little bad about it. They were way too much for me.

“They’re going to be so excited to see you,” Hoseok mumbled, a smile stretching across his face as loud teenage boys got closer and closer to the pool house. 

“I’m happy to see them, too,” I replied. “Should we wait until they change to make the grand reveal?”

He shook his head. “Would you rather hug now or when they’re in speedos.”

I shivered, disgusted by the mental image.

“Thanks for putting that in my head, you sick fuck.”

Choking on his spit, Hoseok bent over, laughing so hard he started to screech. His laughter reminded me of a ghost's wail and was contagious. We were both so wrapped up in our little bubble we did not notice the doors opening.

“Coach?”

Wiping my cheeks, I caught my breath and made eye contact with Jordan. Baby blue eyes widened while a large, dimple smile overtook his face. Behind him, Gabriel announced that I was here, and the room was filled with excitement. I was not much of a hugger, but I was happy to greet each boy with one. Gabriel hadn’t stopped speaking since catching sight of me and had a few accidental slip ups about how much he disliked Coach Jung.

Hoseok had alluded to that being their main issue right now. The boys were having a hard time adjusting to a new face and missed me dearly. To his credit, Hoseok admitted that he was still getting used to the coaching thing and made a couple mistakes his first few days here. He had made it a point to apologize to them for being a dick, but the teens hadn’t forgotten or forgiven him for his snappy attitude. Especially the two oldest.

“When are you coming back?” Marcus asked. 

I smiled sadly, “I’ll be out for the rest of the year.” The tall boy deflated, sending a nasty look Hoseok’s way. “But,” I was quick to fix my mistake, “I’m planning on making trips to assist Coach Jung throughout the year. I wanted to be here for your last meet, but something came up.”

That something had been Jimin’s birthday, and I was not going to risk missing his party.

Regardless, Marcus and the team were very happy to hear they would be seeing me. 

“I promise I’ll be here for graduation, too,” I added.

Gabriel offered to give me one of his tickets and I gratefully accepted the extended offer. We stood there and talked for at least fifteen minutes before I finally told them to get changed and into the water. Without protest, all twelve of them went to the locker room.

“You know,” Hoseok chuckled. “You're going to have to teach me how you manage to do that.”

“Cinnamon buns from Mountain Shadows,” I put on my whistle and grabbed my clipboard from my duffel bag. “They’ll be eating out of your hand in no time.”

The team was glowing. Jordan stood in the middle of the boys, a large smile on his face, as he praised them for giving the meet their best effort. Having another win under their belt, all of them were buzzing with excitement at a chance at nationals. They only needed to win three more competitions to qualify. 

For the first time since I arrived, the icy contempt they held for Hoseok seemed to thaw. It brought a smile to my face. If I did not come back next year, I had a feeling the boys would be getting along much better. 

“What’s for dinner?” Marcus asked, looking at me for an answer.

“Coach said something about burgers,” I replied, gesturing towards Hoseok. “You should ask him though. I could be wrong.”

Gabriel chimed in, “Yeah, we’re going to Bingo.”

My mouth watered. Bingo Burger was one of the best spots in town. Their fries were hot and crispy, and I loved their shakes. Mulling over my options for dinner, I always found myself stuck between the Gone Shroomin’ Burger and the Happy Hippie. For a vegan burger, that thing was really fucking good. Then again, a thick, juicy beef patty smothered in bacon, cheese, and mushrooms would hit the spot. Indecisive and bored, I fiddled around with my phone and somehow ended up texting Jimin.

Me: Gone Shroomin’ or Happy Hippie?

The noise on the bus was just in the background now and easy to tune out. Hoseok was laughing loudly with the freshmen while the two seniors were in a quiet conversation in the seat in front of me. Marcus and his girlfriend broke up recently. I stopped paying attention once my phone vibrated.

Jimin: No idea what that means

Jimin: Gone Shroomin I guess

I bit my lip, suppressing a smile.

Me: We’re going for celebration burgers

Me: The boys won and Hobi is treating them since we’re out in Pueblo and not getting back to the Springs until after dinner.

Jimin: Speaking of food… I was thinking we could get some BBQ on Sunday

“Y/N!” Hoseok called, making me look up from my phone. “Tell your boyfriend you’ll call him later.”

“We need you to be the tiebreaker,” Twig chirped.

“What for?” I sighed, glancing down at my screen.

Jimin: Have you been to Union Rec yet? It’s BBQ and a taqueria

Me: No but I’m always down for a burrito

“Do mermaids have gills?” Twig asked.

Fully pulled out of my phone, I flipped it around and gave the boys my undivided attention. 

“Of course not. They’re mammals, so it would be a blowhole.”

Hoseok clapped his hands, “Thank you! That’s exactly what I said.”

Sliding further down in the booth, I closed my eyes and drowned them out again. Colorado’s air was so dry and crisp I was having to get used to the altitude change. I missed how wet and cold Michigan was. Smiling to myself, I remembered how much I hated it when I first landed. So much has changed…

Shuffling, I made myself more comfortable. We were only thirty minutes out from the Springs now, and we would be at Bingos right on time for Hoseok’s reservations. Feeling myself growing tired, I sunk even further into the booth. Eyes heavy, I let them slip closed, and slept for the rest of the bus ride.

Standing in front of my bathroom mirror, I smoothed down my skirt for the millionth time. The gray sweater I had thrown on seemed too casual now that I was looking at myself, but I did not know what else to do. It was a laundry day, but when I went to put my clothes in the dryer it refused to turn on. Violet said they needed a new one anyway, but that did little to improve my mood. The pretty red dress I wanted to wear was soaking wet and hanging from the shower rod to dry. I played with the skin on my lip, willing the black and gray outfit to somehow look nicer. On the other side of the phone, Andy sighed.

“You look fine,” She insisted, running her hand through her auburn hair. “Do a cute hairstyle and put on a nice pair of earrings, and you’ll be golden.”

“You don’t think it’s too plain?” I had asked her this five times now, and each time I got that same reply. “I mean, do I look like I’m going to a funeral?”

“The guy has seen you in sweats and no makeup and still wanted to take you out. Do you honestly think he cares about the color of your outfit?”

She had a point. Finally deciding to cave in and give up on my obsession, I took her advice to do something with my hair. A few of the strands were beginning to look silver, and my sideburns were looking paler every day, but after Hoseok told me he was starting to see a few grays, I decided to leave them be. If we were both going to be silver foxes, I liked the idea of doing it together.

“Are you wearing heels?”

“No,” I shook my head. I picked my phone up and went to my bedroom to find a pair of earrings. “It’s too icy. Silver or gold?”

She thought about it for a second, her face scrunched up cutely. 

“Silver.”

I landed on some thick, gun-metal hoops. They matched the color of the sweater perfectly and did not take away from my face too much. I had spent too much time on looking this nice to have an accessory dominate. Andy was happy with my choice.

I had gotten back a little earlier than I originally thought I would, and asked Jimin if it was okay that I meant him at the restaurant out here instead of making him drive all the way to Detroit to pick me up. He had put up a bit of a fight about it but relented when I said I was hoping we could hang out at his house after dinner. I said I wanted to get myself home, but I was really trying to see how bad the drive was from his place to mine. The thought of spending more time in his space made me feel like a teenage girl.

“How’s ballet going?” I slipped on a pair of black tights. It was freezing outside, and I wanted to have as many layers on as possible. “Has Dani made any progress in getting her figure skating career started?”

Andrea laughed but said that her daughter was getting closer to her goal every day. Jin was weak and did anything the little girl wanted if he could. This was the only issue they were both bull-headed about. Jin wanted to teach her to be responsible and follow through on things, and Dani was tired of preparing for figure skating. She wanted to be on the ice and her dad was afraid of pushing her too far too young. I was most definitely a team Dani instigator, and it was a point of contention between Seokjin and I.

“What did you think of Max?”

I smiled. That boy was definitely a character. The gang and I had a nice dinner before I left Colorado, and Tilly brought along Mr. Tattoo guy. He was quiet and when he did talk, he always had something completely random and out of the blue to say. He fascinated me and when everyone started huddling in their own groups to chat, I turned most of my attention to the new guy. 

He was a sweetheart, and it was a nice change of pace getting to know him. He hated being called Peter (his first name), went to college for nuclear engineering, and became a tattoo artist on a whim. A buddy of his wanted a new piece, paid Max to draw it, and trusted the guy with a tattoo gun. He was an apprentice in San Francisco for three years before moving to Denver to open up his own shop. For all of his eccentricity, he was very successful and down to Earth.

“He’s good for her,” I finally replied, zipping up my Doc Martens, I checked the time. I would have to leave soon. “I’m just happy there’s no drama between her and Hobi.”

It had been a year since they officially broke up, but I knew they fell into bed with one another a handful of times since then. Hoseok and I had talked about their weird relationship on one too many drunken nights, the swimmer the only person able I liked enough to force a glass of whiskey down. Tilly knew that I knew and would vent to me sometimes. They loved each other, knew one another better than anybody else, and it was easy to fall back into each other since we were in the same circle.

 I doubted Andy knew anything about that, we tried our best to keep her out of the loop, but she always said that they still had lingering feelings. I hoped Hoseok was handling this news well. He seemed fine, happy even, so I just rolled with it. If he had a problem, I was sure I would have heard about it by now.

“Speaking of Hoseok,” The humorous tone in Andy’s voice caught my full attention. “Apparently, Jin saw him at The Rabbit Hole with some blonde girl before you got into town. He just remembered to tell me last night.”

This was news to me. Wracking my brain, I tried to figure out if he had brought up a date, or even a person he might be interested in, but nothing came up. Shrugging, I let it go. It was probably just some girl he picked up at the bar. Still, that would be an expensive date.

“He hasn’t told me anything about that,” I murmured.

“Might be why he’s not bothered by new boyfriend.”

I laughed, “Or it could be that they’ve moved on.”

“Oh, please,” She pulled a face, eyes rolling to the back of her head. “We all know that’s not true. At least, not until recently.”

“Regardless,” I sighed, grabbing my purse and walking out of the front door. “It’s none of our business. If they’re happy that’s all that matters.”

Andy raspberried, “Boo. I hate it when you’re all mature and adult-like.”

“And right,” I joked. “Don’t forget about that part.”

Locking up my little house, I made my way through the Anderson’s. Violet was watching the Golden Girls on the couch while Calvin was reading a book beside her. It was a sweet scene that made me smile. I wanted what they had. 

I gave them a smile and wave as I passed by. Violet returned it in full, her eyes kind and gentle, before going back to her show. Calvin put his book down and asked what time I was planning on coming back. He wanted to keep an eye out for my car.

“Around midnight,” I replied, moving my phone away from my mouth. Andrea was rambling about the new doctor on staff. I trusted her disdain enough to know he was a huge dick. “See you two tomorrow.”

“Be safe out there,” He replied, going back to his copy of The Catcher and the Rye.

Andy and I were on the phone for the entire car ride into Ann Arbor. I enjoyed hearing her voice, the small distraction welcome when I felt my anxiety spike. Thankfully it was a Sunday night, and the streets were somewhat empty.

Once I got into the downtown area, I drowned out her voice completely. Andrea never minded. She just kept talking like I hadn’t stepped out of whatever conversation we were just having. Never got mad when I kept asking her to repeat herself either. She was a wonderful friend to me, and I was grateful to have her in my life. If I moved to Saline, she would be the person I missed the most.

I still hadn’t talked to anyone else about the possibility of moving. I was not sure how they would react, and I needed to have my mind made up before giving any of them the news. While I knew Andy and Jin would be supportive, and Tilly and Minho wouldn’t really care all that much (it just gave them an excuse to vacation in Michigan), it was Hoseok I was most on the fence about.

With him it could go either way. He would either be really happy and supportive or call me crazy. It came from a place of love, and I respected his opinion more than any of the others, so I had to be completely sure of myself before getting into something like that with him. If he thought for a second I was rushing into things he would go into overprotective, big brother mode and kill all of my excitement. He might even be able to change my mind if he fought hard enough. 

Pulling up to the restaurant, I was impressed by the sheer size of it. One half looked like an old warehouse while the other half was a small, white bricked building. A red neon sign glowed in the night and a large party was hanging out outside of the building. I could see Jimin in their little group and smiled. He was a very popular man in this area and was able to make new friends wherever he went. If I had to guess, he knew someone and is now best friends with all of them.

“Hey, I just got to the restaurant. I’m going to let you go.”

“Okay, baby,” Andy replied. “Have fun. Talk to you later.”

“Text you when I get home,” I replied. 

Andy was as hypervigilant about getting texts as I was. She was on staff at the hospital when Namjoon and I first arrived. I can’t remember anything from that night after getting in Joon’s car, but when Jin and I spoke about it he said Andy was one of the nurses having to help triage me. She had to be physically pulled away from my body once the doctors found out about our connection, but the image of my body that night is burned into her mind. She was the person who took care of me the most upon release and quit her job at the hospital for a little while in order to make sure I was well taken care of. Calls and texts were just our thing now and I always felt horrible for being part of such a traumatic event for her.

“Love you,” She said.

“Love you too,” I replied, hanging up.

Getting out of my car, I locked the doors and made my way over to Jimin. He caught sight of me before I reached the small group and broke out into a huge, heart stopping smile. Unable to stop myself, I smiled back and waved awkwardly. He said something to the group before meeting me halfway. 

“Hey, you,” He said, wrapping his arms around me. “You look really pretty.”

I laughed nervously, squeezing his waist. “Thanks. I tried my best.”

Pulling away, I was able to admire him a bit better. He was wearing light jeans tonight, a rarity as he preferred sweatpants and slacks, and a black t-shirt. A leather jacket was a staple in his wardrobe, and he always said they kept him warm enough. I never believed him. As always, everything was a tight fit and showed off his body perfectly. 

“You don’t look too bad yourself,” I said once my appraisal was finished. “Nice boots. Where’d you get them?”

He looked down at the black, Chelsea boots and shrugged, “Nordstrom, I think. Taehyung got them for me a few Christmases ago.”

Of course he did.

“Let’s go inside. I’m cold.”

Jimin laughed, “My apologies, ma’am.”

The restaurant was packed, but Jimin had arrived thirty minutes early to get us on their waitlist, so I only had to wait five minutes for our table to be ready. Jimin brushed off the gesture as first date etiquette, but I knew better. The kid was late to everything and yet he got here early so I wouldn’t have to stand outside in the cold. It almost made me reach out and hold his hand, but my nerves got the best of me. We were at our table before I could gather up some courage, leaving a disappointed, bitter taste in my mouth.

“I’m feeling Disco Fries as an app. You?”

Searching the menu for them, I nodded. “That sounds really good.”

We were quiet for a few minutes as we decided on what we wanted. The menu here was rather large, filled with Mexican foods and copious BBQ items. Having never been here before I had no clue what was good and what hasn’t, but from how many people were here I had to assume nothing was bad.

“Know what you want?” Jimin asked, breaking the silence.

I shook my head, “No idea. What about you?”

“I get the same thing every time I come,” He laughed. “The Korean BBQ Burger is really fucking good. I also like the enchiladas.”

Finding both items, my mouth watered. Everything sounded amazing, but I wanted to get a little out of my comfort zone. I just had burgers yesterday, so I was not feeling that. Maybe BBQ? Looking at the options, I shook my head. I could not eat a half pound of anything. Biting the dry skin on my lips, my brain felt like it was working on overdrive. Too many options.

“Welcome to Union Rec,” I jumped a little, startled. “I’m Annie and I’ll be your server tonight.”

My eyes locked with a pair of baby blues, and I immediately recognized her. She was the brunette from the bar a couple of months ago. Eyes sliding from me, she landed on Jimin and the bored expression on her face morphed into one of pure bliss. I did not understand why she had given me that nasty look back then, but it was much clearer to me now. She had a thing for Jimin. Remembering she had a boyfriend, one she screamed at over the phone, it made me feel nauseous. Poor Tom.

“Oh my gosh, Christian. What are you doing here?” She asked, sneaking a look at me.

“Got a hot date,” He replied cheekily, gesturing his hand my way. “You remember Y/N, right?”

She gave me one of those tight-lipped, fake smiles. I returned the favor. I was not really jealous per say, Jimin’s declaration making any possibility of that disappear, but I did not appreciate anyone trying to make me feel small. I was a gold medalist. I was a fucking Olympian. Whoever the hell this chick thought she was, I would make sure she never thought for a second she got under my skin. 

“Yeah, we met at Brecon’s,” Annie replied, completely ignoring me. “Thought she was your coach.”

Jimin either did not catch the insult or he was choosing to ignore it. His smile was still just as pleasant as it was when we first sat down. I envied his ability to keep his emotions so controlled. I knew I must have been glaring at the poor girl.

“She is,” He shrugged. “Doesn’t mean she’s not my girlfriend. Are you taking our order or…?”

Annie spluttered for a second before regaining her composure. All affection in her eyes was gone and replaced by irritation. It was definitely directed at me, but Jimin’s dismissal must have stung. I was happy to be rid of her. Putting in our order for Disco fries, Jimin got a Sprite and Annie left before I could ask for a drink. Sipping on my complimentary water, I forced myself to breathe in and out. She was just a petty, annoyed girl with a crush. That was all. So, what if she was being rude? I was fine. Everything was fine. After the fifth sip, I actually believed it.

Trying to keep my tongue in check, I went back to looking through the menu. Finally able to make a choice, I decided on the birria beef ramen and closed the menu. Hopefully little miss Annie wouldn’t spit in it. Hot again, I took another long sip of water.

“Excuse me.”

Jimin flagged down another waiter, a pleasant smile on his face. Confused, I put down the glass and raised an eyebrow. He winked at me before laying the charm on thick. 

“Hey Marty. Would you mind if we got a different server?”

The young girl nodded frantically, “Of course. Is everything okay?”

Jimin smiled, eyes like crescents. “Everything is fine. Just Annie on her bullshit. Don’t want to get her fired by talking to your dad.”

Marty rolled her eyes, “Figures. I’ll tell her I’m taking care of you guys. Just don’t expect me to be running around for you, man. I have an entire section by myself.”

“I want privacy anyway,” Jimin replied, smirking at me. “Thanks. I’ll tip you well.”

She laughed, “Just make sure you put it in my hand. That bitch has been stealing tips. Cosette is trying to convince pops to fire her, but you know how he is about the girl.”

Jimin shook his head, “I already know. Can you get my girl a drink? Annie ran off without taking her order.”

Marty looked at me, her deadpan stare making me burst into laughter. Apparently, it wasn’t just me. That helped. 

“Sorry about her. She’s a massive bitch. What can I get you?”

I smiled, my mood a million times better, “Iced tea, please.”

“You got it, babe. You ready to order?”

Marty took our orders and promised to be back with my drink soon. 

“How do you two know each other?” I asked Jimin, finishing off my water.

“We were in the same class back in high school. Her mom owns that flower shop on Michigan Avenue.”

That was surprising. I was positive the girl was no older than eighteen. She reminded me of a porcelain doll, her chubby cheek and big eyes adding something angelic to her overall look. Then again, Jimin did not look all that old either. It was easy to forget he just turned 24. The age gap was really messing with my brain.

Annie was back with Jimin’s drink a few minutes later. She said nothing when she practically slammed his cup on the table before stalking off. It was then that I knew who she reminded me of. Darcy. I wondered if they were friends. Definitely had the same attitude problem, that was for sure.

“Ignore her,” Jimin told me once she was out of earshot. “I’ve been doing it since middle school.”

The rest of our dinner went back without a hitch. With Annie out of the way, and Marty’s small and infrequent check-in’s, we were able to be in a bubble of sorts. He asked about my trip back home and filled me in on what happened over the weekend. He had finally told his parents about our date and said that his mom thought it was a great idea. James called me perfect a few times, too. I had a hard time believing it, but Jimin had never lied to me before. It was nice to know the people around him accepted me even if I was a few years older.

“My mom’s 9 years older than my dad,” He revealed in between bites of food.

Shocked, I stopped eating all together. I had no idea they were that different in age. Ne-Yeon looked so youthful and pretty it was hard to guess just how old she actually was. Even fighting cancer, that woman did not look a day over 40. James was also in great shape for his age. To hear they had their own age gap made me feel a little bit better. 

“Wait,” Something else occurred to me. “Your mom was in her forties when she had you?”

Jimin nodded, “45. She had Haru at 48.”

It made sense to me now. To Jimin, our age gap was nothing special. It was smaller than his parents’, and having an older mother did not bother him at all. In his eyes, we had all of the time in the world for marriage and kids. A small weight came off of my shoulders. It really did not mean anything to him. He was not just saying that to make me feel better either. 

“Do you want dessert?” He asked, his plate empty in front of him. 

I was almost done with my bowl, “What do they have?”

He squinted his eyes, thinking.

“I know they have this horchata banana pudding. It’s literally the best dessert I’ve ever had in my life. There are a few other things, but I can’t remember what they are.”

I chuckled, “Then we’ll have the banana pudding.”

Jimin was not exaggerating either. The pudding was delicious. I almost wished we had each gotten our own serving, but after seeing the bill we were happy we hadn’t. Jimin paid this time. We had a back-and-forth deal when it came to meals. I got us breakfast last Wednesday, so he was picking up this bill. This was, unfortunately, much higher than Denny’s.

“I’ll put gas in your truck,” I offered on our way out. “To make up for the difference from Denny’s.”

He scoffed, “Don’t worry about it.”

“But-”

“We’re together now,” He interrupted me. “If I want to pay for a meal, then I will. You don’t have to pay me back.”

“We’ve always done that,” I argued.

“That was before,” He countered, walking me to my car door and opening it. “This is now. And right now, I’m trying to take a pretty girl, in a pretty dress, on a nice date. That includes paying for her meal.”

Getting into my seat, I pointed out that I let him do the gentleman thing all of the time. Opening my door for me, pulling chairs out at restaurants, and even walking on the curbside when we were out together. The list was endless. The least I could do was pay for half of a meal.

“I don’t do those things to get on your good side,” Jimin replied. “I do them because I want to. This isn’t transactional. So, stop worrying about being a burden. I enjoy taking care of you. You deserve to be taken care of.”

I could not think of a good enough comeback, so I just decided to drop it. If he wanted to pay for me then he could. It was his money to spend. 

“Send me your address.”

“You still want to come over?” He seemed surprised.

“Yeah,” I nodded, already pulling up the GPS. “What is it?”

He sounded like Charlie when he won the golden ticket as he gave me his address. 

“Don’t get too excited now,” I joked. “Just because I’m coming over doesn’t mean anything.”

Jimin laughed, “I pretend I don’t even know what sex is until after date three, so don’t worry about it.”

That made me laugh, “Get in your truck. I’ll meet you there.”

Looking back at him, I felt giddy. His eyes were so alight, his joy written so clearly across his face it took my breath away. A happy Jimin was the only kind I wanted to see. Blowing caution to the wind, I finally reached out. Touching his stomach, I felt the muscles clench beneath my fingers.

“Thank you,” I said earnestly.

“What for?” He rasped, placing one hand over mine, pressing my hand further into his skin. 

“For-” I broke off, taking my hand away. The feeling of him underneath me was too much. “For being so accommodating. I really appreciate it.”

He laughed, the sound strained and airy. I was too embarrassed by my actions to look at his face, but I could feel his eyes burning into the side of my eyes. Unlike me, Jimin was always brave. Hopefully some of that confidence would rub off on me. Maybe then I could reach out and hold him whenever I wanted to. 

“You’re welcome,” He replied, and my thighs clenched together at how rough he sounded. Did touching him do that? Or was it the praise? It could be both. “Drive safe, okay? You can follow me if that helps.”

I nodded, swallowing. The icy air outside did nothing to put out the blistering heat coursing between us right now. It was overwhelming how hot it was. Turning up my A/C, I pointed the vent directly at my face.

“See you in a few minutes,” I breathed, still unable to look at him.

Jimin closed my door, and I leaned back in my seat breathing heavily. I watched him as he rounded the front of my car, those pants sticking to his legs like a second skin and groaned. I had never felt this level of desire for anyone before. 

He reminded me so much of Namjoon. His beautiful brain and love for music and poetry so reminiscent it managed to bring me back to happier times. In the beginning I was afraid my attraction to him stemmed from that link. Because he reminded me of something I had loved so dearly that meant what I was beginning to feel was just a projection.

I was wrong. So unbelievably wrong. Jimin had a passion that Joon could never replicate. If Joon was a warm blanket, then Jimin was like the tide in the sea. On the surface it was calm, steady, and beautiful. Underneath that was life like nothing I had ever seen before. He was refreshing and filled with this fire for life that reminded me of my own from years ago.

Namjoon was perfect, a boy-next-door, and soft spoken. Back then I had enough of that passion for the both of us. Now I saw more and more parallels between us than ever before. I was uncertain, waiting for someone else to bring excitement back into my life, too afraid to reach out and take what I wanted anymore.

And then Jimin was there with that big smile willing to take me on whatever adventure I desired. All I had to do was ask. It was exhilarating, fun, and I was happy to be a part of the ride. His softness, his kindness, his understanding- all of it wrapped up in a pretty red bow. A gift that kept on giving.

I did not love Jimin, but I knew then that I could. With his sharp tongue and charisma, it was impossible not to. Everyone else did. Who was I to think I could be any different? I was a slave to his happiness. It was in that moment, sitting in my car, that I finally understood what was happening.

I was falling in love and there was nothing I could do to stop it.

Taglist: @ownthesunshine @screamertannie @lovelytaes-blog @pernesianparapio @tae-with-some-suga @sumzysworld @chimmisbae

© chimcess, 2024. Do not copy or repost without permission.

[btscontentenjoyer]

BTS Summer Fic Recs

Here are some summer fanfic recommendations if you need something to read on the beach, by the pool, or just in your room while you're trying to escape the heat! If you enjoy any of these stories, please don't forget to let the author know by reblogging and leaving feedback. Most of these stories contain smut or other mature themes so MINORS DNI!

kim namjoon

solace by @m-yg93 (13.5k) fluff/smut

[roommates to lovers]

summary: Namjoon thought getting used to a new roommate would take time and adaptation but you fit yourself into his apartment with ease. He swears he only landed in your bed to keep you safe in his arms when you get spooked by the storm. Surely he can blame the eventual lack of clothing on the summer’s heat stroke.

kim seokjin

all you’re giving me is friction by @hot-soop (28.3k) angst/smut/fluff

[surfer!seokjin x lifeguard!f.reader, lovers to enemies (lite) to lovers]

summary: You’ve graduated! Congratulations - you’ve got one thing checked off your parents ten year plan! Now all that’s left to do is start your dreary office job, drag yourself up the ladder to CEO, marry your (as yet unknown) dream guy, and carve out some time to pop out a few kids before your ovaries shrivel up… Except all of that sounds horrendous, and you’d much rather spend the next three months at Hoseok’s beach house with your closest friends - relaxing, partying, and sleeping late while you still can. And it would be your last perfect summer break, if it weren’t for the most irritating man on the planet (and his chickens) living next door.

min yoongi

the landlord by @ppersonna (4.3k) smut/light crack/pwp

[landlord!yoongi]

summary: your air conditioner breaks right at the height of a recordbreaking heat wave.  good thing your hot landlord, yoongi, knows how to attend to any needs you may have.

watermelon sugar by @yoonjinkooked (23k) smut/romcom

[strangers to lovers, vacation au]

summary: Travelling alone to your dream destination had sounded like a good idea at the time. And you don’t regret doing it, of course not - you’re in Greece! The food! The sun! The smell of the sea! The white walls and blue chairs, the hills, the warm days and colder nights. A little company wouldn’t hurt, though. That’s how you end up talking to Min Yoongi, your next door neighbour with whom you practically share a balcony. He’s quiet, he barely leaves his room but when you reach out, he doesn’t push you away. That’s how your Greek adventure begins.

jung hoseok

strawberry sundae by @youtifulhobi (6k) fluff

[lifeguard!hoseok x olympian swimmer!reader, meet cute]

summary: A few years after you begin dating Jung Hoseok, the two of you reminisce about how you met when he was a lifeguard and saved you from drowning, when in reality you had just fell off your strawberry floatie and he just wanted to talk to you.

a taste of paradise by @theharrowing (8k) light angst/smut

[strangers to lovers, chance encounters]

summary: A handsome stranger helps take your mind off of all of the drama that awaits you back home. It is bittersweet, isn’t it, how a chance encounter that makes you feel so good can also just leave you craving more.

park jimin

i need you tonight by @minisugakoobies (1.5k) smut/slight angst?

[pool boy!jimin]

summary: You’re tired of watching your evil stepmom waste your father’s money. So you steal one of her toys.

you dtf? by @sailoryooons (10.2k) smut/pwp

[strangers to one-night stand]

summary:  You’ve never had a one night stand. Jimin has had countless. You’re trying to experience new things. Jimin loves doing the same old shit. So when you meet the man going around the club inviting people to touch his ripped abs, you think perhaps this is the perfect opportunity to try new things. It’s Labor Day weekend at the shore - what can go wrong?

into the wilderness by @gukyi (27k) angst/fluff/comedy

[friends to lovers, camp counsellor au, unrequited love]

summary: alright, so last summer’s camp was… disastrous. from the murky green showers to the wasps nests, it was all-around a bad time. but none of those things could be quite as catastrophic as the end-of-camp counselor campfire, when you told park jimin that you were in love with him. and if telling him was terrible, then seeing him again this summer, one year after your fruitless confession, just might be the death of you.

kim taehyung

summer feelings by @jjkeverlast (558) fluff/crack

[childhood best friends to lovers]

summary: taehyung catches you off guard during your first trip to the beach.

himbo hours by @gimmethatagustd (7k) pwp/smut/humor

[himbo!taehyung x reader, strangers to lovers]

summary: Trouble always seems to follow Taehyung. An innocent night of finding new friends to share his alcohol, drugs, and boxy smiles quickly turns into a mess when he accidentally punches you, a poor, unsuspecting clubgoer, right in the face. Whoops!

trip by @daechwitatamic (22k) fluff

[friends to lovers, camping au]

summary: Your gigantic crush on Kim Taehyung is so bad that you drop whatever you’re holding every time he speaks to you. Your dirty liar of a best friend SWORE to you he wouldn’t be on this camping trip, but he is. Luckily, the trip gives Taehyung the chance to see you in a new light, admittedly with some help from his best friend (and definitely hired spy) Park Jimin.

jeon jungkook

in which sour and salt could be so sweet when jungkook’s existence reminds you that there is still good in the world. by @onlyswan (3.1k) fluff/a pinch of angst/suggestive

[established relationship]

baecation by @1kook (5.9k) smut

[richboy!jungkook, vacation au]

summary: “Lose the top, or lose the right to present yourself in any low back gown for the next three months.” He truly knew the way to your heart.

heartless by @here2bbtstrash (7.4k) pwp/smut

[exes hooking up]

summary: after a wild summer at the shore where he made more than a few mistakes, jungkook is ready to remind you why you always take him back.

no longer strangers by @soft4gguk (9.4k) fluff/smut

[jungkook x inexperienced!reader, strangers to lovers, summer love au]

at the end of the day by @starshapedkookie (13.3k) fluff/smut/a little angst

[ex-baseball player!jungkook, high school friends to lovers, beach/vacation au]

summary: You and Jungkook have been best friends for 8 years, going through absolute hell and back together. After senior year of high school, you and Jungkook began a tradition of taking annual vacations together during the summer months. This summer is no different, with you and Jungkook celebrating graduating college just a couple months prior. You're set to move to NYC after the summer, with you and Jungkook soaking in the sun and as many moments as you can together. You'd think nothing could ever tear your friendship apart with him, but when you've sat on the beach for too many days in a row watching him surf, you can't help but wonder - when did your best friend get so hot?

lemon sherbet by @extravaguk (15k) fluff/smut/angst

[tattoo artist!&piercing artist!jungkook x popular!reader, ex high school classmates, kinda frenemies to lovers, summer au]

summary: But above all things, the last thing you expected to happen when you came back was to show your tits and get pierced by none other than motherfucking Jeon Jungkook. Jeon Jungkook. Guk. Gukkie. Jeongukkie.

concrete king by @bratkook (16.7k) fluff/smut

[skaterboy!jungkook x reader, himbo energy]

summary: when a cute boy in a tacky hawaiian shirt lands a trick in your honor there’s no way you could ever say no to him

ex on the beach by @beahae (mini-series, 18.2k) fluff/light angst/smut

[exes to lovers]

summary: You and Jungkook broke up. But it would be very silly of you to let the fancy beach vacation you both won go to waste, right?

stars behind waves by @taegularities (22.7k) angst/fluff/smut

[estranged childhood best friends to lovers, beach/vacation au]

summary: With a decade’s distance between Jungkook and you, your paths cross on the same island you deemed your second home years ago. And you realise once again – the ocean can never compare to the twinkle in his starry eyes.

paddle with me by @yoongsgguktae (two-shot, 30k) angst/smut

[enemies to lovers, camp counsellor au]

summary: when your camp leader forces you and jeongguk as partners in a team building activity. with frustrations and anger flaring during your journey down the river, how will all this pent-up emotion get released?

Thank you so much for taking the time to check out my list! I read some of these stories while on vacation this year, and some have stayed with me for a while since I read them last summer. If anyone has more summery recommendations, I'd love to hear them, so don't be afraid to put them in the comments or send me an ask <3

[fruttolosope]

enemies to lovers sope au in which yoongi is the prince of the darkness and hoseok the prince of the light.

tags: angst, soulmates, fantasy, reborn.

warning/s: death ⚠️ (I have a thing for angst I am so sorry 🙂 you can yell at me)

It’s in the last battle between dark and light when they realize to be in love with each other, right after Yoongi st!abs Hoseok in the chest.

“it’s okay, I forgive you.” He says, smiling like nothing happens. “The truth is I liked you since the beginning of time.”

“Hoseok…” The Prince of the Darkness whispers, rejecting one more time his title.

That damn title.

If they weren’t born enemies by nature, everything would have been different.

“Hoseok..” He says once again, as if it was the cure he needed. Just like repeating gently his name and stroking his face could stop him from dy!ng.

How can he find the right words to say after what he did? How can he fix it this time?

it’s the twelfth time (and the twelfth life) in which one of them d!es. It’s always like that.

It’s their nature. They can’t exist both in the same time. It’s dark or it’s light.

There’s a legend saying that after the last w!ar, dark and light would have found the balance and the harmony to live together, sadly it was just a legend that the Queen of Light used to tell to Hoseok when he was a child.

“Dark and light are not meant to be together, son.” And then, there’s was Yoongi’s dad, King Of Dark and he believed him.

After their twelve lives, that’s the first time they were born again as Princes of their worlds and probably their last time too.

“Stay with me. You can’t go now. You won’t come back.” Yoongi says, but he knows there’s nothing to do.

When a sold!er from the light army stabs him in the shoulder, Yoongi doesn’t fight back. The victory of darkness doesn’t matter if there no Hoseok in his last life.

“I am sure that what my mom told me it’s true, about dark and light.” Hoseok says, too weak too realize Yoongi was dy!ng too.

Their first kiss happens with their last strengths, bleed!ng out into each other’s arms.

“If there’s another life, we will stay together, I promise you, Hoba.”

“I heard the thirteenth’s life is the right one.” He jokes, waiting for the inevitable. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” A promise of love is what they whisper to each other with their last breath.

[A life after]

Everything is going fine in Hoseok’s life. Good grades, lovely family and a future as professional swimmer. So why can’t he explain the feeling of having a hole in his heart?

He has almost finished his morning practice when he sees the new student entering in the pool.

A round shaped face, thin pink lips and a perfect body that immediately attracts his attention.

“You must be the new guy.” Hoseok says, smiling to the black haired boy just like they were old friends. “Jung Hoseok.”

“Min Yoongi.” He replies, taking his hand and showing a gentle smile.

“Welcome to the team, Yoongi.” Hoseok notices firstly his pretty brown eyes and then the scar on his shoulder. He says nothing, but somehow he feels the hole in his heart filling up.

Hoseok doesn’t know it yet, but his mom was right. The thirteenth life was really the right one.

[leavescrown]

Fandom: BTS

Pairing: Jikook

Rating: PG-13

Enjoying a picnic at the shore of a lake, Hoseok spots a swimmer who is just Jimin's type. Deciding to help Jimin get acquainted, Hoseok and Taehyung get to work.

[muniimyg]

Wait so hoseok is /THE/ bestie? 🥺 thats so cute :(( forehead kisses from hoseok pls 🥺

yessss jus a little! oc is pretty close with all of them but is spending more time with the swimmers as she distanced herself from yoongi and the other ballers. they’re completely platonic & truly will be each others comfort !!

[psycho-slytherin]

Rules

You need a name and a face to connect with your soulmate. What happens when you have both… and neither?

Pairing: Swimmer/Poet!Hoseok x Reader

Genre: Fluff I think?

Warnings: Swearing, poetry, wonderfully unsatisfying ending

WC: 2k

|mlist|

Based on a survey you guys took in which you chose a soulmate enemies-to-lovers au! Thanks to everyone that took the survey <3

[n/n = nickname]

REEEEEE! The blast of Coach Kim’s whistle sends adrenaline pumping through your veins and you dive off the edge of the pool, letting the cold water envelop you before you surface. Your legs are pressed together as you raise both arms simultaneously and let their force push you forward before kicking, kicking– arms, kick, kick, kick, arms, kick, kick, kick, arms, kick, kick, kick… you set a steady rhythm, sneaking a breath with every stroke, and your strong legs propel you to the end of the pool. Without missing a beat you duck, twist, and push off from the wall in the opposite direction, moving so quickly in the water you almost want to laugh.

Too soon, you reach the end of the pool once more, the slap of your hand on the cement signaling your coach to stop the timer.

“Fifty fly… nice! N/n, that’s 0.8 seconds off your best!”

“Yes!” you grin crazily, your heartbeat loud in your ears.

“Keep this up and you’ll be a shoe-in for regionals,” Coach Kim tells you. “Girls’ fly is gonna be one of the toughest races this season, but I think you’ve got the chops for it.”

“Thanks, Coach!” Even in the cold air of morning practice, your cheeks warm at the praise.

“Psh… girls’ fly is a fake competition,” Hobi, one of the guys on your team, says as he puts on his goggles. “Like whiffle ball. Or Ultimate Frisbee.”

“Put your money where your mouth is,” you fire back, hoisting yourself out of the pool. A bunch of the guys on your team are obnoxious, sure, but Hobi is a special breed of asshole.

“I’ll put something else where my mouth is,” he replies, winking.

You smile sweetly as you mime breaking his neck, and Hobi laughs. “Feisty today, aren’t you?”

“You know, Hobi, my favorite part of practice is when you’re under water.”

“Is that so?” “Mmhmm. ‘Cause I don’t have to listen to your voice, and I can entertain the prospect of you drowning.”

“Too bad for you– given that I’m a real swimmer, that’s not gonna happen anytime soon, is it?”

“I’m a real swimmer too, dickhead!”

“You haven’t proven that yet,” Hobi says with a smirk, and you open your mouth to fire back a scathing reply, but–

“Hobi! Chimmy! Yoongs! You’re up– anyone else want to try for the guys’ fifty free?”

You wrinkle your nose. You’re faster than Chimmy and Yoongs for sure, and to always separate by gender is a constant thorn in your side. You want to race against the best in the league, not just the best girls.

Bored, you watch the guys jump into the water, separated in three lanes. You hate ranking day, when just before a match Coach Kim races swimmers to decide who’s the best in each category. It only means you spend most of your time outside the pool, and at six in the morning such a setting is really not ideal.

“On my mark– if I see any of you grabbing the lane line, you’re out of the water for the rest of practice– Go!”

Immediately the three boys push off the wall– Hobi easily outpaces the other two, his strong scissor kicks splashing you as he passes.

“Hey!” That had better not have been intentional. You can see Hobi’s strong back muscles working as he turns his head to breathe.

Why do literally the worst people have the nicest bodies? You’re pretty sure that’s not fair. Asshole that he is, you can’t help but stare at Hobi when he swims backstroke– unlike his personality, his abs are nothing to laugh at.

“Well done, guys!” Coach Kim says enthusiastically when all three finish their lap. “Hobi, you sheared 0.3 seconds off your best– at this rate, you’re gonna be number one in the league. Yoongs, Chimmy, you’re brilliant endurance swimmers– work on your speed, okay? Keep it up.”

“Yes, Coach!”

“That’s ranking done for today,” Coach Kim says, glancing around. “The match is next week, so here’s what I’m thinking so far. Girls’ fifty fly, n/n. Boys’ fifty free, Hobi. Girls’ two hundred free–”

You tune him out as soon as you hear your nickname. Yes!

“Now to celebrate– one thousand meters’ cooldown. Your choice of stroke.”

The team collectively groans and you join in– a forty-lap cooldown? Well, you’ve had worse. You jump into the water and start moving to stay warm, choosing to swim breaststroke for the sake of going easy on your poor level of endurance. Even with the flurry of movement around you, you feel calm, collected, peaceful. The feeling of the water surrounding and caressing you is mesmerizing, and to your empty mind suddenly springs–

Awash in beauty, the tears of the Earth Fall upon the faraway stars in vain A weakened heart celebrates its weak birth The twins from days of old cry out for rain.

You grin underwater– with the goggles and swim cap, you surely look rather alien, but you don’t care. That’s a good stanza; you’ll have to remember it so you can share it with the others.

“N/n! N/n!” Yoongs calls out as you leave the girls’ locker room after practice. Coach Kim is standing nearby, talking to some parents.

“Hey– what’s up?”

“Do you…” Yoongs looks down, his pale cheeks reddening. “Do you wanna share names?”

Your eyes widen and your gaze darts to the coach. “We can’t– you know that. It’s against the rules. Coach doesn’t want distractions.”

“I-I know, but…”

You smile sadly. “I don’t think we’re soulmates, and the coach said no names. Sorry.”

“Yeah. I understand,” Yoongs says, eyes downcast. “Well, see you tomorrow.” “See ya.”

“Rejected,” you hear a sudden cackle behind you, and you jump.

“Jesus!”

“Aww, did I scare you?” Hobi asks with a fake pouty face.

“Yes– you’re wearing some sort of horrible mask.” You make a show of poking his cheek.

“Very funny. Was Yoongs asking to share names?”

“Why do you care?” you ask, affronted.

“Just the fact that he has to ask– what, you think it’s fine to require nicknames?”

“For sports?” You roll your eyes. “Of course. What if you were about to race and you found out your opponent was your soulmate?”

“But what if our soulmates were on our team?” Hobi steps closer. “What would you do if you found out I was your soulmate?”

“I’d dropkick you off the nearest diving board,” you inform him dryly. “Now leave me alone, cause I’m mighty tempted to make that a reality.”

“Fuck you too, n/n.”

You blow him your most sarcastic kiss before turning around, making sure to step on his foot on your way. You’re wearing flip-flops, so the only effect is your own increased satisfaction. You want to go home, write down that stanza, and talk to your friends.

In a world where soulmates need each others’ names and faces to connect, it’s stylish to walk around with a name tag in the hopes you might catch your soulmate’s eye. You’ve never adhered to that practice, instead retreating to the last anonymous corner of society– the Internet.

Plopping down, you open your laptop and log into the chat.

*its-shakespeare-bitch has joined Poetry isn’t a kink* @its-shakespeare-bitch: guys guyssss i thought of a good stanza *RhythM24 has joined Poetry isn’t a kink* @RhythM24: are you still in your iambic pentameter phase? @its-shakespeare-bitch: It’s a good phase :( *shininonasgard has joined Poetry isn’t a kink* *alittlealliteration has joined Poetry isn’t a kink* @shininonasgard: namjoon shush y/n’s sonnets are really good @its-shakespeare-bitch: tHAnK yOu hoseok @shininonasgard: <3 @alittlealliteration: ok but I logged on for poetry discourse not y/n and Hoseok flirting again @its-shakespeare-bitch: hahahaha I’ll kill you hahahaha *shininonasgard has invited you to Hoseok and y/n’s private chat* *its-shakespeare-bitch has joined Hoseok and y/n’s private chat* @shininonasguard: Taehyung’s just jealous ;) @its-shakespeare-bitch: of what, my wit and charm? @shininonasguard: yep @its-shakespeare-bitch: lol I was being sarcastic @shininonasguard: I wasn’t. @its-shakespeare-bitch: omg shut up before I actually fall in love with you @shininonasguard: don’t tempt me~ @its-shakespeare-bitch: gross, now I’m feeling emotions @shininonasguard: art thou not an artist? Use these emotions, y/n, channel your inner muse! @its-shakespeare-bitch: you just want me to write you a poem smh you’re a poet too yknow @shininonasguard: I like ur poems tho :)))))) @its-shakespeare-bitch: dork now I’m smiling how dare you @shininonasguard: Wish I could see your real smile You inhale sharply. You’ve been part of this chat, with the same nerds, for two years– despite having never met face to face, they’re your closest friends. You even revealed your whole names to each other– but faces? That’s different. As much as you’d like to meet them in real life, as much as you’d like to look Hoseok in the eye when you read him something you’ve written…

@its-shakespeare-bitch: I know @its-shakespeare-bitch: and I wish I could see u too, but we promised we’d keep this chat free of soulmate frenzy. Since we know each others’ names @shininonasguard: yeah ik

@shininonasguard: Doesn’t keep me from imagining u tho. I bet you’re really pretty

@its-shakespeare-bitch: as pretty as poe was positive

@shininonasguard: Shushhh I know you’re pretty. You have a pretty soul and pretty words and that’s all I need to call you pretty

@its-shakespeare-bitch: charmer

What you don’t say is that on reading his words, your cheeks go bright red and you start smiling like crazy. This guy just does things to you– his manner of speech is far from simplistic, and he has a beautiful way of writing his verses straight from the heart. Between the two of you, in fact, you’d call his soul the pretty one.

@shininonasguard: hey I gotta go help my mom ttyl?

@its-shakespeare-bitch: sure, mama’s boy~

@shininonasguard: I consider that a compliment

@its-shakespeare-bitch: I meant it as one <3

@shininonasguard: jfc you’re literally perfect I am so goddamn lucky

@its-shakespeare-bitch: lmao go help your mom, Hoseok. ttyl

@shininonasguard: bye, y/n (^3^)

*shininonasgard has left Hoseok and y/n’s private chat*

*its-shakespeare-bitch has left Hoseok and y/n’s private chat* You sit back and sigh, hiding a smile. He’s so cute, he’s so cute, he’s so cute. Why does he have to be so cute? It sucks cause it’s not like he’s your soulmate anyways, so there’s no point in falling for him, but he makes that hard because he’s so. Damn. Cute.

When you fall asleep that night, you’re fatigued but happy. You’re representing your team in your best category, you entered a poetry competition with a piece that you feel really good about, and Hoseok is so wonderful to talk to… yeah. Save for one particular dumbass on swim team, you’re feeling pretty damn good about life.

[smile-jjk]

code of conduct by 1995soulmates ଘ(੭*ˊᵕˋ)੭*

somewhere between the first day of summer and the last, jeongguk teaches namjoon how to swim, and namjoon teaches jeongguk how to keep a secret.

[how-you-dare]

Hoseok/J-Hope (Holy Cow, Hobi!)

BTS In The Soop S2 Preview Photos

[ggukkiereads]

"...everybody deserves something to be passionate about"

🌷🌷🌷 I just love this Hoseok. I go crazy when he is so written so well I can clearly visualize him and his reactions. He's driven, detailed, and passionate about what he loves. Ugh the writer did not go wrong with Hoseok doing laps and being intense about swimming.

I think this quality of his slightly pushed the enemies to lovers scenario between them. I love a good E2L fic and this delivered through bad first impressions and death stares across the pool. It was just funny to me how infuriating Hoseok was when he assumed she's interested in him 😅. But it became more tense between them with all this 'almost kissing but not quite' scenes. Really great build up and I love the supporting characters too ❤️. What a lovely fic with a memorable Hoseok too 👏.

not interested (m)

⇒pairing: hoseok x reader

⇒genre: enemies to lovers | explicit smut, fluff, angst

⇒length: 20k

⇒summary: nobody has ever succeeded at swooping you off your feet. that is until you become coach assistant for your college’s swim team and maybe then, you learn everybody deserves a chance at love.

a/n: i promise my next fic WONT be a college enemies to lovers au lmao its just so fun to do. i gotta thank @junghaze for being my beta reader and practically saving this fic from the dead i cant be more grateful

Keep reading

[chimcess]

Waterlog || pjm (5)

Pairing: Jimin x Reader Other tags: Olympic Swimmer!Jimin, Ex Olympic Swimmer! Reader, Swim Coach!Reader Genre: Strangers to Friends to Lovers!AU, Coach!AU, Swimming!AU, HEAVY Angst, Slow Burn, Mutual Pining, fluff, eventual smut, I'm so soft for these two it's crazy. Word Count: 10.8k+ Synopsis: After a car accident ends her athletic career, Y/N has slowly started rebuilding her life again as a high school swim coach. That’s until she gets a request from an old friend and finds herself back in the spotlight as the new coach of Olympic swimmer, Park Jimin. Warnings: ANGST, crying, mental health issues, talking about mental health, I'm so soft for them it's actually wild, angst, trauma, panic attacks, talks of panic attacks, talks of sex, k*ssing, I love them so much, jimin still the best boyfriend, small argument, insecurities, strong language, one bed trope, healthy relationship conversations, boundary setting, friends being friends, character has cancer, talks of character death (brief), dry humping, moaning, things are picking up A/N: I know I'm late again, but I have a lot of personal stuff going on in my life at the moment that had made writing challenging. First a breakup, then finding a new apartment, moving, and then waiting for my internet to get turned on. It's been hectic for me! But we are back. This was very lightly edited so I apologize in advance for any issues there might be. I will go through and edit this eventually, I just wanted to get it out for you guys!

prev || masterlist || next || playlist

The drive to Jimin’s house was quick, the traffic not fully registering in my mind as I lost myself in thought. I had only ever been in love once before, and that had been a very different time in my life. I was no longer that same person, and the anxiety these new feelings were bringing up made me nauseous. I was not ready to say anything was certain, but I knew for a fact that I was falling hard and fast. 

The small suburb was nice with large homes. A few new modern builds stuck out like a sore thumb, but the area had still kept much of its original blue-American-suburban charm. Coming from Colorado, I was not used to seeing large front lawns or children’s toys left out after dark. Jimin was just ahead of me and I slowed down when his tail lights came on. 

The house was definitely brand new. I had never liked modern buildings, the architecture lacking the charm and personality I sought out when buying my own place in the Springs, but it suited the swimmer. It was difficult to make out much color, but I could tell it was mostly white with black accents on the front. Large windows took up a majority of the walls and a small balcony was above the front door. It was smaller than the other homes, but the yard was bigger than the rest, and a tall fence enclosed the back of the property. 

Taking a second to prepare myself for the rest of the night, I watched Jimin get out of Fiona and open up the two door garage at the front. He seemed to be in a rush, casting a few quick glances at my car as he paced back to the truck to pull it inside. I do not think he could see me looking back.

Picking up my phone, I called Hoseok.

“Everything okay?” He picked up, out of breath.

I smiled, “I’m okay. Promise.”

He had been extra worried about tonight. Out of everyone, Hoseok knew how huge this was for me. At one of our many late night parties I had told him that I could never love again, and that I never wanted to know that feeling again. If it wasn’t Namjoon then it could not be anybody. At the time he had reassured me, but as the years went on he had truly believed that I had completely closed off that part of my heart. To be so excited about someone had him cautious- even if he did poke fun at me most of the time.

“Why are you calling me then?” He asked.

“Just needed a bit of a pep talk,” I admitted, eyes still locked on Jimin’s truck. “I’m at his house. Feeling a little nervous.”

He hummed, “He seems like a good guy. Don’t think there’s anything you need to worry about. Just enjoy yourself.”

I sighed, watching the garage door close, knowing I would have to get out of the car soon. “I think I’m going insane.”

“Talk to me about it.”

Jimin stood by the garage door, looking at my car. I rolled the window down and waved, gestured to the phone, and managed a pathetic smile. He nodded, still watching me with a strange look on his face.

“I think I love him,” I mumbled, unable to look away from him.

Hoseok laughed, “You just figured that out? Baby, anyone with eyes and ears can see how you feel about the kid.”

“It’s been two seconds, Hobi. We barely know each other.”

“You don’t have to tell him anything,” My friend reasoned, voice nothing but friendly. “You’re all over the place right now, and you need to really think about how you feel. No one wants to hear someone ‘thinks’ they love them. Breathe. Relax. Enjoy yourself.”

As I steadied my breathing, I noticed Jimin’s face becoming concerned. He always knew when something was wrong, and it did not surprise me when he started walking across the front yard towards my car. 

“I have to go,” I choked out, panic bubbling in my chest with each step he took. “I don’t want him hearing us.”

“Otter-”

I hung up the phone and smoothed down my hair. My heart was running at a million miles an hour and my hands were shaking. I hated how worked up I got over nothing. Disgusted and discouraged, I forced a smile on my face and opened the car door. My phone vibrated, the sensation tickling my hand, but I chose to ignore it. Fake it till you make it, I told myself. The curve of Jimin’s mouth told me I was not fooling anyone.

“Everything okay?” He asked, coming to stand in front of me.

“Yeah,” I breathed, nodding frantically. In my panic, I did not see the curb and tripped. Jimin reached out to help steady me before I could fall. I shuttered. “Everything is fine. Hoseok just called to check in with me. Didn’t realize we were out together.”

The lie felt heavy on my tongue and Jimin’s eyebrows came together in confusion. He knew I was lying and it made the sinking in my gut all the more unbearable. Knowing I needed to get a grip, I stepped out of his arms and gestured to the house.

“Nice place,” I sounded like I had just run a marathon. “It’s very you.”

Jimin was quiet. Still trying to avoid talking about my odd behavior, I began rambling on and on about how much I liked the landscaping. The large bushes that surrounded the small front porch were a nice pop of color for the otherwise neutral paint job.

“Is that a gnome wearing a swimming ring?” I asked, squinting trying to make out the little figure in the darkness. “That’s so cute. Did your mom buy you that? I-”

“Y/N.”

My mouth clamped shut.

“What’s wrong?” Jimin asked, reaching out to caress my shoulder. “You’re not acting like yourself.”

I sighed, finally done hiding my very apparent discomfort. “Just really nervous about how I’m feeling.”

“Tell me about it?”

I looked at him and nodded, “Can we go inside? It’s really cold.”

“Of course, angel.”

The pet name made me short circuit long enough to get inside without saying another word. Were we on that level now? Would it be okay for me to start calling him sweet little names like that? Would he want me to? What would I even call the guy? Nothing seemed good enough. No words could ever be good enough to express everything that he was becoming to me. 

“I can take your coat,” Jimin murmured in my ears, hands already helping me shrug out of the dark wool coat. “Shoes go on that little shelf over there.”

“Thank you,” I absentmindedly replied, still dazed. 

What about babe? No, too conventional. Sweetheart? No, that was Joon’s thing. Honey? We are definitely not beating the old woman allegations with that one. That also rules out darling and sweetie. He’d never let me live that down.

“Feeling a bit better now?” He asked, hand on the small of my back as he led me further into the house. “You’re not shaking anymore.”

I had not realized how off course my thoughts had gotten. I got so swept up in him that everything else just faded away. Pleased, I smiled and nodded.

He chuckled, “Where did your mind go this time, angel girl?”

I giggled, giddy that we were keeping up the terms of endearment. 

“You.”

“Me?”

“Yeah, you,” I leaned into his touch, melting in his arms as we walked. He finally wrapped me up completely, pressing me into his side with his hand on my hip. “I like it when you call me that.”

Jimin hummed, “What? Angel?”

I nodded, putting my head on his shoulder. It was a bit awkward but I dealt with the discomfort. I enjoyed being this close to him. Knowing that he seemed just as eager to be here with me was a bonus. 

“What do you think of the place?” He asked.

Blinking, I tried to disguise the fact that I had not been paying attention to a single thing since we walked inside. Letting my eyes wonder, I almost laughed at how accurate Jimin’s description of his house was. 

Standing in his living room, I marveled at how dark everything was. Black leather sofas, a dark gray fluffy rug, a flat screen, and a black iron fireplace were the stand out pieces. There were a few family photos on the mantle and a fake potted plant beside it, but other than that it was completely barren. It was just as sad and depressing as he said it would be, but instead of feeling disappointed it only made me smile. Everything in here was his and now I was included in that. 

“I love it.”

He laughed, squeezing me impossibly closer, “You don’t have to lie. I know it’s the quintessential bachelor pad.”

“I’m not lying,” I argued. “It’s perfect. Very you.”

“Even the dusty, ugly, fake Der Rose Jungkook got me as a housewarming gift?”

“Especially that,” I joked.

“Okay clown,” He laughed, pulling away from my side. “Go sit on the couch and I’ll make us some hot chocolate. Need to warm you up.”

Giving me the remote for the very large television hanging above the fireplace, Jimin promised to be back soon and left me in charge of finding something good to watch. After flicking through a few channels, I ended up settling on 21 Jump Street and ogled at Johnny Depp and Holly Robinson Peete. My dad and I used to watch the show together when I was young, and it brought me back to the few happy times that we had. I really needed to call him.

“Damn that’s a handsome man.”

I jumped, “Jesus you scared me.”

Jimin laughed, setting down two mugs on his coffee table. They were steaming hot and I decided to leave mine to cool off for a few seconds. Taking his seat next to me, Jimin was quick to throw his arm around my shoulders and pull his legs up onto the sofa. 

“Get comfortable,” He said, crossing his legs. “It’s just me.”

“Yeah,” I snorted, curling my legs up next to me and placing my head on his shoulder. “That’s the problem.”

“You’re being extra flirty tonight,” He teased. “I like it.”

I chose to stay quiet and watch the show. This was one of my favorite episodes. Hanson, Hoff, and Loki go undercover to try and solve a string of drive-by shootings between a couple of gangs, and Booker is trying to investigate a dirty cop on the force. I always loved the scenes between Johnny Depp and Holly the most. They were so cute together and the chemistry was crazy even though their characters never ended up together.

Jimin started playing with my hair, his fingers gently caressing my neck before scratching my scalp. It felt amazing and I relaxed even further into his side. After that episode was over, he leaned down and put his head on top of mine. Another episode came on, this was the second part to the previous, and I let my eyes close. This was really nice. And to think I almost let it all go to shit because I could not keep myself from spiraling.

“I’m sorry about earlier,” I mumbled.

“Don’t be,” He whispered back, placing a small kiss on the top of my head. “Never apologize for being upset.”

Taking a deep breath, I thought about what Hoseok had said. There was no reason to tell him anything right now, or at least, the “L” word did not need to come into conversation. Still, it felt wrong to keep him in the dark. Jimin was always willing to listen and I felt awful for lying to him earlier.

“I really like you and sometimes it scares me,” I admitted quietly. “I called Hoseok to see if he had any advice. Sorry I lied about that.”

He shook his head, “I’m not upset with you, angel. Sometimes they scare me, too.”

“Really?” I had never really thought about that before.

“Of course,” He chuckled, moving away to look down at me. I lifted my head in a rare act of bravery. “I don’t think you understand just how amazing you are.”

I smiled lazily, unable to look away from him. He looked so beautiful in this lighting. The tv on one side of his face, the darkness in the rest of the house casting a dark shadow on the rest of it. I noticed his head inching closer, eyes heavily lidded as he watched me, waiting for a reaction. Heart pounding, I did the only thing I could think of. I closed my eyes and tilted my head higher.

“You smell so good,” He murmured, lips brushing mine. “God, you’re so pretty.”

I opened my mouth to respond but was unable to get anything out before his lips were pressed against it. I breathed out through my nose and allowed myself to just enjoy it. His lips were so soft and plump, his upper lip just barely scratching my skin with peach fuzz, and chin ever so gently bumping against mine as we came together. 

My skin was on fire as he invaded every cell in my body until all I could think about was him. His hand gripped the back of my neck and pressed us together roughly, his tongue licking against my bottom lip asking to be let inside. There was nothing he couldn’t ask for now. I mewled embarrassingly when our tongues twisted together. Jimin groaned in response. 

“Is this okay?” He rasped when we pulled apart for air.

I replied by taking his face in my hands and pulling him back in for more. Jimin responded eagerly, gripping my neck tighter and holding me close. I hummed in satisfaction, leaning into his chest. His skin was on fire beneath me and I briefly wondered if his chest got as pink as his cheeks did.

Jimin broke away, dragging my body closer until I was practically laying on his lap, before guiding my mouth back to his. My lips were numb, swollen, and still begging for more. The show was long forgotten, the noise also like static in the background as I suckled on his bottom lip. Jimin whined, fingers twisting into my hair as he held me in place.

“Feeling okay?” He mumbled into my mouth, taking a second to catch his breath.

“Great,” I slurred, before shutting him up again.

I lost track of time as we sat there entangled in one another. Lips hardly able to feel anything anymore, I broke away and tried to calm my racing heart. Jimin took the opportunity to go for my neck, his plush lips delicate against my skin. I shuttered. 

I could feel my panties sticking to my folds, slick gently wetting my thighs as he continued his gentle assault on my neck. He never sucked hard enough to leave marks behind, but after a few moments I could safely say Jimin was a fan of teeth. They scratched my skin softly, tickling me in the process, before his tongue smoothed over any redness that might have popped up. Moaning, I tilted my head back and granted him more access.

“You’re so fucking hot,” He rasped, licking a long stripe up my neck before biting my ear. “So needy.”

I chuckled, the sound breathless. “Do you want to stop?”

“Fuck no.”

I giggled, kissing his cheek, “Such a boy.”

I nodded, kissing the underside of my chin before pecking my lips.

“I’m your boy,” He smiled lazily, kissing me again.

“Yes,” I agreed, unable to stop smiling as I cradled his face between my hands. “My good-looking boy.”

With one final peck on my chin, Jimin leaned back into the sofa and dragged my body down with his. Laying on top of his body, my eyes fixated on the tv. Buffy the Vampire Slayer was playing now, and I grinned. It was one of my favorite shows to watch when I had a bad day. It was nice to have it with me at this moment. A happy memory with my comfort show in the background only sweetened the already tender moment. 

“She should have been with Spike,” Jimin’s chest rumbled underneath me.

Getting more comfortable, I nodded.

“I kind of like that she decided to stay friends with them both. Tara and Willow were the power couple anyway.”

“Not a fan of Oz?” He started playing with my hair.

“I liked them, too, but for different reasons. The only other couple that comes close to Tara and Willow were Giles and Jenny.”

We were quiet as we watched, small kisses shared during commercial breaks, and I never felt the need to try and open my mouth. Nothing needed to be said when our feelings were so apparent. Hoseok, as usual, was right. I just needed time to breathe and think about things before running head first into a love confession. And if he said anyone with eyes and ears could see how I felt, then there was no real reason for me to say anything. Jimin already knows. He always did.

“God, I’ve always loved that DeSoto Fireflite,” I gushed, eyeing Spike's car hungrily. “The ‘59 model is sexy.”

“Why do you know so much about cars?” He asked.

“My dad’s a mechanic,” I explained. “He owns his own restoration shop back in Pennsylvania and I used to go over there all of the time. I almost ditched swimming to take over the body shop when he lost an employee.”

“You never stop amazing me,” He murmured, kissing the top of my head. “Has he found anything cool recently?”

I grew quiet. Truthfully, I had no clue. It had been almost two years since we last spoke, and I doubted he was looking forward to hearing from me. He had a new family. A new life. One that did not have the space for me in it. My silence must have worried Jimin because he asked if I was okay.

“We don’t talk anymore,” I replied. “He got remarried a few years ago and his wife doesn’t like me.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah,” I sighed, “It’s juvenile, really. He seems happy though, so I don’t push it.”

“They don’t deserve you. You’re too good to be treated like that.”

I laughed, eyes prickling with unshed tears. I did not talk about this often and it felt nice to get it off of my chest. For a long time Victor had been the person I looked to as a father figure, and we still keep in touch. He always calls for holidays and birthdays, checks in randomly, and asks me how I’m doing. He stayed with me through the worst of the damage, and only left Colorado when his daughter decided to move abroad for school. Denver was too expensive to justify the expenses and his new trainee was in Florida. I missed him a lot more than I ever realized.

“I made my own family, though. Couldn’t have picked better.”

Colorado would always be home because that was where pieces of my heart lived. Jin, Andy, and Hoseok were never planning on moving. Minho would be there as long as Tilly was, and she was around for Hoseok. I had a feeling Max would change that, and the two of them may end up starting a new adventure with Minho in tow. A trouple for the ages. That made me grin.

Michigan was starting to feel like my own adventure. New bonds and ties are formed with each passing day. Going back to Colorado helped to put that in perspective. It did not matter if I was there or not, because my family was, and I would always have a place there. Ann Arbor was different.

The person I envisioned myself spending the rest of my life with lived here, his family and friends becoming like my own, and I could never ask him to leave them. When Na-Yeon died someone would need to be around for James and the kids. When Jungkook and Darcy inevitably went their separate ways, he would need a shoulder to cry on. Taehyung and his panic attacks. Milo and his work stresses. All of it meant that someone needed to be around to bring them back to themselves, and I wanted to be a part of that in any way they would allow me.

“I’m really happy that I met you,” I told Jimin, eyes not truly focusing on the show anymore. “Being here with you- I couldn’t ask for more.”

A kiss on my head, “I feel the same way, angel.”

I fell asleep like that. Jimin had to wake me up a little after one in the morning to see if I wanted to sleep at his place. I politely declined since I promised the Andersons that I would be back for breakfast tomorrow and left shortly thereafter. I barely even focused on the ride home, tired and drunk off of the high of the evening. 

Calvin was awake when I walked through the front door. A plate of cookies in front of him, he held up a finger to his lips and pointed upstairs. Violet had been strict about his diet as of late. The last time he had gone to the doctor his cholesterol levels were slightly elevated, and we had been eating very bland, not all that great food ever since. I smiled sleepily, stealing a cookie for myself as payment. We would never speak of this night again.

Finishing up my cookie, I quickly peeled out of my clothes before heading into the bathroom to do my skincare routine. Exhausted, I was barely aware of the text I sent to Jimin before I climbed into bed. I was asleep before my head ever hit the pillow.

“You’re still not hitting your best time,” I spoke into my headset, looking at the stop watch in my hand. “We’re only at 90%. I want 92%.”

Jimin groaned, frustrated and tired. We had been at this all morning and he was not making as much progress as I hoped he would. I had prepared an 200s anaerobic training set so we could work on his endurance. For the last few weeks we were focused on speed and mastering his butterflies and turns. Now that we were feeling more comfortable training together I was moving onto those issues I had at the beginning. So far it was not going over well.

“This is bullshit,” He huffed, pulling his goggles up. “I’ve been at this for hours and haven’t done anything.”

I shook my head and fought to keep myself neutral. Training had become a bit challenging to work around given our new relationship status, but we both agreed to keep that out of our sessions. We had another date next Friday. He was refusing to tell me where we were going, the only hint being we would be going to Jungkook’s game, but the rest was a mystery. 

“You’re getting better,” I replied, holding the microphone closer to my mouth. I had woken up with a sore throat and could not speak loud enough on my own, so we were finally using my old earpiece to communicate. “You went from 88% to 90%. I think with some more drills we can get up a bit more.”

He went to put his goggles back on, but I told him to stop.

“We’re done for the day,” I said, rubbing my raw throat. “You’re getting angry and I’m losing my voice.”

He stared at me, glowering childishly, and crossed his arms across his chest. Lifting my head a little higher, I looked at him with an eyebrow raised. It was a challenge, one we both knew meant I was losing my patience. Normally he would back down at this point, tucking his tail between his legs, and going to the back to get changed. Today, it would seem, was not a normal day.

“No we’re not,” He said through gritted teeth, eyes narrowed. “I’m not where I want to be.”

“Yes. We. Are,” I made a show of emphasizing every word, tossing my clipboard onto the duffle at my feet. “Something is bothering you. If you don’t want to talk to me about it, that’s fine, but you’ve been acting like a brat all morning.” I ripped my whistle off my neck, bent down, and shoved both it and the stopwatch into the pocket of the duffle bag. Jimin was still pouting in the center of the pool. “I’m not arguing with you. I’m sick and you’re angry. Just go get dressed.”

My throat burned. I talked too much and had not given the sore skin time to rest. Rubbing my forehead, I breathed through my nose in an attempt to cool off. His attitude was really starting to piss me off.

Angry, Jimin made his way out of the pool far louder than necessary. I sighed when the locker room door slammed behind him. I got us off on the wrong foot this morning by being snippy and curt with my answers. His foul mood only made it worse. As training went on I had gotten back into the groove, my annoyance over being ill forgotten, but my bad behavior had obviously bothered him enough to keep him frustrated with me for the rest of the morning. It did not help that I never apologized. 

I took more time packing up my things today hoping that I could “bump into” Jimin before leaving. I tried to think of the right way to word my own frustrations without undermining what happened between us. I hurt his feelings, and I needed to take ownership of that. 

“Sorry for acting like an ass.”

I shouted, shocked, and nearly slipped on the wet floor. Rebalancing on the balls of my feet, I looked over to see Jimin standing at the locker room door. He was still wearing his cap but threw on a pair of shorts. 

“I thought you were taking a shower,” I rasped, all of the fire from earlier gone. 

“Me too,” He ran a hand over his face and leaned against the closed door. “Just felt wrong letting you leave like that.”

I nodded, swallowing thickly. My saliva irritated my throat more and I winced in pain. I really needed something to help with the pain. 

“It’s not just you,” I finally said, my voice cracking. “I acted like an asshole this morning and you had every right to be upset. I’m sorry I didn’t apologize, either.”

“Doesn’t mean I should have gotten all pissy,” He sighed, looking more relaxed now than he had all day. “I’ve always had a bad temper, but that’s not an excuse to talk to you like that. It wasn’t even that big of a deal.”

He was doing that thing again, the thing where he downplayed his own hurt feelings and redirected blame onto himself. Not wanting his mind to go down that rabbit hole, I walked over to him. I rarely went to this side of the room. I usually used the employee shower in the back since I felt less exposed, but Jimin never felt ashamed of his nakedness. The only reason he started putting shorts on is because he noticed how awkward I became.

“It’s okay to be mad at me,” I soothed, reaching out to take hold of his hand. “We both acted a little childishly. Don’t beat yourself up about it.”

Nodding, he leaned forward to rest his head on my shoulder. 

“I just feel bad,” He whispered into my skin. “You’re not feeling well and here I am making it worse. I’m such a dick sometimes.”

I wrapped my arms around his neck, holding him close. Despite our second date being postponed due to training and the charity event this weekend, the physical affection we showed one another only ramped up. Kissing was Jimin’s new favorite thing, and I hoped we could take it a step further this weekend. Even if he was cool with taking things slow I had come to find out that I was not. Maybe after a nice conversation we could fool around a little more.

“So am I,” My voice was almost gone. “Now, can we stop arguing and get breakfast? A hot chocolate is the only thing that’s going to make me feel better.”

He chuckled, lifting his head to look at me. He was no longer angry, eyes dancing, and I felt a surge of energy run through me. Sick or not, I would do just about anything to keep him smiling. Even if it meant doing the hardest thing imaginable: apologizing. Stepping out of my embrace, Jimin took hold of my hand and walked us back to my duffle bag. He always insisted on carrying it.

“I think a hot tea would be much better for a sore throat,” He mused, “But if it’s cocoa you want, well, who am I to stop you?”

Rolling my eyes, I leaned into his side, “Who’s paying?”

“Me,” He scoffed. “Obviously. Denny’s is way cheaper than putting gas in my truck.”

That made me laugh loudly, the pain in my throat forgotten. We had a rule between the two of us. If you didn’t buy breakfast then you were buying gas for the day. Jimin had taken extra time coming to scoop me up this morning since I woke up sick and refused to stay in bed. After a lengthy conversation about money, we both agreed that he could pay for all of our dates if I could split up other costs with him. While not happy about it, he conceded.

“And they say chivalry is dead,” I teased, rolling my eyes.

The gym was filled, always packed just before and after lunch time. The lull of the afternoon would carry over until around 6 and we had a decent sized group until closing. When Giselle opened up at 5:30 the following morning, the same group of guys were always the first ones in the door. I had spoken to them a handful of times and helped spot one of them once or twice, but that was the most of my interactions with anyone that exercised here. None of us really wanted to be bothered, and kept mostly to ourselves.

Giselle and Sam were chatting at the host stand when we walked by. Jimin was always nice enough to greet his staff, but never stuck around for too long. They were all friendly, and he was very good friends with Yoongi and Megan, but he was too focused on keeping up with his daily schedule to hang out. Despite being late to everything, Jimin was an extremely organized person and hated it when his plans were disrupted. 

“Where are you two headed?” The young woman asked, a genuine smile on her face as she glanced down at our hands. 

“Breakfast,” I answered. Giselle was easily my favorite person here, her only competition being Megan or Yoongi, and I always tried to make time for her when she was available. “Do you need something?”

She shook her head, “Not right now, but would you be okay with bringing in a case of the blue Monsters tomorrow? We just ran out and Yoongi is feeling it hard.”

I laughed and agreed. Yoongi was the resident caffeine addict on staff and would go through pot after pot of coffee during his shift. After Drew, the general manager, told him he was using too many of the Keurig cups, he had moved onto energy drinks. The Lo-Carb Monsters were his favorite, and I was not surprised to hear he was out. He bought a four pack every other day.

“I’ll DoorDash a few packs to the building right now. I owe him anyway.”

“Are you ordering from Busch’s?” Sam asked. 

I nodded, “Probably. I know they’ll have them. What’s up?”

“Can you throw in a couple of sushi rolls?” He asked, and my phone vibrated in the side pocket of my leggings. “I sent you $20. I totally forgot to pack my lunch and I’m swamped with sessions today.”

“Sure man. Spicy crab rolls?”

“You’re an angel,” Sam sighed. “Make sure you get plenty of rest. You sound like shit.”

“Thanks,” I replied sarcastically, rolling my eyes. “See you tomorrow. I think Park will be riding solo tonight.”

Jimin chuckled, “I’m planning on skipping the gym tonight, too.”

We walked out of the building, hands swinging between us. The feeling was so familiar and yet so foreign. I had not dated since Joon’s passing and was severely out of practice, but Jimin made it feel easy. 

“You? Skipping leg day? Scandalous.”

Jimin laughed, sounding like sunshine. “And let my girl sit at home sick by herself?”

That shut me up. After learning I was a sucker for pet names, Jimin had gotten into the habit of using them to get his way. Feeling my face heating up, I forced a laugh as I let go of his hand and rounded the truck. My girl. It made me feel both terrified and comforted at the same time.

My girl…Angel…Angel Girl… I couldn’t pick a favorite.

“Do you mind if I come over?” Jimin sounded less confident now. 

I had barely noticed him starting the truck. Must have zoned out again. 

“I don’t have much to do,” I admitted. “My place is pretty boring.”

“You’re there,” He shrugged. “And you have a tv. I’m sure we can think of something.”

“Okay,” I hid my smile behind my hand and started to look out of the window.

Saline was very beautiful. At this time of year, many of the trees were barren but I knew they would look gorgeous in the summer. I frowned. I was set to be back in Colorado by then if I could not make up my mind about the move.

“Don’t get quiet on me, gran-gran,” I snorted. “You don’t blink when you zone out and it’s creepy.”

“I so do,” I laughed, turning to look at the pretty boy. “You are such a liar.”

That did nothing but make him laugh. “Might want to order those drinks, by the way.”

I thanked him for the reminder and quickly made a small shopping cart. I threw in a few extras. Coconut creamer for Skye, a new box of Hot Pockets for Drew and Dominic, and a large box of cookies and chips for the rest of the staff. Before I could check out, a page popped up of previous things I had ordered before and I quickly added one of those expensive bags of cookies. Those were Megan’s favorite and she had bought me two coffees this week. 

“Do you want anything?” I asked Jimin.

“Maybe some seaweed chips?” We were turning into the Denny’s parking lot. “Thanks, angel.”

I added in a few other items. Band-aids because I knew we were running low, more tea bags, the coffee pods Yoongi liked, and a few different packets of the candy for Giselle. She had such a sweet tooth it was a miracle she only had one cavity. It took me a bit longer to find Jimin’s favorite brand of seaweed chips, and I decided to toss in a few different flavors of the spicy ramen he loves to eat as well. Finally happy with my order, I checked out and messaged Sam that I secured his lunch. He sent me the sunglasses emoji as a reply.

“Earth to Y/N.”

I jumped, blinking rapidly, and saw a thoroughly amused Jimin staring at me. We were parked, the truck was off, and his hand was already on the handle. We both laughed but did not say anything else. If Jimin could be late all of the time then I could space out whenever I wanted.

“I’m so ready for these blueberry pancakes,” Jimin threw his arm around my shoulders as we walked. “What are you getting?”

I shrugged, “Hot cocoa and an omelet, probably.”

“An omlet does sound really good,” He mumbled to himself, holding open the door for me.

“That’s why I’m getting one,” I mumbled, pausing at the door to kiss him. “I’m thinking  ham and cheese.”

Jimin smiled, caught off guard by the gesture, “Shit, if omelets get me one of those then I’ll eat eggs for the rest of my life.”

I laughed, the sound echoing in the small entrance area. This Denny’s was always busy but I could see a few empty booths in the back. Perfect.

“You think I’m playing,” He continued, wrapping an arm around my waist as he grabbed a hold of the second door. “Breakfast, lunch, and dinner if I had to.”

I rolled my eyes, “You don’t need to live off eggs to get kisses, you big baby.”

“No,” He chuckled, swooping down and stealing a kiss of his own. “But it sounded really cool.”

The hostess smiled at our little exchange and I fixed her with a deadpan stare.

“Typical.”

She laughed, “Right this way.”

Hobi: Are you excited about the charity event?

Me: Park’s going to kill it

Hobi: Nervous about getting seen?

Me: Not at all. I doubt anyone there will recognize me anyway.

Closing the trunk of my car, I sighed. We were on our way to the charity meet, and Jimin was running a few minutes behind. Fiona needed to go to a shop soon and Jimin was driving her like she was going to explode any second. It was frustrating as I hated being late, but it was impossible to be angry with him. We had planned on leaving the day before the meet and getting a hotel room so we could both be as well rested as possible. 

To say I was nervous about sharing a room for the night was an understatement. Jimin had gotten a suite with two beds so I would feel more comfortable (his words, not mine), but the added security of separation did little to calm my racing thoughts. I was not planning on having sex this weekend, Jimin needed to keep his energy for the meet, but I would be lying if I said the thought had not crossed my mind more than once.

“Are you okay?”

Snapping out of my trance, I turned to find the man of the hour stood next to me. There was a large duffle bag around his shoulders, and his oversized hoodie only made him look even smaller. Smiling, he kissed my cheek in greeting. 

“Fine,” I breathed, smiling back. “Almost ready?”

Jimin nodded, “Just need to put this bag in the back. You didn’t forget any of your meds, right?”

He had been spending most of his time at my house recently and was well acquainted with my large pill collection. At first he had been concerned as to why I turned down taking medication for my illness back on Monday, but stopped questioning it so much when I told him about the other four pills I take daily. I always avoided taking extra stuff if I could.

“They’re in my suitcase.”

We were going to be in Allendale until Sunday. The meet was on Saturday, and while it was only a little over 2 hours away, I was positive Jimin was going to be exhausted after we were finished. This was an event super close to his heart and he had told me how nervous he felt about attending. Spending two nights seemed like a simple solution to deal with both of our anxieties, and even more so when I brought up my fears of being recognized and harassed. Jimin turned red with anger when I told him about my previous experiences with the news and promised he would never let that happen to me again. 

“I guess we should stop by my mom’s house on the way out,” He mused. “I know she wanted to come but she’s been really sick.”

Na-Yeon’s avoidance of treatment was finally beginning to take its toll on her physical health. I had hardly seen her at all since I came back from Colorado, and from what Jimin tells me she’s done nothing but throw up and sleep. James had told me that she was trying to stay alive long enough to see Jimin win an Olympic medal, but he wasn’t sure if that was going to be possible. I was hoping to speak with her myself and see if there was any way I could convince her to start her chemo back up again. It was killing Jimin to see his mother this way.

“I was thinking,” I handed my keys over to Jimin. “Maybe your mom and I could have a little girl’s day when we get back.”

“Why?” He chuckled, 

I shrugged. Trying to come off as nonchalant was better than honesty. I was not sure how Jimin would take my intrusion, but I still wanted to try it anyway. I loved Na-Yeon, and hoped that I could talk her out of her decision. There had been a time when I would have let myself die, too, but I was fortunate enough to have Andy fighting for me. I probably would have never walked again had it not been for her and Hoseok.

“Just want to be closer to her,” It was not a lie. I was dating her son and I wanted us to be like mother and daughter the same way I had been with Namjoon’s family. “She’s been looking a little down lately. Maybe getting out of the house a little might cheer her up.”

Jimin grinned at me, his expression soft. Leaning forward, he kissed my forehead. My chest warmed. He was always touching me as though I was made of glass.

“Have I ever told you how amazing you are?” He asked.

“Once or twice,” I replied, a giggling bubbling up my throat. “We should get going. Traffic is going to start piling up soon.”

Piling into the car, I relaxed into the passenger seat and took a hold of Jimin’s hand. He chuckled, pulled away to put the car into drive, and placed his hand on my thigh. I could feel a light layer of sweat on his palms. I put my hand on top of his.

“Are you sure you’re okay driving?” I asked him, tightening my grip.

“Yeah, angel,” He replied, smiling over at me. “I’m good. I like driving.”

“Still,” I argued, “You’re going to be swimming all day tomorrow. I feel bad making you drive, too.”

“Don’t,” He lifted my hand and kissed the back of it. His eyes never left the road. “I’m happy you’re here with me. All that other shit is just details.”

That shut me up. We drove in silence for the few minutes that it took to get to his parent’s house. I decided to stay in the car while he went to say goodbye. Jimin deserved some alone time with his folks, and I had sent a text to his mother this morning promising to send her a video of him swimming. All she cared about was making sure she could have a phone call with him when everything was over with. Na-Yeon missed watching him swim more than anything and it broke her heart that she was too ill to come with us today.

James waved at me from the front door and I returned the gesture with a huge smile. He had been so excited to see me after finding out about Jimin and I. James was extremely supportive and had already started to call me his daughter. I had yet to return the favor, but secretly loved it. Jimin would get so embarrassed, he’d turn red and scold his dad in Korean. Na-Yeon would watch them silently, but send me a smile and a wink when she thought no one was looking. Wedding bells were already sounding off in their heads.

I thought it would bother me more than it did. Instead, I felt calmed by their excitement. I had been really worried about the age gap between the two of us, but having our family and friends be so accepting had taken that weight off of my shoulders. 

Ne-Yeon’s little head poked out from behind her husband’s shoulder. She looked worn and had bags under her eyes, but her smile was just as big and beautiful as it always had been. Touched that she had thought to come and greet me, I got out of the car.

“What are you doing out of bed?” I teased, wrapping my arms around the frail woman.

She returned my hug with full force. It was concerning that her squeezes felt feather light. I hoped she was eating enough.

“Bodybuilding,” She joked, her voice lacking the usual spunk it carried. When I went to let go, she held me tighter. “Take care of him.”

I nodded, “I will.”

Jimin and I left a few minutes later. Na-Yeon was hanging off of him for as long as she could, her little arm wrapped around his waist as the four of us stood in their doorway. James and I never made physical contact, but Jimin always swore his dad preferred me to him. The older man was always smiling at me, his eyes sparkling brightly, and his mouth moving so quickly at times it was difficult to understand what he was saying. Today was one of those days and I struggled to pay attention to anything else.

“Dad,” Jimin interrupted Jame’s latest fishing story. “We have to go.”

James deflated.

“When you come back?” He asked me. 

“Sunday,” I replied. “We should be back for dinner.”

He smiled again, “I make daegusal-jorim for you. It’s spicy.”

I grinned. If I remember right, that was some sort of cod dish. James was always making some type of seafood since he was fishing constantly. Na-Yeon often complained about never eating any other meat. Jimin and I were always happy to indulge ourselves in his father’s cooking.

“I’m cooking,” Ne-Yeon said.

I looked at her, “Really?”

The last time I had eaten her food was Jimin’s birthday back in October. She made a huge pot of kimchi stew since it was her son’s favorite, and I remembered it being delicious. Sometimes Jimin would talk about all of his favorite foods he grew up eating, and 9 times out of 10 it would be something his mother had made him. Apparently, according to Jimin, his father could only cook fish. Na-Yeon, however, could make magic out of nothing. 

“Yes,” She insisted. “Need to celebrate my baby.”

Jimin flushed, his mother’s fingers pinching at his fat cheeks. “Mom.”

“I’ll try to get us back early enough to help you out,” I offered, checking my watch. “We really do need to go, though. Trying to beat the traffic.”

With a few hugs and a couple of kisses on the cheek, Jimin and I left. I had finally grown used to Jimin playing the radio while he drove, and I enjoyed watching him as he sang along. Catching my eye, Jimin grinned widely and serenaded me. He had a pretty voice, soft and sweet, and I felt my heart jump into my throat.

It was shocking just how comfortable I was in this car with him. Instead of staring out the window, watching the roads like a hawk, I was laughing and enjoying his presence. With the radio blasting, I opened my mouth and sang back. Jimin’s eyes widening, his voice growing more confident as he took my hand in his.

“With a taste of your lips I’m on a ride,” He giggled, squeezing my fingers.

“You're toxic,” I wiggled my eyebrows. “I’m slippin’ under.”

“With a taste of a poison paradise,” I leaned over and kissed his shoulder. “I’m addicted to you. Don’t you know that you’re toxic?”

Satisfied with myself, I leaned back in my seat and watched him sing. My actions only emboldened his own, and soon Jimin was singing his heart out in the driver's seat. His hand on my thigh moved closer and closer to my core only to slide back down when he realized what he was doing. Each time I laughed it off, but inside I was yearning for him to do more. Not in the car, I might have a real panic attack then, but possibly when we were in the safety of our hotel room.

The drive was quicker than normal. We had beaten the traffic by an hour and our impromptu karaoke session in the car made the time fly. The sun was just beginning to set as we pulled up at the hotel and Jimin was practically skipping inside. Making him happy was something I took great pride in, and my little performance in the car had made him radiant.

My chest puffed out when I caught the front desk receptionist eyed him hungrily. Her pretty eyes were unable to stop staring at the beautiful boy beside me. Hand in hand, we took our key card and made our way to the elevator.

When the doors shut, Jimin pulled me into his arms. I sighed in relief. He smelled so good, his chest warm and hard, and I could smell the faint hint of his after shave. It didn’t matter if we won or lost this event. Nothing was going to destroy the high I was on.

“I’m nervous,” Jimin mumbled, letting me go when the elevator dinged. “I know a few of the guys I’ll be swimming with tomorrow. They’re all really good.”

I nodded, “You’re better.”

“How do you know that?” I had never heard him sound so unsure of himself before. “I haven’t been competing like I normally do this season.”

“Because you’re Jimin Park,” I replied easily, the confidence in my tone unmistakable. “And I’m Y/N Y/L/N. We’ve both put in a lot of work and time into this, and you’re going to be great.”

“But-”

I shushed him. Taking the keycard from his hand, I swiped the card through the reader and opened the door. Behind me, Jimin breathed through his nose. It was a loud, defeated sound. Stepping into the room, I gestured for Jimin to walk inside and closed the door behind us.

It was a standard hotel room. A large queen sized bed was in the middle, a small love seat beside it, and a mini fridge beside the large flat screen hanging on the wall. The air was stale, like no one had been in here in a while, and I could faintly see fading stains on some kind in the dark carpet. I bit my lip. Maybe I should have gotten the nicer place Taehyung had suggested.

“5 Stars?” Jimin dead-panned, the little smirk on his face telling me he was joking.

I sauntered closer to him, hands resting on his chest, “Of course. Only the best for an Olympian.”

He sighed, wrapping his arms around my waist, “Thank you angel.”

Still feeling high off of his presence, I kissed his cheek.

“I was talking about me.”

“Yeah?” He mumbled, lips brushing my own. “You think you’re funny?”

I nodded, dazed, “Hilarious.”

“Ass,” He breathed, before finally kissing me properly. “Anyone ever tell you that you talk too much?” Another kiss. Then another. Then another. “It’s distracting.”

“What should we do about that?” I choked out, chasing after his retreating face. “Where are you going?”

He giggled cheekily, eyes glittering mischievously. 

“We need to eat, don’t we?”

I rolled my eyes and huffed, grabbing the back of his neck with my hand. “Fuck the food.”

He pulled away again, his face far more serious now. All of the playful lust flowing through my vein was stopped dead in its tracks leaving a chill in its wake. Fearful I had been too forward, I immediately took a step back and shied away from him like I had been burned. Jimin noticed this and shook his head, reaching out to grab my hand. I let him.

“I want to,” He told me. “I’m just not ready for that yet, and I think you deserve better than some nasty motel in Allendale.”

I nodded, my understanding of his fears doing little to dull the sting of his rejection. I knew it was not a real rejection, he had just asked for more time, but my heart ached with the memory of him moving away from me. It made me feel disgusted. Still, I forced a smile onto my face and nodded. I hoped he could tell I was okay with his request. It was only the hurt feelings that made me want to run away and hide.

“I get it,” Even I could hear the sickeningly-sweet edge my voice had taken on and hated it. I was so bad at this shit. “We can take our time. Whatever you want.”

Jimin frowned but chose not to say anything. Pulling back from him, I wandered to the tv and picked up the remote. A home renovation show was on and I knew I would not be paying enough attention to the tv to care how awful the acting was. 

“What’s for lunch?” I asked absentmindedly, trying to come across more relaxed than I felt. “I saw a pizza place on the way in if you’re feeling it.”

Silence.

“Maybe something less greasy,” I mused, already feeling myself growing panicked. “Milo said there’s a really good Italian place not too far from here-”

“Baby.”

I stopped talking and looked at the pretty boy standing across the room. He looked so sad and it broke my heart. I hated it when he didn't smile. I hated it even more when it was my fault.

“Talk to me,” He urged, coming to stand beside me. He made no moves to touch me for which I was grateful. “I know you’re upset about something.”

I shrugged, “I take rejection about as well as anybody else, and I don’t want you to feel bad about it so I’m moving on. I know we’re both hungry so I’m trying to figure out food. I’m sorry if I’m being weird again.”

He nodded, smiling sadly. “I’m sorry I hurt your feelings.”

I reached out to hug him. Jimin was happy to take me into his arms. I loved how safe and secure I felt in his presence. I was slightly taller than he was, my body made for swimming, but he never seemed to mind. Leaning down, I tucked my head underneath his chin and closed my eyes. Breathe, I told myself.

“You didn’t mean to,” I replied. “I’m sorry if I made you feel pressured or rushed into anything.”

He chuckled, “I want to have sex with you. Just not right now. Not tonight.”

I closed my eyes, “Later?”

That made him laugh. I grinned in response. My foul mood left with a kiss to the top of my head. We were fine. There was no reason to get insecure. We were fine. Jimin liked me. I liked him. That’s all that matters.

I adjusted myself and leaned my head on his. Jimin buried his face into my neck and left a few gentle kisses on the sensitive skin. I whined in response, curling into him. Jimin groaned, the sound strained. I felt it in my core.

“Definitely,” He rasped, giving my neck another kiss. “We need to stop before I change my mind.”

I giggled, pulling away from him. If he wanted space and time then I would give that to him, even if it meant making the both of us a little uncomfortable for the next two days. With the awkward moment behind us, we started planning out dinner and I was confident in our chances at winning tomorrow. Even though it was a charity event, we were both excited about the donation money going to the hospital where his mother received treatment. Jimin especially.

After our late lunch (we decided on pizza), we came back to the hotel. I was adamant that Jimin take the day off from swimming to preserve his energy for tomorrow. His old coach (asshole) had always forced him to swim at every possible moment, and would become angry and condescending when Jimin asked for time off. I swore the next time I saw Hamilton I’d give him a piece of my mind, but knew that I would ultimately leave him be. The guy was a slimeball and didn’t deserve my time and energy.

Crawling into bed that night, we talked for a few hours while a crime tv show played. Jimin enjoyed pillowtalk and I just enjoyed his company too much to tell him to stop talking. Once it was around ten, his eyes closed in the middle of a sentence and light snores followed soon after. That was another thing he was good at- falling asleep wherever and whenever.

I got out of bed a few minutes later, my mind too busy to go to sleep. As quietly as I could, I walked out of the hotel room. Jimin did not move an inch. 

Hoseok picked up after the third ring.

“Do you know what time it is?” He answered, fake anger in his voice.

“Yeah, 10,” I rolled my eyes. “Way before your bedtime. Are you free?”

Hoseok hummed, “Yeah. What’s up?”

I groaned, embarrassment creeping up my spine. I would have preferred to talk to Andy about this, but I knew she was working tonight and would not be free. Tilly was an absolute no go, and I did not feel comfortable enough with anybody in Saline to call them this late to talk about my dry sex life. They were all Jimin’s friends first anyway.

“Jimin says he’s not ready for sex and I’m trying not to overthink it. I need your advice, oh wise one.”

Hoseok laughed, “Dude, I can’t help you. My girl is the same way.”

Shocked, I tried to remember if I had ever heard about this mystery girl before. Then, it hit me. Andy had mentioned something about a blonde girl. She must be serious for Hoseok to casually bring her up in conversation. I wonder how long he’d been hiding her from the rest of us.

“Your girl, huh? And who might that be?”

Hoseok sighed, “I know it sounds crazy, but she’s a swimmer.”

Racking my brain, I tried to think of every blonde swimmer I knew of. MacKenzie Boyd was way too young, Rhonda Yara lived in Florida most of the year, and Brittney Powell was just not Hoseok’s type. That left Opal Simmons and Tove Alfson. They both lived in Colorado, both were fantastic swimmers, and both seemed like nice girls. Opal was the older of the two, so I was more inclined to believe that was who he was talking about, but this was all under the assumption that the girl was a professional swimmer.

“Do you remember Opal Simmons?”

I snorted. So I was right. Feeling good about myself, I nodded and told him that I did. She was pretty, but I remembered thinking she was unremarkable. She had been doing extremely well this season and swimming more than she ever had before. I had a good feeling about her run at this year’s Olympics. She had always swam in teams and this was her first time doing a solo season.

“How’d you meet her?” I asked, leaning against the metal railing across from the door.

“I went to go see Ozzie and she stopped by to talk to him for a few minutes. She took one look at me, smiled, and gave me her number. And you know I’m a sucker for a confident woman.”

“So you took her to the most expensive bar in Colorado Springs?” I joked.

Hoseok spluttered, “How’d you know about that?”

“Well international super spy,” I teased, “You blew your cover. Jin saw you and told Andy. Andy told me. I didn’t tell anybody.”

The swimmer groaned and I could not help but laugh at his expense. We were always like this. Teasing and joking around with one another. A few tender moments sprinkled in between. I remembered when people thought we were a couple simply because we were friends of the opposite sex, but I had never felt anything but sisterly love for the guy. We were always there for each other through thick and thin, and right now I was grateful for his crude sense of humor. Hoseok rarely took things seriously and I needed a bit of fun. It made my anxiety feel less scary.

“We had fun,” He defended. “She’s fucking awesome, man. You’re really going to like her. Next time you’re in town, bring your boy so we can go on a double date.”

“Will do.”

We had a momentary pause. That meant Hoseok was thinking. He tried to choose his words carefully when he was being serious, so I knew that meant we were going to actually start talking about the reason I called. He was far more easy going than I was, so I was sure Opal’s timidness did not bother him at all. I was the spaz of the group only being outdone by Andrea.

“Did he say why?” Hoseok finally asked.

I told him about what had happened this afternoon and the small moments before. The way he always stopped things before they could get any further. How kissing him sometimes felt like he was saying goodbye. How genuinely upset he was by my reaction to his constant pausing. Hoseok listened to everything before saying another word.

“Maybe he’s had something happen to him in the past,” Hoseok brought up. That was something I had not really considered before. “He just sounds a little scared and nervous. Not unwilling, just hesitant. You should talk to him about it. I mean really talk to him. That’s what I did with Opal and it made going at her pace seem less daunting.”

“So you don’t think I’m doing anything wrong?” I finally asked, voicing my fears from earlier. I could not tell Jimin that’s what I was afraid of, it felt too childish, but Hoseok was used to my ever present anxieties. “I really didn’t mean to invalidate him.”

Hoseok chuckled, “I think you’re doing just fine, babe. You just need to learn how to relax and let shit happen. He likes you. He told you he wants to have sex with you directly. Don’t let yourself ruin this, okay?”

I nodded, feeling a frog forming in my throat. It felt wrong to cry right now, but it was the most therapeutic way to handle how frustrated I was with myself. I was too old to act like this. Too strong and independent. This really should not hurt me the way that it does, and yet I could feel myself closing off again.

The door behind me opened and I startled, almost dropping my phone. Whipping around I saw Jimin standing there, no shirt and a pair of sweatpants hanging loosely around his hips. Dark hair a wild mess, he rubbed his eyes and tried his best to look more awake than he felt. My heart melted, some of the stress I felt moments before lessening. He was here. We were fine. I was just being overdramatic. I just needed to breathe.

“I have to get some sleep,” I told Hoseok, eyes never leaving Jimin’s body. “I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”

“Talk to you then,” I hung up.

Jimin’s eyes searched my face and I could feel a few escaped tears on my cheeks. I felt small under his watchful gaze, but the gentleness in his eyes never wavered. I stood there stupidly, unable to move.

“Come back to bed,” His voice was soft. “I miss you.”

And because he made me behave like a good little lap dog, I crawled into that bed without protest. Pulling me into his arms, Jimin held me close and tight. I relaxed and let his body heat warm me up. I had not realized how cold I had gotten and shivered. Jimin kissed my nose and got comfortable.

“Don’t leave me,” He rasped, already falling back asleep. “Please?”

I almost cried again. He sounded so lost and defeated. Maybe Hoseok was right. Maybe something happened to him that made sex feel terrifying. What it could be I had no idea, but I hoped that with time he could help me understand. As desperately I wanted him to know me- I wanted to know him.

“I promise I won’t,” I whispered, kissing his chest.

His arms squeezed me gently before there was nothing but snores and the sound of the A/C in the room.

Taglist: @ownthesunshine @screamertannie @lovelytaes-blog @pernesianparapio @tae-with-some-suga @sumzysworld @chimmisbae

© chimcess, 2024. Do not copy or repost without permission.

[jiminrings]

old works masterlist !

[ JIMIN ]

would you; mini-series

falling, fleeting, yearning

insufferable

rich boy!jimin can be a cuddly and stubborn force to be reckoned with, and PA!y/n is his constant that grounds him the most when he needs it.

homebound: tough love

jimin is your crew chief and you are 101% sure that he hates you for no apparent reason. (best friend!jimin from homebound)

cherry king

ft. fratboy!jimin for drabble week

[ JUNGKOOK ]

most valuable

coach!jungkook is willing to be on the receiving end of your spikes if it means you would forgive him.

the jealousy, the first fight, the volleyball shorts

lover

jungkook dislikes committed relationships, and piercing artist!y/n is very much loveable.

cloud nine

jungkook is a personal trainer and you might like him more than your cloud-embroidered towel.

late skate

jungkook’s the only reason you’ve bought a skateboard, and he’s worth the scraped knees.

never (k)not you

jock!jungkook finds it dumb that he used to think it was stupid to hold your hand in public.

blue's koo(s)

jungkook’s a bleach and dye virgin, and hairstylist!y/n makes him fall faster than his hair could lift.

last name, jeon.

ft. badboy!jungkook for drabble week

full blooms

jungkook visits you at work after a week of not seeing you, and he really should've thought of a better approach.

[ TAEHYUNG ]

cabin pressure

taehyung may or may not have a crush on you, and you may or not be head over heels for him — only problem is that he’s a bit dense.

rich kid kim

taehyung’s an art major, and he probably needs to work more on his emotional constipation.

pearl of mine

merman!taehyung’s never expected to save his soulmate in such a dumb yet risky circumstance, but here he is a week after insisting to ignore you.

[ YOONGI ]

homebound

race car driver!yoongi is persistent, and pit stop crew member!y/n is more valuable than any trophy could be.

y/n and jimin’s tough love friendship, jungkook’s pov, the valentine special  

contact: you

yoongi is a model that can’t put in contact lens to save his life, and y/n is an intern that he’s fond of. (model!yoongi from insufferable au)

across the living room

yoongi is your roommate and you may have feelings for him, and he may have crushed your hope sooner than you wanted to.

retail-type beat

ft. customer!yoongi for drabble week

[ SEOKJIN ]

real  

single dad!jin is ten-feet deep in love with you, and he only wants to go deeper; ft. swim coach!y/n, and your ex that just had to be an olympic swimmer.

[ NAMJOON ] 

muse of mine

playwright!joon would never miss an ophthalmologist appointment ever again, if it means knowing that he won’t ever make a fool out of himself again sitting next to you – his idol.

[ HOSEOK ]

base line

preschool teacher!hobi thinks he hates you, and you’re pretty sure that he does, so maybe some distance will do some good. (spoiler alert: it won’t)

parallel

band singer!hoseok probably shouldn’t jump to conclusions that quick — false assumptions may or may not lead to fallouts with wedding planner!y/n.  

no time for love

ft. doctor!hoseok for drabble week

[ggukkieland]

📕BTS Fic Reads - 2021 Aug Pt. 1

Thank you dear authors whose stories have entertained me, made me cry when I needed to, and gave me that giddy feeling to add sweetness to my fic reading life.

If you stumbled upon this list and decided to give the fics a try, please reblog author’s fics and share these stories too =).

Note: if link doesn’t work, click on author and go to their masterlist

🥕 Ongoing - most recent chapter [as of date this list was posted] 🥕 Completed - completed one shots | series (Pt 2) 🥕 S - smut | F - fluff | A - angst

🥕 [Ongoing Series]

↬ Namjoon

Curious Creatures @mikrokaos​ - series [4/?] | 18.5k+ | Fantasy AU, Dragon!Namjoon, Soulmate AU | f, a, eventual s

Fragmented Glass @mochismilesbrighterthansun​ - series [7/?] | 42.2k+ | Enemies to Lovers, Arranged Marriage | a, s, f - 02 03 04 05 06 07

Hyde @avveh​ - series [1/?] | 8.8k+ | Enemies to Lovers, slow burn, Lawyer AU, courtroom drama, interesting character changes (from Namjoon 👀, like jekyll and hyde) | a, eventual s

Lavender Skies (a re-write) @jamaisjoons​ - series [2/?] | 20.3k+ | Single Dad AU, Marine Veterinarian!OC, Domestic AU, originally Intro:Her | f, a, s

↬ Seokjin

Bitten @bloomsuga​ - smau | vampire seokjin x historian reader, part of the Spookiverse, humor | f, a, s?

Dishonesty - Part 1: Pray You Catch Me @00bamc​ - series [5/?] | 14k+ | infidelity au, husband au | a, s

↬ Yoongi

Back Burner @yoonpobs​ - series [3/?] | 9.6k+ | friends to lovers, childhood friends, sister’s best friend!yoongi, sibling rivalry of some sort, enemies to lovers? | s, f

Need to Know @minyfic​ - series [5//?] | 16.9k+ | Sugar Daddy AU, CEO AU, soft dom!yoongi, age gap | s, f, a

No Rebounds @joheunsaram​ - drabble series [2/?] | 2k+ | marriage au, husband au, marriage on the rocks type of scenario | a, f

Westfield Apartments @gamerwoo​ - series [4/?] | 9.4k+ | mystery, horror, ghost au, Yoongi is a tenant, mystery surrounding the fifth floor | a

↬ Hoseok

First of Many @jkiddingjeon​ - series [1/?] | 2.8k+ | brother’s bestfriend au, fwb au, forbidden love |

Outlaw @chemicalpink​ - series [intro/?] | 1.2k+ | sci-fi, enemies to lovers, spy au | f, a, eventual s

Poison Ivy @jinseunie​ - two shot [1/2] | 12k+ | choreographer!hoseok x dancer!reader, slow burn, OC final year at SOPA | f, a, eventual s

↬ Jimin

Barracuda @vantezza​ - series [2/9] | 9.6k+ | fuckboy au, bad boy au, fwb au, eventual established relationship | s, a, f?

The Ties That Bind Us Still @pjmaparty​ - series [3/?] | 25.2k+ | CEO!Jimin, Husband turned Exes AU, unplanned pregnancy, themes of infidelity | a, f

↬ Taehyung

A Fated Life @kooktrash​ - series [1/?] | wc: ?? | Historical Fantasy AU, Arranged Marriage, Corpse Bride Victor Van Dort meets Mr Darcy meets Alice in Wonderland | future s

Colours @lovelytaes-blog​ - series [2/?] | 33.8k+ | Single Dad AU, Artist!Reader, strangers to lovers, met Taehyung’s daughter at the park | a, s, f

Oh, Alpha Mine @sunshyngal - series [1/?] | 900wc+ | a/b/o dynamics, childhood enemies, brother’s best friend au, reporter!oc, homicide detective!taehyung, crime au, mystery | a, s

Rotten Angelcake @inkedtae​ - series [3/?] | 28.4k+ | CEO AU, Curvy!Reader, Sugar Daddy AU (or according to author Taeddy 😉), slow burn, strangers to lovers | s, f, a

Strawberry and Cigarettes @knpjpr​ - smau | stoner!taehyung x rich girl!reader, enemies to lovers, social divide | a, f

When Love is Enough @selfproducingfanfictionauthor​ - drabble series [3/?] | 1.3k+ |  idol!taehyung, unplanned pregnancy, career vs love type of scenario | a, f (no masterpost so please check author’s masterlist for the links to other chapters)

↬ Jungkook

Addicted to U @ughcore​ - one shot + ongoing series [5/?] | 27k+ | Enemies to Lovers, eventually Established Relationship (a bit of secret relationship at first) | s, f, a

A Lover’s Kiss @hueseok​ - series [11/16] | 36.4k+ | fwb au, idiots to lovers, college au, pining, swimmer!jungkook, editor-in-chief!reader | s, f, a

Amaranth @kookieswan​ - series [1/?] + blurbs [3/?] | 3.8k+ | Bestfriend AU, Royalty AU | f

An Abundance of Luck & a Sprinkle of Fate @borathae​ - series [3/?] | 18k+ | spin-off to I Hate You, I Love You (KTH), CEO AU, Sex Worker AU, Hurt/Comfort, strangers to lovers, BDSM | a, s

Bella Sposa @makeawish2020​ - drabble series [6/?] | 6-8k? | secret agent au, assassin au, enemies to lovers, secret identity, mystery | a

Burning Love @bangtanficsforyou​ - series [prologue/?] | 787 wc | Exes AU, CEO AU, OC’s company bought by Jungkook (ex turned boss) | f, a, s (?)

City of Scales @kookdiaries​ - two shot [1/2] | 6.4k+ | Mermaid AU, Royalty AU | a, s

Euphoria @lovelytaes-blog - drabble series [2/?] | 7.2k+ | established relationship, husband au, they were high school sweethearts | s, f

Love Ain’t a Business @bangtanhome​ - series [1/?] | 9.2k+ | best friend’s brother au, enemies to lovers, ex-fwb au, fake dating (with the best friend) | s, f, a

Love Fool @citrustan​ - ongoing [2/4] + drabbles [1/?] | 5.5k+ | boyfriend!jungkook, some issue with boyfriend’s best friend!Yuna | a, s, f

Mean Girls @kookluv​ - drabble series [4/?] | 6.6k+ | shy!jungkook, popular!oc, mean!oc, college au | f, a

One Beep @peachiekoo​ - series [1/?] | 2k+ | enemies to lovers, love alarm au, their parents’ divorce is related (so JK hates her/her family) | a, eventual f

Paradise @sunshinerainbowsbts​ - series [1/?] | 6.1k+ | Neighbor AU, Stripper!Jungkook, secret identity, slow burn | s

Queen of Ice @readyplayerhobi​ - drabble series [3/?] | 5.1k+ | Bodyguard AU, Royalty AU, Fantasy (Ice Magic User!OC x Water Magic!Jungkook) | f, a

Shadows of Euphoria @cinnabun-faerie​ - series [5/?] | 9.5k+ | Demon!Jungkook, feat. ???!Taehyung, Soulmate AU, historical(? takes place in ancient Greece) | f, a

Sheltered Hearts @jeonfrvr​ - series [6/?] | 11.5k+ | fuckboy au, college au, strangers to lovers (Jungkook found OC eating cereal on kitchen floor at 3 am), brother’s best friend too (taehyung) | f, eventual s

Take All My Firsts @sunshyngal​ - drabble series [1/?] | 1.5k+ | CEO AU, secretary!OC, shy awkward anti-social jungkook | f (please this is so hilarious 😂)

The Art of… @venusiangguk​ - series [4/?] + drabbles [3/?] | 50.3k+ | single dad au, dilf!jungkook, store clerk!oc, fwb au, strangers to lovers | s, a, f (originally part of my Feb 2021 Pt 2 reading list but the story got expanded yay! Now part of ongoing reads)

The Devil’s Own @sunshyngal​ - series [2/?] | 15.9k+ | Mafia AU, Revenge AU, Crime AU, check tags for triggering themes! (non-con, toxic behavior, etc. Jungkook isn’t meant to be cute here) | s, a

With a Sense of Innocence @borathae - series [3/?] | 19k+ | Friends to Lovers, Idiots to Lovers, Mutual Pining, College AU, Neighbors AU, eventual established relationship | f, s *though ongoing, can be considered

↬ OT7

Business @btssmutgalore​ - series [4/?] | 54.8k+ | Rich OC, Executive!OC, noona? (not much age gap), taekook looking for investor and got more business *wink, wink* | s 🌷 (so this is a classic and I am so thrilled it got recently updated 😍)

Ethereal @purpleyoonn​ - series [prologue/?] | wc:? (coming soon but the premise is so intriguing)| Dragon AU, Fantasy, Mafia AU, Poly AU | s 🌷

🥕 [Completed Fics/Series]

📕BTS Fic Reads - 2021 Aug Pt. 2  

posted: 2021 Sep 03

link to other reading lists

other fic rec lists (by theme)

I love to read so feel free to message me about fics! 🌷

[oftenderweapons]

Blue Crush | a BTS summer collab

In a small coastal town, seven young men are ready to make you swoon and sweat in the hottest summer ever.

I am extremely pleased to announce this amazing collab with amazing people!!! Keeping this on the down low was IMPOSSIBLE I wanted to scream it all the time, but HERE WE GO, FINALLY!!!!

The fics will be posted later this August; however, please, do not pressure us writers, as always we're human and delivering art takes TIME. Thank you for your understanding 💜✨

Author: @thejooncrew

Genre: strangers to lovers, summer fling, love at first sight, right person wrong time

Synopsis: Being with Namjoon was natural, like two puzzle pieces fitting together, but he wasn’t yours to have. At least, not that summer.

Author: @joheunsaram

Genre: e2l, fluff, smut, slight existential angst

Synopsis: Kim Seokjin’s life was perfect. He had a great job teaching kids to surf, he had great friends who were coming back to town for the summer and he was planning the best party this city would ever see. That is until he ran into his highschool crush and things started not going his way.

Teaser —

Author: @oftenderweapons

Genre: strangers to lovers, musician!yoongi, lifeguard!reader, fluff, smut, slight humour

Synopsis: Yoongi loves his job, his house, his quietly organised world. He likes early morning walks along the shore, when the air is still cool and he can feel the breeze and the waves. And right when night meets morning, he meets you, dawn embodied. Reluctantly, he realises he's growing fond of sunshine.

Strawberry Sundae — OUT NOW!

Author: @hobiandsprite

Genre: f2l, fluff, crack, competitive swimmer!yn, lifeguard!Hobi

Synopsis: A few years after you begin dating Jung Hoseok, the two of you reminisce about how you met when he was a lifeguard and saved you from drowning, when in reality you had just fell off your strawberry floatie and he just wanted to talk to you.

Author: @ironicarmy

Genre: e2l, fluff, smut, light angst, ice cream shop!au, artist!reader

Synopsis: The job is as simple as it gets -- a child could spend the entire day scooping ice cream if paid enough. So why is it so hard to concentrate on your summer job? Easy, the insufferable Park Jimin is your co-worker.

Teaser —

Author: @jjkxla

Genre: strangers to lovers, summer fling, smut, surfer!yn & model!taehyung

Summary: Being a competitive surfer has brought challenges your way ever since you were a child and, wanting to change scenery for a bigger challenge and upcoming competition, you take a solo trip to a coastal town. One challenge you did not expect: trying to ignore your feelings for a guy you just met.

Watermelon Sugar — OUT NOW!

Author: @joonscypher

Genre: s2l, fluff, smut, light angst, surfer!Jungkook

Synopsis: When your friends outvote you for your annual summer trip, you end up stuck at a beachside town. To make it worse, there’s an irritating local surfer boy that won’t leave you alone… that is until you see him shirtless and in the water - then you don’t want him to leave you alone and your unexpected summer romance begins.

Stay tuned my people!

[youtifulhobi]

Strawberry Sundae [JHS]

➴ Pairing: JHS x reader | WC: 6k | Genre: fluff | Rating: PG-13 (see warnings)

➴ Warnings: some swearing, slightly suggestive themes (but nothing overt), vague mentions of alcohol, a gratuitous amount of word vomit about loving our resident sunshine Jung Hoseok, possibly a vomit-inducing amount of cheese and fluff; here are some [nonexistent] insulin pills to deal with the sweetness :)

➴ Tags: slice of life!AU, lifeguard!Hobi, Olympian swimmer!reader | themes: established relationship, flashback, meet cute, vacation

➴ Summary: A few years after you begin dating Jung Hoseok, the two of you reminisce about how you met when he was a lifeguard and saved you from drowning, when in reality you had just fell off your strawberry floatie and he just wanted to talk to you.

➴ A/N: bless @oftenderweapons​ for making this beautiful banner for the collab and letting me use it because yours truly is a big clown and left her writing till literally the very last 24 hours whoops also a HUGE thank you to my beautiful bae @bangtanhome​ for betaing this at the very last second, I love you I love you I love you I love you I love you. I am in awe of your huge brain and fat ass ♡ And also an equally big thank you to my soulmate @joheunsaram​ for betaing this in double quick time and knowing exactly what I was trying to say ♡♡♡

Do not redistribute or plagiarise on any other platforms (including but not limited to wattpad, youtube, instagram, facebook).  I only use tumblr and AO3 as of the time of posting.  If I find my work plagiarised or redistributed without consent, I will not hesitate to take legal action.

You sit at your usual booth at your favourite ice cream parlour, waiting for Hoseok. Your beloved boyfriend, Jung Hoseok, is the light of your life, though he’s often late due to his job as a lifeguard at the only beach in town.

Funnily enough, his job was the reason you met, so you never complained wholeheartedly. As you sit on the lacquered wood, daydreaming about your boyfriend, you don’t notice the gentle tinkling of the bell attached to the door, nor do you notice excited giggles coming from its general direction.

“A Sprite Zero for my favourite customer,” a familiar voice sounds near your ear. Startled out of your reverie, you look up to see a sweet smile, belonging to an old friend.

“Monet!” you squeal, jumping up to hug her. “What are you doing here? I thought you left In The Scoop after graduation!”

Your friend smiles at you as she instinctively reaches out to catch the glass you nearly knocked over in your excitement. “Jimin had some business in the neighbourhood, so we figured we’d pop by to see how this place was doing. Glad to see you and Hobi are still single-handedly keeping the parlour afloat,” Monet jokes, patting your arm.

You laugh with her. “No, that’s not true. I’m sure the parlour would do just fine without us. Speaking of the better half of me, you haven’t seen him, have you?”

Monet nods her head happily. "We saw him. He ducked into a flower shop, but he should be here soon.”

“You couldn’t have waited to tell her that, could you?” a chipper voice sounds moments after a second tinkling of the door chime. Beaming, you turn to face the man you’ve devoted your life to and greet him with a gentle kiss on the lips, to the cheery disgust of your friend.

When you pull apart, Hoseok presents a slightly crumpled bouquet of sunflowers and wildflowers to you with a flourish, signature heart-shaped smile on display.

You squeal happily, not caring that some of the customers were sending dirty looks your way. Actually, maybe you care a little. If a couple engaging in PDA was in your face about it, you’d be annoyed too.

Slightly subdued by your thoughts, you take your boyfriend’s hand and lead him to your booth, offering him a sip of your soda. He grimaces as the taste of artificial sweetener hits his tongue and shudders visibly, at which Monet laughs and leaves to fetch him a “real” Sprite.

“It’s good to see Monet and Jimin again, isn’t it, Hobi?” The man in question hums happily, interlacing his fingers with yours.

“This reminds me a bit of the summer we met, actually,” Hoseok muses. “Do you still remember?”

You giggle lightly, nodding. “Of course! Only you would think a competitive swimmer was drowning.”

3 years ago.

You scanned the sparkling sea, admiring the way the water glinted under the sun’s rays. After placing first in the competition you’d been training well over five years for, you were finally on a well-deserved break. You’d spent the first two days catching up on sleep, to nobody’s surprise, but on day three, you’d woken up early, missing the way it felt to glide through the water, each drop caressing your skin as you moved through your secret underworld.

Maybe secret underworld was the wrong word to use, seeing as it consisted of pool tiles and lane dividers. Moreover, it wasn’t exactly yours, since you shared the training pool with your teammates. Nonetheless, you still enjoyed being in the water, the silence a brief respite from the shrill cry of the whistle that lived in your coach’s mouth during practice.  

But now that you were free of the grating noise of the damned whistle you’d grown to love and hate, you really could take the time to explore another body of water you had adored since you were a child  —  the ocean.

Having found a suitable spot to relax far away from the general hubbub of beachgoers, you set down your things under an umbrella and dragged your favourite floatie down to the water, a blissful smile growing bigger the closer you got to your safe haven.

When you settled back on your brightly coloured strawberry floatie, ready to take a short nap, you looked around for your sunscreen, belatedly realising that it remained tucked away in your bag on the beach. With a groan and a roll of your eyes, you moved to slide off your flotation device, only to have your leg become stuck on a part of your floatie that had somehow remained dry. 

Tugging your leg with increasing force as you grew more frustrated. When you finally yanked it free, you belatedly realised that you’d used too much power, sending you tumbling into the ocean with a loud splash.

You flailed around blindly for a moment before remembering that you could in fact, swim, and resurfaced spluttering and desperately trying to clean the salt water out of your eyes. Contrary to what movies taught the general public, getting salt water (or any kind of liquid that wasn’t made specifically for the eye) into your eye stung.

As you struggled with the vicious cycle of trying to wipe the seawater from your eyes with an equally wet hand, an arm snaked around your waist before pulling you close to a hard chest. Burning eyes temporarily forgotten, you squinted at your human flotation device, only to be met with the face of one of the most handsome men you’d ever seen in your life.

“Are you okay, miss?” the stranger asked, narrowing his eyes in concern.

“Uh, yeah, I’m okay, I wasn’t drowning, but I appreciate it,” you replied, squeezing your eyes tightly in a last ditch effort to rid them of seawater.

“Oh,” came his answer. If you hadn’t been preoccupied with your eyes, you might have picked up on a disappointed tone, but the only thing you were aware of was his lingering hand on your hip.

“Since you know I’m not in mortal peril, could you...remove your hand? It’s making me a little uncomfortable.” You looked at the stranger properly now that the last remnants of the devil’s water were out of your eyes.

He flushed, a beautiful pink tinge dusting his impossibly high cheekbones. “Yeah, of course. I’ll just...go back to my post,” he said awkwardly.

You cocked your head to the side. “Your post?”

“I’m a lifeguard,” he clarified. Understanding dawned on you as you tilted your head back slightly, mouth opening in an ‘o’ of comprehension. Suddenly, everything made sense. He wasn’t some creep that decided to prey on an unsuspecting woman; he was just doing his job.

“If you’d like, you can swim back with me back to shore. I forgot my sunscreen,” you offered, feeling slightly guilty at the way you’d told him off.

The stranger smiled, the corner of his lips lifting as he shot you a heart-shaped smile. “Sure thing. I happen to be going that way too.”

Despite your general intolerance for dumb jokes, you couldn’t stop the giggle that left your mouth at his statement, nor could you stop your heart from skipping a beat.

In an attempt to break whatever tension had suddenly cropped up between you when you caught yourself staring into his eyes for a little longer than social norms deemed appropriate, you turned back to your floatie and began pushing it back to shore, legs defaulting to breaststroke as you hung off its edge.

“My name is Jung Hoseok, by the way.” Looking in the direction his voice came from, you smiled when you realised he’d come to help you push your strawberry floatie back to shore.

“Y/L/N Y/N. Nice to meet you.” 

It took you a few seconds before you realised you were once again alone on your way back to shore, your new companion was now frozen in place when you casually dropped your name. Looking back, slightly concerned, you stifled a giggle when you were met with the sight of the lifeguard doggy-paddling his way to you, eyes widened in admiration.

“You mean…you’re Y/L/N Y/N, the Olympic champion who not only beat her own record, but the world record as well?”

You smiled demurely, still getting used to your newfound fame. “Yeah, that’s me.”

A slightly awkward silence followed your confirmation, Hoseok mulling over his newfound knowledge as he once again helped you move your floatie back to land.

“So…” Hoseok began, shifting from foot to foot as you wiped a few grains of sand from your ankles. “What brings you to Honeycomb Cove?”

“I needed the break,” you began, straightening up. “All my life, since I was old enough to remember, I’ve been training for the Olympics  —  first, it was to see if I could qualify, then it was upwards of 8 hours in the water, training and perfecting techniques, then off to the gym for resistance training and to tone up, then shower, eat, sleep, and repeat.”

You watched with mild amusement as Hoseok’s eyes became wider and wider at your rigorous training schedule, mouth hanging open in astonishment. 

“No wonder you came in first place,” he whispered in awe. “You worked hard for so many years.”

You shook your head, a small smile gracing your lips. “I’m not the only one. Everyone else who participated in the Olympics, regardless of what placement they got, worked equally as hard, if not harder. I was just lucky. I somehow managed to get a good night’s sleep, kept my breakfast down despite my nerves, and I had the most supportive teammates, coach, and family.”

You didn’t know it at the time, but Hoseok would tell you multiple times over the next several years that this display of humility was the moment he began to fall for you.

“I know this could sound totally wrong out of context, but could you help me put sunscreen on my back?” You held the tube of sunblock out to Hoseok, a neat dollop already sitting in the palm of your free hand.

Hoseok winked, picking up on the teasing tone in your otherwise seemingly innocent question. “What, you can’t reach despite all that training?”

“That question would be better suited for a gymnast,” you joked back, rubbing the white liquid onto one of your forearms.

“Touché,” he replied. The conversation ended after his comment, though the silence didn’t seem as stifling as it had been earlier.

It took you a while to finish lathering enough sunscreen to your heart’s content, but once you were finished, Hoseok invited you up to the lifeguard tower, pointing out that despite your eagerness to get into the water, the sunblock still needed a while before you could go back into the ocean.

You accepted happily, grateful for a reason to get out of the scorching sun. The plan had been to spend twenty minutes or so and then bid Hoseok goodbye as you left him to his work, not wanting to distract him, but he proved to be more of a multitasker than you originally thought him to be, often stopping your lighthearted banter to report to his supervisor and colleagues on his station’s situation. As it were, twenty minutes came and went, and you found yourself unwilling to leave Hoseok’s side, too caught up in his easygoing, sunshine-like personality.

At first, you were envious of the way he always managed to find something to smile about, being somewhat of a pessimist yourself, but being around him made you feel lighter, happier, more...complete. The more time you spent around him, the more your envy melted away and gave way to contentment, filling you with a sense of belonging. 

You spent the first week outside your hotel room chatting happily with Hoseok, not caring that your plans had essentially been uprooted. You liked that Hoseok brought out the more rebellious, carefree side of you; the one that threw schedules out the window and lived in the moment.

In your twenty or so years of life, the last time you’d been away from water for so long was the time it took you to grow from a newborn to a two year old, and that had been because you were too young to swim properly. But even then, your parents had begun taking you to the swimming pool everyday starting at 6 months, wanting you to get accustomed to water. But when you were with Hoseok, all your worries melted away. Instead of using water as a means to deal with anxiety, Hoseok had become your new outlet.

By the end of the first week of your vacation, you and Hoseok had exchanged your most embarrassing childhood stories, biggest fears, hopes and dreams, and worst heartbreaks. You’d never grown close to someone so quickly, but something about Hoseok made it okay.

Every morning, you woke up with a smile, knowing you’d see him. With each passing day, you found yourself spending more time on your hair, your clothes, and your appearance. You weren’t stupid. You knew you were falling head over heels for him, and though every ounce of logic screamed at you to be careful, you couldn’t. Because in the span of one week, your world had gone from revolving around swimming and rigorous schedules to revolving around Jung Hoseok, your personal brand of sunshine.

Your heart fluttered at the mere thought of him and pounded wildly within the confines of your ribcage when you were within touching distance, so it didn’t come as a surprise that you had frequent heart palpitations whenever he came too close. But now, when he had you locked in an embrace, ecstatic that you’d agreed to make an appearance at his friend’s nighttime bonfire party on the beach, your heart became suspiciously quiet.

For a moment, you genuinely thought you’d died and gone to heaven, but then he pulled back and left you dazed, staring dumbly at him as every fibre of your being cried out at the sudden loss of contact.

“Are you okay?” he asked, concern marring his beautiful features as he peered at your flushed face.

Suddenly self conscious, you blinked and grinned somewhat stupidly at him. No, you weren’t okay. You never were around him, but you were just a fool in love. Simple as that.

Hoseok laughed and gently ruffled your hair, letting his fingers trail through the flyaway strands. If it were possible to melt, you were sure that you would have at that very moment.

When he stepped away to refill your water bottle after noticing it was empty, you took a moment to recompose yourself. You’d been acting wildly out of character this past week, and for someone that might not even return your affections. If he liked you back, you’d be more than happy to play the part of a lovesick fool, but not before getting confirmation. And certainly not in front of his friends, who you’d only heard about up to this point.

“I’m really happy you’re coming to the party tonight,” Hoseok chirped happily as he let go of the button on the water cooler. “But let me know if it gets too much for you and I can take you back to your hotel. I don’t want you to feel uncomfortable.”

Calm down, you told your heart as it beat wildly out of control. At the end of the day, no matter how much of a gentleman he is, he’s still just another human bein-

Hoseok smiled at you, showing off his pearly white teeth as he held out your water bottle, cocking his head to the side. Fuck it, he’s one of a kind. Who needs a conscience anyway? 

You accepted the bottle with two hands, shooting him a shy smile as your fingers brushed. “Thank you, Hobi. I really appreciate you looking out for me.”

“No problem. I’m just happy to see you outside of work.” Hoseok’s eyes widened and he scrambled to clarify himself, fearing that you would get the wrong idea. “Not that I don’t like seeing you while I’m working! It’s just that we always get interrupted and I’m excited to spend time with you in a more casual setting and…”

Your nerves melted away at the sound of Hoseok’s panicked explanation and you threw your head back and laughed, letting your inhibitions go. “It’s okay, Hobi! I know you wouldn’t look for me every day if you didn’t like spending time with me. But speaking of spending time together, I should go so I have enough time to get dressed for the party. Is there a dress code or something I should be aware of?”

Hoseok shook his head, traces of panic still lingering in his eyes. “No, just dress comfortably and in something you won’t mind getting sand on.”

You smiled at him, wondering how to say goodbye. As you mulled over your farewell, your body acted on its own before your mind had a chance to catch up, and, in a fit of what could only be called insanity, your fingers traced Hoseok’s jawline, gently caressing his skin.

“See you tonight. I’ll be the one in blue.” With a wink, you turned and left his tower, hoping that he wouldn’t notice your shaking legs.

What you didn’t know was how long he stood in the middle of his lifeguard tower after you left, all sorts of emotions running through his body like he’d been electrified. You didn’t know how whipped he was; didn’t know how much longer, if it hadn’t been for the crackle of his radio, he would have stood in place, blushing and grinning into space like an idiot.

You stood in the middle of your hotel room, naked save for the towel wrapped around your torso. Maybe it was a stupid idea to shower before a beach party, but there was something about the way the fresh water trickled down your body that soothed you. That, and also being able to belt out your favourite songs, the shower chamber standing in as a mini concert hall.

Feeling refreshed, you’d decided to take advantage of your good mood, hoping that it would translate to an easier time choosing an outfit to wear to the party, but it turned out to be wishful thinking. Brushing a damp strand of hair out of your face, you finally selected a white one piece swimsuit with a plunging neckline, ignoring the whispered thoughts that your favourite lifeguard would find it too revealing.

You checked your phone, swearing loudly when you realised that you were going to be late, having taken too much time trying to choose the perfect swimsuit. You hurriedly threw on a flowing dress and a wide brimmed hat before running to grab your pre-packed essentials-only purse, silently thanking your past self for being organised and slipping on your favourite pair of sandals, tripping over your feet no less than three times in your haste.

It was only in the taxi back to another section of the beach you had come to know and love that your heart finally began to cease its rapid pitter-pattering, only to start once again much to your chagrin when you remembered that you’d be seeing your favourite lifeguard again.

But nothing could hide the small smile that crept upon your lips at the thought of how his mouth curved into a heart when he smiled, the way he sounded so happy when he laughed and chuckled at everything, and the way he always made sure to pay a little extra attention to you when you were feeling out of sorts, making it a point to make dorky sound effects as he scanned the beach with his binoculars.

Lost in your rose-tinted thoughts, you didn’t realise that you’d arrived at the beach until the taxi driver cleared her throat, a knowing smile on her face. Hastily, you paid her, flushing at being caught daydreaming about the boy you’d fallen head over heels for.

You didn’t get much of a chance to look around in wonder at the way the setting sun made the beach look magical before your vision was obstructed by a mop of platinum blond hair and your ears were assaulted by Hoseok’s cry of joy.

“You made it!” Lean arms wrapped around your frame, squeezing you tightly until you let out a strained cough, at which Hoseok let go immediately, a sheepish expression on his face. “Sorry. I got a little overexcited.”

A snort sounded somewhere behind Hoseok, a mop of dyed red hair gradually coming into view. A man seemingly shorter than Hoseok made his way up the sandy slope, hands in his pockets as he stepped easily over small rocks, extending his hand with an easy smile. “I’m Jimin. It’s nice to meet you, Y/N. Hobi here won’t shut up about you, but I promise, it’s all good things. Did you know that he nicknamed you ‘Otter’ because they’re one of his favourite animals and to quote him, you ‘look so cute and happy' when you’re ‘playing in the water’?”

Jimin giggled at his own comment, eyes turning into crescent moons, as he watched Hoseok’s cheeks begin to redden.

“W-wait, no. I mean, yes, but…” 

You stifled a smile as Hoseok tried to talk his way out of the hole his friend had dug, wondering if you should say something to put the poor boy out of his misery. 

“It’s okay Hobi, I know what you mean.”

“Oh ho, Hobi. I thought that was meant for—” the rest of Jimin’s words were drowned out as his friend clamped a hand over his mouth to prevent him from making the situation any worse.

You giggled and brushed a strand of hair behind your ear, cheeks burning as you looked shyly at your favourite lifeguard. Jimin, noticing that you two were about to have a moment, pointed at a bonfire raging nearby, reassuring you that you weren’t the last to arrive and that the fun had yet to begin.

“Though the best part of the night has already begun for Hobi,” he mumbled under his breath, grinning.

Hoseok growled, having finally lost his patience with his redheaded friend and shoved him towards the crowd gathered around the gigantic pile of burning wood. “Get lost, Jimin!”

“I’m so sorry about him,” Hoseok apologised sheepishly when the troublemaker had disappeared into the throng. “He really doesn’t know when to shut up.”

Your smile widened as you shook your head, indicating that it wasn’t a problem, though you were grateful that Jimin had disappeared. Although you liked Hoseok, it seemed that Jimin was one to push things a little faster than either of you were comfortable with.

“You look—”

“Nice weather for—”

You pressed your lips into a thin line when you realised that in your effort to dispel the awkward silence, you’d begun talking about the weather. Hoseok didn��t help your nerves by staring at you dumbly, as if he couldn’t believe what you’d done either.

Frantically thinking of an excuse to leave and bury yourself somewhere under the sand, you blurted out something that you would have traded years of small talk to take back. “I’m really sorry about that. It’s just…you make me really nervous because I have the biggest crush on you!”

Time came to a standstill. Hoseok’s dumbfounded expression morphed into one of shock as the weight of your confession sank in, and you truly wished that it was possible for the ground to swallow a human being whole.

“You know what? I’m just gonna...go…” You began backing away, a mortified smile on your lips as you took a few shaky steps back, hands up in a placating gesture.

“Wait! Don’t go!” Hoseok called out to you, an arm stretched out to grab your elbow before you could leave him.  “I thought I’d get the chance to confess first, but I really like you too.”

You froze; one foot arched mid-step so that the soft sand tickled the tips of your toes, as your brain worked through Hoseok’s sudden confession. He liked you back.

“Actually…” Hoseok began, gaze suddenly glued to the floor as a light pink dusted his cheekbones, “do you think we could...make this our first date?”

You beamed at his question, heart leaping into overdrive as you boldly took his hand and nodded your affirmation.

“So…” you began, suppressing a cheeky smile as Hoseok guided you to where the party was, “tell me about my new nickname.”

You were grateful for the alcohol provided. Without it, you may not have mustered the courage to join the beach volleyball game that some of the other partygoers were participating in, because though you were a household name, you were still a shy, introverted girl at heart who did better in small groups.

You cheered as one of your teammates launched a spike that won the match point, secretly thankful that the game was finally over. The light sheen of sweat that covered your body had become a sticking point for far too many grains of sand for your liking, and there was nothing you’d rather do than wash it off in the ocean.

Bidding a goodbye to the other partygoers, you walked away from the group that was now clamouring to take over the spot you had just vacated, wanting a turn to play as well.

Hoseok found you standing at the very point where the sea met the land, sighing happily as the water dripped from your hair, having gotten out just a minute prior.

“Hey,” he smiled, lifting up one of the paper plates he held as an explanation.

“Hey,” you replied, smiling back at him. Silently, you accepted the food from Hoseok and stood next to him, munching away as the two of you stood side by side, looking at the dark horizon that had settled now that the moon had risen.

The sound of waves gently lapping at the white grains of sand calms your otherwise rapid heartbeat. And through the dark navy and grey colours of the night, the warmth of a tiki torch casts a soothing orange to contrast the otherwise colourless beach.

You quite enjoyed this colour scheme, though most places were too dark for you to see. It was like the moon had selected certain aspects of the party for you to turn your attention to, other details blending into the inky darkness of the night sky.

And yet Jung Hoseok was the only partygoer that seemed to have the moon’s blessing.

You snuck a few glances at him, taking in the way the light traced the curves of his jawline and highlighted his tall nose while shrouding his eyes in the dark. It was as if he’d stepped out of a fantasy novel, where his intentions were hidden behind a thick wall and impenetrable façade he’d built to protect himself and you were the main character, unaware of what he was plotting.

But this was real life, and from what you knew of him, nothing but kindness lay behind his eyes.

Shoving the last bit of bread into your mouth, you turned to Hoseok, only to catch him staring at you as one of your cheeks bulged, giving you the appearance of a chipmunk. You couldn’t stop the embarrassed smile that spread across your lips as Hoseok pointed and giggled loudly, though you tried to plead with him through hand gestures to stop laughing, as his joy was infectious and it was making you dangerously close to joining him and accidentally spitting out your food.

When you finally managed to swallow the lump of food, you had tears in your eyes from laughing, exacerbated by remembering a story Hoseok had once told you about Seokjin egging Jungkook on and telling him that he liked the feeling of choking when swallowing food.

“Hoseok,” you finally said, throat sore from forcing down the ball of food, “remind me never to look at you when I have food in my mouth ever again.”

Hoseok wiped away his own tears of mirth, a few stray giggles still escaping from time to time as he agreed to your suggestion of returning to the party. He held out a hand for you to take, long fingers interlacing with yours as he led the way to the bonfire where partygoers had made themselves at home in the sand, drinking and playing games.

You felt relaxed, thanks to a combination of warmth from both the bonfire and alcohol as well as a feeling of belonging when you rested your head on Hoseok’s shoulder. You’d dozed off once or twice, feeling content and safe, but you didn’t mind. 

No, you didn’t mind in the slightest. Until you heard the faint sounds of police sirens growing louder and the police van that stopped a ways from the beach, flashing blue and red lights illuminating the figures that stepped off the vehicle and made their way to the beach.

Your heart stopped, eyes widening as you made the split second decision to grab Hoseok’s hand and haul ass off the beach, fearing that if you were caught, your reputation would be ruined and you’d never be allowed to swim again.

You only stopped once to wait for Hoseok as he stumbled and nearly fell face first into the sand, unaware of what was happening, and then the two of you were sprinting away into the darkness, not caring that you’d caused pandemonium with your abrupt departure. 

Because right now, it was you or them. 

The other partygoers wouldn’t have their faces slapped on newspaper headlines the next day, denouncing them for a harmless bit of fun on the beach, but you would. It had already been difficult enough to get to where you were now, being a female existing in a man’s world. Michael Phelps’s reputation survived his scandal, but yours wouldn’t.

When you and Hoseok had put a respectable amount of distance between yourselves and the party, you leaned against the nearest tree, wheezing out an apology as you put your hands on your knees.

“I’m...so sorry...about that,” you gasped, explaining why you’d fled the scene in between breaths. 

Hoseok waved his hand in the air after your explanation, equally as winded. He didn’t want you to apologise for something that was out of your control. While he would have appreciated a heads up instead of the handful of sand that had narrowly missed his eyes as he fell when you tried to yank him up, all he cared about was that you were safe. And if you were safe, he’d run an extra five hundred miles to keep it that way.

“I’m sorry about tonight,” Hoseok frowned. “This wasn’t how I envisioned our first date going.”

You laughed, appreciating the way he’d lightened the situation. Slowly, you leaned in to press a chaste kiss to his cheek, missing the way his eyes widened in surprise and the way his cheeks grew red under your lips.

“You have plenty of chances to make it up to me.”

Present.

“The usual strawberry sundae that my favourite couple has been ordering every Sunday ever since they met,” Monet announces as she sets down a glass bowl decorated with strawberry cheesecake ice cream decorated with slices of strawberries and dollops of whipped cream.

“Mmmm!” You lick your lips in anticipation as you pick up a spoon to dig into a particularly large clump of cream, but stop when it hits something hard.

You furrow your eyebrows and brush away the cream with your spoon to reveal a plastic ball sitting on a small decorative bowl nestled neatly in between scoops of ice cream. “Monet? Where’d she go?”

You move to look at Hoseok, directing the question to him, only to raise an eyebrow when you find him standing to peer at the ball you’d uncovered. Your confusion only grows when he plucks the ball out of the sticky confection and wipes it off before kneeling on the floor in front of you.

And then it hits you. The flowers. Why the normally early Jung Hoseok was running late today. Why Monet and Jimin had made a surprise appearance at the ice cream parlour. Why Monet and Jimin had been sneaking giggles at you the whole time you relived the beginning of your love story with Hoseok. Why the ice cream had taken an absurd amount of time to arrive. The revelation hits you like a 2-tonne truck, much like it had when you realised you’d fallen in love with Jung Hoseok.

He’s proposing. 

Taking a deep, shaky breath, Hoseok's smile wavers slightly as he tries to hold back his tears. “Y/N, I fell for you the moment I saw you. I’m so glad you fell off your strawberry floatie, not because it embarrassed you, but because it gave me an excuse to talk to you. I’ve never met an accomplished person that manages to stay as humble as you do. You never take things for granted, you always make sure to thank everyone even when it was primarily your win, and I love you for that. I love everything that you are and everything that you stand for. I love the way your eyes crinkle in the sun when you’ve forgotten to bring your sunglasses so you have to borrow mine. I love the way you snort when you laugh, I love the way you complain that summer is too hot for cuddling, but you can’t fall asleep without holding me. 

“I love how you always find something to work for and the way you’re not afraid to put in the hours and effort to make it happen. I love the way you constantly push me to be my very best and support me, even when I fail. I love everything about you, because you’re my very own brand of perfection, no matter what you say. Sometimes I still wonder how I, a dinky little lifeguard from a small town, managed to land the most gorgeous, talented, caring, loving, and happiest woman in the world, but then you remind me how well we fit together, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. So, what I’m trying to say is…”

You feel the tears spilling from your eyes as Hoseok tearily professes his love for you, fingers trembling as he tries again and again to open the plastic ball. You lean forward and encase his hands in yours, helping him to open the case as best as you can despite your blurry vision. You giggle quietly at his inopportune clumsiness, heart melting as you look at the love of his life.

When you succeed, Hoseok smiles at you, lower lip quivering with emotion as he finishes his speech and holds the ring out to you. “Will you marry me and give me the chance to spend the rest of my life showing you how much I love you?”

You let out a sob and throw yourself at Hoseok, wrapping him in an embrace that you hope conveys your feelings. 

“Yes!” you squeal excitedly, watching Hoseok beam widely at your acceptance.

“Yes,” you whisper quietly, more tears spilling out of your eyes.

And you repeat the words until you’re breathless and you sound like a broken record, unable to form any other coherent words to convey the love you had for the man you held close to your heart.

“Yes, I will marry you.”

You and Hoseok don’t hear the thunderous applause of the patrons and onlookers in the ice cream parlour where your love story had blossomed. You don’t see anyone except the love of your life in front of you, somehow still breathtakingly gorgeous as tears of joy roll down his cheeks. You don’t feel anything except euphoria and the way your fiancé’s fingers feel around yours as he slides the engagement ring on your finger.

You don’t feel anything but a giddy sort of anticipation as you pull him in for a kiss, eager to begin the rest of your lives together.

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed this fic. Please consider reblogging so that others are able to find my work! It gives me a lot of motivation to continue writing.

MList

“Strawberry Sundae [JHS]” is © copyright @hobisuniverse​ 2021, all rights reserved.

[lfklhp]

Hoseok 🐿 Fic Rec

Note.

💜 = personal favorites / ✓ = completed / ✐ = ongoing / ✗ = discontinued, hiatus / strike through = deactivated, deleted

Oneshots/Drabbles

Supernatural / Fantasy / Magic/ Superhero AU

My Moon (5.6k) s | werewolf au

Part of the wolf au by the author

Bad Beta, Sweet Beta (5.6k) s, f | werewolf au, beta hoseok, brother's best friend

Part of the Bad And Sweet Trilogy

Run Little Rabbit (15.3k) s, little a & f | wolf shiter hoseok x rabbit shifter reader, college

Orectic (21k) f s | hybrid au

Polaris (11.5k) f, s | time traveler au

2 a.m. (0.4k) f

Remember Me Not (14.5k) heavy a | fantasy au, genie au

Novae (1.8k) a, f

Η πρώτη έκλειψη* (1.6k+) f | fallen gods au

Between Heaven and Hell (19.5k) a, f | war au, god au

Part of The Worshiper Series

Hello, Sunshine (3.7k) f | soulmate au, reincarnation au

Bonus Part: Here Comes the Sun (7.7k) a, f

Part of the Recordatio Series

Head over Heels to Hell (27.5k) f, a | reverse soulmate au, historical au, childhood friends to enemies to lovers

Hogwarts AU

Let the Games Begin (19.5k) f | hogwarts, enemies to lovers

Part of The Reputation series

Glistening Night (3.7k) s

Friends / FWB / Sibling’s Friend (vice versa) / Step-Sibling AU

Spaces in Between (11.7k) s f a | best friends to lovers, fwb

Midnight Confessions 💜 (26.8k) f s | best friends to lovers, mutual pining, buzzfeed unsolved au

Snowed In (15k) s, f | best friends to lovers. domestic au

Project Dream Girl 💜 (35k) f, a, eventual s | christmas au, childhood friends to lovers

Cry to My Room (17.6k) a, s | friends to lovers, roommate au

College / High School / School AU

Not Interested (20k) s, f, a | college au, swimmer au, enemies to lovers

Starting Again (11k) f | professor/adult student, single parent au

Other AUs

Dust of Snow (14.8k) a f s | soulmate, fake dating

If I Could Tell Her (16k) f, a | college au, fake dating au

I Flirt in #MyCalvins light s | underwearmodel hoseok

Hot Rod (10k) s, f | 1950s au (greaser hoseok x reader)

Part of the Rewind series

Matters of the Heart (13k) romance, s | victorian au

Part of the A Very, Merry Fic-Mas!

Head In The Clouds (9.1k) s | strangers to lovers, mile high club

Madeleine (20.9k) f, a, s | arranged marriage

Silver Bells and Cockle Shells (22.2k) a, f, s | widowed dad

Sequel: Sleigh Bells Ring (10.2k) f | christmas au (Part of the 12 Days of Bangtan)

Part of the Bound series

Blue Side a | hanahaki au, fwb

Need a Fix (7.2k) a, f, s | pharmacist, hanahaki au, unrequited love, age gap, co-workers to lovers

Crashing into You 💜 (28.8k) s, a, light f | mafia/gang au

For the First Time (What’s Past Is Past) (15.7k) f, light a, eventual s | neighbor au

Intertwine (14.4k) s, a bit a | exes au

Epilogue: Tidal Waves (11.4k) s, a

Completed Series

Bloom eventual s | brother’s best friend (3 ch ✓)

Jungle Park 💜 f | workplace romance, co-workers to lovers (24 ch ✓)

Part of The Slice of Life Series

Incompleted Series

Hope World a | dancers (6 ch ✗ - Dec 5, 2019)

[absentcaryatid]

AbsentCaryatid Masterlist by Tropes and Themes

A sampling of my ATEEZ and a few BTS stories. Most of these are humor so your mileage may vary, satisfaction not guaranteed. Gender neutral reader unless mentioned otherwise. Most recent addition is marked by an asterisk.

Amnesia- Between Mingi and Yunho  

Anal Penetration- Hongjoong’s Tender Care

Cheating- In Love with a Married Man with Seonghwa

Mingi Cheated So You Cheated Back agender she/her reader

Choking- Angel’s Dilemma with Yunho, she/her reader

Collar- San’s Girl, You Belong to Jungkook

Dacryphilia- Tears with Seonghwa

Demon AU- Mingi’s New Job

First Time- Our First Time with Mingi (she/her reader), Hongjoong Helps a Friend

Forced Marriage- By Order of the King with Hoseok, female reader

Hotwifing- On Loan to Jongho wife reader

Marriage- San’s Wedding

Nickname- Baby Girl with Mingi

Only One Bed- Mingi Cheated So You Cheated Back Poly Mingi, Yunho, x Reader

Panty Sniffing- Three Guys and Your Underwear with Yeosang, Hongjoong, and Seonghwa

Size- The Quest to Fit Yunho, My Yunho

* Soulmates- Fated to be Together Mingi & reader

Tentacle- The Swimmer with Namjoon, AFAB reader, no pronouns used