#taking the time to appreciate the scenery and each other

[kuurechr]

TEENAGERS SCARE THE LIVIN' SHIT OUT OF ME

Summary : After ten years in prison, Sukuna returns home. Unfortunately for him, with time comes change. And the worst change he has to deal with is the fact that his kids have become full blown teenagers. Warnings : inaccurate prison and police related stuff probably, exposition , and teenagers, awkward-ness

You slowly drove down the street, letting Sukuna take in the scenery of what was once a familiar home. “Anything changed ‘round here?” Sukuna asked, frowning as he spotted one of the houses with a lack of a chair on the porch. 

“A lot,” you nodded, watching as he held the bag of KFC close to his stomach. “But let's take things one at a time. First, the kids.” 

Sukuna sighed, nodding, turning dead silent as you quietly drove into the driveway of your home. As you took out the keys, turning off the engine and shutting off the radio that had been quietly playing in the background, Sukuna slumped in his seat. 

“They probably don’t wanna have a weird reunion at twelve forty two in the morning,” Sukuna said, his voice gruff. “I’ll just stay in the car.” 

You scoffed, taking the bag of KFC from his hands, and opening the door on your side. “I bet they’re still waiting for you, ‘Kuna.” Unbuckling your seatbelt, you looked at him pointedly. “And you know they’ve been waiting a long time.” 

Sukuna appreciated that you stepped out of the car, gently closing the door behind you, so as to not alert the kids that you were here. Sukuna took his time, taking a deep breath and checking the mirrors in the car to look at himself. He had always been a scary looking guy – his tattoos and his larger figure didn’t help him look all that gentle – but prison had somehow made him look even more gruff. 

He had shaven, trying to make himself look cleaner, but nothing could really hide the fact that he had aged in ten years. He pulled at his eyes, trying to make them less tired-looking… but Sukuna just looked like that. He couldn’t help it. 

He bit his cheek, trying to keep himself from frowning, or having any sort of resting annoyed face on him, but it just made him look more pissed off. 

Tap, Tap, Tap. 

Sukuna turned his head to the side, to see you looking through the window, waiting outside the car patiently. Sukuna opened the door, but stayed seated. You smiled awkwardly. “Need more time?” 

Sukuna huffed. “I need all the time in the fucking world.” 

You chuckled softly, rubbing your hand soothingly across his large arms. “Well… sitting here won’t give that to you.” 

“I know,” he huffed. “But if I go in there…” Sukuna swallowed, staring down at the glovebox. “There’s a chance that I’m gonna ruin everything before they even give me a second.” 

Your hands stopped at his words. Chewing your lips, you contemplated your next words. 

When you decided on them, you put down the bag of KFC in his lap again. Your hands reached out to rest on his jaw, tilting his face slightly so he had to look at you. You looked up into his eyes, smiling softly. “‘Kuna… they’re teenagers. At this age, they’re not even going to give you a millisecond.” 

Sukuna’s eyes slightly widened, before he decided to scoff, looking away from you. “Nice to know you haven’t been cheating – no way you could’ve kept a man with these comforting skills.” 

You giggled. “I’m being honest. I thought after being married so long we could tell each other everything.”

“Never meant I wanted to hear about your intense diarrhea when you came to visit me. Even the guards gave you dirty looks over that, ya know?” 

“‘Kuna,” you giggled even more, lowering your head as you tried to compose yourself. “I’m trying to be serious here.” 

Sukuna sighed, placing his hands over the KFC bag, the crinkling sound much louder than the faint sound of crickets in the night. “Should just get it over with before this goes cold, huh?” 

You nodded. “The stomach is the way to teenagers’ hearts.” 

“Isn’t it a womans’ heart?”

“Same thing,” you huffed, moving away and looking over at the house. You peered into one of the windows upstairs, that had the blinds slightly ajar. For some reason, when you had narrowed your eyes onto it, it went back to normal. “Okay,” you looked back at Sukuna. “Do you need more time?” 

Sukuna shook his head. “Quit babyin’ me. Those three aren’t gonna be as nice as you are and you’re not properly preparin’ me.” 

“Okay,” you grinned, stepping back as Sukuna got out of the car. “Imagine three of you, at different temperament levels – and that’s what you’re dealing with!” 

Closing the door behind him, Sukuna rolled his eyes at you, walking away, towards the door. You gasped, lifting up your keys to lock the car, as you followed after him. 

“You’re still so sassy at your old age, huh?” 

“All three of them get that, too?” 

You groaned dramatically. “You’ll finally get to see what dealing with you is like.” 

Sukuna scoffed, lifting up his fingers to ring the doorbell. 

But your hand quickly slapped his away. 

Sukuna turned his head, to see you, with your eyes wide and your stance rigid. The sound of the slap felt like it echoed in the silent, cold night air. Even the crickets went quiet. “What?” Sukuna asked, breaking the silence with a quiet voice. 

“We…” You moved forwards to take his hand, rubbing it softly to silently apologize for hurting him. It didn’t do much besides leave a slight sting for a moment, but that was probably just because of the shock. “We don’t ring the doorbell.” 

Sukuna’s breath stilled. 

“Right.” He lifted his hand away from yours and held it at the door, ready to knock. “You guys have a pattern or something?” 

You shook your head. Sukuna went ahead and knocked, trying to let the sound be as soft as possible. It took a few moments before he heard hesitant footsteps at the door. Slowly, he heard the click of the lock, before the door was opened. 

Kita was the one to open it. He was used to seeing you, he barely spared you a glance. His eyes were locked in on Sukuna, and his giant frame. Kita had shot up in height over the past year, and while he stood taller than every other first year in the area, he was nowhere near the height of his father. 

As Kita scanned Sukuna, Sukuna did the same to his son. The last time either had seen each other was Kita’s fifteenth birthday, when you had dragged him to visit Sukuna. Kita had been very upset, and his attitude hadn’t pleased Sukuna in the slightest. Both of their grumpy attitudes had you close to tears, when it was supposed to be a nice visit. 

So, to avoid your tears (and each other), Kita hadn’t come to visit. 

Kita had very dark hair, slicked back in the style that Sukuna also had it in. He had a small scar under his left eye, one he’d gotten when he had tried climbing the counter that the TV was on top of – after that sharp corner had almost ‘gouged’ his eyes out (according to you), Sukuna had to buy a bunch of baby proofed furniture for his two year old troublemaker. 

When he looked at the kid, he saw an almost carbon copy of himself. Kita just had a few softer features than he did. But, that was something he would probably grow out of, with age. 

“Hey…” Kita said hesitantly, leaving out the ‘pa’ he’d been much more comfortable saying over the phone. He glanced down at the KFC in Sukuna’s hand. “You got it.” 

Sukuna shrugged. “It’s not that hard to win a fight against your ma.” 

Kita’s lips almost twitched into a grin, and he looked at Sukuna knowingly. “I’m sure she let you have this one.” He held his hand out for the KFC. 

Sukuna, letting out a grunt, handed it over. You slid past Kita, stepping into the house and taking off your shoes. “Where are the other two?” 

As Kita stepped back inside, his hands already digging into the bag, Sukuna hesitantly took his first step into the house. You and Kita were so natural. You hung the keys without even looking at the key holder, and then you turned while you took off your coat, to hang it up in the closet. 

You moved with instinct, and Sukuna had to think to just step inside. 

“Suiko’s sleeping, Kagu is still up, I’m pretty sure.” 

“He’s still studying?” You asked, brows furrowed. 

“Nah,” Kagu replied. “He’s playing video games or something. Suiko told him to be asleep before you got here but…” Kita just shrugged, moving away from the front door, to the kitchen. 

You looked back at Sukuna, who was leaning against the door he had closed and locked, taking in the house. You looked at him carefully, speaking quietly. “We’ve moved some stuff around over the years but… never really bought anything new. Furniture’s gotten real expensive.” 

Sukuna’s eyes slowly went over everything. Where it was. Where it used to be. Pictures on the wall. Many old, but many new. Well painted walls, covering up the chips that used to be there ten years ago. It was clean, much cleaner than it used to be when young children took up the house. The only mess he really saw was a bag of chips on the couch, but that was for sure Kita. 

Wordlessly, you tugged at Sukuna’s coat. He leaned forwards, helping you take it off of him. Before you could hang it up for him, Sukuna just shook his head and pulled his coat away from you, walking over to the closet himself. 

He opened it and his eyes immediately caught onto a specific coat. Sukuna hung his own, before pulling out his leather jacket from high school. With a slight grin, he looked at you. “You still have this?” 

“It’s technically Suiko’s now,” you hummed, coming closer to get a feel of it. “It’s vintage.” 

Sukuna grinned, leaning down to get closer to you and eyeing you knowingly. “Does she know what we did with this back in the vintage days?” 

You covered your mouth, holding back a snort, and using your free hand to push him, making him put the jacket back in the closet. “She’d burn her skin if she found out,” you answered. “Do not tell her.” 

“What?” Sukuna asked, raising a brow at you. “You painted yourself as a saint while I was gone? You know you’re far from that.” 

“And our teen aged children don’t have to know that until they are…” You tapped your chin, pretending to be in though. “Twenty five.” When Sukuna sent you a flat look, you giggled, shoving his shoulder. “What?” 

“Twenty five? What stupid book did you get that from?” 

“It’s when the brain stops developing,” you replied. 

Sukuna scoffed, kicking his shoes off. “Is that what they’re saying nowadays?” 

“Yeah,” you said, crossing your arms and tilting your head at him, teasing. “Keep up with the times, old man.” 

Sukuna grinned, curling his arm around your waist, about to pull you close when a voice from upstairs called out. “Mom?” Sukuna’s head immediately turned to the meek voice that called out. You pat his back, while pulling away, looking up the stairs as you called back.

“Hungry?” 

“Yeah,” he replied. 

“Come on down,” you said. “Dad bought you KFC.” 

Sukuna sensed some hesitance, but Kagu came down the stairs, slow as to avoid making eye contact with his father, probably. When Sukuna could see his son entirely, he saw the careful, wide eyed expression on his face. 

Very unlike Kita. 

“Hi…” Kagu said, clearly unsure, as he came down the stairs. 

Kagu used to visit much more often when he was young, basically attached to your side. But as he got more praise for his academics at school, you said it began to take over his life. He started to refuse to come visit Sukuna because the trips took too long, and he would lose precious time that could be spent doing something ‘actually productive.’ 

“Hey, Kagu,” Sukuna nodded at him. Kagu also differed from Sukuna and Kita when it came to looks. While Kita and even Suiko had very much gotten Sukuna’s genetics, all of Kagu’s face was just a carbon copy of yours. It wasn't something to complain about honestly, but it was weird to get used to in person.

“Go get the food from Kita,” you said. As Kagu walked away, clearly in a hurry to get away from Sukuna, you called after him. “You’re getting up before noon, okay? We’re having guests over tomorrow.” 

Kita, from the kitchen, groaned. Kagu just shrugged and said a quick, “Okay,” before walking to the kitchen to get some chicken. 

You didn’t even acknowledge Kita’s complaint, and instead, tugged at Sukuna’s clothes while calling out to the boys. “Pa and I are going to bed! The two of you better be asleep in the next hour.” 

“It’s bad to sleep right after you eat,” Kita argued. “Right, Kagu?" You were sure Kagu just nodded his head, more focused on the chicken, but that was enough confirmation for Kita. “Kagu agreed!” 

“I’ll make sure you two don’t get fast food for the rest of the month if you don’t sleep,” you threatened, before fully dragging Sukuna up the stairs with you. The boys halfheartedly agreed, knowing you wouldn’t care to hear them out anyway. Sukuna was in his head about Kita barely acknowledging his presence, letting you pull him around, until you began to give him a little updated tour of the house. 

“The bathroom hasn’t really changed,” you said, leading the way down the hallway that was upstairs. You pointed at the doors, explaining the room arrangements. “This is Kagu’s room – Kita used to sleep here, too, before high school.” 

“Right, he lives at the fancy private school now?” 

You nodded. “Visits for weekends, though,” you explained, before gesturing to another room, with a large ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign taped on the door. “That is Suiko’s room.” 

Sukuna scowled. “Who does she think she is?” 

“The boys have a bad habit of just storming into rooms,” you huffed, passing by and flicking the sign. “If anything, she saves them from her wrath by doing this.” The door next to Suiko’s room was the bathroom. “The kids all share this one,” you said, opening the door to it, and wincing once you saw the mess inside. 

Sukuna looked over your head to look as well, and almost gasped. 

“The fuck are all those things?” 

“Suiko’s a girl–” 

“And she needs all that shit to stay that way?” 

You scoffed. “Teenagers are just like that.”

“You weren’t like that,” Sukuna pointed out. 

“I could barely afford my uniform,” you argued. “And anyways, you were like that. Kita is just like you, that drawer right there is just filled with hair gel.” 

“I didn’t use that much–” 

“I remember trying to run my hands through your hair once, and it was just rock solid.” 

Sukuna glared down at you. “I think you’re confusing me for one of your exes.” 

“Oh, because I have so many,” you replied sarcastically, closing the bathroom door. 

Sukuna huffed. “Why don’t we check out some of your other old jackets?”

You grinned up at him. “One time! One jacket, I kept from an ex! And we literally gave it away!” 

“Do you see me with my exes hair ties?” Sukuna replied, brows furrowed. He began to walk toward the master bedroom. The room that you were most excited about when Sukuna had been the one to show you around the house when he had bought it. The room that you had shared with all of your kids, with their little crib in the corner, making the largest bedroom in the house just a little more cramped. 

You followed after him. “A hair tie is like two cents, that jacket was probably the most expensive thing I’ve ever worn,” you huffed. “Why are we even arguing over this? It was like twenty years ago. I barely remember it.” 

“Sure,” Sukuna huffed, opening the door to the room and stepping inside. “Do you remember crying because I smelt like some womens’ perfume after I was trapped in an elevator with some group of bachelorette party girls?” 

“I was pregnant and sensitive to smells,” you quickly sniped back, as you usually did whenever he brought this up to counter you. “And I was worried for your safety.” 

Sukuna grinned. “Kita was right. It’s harder now, winnin’ against you.” 

You simply rolled your eyes at him, shutting the bedroom door behind you, as you pointed to the bathroom. “Please do not shit on the creams that I have in there – I, uh, stocked up on the gel that you use for your hair.” 

“Ha ha,” Sukuna huffed, going to the bathroom. “What else you got in there for me? A bubble bath?”

You frowned, genuinely regretting not having thought of that. “I would’ve but the day just came so quickly, I didn’t have time to restock on bath bombs.” 

Sukuna’s brows furrowed. “The hell is a bath bomb?” 

You shook your head, waving him off. “Not important. I have clothes for you in there, I’m guessing your old clothes don’t fit you as well, ‘cause you’re all…” You gestured to his body, tight in the clothes that you had brought up to the prison. “You know.” 

Sukuna smirked, crossing his arms. “What?” 

You bit your cheek, holding back a grin. “You know.” Walking closer, you raised your hand to lazily punch his stomach... which felt rock solid. “Jeez. Maybe I don’t know,” you muttered. 

“Wanna find out?” 

You looked up at him, as he raised a brow at you, that stupid sleazy look on his face. Sukuna saw as, instead of contemplating the idea, you began to take his face in. You had kind of just ran up to him and brought him into a hug the second you were allowed to touch him at the prison. And since then, while you’ve been watching his expressions… you hadn’t really looked at him. Taken him in.

And seen how he’d changed. 

You brought your hand up, brushing your fingers over his ear. “They closed.” Sukuna was almost taken aback by the sudden switch up, but he knew how easily your mood could be swayed, by just lingering thoughts in your head.

“You knew that,” Sukuna hummed, bringing his hands up to rest on your hips. “You were all sad. Tears in your eyes and everythin’.” 

“You don’t think I was crying over my husband being in prison?” You asked, pressing your lips together as you focused on his ears for another moment. Sukuna didn’t answer that, and let you continue the conversation. “Wanna get them pierced again?” 

“‘Course,” Sukuna hummed. 

You looked up at his eyes. Eyes you used to love looking at, intimidating, rare, red. The eyes you had only been able to see every day through your eldest two kids, who sometimes refused to come out of their rooms as they got older. 

Your hands moved from his ear to above his eyes. His left eyebrow, on your right, where he usually had two slits, was gone. “And the eyebrow slits? You think you’re too old for that, yet?” 

Sukuna squeezed your hip, his nails digging into your skin playfully. “I’m not gonna shut up when you turn forty.” 

You frowned. “Yeah, you will,” you said, your hands coming up to run through his hair. “You’ll be long dead by the time I get to that age.” 

Sukuna smirked, bringing his hand up to pinch your cheek. “You know what, you’re right. Living with my almost forty wife who still acts fourteen, will kill me.”

You giggled, pulling your face away from his hands. “Okay, okay, listen, ‘Kuna.” As Sukuna kept trying to pinch you, you still laughed, but brought your hand up to cover his and keep them away. “Listen,” you whined. “Serious, it’s about Suiko.” 

Sukuna relented, bringing his hand down, watching you carefully as you looked up at him with hopeful eyes. 

“I think you could connect with her well, if you get everything – your piercing and eyebrow slits, and stuff – with her.” 

Sukuna’s brows furrowed. “What do they allow at school nowadays?” 

You groaned. “After graduation, ‘Kuna. Seriously, though,” you said. “She’s just like you. The pink hair, piercings, the eyebrow slits, she wants it all – if it wouldn’t kick her out of school, I would let her, but I’ve been telling her 'just wait for after graduation and you can go with your pa' … and you’re here now.”

Sukuna still frowned. “I don’t want her being all… what if she gets caught up with the wrong typa people?” 

“She’s smarter than that,” you huffed. “She understands the consequences of looking all intimidating. She’s lived with that her whole life – she has your face." Sukuna pinched your cheek again and you laughed. "Your adorable, loveable face," you giggled, trying to pull off his hand again. "Just… don’t be all traditional and against it when she brings it up, okay? You did all this at her age, too.” 

“And I got a girl pregnant around this age, too,” Sukuna argued. 

“The girl you got pregnant didn’t do any of that and still got pregnant, so, no correlation, really,” you bit back. 

Sukuna narrowed his eyes on you. “Have I gotten rusty, or have you gotten really good?” 

You grinned up at him cheekily. “I haven’t won an argument against these kids in ten years – if you can’t handle me, good luck with them.” 

“Oh, I’ll handle them,” Sukuna scoffed.

He didn't know what he was in for.

chapter one | chapter two | chapter three

Taglist : @illuzminate @matcha-kitty13 @seellove @getosh0e @dovey-quacks2332 @dreamingoftomorrow @universal-s1ut @ane5e @jungkookswifeeeeeee @womenlover4eva @maidofking123 @angelcake999 @sinyaaa @evnyy @1-rxse-1

[iguessitsjustme]

[tbaluver]

S/O With Depression- The Love And DeepSpace Men

parings in order: Xavier x Reader, Zayne x Reader, Rafayel x Reader, Sylus x Reader, Caleb x Reader requested by: anonnie ⋆˚꩜｡ genre: comfort a/n: hihi lovelies! ⸜(｡˃ ᵕ ˂ )⸝♡ i would like to mention that everyone has different types of depression and goes through different things! i wrote the ones i’m familar with and what the anonnie requested! what might be common for me or from the anonnie that requested can be completely different to someone else! if you want to see more then i’ll write a part 2! hopefully this brings some comfort to those that need it enjoy reading! <3 any likes and reblogs are always appreciated! enjoy!

⋆｡‧˚ʚ♡ɞ˚‧｡⋆

Xavier:

Will do his best to be a light and source of comfort for you

Xavier would stay close when getting out of bed feels impossible. But if you needed space, he’d respect that, keeping you company from a small distance in bed to remind you that you’re not completely alone. He wouldn’t let you stay curled up in bed for too long. He’d gently carry you to the kitchen to make sure you’re fed.

On days when your words don’t come easily and your thoughts feel jumbled, he never interrupts or rushes you. He stays quiet, a hand on top of yours, nodding along while letting you speak at your own pace even if your sentences come out jumbled. Occasionally, he might ask a question to understand the context. When you do finish what you’ve needed to say, he’ll work through it together with you

If you were taking any medications, he’ll go through the entire packet and read through any information about it online. He’ll remember all the side effects that come with it and checks up on you whenever you take them

When every little sound starts to feel like it was too much, he draws the curtains and does everything he can to make it more peaceful. He moves carefully, no sudden sounds will be made in this household. Even the way he eats or shifts in his seat would become more gentler. If you were comfortable with it, Xavier would gather you into his arms, holding you close against his chest. His hand rest gently over your ear, blocking out whatever noise is left.

Xavier would offer to listen and be the place where you can let it out. But if it’s an unexplainable feeling that you just can’t put into words then he’ll find a different way to cheer you up. He’ll settle beside you, pulling up your favorite comfort shows and have your snacks ready

Zayne:

Whenever getting out of bed feels like too much, he’ll leave a warm cup of tea and a few slices of fruit or your favorite snacks by the bedside table. He never rushes you so he waits. Sometimes he’ll sit nearby so you don’t feel alone. Other times, he gives you the space you want, trusting that you’ll reach out when you’re ready. But when it starts to feel like too much and the silence grows too heavy, he will step in. Never forcefully. He’ll encourage you to start off slow, a hand on yours. Maybe something as simple as sitting up or maybe just brushing your teeth.

Anytime you went through a depressive episode, Zayne has no problem doing the extra housework or helping you with your physical health. He’ll help you shower, brush through your hair gently, and help brush your teeth. He’ll praise you for each small step you take

The type to send you reminders to take your meds at the right time and that you should eat something before you take them so you don’t get nauseous.

Zayne would understand and has never taken it personally when you don’t want to be touched. He doesn’t try to hug or reach for your hand. Instead, he makes space for you until you you’re comfortable once again

He can tell when you get sad randomly. Zayne would never force you to explain but he will always remind you if you want to talk, he’s there. Sometimes when it’s just a quiet ache sitting in you for no reason, he’ll also understand that. He’ll suggest a walk out for fresh air or just for a different scenery if you’ve been inside for too long.

When the smallest sounds can feel too much, he’ll make sure to move extra quietly. He’ll offer noise cancelling headphones to drown out any sounds. Any open windows will be closed and he’ll draw the curtains to keep the noise out. He’ll make sure to close any of the doors inside softly, silence his phone and pager and he’ll make sure to give you the space you need.

Sometimes the words just don’t come out right but Zayne would never rush you. He would always be patient, even when your voice shakes or when you pause for too long. And when you do finally get them out, no matter how jumbled or messy it sounds, he listens. Every single word and every detail. Once you said all you needed to say, that’s when he speaks and helps

Reminds you that he is always there for you. Even if he was busy at work and you know he can’t reach you right now, you can still message him. He reminds you to never hesitate to reach out, spam him, leave him voice messages. He’ll read through every word and detail and he’ll find time to immediately reach out to you

Rafayel:

You would never feel alone if Rafayel was by your side. Even if he was away from an art exhibition, he would text you throughout the day. If you need him by your side, then he’s finding an excuse to get out of work and find his way to you.

When you’re having a hard time getting out of bed, Rafayel would be by your side under the covers so you don’t feel alone. However if you continue to have a hard time, he doesn’t hesitate to step in. He’ll scoop you up in his arms, carrying you to the bathroom. He’ll start with something simple, like a warm bath since it can maybe cheer you up.

When every noise seems to bother you, he’ll make sure to move around quietly in the studio. He’ll close up the windows and doors so his seagull friends won’t bother you. He’ll even breathe more quietly so he doesn’t bother you. Rafayel would still stay nearby but gives you your space to make sure you’re not alone. He’ll wait until you’re ready to talk with him

Rafayel would never take it personally when you did not want to be touched but he definitely does get a little pouty about it behind your back. He just misses holding onto you but he understands and gives you the space you need.

Feeling sad randomly? Rafayel would never push you to explain what’s wrong but he encourages you that it’s good to let it out and that he’s always there for you. However, if it was unexplainable, he doesn’t make you feel weird about it. He’ll find ways to cheer you up as best as he can. He’ll pull up videos on his phone and you silly videos he found that might make you smile. He’ll even suggest a quiet walk by the beach just for a change of scenery and for some fresh air

Sometimes the right words just won’t come. They get lost somewhere between your thoughts but Rafayel has never once looked at you confused or has never been impatient. He watches you carefully, trying to understand your expression. Sometimes he finishes the sentences for you, not to interrupt but because he’s piecing it together with you. And if you grow frustrated, he offers to sketch it out with you.

Sylus:

On days when getting out of bed feels impossible, he stays beside you but he doesn’t let you stay there for too long. He understands the weight of it all but he will step in. First he’ll start with encouragement, asking you to sit up just for a bit. But if your limbs feel too heavy and your body refuses to move, he never gets frustrated. He’ll carry you in his arms. He’ll run you a warm bath and help bathe you. Later he’ll encourage you to do some small activities with him to get you a little motivated

He would never take it personally if you were not in the mood to be touched. There’s no wounded ego or disappointment. He gives you the space that you need until you are ready to curl up next to him again. He’ll make sure you were absolutely comfortable with it before he reaches back

Sylus would always give you the choice to talk or cry or let it out to him in whatever way you need. But if it’s those days where it’s just unexplainable, he doesn’t press on. Instead, he’ll offer distractions. He’ll pull out a new vinyl that he’s been saving for or maybe stepping out to a new scenery to get rid of whatever ache you have in your chest

When the world feels too loud and your thoughts won’t slow down, no matter how hard you try to explain to Sylus through hiccupped sobs, he doesn’t ask you to make sense of it. Instead, he pulls you into his arms. He doesn’t say much at first, his hand moves slowly up and down your back. He doesn’t need you to have the right words. He’ll listen, hiccupped sobs or not, to every detail you have to say. When your sobs begin to slow, when you start to breathe a little easier, he’s still there, helping you sort through the weight you've been carrying. It doesn’t matter if the problem is big or small. He’ll work them out with you together.

Luckily your shared bedroom is at the top floor to avoid any noises from the city. However if any noise continues to bother you, Sylus wouldn’t ask what’s wrong, he’ll just move around quietly as best as he can. He’ll stop playing any music on his record player unless you don’t want him too. He’ll make sure Luke and Kieran are not in the same building and he’ll make sure to mute Mephisto

Caleb:

Having a hard time getting out of bed? Caleb would give you the space you need, leaving you your favorite snacks and water by the bedside table with a cute little note and a doodle for you. He’ll check in on you often to see if you’ve eaten or just by ‘passing’ by the room. However if it does stretch on, he’ll kneel beside the bed and offer his hand, suggesting a few easy stretches. He’ll encourage just a small stretch for your arms and then legs next and then a small little walk to the kitchen where he has a little meal waiting in the kitchen just for you

As much as Caleb loves to hold you and have you in his arms, he would never be offended if you did not want to be touched. He would never hover and never pressure you. He gives you all the space and time you need when you’re comfortable again

Feeling sad out of nowhere? He would be SO worried, it would be written all over his face. His first instinct is to check in, offering to let you vent out if you need to. He’s always been a good listener. If it just feels unexplainable and you can’t quite name the reason, then he’ll find ways to cheer you up. Caleb would curl up with you and pull up your favorite comfort shows or movies. Or he’ll bring you your favorite snack or make your favorite dish that you love. And of course, he offers his signature big bear hug.

If any sounds were bothering you, he’d make sure to not make a single sound in the house. No loud footsteps in the halls, no clinking dishes, you name it. He’d even go as far as making sure no plane flies in the direction over your home to make sure you get the peace you need.

Sometimes you can’t get the right words to come out and Caleb would be patient with you the entire time. He lets you speak and lets you take all the time you need to get it out. His hand rests on yours, his thumb traces slow, soothing circles over your knuckles as he reads your expressions carefully. If any tears come out from frustration, he cups your face with so much care and wipes away any stray tears.

ʚɞ cr. for the divider @/ cafekitsune

ʚɞ 𝘕𝘢𝘷𝘪𝘨𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯:

ʚɞ my other works if you want to check it out! The Love And DeepSpace Masterlist, Pg. 2

ʚɞ Others:

Wattpad ( still updating it rn )

twitter @/ tbaluverr but idk how to use twitter </3

[brokenmenswhore]

I need more stuff with poly!maraudersxreader spicy stuff🤭

i am but your humble servant 🙇‍♀️

mean | poly!marauders

pairing: poly!marauders x fem!reader (james, remus, & sirius)

summary: the boys get jealous seeing you with a study partner, and you reap the consequences when you tell sirius he was being ‘mean’

warnings: smut (MDNI 18+), rough sex, use of the word daddy twice

a/n: is my sirius favoritism showing too much or no

────── ☾ ──────

“I don’t think I’ll ever actually understand this class,” you said, the library study session beginning to take its toll.

“You’re getting it!” Evan encouraged, “we just need to work on it a little bit more.”

“I appreciate your faith in me, but I think after four hours, I either get it or I don’t,” you replied.

“I don’t mind the time,” Evan said, “especially when I get to spend it with you.”

Your three boyfriends could hear every single word exchanged between the two of you, being that they were seated only two tables away, and the second they heard Evan’s statement, Sirius jolted upwards from his chair.

“Sit down,” Remus instructed, “what are you gonna do? Kill him in the middle of our entire year?”

“Yeah, Remus, I just might,” Sirius responded, but still sat back down, eyes never leaving the two of you.

“You have to trust her, Sirius,” James scolded.

“It’s not her I don’t trust,” Sirius said, nostrils flaring in a rage.

Evan was sitting much closer to you than the boys were comfortable with, but they had to trust that you would shut him down if he overstepped.

“Yeah, this has at least been fun!” you told Evan, “but I think I’m a lost cause. This library is beginning to feel like an asylum.”

Evan shrugged, “I mean, we could change the scenery if that’s the problem. There’s usually not anyone in the fifth year potions classroom after the midday class. It would be quiet, and we could be alone and really focus.”

Evan shifted his chair even closer to you, placing an arm around the back of your chair, and leaning closer to you.

“That’s it, I’m gonna kill him,” Sirius said, standing up and reaching your table before Remus or James could keep him at bay.

“What the fuck do you think you’re doing?” Sirius spat, hands on the table as he leaned in, standing across from you.

“Studying?” you replied as Evan backed off.

“Studying,” he mocked in a high tone, “tell him he better get the fuck away from you if he wants to continue breathing.”

“I’m right here, Black, if you have a problem, say it straight to me,” Evan retorted, standing up to meet Sirius’s eye level.

“Ok, Rosier,” Sirius cleared his throat, “I have a problem with you attempting to feel up my girlfriend and then get her alone. I also have a problem with the lack of bruising on your face.”

“Sirius!” you and Remus scolded in unison, the other two boys now next to Sirius, ready to pull him back if he decided to lunge.

“I didn’t do a single thing,” Evan protested, “but if you’re so insecure that you think studying means she’ll cheat on you, maybe she never really liked you in the first place. She could do better anyway.”

Sirius went to jump over the table, but Remus and James held onto one arm each, holding him back as Evan laughed.

“This is not worth it,” Evan told you, “I’ll see you around.”

“Evan, I’m sorry-“ you tried to say as he walked away, your attention turning to Sirius. You were angry with him for the way he was acting, but his fury far outweighed yours.

Remus and James dropped their grip on Sirius when he calmed down. Sirius glared daggers into you. “Just studying, eh?”

“We were just studying until you tried to attack him,” you retorted.

“Go to the dorm room now before I decide to make you feel sorry right here. We’ll meet you up there.”

“But I still-“

“Now.”

The rage in Sirius’ voice was not something to take lightly. When he was mad, making him angrier often ended badly. You retreated to the dorms, seated cross-legged on your bed with a textbook open as you waited for your boyfriends to arrive.

The door to the dorms swung open so hard that the door slammed open against the wall. All three of your partners entered the room, Sirius stomping straight over to you and wrapping a hand around your throat.

“Had a fun day toying with other boys, huh?” he asked.

“Sirius, please, I really was just trying to study,” you pleaded, eyes finding Remus and James and searching for help, “you guys should know that I would never do that to you.”

“I know, baby,” Sirius’ voice weakened, his anger breaking at your pleas, “I’m just mad someone else tried to take what’s mine.”

“I think he was trying to make us jealous, too,” Remus added, “and it worked.”

“Is that what the big issue is?” you asked for clarification, “you’re all jealous?”

“He got really close to you,” James responded, the candor in his voice hurting your heart.

“I’m yours,” you said, grabbing the wrist around your throat, “I’m all of yours, and yours only, you know that.”

“We know,” Sirius said, “I’m just so mad. I can’t calm down.”

“You need to release the energy, Sirius,” James said, “you’re never gonna get past this if you don’t.”

Sirius looked into your eyes, and you gave him a slight nod, signaling to him that he could use you to release the energy. He had a lot of pent up rage from the earlier incident that he needed to let out. He needed to remind you, and himself, that you were his.

Sirius crashed his lips onto yours, a hand still on your throat as he pushed you back against the headboard.

Remus threw the textbook in front of you onto the floor, pulling your legs from their position until they were out in front of you. He kissed up your thighs until he was under your skirt, kissing on top your underwear as you let out a small moan into Sirius’s mouth.

Remus moved your underwear to the side, immediately diving in between your folds with his tongue, causing you to gasp. Sirius pulled away from your mouth, allowing him to hear the noises you made. You whined as Remus shoved his tongue into your soaking wet hole, the intrusion catching you off guard.

“Shit, Remmy,” you whimpered.

“Gotta remind you who you belong to, dove,” James spoke, taking a seat on the bed next to you, “you remember?”

“I’m y-yours, shit, James, all yours,” you whined as Remus continued to fuck you with his tongue, your hand taking its place on his head, fingers entwined in his hair, holding him in place.

“No fair,” Sirius pouted, “why do you get to hear her moan your name when I’m the one who got mad in the first place?”

“Y-ou were mean,” you explained, breathing heavy, making talking difficult as ever, trying to give Sirius the reason you weren’t focusing your attention to him, despite your better judgement.

Remus heard you and immediately stopped his assault on your core. You tried to push his head back down in desperation, but he took your hands off of his head, pinning them to your sides.

“What the fuck did you just say to me?” Sirius questioned, tone low and dark.

“Nothing,” you answered, hoping they would let it go but knowing better.

“I was mean, huh? I don’t deserve to hear you moan my name then, is that it? You think you’re so big and powerful, punishing me because I was mean?” Sirius was growing angrier and angrier, his rage overtaking him again.

“I- I’m sorry,” you tried to backtrack.

“No, no, it’s too late for that now. If you think I don’t deserve to hear you, then I won’t do anything that constitutes a noise. You don’t want me, then so be it.”

“No, please, I do, I want you, please-“

“Tell it to James,” Sirius cut you off. He was mad at you for talking back to him, and mad about earlier, but he was strictly doing this to punish you. He knew you loved how he fucked you when he was mad, and he was threatening to deny you what you wanted.

“Jamesie, please, tell him that I w-“

“Uh uh,” James tutted, “you’re with me now, not Sirius. You don’t get to have him now.”

You pouted, tears threatening to spill as you looked up at James. He leaned over you, kissing your forehead before your lips, distracting you with his mouth before a hand lifted up your skirt and traveled beneath the waistband of your underwear, finding its home on your pearl.

James began to rub in circles, eliciting a moan in the kiss.

“Remus, I think you can go back now,” James spoke.

Remus kept your hands pinned at your sides but shifted downward, tongue reentering you as James rubbed you off, the feeling of two different men on your core driving you insane.

Sirius slumped down on a chair a few feet away, lighting a cigarette as he watched Remus and James overstimulate you as they held you down.

“Jamie, please,” you moaned.

“Please what, dove?” James asked, beginning to touch any part of your core he could, the pleasure becoming too much to handle.

“Please let me come,” you begged.

James looked at Remus, who made eye contact with him, but never left you alone. He shoved his tongue in and out of you, curling it upwards once inside, eyes focused on James as he waited for any signal to stop.

James, however, was always the nicest to you in the bedroom. Though he knew Sirius and Remus would usually stop now, he was making the call, and he hated denying you your pleasure, even if you were being punished.

He leaned in and kissed you, his touch quickening and hardening as Remus continued to taste as much of you as he could, causing your climax to hit you without warning. You squealed and moaned into James’s mouth, legs shaking as Remus licked up any remnants of your high before pulling away from you and standing up.

You attempted to catch your breath as Sirius took one last drag of his cigarette, extinguishing the flame and walking over to you, your cheeks flushed and chest rising and falling rapidly as you tried to calm down.

“See, you didn’t need me, did you?” Sirius taunted.

“I-“

“Still don’t want me?”

You furiously shook your head no. “No, nonono, I want you, please, I need you,” you begged.

“Even though I’m so fucking mean?” he spat, intentionally working himself up to an angry place again.

“Yes, daddy, please,” you replied, using the name for him that you knew he couldn’t resist.

Sirius growled, tugging on his jeans and crawling over you, lightly kissing your neck before meeting your gaze.

“Beg for me,” he demanded.

Your heart was beating so hard it made your chest sore. “Please, daddy, I want you.”

“I think he’s earned hearing his name, sweetheart,” Remus spoke from beside you.

“Please, I need you so bad, Siri, I-“

The second you spoke his name, Sirius pushed your skirt up to your waist and your underwear to the side, inserting his entire length into you in one quick motion, a move he loved to use when he was punishing you for something. Though he had been inside of you plenty of times, he was too large to simply just start fucking you without a warm up, unless, that is, he was purposefully being mean.

You let out a high pitched moan at the intrusion, always forgetting just how deep his cock hits within you.

He then pulled almost his entire length out of you before slamming it back in, your body jolting upwards at the feeling of his hips snapping against yours. He started to fuck you, fast and hard, leaving no time for you to adjust to him or his size.

“Siri, fuck,” you moaned.

“That’s it,” he breathed, “you’re all mine. You fucking belong to me.”

All three boys were possessive of you, but knew you ‘belonged’ to all three of them, not just one. However, when Sirius was mad, the other boys didn’t matter. They knew he needed to feel like you were his and only his. All the boys needed that one-on-one intimacy at times, but Sirius craved it all the time, and sometimes Remus suspected that he really did wish you were all his.

“It’s too much, can’t- I c-“ you started to plead, but Sirius didn’t care, continuing his ruthless pace that nearly had your head slamming upwards into the headboard with each thrust.

“You can, and you will,” Sirius spoke, “you’re all fucking mine. I don’t even want anyone else near you. You’re gonna take it like a good girl so that everyone can hear who you belong to, understood?”

You nodded, taking a moment to process that you had to speak. “Yes, Siri.”

“Good girl,” he said, one of his hands grabbing your throat as he snapped his hips at an almost violent pace.

“Siri, please, I’m gonna c-“

“You know you’re supposed to wait until he comes,” Remus reminded you, “or else it just isn’t fair.”

“B- but- I-“

“No buts,” Remus said, running a thumb over your cheek to collect the tears that were now falling, “you wait until Siri is ready, and then you come with him. He deserves at least that much.”

Your walls were clenching around his cock, and you fought desperately not to come. You knew you were supposed to wait and come in unison with whoever was fucking you, but you were overstimulated, and Sirius’s possessiveness was hot.

“That’s right, baby, you gotta wait,” Sirius cooed, “my girl only comes when I say she can. You’re my girl, aren’t you?”

“Yes, Siri, I’m yours,” you responded, your hands grabbing desperately at his shoulders to steady yourself, “all yours.”

Sirius ran a hand over your body, scanning every inch of you as he fucked you. “All mine,” he whispered, almost more to himself than to you.

Sirius’s thrusts began to become erratic and sloppy, his high approaching as his clock twitched inside of you.

“You gonna come with me, love?” Sirius asked, and you whined in response, signaling that you were ready.

Sirius tightened his grip around your throat. “Come for me,” he commanded, “for me and only me.”

Your walls clenched around Sirius one last time as you came around him, one final “Sirius!” leaving your lips as you did.

The feeling of you coming around him caused Sirius to reach his high, his final few thrusts sharp and deep inside of you.

He took a moment to collect himself and catch his breath before pulling out of you.

“You remember who you belong to now?” James asked, sweetly repositioning your skirt over you to allow you modesty as you calmed down.

“Mhm,” you began to feel tired, “I’m all of yours.”

[lovelake]

WITHOUT A SHRED OF BAD (GOOD) INTENTIONS

Old habits die hard. He can’t seem to stop paying you nightly visits with rose-colored glasses.

solivan brugmansia x gn!reader | MDNI, dead dove do not eat, non-con, stalking, drugging, dry-humping, breaking and entering, 700+ wc

note: drabble again ^_^ because i’ve been struggling to find the time and energy to write LMFAO sorry for the inactivity. if you don’t want to see this type of content, please use the filtering system to curate your experience </3 comments and reblogs are always appreciated

masterlist read on ao3

Doting eyes and bruised knuckles caressed your moonlit face. Each and every detail was committed to memory so he could sketch it out later on.

You were his entire life: the heavenly scenery when he so much as blinked, the movie star in all his dreams at night, the muse behind his art, his will to live. 

He didn’t have bad intentions when he broke all the padlocks you kept buying, how else was he supposed to get in and carry out his purpose?

He was doing you a favor! He selflessly endured insomnia and (unbeknownst to you) gifted you his sleeping pills so you could get a good night’s rest. You deserved to be loved and pleasured, and was the only person who fit the bill for the job (according to an unreliable source, him).

At least, that’s how his sick mind tries to justify his actions.

It was a simple routine. He started with the most loving and tender action of them all—a forehead kiss. Soft and loving, the touch lingered like a balm while he slowly peeled your blanket off and nudged you towards your side.

Though he was impatient, he stayed away from your lips. You’d come around and love him back. Your first kiss with him would be of your own will. Ironic, considering how far he’s taking all these other unwarranted touches.

What would you taste like? Plain unscented chapstick? Cherry gloss? Cocoa butter vaseline? Bloody, from chapped and cracked lips? It doesn’t matter, he’s excited for the future.

“Are you cold?” Faux concern coated his whisper, he rubbed your goosebump-covered arm. “Don’t worry, I’ll warm you up.”

Nuzzling against the crook of your neck, he got his dose of his favorite aphrodisiac. Honestly, it was becoming a problem as of late. All you had to do was pass by him in the hallway and he’d get hard from your scent, his mind would take him back to moments like these. 

With an arm hooked around your stomach, he pulled you closer to him. His hand then wandered south, dipping underneath fabric to find its destination.

The crickets outside were overshadowed by the sound of his breathing gradually growing heavy with each flick of his hand. Sheets rustled. His hips—once pressed snugly against the back of yours—were chasing friction.

You needed this. Poor thing, you’ve probably been so stressed as of late. He’s seen you studying for hours on end at the library. He was here to relieve you, you’d wake up feeling refreshed tomorrow.

Between huffs, open-mouthed kisses were desperately littered across your neck, like you’d slip out of his arms if he stopped for even a minute.

He’d be the only person to touch you like this, he’d make sure of it. Nobody loved you as much as he did, he’d dispose of anyone who challenged that.

“Mm…” Biting his bottom lip didn’t work. Your neighbors must think you have a boyfriend at this point, his broken whimpers weren’t quiet by any means. 

If that’s the case, they probably pity you because he never lasts long. Alone, he could cum to the thought of you in just a minute or two. It’s not like he can help it! You’re on his mind all day long, of course any stimulation would set him off.

“Please,” it was unfair how good you made him feel, all you had to do was be in his presence, that’s all he needed for his stomach to start feeling hot.

He buried his face against your neck, hand coming back up to hold your hip for leverage. You’d feel the ache there later. He should feel gross (he didn’t), his pants were all sticky now, and he’d have to walk back home like this. 

Your heart was slow and steady from slumber in contrast to his as he traced shapes against your skin and whispered sweet words against the shell of your ear. That’s what good boyfriends do, right? Aftercare? He’s just getting some practice before that dream comes to fruition.

His smile was blinding in the dark. After a couple minutes, he reluctantly parted from you and tucked you in.

What would he go home with this time? Another piece of clothing from your laundry basket? One of the fragrances sitting atop your counter? He couldn’t get too greedy, he limited himself to one item per week.

You sent him to heaven and back. He deserved to see flames instead.

[ahundredtimesover]

Hold Me Closer | JJK

Pairing: Jungkook x (f.) Reader (ft. brother Jimin)

Genre/Tags: brother’s best friends au; slight angst, fluff, smut

Warnings: foul language, alcohol consumption; kitchen emergency; eldest child feels, adulting; explicit sexual content (making out, oral m & f receiving, unprotected sex but be safe please!); Seven JK (18+)

Word count: 19.2k

Read Part 1: Hold Me Close

Summary: When you're asked to look after your parents' house and meet them before they go on vacation, you, Jimin, and Jungkook take the trip to your hometown of Busan and relive memories of your youth. While your new relationship has you feeling like a lovesick teenager with all the affection that Jungkook shows you, you're still you - a professional trying to make it in the corporate world, and an eldest child trying not to disappoint her parents. And that turns out to be your undoing, as a little blunder causes a rift between you and Jungkook, resulting in a trip that you might as well have messed up... Not if your brother can help it, though.

Listen to 🎵: Hands Down by Dashboard Confessional

Playlist 🎶: High School Playlist

A/N 1: I know I said I’d be on a break but I reread Hold Me Close and found comfort in this Jungkook 🥹 so I went ahead and wrote this little piece! Whipped and comforting boyfriend JK is what I needed so I hope you enjoy this 💕

Six - the number of work calls you’ve already taken in the last hour, with each one of them lasting one whole song. Jungkook calculates that you’ve spent half of the entire drive since leaving Seoul talking with your boss about some report that he somehow can’t complete without you, which sucks because Jungkook was really looking forward to this road trip with you and his best friend.

You groan after you hang up and the clackity clack of the keyboard continues. He was hoping to hold your hand while he drove and maybe sing with you some of your favorite songs that he put on but it doesn’t seem like those will happen anytime soon. You’re immersed in your work but he guesses you have to be; the sooner this ends, the sooner your focus will be on him and this present moment.

He finds the positive side of it at least. He gets to listen to you explain things - why the numbers are what they are, what targets you reached, and what risks you managed. It’s quite silly but it’s kind of a turn on, hearing you talk about something you know like the back of your hand, pretty much proving to your crap of a boss how good you are at your job and why you’re an asset to the company. You know your shit, and you have a classy way of making sure they know that you do. 

Six calls, and Jungkook already knows half of your project report. And perhaps he’ll know more, as the seventh one comes.

You let it ring for one, two, three times, as you hold your phone in one hand while you continue to type away with the other. 

“I swear to god, ___. If you don’t pick that up, I’m  gonna throw your phone out of this car,” Jimin, who’s comfortably seated in the backseat, growls. 

The dramatics is understandable because one, it’s Jimin and two, the constant ringing is a little bit much.

“___, I’m not fucking kiddi—”

“Hello, sir,” you finally answer, then proceed to discuss this month’s analytics and projections for the succeeding quarter.

Jungkook predicts it’s gonna take you another whole song to finish, so he instead focuses on the road and appreciates the clear skies and familiar scenery of the drive to Busan. His thoughts go to how these next several days are gonna go. There’s visiting your favorite spots growing up, going to a resort, staying in to eat and play video games, and of course, cuddling with you in your room, as you and Jimin will have your parents’ house to yourselves once they leave for their anniversary trip in two days.

His musings are disrupted though, when he looks at the rear view mirror and sees Jimin’s annoyed face blocking his view. Jungkook can’t help but laugh, especially when he hears his best friend grumbling complaints just behind him.

“Leave her be, she’ll be done soon,” Jungkook dismisses him. “They sound like important stuff.”

“She’s talking so loudly!” Jimin groans. “I just want to reminisce and sing along to our teenage emo music, Kook.”

Jungkook turns the music off. 

“There, I paused it. You can sing along once she’s done speaking on the phone,” he says.

Jimin pouts in response. “You always take her side. You weren’t like this when we were kids.”

“Well, if it means anything, I always took her side. I just never told you,” Jungkook laughs.

“Traitor.”

“I’m literally your most loyal friend.”

It’s a statement that Jimin can’t counter. Jungkook is his most loyal friend. And the most supportive. And the most dependable. And definitely the one who’s never left his side. 

When Jimin casually told their group that he likes girls and boys, Jungkook was the only one who didn’t need time to “warm up to the idea.” Jungkook was also the only one who never disappeared whenever he had a girlfriend. He was also the one who never missed a single one of Jimin’s dance showcases in college and professional shows. 

And of course, Jungkook was the one friend who took up his offer to drink that Friday afternoon, resulting in that infamous gutter incident - as you like to call it - and his subsequent unemployment and homelessness. While you, his beloved sister, were there to pick up the pieces, so was Jungkook, the way he promised he would after they became friends at 10 years old. 

Those months when Jimin was heartbroken and unsure of what he was going to do with his life, his best friend was there to make sure that he wasn’t going to lose his drive and love for dancing. His best friend is also the one constantly cheering him up about this long-distance relationship that he decided to have with Taehyung while others continue to be a skeptic.

Jungkook is that friend, and Jimin supposes he can forgive the other man every time he sides with you.

Jimin is about to complain again when you put the phone down and make one of your restrained cries. He pities you, but it doesn’t change the fact that he wishes you wouldn’t be doing your work stuff while you’re on a trip of what’s supposed to be a mini-break.

“I don’t get why you don’t pick up after the first ring,” he huffs. 

“It’s so Mr. Soo knows that I’m not easily available,” you say. 

“But you are. You answer it anyway,” Jimin rolls his eyes.

“Exactly, I’m gonna answer it anyway. Might as well make him wait for it because he needs me,” you point out. “It’s bad enough that he’s calling while I’m taking the leave he approved, so I’m just pissing him off. He doesn’t know I changed the prompt to leave me a voice message to an annoying song so he’ll have to sit through it to get to me. I already know it’s getting on his nerves.”

“Ooh, petty. I like that,” Jimin hums. 

“I know. I got that from you,” you proudly smile.

“But why are you even working?” He whines, your brother’s tone more of pity than annoyance. “It totally defeats the purpose of a leave. And you shouldn’t be indulging him!”

“Well, Mr. Soo approved this leave thinking that Chul would help him craft this report, which is based on the project that I proposed, only to realize that he doesn’t know shit about it because I wrote everything, and he just took the credit,” you explain. “I don’t want to be doing this, too, but I also just took the chance to show who’s driving the wheel, and it’s definitely me. Plus, I worked hard for that project. Working on the report at least gives me a chance to give myself credit for it.”

“Hmm, I guess you’re right,” Jimin concedes. “Your voice is just so loud.”

“I’m sorry. I just wanted to match his tone,” you say. “But he’ll be in a meeting for the next hour or so and he probably won’t need me again until then. You can turn the music back on.”

“Ugh, thank god,” Jimin groans again. “I missed my favorite song.”

He leans forward and squeezes himself in the small space between you and Jungkook. The proximity causes Jimin to smack his elbow on your face, which you know is intended, considering how much of a brat he is. So you do what you always do - flick the back of his head. 

He yells but gets over it once he manages to press the rewind button and plays the song he’s been wanting to hear. You haven’t been paying attention throughout the drive and hadn’t even known what they were listening to, but once the music comes on, a wave of nostalgia hits you.

You take the CD case you see in the compartment and scan the song list.

“Dashboard Confessional?” You read out. “Mayday Parade? Something Corporate?”

You go through 2 other CDs and look at both men questioningly. 

“These are literally plucked out of my high school playlist that I illegally downloaded,” you state, given that music streaming sites weren’t a thing over a decade ago. “Why do you have them in CDs? And did you even know these songs back then?”

“Yes, because we listened to your playlist when you weren’t around,” Jimin confesses, earning him a flick on the arm. 

“You went through my computer? You were in my room?!” You yell.

“Don’t be dramatic,” Jimin rolls his eyes. “It was a boring room, there was nothing to see. We just wanted your music because they were cool, but I’d never admit it.”

“I’m sure,” you shake your head. “But it was my ex, remember? He was a new kid from the US and he got me into these emo rock bands and I thought they were cool, too. He downloaded them illegally for me and I just jammed to those songs all the time even after we broke up.”

“We know. Jungkook and I could hear it from my bedroom,” Jimin says, “which is why we used to sneak in and listen when you weren’t around.”

“Is that why you put them in a mixtape? So you could listen to them whenever you wanted?” You ask, turning to Jungkook because between the both of them, he’s definitely the one who’d know how to do this.

“Yeah, Kook. Why did you make these mixtapes when neither of us had a portable CD player… but my sister did?” Jimin presses, cocked eyebrow and smug face on display.

You’re looking at him now, and it’s a curious look that Jungkook can’t resist.

“I just thought to put your most played ones in CDs,” he shyly admits, “and uh, planned on giving them to you before you left for college. But I chickened out so I just left them in a box in my room that I brought to Seoul. I’d forgotten all about it until Jimin raided my studio and found them.”

“You… you made me mixtapes? When you were 15?” You ask.

“___, I think I’ve established enough that I had a huge crush on you when I was a teenager,” he turns to you and laughs. 

It’s a little embarrassing even if he’s already dating you. It still feels surreal sometimes, as he thinks of his growing up years and how he always looked forward to sleeping over at Jimin’s place and then catching glimpses of you. There were the times when you’d watch movies with them in the living room, and then he’d help you clean up in the kitchen so he could spend more time with you.

That was over 10 years ago and so much has changed, but the admiration he felt for you never dwindled. There was always that image of you looking happy. He kept that version of you in his mind, even when you had your boyfriends. He just wanted to remember your smile, and now he gets to be the reason for it, like now.

“It’s just… it’s very sweet and thoughtful,” you say softly. 

“I… Well… I took interest in the things you liked. I guess that happens when you like someone.”

“Told you he’s a romantic,” Jimin nudges you. 

Between the fairy tattoo he designed and did on your shoulder, the dinner and picnic dates he takes you to despite both your busy schedules, and the way he holds you so close to him whenever and wherever he can, you can definitely say that Jungkook is a romantic.

It’s only been three months but it feels as if you’ve been dating him for longer, given the overflow of affection he’s been giving you. It’s in the way he always holds your hand and kisses you so passionately. It’s in his encouraging words and the way he spoils you with the littlest things. 

It’s refreshing to be with him. He has boyish charms that have become even sexier with his slightly long hair and the lip ring that he recently got. And whatever he’s wearing, there’s just something so comfortably sexy about him that’s both warm and exciting, and you often find yourself swarmed in butterflies whenever he talks about you.

It’s only been three months but it’s a relationship you’re still slowly being open about. Your friends were definitely surprised. Hoseok fell off the couch with all his body movements; Jin spat out his drink; Yoongi gasped, then followed it up with a teasing smirk; So-Hee and Na-eun gushed over how Jungkook treats you, and took the chance to say how he’s gotten more handsome over the years. 

You asked them if it was that shocking for you to be dating someone younger - and your brother’s best friend at that - and while they said it was a bit unexpected, what really got them was how different Jungkook is from your exes. He’s not some corporate man with ambitions, they pointed out. His life is less structured, too, given his freelancing career and gig at the tattoo parlor. He’s definitely a lot more laid-back and more casual than they’re used to. 

They were short of remarking that Jungkook’s lifestyle isn’t as stable and secure as what you normally go for, and they wouldn’t be wrong. It’s a thought you’ve had before, and something even he brought up because he didn’t want you thinking that he can’t keep up with you. But you’d been the one to point out to your friends that stability can come in different forms. With how Jungkook has been so dependable and assuring, that’s given you more security than you ever thought. 

But it’s not something that’s easy to explain. Maybe your friends could understand. They’ve made careers in different industries, after all, with short term jobs forming part of their resume. But your parents are of a different generation and mindset. Stability for them means one thing, and they raised you to want the same thing in the same way. 

Which is why it’s already been three months, and you still haven’t told them about you and Jungkook. 

“I started young,” he laughs, pulling you out of your thoughts as he takes your hand and interlocks his fingers with yours. “I used to just choose my moments of romance but with you, I’m romantic all the time.”

“Really? Does being a flirt count as being romantic?” You cock an eyebrow.

Because that’s what he is. He likes to tease and call you out when he affects you. He likes to charm and then edge you until you’re pleading for him to do more. 

“Definitely! I mean, I’m out here living my teenage dream, you know?” He winks at you. “Not just anyone gets to say that they’re dating the person they had a crush on when they were 13.”

“Oh god, here we go again,” Jimin groans, earning him a laugh from you and Jungkook.

But even if your brother fake-gags at your not-so private displays of affection, you know deep down that he’s happy for you and his best friend. The two most important people in his life found comfort in each other, and he gets to witness and bask in that. 

He also gets to brag that it all happened because of him. 

You spend the next hour jamming to all your favorite emo rock songs because Jungkook wasn’t kidding - he really did include all of the ones you had on repeat from your playlist. It takes you back to over 10 years ago of playing the music so loud while you’re in your pajamas, jumping on your bed and singing your lungs out. They don’t really remind you of your ex-boyfriend. That was a short-lived relationship that only really had you appreciating the songs he shared and not much more. 

Your boss doesn’t reach out to you until a half hour later. He’s taken to sending you messages instead, and when he does, you’re back to typing away on your laptop, to the displeasure of both men. 

They don’t call you out this time and instead leave you be. Until, of course, it hinders you from enjoying yourself.

The car has stopped but you’re still on your laptop, double checking figures. Jimin has stepped out after telling you that he’ll throw your laptop in the ocean if you don’t stop, but Jungkook stays with you inside the car. He bops his head and hums to the music that neither of you could barely hear. He picks on his fingers and yelps at the hangnail he pulls out. He opens the window and shoos away a bug, then hangs out his head to feel the late morning sun.

“Kook, you can go out if you’re bored,” you say, your eyes still glued to your screen. “You don’t have to stay with me here.”

“But I want to,” he responds. “I’m not leaving until you do, not when you said we’re spending the week free from work and stress.”

“I just need to get this done,” you sigh, rechecking your stats for the third time and then aligning the table. “I’ll be finished soon.”

“You said that 15 minutes ago,” he points out, not wanting to sound like he’s complaining, although he might as well be. 

“It’s just—”

“You’ve done your part, babe. You’ve encoded the figures and cross-checked the targets and objectives. Writing the rest of that report and formatting it isn’t your job anymore,” Jungkook says. “You weren’t even supposed to do those. You’re not on the clock. You’re on leave, and you deserve this break.”

“I hate that I have to work, too, but it’s not something I just can’t do, not when my boss is calling and expecting me to do all this,” you groan. 

You see his eyebrows furrow and you get defensive. 

“You know what, nevermind. You work solo, you answer to no one, you don’t have to prove yourself to corporate assholes. You won’t get it.”

You sigh once more and return to reviewing the conclusion, but the sudden silence is unnerving. You glance at Jungkook and see the look on his face - it’s not sadness but disappointment, and it’s one you don’t see very often on him.

You’re about to apologize when he speaks, his voice soft and low, as if speaking is difficult for him.

“I work with so many clients on a daily basis, with more than half of them setting deadlines that they don’t even follow and demanding so many things so yes, I get it,” he says. “But I put my foot down when I need to, because I learned a long time ago that I shouldn’t let people walk all over me. I know you’re up against a lot of things and you may feel like your hands are tied but they aren’t. A break won’t hurt you. And you know you deserve it. We deserve your attention, too.”

Your heart cracks at his words. Even more at the way he looks, as you see that all he wants is to spend time with you. He’s been busy, too. He’s spent the last few nights at his studio, buried deep in his projects because he said he wanted to focus on you this week. And you know that he’ll keep his word like he always does. Jungkook is dedicated to his work but he focuses on you when he says he will. You’re the one not loyal to what you say.

“Kook, I’m—”

“Just do what you have to do,” he interjects, his eyes downcast now. “I’ll be outside with Jimin. Come out when you’re done. You like it here, so don’t worry. We won’t leave until you’ve come down.”

Jungkook exits the car before you can say anything. You watch him walk down the stony path towards the ocean.

You hadn’t even realized you’re here. 

You’re at Cheongsapo, with the pebble beach just meters away being one you all went to as kids. Jungkook’s older brother used to drive you here during summer, and you all enjoyed the calmness of the place. You used to bet on who would treat ice cream by playing rounds of stone skipping, with Jimin winning every single time. You remember how you and Jungkook taught each other how to do it, and then tag-teamed against your brother so he could finally treat you both that one time. 

Whenever you’d visit Busan during your college breaks, you’d always come down here with your friends, with Jungkook and Jimin in tow. You’d visit at sunset and hold out your sparklers, then navigate the terrain at night and laugh about who tripped and slipped on the way back. 

Jungkook’s right. You like this place. It holds so many memories of your youth, and you find yourself constantly reminiscing, as you try to recall his place in your life back then. 

You mentally smack yourself. He didn’t deserve your dismissal. He didn’t deserve the way you spoke to him. He’s been trying to help, especially with how busy you’ve been these past several weeks. You were supposed to work from home while you housesat your parents’ house but Jimin convinced you to take your untouched leaves when Jungkook decided to come, and then they both called it a mini-break.

And maybe you need it, considering that all this preoccupation with work has caused you to snap at your boyfriend when all he wanted to do was ease your mind.

So you get out of the car and head to him. 

There’s a small forest to pass through and a steep staircase to maneuver, but you manage. You look out to see Jimin already throwing stones and Jungkook standing by, reacting to every gliding pebble on the water. You spare a few seconds to admire him from the back, with his plain white shirt and light gray lounge pants, accentuating a figure that has you weak in the knees. His hands are in his pockets and his slightly long locks are in a half-bun, and he looks every bit of comfort in this place that holds so much of your years growing up.

You walk to where he is and wrap your arms around him from behind. He stills but he doesn’t say anything. You savor his natural scent and the way the tips of his hair tickle your face. You bask in the taut figure that somehow softens under your touch. Once you feel him relax a little, you tilt your head and whisper in his ear. 

“I’m sorry for snapping at you. You didn’t deserve that.”

He remains quiet and unmoving. All you can hear are the sounds of the waves and Jimin’s cheering from some meters away.

“I just got caught up with work but I’m done with it. It wasn’t right of me to neglect you when I promised I was gonna take a break and spend time with you,” you continue.

Your voice is low and Jungkook could hear your pout. Just a little bit more and he’ll give in.

“You look so hot today and I just want to—”

“Yah!” He whines, finally returning your affection and caressing your arms that are now wrapped around him tightly. “Don’t tease me.”

“Hmm, that caught your attention, huh?” You giggle, lightly kissing his neck.

He shivers at the act, and he laughs at himself for how whipped he is for you, giving in so quickly.

“You know it would,” he huffs, turning around to face you now.

You still have that pout and he just wants to kiss it off you.

“How was walking down the steep staircase?” He asks, knowing that was your only non-favorite thing about this place. 

“I tripped on a step but I’m fine,” you proudly smile now. 

“You should’ve called me,” he frowns now. 

“But you were upset with me!”

“So? Doesn’t mean I wouldn’t help you down the stairs and risk you tripping. You know how those steps are. And the pebbles can sometimes be slippery. You can trip here, too, and— what?”

“Nothing. You’re sexy when you’re worried about me,” you say nonchalantly.

“Ugh, come here,” he groans, pulling you in a hug, one that you fall into immediately. “I’ll always worry about you. And I’ll always help you, even if I’m upset.”

“I know,” you sigh. “I’m sorry again. But I’ve laid off the report now. I told Mr. Soo I shall not be disturbed anymore for the rest of my leave.”

“Good,” Jungkook hums, pulling away to face you now. “Because I really want to know what you wanted to do.”

“Ah, many things, Jeon Jungkook,” you smirk. “But I’ll maybe settle for this first.”

You lean in and kiss him - deep enough to have him moan against your lips, and you suddenly can’t wait until you can do more.

“Oh, my eyes!” Jimin squeals, prompting you to look at him with his arm covering his face.

Jungkook only laughs but you scowl at your brother.

“You’re so dramatic,” you roll your eyes. “You’ve seen worse.”

“And I’ve erased that image of my sister and my best friend swallowing each other’s faces from my mind. Please don’t remind me again,” he groans. “But anyway, are you tolerable again?”

“Yes,” you frown. “I think,” you mutter, turning to Jungkook.

“You’re alright,” he teases, before he wraps his arm around you and pulls you close. “Now Jimin here wants to reassert his dominance as the stone-skipping king. You game for a match?”

“Do I have a choice?” You cock your eyebrow.

“No. So okay, same rules,” your brother announces. “Loser treats everyone to coffee and pastry. We all know it won’t be me.”

“Brat,” you say under your breath. 

But he’s not wrong. He dominates and Jungkook ends up losing. The wink he makes tells you he let you win. And though you like to play fair, you won’t lie and say his teasing smirk definitely turned you on.

You spend the rest of your morning enjoying iced coffee while overlooking the beach, then you head to your favorite seafood restaurant for lunch. You go to your usual market for ingredients for the week, including tonight’s dinner that your mother will be preparing. She wanted to cook for all of you before they flew out, she said, and that got you excited. 

It’s refreshing to walk through the streets and spots of your childhood and reminisce with your brother and boyfriend. The memories take on different forms this time, as Jungkook tells you things from his perspective. 

You remember that one time you scolded them for sneaking out on a school night and then picking them up at an alley with Jin driving you. Jungkook says he liked how caring and understanding you were then; you said you’d cover for them after flicking their foreheads. 

There’s that summer when you got your friends to buy from Jimin and Jungkook’s ice pop stand so they could buy these skateboards that neither of your parents wanted to get for them. Jungkook recalls how you complimented his recipe and told everyone he made them so that they’d praise him, too. 

There’s that winter when, after your brother’s begging, you had him and Jungkook join you and your friends’ bonfire night at one of your secret beach spots. Jungkook points out that you always made sure that as the youngest ones there, they were warm and well-fed. 

And then there were their sleepovers when you’d join them play video games and watch horror movies in the living room. Jungkook gushes at how pretty you looked and how you’d always prepare them popcorn and drinks. He outs you as the one who puts the blanket over him and Jimin when they fall asleep on the couch. 

“I tend to forget a lot of things but I remember when they’re about you,” he mumbles as he starts the drive to your house. “It’s just always stuck with me. Please don’t be weirded out.”

You giggle but assure him that you aren’t. You understand him - there are things and people and moments that naturally stick with you, and they’re the ones you hold dear, too. 

He was a kid with a crush and his attention was often on you, and you suppose that given how you’d felt comfortable around him then, it was also maybe natural that you’d feel the same way now that you’re both older. It just so happened that he ended up looking as attractive as he did, and that’s just an added bonus. 

Jungkook drops you and Jimin home before he drives three blocks away to his parents’ house. He’ll greet them first before heading to your place, he says, excited for your mom’s cooking that he always enjoyed. 

It’s been some time since you last saw them. They don’t always drive out to Seoul, only doing so to watch Jimin’s shows, and you haven’t had time to go home, either. Plus, you had an injured brother to take care of, and he’s also really the topic of every conversation you’ve had with them these past months. 

And there are no bad feelings there. He’s had injuries and illnesses that had them worried, and you’re pretty much as unproblematic and predictable as any eldest child could get. You think you’re that monotonous or unexciting, too, and you suppose that just meant they didn’t feel the need to check on you as much as they did with Jimin.

But you express your longing once they offer you their hugs. You say how you miss your mom’s cooking and your dad’s baking, which is code for saying that you’ve missed them, too. 

You get your stuff to your room and sigh in relief at the comfort it still gives you. Not much has changed between your double bed, your desk, your beanbag, and the large cork board of photos on your wall. You pin the Polaroids from earlier, deciding to keep the ones of you and Jungkook for your place back in Seoul. 

You huff this time, unsure how you’ll open the discussion of you dating your younger brother’s best friend to your parents. They’ve known him since he was a kid; they watched him get into all kinds of trouble with their son, and were there for his milestones, too. 

Jungkook was always Jimin’s partner-in-crime; they were two peas in a pod who went through everything together. Now it’s you and him and you don’t really know how they’ll take it. 

But you brush it off for now and think it’s a conversation for later, or maybe when they come back from their trip. You intended on telling them in person, which is why they’re still in the dark. It’s just a matter of how you’ll say it.

You head downstairs and take in the scent of seafood soft tofu stew. The two boys are already at the kitchen counter, munching on the rolled omelet that they shouldn’t even be having yet. But your mom lets them, as Jimin talks about his new agency and shows videos of him doing some choreographies.

You stand next to Jungkook, who sneakily feeds you. You don’t know why you get flustered at the act, even more when he whispers in your ear. 

“So, I finally get to see your room with your permission,” he cheekily smiles. “I promised Jimin a few rounds of Overwatch before going to you.”

You merely laugh and tell him that your dad’s asking him something.

“So, Jungkook. How has work been? Jimin tells us you’ve been getting more projects recently,” your old man asks. 

“Ah, yes, uncle,” he responds. “I’m getting more clients and exposure now. It took a while but it’s all going well.”

“That’s good. Although I always wondered why you never thought of joining a firm. Doesn’t that mean a more consistent client base? And better for you financially, too.”

“Well, I get to choose my clients and my projects as a freelancer,” Jungkook explains. “I control my time. And it allows me to take appointments at the tattoo parlor.”

“Oh, right, your hobby,” your dad nods. “I guess having multiple sources of income is the new trend these days.”

Jungkook just hums in agreement, already used to your dad’s frame of thought when it comes to a career. So are you, because it’s often the first thing he picks up on with your boyfriends. Each of your partners just happened to be working in corporate so there was never this line of questioning followed by an awkward silence. 

But Jungkook is just your brother’s best friend, as far as they know. You wonder how they’d react once you finally tell them the truth.

You don’t completely fault your dad, though. It’s less about judgment and more about practicality. He and your mom came from the generation that believed survival and security mattered more than passion. They always thought the latter could come later on in life, which is why they opened their own cafe not long ago, at a time when they were already pretty secure. You suppose it’s his way of looking out for you, which is why he’s always been concerned about your partner’s occupation.

The conversation changes, as the focus now turns to your parents and what they’ve been up to. You assist your mom in the kitchen while the men hang around, helping when they’re called upon. Jungkook stands near you, asking if you need him and attempting to feed you with a dumpling this time, but you manage to feed yourself and he merely looks at you in understanding.

Dinner is finally ready and you all head to the dining table. You take the seat next to your mom, across from Jungkook, and he looks at you curiously but you offer him an apologetic smile. You only told him that you’ll tell your parents about your relationship in person, which you planned on doing. 

That is, until your parents bring up your friends.

“Sweetie, Jin’s son is so adorable,” your mom chirps. “I saw the pictures on Facebook and the little one took after his father so much. I can imagine how happy he and his wife are.”

The topic of your dear friend and his family injects energy into you. You say how Jin’s been bragging about his mini-me but that the nursery you helped put together looks so beautiful. You were all there when his wife gave birth a few weeks ago and though you’re still unsure about having kids, you won’t deny how much it warmed your heart when Seo-yoon’s tiny fingers wrapped around your thumb. It’s not something you say though, as your mom eventually mentions Na-eun and her fiancé. 

“I read that he’s been promoted as Director of their company,” she says. 

Your dad pipes in that So-Hee’s new boyfriend is apparently the son of one of his former colleagues, and you’re quite frankly over the conversations about your friends’ partners. The insinuations aren’t lost on you.

“How do you even know these things?” You groan.

“Facebook,” your mom replies. “Of course I’m friends with all your friends. And it’s nice to know how well they’re doing since we don’t get to see them much anymore. You’ve reached that age of settling down, after all.”

“I guess,” you hum, no longer interested in the conversation. Jimin’s roll of his eyes tells you he feels the same. “Lots of good things are happening for them.”

You don’t mean to sound bitter and you aren’t. You adore your friends and genuinely love that things are looking out for them. You’re not the same person from months ago who felt lost and falling behind amongst them. Sure, things could be better career-wise, but you haven’t felt this much security in yourself and your relationship until Jungkook. Explaining why is a different thing altogether.

“What about you?” Your dad asks. “I know we’ve been calling every week to ask about your brother but we haven’t been checking in on you. I’m sorry, dear,” he continues, his eyes softening. “Is there anything new in your life?”

If the earlier conversations hadn’t happened, perhaps you’d willingly hint on the newest thing in your life, which is the relationship you have with the man currently looking at you with his doe-eyes in anticipation. 

But they did, and you know mentioning your friends’ partners was their way of subtly pressuring you about being with someone of similar stature. And you’re not really in the mood for that right now. 

So you end up doing the stupidest thing you possibly could, and that’s to lie. 

“Not really,” you say, hating the prolonged silence that follows. 

And as you look at Jungkook across from you, you see his face fall, and you hate even more that it’s because of you. 

Your lack of a follow-up prompts your parents to move on. They know that when you’re in the mood to talk, you will and when you’re quite passive, it means you aren’t. 

Your mom turns to Jungkook instead and asks him what else he’s up to other than his various jobs and looking after Jimin. He looks at you before his gaze shifts towards them.

“Not much else, auntie,” he replies. 

The crack of your heart knows you completely messed up, because if it stings like this, then you know it hurt him even more.

“Oh, is there no one special in your life?” She asks, as she often does. Given that she treats Jungkook as part of the family, she’s lost all filter when it comes to him, too. “I recently met with my friend and her daughter. She’s such a lovely young woman, Kook, she’s brilliant and oh so charming. She’s in Busan for the week, too. Do you want to—”

“Is it time for dessert?” Jimin butts in, not wanting this conversation to continue. 

He knows Jungkook wouldn’t know how to turn your mother down, and if he even slightly entertains the idea to appease her, you’d be the one upset, even if you technically put this upon yourself. Jimin already sees you a bit uncomfortable, and if there’s anything he can do to not make this worse for you and his best friend, it’s to be a brat. 

“Oh, yes. Your father made an apple pie and some ice cream,” she says. “Let me—”

“I’ll get it,” you offer, standing up from your seat now.

You don’t want to know what your mom’s other propositions would be. You’re sure she’ll find some person’s son to match you with, given that she’s done that a few times after your breakup with Namjoon. You’re also not ready for Jungkook to agree with her about meeting someone, even if you know he won’t mean it.

Which is really stupid because if you’d just told them the truth, then you’ll be having a completely different conversation, although you’re unsure if you’re ready for that one, too. But at least Jungkook wouldn’t look as upset as he does right now, as he’s resorted to picking on his food instead of finishing it, which tells you that he’s lost his appetite and that’s never a good thing. 

You go to the kitchen to slice the pie and scoop the ice cream. You do it so slowly to lengthen the time before you’re back there, only because you don’t want to know what else they’re talking about. 

You’re in the middle of cursing yourself when you feel the sting of a tiny pinch on your arm, and you yelp in pain and smack your brother’s chest in reflex.

“Ow!” You yell, frowning at the man before you and ignoring your mother’s order to “behave,” even if they’re used to you two quarreling. 

“You deserve that,” Jimin scowls at you. “Because what the fuck was that?!”

“I know,” you sigh, glancing at Jungkook who’s trying his best to be interested in what your parents are saying. “I… froze. You know what they wanted to hear, Chim. All those things about my friends’ boyfriends and what they do? I just didn’t want them to compare them to what Jungkook does if I tell them.”

“Why, what’s wrong with what he does?” Your brother raises an eyebrow.

“Nothing. It’s just… you know how focused they are on career stability and shit like that,” you try to explain. “You heard what dad was telling him earlier. I just didn’t want Jungkook to hear any underhanded comments from them and then feel bad about it.”

“And you think denying that you’re dating is any better?” He chides. “That’s literally worse!”

“I—”

“Jungkook knows how our parents are. And after you got together, he already anticipated that they’d question how he’ll be able to sustain your life together once you told them about your relationship,” Jimin explains. “He was ready for it. I doubt he anticipated this…”

You stand there, the crack in your heart getting deeper and bigger as the seconds pass. You hadn’t realized that Jungkook was already confiding in Jimin about any concerns he’d have about facing your parents. You suppose he would, given that you said you’d tell them when you saw them the one time that Jungkook asked if they knew, and you didn’t raise it again after. Living in your bubble together seemed more important, and you’d forgotten to mentally prepare yourself for this conversation.

“Chim, I fucked up,” you pout. 

If it were about anything else, Jimin would push it. It’s how you always were, and you’ve reached that point  in your relationship where you could call each other out and know it comes from a good place. But he doesn’t want to do this today, not when you’re already sad and guilty and he doesn’t want you to feel worse. He doesn’t want to take sides, even if he’ll admit that you were in the wrong, but he doesn’t want to antagonize you either.

“Hey,” he nudges your arm. “It’s not the end of the world. You’re both gonna figure it out. I don’t know how hard he’ll take this but he’s a really soft-hearted person, so just… keep that in mind, okay?”

You nod, wanting to believe that you’ll be able to fix it. 

“And don’t hate yourself too much,” your brother adds. “He’s really, really into you. I just know he won’t be able to resist you.”

You nod again but you think that just makes it worse. You doubt he expected that out of all the people to disappoint him, it would be you. Yet here you are. 

You and Jimin return to the table with the plated desserts. You hand one to Jungkook but he doesn’t acknowledge you. He doesn’t meet your eyes either when it’s all you try to do. He peacefully eats his apple pie while you feign interest at your parents talking about their recent weekend at a spa. 

When everyone’s done, he helps Jimin clean up. It’s how you know that Jungkook’s considered part of the family, as your parents don’t stop him from doing so, unlike when it comes to other guests or your friends. 

You watch helplessly as he washes the dishes, turning down your offer to help. You take the rest of the plates and walk towards him instead, standing close so you could place them in the sink. He just moves his arms to give you space then returns to his task, not sparing you a glance. 

You stay with your parents in the dining area to talk about their trip. They leave you with important documents and give you instructions should anything bad happen to them while they’re away, as they always do whenever they go on a trip. Everything is your responsibility as the eldest, they remind you. 

They finally go to their room to continue packing and you sit on the corner of the couch where Jimin and Jungkook have just finished watching some video of a guy reacting to other videos. You constantly glance at your boyfriend but he seems to be intent on not giving you attention because he’s not like this - he always wants to be close to you, needing his hand to be touching your arm or your thigh or even your hair, and his pretty eyes locked on you. But not tonight.

You recall how months ago, you avoided him because of what you started to feel. And perhaps this is how he felt then - helpless, unsure, and desperate for you to be next to him again. 

You find the tiniest bit of courage and call out his name, hoping he’d at least turn to you this time. 

“Kook, I’m—”

“Hey, we should probably play now so we finish early,” Jungkook nudges Jimin’s knee. “It’s been a long day; I don’t really want to stay up late.”

Your brother looks at you in apology as he responds to the man on his left in agreement. They both head up, leaving you rooted in your seat, wishing that Jungkook would turn around to tell you that he doesn’t mean creating this distance, but he doesn’t. 

And you wouldn’t blame him. You’d stay away from you, too.

You end up watching Aliens on your own, crouched on your corner of the couch with the large blanket over you. You give up after an hour, once the movie starts getting intense and scary though. There’s no Jungkook to hold you during the jumpscares, or to tease you about your screaming, or to assure you that he’ll protect you from all types of monsters. 

There’s no Jungkook next to you but you want him there, and it’s another half hour later when you decide that you’re not going to bed without speaking to him. 

You hate sleeping sad and upset. You don’t like ending the day not being on good terms with him. There are so many things you want to tell him but more than anything, you just want to hold him close. He always said he liked that, because even during the times when there’s so much to say or feel, falling into each other’s arms is the easiest thing to do. It says enough. It shows enough. And you’ve both survived misunderstandings and stressful moments by holding each other, and then holding each other closer.

Walking up the stairs and towards Jimin’s room, the nerves kick in. Jungkook has been ignoring you the whole evening and you’re unsure if he’s willing to hear you out. 

But you try, as you knock on the door, your heart beating fast when it slowly opens. Your brother’s downcast eyes meet you and you don’t need to say anything else. 

He opens the door wider then turns to the man lying on a mattress on the floor.

“Kook, my sister’s looking for you.”

You glance at him, dressed in that black tank top that always made you breathless, but once again, he avoids your gaze. But he does stand up after a nudge on the foot from your brother and walks over to you.

“Can we, uh…” you gesture towards the room just across the hallway.

He doesn’t say anything but he doesn’t shut you out, which is a good thing. You take it as your cue to start walking and you hear his footsteps right behind you. 

You let him in then close the door behind him. There’s so much you want to say, like you’re sorry and that you were stupid, that you didn’t mean to deny him but that you didn’t know how to tell your parents, or what you were even nervous about. You want to say that you just want to spend tonight wrapped up in his arms and apologizing in all the ways that you can.

But instead of uttering the words, your throat dries up. Seeing him standing there with that upset and disinterested look on his face breaks you a little. So you reach out, your hands pressing gently on his chest to try to feel him, to be close to him, hopefully to hold him and make your mistake go away. 

“Kook, I…” you tremble, trying so hard to find the words.

Jungkook looks back at you, your face nervous and unsure, unlike his that’s probably still painted with disappointment. 

He still doesn’t know what to make of your denial. He’s been trying to see things from your point of view all evening, but doing so only in his head because verbalizing them, especially to his best friend, makes it sting a bit more. Maybe Jimin can explain on your behalf but that would just confirm to Jungkook one of two things - that you don’t really intend on telling your parents about both of you for whatever reason he can’t comprehend, or you don’t think he measures up to their expectations and for that, you might just think he’s not good enough for you. 

He doesn’t think he’s ready for that, so he shuts Jimin down when he asks. They watched videos earlier to have something to laugh about but he was faking it. He suggested playing a game just so he wouldn’t respond to you calling him earlier but all they’ve done since going to the room is lie in silence. 

Jungkook doesn’t want to talk about it with his best friend. And he certainly doesn’t want to talk about it with you. He doesn’t want an explanation right now. It’s not what he wants to hear. 

And it seems as if it’s something you’re even struggling to give him, as you stand there quivering, your hands slowly trying to pull him closer to you. 

It’s what you usually do when you can’t find the words to express something - when you’re stressed and frustrated, when you want to patch things up after a small misunderstanding, when you want his comfort. And he always loved it when you did. He always willingly gave you that hug and that kiss and those whispers of “it’s okay” and “we’re okay” and “I’m just here.” 

But not tonight, not when there’s this unnamed thing that’s eating him inside, and not even you can fix it. 

“I don’t… I don’t really wanna do this right now,” he mutters, taking your hands to slowly slide them off him. 

The look of hurt in your eyes is one that’ll probably haunt him for a while, but he’ll learn to deal with that. It’s better than talking with you about something that you don’t even know how to express. 

This isn’t like him. It’s not like him to be upset at you like this, to not want to comfort you, to not want to be around you. This messes him up, too, and all he can do is step away and walk out.

He doesn’t really wanna be here, he thinks to himself as he enters the room just across, to the surprise of Jimin who half expected both of you to have made up. Jungkook would go home if he only brought his keys and it wasn’t too late to ask his parents to open the door for him.

But his best friend’s floor mattress will do for now. And so Jungkook puts on his earpods and plays whatever music is loud enough to shut out the thought of you until he falls asleep. 

In the other room, you lay in your bed in complete silence. You don’t want to cry, only because he’s not there to wipe your tears away. And you don’t ever want to know what that’s like, so you don’t. You keep the tears at bay and force yourself to drift away. 

You jerk awake the next morning to your mother knocking on your door. You promised to do errands with her today, so you get off the bed and yell out that you’ll just fix up.

“No rush, dear. I’m still having breakfast with your father. You can join us when you’re ready.”

You head down and eat the pastries that they brought from the cafe. You don’t have much appetite and these will suffice, but your mind goes to Jungkook and how he was craving kimchi fried rice and spam yesterday. 

So that’s what you make for him and Jimin. You even prepare iced coffee the way they like it. You’re about to set the dish aside for them to heat up when you hear rushed footsteps down the stairs and you know they’ve woken up.

“Wahhh, it smells so good,” Jimin exclaims as he walks over to the counter while his best friend sits on the table. “Did you make something, dad?”

“Oh, your sister cooked for you and Jungkook,” your father hums. “It’s making me hungry now.”

“There’s still some in here if you want,” you call out, with him responding that he’ll get some later.

You serve the dish in two bowls. You hand one to Jimin and then place the other in front of Jungkook without sparing him a glance. 

“Iced coffee is in the refrigerator,” you tell them. 

You hear Jimin’s little squeal before he gets them. “Where you off to?” He asks.

“I’m running errands with mom.”

“Make sure you two make it in time for dinner, okay?” Your father says.

“Of course. I can’t miss your steak, dad,” you give him a small smile. 

“Good. I prepared meat good enough for five Actually, six. I count Jungkook as two people,” he laughs. 

The thought of this comfort and familiarity hurts you because you’re the one who made Jungkook think otherwise. You see him smile at your father’s remark but you turn away when he looks your way. You know he’s still upset and you don’t want to force it if he’s not yet ready to speak with you. You also haven’t gotten over the way he pulled away from you last night, and so looking at him today is a little difficult.

“You’re still joining us at the party, right?” Jimin asks. 

Their friend, Hari, whom you know briefly dated Jungkook in high school, is celebrating her birthday tonight. Their group always looked to you as the cool sister so you’re always invited to whatever they’ve got going, and while the three of you talked about attending later, after what you did, you doubt Jungkook would want you to spoil his evening. You’re also not exactly in the partying mood for obvious reasons.

“I’ll pass, Chim,” you respond. “You guys should have a best friend night.”

You go back to your room to fix up before joining your mother to head out. 

Back in the dining room, Jimin nudges Jungkook’s knee.

“She’s still playing favorites,” he playfully rolls his eyes as he gestures to the generous amount of spam in his best friend’s bowl compared to his decent serving. 

Jungkook just hums, guilt forming that he didn’t even thank you for this because he really has been craving it. Before any of them could say anything more, your father speaks up.

“Your sister okay, son?”

“Uh, yeah? Why wouldn’t she be?” Jimin nervously answers.

“She just doesn’t seem like herself, that’s all,” your old man replies.

“Maybe it’s work. It’s been tough lately,” your brother reasons. 

“But she’s more tired and frustrated when it comes to work but that’s not what she is. Maybe it’s a guy.”

At this, Jungkook chokes on his food, and he’s glad your father doesn’t react.

“What makes you think so?” Jimin asks, his eyes flitting to his best friend.

“Hmm, it just seems different,” your father insists. “Or maybe it’s just wishful thinking on my end. She hasn’t introduced anyone since Namjoon. And I wish she would, just so we know she’s moved on, you know? And that the breakup isn’t still hurting her.”

“She has, and it doesn’t affect her anymore,” Jimin confirms, certain of at least that bit.

“Then why hasn’t she introduced anyone yet?”

“Maybe it’s because you really liked Namjoon, and he seems to be your standard so ___ is just probably just taking her time.”

“Well it’s because he’s smart and stable and very self-assured and—”

“Also very much married. And a soon-to-be father,” Jimin interjects, already being protective of you. 

He wonders now if this is how your parents talk about him to you, and that you’ve always just protected him from all of it.

“Oh,” your father sighs. “It could’ve been her.”

“But it isn’t and that’s totally fine,” Jimin exclaims. “She’s young and she’s got time. And who knows, maybe that’s not the life she wants, or at least not yet? If you could accept my version of happiness, you should be able to accept hers, too. And what does ‘stable’ even mean?”

“Someone with ambition, with a direction,” your old man explains. “Someone who’s secure and financially capable of sustaining this good life that your mom and I gave you both.”

“Those are all the things she is, too, you know?” Jimin frowns. “And also, I love you, dad, but you’re old. By that I mean your thinking is old. It’s outdated. You think stability is about prestige and money and I get that but… that’s not everything. There are other things that matter to her and if you lessened the pressure a bit, you’d see that. She’s your daughter, don’t you want her to be happy? To be loved?”

“Of course I do,” your father sighs. 

“Well then don’t let your version of what a good partner is dictate her life,” Jimin advises. “She’s a grown up, she knows what she wants and how to get it. But she’s also your daughter who doesn’t want to worry or disappoint you. What if she’s found someone who makes her happy and treats her right but she’s nervous of what you’d think because of all these expectations you have of her?”

Jimin’s eyes flit to his best friend again who’s quietly munching on his food but is clearly taking in this exchange. While Jimin still thinks you were wrong to deny your relationship, he at least hopes that Jungkook could understand what was going through your mind and it was all this. 

“Well if she has then I’d want to meet him,” your father insists. 

“And maybe you will, once she stops feeling the pressure of what she’s supposed to be for you and who she’s supposed to date,” Jimin explains. 

“I guess you’re right.”

“Of course I’m right, dad,” Jimin groans. “I lived with her for months and she just… she worries about a lot of things. It would be nice if she doesn’t worry about this. So please, stop with all the projections and underhanded remarks, okay? She sees right through you. Just let her live her life.”

A smile forms on your father’s face. It was never his intention to put all that pressure on you but he supposes you just accepted that it comes with the territory. But he realizes it shouldn’t be. His son’s right - he’s old. He and your mother worked hard so that you and your brother could have a life where you didn’t have to worry about anything, but he supposes the intention got muddled along the way. At least you and Jimin have each other.

“I know you and your sister don’t like to admit it but it’s really touching to see how similar you both are,” your father says.

“Excuse me, I’m cooler and funnier and definitely more talented,” Jimin pouts. 

“Maybe,” your old man laughs. “But she’s sat on that same chair, lecturing me and your mom about letting you live your life and now you’re doing the same. She’s your biggest advocate and your biggest protector. It’s just nice to see how you’re the same for her.”

Running errands with your mother has always been your responsibility, but it’s once you’ve hit your late-twenties mark that you’ve come to appreciate it. 

You learn a lot about the practical stuff like insurance and emergency funds and inheritance when you accompany her to the bank. You’re also reminded that sometimes you have to spend more to make things last when she drops off her clothes at the laundry service and picks up the bag and shoes she had professionally cleaned. You also remember the important things like buying flowers and leaving them on your grandparents’ graves. 

You’ve just left the shopping center after she bought your father an anniversary gift, and her excitement over the satchel and perfume she got him has you smiling. You wonder how differently she feels for him 30 years later, and if this life they have together is everything she imagined it to be.

“Was it hard at the beginning? Being married to dad?” You ask. 

“Of course, dear,” she answers. “Because it’s how marriages typically go. Your father and I were together for two years before we got married and it was a big change. You just… learn to consider another person, and you get used to someone always being around you.”

“It’s a good thing you can stand each other then,” you chuckle. 

“That’s true,” she laughs back. “You’d be surprised to know how many married couples can’t. But we just always managed. And we had to be on each other’s side, you know? It’s the reason why we’ve lasted as long as we have.”

She looks quite emotional as she says the words and it’s probably because of what they’ll be celebrating soon but she turns to you with a smile.

“Your father’s parents wanted me to become a housewife, a stay-at-home mom who just ran the household,” she continues. “But I wanted to work so I could help my parents, and your father stood by my decision. He saw how working gave him financial freedom and he wanted that for me, too. And we just… worked hard. We fought a lot at the start because we were building our careers and raising a family but we knew it would all be worth it, as long as we stood by each other.”

“Then I suppose that’s what’s important in a partner, isn’t it?” You say. “Being dependable, being supportive, not… not what kind of career they have.”

“Well, a stable career helps,” she points out. “I mean, it’s how your father and I got to afford sending you and your brother to good schools. It’s how we could afford trips as a family and how your father and I can be secure at this age without needing much help from our children.”

“But that’s also because you worked hard, plain and simple. And you and dad had each other and overcame whatever challenges you faced together. You can’t say the same for all married couples,” you push. 

“That’s true. I mean, it wasn’t like this during our parents’ time. I guess people had less options then. The world’s changed so much, hasn’t it?”

“It has,” you hum. “Not everyone cares much about their partner’s upward mobility and stuff like that. They want to savor the good life their parents gave them. And because they work hard, too, they just want someone to enjoy it with them. You know, like me.”

There’s a beat of silence as your mother processes your words. 

“Is that why it didn’t work out with Namjoon?” She asks, reminding you that you’d only given them a general reason as to why things ended.

“We spent too much time planning for our future that we kinda lost our way,” you explain. “I guess that’s when I realized that I wanted someone to enjoy the moments with, regardless of what they do for a living. And we’ll never know what life will throw our way and I need someone who’ll stand by me, the way I’ll stand by them. You know, cheesy things like that.”

You smile to yourself as you think about Jungkook and his shameless affection that he shows in so many ways. You enjoy the cheesiness but you’ll deny it first before admitting it. But then again, he probably knows already. He pays attention to you after all. 

“Well, I suppose that’s why we wanted to give you and your brother a good and secure life, so that you can enjoy it,” your mother hums.

“Exactly. You raised us well, mom. We’re not gonna throw our lives away, however we choose to live it, and with whom,” you assure her. 

She gives you a warm smile. She takes your hand at the stoplight and caresses it. Perhaps it’s the assurance you need, too.

You return home to your father preparing the meat for tonight’s dinner. There’s a platter of steak, vegetables, and sausages that he’s seasoning to grill, and you can imagine how happy this is gonna make Jungkook. He always liked it when your dad prepared dishes like this paired with your mom’s spicy chicken soup, and you wish you could enjoy it together. 

But you’re giving him space to feel what he feels and you’re doing the same, even if all you want to do is apologize. You haven’t had an issue quite like this, so things are a little unfamiliar to you. You tried to talk to him last night but he wasn’t ready, and you’re unsure when he will be. 

You head towards the counter and cut up the vegetables for the soup before slicing the fruits. You’re focused on your task, knowing how sharp the knives are, but it’s at the same time that your brother and Jungkook arrive. Seeing your boyfriend look as good as he does in that denim jacket-over tank top fit is so sinful; it’s a crime you’re not talking that it distracts you, and it’s what causes you to slice through your finger and yelp in pain.

“Did you hurt yourself, dear?” Your mom asks as she stirs the pot. 

“Yeah,” you say, placing your hand under running water.

You’re about to ask Jimin to get the First Aid kit from the drawer but Jungkook gets to it first, knowing where it is. 

He knows that your brother, who’s terrified of blood, won’t help you, and despite your situation, Jungkook can’t stand not helping. So he lathers an antiseptic once the bleeding has stopped, then he wraps a band-aid around it. Just like him, you focus your gaze on your finger. Or maybe you’re stuck on the way he tends to you. Or the fact that this is the most physical touch you’ve done this past day when you normally can’t take your hands off each other. 

He sighs to himself. If he wasn’t so hung up on his hurt feelings, he’d be able to tend to you better. This might not even have happened if he’d just spoken to you last night. 

But he shakes the thought away. He’s still upset. But he’ll always want to take care of you; that’s the one thing that won’t ever change.

“Thank you,” you mumble, still not meeting his eyes.

“I’ll do this,” he says, waiting for you to step aside before he takes your place. 

“Jungkook dear, do you mind helping me with the glazed potatoes after you finish that?” She asks.

“Sure thing, auntie,” he replies. 

You watch him work around the kitchen the way he’s done so many times before, and your heart stings at the sight because you want to be doing this with him, with your parents, in your family kitchen. But it’s not like you could talk to him right now, not when you don’t know how to say what you want to say. So you head outside to where your dad is grilling the meat and help him instead. 

It’s not long after when dinner is ready, and you’re seated across Jungkook again. It’s a little tense when you look at him when he looks away, but Jimin thankfully finds a way to keep the conversation light and focused on him.

Your parents insist that both men don’t need to help clean up, and Jimin asks you if you’re really not going.

“Yeah I’ll just… stay home, make sure mom and dad are packed well and just get everything in order for tomorrow,” you say, half lying. 

“Gee, you make me look like a useless child,” Jimin pouts.

“You’re alright,” you hum. “You can drive them to the airport tomorrow.”

“But mom asked Jungkook to do that.”

“Well then you could just… make them a card or something,” you shrug. 

Your brother sticks his tongue at you and you do the same. 

“Fine, we’ll head out,” he announces.

“You guys have fun,” you say softly, glancing at Jungkook before walking towards the sink to do your duty. 

You turn to your brother. “Call me if you need me to pick you up. No driving drunk, okay?”

He salutes you in response then heads out after Jungkook.

It’s uneventful after that. You help your parents with last minute packing then have a long shower. You lie on your bed and mindlessly watch some movie on your laptop hoping that you’ll fall asleep soon, and that when you wake up, you’ll find the strength to go to Jungkook and tell him that you’re sorry and that you don’t want to go another day without him. 

“Hey, Jungkook. Dance with me.”

Jungkook looks up to find Hari and gives the same answer he’s given the last two times.

“Sorry, I’m injured,” he says. 

She raises her eyebrow as if she doesn’t believe him and he can’t blame her; he doesn’t exactly know how to act like it.

“Oh, Jimin. There you are,” she chirps as the said man approaches the table. “Dance with me.”

“Sorry, I'm injured.”

“Great. It’s my birthday and I spot two hot guys in this party without girls around them and they’re fake injured,” she scowls. “What’s up with you two?”

“I’m not in the mood,” Jungkook shrugs.

“I’m babysitting,” Jimin says, gesturing at his friend. “But Mingyu and Eunwoo are right there. Go tell them to dance with you.”

“Fine. I’ll get in line then,” she rolls her eyes then walks away.

“How come no one believes me when I say I’m injured?” Jungkook asks as he munches on the fried chicken wings his best friend got.

“Because you’re a terrible actor. People believe me because I’m believable,” Jimin hums.

“They believe you because you posted all over social media that you hurt your ankle,” Jungkook corrects. 

“Yeah but that was like, half a year ago.”

“Why are you even pretending you’re injured? You don’t have to stay with me, you know? Go to the dance floor and have fun. That’s your thing.”

“Well, maybe I’m also not in the mood because my best friend’s sulking,” Jimin frowns. 

“Gee, I wonder why.”

“You know my sister’s sorry, right?”

“She’s ashamed, that’s what she is. And I’m just supposed to live with that.”

Jimin sighs as he watches his best friend mindlessly stare out onto the dance floor. Jungkook’s probably trying to rid himself of the image of both of you dancing and kissing and having fun if you were here. He could be making sense of what he feels, or his mind could also just be completely blank right now.

But what Jimin knows is that another glass of whiskey is something that Jungkook shouldn’t be having, so he stops his best friend from ordering another one.

“You might get drunk and then you’ll call or go see her and then you’ll say things you’ll regret and then you’ll hurt her and you’ll get even more hurt and you’ll have a harder time fixing things and then it just won’t stop and you’ll feel stupid because you’re not talking over something you could easily fix,” Jimin heaves. 

It’s a lot to process but Jungkook knows that Jimin’s right. He’ll just get too emotional and won’t be able to control himself and despite what he feels, hurting you is the last thing he wants.

So he orders water instead, finishes it, then heads for the door.

“I don’t wanna be here anymore,” he says. “I need to get some air.”

They end up at a park, the one that you used to hang at with your friends in high school. Jungkook knows because he always accompanied Jimin there when you’d tell him where to meet you. It’s peaceful at this time of night and much more beautiful, too. It’s no surprise he keeps thinking that you’re right next to him, with your head on his chest and laughing at his jokes. 

“Why is this affecting me so much?” He wonders out loud. “Why am I so hurt and so stubborn?”

“Because she said something she shouldn’t have. But also because you put her on a pedestal,” Jimin answers. “She made a mistake, and you’re free to fault her for it. I mean, anytime someone we care about hurts us, it sucks like hell. But you also have to think that maybe it’s affecting you as much as it does because she’s always been faultless in your eyes and she isn’t.”

The reality is a slap on the face, but one that Jungkook thinks he needs to have. You were everything he ever wanted and these past three months have been a bliss. But now that reality hits and you have to face the pressure that’s part of your life, your humanness is showing. And that’s what he’s always liked about you, isn’t it? The imperfections and the flaws? Now that those are affecting him, it’s affecting him hard, and he’s having a hard time getting over it.

“Maybe once you accept that she’s human and not just the dream you’ve had since forever, then you’ll realize that things like that happen but she never means to hurt you,” Jimin adds. “You can’t think that she does. You learn to work it out by facing it, Kook. You have to talk about it. You have to tell her it hurts and you have to listen to what she says, and then you forgive. That’s kind of how grownup relationships go.”

“Guess I’ve never had one before, huh?”

“Maybe they just didn’t mean enough to hurt you.”

“This means everything, then,” Jungkook sighs, as things get clearer in his mind. “Because I think what hurts more now is not being next to her.”

“Great! Then can both of you patch things up now?” Jimin beams, feeling hopeful. “I hate seeing both of you sad and so stupid. Plus, my parents are leaving tomorrow and you won’t have a buffer anymore. So please just talk.”

Jungkook admits feeling touched. He knows at the end of the day, Jimin cares about him and you more than anyone, and he probably misses being around both of you at the same time. Jungkook does, too, but he misses you the most and it’s only been a day.

“Tomorrow,” he says. “I don’t know what to tell her and it’s late. She might be asleep and—”

“Now you’re just making excuses,” Jimin crosses his arms.

“Well, what if I expect her to be the one to talk to me?”

“She tried but you didn’t want to, remember?”

“That was last night. The wound was still fresh,” Jungkook pouts. 

“Oh god. I feel like I’m dealing with children,” Jimin groans.

“Imagine how we felt taking care of you,” Jungkook answers back.

“At least I was just one person,” Jimin rolls his eyes. 

“Your dramatics were equivalent to two people though.”

Both men bicker as they walk back to the car. It started to drizzle so they decided to go back to their respective homes. Jungkook could stay over at your place and maybe talk to you if he really wants to but he’s seriously just chickening out over it. 

He’s never had to make up with you because none of your previous arguments ever led to you not talking to each other, or him pushing you away. He’s never had to spend a day ignoring you. And now, there’s so much to say and so much to feel but he doesn’t know how to approach it. He’ll need tonight to sort himself out and then he’ll speak to you, maybe after he drives your parents to the airport. Or maybe on the way back. 

He drops Jimin off; 30 seconds later, he’s home, too. You’re so close but so far away just like you used to be. But at least this time he knows that when the next day comes, he’ll have a chance to just pull you close and tell you he doesn’t want to be like this ever again.

There’s an incessant knocking on your door, and as you’re about to yell out that you’re asleep, you realize it might be Jungkook. You sit up on your bed and when the door opens and you see your brother instead, your face falls.

“It’s just me, unfortunately,” he says. “Kook’s back at his place.”

“Oh,” you sigh. “Why are you home so early? It’s like, 11.”

“Because after the third girl, his fake injury excuse wore off and people just didn’t believe him. We looked like losers sitting on the table eating chicken,” Jimin chuckles. “So we left after an hour then went to a park and I knocked some sense into him and now he’s not so upset anymore. And I’m here to knock some sense into you, too.”

“I already know I made a mistake, Chim. I’m… I’m so fucking stupid. I just… don’t want him to think that I’m ashamed of him or that I don’t think he’s enough or any of that. I mean I’m—”

“Crazy about him, right?”

“I kinda am,” you smile softly.

“Good, because so is he and he’s hoping you’d go talk to him even if he says he’ll talk to you tomorrow. Don’t waste time anymore and—”

You’re bolting off your bed and putting on your hoodie before your brother could finish his sentence. 

“If mom and dad look for me, tell them I—”

“Got attacked by a clown in the sewer.”

You look at him incredulously then realize you’re wearing yellow then you frown. 

“Just make up some excuse. I’ll… hopefully be back in the morning,” you say.

“Alright. It’s drizzling though so—”

And just like that, you’re gone.

It takes all but 10 seconds for the rain to pour, and your hoodie and sweatpants are no match for it. You groan at your brother for underselling the weather but then again, you also should be thanking him for telling you what you needed to hear - that Jungkook’s not so upset anymore and that he’s hoping you’d speak to him. 

Much as you think you would’ve taken any chance today to patch things up, you also would’ve frozen in front of him. You suppose you needed to know he was ready for you, and if he wouldn’t tell you, then of course, Jimin would. You just really wish he had the foresight to know it would rain this hard but you’re probably asking for too much. 

But Jungkook’s place is just a few blocks from yours so you power through. When you get there, you realize that you forgot your phone, so you make the stupid decision of climbing over the short fence and then hitting your cut finger in the process. 

You have no time to feel pain though, as the next order of business is getting Jungkook’s attention. But before you can execute your plan of throwing rocks on his window, the front door opens, and you telepathically thank your brother who probably called your boyfriend to alert him that you’ll be arriving at his place wet from the rain.

“___, what are you doing here?” Jungkook asks with worry painted on his face. 

“I just… I needed to come and see you,” you manage to answer.

His face softens and you feel the hope bloom in your chest. He pulls you inside by the wrist and instructs you to quietly go up the stairs. You’re at least not drenched but you still got wet, so he leads you to the bathroom to wash up. He tells you to wait as he gets you something to change in, and he returns after half a minute with a towel and a large shirt.

“Cream and band-aid, for your wound,” he says, placing them on the counter. “My room’s the second door to the right, in case you forgot.”

You take him in, in his black tank top and shorts, his tongue playing with his lip ring the way he always does when he’s nervous. You manage to nod before he heads out, and you take a quick shower and then pull his oversized shirt over you. 

You quietly walk to his room, knocking on the door first before opening it slowly. It’s a bit dim but seeing him is all you need. After placing your clothes on the nearby chair, you look at him again. 

He looks tired and worried. He also looks like he has so much to say but he doesn’t know where to start. There’s a hint of sadness in his eyes but there’s longing, too, and you suppose he’s mirroring how you look. You feel a lot. You also want to say a lot, but you don’t know where or how to start. 

So you do the one thing you know often works. You approach him then wrap your arms around his torso. You fall into his embrace as quickly as he falls into yours, as he seems to have the same idea. You hold him tighter and pull him closer. You flush your cheeks on his chest while he buries his face on your neck. You grip his top and he does the same with yours. Your heart beats fast in longing and you feel his own do the same, too. 

There’s so much to feel and say but this is all you can do. And right now, it’s quite enough. 

You loosen your grip, but only so you could nuzzle his neck while your arms wrap around them. He feels so warm and he smells so delicate and he’s all you need.

“You knew I was coming?” You ask, turning to him

“Jimin said you were on your way without an umbrella and your phone,” Jungkook chuckles. But his face softens as he wipes the lone tear that falls down your cheek. “You’re lucky it wasn’t a typhoon or anything.”

“I had to get to you,” you mumble. 

“He also told me he wasn’t subtle in telling you to come here.”

“Well, he did say you wanted me to talk to you. And I wanted to. I just wasn’t sure if you were ready to hear me out and I was… giving you space.”

“Yeah well, I don’t know what to do with that space without you there,” he sighs, his eyes shy and absolutely adorable.

“Neither do I,” you smile. “So, uh. Will you invite me to your bed, maybe fill that space and more?”

“Of course,” he laughs, taking your hand and leading you there. 

You get under the covers and once he lies next to you, you scoot closer, hugging him again until you’re laying on top of him. But he doesn’t complain. He just hugs you back tightly, pulling you closer until he’s able to bask in your scent and the warm feel of you.

But despite the relief, you know you actually have to do the talking. You pull away and lay on your side. You take in his beauty and his softness and the way they make you feel like all is right again in the world. Your fingers trace his face, from his nose to his cheek to his lips, and he does the boyfriend thing of kissing your hand - including your cut finger - before wrapping it around his waist. He looks like he’s anticipating your words, too, so you try and hope they’re enough.

“Kook, I’m so sorry,” you start. “I… I have no excuse. I was being selfish and cowardly because I didn’t know how to tell my parents. I didn’t want to deal with what they’ll say about your job, knowing how they are and what they value and I just…”

“That’s for me to deal with though,” he says. “Because I chose this. And I’ve always known how they are but I still chose you.”

“It’s for us to deal with, and I did it so terribly,” you shake your head. “I don’t want you to think that I’m ashamed of you and what you do. That freedom, the ability to create… they’re things they don’t really understand. And I thought I knew how to make them. I just ended up denying us and that was so wrong. I’m so sorry.”

“I… I get it,” he responds, caressing your cheek now. “They worked so hard to give you this life and of course they want to make sure you’re taken care of. And for them, they only know of one way that could happen. I’d be naive to think they’ll just accept that the man who’s crazy about their daughter isn’t some corporate dude with secure employment and upward mobility in his career.”

He doesn’t miss your shy smile and the way you nibble your lip and that just triggers the butterflies in his belly. 

“But that’s for me to show them that I can take care of you, and not because you can’t do it yourself but because I want to,” he adds. “I… I wanna be that person who makes things better and easier for you and who makes you happy.”

And who makes you feel loved, he doesn’t say. That’s a conversation for another day, he thinks.

“You do,” you assure him. “And I feel it everyday. You’re good at that, and I don’t tell you enough.”

“I know now,” he smiles, leaning closer to kiss you softly. 

You return it but pull away. “Do you forgive me?”

“Of course I do,” he says, falling into the kiss that he gives again.

“Okay. I don’t wanna hurt you like that ever again.”

Your pouty face tugs his heart and he wants to tell you that none of that matters now because you’re back in each other’s arms, and that’ll always be enough for him. 

He just hums as he goes for another kiss that’s deeper this time. And when you let him push you to lay on your back as you moan against his lips, his heart soars even more. He’s missed you, and it’s definitely going to be a long night.

He hovers over you now, and he shivers when your fingers graze his neck and then his chest. You open your legs to meet his hips, and the feel of your clothed cunt against him has his brain short-circuiting. He gets in the rhythm of grinding against you while he kisses your lips then your jaw then your neck, his hand now sneaking under your shirt to fondle your breast.

It’s when he sucks on that sensitive part near your ear that you yelp in pleasure, and he immediately covers your mouth with his hand while he giggles.

“Gotta keep it down babe,” he whispers. “My parents are in the other room.”

But he doesn’t stop his kissing and you don’t really want him to.

“It’s not like you’re making it any easier,” you moan as he pinches your pert nipple.

“I’m not and I won’t, but you gotta try,” he smirks before his lips trail downward.

You’re unable to say anything once his tongue swirls around your buds. His hands wrap around your breasts that he praises, that he kisses and licks before slowly letting them go to hold onto your waist this time. He presses open-mouth kisses down your torso, his lips in tandem with your underwear that’s teasingly being removed off of you. 

You hear him let out a breathy moan as he spreads your legs wider. 

And while you know that this tender-hearted man has a cheeky streak in him, you didn’t expect for him to have his finger against his lips to shush you, knowing what he’s about to do. His smug face turns you on even more, and your breath is caught in your throat once you feel his tongue flat against your flesh, warming it up before the tip of his wet muscle swirls around your nub.

But you go along with his request, biting back your moan, even as your pussy chases his mouth for more. 

And it’s what he gives, as he dives in and sucks and bites your clit while his two fingers explore your hole. The cold of his lip ring is a contrast to how hot you feel, and it’s a sensation you can never get enough of. You whimper in silence but you manage to look at him, his eyes closed as he buries his face in your cunt. 

“Look at me,” you whisper and he follows, his gaze meeting yours. “Fuu-uuck, Kook. You feel so good,” your voice quivers.

His mouth’s full but yours is hanging open. You cover yours with your free hand while the other pulls on his long locks. He’s enjoying this so much, you can tell with the way he squeezes your thighs and moans against your skin. He follows a pace that has your body shaking, straining in intense pleasure until it gives in. You let out a low scream as your orgasm hits, and he’s right there, riding out your high with you.

He cleans you up with his tongue and then makes a show of licking your essence off his fingers before kissing you again.

“You did good,” he teases, as he caresses your cheek.

You’re about to say that so did he when bucks his hip against yours, and the feel of his hard cock against your still wet cunt ignites another fire in you. He repeats it, and it’s what has you moaning again.

“Fuck baby, I told you to keep it down,” he says, continuing his movements.

You know you can’t help it at this point, not when he’s back to licking your neck and kneading your breast.

“Whatever. Not like this isn’t new to your parents or anything,” you say. 

It’s a guess but you doubt you’re wrong.

“What? Fucking a girl in my room?” 

“Yeah?”

“But you’re the first girl I ever brought in here,” he cocks an eyebrow. 

“That’s uh, that’s kinda sweet,” you reply, your breath steadying now. 

“Yeah and well, who gets to say they fucked their childhod crush in their childhood bedroom?” He smirks again. “I can.”

He’s back to kissing you and much as you enjoy this, the itch to feel him in your mouth overtakes you, and you take the chance when he trails down your neck.

“So, can this childhood crush suck your dick?” 

“Yes, she can,” he chuckles.

He removes himself from you and leans against his bed frame. You get on your knees and pull off his boxers, salivating at the sight before you. You get on top of him, your damp lips gliding against his hard cock and his mouth drops open, an invitation for you to do what you wish.

With your movements on his hips, you focus on his neck, licking up the smooth flesh and the protruding vein that has him biting back his moan. Then you kiss him, desperately and passionately, as you slowly remove his tank top and rest your hands on his chest.

It’s your turn to trail kisses down his torso now and you give every inch of him ample attention. But when you make it further down, there’s one part of him that deserves so much more. You tease him only a little, stroking his length and kitten-licking his slit, before swallowing him whole and swirling your tongue around and all over his cock. He’s hard and thick and everything you want inside of you.

You hold back a gag while he holds back his whimpers. You stroke him relentlessly so you could watch his mouth hang open and his strained body almost folding in pleasure as his thighs tighten in your hold. 

“You like that, baby?” You hum.

“Fuck, baby, you feel so good around me. Fuck,” he keens, his voice quivering now. 

You let his sounds guide you on how hard and how deep to go, but he’s the one who stops you, as he leans close and captures your lips in a searing kiss. He pulls you back on top of him to slide down his cock and the stretch makes you moan in his mouth. 

He’s propped up on his arms for support while you move up and down, loving how he drags inside you in an angle that has your mind going hazy. You wrap your arms around his neck while he pushes upward to meet you, and somehow doing this while trying to be quiet is making the pleasure more intense.

It gets too much for Jungkook and he wants more. He wants to hit your deepest spots. He wants to be as close to you as he possibly can. He wants to swallow your moans and touch every part of your body and pleasure you in every way that he’s able. 

So he pulls you off and lays you on your side, sliding back in from behind, with your one leg raised. The angle has you keening, even more when his one hand finds your breast and the other does its work on your clit. He pushes gently then roughly, no longer caring about the odd sounds the bed is making against his wall. He wouldn’t mind making up a reason to his parents if they ask him about it. Right now, all he wants is to reach his peak with you. 

Your body is shaking in pleasure and overstimulation but you urge him, wanting to feel his seed inside you as well.

You lick his mouth. “Baby please, I want to feel your cum inside me,” you beg. “I want you so bad, fuck fuck.”

He loves it when you plead to him like this. He loves hearing what he does to you. He revels in the way your body molds into his, the way it aches to be close and to be one with him. His movements continue, and with his unrhythmic pounding against your pussy, he comes. You come right after, caused by his intense fiddling of your clit, and you feel like floating, your body in the clouds of pure pleasure.

But like always, he’s there with you, making sure you safely fall into a bed of hugs and kisses and warmth. He stays inside you as he softens, but his arms wrap around you, his face in your neck as he mumbles words of praise. 

“Fifteen-year-old me would never believe this,” he heaves as he turns you over to face him.

You giggle in response. 

“You’re crazy, you know that?”

“I do. It’s how I am with you. In the best way, of course,” he smiles his boyish smile, an interesting mix of innocent and cheeky.

“It’s the same with me,” you whisper, kissing his nose. “And 18-year-old me would never believe this.”

You wake up the next morning to the alarm that you set on Jungkook’s phone. Your parents are leaving early in the afternoon and they wanted to prepare breakfast for all of you, and it’s a meal with them that you’re excited and a little nervous to have. 

You kiss the chest that your face is flushed against, and this elicits a groan from the man next to you. 

“Good morning, babe,” you greet, shifting up to kiss his nose this time. 

“G’morning,” he grunts.

“So, uh, we’re supposed to meet my parents for breakfast. And uh, I’m going to tell them about us.”

It’s what prompts him to finally open his eyes, and the softness in them makes your heart burst. 

“Okay,” he smiles. “I hope it won’t ruin their trip or anything.”

“It won’t,” you assure him. “I… I tried to get through to my mom yesterday. You know, just telling her the things I value and stuff.”

“Hmm. Jimin did the same with your dad. I guess I won’t be such a disappointment now, huh?”

“Shush, you’re not even that,” you pout. “I think they’ll understand.”

He mirrors your smile and there’s a giddy feeling at finally - hopefully - seeing your parents be happy for you. So you get off the bed and sneak out of Jungkook’s bedroom to go to the bathroom. 

You wash up quickly, only to make it to the hallway and find his parents standing there, wide-eyed as they look at you in surprise. You realize you’re only wearing Jungkook’s shirt that falls just above your knees and you try to cover whatever you can with your hands.

“Hi, uncle. Hi, auntie,” you shyly smile. “This, uh, this isn’t how I wanted to meet you.”

“Well, we don’t really mind,” Jungkook’s mother smiles. “We’re just glad you’re here. It’s been a while since we’ve seen you.”

“I know. I, uh, I wasn’t dating your son yet the last time I was here.”

“And that calls for a celebration, doesn’t it?” She giggles. “That boy has had a crush on you since forever. It’s funny he never believed that we knew. He wasn’t exactly subtle.”

“It’s not the first time I’ve heard that,” you laugh back.

You hear a door open and before you know it, large arms are wrapping around your waist and a mop of hair tickles your cheek. Jungkook grunts against your neck as he says that he’s finally awake, and you cringe at his parents’ amused faces.

“Kook, your parents are in front of us. This is so embarrassing.”

“Nah, they don’t mind. They’re cool,” he says.

“Yeah, and my parents aren’t,” you sigh.

“So, I’m guessing your parents don’t know yet?” His father asks.

Your pout prompts him to explain. “Well, the day after you got together, our lovesick son here told our family about both of you. But he said that you haven't told your parents yet so we’ve kept it from them ever since. It’s hard since we see them all the time but we managed.”

“Kook also told us about what happened,” his mother asks. “He was grumpy all day yesterday and we got him to tell us why he was so upset.”

“I’m sorry,” you pout again. “That wasn’t my finest moment.”

You feel Jungkook’s hold on you tighten, his way of telling you it’s all okay.

“It’s alright, darling,” she smiles. “We know how your parents are, and their reasons come from a good place. We tried to make this boy here understand them and you as well. Firstborns carry immense pressure to meet expectations; he just doesn’t get it because he’s the youngest. But it seems that it’s worked out with both of you, and we’re glad it did.”

“He couldn’t resist me,” you shrug, to his parents’ amusement. 

“Uh, you’re the one who walked through the rain to come see me,” he reminds you, his head popping out of your neck now. 

“You wanted me to.”

He tickles you in response and you’re all laughing in no time. It’s a different dynamic with his parents, as Jungkook always had a very close relationship with them. You saw it as a teenager and now, you get to be part of it, too.

They finally let you go and ask you to have dinner with them tomorrow, and that’s one meal that you’re definitely excited to have. 

You push Jungkook towards the bathroom and then return to his room to dress up. It’s shortly after when you’re both walking the few blocks to your house, fingers interlocked as you give each other comfort.

You make it home and once you unlock the door, you can already hear laughter and clanking pots from the kitchen. You head there, meet Jimin’s smug face, and clear your throat to announce your presence.

“Oh, there you are. We were wondering where you were,” your mother says. “And hi, Jungkook.”

He greets your parents and from behind you, you take his hand again. 

“I went for a walk… with Jungkook.”

He clears his throat and you backtrack.

“I mean, I, uh, was at his place. That’s where I slept.”

“Oh?” Your parents say at the same time, their eyes looking at you in confusion.

“He’s kinda my boyfriend.”

“Kinda? Babe, I think I’m more than ‘kinda’ your boyfriend,” he exclaims. 

Your parents look shocked and next to them, Jimin is laughing in his seat.

“I mean, he is my legit, actual boyfriend,” you correct. “The new thing in my life that I denied is actually him. And the person who stands by me, who makes me enjoy the moments? That’s him, too.”

Their faces soften, and somehow that’s the comfort you need. Perhaps all the talking that you and your brother have done has gotten into them. You wouldn’t be surprised if they talked about it, too.

“Why didn’t you tell us, then?” Your mother asks.

“Because he’s not what you expected,” you sigh. “And I didn’t know how you’d take it.”

“Well, he is your brother’s best friend,” she points out. 

“Who’s had a crush on me since he was a teenager,” you explain.

“That’s… not surprising,” your father laughs. “We could tell.”

“Oh my god, Kook. You are not subtle,” you elbow him. You turn back at them. “But I… I didn’t know how to tell you because you expect me to have a partner who’s part of your world, you know? And Jungkook likes his freedom. He likes his art and… he really likes me. And I happen to really like him, too.”

“He treats you well? Makes you happy? He’s someone you can depend on when things get tough?” Your father asks. 

He smiles tenderly at you and you feel like crying.

“Yes, very much,” you nod.

“Then I think he’s everything we need him to be. A good partner, I’d say.”

You let out a sigh of relief. This is all you needed to hear.

“We’re sorry if you felt like you couldn’t be honest with us,” your mother shakes her head. “I guess we just needed some reminding of what we want for you and your brother. And well, Jungkook’s shown us his heart all these years. He’s always been a part of the family and he’ll be even more.”

They’re words that Jungkook didn’t expect would get him emotional, and he hugs you from behind just to steady himself. But it’s what makes your mother walk towards him for a hug, and your father surprisingly does the same. 

“Alright, I guess it’s fitting to have this family breakfast together,” your mother says.

You all take your seats at the dining table, with yours being next to Jungkook now.

Jimin cheekily smiles. “Well, if this whole dance thing doesn’t work out, I guess I can just be a counselor or family therapist or something.”

“Just don’t call your clients ‘stupid,’” you roll your eyes.

“I won’t. That’s only reserved for you.”

And just like that, everything is as it should be.

You get through breakfast with lots of laughter, as you and Jungkook tell your own versions of the story while Jimin butts in to tell his own. It’s heartwarming to see your parents this way, especially when they tease your boyfriend about his crush on you growing up. 

But even they admit that they’ve depended on him all these years, too, and that they don’t doubt his loyalty and commitment to you. 

You share a tense moment with him after you all drop your parents to the airport, though. Jungkook has just unloaded all their things and as they hug you goodbye, your father teases.

“Just don’t welcome us home and tell us we're grandparents already.”

Jungkook dry laughs and so do you. That’s another topic for another day, you suppose, and while you’re still unsure of having a family, you just know it’s something you’ll both talk about.

You all get home soon after to wash up. Jungkook’s excited about how you’ll spend the day now that you’re both talking again, and you suggest hanging by the beach and then going out for dinner. 

Jimin says he’ll stay home to let you two make up for the past two days and so he could have that online date with Taehyung, and you agree.

You and Jungkook end up having a really good day. 

You go to a mall and walk around. He gets you a pair of stud earrings to commemorate the day you went official to your parents and you buy him a silver chain necklace for the same silly reason, but also because he looks really good in one and you want him to have more. It pairs real nicely with the shirt and joggers casual outfit he’s been sporting these past days, and the teasing look he makes after he puts it on reminds you of that one time his necklace was dangling on your face when he was pounding into you on your couch.

You get fruit drinks and snacks at the stalls you both used to buy from as teenagers, then you head to the beach where you lounge until sunset. You wade in the water, splash each other, and then make out when there’s no one around. 

You feel so free and light, so young and hopeful. These are the moments you love having with him, the ones you like to enjoy and savor and have more of. And you know you’ll have them for the rest of this trip and when you get back to Seoul. 

Jimin joins you for dinner at a burger place, then you all buy cup noodles and beer and head to your favorite park. It’s just like how most of your nights together go, just in the outdoors. You and your brother bicker and Jungkook referees; there’s also the occasional “you’re so cheesy” comment from you to your boyfriend and Jimin’s gagging sound. 

You confirm plans for the rest of the trip. Your parents will be enjoying Hawaii for close to two weeks, and you have all that time to rest and spend time with your two favorite people. You’ll be off work. Jungkook has some projects to finalize while you do your own thing, and Jimin will be watching dance shows to get him inspired. 

But there are more beaches and parks and villages to visit. There’s also that two-night stay at a resort you’ll be having. There are other sites and restaurants to go to, and you’ll be reliving your teenage years together while making new memories.

You’re now back at home, snug in Jungkook’s arms as he leans against the bed frame in your room, with you in between his legs. 

“Today was a really good day,” you say, turning to him after he kisses your cheek.

“Today was amazing,” he hums.

He smiles as he replays the scenes of you shopping for each other, frolicking on the beach, and walking around your favorite spots. They’re all so simple and things you’ve done before but today felt so much more. There was a look in your eyes that held such tenderness and care for him. You held his hand as if you didn’t want to ever let go, as if you didn’t want him to.

“I really like you, Kook,” you mumble, almost like a confession, as if it’s not known. “I don’t know how else to say it.”

His eyes soften, as does his smile that he’s had on pretty much the whole day. But he just looks at you, and though you know he feels the same way, you want to hear him verbalize it again.

“Hey, say it back,” you nudge him. 

“I love you though,” he says after a beat of silence.

You’re now the one who looks at him, unable to say a word. 

“Are you that surprised?” He looks back at you nervously, nibbling his lip ring. “I mean, I think it’s quite obvious, just like everything I feel about you is.”

“Kook, I…” you try, but you don’t exactly know how to respond. 

You don’t doubt his feelings but somehow you can’t help but think that maybe right now, he loves the idea of you and not you, and there’s a difference.

“I think I always have but I guess I didn’t realize just how much until this whole thing happened,” he continues, wanting you to understand what he feels. “I asked Jimin why it was affecting me so much and he said it’s because I put you on a pedestal. You were this dream I’ve had for so long that I admired from a distance and now I get to be with you and you’re… human, not some flawless being who doesn’t make mistakes. So when you hurt me, I faltered. That’s on me, too. Because I… I expected too much. And I’m sorry.”

His focus is on his hands that are playing with yours before he turns to you again.

“I realized that I wanted so badly for you to want me, that’s why it hurt. I wanted to be that person you cared for and trusted and needed because you’re all that for me. And when I saw you at my door last night, nothing else mattered but you,” he continues. 

“Whatever misunderstanding or mistake or disagreement, I learned to accept them and I just wanted you, in my arms, so I could show you that you’re all I need. I’ve dreamt of you for so long and this version of you is more than I could’ve imagined. And I just… I love you, okay? It doesn’t matter how you feel. I just need you to know that I do, and I don’t think I’ll stop.”

Your heart is about to burst, and all you could do is cup his face in your hands and kiss him, hard and deep until you run out of air. You kiss him eagerly because you’re desperate for his touch. You kiss him passionately because there are things you feel that you can’t put into words yet, and this is how you tell him. 

He’s quick to follow your pace, wrapping his arms around your waist as he helps you sit on his lap. Your fingers comb through his hair and grip his top and pull him closer, all while you grind against him and moan in his mouth. 

But when he tucks a strand of hair behind your ear and caresses your cheek, you go tender. 

“I love you so much,” he whispers against your lips, and all you feel is the warmth of his touch and how it’s all the comfort and security and stability that you need.

You slowly pull away and graze your nose against his. You don’t say anything else and he doesn’t expect you to. But you kiss his cheek and hug him, and you hear him sigh in relief.

He pulls away and cheekily smiles. 

“You know, there’s a song for this.”

“A—what?” You laugh.

“A song.”

He pulls away from you then stands from the bed. “Let me get it from Jimin’s room.”

You stare at him questioningly because you really didn’t think he could surprise you even more. He returns with one of his burned CDs and you ask him if he has a sex playlist or something. 

“I used to daydream about you to this,” he says, as he puts it in the CD player that your parents got you for your 17th birthday. “I listened to it after that very kiss we had and, well, we’re back home rehashing so many memories and I kinda just want to fulfill another fantasy of mine.”

He plays the song and the first notes get you all giddy and excited and nostalgic and very much turned on. 

“This was my favorite song,” you say, as you signal him to come closer.

“I know. You played it all the time, I could hear it from the other room.”

You giggle, and it’s a sound he wants to listen to forever. 

“So, what’s this fantasy of yours?” You ask, as you take your shirt off.

He licks his lips at the breathtaking sight of you, but he softens at the fairy tattoo on your shoulder, the one he customized and that you love showing off.

“Just… make love to you while this plays in the background,” he manages to say. 

Your face softens, too, and it’s a sight he also wants to see everyday of his life.

“I’m all yours, Kook. Do whatever you please.”

It’s a week later when you tell him. 

You’d just gotten back from that short trip to a resort that had you relaxed and stuffed with food. You video called with your parents during their sunset cruise and your father once again teased about not being grandparents yet and just like the first time, you brushed it off. 

You’re lying on Jungkook’s chest as you laugh about Jimin’s terrible bowling skills. And in the silence, he asks, “does it bother you that your parents expect you to have kids?”

You knew he’d picked up on it the first time, but it’s just now that he’s bringing it up.

“A little. I try not to think about it though,” you sigh. “It’s another one of those expectations, you know? But I guess it’s a harder thing to talk to them about, that I don’t know if I want kids.”

He just hums and combs your hair with his fingers.

“Does it bother you?” You ask, suddenly feeling nervous. You know enough this is a make-or-break for many people. 

“Not really,” he says. “It’s not easy to raise a child, much less carry one, and that’s something I can’t do for you. But I guess, it doesn’t matter. We can have kids. Or not. We can have a dog or a pet tortoise or a fish, really. When I think of a future, all I see is you. The rest is just a bonus.”

He speaks of your future with such certainty. He’s always talked about enjoying the moments but the one version of a future he wants is the one where you’re with him. 

“I just want you to know that whatever you’re worried about, share it with me. I don’t want you to worry about me. We do this together. We figure it out together,” he adds. 

And just like that, the fears and pressure you feel slowly dissipate. He’s the only version of the future you want. Everything else is just a bonus. 

You turn to him with a kiss on his cheek. 

“I love you, Kook. I don’t want anyone else to love me, and I don’t want to love anybody else,” you whisper like a plea, just like a promise. 

“I’m not loving anybody else,” he kisses you. 

And it’s his own promise he makes.

Permanent Taglist:

@sherlynxx @di0rgguk @thequeen-kat @fan-ati--c @cravingforhotchocolate @adoraminie @weasleyswizarding-wheezes @gukssunshine @kookxin @petuliii @yoursthv @libra04 @fancycollectormoon @twixxxpie @ignoretheskies @ohmydarlin-g @bids97 @minyoongiboongi @main-bangtansmauyeondan @investedreader @petalsofink @stopeatread @craftymoonchaos @alpacaparkaseok @coletaehyung @boyfriendtaekook @moonchild1 @keshiadeija @nesha227 @src-9 @almatiarau @roseda

[itsnesss]

Request where fem!reader was a winner of the games and helps Jun-ho’s search in season two. He’s very respectful/cautious with her because of her trauma. After a certain point they both like each other but he’s still trying to be professional (?)/and a gentleman until the reader gets so fed up and is just like bro?? Kiss me 🤨 I’ll even throw in a snickers bar if there’s smut

𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐩 𝐭𝐨𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐝𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮 | hwang jun-ho × fem!reader

summary | the request

warnings | post trauma themes, smut, explicit content, fingering (reader!receives), oral sex (jun-ho!receives), p in v, unprotected sex

word count | 3.8 k

author's note | it would help me a lot if you liked, commented and reposted so that more people read what I write and don't forget to follow me, thanks ᡣ𐭩

The sea breeze blows gently as you walk alongside Jun-ho. The tension between you is palpable, though the silence remains. The ocean seems endless, just like the memories you carry since you survived the Games. Here, in this unfamiliar place, the answers you seek feel increasingly distant. But you can’t stop. You won’t.

"Are you ready?" Jun-ho’s voice is deep, almost as if he’s hoping you’ll say no.

You glance at him sideways. Always so serious, so controlled. If there’s one thing you’ve learned since surviving the Games, it’s that you can’t fully trust anyone—not yet. But Jun-ho, he’s different. His respect for you is clear, and though his professional demeanor keeps him distant, you know that, somehow, he cares.

"Yes," you reply firmly, though deep down, an unease grows. It’s not just the island that frightens you, but everything that might have been left behind. Everything you’ll never know.

Jun-ho approaches but keeps his distance, as he always does. He’s not one to touch you or show affection, and though you appreciate it, something inside you yearns for him to break that barrier. To see you as more than just a survivor, as someone with feelings.

The boat ride feels long, but the worst is yet to come. The island remains out of reach, a shadow on the horizon that seems to shift with the wind. Each time you look at it, anxiety grows within you.

Once on solid ground, you head into the island’s interior. The dense vegetation and towering trees seem to swallow every step you take. The air is heavy, and every sound, every crack, feels threatening. The tension rises as you navigate the terrain, but there’s no sign of what you’re looking for.

Time passes, and though you don’t want to admit it, discouragement begins to seep into your bones. Jun-ho says nothing. He knows you won’t find anything here—he knows it as well as you do. But he keeps searching, as if his footsteps could force the island to reveal its darkest secret.

You stop, staring at the horizon. The island is empty. The memory of what happened here drowns in the stillness of the landscape, but that doesn’t change how you feel: a sense of emptiness, of something missing, something you’ll never complete.

Jun-ho stops beside you, his breathing steady, though his posture is tense. He doesn’t look at you directly, as if waiting for a signal that it’s over, that you can both leave.

"We tried," he says finally, his voice calm yet slightly broken. As if he already knew but needed you to accept it. "But it’s not here."

Silence settles between you. Frustration consumes you, but there’s something else, something you can’t name. The way his voice falters, how he shows vulnerability in front of you, is something you’ve never seen before.

"And now what?" you ask, your tone laced with frustration. "Is that it? We just leave and forget what happened?"

Jun-ho takes a moment before answering, looking into the distance as if hoping the scenery might inspire some kind of answer.

"No, this isn’t everything. But maybe the answers aren’t here," he says, and at the end of his words, his tone changes—something more personal. He steps closer to you, and though he doesn’t touch you, you feel the space between you shrink.

His presence feels more tangible, and for a moment, forgetting everything else, you wonder if you can truly trust him. Not just as an ally, but as someone who might understand you beyond the Games, beyond survival.

"What will you do now?" you ask, this time your voice tinged with uncertainty, with an emotion you don’t know how to handle.

Jun-ho watches you closely. The way he does, as if measuring every word, unsettles you. You can’t read what’s going on in his head, but there’s something in his eyes that seems to say more than his voice could. As if he’s inviting you to step closer, to seek something between you both that neither of you has dared to name.

The tension between you is undeniable. The silence, though heavy, is a witness to the unspoken emotions. For a moment, the distance between you feels like an abyss, but in his gaze, there’s something inviting you to bridge it.

You don’t know what to do. Confusion, exhaustion, and anxiety swirl within you, and the desire for him to make a decision consumes you. But Jun-ho doesn’t take the step, doesn’t touch you, doesn’t say anything more.

Finally, frustration takes over. You’ve stayed strong for so long, but this… this is breaking you. You need something more, something to make you feel whole again. And for some reason, you seek it in him, in someone you’ve come to respect deeply.

Without thinking, you lean in and kiss him. A quick, impulsive kiss, but filled with everything you’ve kept inside: the pain, the fear, the need for something more. You don’t know why you do it, but in that instant, everything seems to overflow.

Jun-ho freezes at first, surprised by your action, but he quickly responds. His hands settle on your waist, and the contact, though unexpected, sparks something between you both. The tension that had built for so long finally erupts in a single gesture.

When you pull away, both of you are breathing heavily. His expression is hard to read, but he doesn’t look upset—not at all. There’s a mix of astonishment and something else, something that makes you wonder if this tension has been there all along.

"Why didn’t we say anything before?" you ask, your voice barely a whisper.

Jun-ho doesn’t answer immediately. He takes a moment, as if carefully choosing his words. Finally, he leans closer, his face so near to yours that you can feel his breath.

"Because I don’t want you to regret it," he replies softly.

...

The boat ride back is marked by a heavy silence, but not for lack of words. Everything has changed since you kissed him on the island. Jun-ho sits across from you, but his gaze doesn’t meet yours. You can see how his hands rest on his knees, tense, as if he’s making a monumental effort to keep his composure.

You’re not any better. The closeness in that moment, the way his lips responded to yours, still burns in your mind. Your skin seems to remember every place where he touched you, his warmth, the way his body leaned into yours. And now, the tension you’d both ignored for days feels like it’s finally spilled over.

Eventually, the rocking of the waves forces you to steady yourself. You lean on the ship’s railing, and when you do, you feel his hand brush against yours. It’s an accidental touch, you know, but it sends a shiver down your spine. You look at him, and his eyes are fixed on you.

No words are needed. You lean toward him, and this time there’s no hesitation. Jun-ho pulls you into his arms and kisses you with an intensity you never imagined. His lips are firm, desperate, as if he’s held back all that desire for days, weeks, maybe months.

The sound of the sea and the sway of the boat fade away. There’s only him, his body close to yours, his hands finding their way to your waist. You can’t stop him, and you don’t want to. Every time you try to pull back to breathe, his lips find yours again, hungry, eager, as if you both know this moment can’t be enough.

"This isn’t professional," he murmurs against your mouth, though he makes no effort to pull away.

"Then stop doing it," you reply, your fingers tangling in his hair, forcing him to continue.

He laughs against your lips, a low, rough sound, before surrendering completely. What started as a kiss ends in desperate caresses, his hands exploring your body with a mix of tenderness and restrained passion. Every touch ignites a fire inside you that you didn’t know existed.

Finally, you both separate as the boat reaches the dock. The return to reality is abrupt, but the heat between you doesn’t dissipate. You walk to your house in silence, though your fingers graze his as you move forward, as if neither of you can bear the idea of being too far apart.

When you finally open your front door, the initial awkwardness returns. Jun-ho seems hesitant, as if debating whether to stay or not.

"Do you want to come in?" you ask, though the answer is evident in his eyes.

"Only if you’re sure," he replies, his tone low but full of emotion.

You don’t give him time to think. You take his hand and guide him inside, closing the door behind you.

The atmosphere changes immediately. The intimacy of your home seems to amplify what’s already happening between you. You barely have time to turn toward him before Jun-ho takes your waist and gently presses you against the wall. His lips find yours again, this time with more urgency, as if everything he held back during the journey is spilling out.

His hands explore your body with a perfect mix of softness and determination. You feel alive under his touch, every caress sending waves of heat through your skin. Your hands also explore, sliding over his chest, his shoulders, feeling the tense muscles beneath his clothes.

Her breath quickens, her eyes shining with contained desire.

The moment he moves away from you a little, you can see the effort he makes to control himself.

"I promise you won't want this to end," he whispers, as if waiting for your response.

You don't wait. Your mouth finds his again, and this time the kiss transforms into something hungrier, more intense. His lips part just enough to allow his hand to remove your blouse, his gaze resting on your bare breasts with a mix of admiration and lust.

The feeling of being naked in front of him is exciting, and although a part of you feels the temptation to cover yourself, the look in his eyes stops you. You had never seen him like this, as someone who surrenders to passion. He is so different from what you expected, and yet, he is as real as the man who accompanies him.

A second later, Jun-ho kneels and begins to kiss your chest gently, as if it were your first encounter. Your breath quickens as his lips travel across your skin, kissing and caressing your breasts. His fingers glide over your shoulders to the waistband of your pants, unbuttoning them with a skill that makes you feel like a novice.

You don't protest. You don't want him to stop, although you don't want him to undress you completely just yet. There is still something you hope will happen, something you feel you can't lose.

A moment later, your pants are on the floor and his hands are sliding up your thighs, reaching the edge of your panties. You look him in the eyes, seeing how his pupils dilate as his fingers slide under the cotton.

Her touch is light, but it makes you shiver, as if you had never been touched like this before. Her fingers continue exploring, finding your clitoris with a gentle yet determined touch. The sensation is so good that you can't hold back a moan.

"Do you like it?" he asks in a low voice, although his gaze shines with the answer.

You nod your head, although your response seems insufficient for him. His fingers begin to caress your lips with a skill you didn't expect. His rhythm is fast at first, then it slows down, as if he were waiting for you to get used to his touch.

The pleasure is overwhelming. His fingers seem to know exactly what you need to feel to surrender. The rhythm picks up again, and you can feel something inside you approaching the edge.

"Jun-ho" you moan, your hips starting to move in search of more.

He smiles against your mouth, his fingers increasing their pace once more. The feeling that you're going to explode is getting stronger, but you can't stop. You don't want to stop.

Finally, a wave of pleasure consumes you, making you moan his name. His fingers don't stop until you feel exhausted, your breath ragged, your body trembling.

But the pleasure doesn't end there. Jun-ho continues caressing you while kissing you softly on the mouth, on the neck, on your shoulders. His fingers reach your clitoris again, this time faster, more determined.

"God!" you moan when the pleasure returns, as if you hadn't been on the verge of exploding just minutes before.

Jun-ho smiles again, but his eyes shine with a lustful desire. His fingers continue to caress you mercilessly, as if he expects to push you to the limit once more.

"How many times can you?" he asks, his breath quickening, his lips on your neck.

You can't respond. Your body trembles with pleasure, but somehow, you feel you can go on longer. Jun-ho smiles once more, and a second later, his fingers caress your clitoris again, this time with demonic skill.

You moan his name when the sensation of orgasm returns, although this time it is stronger. The pleasure is overwhelming, so intense that you might feel yourself collapse into his arms.

Finally, his fingers stop and you take a moment to catch your breath. But the tension remains, palpable between the two of you.

"How do you feel?" Jun-ho whispers softly, his breath on your neck.

Your fingers tangle in her hair, and you catch her to kiss her mouth. Her response is instantaneous, her tongue finding yours as she presses you against her body.

"I don't feel complete" you reply softly, looking directly at him. "Not yet".

Jun-ho nods, and a second later his mouth meets yours once again. His fingers touch you everywhere, roaming your body with desire. Finally, you feel his fingers searching for the zipper of his pants, and an emotion consumes you as you realize what is about to happen.

When his fingers reach the zipper, a second of indecision floods you. You haven't seen him like this, naked and vulnerable in front of you. How will he feel?

You don't have time to ask yourself anything else. His fingers release his erection, and surprise floods you as you see how big it is. You didn't know what to expect, but this is much more than you imagined.

His fingers caress her, as if she were offering herself to you.

"Do you want to taste" he whispers in a low voice, and something in his tone makes you understand that he doesn't have much experience with this.

You nod your head. It's your opportunity to touch, to feel, to do something more than just feel.

You bend down and touch his erection. It's hard, but soft at the same time. Your fingers caress her skin, feeling it pulse beneath your touch.

"Do you want me to do it?" you ask in a low voice, your gaze meeting theirs.

Jun-ho nods, his eyes shining with desire. The way he looks at you makes you feel strong, as if nothing can stop you.

You move a little closer and gently kiss the tip of his erection. The sensation is strange but pleasant. His fingers rest on your shoulders as he watches you, as if he can't believe what's happening.

Even though you are not a virgin, Jun-ho's size is intimidating, but you don't stop. You take his erection into your mouth and gently touch it with the tip of your tongue.

Jun-ho moans when he feels your touch. His gaze pierces you, his breath ragged. His fingers search for your hair and cradle you as you kiss his erection with more passion.

Finally, his erection begins to enter your mouth. The sensation is overwhelming, but you don't stop, feeling every inch that enters you. Jun-ho moans again when you feel his testicles against your lips.

Her breathing becomes erratic, her fingers tightening in your hair.

"No, I can't take it anymore!" he screams, gently pulling you out of her body.

You look at him in surprise, but his fingers pull you closer and he kisses you desperately. The need between the two of you is palpable.

"Are you sure?" he asks a moment later, his breath still ragged.

"Yes" you respond in a low voice. "Yes, I want to do it".

Jun-ho nods a moment later, and his fingers take you by the waist. A second later, you find yourself in your bed, with him between your legs.

"Do you mind if this is quick?" he asks, his fingers brushing your inner lips gently.

"No" you respond quickly. You can't wait any longer.

You feel him brushing against your entrance with his member. His fingers continue to caress your clitoris as he slowly enters you. The sensation is incredible, his erection so big that you can feel it throbbing in your body.

The penetration is slow and painful, but it is also exciting. Finally, his erection enters you completely, and Jun-ho pauses for a moment to let you get used to his size.

"You're so tight" he whispers very softly, his lips brushing against yours.

"So perfect".

"Don't stop" you moan.

Jun-ho laughs for a second before he starts to move, his rhythm initially slow but then quick and desperate. The sound of their bodies joining is audible in the room, sweat covering their bodies as they move with desperation.

The feeling is overwhelming. You didn't expect something like this, something so intense, but here it is. Everything comes down to this moment, to his body inside yours.

Pleasure takes hold of you once again. His fingers caress your clitoris once more as he moves inside you, and you can feel something within you starting to grow.

Finally, a third orgasm consumes you. You moan his name as his body tightens around you, the sensation that he also reaches climax.

"God... " shouts Jun-ho, his breath very agitated as he collapses onto you.

Your arms wrap around his body, feeling his fingers gently touch your back. You can't stop looking at him, the expression of pleasure on his face is incredible. You didn't expect it to be like this.

[scarletttries]

Sanji Fluff Alphabet (One Piece)

Pairing: Sanji (One Piece) x Reader

Rating: Pure Fluff

Word Count: 5.6k!

Author's Note: Thanks for all the love on my Sanji Smut alphabet, and for the requests for a Fluff alphabet for our blonde haired lover boy - here you are! I've also got Zoro's fluff alphabet on my list so keep an eye out for more one piece content 💋😘

a -affection (how affectionate are they? how do they show affection?)

If you went to affectionate island, everyone there would know Sanji. After all his years of pining, he finally has someone he can actually act on those desires with, and he's not going to hold back for one more second than he has to. Affection pours out of Sanji like an unlimited resource, his almost sole focus is making sure you feel as loved as you are.

He'll let his words set the scene, with an array of thoughtful compliments and romantic pet names. His actions take centre stage with the way he prepares all your meals with a little bit more care than anyone else's or he offers you his coat whenever an evening breeze sets in on the deck. And his touch is just the cherry on top of his love, his delicate hands tracing their way over your skin every time you're in reach. He'll hold your hand, or put an arm around your waist, and if you get a precious moment alone you best believe he's going to steal a kiss or twenty.

b - beauty (what do they admire about their s/o? what do you think is beautiful about them?)

There's nothing about you that doesn't send Sanji mad with adoration. Your body, your face, your voice, your mind, your heart. Whenever Sanji starts thinking through all the things he loves about you, the list gets almost dizzying. He's rarely not staring your way and wishing you two had nothing else to do except gaze into each other's eyes, his worship of you never ceasing.

There are a lot of beautiful things to appreciate about Sanji, from his sense of style to his old-fashioned chivalry. Some of your favourite things to flatter him about are his superb culinary skills, which he takes such pride in showing off for you, and his soft blonde hair with how he melts into your arms every time you reach up to brush a stray hair out of his face to better appreciate his lovestruck expression.

c- cuddles (do they like to cuddle? how would they cuddle?)

There's almost nothing Sanji loves more than cuddling with you. When he finally feels able to put his hands on you, he's constantly pulling you close for a hug, the tangible clutch of your form to his chest is one of the few things that lets him accept that you're real. Sometimes he worries if he ever lets you out of his grasp for too long, you'll never return to it, so he makes a point to wrap his arms around you as often as your lives allow, taking the opportunity to snake a hand around your waist whenever you walk or sit beside him.

At bedtime he's even more clingy, long legs wrapping around your waist from behind and his arms encompass you. Often Sanji will have bad dreams of feeling the currents drag him down into the depth of the ocean, but somehow keeping hold of you seems to keep him afloat, your warmth and acceptance providing safe harbour even when you're fast asleep.

d - dates (what are dates with them like? do they plan them out or are they spontaneous?)

Sanji has been dreaming of having that special someone in his life for a long time, so his head is already full of planned out dates he can't wait to whisk you away to. He likes to plan ahead, and of course pack a picnic for the two of you as feeding you well is probably the most important part to him.

It'll will depend on the island you're on and its scenery, but Sanji likes to go for long scenic walks with your fingers interlaced through his, or through bustling marketplaces to find some little memento with which to decorate your shared cabin, his arm wrapped tightly around your waist as he weaves through the crowd. And he'll always find some secluded, romantic spot to lay out a blanket for the two of you, holding a chocolate covered strawberry out towards you and almost passing out with excitement when your lips brush over his fingertips as you take a bite.

e - ending (if they had to break up with their partner, how would they do it?)

Oh it would break Sanji's heart to have to break up with someone, but deep down he would know when someone wasn't quite right for him and his life on the high seas. He'd be kind but direct, making sure to emphasise how wonderful that person is outside of their relationship. Luckily he'd never do that to you, knowing immediately that you are his happy ending!

f - fiancee (how do they feel about commitment? how quick would they want to get married?)

Oh my gosh, once Sanji really starts to believe that you actually truly love him, you can bet he's dreaming of your wedding every night. He knows you're his person, he knows he never needs or wants to be with anyone else, he's ready to commit his whole self to you from the moment you agree to be his. If you don't want to get married, he would accept that, but if you're willing to exchange those rings it would mean the absolute world to him. He's spent a long time believing he wasn't worthy of this kind of love, so standing up amongst your friends, the crew, and letting your captain declare your love and devotion for everyone across all the oceans to hear, well that's the kind of thing that keeps Sanji smiling in even his darkest moments. He'll become obsessed with playing with his ring when he finally gets it, and when he's in the kitchen he keeps it on a chain close to his heart so he can never lose it, or you.

g - gentle (how gentle are they, both physically and emotionally?)

Everything about Sanji is gentle - his hands are soft and delicate from always avoiding using them to fight and his words are sweet and adoring whether he's complimenting you or just calling your name because dinner is ready. Emotionally he's even softer still, his sole thought in each passing second of how he can best take care of you. He wants to be a good partner more than anything, and for you to feel as happy and safe in his company as he has grown to feel in yours. He'll never raise his voice around you, or touch you with anything but precision and grace. You are Sanji's greatest treasure, and he will always treat you accordingly. And when you are equally as kind and as gentle to him? The man's in heaven. He adores every soft caress of his cheek, or light brush of your fingers through his hair. He eats up every sweet word you cast his way, and practically glows with every ounce of praise you give him. And more than anything he deeply, unmistakably LOVES the way you protect his heart, and shower him with nothing but kindness. He's never known anything quite like it, and he knows he'll never meet anyone like you again.

h - hugs (do they like hugs? how often do they do if? what are their hugs like?)

Sanji loves hugs! There's isn't a morning he doesn't cling to you for as long as possible before he has to drag himself to the kitchen, and when you finally arise and join him, his arms will cling to you once again, delaying everyone's breakfast for just a few precious minutes of your embrace. Sanji doesn't care if there's people around, he'll always find the spot next to you and loop his arms around you, clinging to you from behind or spinning you around so he can pull you snugly against his chest like you've been apart for months and not mere moments. His hugs are careful and warm, gentle despite his desperation to feel you close, and he always smells like a delicious mix of freshly baked bread with a slight edge of tobacco. His favourite hugs are the ones you pull him into right before bed, as you curl up together and share your every thought from the day. You face each other so close you really only need one pillow, arms encompassing each other so that as you drift off to sleep, you can never drift apart.

i - injury (how would they act if they got hurt?)

When Sanji gets hurt he's very chivalrous about it, claiming it barely bothered him and that the scoundrel that laid a hand on him is in much worse condition. Get him alone and offer to kiss him better, and suddenly he's in far more pain than he realised, and he simply must let you fuss over him for the rest of the day, new scuffs and bruises appearing in his mind that he'll ask for your magic kiss against with big pleading eyes.

When you get hurt Sanji's an absolute drama queen. He's running around frantically looking for revenge, even if you've just got a cold. He's making gallons of soup that the rest of the crew isn't allowed to touch, because it's special and made only for you. He's threatening Luffy and Usopp with physical harm if they so much as make a noise while you're trying to rest. He's a menace to everyone, but it comes from a place of worry and caring, and luckily you can distract him pretty easily if you say you're cold and need him to lie next to you for warmth.

j - jealousy (how jealous do they get? what do they do when they're jealous?)

Sanji wouldn't ever admit it to himself, but there's a deep well of insecurity that runs through him which tends to boil over whenever someone else is clearly taken with you. He tries not to be too obvious as he stares forlornly across the room, knowing deep down that you were always too good for him, and it makes sense that you would one day realise that when a better man came your way. That being said, he's not just going to lie down and let any rapscallion of the sea steal you away, so he'll force himself to strut over to you, and launch into an aggressive interrogation of the man standing in front of you. What does he have to offer? What makes him think he's good enough to ask for your company?

When this happens, it's best just to take Sanji's hand in yours and introduce him as your boyfriend, every ounce of anger melting away as he hears the loving term dripping from your lips. Suddenly he forgets why he even came barging over, and all he can think to do is tell you how beautiful you are, and ask if he can do anything for you.

k- kisses (what are their kisses like? where do they like to be kissed?)

Oh Sanji. He's spent so long dreaming of the feeling of your lips pressed against his, that the first time it happens he genuinely thinks he might just pass away there and then. It's everything he's dreamed of and more; the sweet taste of you flooding his senses, the soft curve of your lips against his, the quiet hum his touch elicits from you. It's almost too much pleasure for the poor sensitive chef to take. But that's not going to stop him chasing that high every chance he gets.

He loves nothing more than having you perched on the kitchen counter next to him as he works, the chef taking every opportunity to dash between your knees and steal a kiss that turns into another and another, until your hands are in his hair and he's lost all track of time as he hungrily brushes his tongue against yours again. It doesn't matter if Luffy is stood behind him begging to be fed, the chef only has eyes for you.

In a moment of privacy you can render the chef completely powerless with a few well placed kisses. Start with his forehead, the feeling of love that spreads over him turning his world upside. Then move down to his lips, his favourite place to feel you, the most wonderful taste that the all blue has ever known. Brush his hair back and kiss along his jaw, trailing glistening wet marks down his neck and all the chef can do is sigh out sweet praise, his words mixed in with gentle whimpers as you reach lower down his chest. And if your lips stray low enough to dip below his waistline, then he ceases to be able to speak at all, save for the sighing of your name like a prayer.

l - love language (what is their love language?)

Sanji loves to show his love through acts of service, the most obvious one being his cooking. He loves to not only make sure you are well fed and kept as healthy as possible at sea, but that everything you eat is delicious and perfect for you, knowing that this is something he can be confident that he's doing something right for you.

In terms of receiving love there's almost nothing you could do that wouldn't mean the world to Sanji. Echo some kind words his way each day, and he will take them directly to heart. Decorate his face with soft kisses just before he falls asleep and you know he'll have the sweetest dreams of you. But the biggest one is just spending time with him - choose to stick by his side, and make an effort to be where he is, and you'll have Sanji feeling a thousand feet tall, years of being cast aside slowly giving way to the feeling that he does in fact deserve to be loved, especially if it's by you.

m - mornings (how are mornings spent with them?)

Sanji often has to get up first amongst the crew, so you'll miss his morning routine of whispering sweet good mornings and running through his favourite things about you. He's careful not to wake you as he sets a gentle kiss on any exposed bit of skin, before finally dragging himself away from you, motivated solely by the knowledge he'll get to see you eat whatever he's about to make. On the mornings when he doesn't need to get up so soon, he'll cherish every moment of being tangled up with you, watching carefully for the moment your eyes blink open for the first time and feeling endless warmth at the way you smile when he's the first thing you see. He'll pounce on you in a second, kisses and compliments spilling from his lips as he climbs on top of you to keep you from trying to get out of bed before he's taken his time to appreciate you.

n - nights (how are nights spent with them?)

Nights are the best time to get Sanji to yourself, and he likes to make the most of every second. From the moment the rest of the crew are sat down for dinner, he'll slink into the seat beside you, pressed so close that his thigh rubs against yours and you can rest your head on his shoulder. If the rest of the crew are out of the kitchen he'll even pull you onto his lap while you both enjoy his cooking, catching up on anything you've missed while you've been apart. When you're both finished, he'll take your hand in his and lead you for a stroll around the ship until finally the two of you find yourself back in your cabin. It doesn't take long for Sanji to descend into needy clutching at you as you find yourself in his lap again, the night passing in perfect company as the two of you find yourselves becoming somehow even closer.

o - open (when would they start revealing things about themselves? do they say everything all at once or wait a while to reveal things slowly?)

Sanji would claim to be an open book with you, but he's very hesitant to share any of the parts of himself he considers negative or difficult. He thinks it's too much to burden you with the dark parts of his past, like you are his clean slate and a fresh start for the chef, one that he doesn't want to marr with any unpleasantness. It's only when he starts to share tiny details of his unpleasant childhood, or hears from you on your saddest days, that he realises that being loved requires giving all of yourself away. And so gradually he will reveal each little detail of his life, watching as what he once considered a blank slate gradually transforms into a vibrant vision of a future you two can share, only made possible by letting down his walls and opening himself up to you.

p - patience (how patient are they usually? what tends to wear their patience thin?)

Sanji has all the patience in the world when it comes to you. He'll watch you try on a million different outfits, will wait as long as you need to decide what he should cook for you today and will happily keep something warm for you if you're running late. He can get a little impatient with the rest of the crew, but he only gets impatient with you when it's someone else holding you up. Like if you're helping Zoro train and Sanji has spent all morning missing you, he'll get a little bit grumpy at the situation, but only because he can't stand the thought of someone else dragging you away from him.

q - quality time (how do they like to spend with you?)

Sanji will be happy to spend time with you wherever suits the both of you. The quality time of being wrapped up in bed together in the quiet of the night. Or on a gentle stroll around some new island you've docked on for the day. Or passing the time together on the deck of your ship, just basking in the sun with your bodies draped over a single shared deck chair. And of course, when you keep him company as he passes an afternoon in the kitchen he absolutely cherishes every second, his heart set alight everytime you taste something he's prepared and hum happily in approval. If there's something you love doing as much as he loves cooking, then Sanji will be incredibly invested and want to spend as much time with you, learning about your interest, as is humanly possible.

r - remember (what is their favourite moment in your relationship?)

There's not a moment you've spent in Sanji's company that he doesn't cherish, but nothing will ever beat the day you first let him know how you felt.

It had come after months of his endless flirting and praise, the fact that he worshipped the ground you walked on was clear to everyone on crew, yourself included. But it was hard to tell how much of his posturing was just his romantic heart, and how much was genuine feeling for you, so you let your own unspoken feelings simmer in the tension between you both, waiting for him to finally address it. Unfortunately, not everyone in your crew was willing to let this sycophantic show of affections play out indefinitely.

It was dinner with the straw hats as normal when it all came to a head. Sanji settled into the seat beside you to eat, watching your every move as you praised the meal he prepared, and giggling euphorically that you were enjoying it.

"Hey chef, why don't you just ask them out and save the rest of us having to watch this sickly crap?" Zoro grunted out through mouthfuls of food, barely glancing up at the two of you as he spoke. You let a small laugh at the snide comment, turning to Sanji, expecting to see him blush and squirm and laugh it off. Instead the colour slowly drained from his face, his mouth hanging open as his eyes started to glisten. He choked on a word or two before finally he spluttered out an 'excuse me' and dashed out onto the deck without a second glance.

You shot Zoro a dirty look as you rose to your feet, worried about Sanji's reaction and wondering why such an obvious question would make him this upset. Stepping out onto the deck you could smell the familiar scent of smoke as the night air washed over you. The faint glow of his cigarette led you to Sanji, who had hidden himself around the back of a cabin. His knees were tucked up against his chest with arms wrapped around then, holding himself tightly as he shuddered out quiet sobs. He only glanced up at you for a second as you approached, his eyes glistening from under golden locks of hair, which you took as permission to settle right beside him. You let one leg rest against his as you slowly ran your hand over the length of his arm, until you reached his wrist and instinctively he offered his hand for you to hold. Letting your fingers lace through his you sighed out softly,

"Help me understand why you're so upset." You let him ponder the words until he was ready, slowly lifting his head to look up at the sky and running his fingers through his hair as he exhaled a small cloud of smoke.

"I know this isn't going to happen. I'm not delusional. But that doesn't mean it hurts any less when mosshead taunts me about it. About you." He couldn't quite bring himself to look at you as he spoke, so sure it would only make his situation more pathetic if you could see his wide eyed gaze begging you for words he knew would never come.

"Sanji..." You could feel your brow furrow as you squeezed his hand, willing him to look you in the eye and make you understand, when nothing he said made sense. Finally he relented and looked at you, the tip of your nose practically touching his as he searched your expression for the contempt he was so certain he'd find. Instead all he found was worry, your care for him so obvious in your every action that it only made being this close to you every more painful. He took another deep inhale of his cigarette as he willed himself to finally ask the question that could put him out of his hope-filled misery.

"Be honest. Would you ever actually consider being with me?"

"Consider it?!" The words came out of you with such force that Sanji could feel his stomach drop, the confirmation of his worst fears finally spelled out - it was ridiculous to think you'd ever feel the same way about him, and now he had ruined whatever bond you did have with his silly fantasy. He wanted to sink into the darkness of the waters around him and never raise his head again, rather than know the pain ripping his heart in two for a moment longer.

"Consider it? Sanji, I'd cherish it!" He's not sure he had ever moved so quickly, his whole body turning to face you until he was practically on top of you, eyes wide and searching for the same understanding you had followed him onto the deck in search of. "It'd be an honour to be with you. I think you're wonderful." It was hard to get the words out with a straightface with the teary eyed man staring at you with nothing short of awe, his whole body vibrating as if the information was simply too much to process. You decided you might as well go one step further while you had a rare moment of privacy, letting one hand rest against his cheek as you leant forward and set a single soft kiss against his flabbergasted lips. The rest of his face stayed completely in shock as he lips moved to meet yours, the slight second of contact enough to finish him off entirely, the chef collapsing to the floor, one hand clutching his heart as the other clung desperately to you.

"Please don't leave me my love." He choked out through tears, feeling you lay on the deck beside him, hand still clasped in his. Sanji only had room in his head for two thoughts that night: 1. You wanted to be with him. And perhaps even more shockingly 2. He believed you.

s - security (how protective are they? how would they protect you? how would they like to be protected?)

You are Sanji's greatest treasure and by the far the best thing that has ever happened to him. So no matter how competent you are in battle, or out on the high seas, he is going to be extremely protective of you. In fights he'll always try and rush ahead and kick anyone who dares come near you so hard they regret even considering it. On the ship he'll make sure you aren't working too hard, and try to give you a hand with your duties. And when you venture into new island territories he'll make sure he's wearing a jacket you can borrow if the weather turns, and that he's carrying a lunch to keep the two of you well fed as you adventure together.

When it comes to protecting Sanji, you don't need to worry about him in battles or out in the wilds. The best protection you can offer him is looking after his heart, and offering him kindness and reassurance whenever you could see him start to get a little bit down on himself. That and making sure he's taking the time to rest when he needs to. He'll give his everything to being the ship's chef, but that means every so often you need to ask him really nicely to just stay in bed with you in the morning, rather than cooking breakfast, so that he gets the rest he needs. Luckily he can never say no to you.

t - try (how much effort would they put into dates, anniversaries, gifts, everyday tasks?)

Sanji wants you to feel like a princess and his number one priority at all times. In the everyday tasks he'll give being your partner everything he has, never letting you wonder how he feels about you, or letting you doubt his devotion for a moment. In terms of anniversaries, Sanji will find celebrating the time you've been in his life very meaningful, and will probably do what he does best and prepare a special meal for the occasion. And most of his gifts will also be the edible kind, preparing your favourite drinks and desserts, before reciting the thousands of things he loves about you as he slowly feeds you a forkful at a time, wondering how he ever got this lucky.

u - upset (how do they act when you're upset? how do they act when they're upset?)

When you're upset it truly breaks Sanji's heart. You are the most wonderful and perfect person in all of the oceans, and it's completely unfair that you should ever feel anything other than joy. He'll do his best to just be there for you, reassuring you and being a listening ear if something specific is on your mind, and if not just ensuring you're warm enough and well fed, knowing that in time the sun will shine on you again.

When Sanji's upset he tries to hide it from you. He doesn't want to bother you with his feelings, unless they're about you, so he'll brush it off if you ask him what's wrong. Instead you'll just have to stick close to his side, spending time with him even when he insists he's not going to be the best company, and slowly but surely showing him that you're there for him through the good times and the bad. When he's ready, he'll collapse into your arms for a hug and thank you for sticking around for him.

v - vanity (how concerned are they with their looks?)

Sanji likes to dress sharply and keep his hair neatly trimmed since he spends so much time in the kitchen. It doesn't hurt when you call him handsome and stroke your fingers through his hair, or pull him in for a kiss by the end of his tie. As long as you're proud to be on his arm, then Sanji's pretty happy with how he's looking.

w - wildcard (a random headcanon for them.)

Sanji has spent so long dreaming of the day that he can call you his, that once you two are together he will basically never use your name again. He'll take every opportunity to call you 'his love', 'his angel', gorgeous, beautiful, sweetheart, any other sweet name he can think of. He'll nickname you after his favourite desserts, a beautiful sunset, or a pretty flower you see on an island. He's just so smitten and happy to be your partner that he doesn't want to waste a single moment to shower you with affection and let the world know you two are together.

This does mean that he'll expect the same in return though, and if in an absentminded moment you call out his real name, he'll immediately get worried that he's done something wrong. That you're not his anymore. That you no longer hold him in the same affectionate love that he holds you in. You'll immediately know you've messed up by the despondent look in his eye, and you'll have to spend the next hour peppering his face with kisses and calling him every sickly name under the sun until he is once again reassured that his adoration isn't entirely one-sided.

x - x-ray (how easily are they able to read you?)

Sanji can be quite hard to read when it comes to negative emotions. When he's happy and in love, he's an open book, easily reeling off everything he is so grateful for and finds so special about you. But when he's feeling rundown, or he's had a bad day, I'm afraid you're going to need to nudge him a little bit. You'll see the sparkle missing from his eyes when he's cooking, and his pet names will be diluted down to a basic greeting, nothing like the monologues you're used to. Take matters into your own hands, dragging him down onto a sofa, placing his head in your lap and running your fingers through his blonde hair until finally he relents that maybe he needs to be taken care of a little bit, and he's very grateful that he has you watching out for him.

When you're having a tough time, Sanji is very in tune with you. A comforting tea will be brewed ready before you've even let out an exhausted sigh, or his hand will be hovering, ready for the taking as you realise that's exactly what you need. Sanji can pick up on almost everything, except the boy will be completely oblivious of your feelings for him whenever you first start trying to let him know. He's so in awe of you, and you're just so kind, he can't help but write off your little flirty advances and heartfelt compliments as just another echo of your kind heart. You will definitely have to be the one that made a first move.

y - yuck (what things do you do that they hate?)

Sanji doesn't necessarily hate anything that you do, but when he hears you talk badly about yourself, it does hurt his precious heart a little bit. How do you not see your own perfection? Has he not been obvious enough in his complete worship of you? If you cannot see the brilliance in someone as wondrous as yourself, you must think of him as the lowest of the low, a completely unworthy scoundrel? He'll do his best to put a stop to your negative self-talk, always seeking to replace that voice with something positive.

He also doesn't *love* when you throw yourself into danger, even though it's usually to protect your friends, or some poor innocent soul who is completely deserving of the action. Sanji is fiercely protective of you, and it's hard for him to accept that your lives mean sometimes you will end up in danger, but he'd just really rather you use him as a human shield a little more often.

z - zzz (what is a sleep habit of theirs?)

Sanji usually has to get up early to prepare breakfast for the crew, creeping out of bed like a stealthy cat burglar to avoid interrupting your 'beauty sleep' which he claims is working miracles. Because of these early starts, when you and Sanji curl up in bed together of a night he'll always make a big event of giving you a 'good night' kiss and cuddle, and then immediately launch into giving you a special 'good morning' kiss since he doesn't always get the chance to be there beside you as you wake up. It's his way of letting you know that even in his earliest waking moments, he is consumed with adoration for you, prying himself away from your sleeping form, the height of perfection, but only to complete his solemn duty to cook for you, combining his two truest loves.

[woneazy]

520 ：我爱你

sypnosis: 520 sounds like “我爱你” which means "I love you" in Chinese! As a result, lots of Chinese couples spend the 20th of May together. Heres how you and your boyfriends spend the day together and/or how they surprise you (⁠´⁠∩⁠｡⁠•⁠ ⁠ᵕ⁠ ⁠•⁠｡⁠∩⁠`⁠)

characters: kurona ranze, itoshi rin, itoshi sae, isagi yoichi, yukimiya kenyu, hiori yo, alexis ness

Kurona Ranze 🦈

♡ Kurona is Blue Lock's resident sharky sweetheart so I think it's best suited that you both go to an aquarium as a date - even if Great Whites shouldnt kept in them.

♡ He likes subtle affection so I imagine you both taking candid pictures of eachother enjoying the aquatic scenery.

♡ I also think before you left, if you have long hair, Kurona would braid it. He likes the idea of you both matching and sees it as a small sign of your love.

♡ After the date, you both go home and play with his hedgehog Pocari.

ITOSHI RIN 🙀

♡ After Rin's usualy gym routine, you find yourselves cozied on the couch with pillows and blankets. The curtains are drawn, the lights are off and theres a line up of horror movies queued up to binge, maybe a horror game or two if you guys get restless from the endless binge.

♡ Rin's taste in horror movies is the destructive, chilling type so he doesnt mind if you shift closer for comfort. Whether you're clinging to his arm with your head dug into his shoulder hiding or gently pressed against his side by the end of the night, Rins happy that you got to spend time together indulging in his interest.

♡ Another thing is that Rin gets more comfortable from this date day (?). He feels less alienated when you sit alongside him watching something people may find repulsive and appreciates your tolerance of him. He knows he isnt the easiest to get along with so the moments you share are all the more important to him.

♡ One of the highlights of the day is you and Rin going out to buy snacks and ingredients for meals to prepare for the movies. He thinks that actually spending time with you and getting to know what brands you like or trying something new together brings you closer together as well as cooking and putting together the meals between movies. He appreciates the monents you get to share and the tenderness of it all.

ITOSHI SAE 🌊

♡ Sae takes you to the coast so you guys can watch over the sea. It was an acitivity he'd done for a while since getting to Spain but he wanted to share it with you - something simple that grounded him. Bonus points since the view was beautiful so you'd fit right in. Beside him.

♡ I think Sae originally started looking over the sea since he missed his home of Kanagawa back in Japan but I also think the main reason why he chose to take you was because you'd started to feel like home as well. The experience was soothing and self-indulgent but he thinks it brings you closer since he feels most vulnerable and nostalgic.

♡ He wouldnt say it out loud but Sae can see you as part of his future. You'd already started feeling like home and his homesickness was alleviated around you. Sae thinks that he'd like you around, as part of his future.

♡ When you aren't looking he takes a picture of you against the sunset. It's quieter as the days ending and the warmth of the dusk hues hide the warmth on his own face. The loneliness at the end of the day suddenly feels like a cozy time just for the both of you.

ISAGI YOICHI 🍀

♡ You and Yoichi plan to explore the local food and drink scene. The both of you go cafe hopping and laugh at each others disgust and share over exaggerated "mmms" when finding new go-to orders.

♡ Isagi thinks its really cute if you accidentally get crumbs or a bit of your drink on your lip. He also thinks its charming when you drag him by the arm to another cafe across the street or when you struggle to locate a nearby cafe that recently got popular on social media.

♡ By the end of the day you both have a bunch of half eaten snacks so you have an impromptu picnic at the park just finishing off the food you brought. He prefers this time where its just the both of you, away from the prying eyes of the world. Where he's just yours.

♡ Before you leave the park, by some miracle, Isagi manages to find a four leaf clover. He hands it you while muttering something about you being a lucky charm for him. He's a bit quiet from the flustered feeling thats bubbling his chest but he would do it even if that feeling wanted to burst out of his chest.

YUKIMIYA KENYU 🌸

♡ Yukimiya shows up with a bouquet of flowers, dressed casually but elegant as usual. On top of that, the cologne he spritzed was different, a subtle floral scent lingered when he hugged you.

♡ The both of you go flower viewing to enjoy the view before the blossoms go out of season. Especially since he wants to make the most of the sight he has left - not just the fleeting world around him, but also the person whos a constant in his life - you.

♡ He definitely takes candida of you but he doesnt share them with you just yet. He places them all in a scrapbook the details all his feelings about the dates you go on. Yukimiya doesnt plan on giving it to you just yet, not until the book is filled anyway. If his sight outruns the book then he hopes you'll be there to finish it for him.

♡ As a model, Yukimiya also coordinated your outfits and made sure you felt like a princess all the way through the day. Endless comments on how beautiful you are and reminders that he's thankful he's yours.

HIORI YO 🎮

♡ Hiori loads up a minecraft world and gets to work. He decides to put in the effort and do everything from scratch in survival - he even has a little book that documented his thoughts the days leading up to 520 and what he built.

♡ On the minecraft world is a little house in your favourite colour. He made sure your beds were next to eachother and that there were hidden chests that had love notes in them as well as tamed wolves or cats for you to name and take care of.

♡ When he gives you access to the server, he gives you a guided tour of it, hinting towards the hidden chests as well encouraging you guys to sleep next to eachother when the days over. He later surprises you by showing up to your door with food and dessert.

♡ He finishes off the day by playing a 2 player game with you. You both rage a little but the night is fun nonetheless. Hiori isn't massively affectionate, but he thinks that doing things like this isnt so bad every once in a while - especially if the person he's spending time with is you.

ALEXIS NESS 🪄

♡ Ness is a believer in magic and is devoted without a doubt. He likes the time you spend together because that whimsical feeling of love to him is like magic itself. Thats why he suggests you both try to make 1000 paper cranes together in order to grant a wish.

♡ You guys sit there talking about anything and everything in the world. There was a show playing in the background, sometimes you guys would switch it up and play the Notebook but the TV was never having your full attention anyway. If you both get restless from sitting down for too long, Ness would turn on some music and slow dance with you. He likes it when you guys are close, just calmly connecting

♡ You guys dont make it to 1000 that day before falling asleep but even if you did, Ness would've given you the wish to you. He believes that your happiness will bring him a sense of satisfaction too. But if it were up to him, he'd wish that your future together is healthy, happy, and full of love and affection. In Ness' opinion, its a win-win situation.

♡ Although you dont finish making the 1000 cranes that day, whenever he has time, Ness will try to add a few to the collection so that you can someday get the wish you deserve.

[iloveboysinred]

SNOWED IN.

|MDNI 18+ content | Sylus x afab reader

synopsis; Sylus surprises you with a week-long trip to a ski resort in Alaska.

cw; afab reader, no use of y/n, crack/fluff. Sylus and reader are whipped for each other, sylus is bad at skiing , Gets a bit spicy but not outright smut, an attempt at writing something cutesy for the holidays. instagram posts at the end <3 (lets all pretend alaska exists in the lnds universe)

3114k words | playlist

If there was one thing Sylus was exceedingly good at, it would be spontaneity. It seemed like every other week he had something new scheduled for the two of you. Whether it’d be a date to an upscale restaurant, or the grand opening of a new club he had recently bought; Sylus liked to keep you entertained.

Christmas was coming, and it was his favorite time of the year to spoil you and treat you to luxuries you’d never thought accessible before. This year he’d planned a costly week-long getaway trip to a ski resort in Alaska, complete with a cozy private cabin and various activities to make your stay as memorable as possible.

You were beyond excited, packing all of your warmest garments and feeling less than guilty clearing out your schedule for the entire week. Your heart nearly fluttered away from your chest when you heard the coded knocks at your front door. Sylus, your very own prince charming, was finally here to rescue you from the painful dullness of everyday life. Eager, you open the door and pull him inside before he could get a word in, his surprised grunt ripping a fit of giggles from your chest as you embraced him, rocking his taller frame side to side in your arms. Sylus laughed, affectionately petting your head when you released him, running around to collect your things and throw in whatever you thought appropriate.“What an excited little kitten.” He mused to himself, holding his arms out dutifully as you piled on suitcases and bags for him to carry.

You don’t even try to hide your appreciation, doting on him with warm kisses and words of gratitude as he finished hauling the last of your luggage into the car. He returned your affections with quiet mirth, cradling your face into the plane of his chest, lovingly sharing his warmth with you. “Let's go, sweetie.” He murmured into your hair after a while, regrettably pressing a sweet kiss to the crown of your head and opening the passenger door for you all gentlemen-like.

Mephisto cawed to you in greeting from his perch on the arm rest, quickly nestling into your lap when you sat down, cooing like a needy cat demanding his share of your attention. You complied, stroking the bird’s bill tenderly as Sylus started the ignition, driving at less than favorable speeds.

Arriving at the resort felt like you had just stepped into winter wonderland. Undisturbed snow stretched for miles, blanketing the large hills and mountaintops overlooking the resort in blinding white. Pine trees decorated the open plains, their thick branches weighed down with heavy snow, just barley blending in with the surroundings. You eagerly surged out of the jet, drinking in the scenery despite the biting cold. Sylus followed you out, handing the luggage off for the twins to carry back to your cabin.

“Excited?” Sylus tenderly wraps a thick scarf around your neck, pulling a lip of the knitted fabric over to cover your nose. You nod, rubbing your eyes to ease the soreness you felt from the beaming sun reflecting off of the white snow. “So, when do we start skiing?” you turned towards him with childish enthusiasm beaming in your eyes, jet lag long forgotten. He only smiled, taking your hand in his “let's head to the cabin and change first. The vacation would go to waste if you catch a cold.” You obliged, feeling a bit ahead of yourself, but still unable to stop yourself from drinking in your surroundings as he led the way.

The cabin, albeit sizable, was as cozy as you had hoped. Familiar aromas of cinnamon and nutmeg greeted you as you opened the door, your eyes blinking appreciatively at the old timey lamps stationed at every corner of the cabin, bathing the room in a comforting glow. The large floor to ceiling curtains suppress the outside world’s natural light. In the living room area, a large bearskin rug laid out in front of a river-stone fireplace, complimenting the assortment of fur blankets and bedding neatly folded on the couch for you to use.

The bedroom itself matched the interior decoration, two matching nightstands sat at each side of the large bed, complete with layers of thick blankets and pristine pillows. The nightstands themselves each had its own lamp, and two satin sleep masks folded neatly over a set of matching robes for the both of you. Before you could even begin to strip down and change into appropriate attire, Luke and Kieran leisurely stroll in through the door, dropping duffel bags onto the hardwood floors, whatever was inside hitting the floor with a loud clang!

“We bought the skiing gear you requested, boss.” Luke chirped, pulling down the bottom part of his ski mask, his nose rosy red from the outside cold. “We even got the extra stuff you wanted. The gift shop is impressive” Kieran added, cheekily grabbing one of the complimentary pastries left by the staff and handing Sylus what you guessed was his credit card. They exchanged a few more words you couldn't make out, only hearing their enthusiastic shuffling before the door shut behind them.

Turning around you met Sylus’s gaze, mischief dancing in his eyes as he walked towards you with the two duffel bags in hand. “Better suit up sweetie, the twins are waiting for us at the bunny slope.” you eagerly grabbed the bag he outstretched to you, hurrying off to change.

To your surprise Sylus had sent you ahead, claiming he needed to unpack a few things before he could feel truly comfortable heading out to join you. In the meantime, the twins kept you company, racing you down the gentle slope a few times before moving on to a different hill. You became the designated photographer, the three of you snapping pictures and laughing as you wandered up and down the resort, your cheeks growing numb and flushed from the biting cold. You watched as Luke and Kieran raced down the ‘black diamond,’ the two of them darting past each other and leaving long tracks in the snow, their shouts of excitement nearly drowned out by the wind. It was then that you noticed nobody else was waiting in line to take a turn. The resort was basically a ghost town, save for you and the staff.

Briefly, you wondered if Sylus was planning something. It wasn't unusual for him to rent out or even buy a space for just the two of you to enjoy, but his insistence for you to go ahead without him and his quiet exchange with the twins raised alarm bells in your mind.

Kieran’s panicked shouts drew you out of your thoughts a second too late. You felt them before you saw them— the impact of twins crashing into you was strong enough to send the three of you toppling over into the snow. Recovering from the initial shock, you broke out into a fit of laughter, the twins awkwardly scrambling off of you, their hurried apologies coming from all angles as they helped you to your feet. Distracted by the sheer comedy of the moment, you just barely missed Mephisto’s loud cries from overhead, signifying Sylus’s upcoming approach.

The crow descended from the sky like a hawk, clicking and cooing as he landed on your shoulder, shaking his feathers out in protest to the wind. Sylus appeared soon after, fully decked out in ski gear and heavy clothing, you would barely recognize it was him if not for the aura and presence he exuded, effortlessly maintaining his elegance despite how silly he looked with his oversized snow goggles and weighty ski boots, exhibiting the classic penguin waddle of somebody not used to wearing skis. “decided to join us?” You mused, regarding him with fond eyes as he approached. “Of course,” he shifted in his spot uncomfortably, the heavy ski boots felt like they added 5 pounds to each foot, and you could already picture the irritated furrow in his brow. “Couldn’t let you have all the ‘fun’. Now, who wants to try their luck in a race against me?” You grinned, grabbing his wrist and all but dragging him to the chairlift while the twins followed.

It was hard to race against Sylus when the man could just barely balance himself on the ski’s. You watched in amusement as he clicked them on to the bottoms of his boots, slightly wobbling his way over to you once safely off the chairlift. You smiled from behind the ski mask, holding his arm while he adjusted his stance. It was obvious Sylus had never skied before, yet he still shooed away your doting hands, standing up straighter to clumsily maintain his balance. “Are you ready to lose?” You teased, waddling closer so that he could hear you through the protection of your mask. “Lose? “Don’t be so sure of your victory just yet, kitten.” despite his self assured tone, you don’t miss the way his hands gripped the ski poles to steady himself. You giggled, shifting a few feet away from him to ready yourself.

The twins counted down from behind you, and on the third mark, you pushed off and down the hill. Wind whipped around as you descended down the slope, and you quickly angled your ski’s into a v-shape to gain more speed, skillfully leaning your weight down onto the boots. You could just barely see Sylus from your peripheral, delighted to see him holding his own but still unable to gain advantageous speed.

In minutes you scored your victory.

“It seems you’ve won.” Sylus grumbled, coming to a stop next to you and very quickly clicking the ski’s off, again, balancing on the poles. “When you say it like that, it's almost as if you can’t accept that you’ve lost.” You mused dusting the snow off of his goggles, giggling when he slid them over his helmet, his eyes squinting at the sudden adjustment. “I can always just teach you, Sy.” He scoffed, already trekking back towards the chairlift. “Let's go again.” Unbeknownst to you, the twins crept away towards your cabin, swooning over the secret pictures they had taken of you and Sylus as they eagerly headed to complete their task.

You stayed outside until your muscles locked and your hands were numb.racing over and over until the daylight sky had darkened into beautiful midnight, the lack of light pollution providing the stars an open canvas to shine at full luminosity. It was beautiful, the hues of purple and blue painting the open sky stealing your breath away. Following Sylus back to the cabin had you light on your feet. The silence of the surrounding woodland created an air of private intimacy. It was only you and him out here, where no prying eyes could follow.

You paid no mind to the darkness that greeted you when you opened the door, the both of you carelessly stripping off the heavy snow-proof clothing and leaving it on the couch for tomorrow. You stop in your tracks as you enter the bedroom.The room was candlelit, adding to the cozy atmosphere the cabin already provided, on the bed Sylus had assorted a barrage of different gift bags– all from different upscale brands, a mix of names you recognized and others you didn't. In the center of it all, sat a large maroon box, topped with a pretty black bow.

Sylus sauntered in, his chest pressing against your back. You leaned into him, your heart beating in your chest as his arm slid over yours, intertwining your fingers. “A gift for every day that we spend together.” He whispered, pressing his lips to the crown of your head. You turned around in his embrace, your eyes shining with emotion. “Sylus, i- i don’t know what to say…thank you.” he smiled, cradling your face in his large hand, his nose brushing against yours as he leaned in. “You don’t have to say anything. Just let me hold you like this a little longer.” you closed the space between you, shyly touching your lips to his in a gentle kiss. Sylus responded, holding you close to him as he returned your love. Melting into his arms, you stood on your tippy toes to deepen the kiss, conveying your adoration through your actions. You carded your fingers through his hair, ruffling the silky strands and he moved with you, his hands coming down to rest at your hips, pressing back into you with the same neediness. Slowly, he parted from you, releasing a breath. “I’ve drawn a bath.” his voice had picked up into a rasp, invoking jitters to run up and through your body. “Okay.” you breathed, wading out of his arms and letting him guide you to the bathroom.

You were pleasantly surprised to see the bathtub adorned with tea lights and a small record player sitting on the bathroom counter, a vinyl already inserted and ready to be played. Sylus swiftly moved the tonearm onto the vinyl, and the record began to spin. Unhurried, you undressed each other, exchanging heated kisses and wandering touches that set your skin ablaze.

Finally making it to the large tub, you sat in between Sylus’s legs, comfortably leaning back into him as he gently rubbed a soapy sponge over your skin. You felt your muscles relax, the steaming water loosening the knots that had begun to form after a long day of travel and strain. You closed your eyes, reveling in his touch, the music from the record player adding the perfect touch to your intimacy. Sylus pressed kisses down the side of your neck, slowly lathering the aromatic soap over your chest with the sponge, his intentions indiscreet. Leaning your head back, you let him kiss you breathless. The unique aroma of his cologne and natural musk overwhelmed your senses, your head spinning with each shift of his bare body against yours. It didn’t take long for Sylus to take you for himself, the water sloshing and spilling over the tub becoming evidence of your copulation.

Once dried and in your robes, the two of you grazed over a small charcuterie board, sharing glasses of wine and aimless small talk. Unable to stop yourself, you leaned over to his side of the bed where the two of you had pushed the gift bags away to safety and picked up the maroon box that had caught your attention the most, sitting it on your lap as you looked at him, fingering around the black bow curiously. “What’s in here?” Sylus shrugged, the corners of his mouth upturning, repressed excitement clear on his face. “I don't know, kitten. I guess you’ll just have to open it and see.” You carefully untied the ribbon and cracked open the box. A beautiful dress laid folded inside, matching earrings and a necklace delicately placed on the collar. You placed the accessories on the lid of the box, admiring the intricate design.

It appeared to be two lizard like—no, two dragons guarding a silver plated ruby, the earrings matching the beautiful gem. The dress itself was a deep maroon, matching the box it came in. The material felt silky to the touch, and its length was much too long for you to fully admire from your seated position. You glanced at Sylus, holding the dress up to your chest. “It's beautiful Sy. But, when would I wear this?” He chuckled at the awe on your face. “We have dinner tomorrow.” He stood up, retrieving the record player from the bathroom and setting it on the bed, re-spinning the vinyl and clasping your hand to pull you towards him. “It's somewhat of a winter’s ball. Now would be good practice.” You leaned into him, allowing the taller man to take the lead and sway you to the music.

“This is hardly ballroom dancing.” You mused, letting him twirl you around, feeling just as elegant in your bathrobe. “We’ll do it our way.” He took you in his arms, twirling the two of you around to the melody before placing you back down. You felt like you were walking on clouds, and as you gazed into the deep sanguine of his eyes, you realized that you’d hadn’t seen him today. From the ski mask obstructing the view of his face, the few hours you had spent apart entertained by the twins, and even in the bathtub, where you both had given in to your most carnal desires—the day had tossed you up into a storm, offering you little to no time to admire the man before you, who could effortlessly swept you off your feet, the man that has done everything—no matter how mundane, to satisfy you.

The time was now. You drank him in; the silver strands of his hair, still damp and moussed against his skin, perfectly matching the beautiful ivory frame of his eye lashes. His thin, perfect lips and the perfect slope of his nose- and of course, his eyes. Beautiful, intense scarlet bore into yours, a thousand unspoken words in his adoring gaze. As the song slowed to a stop, so did the two of you, your lips meeting again in sweet kiss, holding each other close unhurriedly pouring your hearts dry.

And as the day’s exhaustion caught up with you, the bed was welcoming. You laid against his body, his arm a comforting weight around your waist. Your body lost consciousness before your mind did, and you didn’t miss the amorous words he whispered into your ear.

Bloopers and ig posts!

Luke and Kieran crept into the cabin reserved for you and Sylus, Mephisto perched on Kieran’s shoulder. They looked around once, twice— before they entered. They had been instructed to light each and every candle Sylus had set out before you would arrive. Both to prevent the fire hazard and to ensure the candles were still lit once you came in. “Who knew the boss was so romantic?” Luke mused, taking the candle lighter and flickering on the tea lights around the tub. “I wonder how she managed to steal his heart” Kieran called back, bringing forth the small record player and vinyl, delicately placing it on the counter. The two of them swooned, admiring their handy work. Mephisto cawed a warming. You and Sylus were approaching. Alarmed, the two of them finished off the last of the candles, quickly shuffling towards the back window, hurriedly tumbling out when they heard the keys jingling in the lock. They landed hard in the snow, grunting as they tripped over each other trying to flee the scene, Mephisto following overhead.

[0mysteiarchives]

"Without a trace."

• Firefly , Aventurine , Misha , Robin

A/N: Felt quirky soo... reader dying alone arc

Warnings: reader actually dying like fr and angst ?? idk.. also ooc or something... i'll just put it in case

Well..! So you were caught by death at an unexpected moment, but..

Not a single person in Penacony knew you were gone?

-

Your body feeling heavy and your vision becoming blurry, you held tightly onto the last string of consciousness you had left, thinking about the person you cared the most..

Firefly had offered to take you around the plaza to play different games, try different pastries, watch the beautiful scenery from her secret hideout until by each other's side like a little 'date'..

Oh, how she eagerly waits for you as people come and go by her with the happy feelings she hopes to share with you, not even knowing you're gone.

Adventurine had made a bet with you, and the loser of the game has to take the other to an expensive, and luxurious restaurant. He joked that it would be a romantic moment between the two of you and watched as you brushed him off and accepted the deal.

Oh, how disappointed he felt when he never received a single message, thinking that you had backed out without telling him as he walked away from your meeting spot, unaware that you're even gone.

Misha had accepted your offer of helping around the Reverie out of sympathy, you watched as his expression turned from a confused to a happy, and appreciative one. He felt grateful that you would keep him company and have time to catch up.

Oh, how deeply sad he felt as he never saw you walk through the hotel entrance, thinking you had abandoned your promise. He'd overthink that you were gone.

Robin had given you a free ticket to her next concert, giving you a sweet smile and telling you to keep it a secret from her fans, to which you gave into and accepted the invitation. She gave you a hug before parting ways to get ready and make herself presentable mostly for you.

Oh, how hurt she felt when she was unable to find you within the crowd, quickly scurrying down after her performance to ask her fans, her staff members, and even her brother for your whereabouts. How heartbroken she'd be to find out you were gone.

And oh, how you wished that you could have seen them for one last time with tears in your eyes, as you apologize that you two may not meet ever again.

-

Literally chilling in my chair w food and water casually writing random angst I thought would be cool rn

[leftarmofl1fe]

hue makes an appearance again.. if any of yall know me from tiktok and saw my first post about him ily

don’t mind me @toffeebrew @howlsofbloodhounds

Yapping below \/

So initially he didn’t have much of a story because I’m not very creative and I blank out whenever I try to make something original so yeah.

basically, if Color were ever to get error-d, I think he would be on a hike, probably in some random AU that had nice scenery or something. He’s wearing a rain jacket because it was raining at the place he was, and he he just happened to be at the wrong place at the wrong time, and Error or some other entity was destroying it or something. As for how he got into the anti void,,, yall can use ur imagination 😭

(That’s the best explanation I can give, kill me)

I was more focused on the actual character than his backstory, so I’ll just explain my ideas of how he would act and such..

I called him Static Hue, or just Hue for short. (It’s a synonym of color I’m very creative guys)

I think whatever caused the error in his code amalgamated the human souls, and kind of made them fuse together, so Hue can never understand what they are saying because they speak over each other all the time. The different traits overlap and he feels mixed emotions all the time, along with intense mood swings and anxiety attacks. His flames also change color at a much faster rate, so people with epilepsy will stay FAR away from him 😭😭😭😭

Fun fact: he’s also blind. The only thing he can actually see is the color of his flames (which change all the time), and it tends to give him headaches and nausea. His grabblings are always out and just attached to his back so he can use them to move around.

As for the strings, they are very hot to the touch and leave burn marks on however he uses them on. They burn himself as well but he doesn’t pay any attention to it.

Hue’s memory is very jumbled, he didn’t necessarily forget about everything, but he doesn’t remember why exactly he does things. He knows he needs to help killer and protect him at all costs, but he isn’t sure why. He knows he hates Nightmare and REALLY wants that guy dead, but he doesn’t know where that hatred came from. And of course he naturally feels safer near the epic trio, and nervous staying in the same places for too long.

hue’s pretty obsessive over Killer for this reason. His need to help killer was multiplied by a gazillion, and he tends to just.. kidnap Killer and take him random places to keep him close. Sometimes he accidentally hurts him, but he doesn’t realize it, the only thing he can think about is keeping him safe and close to himself. On the contrary, he gets super aggressive and defensive at the mention of Nightmare, and if he were to see him face to face he would attack without hesitation. He knows his job is to keep Killer safe and away from Nightmare, and that’s really his only motive. He just doesn’t know where it came from.

Similarly to most errors, he has trouble speaking because of stuttering and glitches. He also can’t form very clear thoughts because the souls are constantly influencing his behavior. He has trouble explaining his thoughts and feelings, he tends to speak more in actions (as in he would crush you to death in a hug to show affection.)

anyway. If anyone wants to add onto this or share thoughts I’d appreciate it..

Here’s some older drawings of him LMAO

[fishnapple]

Your travel destinations, where should you travel to?

This topic was suggested by someone, I think it's really an interesting idea but hard to do a reading on. This will be a reading about what kind of places you should go for each purpose (to relax, to connect, to find inspiration, to find opportunity)

This is a general reading meant for multiple people. Take only what resonates and leave out the rest.

Your feedback is much appreciated. If you find the reading resonated with you, leave a comment, I’d love to know 🎐

About me | Masterpost Book a reading with me - KO-FI (→ personal reading)

URANUS

The energy is quite active or, in some cases, defensive. Wherever you go, there's an element of protection, you have to protect something of yours, your stance, your opinions, your achievements, your possessions, you might need to be cautious when travelling.

To relax: somewhere remote and private, where you don't have to meet many people and worry about prying eyes. Could be some lesser known beaches or resorts. You should feel familiar with these places, they shouldn't be somewhere new, maybe these place were where you went when you were a kid and had a lot of fond memories about them. Even if they have been renovated, they still contain some nostalgic elements. I see fields, twilight time, birds, lots of water, maybe some place where it rains a lot.

To connect: lively places with lots of banters. This kind place should be suitable for talking openly so it won't be those dimly lit restaurants where soothing music is playing and everyone talks in low voice. This place is kind of rowdy, an element of competition, there is little space between people, strangers can easily talk to each other without much awkwardness. I see a pub where people are watching some show and talking about it, a debate club, a workshop, a sports centre, an arcade, contests.

To find inspiration: contrary to the places for connection, the places where you can find inspiration will be quiet, professional, everyone is keeping to themselves. If there's talk at all, it will be an introduction, a lecture, one person is talking while the others listen. A class, a museum, an exhibition, a presentation. If it's somewhere in nature then it will be a high place, mountains, hills, where you can see the scenery below and where you can see the stars clearly.

To find opportunities: lots of people around, older people, teachers, foreigners. Somewhere you have an emotional connection with or somewhere with lots of acquaintances. The setting is comfy, warm but formal. Could be school, overseas business trips, a forum. There are lots of talking, exchange ideas, commercial places, a bakery, a bookshop. Somewhere sunny and dry, should be near where you are living, not too far, like the kind that is continents away. This might be where you can settle down and stay long-term.

MERCURY

All the places you go to will have a great impact on your life, it doesn't matter if they are small or grand, secluded or public. They all have a certain foreign element to them.

To relax: this place has to look nice and beautiful to you. You can't relax in shabby, aesthetically ugly places. I see lots of sleeping, this is where you go to get some shut eyes. Maybe somewhere you go to periodically, somewhere familiar with lots of memories. This place will have lots of natural lights, you can catch the sunlight and the moonlight easily. Sleeping under the moonlight to recharge (but be mindful of moonburn though, it's real, if you have sensitive skin, the moon is strong in your chart or you were born on new moon, moonlight can mildly burn your skin if exposed for too long)

To connect: you won't be able to expect these kinds of places. Maybe you have some negative impressions about them or they seem out of your comfort zone. This will likely be when you are taken by somebody else to this place, not on your own. It can be an emergency or maybe something happens at the current place so you have to move to another. You will be reluctant to go there. If not, then you will only go to this kind of place on a whim, something has changed drastically for you, or you consciously want to be more daring and brave. In short, any places that you immediately feel the urge to resist going there, but, also have a certain fascination with them, will be the places where you can connect with people the most.

To find inspiration: somewhere you have to travel by air to get there. Likely foreign countries. You will hear lots of talks about these places, they could be some famous destinations or have a certain charm to a specific group of people. The sky is clear and bright, lots of vehicles, lush scenery, different from your own culture.

To find opportunities: this will be a busy place, people running around, a lot of things can be accomplished there. You will have to be fast and direct there, a very dynamic environment, likely your workplace or a job fair. This place seems serious, not much fun is allowed there.

PLUTO

This group might actually just fit for only a few people.

To relax: This is probably a bit unconventional, but the place where you can find relaxation is actually your workplace, or somewhere you can carry out your duty, do your job. The reputation of the tasks, the busy atmosphere, the sense of responsibility and helpfulness, and knowing that you're contributing to something might ground your mind. Another place is somewhere lively with lots of people, this kind of place can make you feel more alive, especially if you're someone who usually feels lonely or feels some voids inside when you're alone. The physical energy of people around you, the concentration you put into your work might be your anchor.

To connect: somewhere that lets you immerse in all the five senses, nature scenery, during the period of autumn, when fruits are ripe, the scents of everything grow stronger. This will be the place where you've been to in the past but now it has changed, it's about the things or the people you know are changing, maybe a wedding, the change of marital status. There's a feeling of spirituality and religion, could be temples, churches, places to retreat, the wood. Another one is the bank or somewhere you can exchange money.

To find inspiration: there are two types of places. One is a show, a concert, an exhibition of some artists, there will be performances. The other one is more like a situation, where you have to be at some places for some duties but you will have a chance to sneak out, to go anywhere spontaneously, probably with another person, this will feel like an adventure for you. This kind of situation will give you a sense of being free, being spontaneous.

To find opportunities: the place where you can find lots of opportunities for growth will be the place for meeting friend groups. You will meet lots of friends there. I see schools, the plaza, city squares, the internet, groups of shared interests. Streams, where water flows, places where you can hear birds singing clearly, water park, cinemas. This might be just for a few, but the cemetery or somewhere related to the departed, ghosts, hospital, somewhere you can connect with the ancestors.

MARS

This is not about the places but about the time, summer might not be auspicious for travelling, but the rest of the seasons, spring, autumn, winter will be. You might also take note of the moon phase, when the moon is half full, when the moon appears reddish, avoid going out, home will be the best place for you to be.

To relax: you might want to go to these places after you've done some major works and achieved something significant. It doesn't mean that you can't go before that, but going after the work is done will bring peace to your mind and rejuvenate your body. These places have good foods and animals, fruit trees, the energy feels old and bountiful. Could be camping, going to nice local restaurants, hot springs, farms, sheeps and horses come to mind. And good ol' home will also an excellent choice.

To connect: the places where you go to relax might actually be the places for you to meet and connect with more people. Some acquaintances will introduce you to someone, or you will meet them by chance, completely unexpected. Other places will be the bank, large stores, well established buildings, jewellery shops, somewhere with rich history. I also hear driveway at night, you might travel to those places at night, at the start of winter. I got a pretty weird feeling, a little scared, new connections might form when you're in some kinds of troubles, they might be the one helping you.

To find inspiration: you might want to go to see some contests, matches, especially sporty kinds, races, where people can compete, fast actions, and exciting energy. You might be in a long period of boredom or tense situations, so you will want to get out and get some fresh air, to shake your spirit up a little.

To find opportunities: you might go to someone else's homes to learn some skills or to show your expertise, or a place where you can practice those skills. There will be examinations, evaluations, discussions of the skills and the related products. I see wine and food, handmade crafts, things that take a long time to make.

[cosmicalily]

ʚɞ "talk about: pop music" - a 𝒔𝒕𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝒌𝒊𝒅𝒔 mini series by @cosmicalily ★ view series 𝓷𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓰𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷 ʚɞ

୨ৎ 𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝟐: hurt and forgiveness with gang member!lee minho | “i don't often use your name, but i'm craving to” - '𝒐𝒎𝒈' by suki waterhouse

ʚɞ 𝒂𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓'𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕𝒆: sorry this took me so long to get out !! it's lowkey angsty af but i wanted to bust out something a bit deeper/more meaningful since my recent uploads have just been silly smaus #duality ʚɞ 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔: mentions of substance use and violence (not towards reader), prison, police, unspecified relationship

You and Minho hadn’t even technically broken up. After all, was it really a breakup if the two of you were never officially together at any point? He was everything you’d expected. Like a stray cat, he would lurk around, never staying for longer than an hour, but always returning when you had something he wanted. Only ever inviting you over when he wanted to make out or get blackout drunk. It was always on his terms, not that you had issues with that. You appreciated the distraction, the change of scenery. 

He told you that he loved you, that you were his favourite girl, and called you pretty. You loved the affection and attention, even if it was the same script he’d repeated to several girls in the same day. You knew he saw other people. You saw other people too, although maybe not as frequently. However, you knew that he was telling the truth when he called you his favourite girl. The others were all backups, second options for if you were away, not in the mood or with someone else.

So you were special, to some degree.

You knew the relationship was a mess. Neither of you were willing to commit to more than a few hours a few times a week, usually late at night or early in the morning. He didn’t occupy your mind the way a lover should. He was like a way to wind down, a way to escape the monotony of your life, but without having to worry about it permanently. Because your mind changed fast. You liked lots of people. You didn’t want to be tied down to one, and he didn’t particularly want to be, either.

And if fingers were to be pointed, you had been the one to tell him you were fed up.

Lee Minho was in jail for the fourth time, even though he’d promised you he wouldn’t go back. Each time he left, you brought his cat, Nero, over to stay at your apartment until he returned. Usually it was only a few weeks, sometimes a month or so. His cat, no matter how much it rubbed itself on your furniture or nuzzled into your perfumed skin, always smelled like Minho.

He’d promised you that he was done, that he’d been clean for a month and hadn’t even thought about getting high again. That he hadn’t fought anyone or even witnessed blood and bruises, let alone been the one to bear them, in weeks. 

Yet three days ago, he’d been convicted again. It had been so stupid, so repetitive, so predictable. You knew who was knocking at the door before it had even opened. You’d known from the way he’d tensed against you, his arms tight around your waist. Even though you’d wriggled in an attempt to get off him and open the door, he’d held you firm and close for a moment, taking a deep breath.

When you’d finally slipped out of his grasp, the look in his eyes was pained. Minho often experienced fury, not towards you, but rarely sadness. Or disappointment. Maybe in others, but not in himself.

His eyes were glassy.

The officer had known; you’d been somewhat acquainted with him by now. His name was Chan, and he was quiet but authoritative. He’d come the last time Minho had been arrested. Maybe even the time before.

“You should be careful, ma’am,” he’d warned you. “You don’t want to be associated with things like this.”

And this time, like every time, you’d agreed. You shook your head at Minho, tears streaking your cheeks.

As the car drove off, you caught his eyes through the window.

The first time, you’d blown him a kiss.

Today, you flipped him off.

It was late in the evening, your hair still damp from your shower, when you heard a knock on the door. The noise startled Nero, who had been sleeping soundly on your thigh as you painted your nails a deep shade of burgundy.

With a sigh and an apology to Nero, you hauled yourself off the rug on your living room floor and made your way over to the door of your apartment. Glancing through the peephole, you saw a familiar face.

Your neighbour, Felix.

You opened the door, offering him a smile. He returned it, but there was a look of concern in his eyes. “Hey, Y/N. I think the mailman delivered a letter for you to mine,” he paused, pulling the envelope out of his pocket, lowering his voice to a whisper. “It’s from prison.”

Your chest tightened, and you turned over the envelope in your hands. From Lee Minho. “Thanks, Felix,” you replied, your voice barely audible.

“Is everything okay?”

“Yeah, fine. Well, depending on what this says. Thanks again, though.”

Felix hovered a second longer, despite your dismissal. “If it isn’t, remember you can talk to me, yeah? I do care.”

“Thanks, Lix,” you smiled, squeezing his shoulder and giving him a wave as you slipped back inside your apartment, locking the door behind you.

Your heartbeat was hammering, breathing quickened. You’d never heard from Minho while he was in jail before, never visited or even associated with him. It was like a secret the two of you suppressed, something you pretended wasn’t happening. So he didn’t feel guilty for disappointing you, and so you didn’t feel guilty for disappointing yourself.

Tearing the edge of the envelope, you realised you’d never actually seen his handwriting before. It was rigid, but soft at the curves, a flick at the loop of a ‘u’ and a sharp line at the top of a ‘t’. Reading through, your body ached. In pain, but also in longing. His words were clear, direct, everything your relationship hadn’t been. He claimed he was in a rehab program, that he’d started getting therapy from the counsellors and was doing everything in his capacity to try and get better, to never have to return. To be present for you. “And Nero,” he’d added, with a little smiley face scrawled beside it.

You remembered the warnings.

Yet when you pulled up in the parking lot two and a half days later, spotting Minho standing with his hands in his pockets, you felt nothing but relief. Comfort.

The hug he gave you was genuine, a touch that wasn’t driven by some kind of force of desire. Yearning.

He’d always been the one to come back to you, but this time, you came to him. 

Because he had asked for you.

taglist: @hyunjiiza @velvetmoonlght @s3ungm1nxxl0ve @btch8008s @ellemir2404 @bellarellasstuff @starsinagreenskyxx @ashtxrie @pigeonseatmayo @modesttiger @woozarts @zelinkcrossing @urlocalmultigroupfan @shuuporanglinos @lezleeferguson-120 @r1nstaaa @bibibahngg @jessxxxfwd @koiiqqqq @lenfilms @yaniblvsh @dearmini @ilovedallywinston @0sunshinecryptid0 @peskybirdysya @channieschocco @straberieslee @hanverse-recs @skzfangirl143 @hanjiiscake | send an ask, comment or dm to be added :)

[oskea93]

Kansas Anymore (1)

Tyler Owens x OC

Summary: In which Riley Owens, the ex-wife of the infamous Tornado Wrangler, has 36 hours to come to terms if moving to a whole new country with their small daughter is something she truly wants to do.

Warnings: Cursing, angst, suggested smut, fluff.

If you would like to be tagged, just drop a comment ❤️

“Darling, I don’t understand why he’s making you come to him when he’s perfectly capable of flying out to see her. Is he afraid he’s going to miss a gust of wind and all his little cronies on the internet will stop following his every move?” My mother’s frustration was palpable, her voice cutting through the hum of the car engine.

I stayed silent, the roar of the car on the two-lane road answering in my place. My mother’s loud sigh sounded through the speakers; a noise filled with years of pent-up exasperation. “I’ve never seen a man so self-centered as that one – going around chasing tornados like some kind of deranged jackass.”

An innocent chuckle sounded from the seat behind me. I glanced in the rearview mirror to see Caroline’s little hands folded in front of her face, her bright eyes staring out the window at the passing scenery. The sight of her brought a small smile to my lips, even as my mother’s words lingered in the air.

“Mom, it’s just how he is,” I finally said, my voice tinged with resignation. “Tyler’s always been about the thrill, the excitement. He’s never been one for settling down or thinking about anyone else’s needs.”

“And yet, here you are, always the one making the effort,” she replied, her tone softening slightly. “It’s just not fair to you or to Caroline. She deserves to have her father in her life, not just in fleeting moments when it suits him.”

I leaned my head into the headrest, feeling the weight of the conversation starting to drain me. “Yeah, well, that’s the way we decided, and it’s worked so far,” I replied, my voice lacking its usual conviction.

Mom’s response was immediate, her concern piercing through the speakers. “Well, are you going to tell him that this might be the last time he gets to see her for a while? You have to let him know about your promotion – you can’t just drop that you’re moving to another country with the man’s child over the phone or in a message, Riley.”

I sighed deeply, frustration washing over me. “I know, Mom. It’s just... complicated. Tyler’s never been good with this kind of news. He’ll probably accuse me of trying to take Caroline away from him, even though he’s the one who’s always too busy to be around.”

Mom stayed silent for a moment; her pause filled with unspoken thoughts. “Well, it’s his loss anyway,” she finally said, her voice matter of fact. “I know of plenty of children that grew up without a father and they are doin—”

“Tyler’s always gonna be in Caroline’s life, Mom,” I interrupted, my voice raising just a bit, careful not to get too loud in front of my daughter. “I would never take her away from him – no matter how far away we are from each other.”

My mother sighed on the other end. “I’m just looking out for my granddaughter is all.”

“And I appreciate that, but this is between Tyler and me – not you or anyone else I’m sure you’re gonna blab to.”

My mother huffed on the other end, clearly taken aback by my bluntness. “Riley, I’m only trying to help. You know how much I care about you and Caroline.”

“I know, Mom,” I said, rubbing my temple as I tried to keep my frustration in check. “But I need to handle this my way. Tyler and I need to figure this out ourselves.”

“Fine,” she relented, though her tone still carried a hint of disapproval. “Just promise me you’ll keep me updated.”

“I will,” I assured her. “I’ll call you later, okay?”

“Don’t forge-,” The call ending before she could finish the sentence.

The car returned to a peaceful state – the only sound heard being that of the show playing on the monitor built into the driver’s seat. The same cartoon that Caroline had been watching for the past two months. Her laughter and the occasional gasp of excitement were the background music to my thoughts as I navigated the familiar streets.

“There’s Daddy’s sign!” Caroline’s voice pierced through my reverie, her little finger pointing eagerly at the familiar landmark.

The fueling station’s parking lot was filled with vehicles that strived to get on the same level as Tyler – the amateurs were always my favorite to watch – trying so hard to get to his attention but backing down once the storm got too close for comfort. Most of them just crowded around him and the gang to witness the spectacle that they displayed. Tyler was the Tornado Wrangler – a title that nearly cost him his life on multiple occasions and demolished our marriage in an F4 fashion.

Tyler’s passion for chasing storms had always been a point of contention between us. The danger, the unpredictability, the constant threat – it was a lifestyle I could never fully accept. And yet, here I was, bringing Caroline to see her father, the man who danced with tornadoes and lived to tell the tale.

I slowly pulled behind a group of professional vehicles, a far cry from noticeable red truck that sat feet away as the man of the hour towered over those in attendance – Boone and Dani passing out t-shirts to those around.

Caroline’s smile never faltering as she kept her eyes on her father, “Daddy’s being silly.”

I couldn’t help but smile at her reaction – a reaction only Tyler could evoke. “Daddy’s always silly, isn’t he?” Her head nodded enthusiastically. I placed the car in park and started gathering my purse, the sound of Caroline’s car seat buckles clanging as she hastily unbuckled herself. “Hold your horses, munchkin.”

She was already halfway out of her seat, her small hands fumbling with the door handle. Her excitement was infectious, and despite my reservations about Tyler’s lifestyle, moments like these made it all seem worth it. I took a deep breath and stepped out of the car, the warm summer air wrapping around us.

Caroline bounced out of the car, her eyes wide with anticipation. She grabbed my hand, pulling me towards the crowd where Tyler was still holding court. Boone and Dani noticing us first, their faces breaking into welcoming smiles. It had been over a year since I had seen them in person, their kindness towards me never faltering even after the divorce was finalized.

“If you feel it—” Tyler’s bright smile beamed out to the audience, a real showman.

“Chase it!” The crowd shouted back, including the four-year-old at my side, catching her father’s attention in a matter of seconds.

I watched as he hopped down from the truck, the sea of onlookers parting like the Red Sea as his arms wrapped around her small body.

Caroline squealed with delight as Tyler lifted her into the air, spinning her around before pulling her close for a tight hug. Her laughter echoed through the parking lot, a sound so pure and joyous that it made everything else fade into the background.

"There's my little storm chaser," Tyler said, his voice filled with warmth. He gently set her down, and she looked up at him with wide, excited eyes. "Did you have a good flight?"

Caroline's head nodded excitedly. "Mommy yelled at the man sitting behind us because he kept hitting the back of her seat," she blurted out, her eyes wide with innocence. Tyler chuckled, glancing at me with a raised eyebrow. "Is that so?"

I sighed, a bit embarrassed, but unable to suppress a smile. "Well, he was being rude." My shoulders shrugged. "Someone had to put him in his place."

Tyler shook his head, the smile I had fallen for years ago plastered on his scruffed face. "Riled up Riley," he teased, his eyes connecting with mine. "Glad you're sharing that with others and not just me."

I rolled my eyes playfully but couldn't help the warmth that spread through me at his words. "You know me, always fighting the good fight."

Tyler nodded, his gaze lingering on Caroline for a moment before he turned back to me. "Thanks for bringing her out here."

"No problem," I said, watching as Caroline laid her head on his shoulder, her tiny fingers gripping his shirt. "She’s been talking about it all week – about drove me crazy, to be honest." We both chuckled, sharing a moment of amusement.

Tyler's eyes softened as he looked down at Caroline, who was now playing with the collar of his shirt. "I'm glad she's excited. I’ve missed her so much." He gently kissed the top of her head, and she giggled softly.

“She missed you too," I said, my voice quiet but filled with emotion.

The unavoidable conversation of Caroline and I leaving the US for dreary old England was pushed to the wayside for the moment. This was Tyler’s moment with her – I didn’t want to ruin it before it truly even started.

[huntfordaybreak]

love languages with skz 💕

part 1 - quality time

hyung line - maknae line

warnings: none! tooth-rotting fluff

a/n: the art markets in Montmartre and Hamdeok Beach are real places you can, in fact, go to. these entries end up bleeding into some of the other four languages as well of course, but such is the nature of love (´▽`ʃ♡ƪ)

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦. 　⁺ 　 .✦

bang chan

The balmy summer air was not making it any easier to stop yourself from peering stealthily at Chan in the driver’s seat of your rental convertible, wearing a casual outfit of a half-buttoned linen shirt and swimming trunks. He was drumming his fingers on the steering wheel to the music playing from the speakers as the car slowly moved up to the north side of Jeju Island.

You had made plans a long time ago to spend a weekend away together, and given Chan’s love for the ocean, you had agreed to go for a beach trip. So you found yourself parking right by Hamdeok Beach, which was proving to meet your (high) expectations – clear water, blue skies, small waves brushing up against the shore. It was stunning.

Before you had taken it all in properly, Chan had already set up a parasol and was currently fighting to put down a large beach towel against the wind. You rushed over to help him with the towel and looked for your phone to take some pictures.

After a few obligatory landscape photos, Chan came up behind you and offered to take some of you (“to send to your mom, she kept saying the other week you aren’t getting enough sun”). He was grinning behind the phone camera as you posed in a flowy sundress, squinting slightly in the bright light.

“Looking great, angel,” he called, and you walked back to him, your flip flops digging up the fine sand with each step.

“Don’t you want to take some with your phone as well?,” you asked, smiling at the photos Chan had taken. He was a pretty gifted photographer, but the scenery was definitely adding to the pictures.

“I’m alright, I don’t have my phone on me, actually,” he said, already digging for sunscreen in your bag.

You frowned, surprised. Chan was usually the first to admit he was a workaholic and it was pretty rare for him to be anywhere without his phone, if not an entire travel-friendly recording setup. “Really? You left it at home? What if there’s an --”

“I’ve left Changbin and the staff with very clear instructions that I won’t be reachable for any reason this weekend,” he interrupted you lightly, sunscreen now in hand. “They can handle it.”

You joined him underneath the parasol, feeling rather touched. “And you’re fine with that?” you asked softly. “I mean, I really appreciate it, but I don’t want you to feel restless or uncomfortable or something while we’re here.”

He seated himself a little closer to you, shaking his head, though there was no heat behind it. “Please, (Y/N), I’m more than fine with it. I’m very thankful to have this time with you and want to enjoy it as much as I can before we go back on Sunday,” he said, gently pushing some of your hair out of your face. “Now, let’s get some sun protection on that cute face of yours before we both burn to a crisp.”

lee know

“Yes, by end of day, please. Yeah. Yes, thank you.”

You sighed, hanging up the call.

Today was not your day.

You had gotten a run in your tights on your way to work basically as soon as you stepped out of the subway, spent all morning in back-to-back meetings that should have been emails, and had been forced to skip your lunch break to rectify a mistake a coworker had made in a report you were signing off on. And now, you had found out right before you were about to head home that you were missing signatures on an important budget proposal.

Normally you wouldn’t really mind too much, but you wanted to leave early today since you were supposed to meet up with Minho right after work. You anxiously eyed the clock as you waited for the necessary emails to come in.

By the time you wrapped up for the day, you had already sent an apologetic running-late-text to Minho and scored another run in your tights as you speed-walked through the subway station.

As soon as you walked into the hallway of your apartment building, you heard music playing faintly – it seemed like it was coming from behind your door. You were supposed to meet up at Minho’s place and go out for dinner, but you figured you had enough time to at least touch up your makeup and find some new tights to wear. Maybe he had gotten impatient in the extra time you had taken.

You unlocked the door and stopped in your tracks. Not only were you right – Minho was standing in the kitchen, back turned towards you – but he had probably arrived at your apartment before you had even sent your last text. He was in the middle of stirring a pot, a cutting board with chopped green onions beside him. The smell of seafood stew was immediate and comforting.

“Minho, you’re here? I thought you wanted to go out?” you asked, kicking off your heels and leaning over to him by the stove, kissing him on the cheek.

He turned to kiss you properly, murmuring a greeting, and raised an eyebrow at you. “I figured you probably weren’t feeling up for heading out again when you told me earlier about the day you were having. So I thought we would do dinner here instead.”

Your heart ached with affection, not only at the thoughtfulness, but also at the familiarity he showed with your living space – he knew where you kept your vegetable peeler, where the clean dish towels were. “You know me too well, you know.”

He smirked. “It’s part of my job description. Go get changed, dinner’s almost ready.”

Soon enough, you were sitting at your dinner table in sweatpants, one leg tucked under your body as you took a careful bite of the piping hot stew. You let out an appreciative noise; Minho knew exactly how spicy you liked your food.

With him sitting across from you barefaced in a T-shirt, you knew then that no restaurant could really come close to replicating this feeling of home.

changbin

People would have to pay you a considerable amount of money to go the gym with Changbin. You didn’t hate working out, and you certainly didn’t hate spending time with your boyfriend. However, as you explained to him, it was healthy and more sustainable for couples to do some activities separately, and you were happy to try out the odd group class on your own from time to time. It was also, as you muttered, really hard to stay focused on your own exercises when Changbin was working out within your immediate vicinity while wearing a compression shirt. This explanation usually satisfied him, you found, a wicked little smile appearing on his face.

One part of his routine that you would more readily agree to was visiting a sauna afterwards. Changbin usually made a wise comment about the importance of recovery here, but you did not need much convincing to get a massage or soak in a near-boiling pool for a while.

Today was one of those days; Changbin had picked you up from work and you had gone to a spa you both liked together. You were happily submerging yourself in the hot water, steam rising in the darkening sky. Changbin also sank in the water next to you, squeaking at the difference in temperature from the cool outside air.

“How was your day, baby?,” you asked, sidling up to him.

He closed his eyes, leaning his head back. “Good. Busy, though. Didn’t have time to text you,” he said, pouting.

You laughed and splashed some water on him. “Don’t be stupid. I won’t wilt like a dying flower without it. I’m happy to see you now,” you smiled.

Some of the cloudiness remained in his face, and you moved to gently push at the tense muscles in his shoulders. “I don’t want you to feel like I don’t have time for you. Like you’re not as important as other parts of my life,” he said quietly.

You moved away from the seating edge of the pool and got in front of him, both of you up to your shoulders in the water.

Looking at him more seriously now, you said: “Bin, if I do somehow ever end up feeling like that, I will tell you. I trust you to do the same. I think you’re being too hard on yourself right now.”

A smile came back to Changbin’s face as he pulled you back to him, back to his firm chest. He placed a kiss on the top of your head. “Thank you, sweetheart,” he muttered. “And thank you for coming here with me.”

“You say that like it’s a sacrifice on my end,” you shot back.

He laughed, and you felt it reverberate in you against your back, a sound of not just amusement, but real tenderness.

hyunjin

Sometimes, you weren't sure how this had ended up being your life.

You were waiting for Hyunjin to finish up in the enormous bathroom in your suite at the Relais Christine, it being your final day in Paris to accompany him to a Cartier shoot on location. Although the trip had been amazing – great food, the weather had been cold but sunny, you’d convinced Hyunjin to ask the brand reps for an extra set of PR goodies for you to steal – you were both tired, worn out from the packed schedule.

Today was your last day in Paris, though; you were catching a flight so early tomorrow morning that it should be illegal. You had been racking your brain for something to do together, a museum he had not been to yet, a gallery that he wouldn’t already know. Would he think it’s corny to go on one of those boat tours?

You shook your head to yourself, starting to pack a few essentials to take on your outing. Before long, Hyunjin emerged from the bathroom, free of make-up but looking as statuesque as he had during the shoot, and he seemed excited for a last outing. “You ready for a last hurrah, baby?” he said, grinning widely.

It was a nice day to be out, at least, you thought as you walked to Montmartre together. It was incredibly busy, and you stuck close to Hyunjin, his face half-covered by a (hilariously) large pair of sunglasses and hair unstyled. He was nothing if not used to navigating crowds, though, and he easily weaved through the throngs of tourists to grab sandwiches that you split, sitting on a bench covered in stickers.

Finally, something caught your eye as you looped back around to the main square: a side of the street full of stalls displaying artworks, mostly paintings.

“Hyunjin, look,” you tugged on his sleeve, “there’s the artist market that they were talking about in the guidebook!”

His eyes shone with interest as you got closer, even though your head was spinning slightly from the sheer variety of art to look at. From soft watercolors of flowers to realistic portraits of elderly people in a park or abstract prints, there was no shortage of things you could see yourself putting up in your apartment.

Suddenly, the gears in your head started turning. “Hyunjin, wait, I wanna split up.”

He wheeled around abruptly. “God, (Y/N), please don’t scare me like that,” he whined, clutching at his chest dramatically.

Suppressing a laugh, you continued: “How about we each start at one end and pick out one painting for each other? We’ve been looking for something to put in the hallway by the bathroom for ages.”

Hyunjin smiled. “What’s the budget?”

“How about 25 euros each, Mr. Cartier,” you rolled your eyes affectionately, squeezing his hand.

He squeezed yours in return and practically ran off to the opposite end of the market.

---

A month later, a watercolor of apple blossoms and a tiny ink drawing of the Seine in the morning sun hung proudly in your hallway, with a slightly blurry Polaroid of the two of you in front of the Sacre Coeur taped to the frame.

✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 .✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦ . 　⁺ 　 . ✦. 　⁺ 　 .✦

@ huntfordaybreak - do not repost.

if you are interested in being on a taglist for the other installations of this series, feel free to let me know!