#the new gentleman golfer

[theemporium]

Sugar daddy Carlos but you’re reluctant to accept his money. You hate that this is what you have to do to survive. Your friend assured you that the organization is legit and when you first meet Carlos, he instantly puts you at ease. He’s not sleazy or leering at you. He’s kind and a gentleman and he assures you that he doesn’t expect anything physical or emotional. He’s just lonely. He barely has a life outside of racing and he finds himself so, deeply, utterly alone at night.

You sign the NDAs and contracts, a lump in your throat. One year. One year at the beck and call of this stranger who could easily be manipulating you into a sense of calm. One year being this man’s companion.

But you think of the debt that’s weighing you down and sign on the dotted line.

NO BECAUSE I LOVE THIS

carlos just wants some company, not even for media reasons or anything. he just wants someone to have wee dinners with, to go on holidays with and everything because his friends are all in relationships and he is sick of feeling like a constant third wheel

and yeah it's crazy for you to experience this whole new world that you never thought you would be a part of, but imagine showing carlos a normal life? taking him around your hometown and showing him the fun wee things you'd do for fun?

i just have this super sweet image of carlos being an amazing golfer but comically shit at mini golf😭like imagine him getting frustrated and you're just laughing and it's just the sweetest sound he has ever heard

[swamp-adder]

More tidbits from the BSJ (Jan 1947):

I am indebted to Dr. Archibald Malloch, of the New York Academy of Medicine, for an anecdote which has not, so far as I know, had previous currency. It is taken from page 50 of Sir Edmund Sprigg’s 1944 Harveian Oration of the Royal College of Physicians in London, entitled The Harveian Method in Literature, as published by Headley Brothers, 109 Kingsway, W.C. 2. The entire quotation is given: "Commander Gould, R.N., of the B.B.C., told me that two golfers of a former generation, taking tea at a St. Andrews Hotel, were disputing about the whereabouts of a village near Blackheath. An older man sitting by the fire suggested that they should ask a fourth person in the room, who settled the point. When the players had left, the fourth man said, 'What led you to refer them to me who am a stranger to you?' The reply was, 'Well, I saw you this morning pivoting on your left foot on the golf course. That is a fault of those who learned their golf in boyhood. I heard you speak and knew you were English. Blackheath was about the only place in England where golf would be learnt 40 years ago and I thought it probable you would know the neighborhood.' "The old gentleman's name was Joseph Bell. . ."

[loveblackculture]

TYPES OF DATES EVERY COUPLE SHOULD TRY:

1. PICNIC DATE

There is something special and free about the outdoors. Pack up some food and drinks and a leso, find a spot and have fun

2. WALK DATE

Make time to just take a walk as you bond. Walk for long as you hold hands, laugh, bump shoulder to shoulder. You need no money for this

3. ELEGANT DATE

Go all out. Gentleman, ask her out to an expensive, classy venue. Give her a chance to dress up. She will feel special, smiling as you romance her; she wearing her fashionable dress

4. DANCE DATE

Find a place where good music is played or dance is taught and go there as a couple. Salsa, lingala, afro, twist, benga; go to a place where you will sweat, groove and get down

5. IMPROMPTU DATE

Dates don't have to be pre-planned. Be spontenous sometimes, drop everything and go somewhere as a couple for some quality time

6. MOVIE DATE

Go to the cinema. Movies bring out emotions

7. DOUBLE DATE

Go out on a date with another couple close to you. This will give you a chance to celebrate love and talk couple to couple. Your love will grow stronger

8. COMPASSION DATE

There are many people in society to bless. You and your partner, find a children's home, an elderly home, a hospital or someone in need and together go spend time with them. God will bless your love

9. CANDLE-LIGHT DINNER DATE

There is something romantic about looking into each other's eyes in dim candle light. Make it special. Romance is sweet

10. SPECIAL MOMENT DATE

This is when you celebrate big as a couple a special moment like Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation or Promotion. Never forget these moments

11. MAKE-UP DATE

If things between you two haven't been going well. Make effort to save your love by planning a good date. A date provides a good setting to allow you two to talk and get back to deep love

12. LUNCH DATE

Since you work at different jobs, sometimes meet up and have a couple's lunch for an hour or so

13. OLD LOVE DATE

Dates are not for young love only. Sadly, as lovers stay in a relationship/marriage, the dates become fewer as they go through the motions. No matter how long you've been together, step outside your everyday responsibilities and go for a date to rekindle and sustain the excitement

14. SPORTS DATE

Is your favorite football club, rugby team, basketball team, golfer playing? Is it the safari rally, athletics? Go out for dates as a couple where you can scream, cheer and go wild. You two will connect more

15. FRIENDS DATE

Have a barbeque, hook up with friends, throw a party. Organize something as a couple where your love will be celebrated in the presence of close friends

16. TRAVEL DATE

Pack your bags and travel. Break the monotony and as a couple drive, fly, sail to a place you've never been. Experience new attractions together. Your love will never be boring this way

16. STAY AT HOME DATE

Or lock yourself in the house. Not to work or do chores. But to switch off everything and concentrate on each other. Cook together, eat together, make memories for two

[tmctales]

The Connection PT2

Chapter Two: Unraveling Secrets

Over the weeks that followed his first golfing experience at "The Connection," Francis Green became a regular member of the club. The allure of the innovative golf course and the camaraderie he found among the members kept him coming back for more. Every weekend, he eagerly arrived at the clubhouse, his excitement growing with each step he took toward the first tee.

As Francis settled into his new golfing routine, he couldn't help but notice a peculiar charm about the club. It seemed to hold secrets within its walls—whispers of stories from years past, legends of the club's founding members, and hidden mysteries that intrigued his imagination.

One evening, after an invigorating round with his newfound golfing buddies, Francis was drawn to the vintage wing of the clubhouse. There, amidst sepia-toned photographs and old trophies, he encountered an elderly member, Mr Charles McGregor, seated in a cosy armchair.

Mr McGregor was a distinguished gentleman, his eyes sparkling with wisdom and the weight of years gone by. Intrigued by the aura of history surrounding him, Francis approached and introduced himself. With a warm smile, the elder golfer invited Francis to sit.

"Ah, young man, it's a pleasure to meet you," Mr McGregor said in a voice tinged with a touch of nostalgia. "I see you've taken quite a liking to 'The Connection.'"

Francis nodded enthusiastically. "It's an incredible place with such a rich history. I can't help but wonder about the stories and memories hidden within these walls."

A glint of amusement danced in Mr McGregor's eyes as he began to share some tales from the club's past. He spoke of the founding members who had come together in the 1990s with a vision to create a golfing haven that merged tradition with innovation. They had sought to develop a course where technology and the spirit of the sport coexisted harmoniously.

"But there's more to this place than meets the eye," Mr McGregor hinted, leaning closer. "There are rumours of hidden chambers beneath the clubhouse, filled with golfing treasures and secrets waiting to be unravelled."

Intrigued, Francis's curiosity piqued. "Hidden chambers? What kind of treasures are we talking about?"

Mr McGregor chuckled, relishing the anticipation he saw in Francis's eyes. "Legend has it that within those chambers, there are ancient golf clubs wielded by golfing legends of the past. There are golf balls that are said to carry the luck of the Gods and putters that possess an otherworldly precision."

Francis's mind swirled with fascination. "Is there any truth to these tales? Have you ever been inside those hidden chambers?"

The elder golfer leaned back, his expression turning more serious. "I have indeed been inside, but the chambers are well-guarded and only accessible to a select few. It is said that there's a special test one must pass to gain entry—a test of both skill and character."

Determined to uncover the mysteries of "The Connection," Francis's heart raced with excitement. He couldn't resist the allure of the challenge that lay ahead. He felt a deep connection to the club as if it held a special place for him in its history.

As the night grew darker, Mr McGregor shared more stories, tales of golfers who had braved the hidden chambers and emerged transformed, their games elevated to new heights.

The stories ignited a fire within Francis, and he knew that he had to pursue this adventure, to test himself against the secrets of the club.

With a newfound determination, Francis bid farewell to Mr McGregor and headed home. As he lay in bed that night, visions of the hidden chambers and the treasures they might hold danced in his dreams. Little did he know that his journey at "The Connection" was about to take an extraordinary turn—one that would lead him to uncharted realms of golfing legendary and self-discovery.

Written on

August 3rd, 2023

4.30pm (United Kingdom Time)

TMarsh-Connors©

[ozzyscollectiblehub]

Golf’s Young Lions: Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi, and Dow Finsterwald — The Golden Age Pioneers

In the 1950s and 60s, golf saw the rise of a new generation of dynamic, charismatic players who helped shape the game into what it is today. At the forefront of this revolution were three young lions: Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi, and Dow Finsterwald. Together, they brought an electric mix of talent, personality, and competitiveness to the sport, changing golf’s image and paving the way for future stars.

In this blog, we’ll dive into the lives and careers of Palmer, Venturi, and Finsterwald — three players who forever left their mark on golf’s golden age.

Arnold Palmer: The King of Golf

When people think of golf legends, Arnold Palmer is often the first name that comes to mind. Known as “The King,” Palmer wasn’t just a great golfer — he was a beloved figure who revolutionized the sport with his bold playing style and approachable, blue-collar charm.

Palmer’s rise to prominence began in the 1950s. After winning the 1954 U.S. Amateur, he turned professional and quickly became one of the game’s most exciting players. His go-for-broke style, where he aggressively attacked courses with his powerful drives and fearless shot-making, won him countless fans. Golf was often seen as a gentleman’s game played by elites, but Palmer’s humble background and everyman demeanor resonated with the public, helping to broaden the sport’s appeal.

Palmer’s first major triumph came in the 1958 Masters, which he won at age 28. Over the next several years, he became the face of the Masters Tournament, winning it a total of four times (1958, 1960, 1962, 1964). He also secured a U.S. Open victory in 1960, coming from seven strokes behind in the final round, one of the most thrilling finishes in the history of golf. In addition, Palmer won the British Open twice, in 1961 and 1962, helping to revitalize American interest in the event.

Palmer’s impact on golf went beyond the course. With the help of pioneering sports agent Mark McCormack, he became one of the first athletes to transcend his sport, endorsing products and becoming a global icon. His army of loyal fans, affectionately known as “Arnie’s Army,” followed him everywhere, making him one of the most popular and marketable figures in sports history.

Ken Venturi: The Master of Comebacks

While Arnold Palmer was known for his aggressive style and fan-friendly persona, Ken Venturi built his reputation as a cerebral player and one of golf’s ultimate competitors. Venturi’s story is one of perseverance, battling not only the challenges of the golf course but also personal setbacks, including injuries and health issues.

Venturi, a San Francisco native, first rose to prominence as an amateur. In 1956, while still an amateur, he nearly won the Masters, leading after three rounds but finishing second behind Jackie Burke Jr. After turning professional, Venturi’s career looked destined for greatness. He racked up several PGA Tour wins and earned a reputation as one of the smoothest swingers in the game.

Venturi’s crowning achievement came in the 1964 U.S. Open, where he delivered one of the most dramatic and courageous performances in golf history. Battling intense heat and physical exhaustion, Venturi played 36 holes on the final day of the tournament at Congressional Country Club in Washington, D.C. Against the odds, he shot a final-round 70 and won by four strokes, securing his only major title. Venturi later revealed that doctors had warned him about the risk of permanent damage if he continued to play in the extreme heat, but he refused to quit, determined to etch his name into history.

The 1964 U.S. Open solidified Venturi’s place in the annals of golf as a gritty competitor who could overcome the toughest circumstances. His story is one of persistence and resilience, and his commentary career post-playing days made him a respected voice in the sport for decades.

Dow Finsterwald: Consistency and Class

Although perhaps less heralded than Palmer and Venturi, Dow Finsterwald was a key figure in the golden era of golf, known for his consistency and sportsmanship. A native of Athens, Ohio, Finsterwald turned professional in 1951 and quickly established himself as one of the most reliable performers on tour.

Finsterwald was a model of consistency throughout his career, amassing 11 PGA Tour victories. His breakthrough came in the 1958 PGA Championship, where he claimed his only major title. This victory was historic not just for Finsterwald but for the game itself — it was the first PGA Championship to be played in stroke play format, as the event had previously been a match play tournament. Finsterwald’s adaptability and precision made him a natural fit for the stroke play era, where consistency and mental fortitude were key.

In addition to his individual success, Finsterwald was known as a team player. He played in four Ryder Cup matches for the United States and served as the team captain in 1977. His dedication to the game went beyond personal accolades, as he worked to grow and promote the sport during its rise to mainstream popularity.

What set Finsterwald apart was his sportsmanship and class, traits that earned him the admiration of his peers and fans alike. While he may not have had the star power of Palmer or the dramatic flair of Venturi, Finsterwald’s steady excellence and professionalism left an indelible mark on the game.

The Legacy of Golf’s Young Lions

Together, Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi, and Dow Finsterwald formed a triumvirate of talent that helped golf transition from a niche pastime to a global sport. Each brought something unique to the game: Palmer with his charisma and bold play, Venturi with his resilience and will to win, and Finsterwald with his steady hand and unwavering professionalism.

Their influence extended beyond the course as well. Palmer’s business acumen and marketability set the stage for future generations of golfers to thrive financially, while Venturi’s broadcasting career made him one of the most respected voices in the game. Finsterwald’s dedication to the sport helped usher in a new era of consistency and professionalism, influencing players who would come after him.

In the golden age of golf, these three young lions not only dominated the fairways and greens but also captivated the hearts and minds of fans. Their legacy endures today, as they paved the way for the modern game and helped shape golf into the globally beloved sport it is.

The era of Arnold Palmer, Ken Venturi, and Dow Finsterwald was a transformative time for golf. Together, they pushed the sport into the mainstream, thrilling fans with their talent, charm, and passion. Each player brought a distinct style to the game, and their contributions helped shape golf’s golden age. Whether it was Palmer’s charisma, Venturi’s grit, or Finsterwald’s consistency, these young lions left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire golfers today.

As golf evolves and new stars emerge, the contributions of these pioneers will forever remain an essential part of the game’s rich history. They weren’t just golfers — they were trailblazers who transformed the sport with their skill, heart, and love for the game.

[sigappurojakal]

TYPES OF DATES EVERY COUPLE SHOULD TRY:1. PICNIC DATEThere is something special and free about the outdoors. Pack up some food and drinks and a leso, find a spot and have fun 2. WALK DATE Make time to just take a walk as you bond. Walk for long as you hold hands, laugh, bump shoulder to shoulder. You need no money for this3. ELEGANT DATE Go all out. Gentleman, ask her out to an expensive, classy venue. Give her a chance to dress up. She will feel special, smiling as you romance her; she wearing her fashionable dress4. DANCE DATE Find a place where good music is played or dance is taught and go there as a couple. Salsa, lingala, afro, twist, benga; go to a place where you will sweat, groove and get down5. IMPROMPTU DATE Dates don't have to be pre-planned. Be spontenous sometimes, drop everything and go somewhere as a couple for some quality time6. MOVIE DATE Go to the cinema. Movies bring out emotions7. DOUBLE DATE Go out on a date with another couple close to you. This will give you a chance to celebrate love and talk couple to couple. Your love will grow stronger8. COMPASSION DATE There are many people in society to bless. You and your partner, find a children's home, an elderly home, a hospital or someone in need and together go spend time with them. God will bless your love9. CANDLE-LIGHT DINNER DATE There is something romantic about looking into each other's eyes in dim candle light. Make it special. Romance is sweet10. SPECIAL MOMENT DATE This is when you celebrate big as a couple a special moment like Birthday, Anniversary, Graduation or Promotion. Never forget these moments11. MAKE-UP DATE If things between you two haven't been going well. Make effort to save your love by planning a good date. A date provides a good setting to allow you two to talk and get back to deep love12. LUNCH DATE Since you work at different jobs, sometimes meet up and have a couple's lunch for an hour or so13. OLD LOVE DATE Dates are not for young love only. Sadly, as lovers stay in a relationship/marriage, the dates become fewer as they go through the motions. No matter how long you've been together, step outside your everyday responsibilities and go for a date to rekindle and sustain the excitement14. SPORTS DATE Is your favorite football club, rugby team, basketball team, golfer playing? Is it the safari rally, athletics? Go out for dates as a couple where you can scream, cheer and go wild. You two will connect more15. FRIENDS DATE Have a barbeque, hook up with friends, throw a party. Organize something as a couple where your love will be celebrated in the presence of close friends16. TRAVEL DATE Pack your bags and travel. Break the monotony and as a couple drive, fly, sail to a place you've never been. Experience new attractions together. Your love will never be boring this way16. STAY AT HOME DATEOr lock yourself in the house. Not to work or do chores. But to switch off everything and concentrate on each other. Cook together, eat together, make memories for two

[petnews2day]

“GET THE F*** OUTTA HERE” – Golfers Just About Killed Their Papaw With The “Fake Snake On A String” Prank

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/1stTg

“GET THE F*** OUTTA HERE” – Golfers Just About Killed Their Papaw With The “Fake Snake On A String” Prank

There’s a fine line between pranking your papaw and elder abuse. The golfers in this video are riding that line with this “fake snake on a string” prank. Officially, it’s a little cruel to do something like this to an older gentleman who is just trying to enjoy a day out at the golf course. […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/1stTg #ExoticPetNews

[in-the-cup-golf]

 Why In the Cup for Golf Leagues in the USA?

Step into the core of golfing excitement with a focused quest for Golf Leagues in the USA. Delve into the unique company, match, and district spirit that characterize the American golfing adventure.

Our journey begins by unraveling the mystery behind the question: "Why In the Cup for Golf Leagues in the USA?" Find the passion and reasons that make these leagues an integral part of the vibrant American golfing community.

Joining “In the Cup” is like hitting a hole-in-one for your social life – where camaraderie and competition tee off for a perfect match!

 Golf Leagues in the USA

Golf leagues in the USA are a famous way for golfers of all skill levels to contend and mingle. There are leagues for men, women, seniors, juniors, and even families.

You can find them at golf courses, country clubs, and other recreational facilities. It's a great way to meet new people, improve your skills, and have some fun on the greens.

 Benefits Of Joining Gold League

Here are some of the benefits of joining a golf league.

Improved golf skills: Playing in a league can help you improve your golf skills by providing regular practice and competition.

Socialization: Leagues offer a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends who share your love of golf.

Fun and competition: Leagues can be a lot of fun and provide a sense of competition.

Handicap tracking: Many leagues track handicaps, which allow golfers of various skill levels to vie on an even playing area.

Variety of formats: Leagues offer a variety of formats, such as match play, stroke play, and scramble, which keeps things interesting.

Affordable: Leagues are a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy golf.

There are several types of golf leagues in the USA, including.

Professional leagues: The PGA Tour is the top professional golf league in the USA, while the Korn Ferry Tour is the developmental tour.

Amateur leagues: There are many amateur leagues for golfers of all skill levels. Golf enthusiasts can explore a variety of leagues available at both public and private golf courses.

Corporate leagues: Many companies have corporate golf leagues for their employees.

Interclub leagues: These leagues consist of teams from various golf courses.

Online leagues: There are a number of online golf leagues that allow golfers to compete against each other from anywhere in the world.

If you are interested in joining a golf league, you can search online or contact your local golf course for more information.

 Popular golf leagues in the USA

Here are some of the most popular golf leagues in the USA.

USGA Leagues: The United States Golf Association (USGA) offers a variety of leagues for golfers of all skill levels, including men's, women's, senior, junior, and family leagues.

PGA of America Leagues: The PGA of America offers a variety of leagues for golfers of all skill levels, including men's, women's, senior, junior, and family leagues.

National Golf League (NGL): The NGL is a professional golf league for men and women.

World Long Drive Association (WLDA): The WLDA is a professional golf league for long drivers.

American Junior Golf Association (AJGA): The AJGA is a junior golf league for boys and girls ages 12-19.

 Match-Day Frenzy: Decoding the Intense Competition in USA Golf Leagues

The sun rises over the meticulously manicured fairways, tossing an orange glow across the putting green. A real tension hangs in the air, broken only by the chirping of birds and the rhythmic swish of practice swings. It is match day in a USA golf league, and the air is electric.

For many, golf may seem like a leisurely pastime, a gentleman's sport where decorum reigns supreme. But step onto the course during a league match, and you'll see another side of the game. 

Here, the contest takes center stage, transforming the serene landscape into a battleground of skill, strategy, and relentless focus.

 What drives this intense competition?

Many factors contribute to the match-day frenzy in USA golf leagues.

1. The quest for personal glory: League rankings offer players a tangible way to measure their progress and compare themselves to their peers. Each stroke shaved off a scorecard fuels the desire to climb the ladder and declare bragging rights as the league champion.

2. Team spirit: Many leagues operate with a team format, adding another layer of competition and camaraderie. Players unite under a shared banner, strategizing jointly and celebrating each other's victories. The collective pursuit of success creates a powerful bond and fuels a fierce determination to win for the team.

3. Tradition and legacy: Golf leagues often boast a long and rich history passed down from generation to generation. This legacy invests a sense of pride and responsibility in players who carry the torch of merit and strive to uphold the league's competitive spirit.

4. The thrill of the chase: League play offers golfers a consistent opportunity to test their skills against evenly-matched opponents. The unpredictable nature of the game, where a single stroke can determine the outcome, keeps players on the edge of their seats, pushing them to perform at their peak under pressure.

5. The lure of camaraderie: League members forge lasting friendships, supporting each other through victories and defeats. This company adds a deeper dimension to the competition, making the experience more significant and fulfilling.

 Beyond the scorecard

The intensity of match-day competition extends beyond the individual player or team. It creates a vibrant atmosphere that attracts spectators and fosters a strong sense of community.

Supporters cheer their favorites, players trade friendly banter, and the spirit of the game fills the air. This electric atmosphere adds another layer of excitement and pressure, further fueling the competitive fire.

 Showcasing the true spirit of athletic competition

It's a testament to the human desire to push boundaries, test limits, and strive for excellence. From the meticulous preparation to the final putt, each match day is a journey of passion, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of victory.

Here are some additional points to consider.

Match-day intensity varies across leagues, with some focusing more on friendly competition than others.

The presence of sponsorships and prize money can further elevate the competitive atmosphere.

Technological advancements, like live scoring and online leaderboards, contribute to the real-time drama of the matches.

The mental game plays a vital role in match-day success, with players employing various strategies to stay focused and manage pressure.

 Conclusion

If you're looking to witness the true passion and intensity of USA golf, don't miss the opportunity to experience the match-day frenzy firsthand with “In the Cup”. You'll be captivated by the athleticism, the camaraderie, and the sheer love for the game that shines through on the course.

Discover the ultimate online hub for golf enthusiasts – a Golf Social Site where you can connect, share, and swing into the vibrant world of golfing camaraderie. Navigate the extensive Golf Listings to find the perfect course, club, or equipment. Your one-stop destination for all things is “In The Cup”.

So what are you waiting for? Click the “In The Cup” website now and know each and everything!

[annahayness]

Swing Smart, Spend Smart: Your Guide to Budget-Friendly Golfing Nearby

Golf, often referred to as the gentleman's game, is not just a sport; it's an experience. The lush green landscapes, the rhythmic swing of the club, and the thrill of hitting the perfect shot make it a beloved pastime for many. However, as much as we love golf, sometimes our wallets don't quite share the same sentiment. But fear not, fellow golfers! This guide is here to help you discover the joy of golfing without breaking the bank. Get ready to uncover the secrets of last-minute golf deals, affordable courses nearby, and strategies for discounted green fees.

Last-Minute Golf: A Hole-in-One Opportunity

Ever felt the sudden urge to play a round of golf without prior planning? Last-minute golf offers the perfect solution. Courses often have unbooked slots, especially during weekdays. Grab this opportunity and enjoy a spontaneous game while benefiting from lower rates.

Affordable Golf Near Me: Unearthing Hidden Gems

You don't need to travel far to find a budget-friendly golf course. Use Last Minute Golf as the main resource to discover lesser-known courses nearby that offer excellent experiences without the hefty price tag.

Decoding Cheap Golf Rates

Understanding golf rates can be as tricky as a challenging fairway. Look for courses that offer twilight rates, allowing you to play during the quieter hours of the day at reduced costs. Additionally, some courses offer discounts for seniors, students, or local residents.

Teeing Off on Discounted Green Fees

Discounted green fees are like finding a rare birdie. Keep an eye out for special promotions, loyalty programs, or bundle deals that can significantly reduce your overall expenses.

The Art of Budget-Friendly Golfing

Golfing smart doesn't mean compromising on the experience. Opt for walking instead of using a cart to save on rental fees and get some extra exercise. Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid clubhouse prices.

Playing More, Paying Less: Membership Perks

Consider becoming a member of a golf club. While this might involve an initial investment, the long-term benefits include access to exclusive events, discounted rates, and a sense of belonging to a golfing community.

DIY Golf: Creating a Backyard Putting Green

Can't always make it to the course? Bring the course to your backyard by creating a DIY putting green. It's a fun project that can help you practice your short game without spending a fortune.

Swinging Through Seasons: Off-Peak Advantage

Playing golf during the off-peak season can be a game-changer for your wallet. Courses often offer lower rates during these times, and you get to enjoy a quieter atmosphere on the greens.

Mastering Your Swing on a Shoestring Budget

Improving your swing doesn't have to mean expensive lessons. Take advantage of online tutorials and practice drills to enhance your skills without emptying your wallet.

Borrow Instead of Buy: Renting Equipment

Golf equipment can be pricey, especially for beginners. Instead of splurging on brand-new gear, consider renting clubs and other equipment until you're sure you're committed to the game.

The 19th Hole: Savvy Spending at the Clubhouse

After a satisfying round of golf, treat yourself at the clubhouse without overspending. Opt for budget-friendly menu options and skip the expensive cocktails.

Slicing Costs: Tips for Avoiding Extra Charges

Before booking a tee time, inquire about any additional charges that might catch you off guard. Knowing about cart fees, caddy charges, and other extras beforehand can save you from unexpected expenses.

Golfing Community: Sharing Cost-Saving Insights

Connect with fellow golfers to share tips and tricks for saving money on the greens. Online forums and social media groups can be treasure troves of valuable information about budget-friendly golfing.

Practicing Patience: Waiting for Sales

Just like waiting for the perfect swing, patience is key when it comes to snagging deals on golf equipment or apparel. Keep an eye out for sales and discounts, especially during the end-of-season clearance.

Conclusion: Your Affordable Golfing Journey

Golfing on a budget is not just about finding the lowest prices; it's about enjoying the game while being mindful of your spending. With a little research, creativity, and a willingness to explore new options, you can savor every swing without worrying about the cost.

[kpkpkiran]

Andrew Knott Vancouver

Golf Course Etiquette for those new to Golf

Respect the pace of play

As a golfer with a single-digit handicap, I understand the importance of respecting the pace of play on the course. Golf is a gentleman's game, and one of its most important traditions is to maintain a reasonable pace of play. This not only helps to keep the round moving smoothly but also allows other players to enjoy the course as well. Whether you're a scratch golfer or just starting out, it's crucial to be aware of your position on the course and make an effort to keep up with the group in front of you. This can involve things like being ready to hit your shot when it's your turn, taking only what you need in your golf bag, and being mindful of the time you spend looking for lost balls. By doing your part to respect the pace of play, you'll help to create a more enjoyable experience for everyone on the course.

Follow golf cart rules

First and foremost, always make sure that you park your golf cart on the designated path or in the designated area when not in use. This helps to keep the course in good condition and prevents damage to the grass. Additionally, it's important to keep the cart on the cart path whenever possible, as this reduces the wear and tear on the fairways and greens.

When you're on the course, it's also important to be mindful of your speed. Golf carts should be driven at a slow and safe pace, especially when you're near other players or in areas where there is a lot of foot traffic. If you need to cross the fairway, always make sure to look both ways and yield to other players.

Finally, it's a good idea to be considerate of others when using a golf cart. For example, try to limit the number of people who ride in the cart, and avoid making loud noises that could disturb other players. Additionally, be mindful of the space around you when parking the cart, and make sure that you don't block other players or impede their shots.

By following these common golf cart rules, you'll help to create a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone on the course. Remember, golf is a game of traditions, and by respecting these traditions, we can all enjoy the game to the fullest.

Replenish sand bunkers

Let's talk about why it's important to replenish sand bunkers. Over time, the sand in bunkers can become compacted and hard, making it more difficult for golfers to play their shots. Replenishing the sand helps to keep the bunkers in good condition, and ensures that golfers are able to hit their shots the way they're meant to be played.

When replenishing sand bunkers, it's important to follow a few simple rules. Firstly, always use a rake to level out the sand after you've played your shot. This helps to keep the bunker in good condition and makes it easier for the next golfer to play their shot. Additionally, avoid standing in the bunker or walking on the sand, as this can also cause compaction and damage to the bunker.

If you see that a bunker is in need of replenishment, it's best to inform a course marshal or staff member. They will be able to properly maintain the bunker and ensure that it's in good condition for the next golfer.

Repair ball marks on the green

This is a crucial aspect of golf etiquette, and it's essential that all golfers understand how to properly repair ball marks in order to maintain the quality of the greens.

Ball marks are caused when a golf ball lands on the green and create a small indentation or depression. Over time, these marks can accumulate and cause the green to become uneven, making it more difficult for golfers to putt. By repairing ball marks, you can help to keep the green in good condition and ensure that everyone has a fair and enjoyable experience on the course.

To repair a ball mark, you'll need a ball mark repair tool, which can usually be found near the first tee or in the pro shop. Simply insert the tool into the center of the ball mark, gently press down, and then lift the tool straight up. Repeat this process a few times, until the ball mark has been smoothed out. It's also important to remember to repair not just your own ball marks, but any marks you come across on the green. By doing so, you'll be showing respect for the course and other golfers, and helping to maintain the quality of the greens for everyone's enjoyment.

In conclusion, by repairing ball marks properly and consistently, you'll help to keep the greens in good condition and provide a fair and enjoyable experience for all golfers. So the next time you find yourself on the green, take a moment to repair any ball marks you come across. Your fellow golfers will thank you for it!

Avoid distracting other players

Golf is a gentleman's game, and it's essential that all players show respect for each other and follow proper etiquette.

When playing golf, it's important to be mindful of your actions and avoid doing anything that could distract other players. Some common distractions include talking too loudly, making excessive noise, or moving around unnecessarily while others are preparing to hit their shots.

It's also important to avoid talking or making noise while someone is about to hit their shot. This can be very distracting and can cause the player to miss their shot. So, it's best to stay still and be quiet until the shot has been hit.

Another way to avoid distracting other players is to be mindful of your pace of play. Slow play can be very distracting, and it's important to keep up with the group in front of you and be ready to hit your shot when it's your turn. If you're playing in a group, try to keep up with the group in front of you, and avoid spending too much time looking for lost balls.

In conclusion, by avoiding distractions and showing respect for other players, you'll help to ensure that everyone has a fair and enjoyable experience on the golf course. So next time you're out on the course, keep these simple etiquette tips in mind and help to maintain the dignity and respect of the game.

[infantisimo]

All in the Details: ‘Ponytail Gopi’ and His Annual Party at the Kodai Club Badminton Court

1990s, Kodaikanal

As far as Christmases go in Kodaikanal the only one of note was the party organised by Gopi. Ponytail Gopi as he was known, was a charismatic chap; a chef in his own right and someone with a flair for the elaborate. His party at the Badminton Court was quite an extraordinary effort and thoroughly enjoyable. It was a sit-down affair. Dixie Prince and I were in charge of just one thing: Serviettes! Not knowing what to do, we went to Margaret Sekhran and she lent us a book.

Well, the serviettes had to be starched, to begin with. Then the book proceeded to illustrate how they were to be folded. These operations varied with the nature of the artist’s intentions: from producing a peeled banana, there were detailed descriptions on how to make a swan. There were drawings, with complete instructions, of cut and sculpted pineapples and some floral stuff, that resembled pansies, were on offer too. 

It was great fun. My clumsy fingers were all over the place but Dixie sweetly helped out and we soon got a respectable table going, full of different servette designs. Very fashionable indeed!

Dinner was served in stages; the food, drink and ambience nothing short of par excellence. I forget what the dessert was but it was undoubtedly something exotic. That was by far and away the best Christmas dinner I have had in Kodaikanal. There were one or two at the golf club but those were more spirited affairs and I doubt anybody remembers the food. Personally, I don’t think there was any…

Otherwise, it was either lunch or dinner in people’s houses and one extravaganza on my estate in Pethuparai. That ended quite wildly at Peggy Rustomji’s place, where her son, Reshad, had insisted we end Christmas day. There were no bison to contend with then and the few elephants that made occasional forays in the area prudently left us alone.

Despite all the derring-do of Santa’s past, the one I remember best is my first memory of Christmas.

Brandy, Pachyderms and a Pile of Dung: Santa at the Annamalai Club

Valparai, 1973

It was the day of the annual Christmas party in Valparai. Dr Benjamin was slated to be Santa Claus. The president of the Annamalai Club, GP Reddy, was elated; Dr Benjamin, a well-rounded gentleman, would make the perfect Father Christmas. It was a beautiful evening and planters were playing tennis and golf under a sky that heralded the end of the monsoon.

At the last instant, however, Dr Benjamin called the president to say he couldn’t take on the main role as he had a stomach ache. Playing Santa in front of forty or so kids of assorted ages is a daunting task. Who would volunteer to be Santa at the last minute? The beleaguered president rushed around in a frenzy. As further inducement, a bottle of brandy was offered. Still, there didn’t seem to be any candidates. 

Finally, he induced one of the golfers, in the last throes of a bad round, to quit the game. The brandy was sufficient temptation, and, with the help of two fellow golfers, the new Santa demolished the bottle. Santa, who was Aban Sethna’s cousin, was dressed and ready–traditional red robes, white whiskers flowing down to the chest and coming to rest over a large pillow strapped under the garment–when Santa began to raise a request.

‘I didn’t get my full share of the brandy,’ stated the worthy, saying that he wasn’t going to be Santa under these circumstances. 

The flabbergasted president, who incidentally was the doppelganger of Omar Sharif, protested loudly—but as the would-be Santa had started disrobing, he immediately sent for another bottle of the much-desired amber fluid. 

Fully sated, Santa left the changing room at last, making his way across the cricket pitch with his friends. A slanting sun silhouetted a large object looming on the mud road to the Masonic Lodge. A horrified Santa found himself suddenly confronted by a huge elephant. Moreover, it had a chair strapped to its back! 

By then a crowd from Valparai town had assembled around the elephant: kids gesticulated and squealed in delight, while a slender mahout tried to keep them at bay with a series of yells and threatening gestures.

Realising that Santa was never going to mount the pachyderm on his own steam, the villagers got together. Lifting the flummoxed Santa, they pushed him onto the chair atop the elephant. Nobody knows whose fault it was, but the chair hadn’t been fastened properly and flipped over to the other side, taking Santa with it. 

Lying sprawled on his belly, rocking on the pillow stuffed under his belt, Santa couldn’t even utter a curse. The wind blown from his sails, he was hoisted, once again, atop the towering beast. 

They had miscalculated yet again. Santa found himself astride the coarse hair that sticks out from an elephant’s back. It was like riding a porcupine! Before he could protest, the elephant began its interminable journey (all of 500 yards) to the club house above.

But the surfeit of alcohol had finally kicked in. A weary and battered Santa put his elbows on the backrest of the chair, and fell asleep to the swaying gait of the elephant. , insisting that he wouldn’t get off the elephant at the entrance of the club. There was pandemonium as the elephant entered the club and, annoyed at the treatment being meted out, discharged a voluminous quantity of steaming dung.

The kids insisted this was the best Christmas ever and, after the presents were distributed, Santa was the life of the party!

A few years later, in the coffee belt of South Coorg, the same Santa, now acknowledged as Saint Nick himself, was called to perform above and beyond the call of duty. There was no elephant this time and the committee of Coorg ladies and gentlemen decided that Santa would make his appearance on roller skates. Well, I suppose everyone is entitled to surmise how that ended!

A Quiet Christmas

Circa 1949, Darjeeling

By the time the bells of St. Andrews struck four times, it was dark. There weren’t too many people in the town square, making it look even bigger than usual. It was bitterly cold too. Overcoats, scarves, gloves and felt hats made it difficult to recognise anyone: they looked huge in the pullovers and cardigans used as extra padding.

St Andrews overlooked Victoria Park, which is now a large building for political use. On the other side it towers over The Gymkhana Club which, in turn, overlooks the Government House, used by the Governor of Bengal during the summer months. The Capitol Theatre and St. Andrews church, at opposite ends of the town, are iconic buildings, recognised by anyone who has visited Darjeeling. 

I was very young at the time but the Planters, who were mostly British then, were the dominant socialites. The Planter’s Club was the place to be for social recognition and, the Gymkhana Club, for the Queen’s birthday dance. 

Of course, the Gymkhana Club did more than host the Queens dinner and dance party. It had tennis courts and a skating rink the size of two tennis courts. The wooden flooring was Burma Teak and made for a wonderful surface for roller skates to glide over. It was the destination for the hoi polloi. The skating rink housed a bandstand where waltzes, tangoes and foxtrots were played and skaters would circle the floor in tune to the music. Those days Georgie Banks (Louis Bank’s father) would switch between the clarinet and the trumpet even as old man Coutinho sawed away at the violin. The drums were the domain of Mr. Wilson. 

I still remember Edgar Cleaver playing the accordion through the early and mid-nineteen fifties.

My mother never spent Christmas in Kodai. It was too quiet for her! She was the life and soul of parties at home in Darjeeling and later at the Coonoor Club, playing the piano, singing, and dancing… she was an excellent dancer.

Tonight, there was no discernible breeze. Yet the cold, coming off the mountain range, chilled one to the marrow. Some folks were busy scratching their noses, fingers, and other assorted extremities in an attempt to ward off the bane of winter; literally doing St. Vitus’ dance to get temporary relief from itchy Chilblains!

Every alternate year the skies chose to remain overcast. It wasn’t as bitterly cold then, under an overcast sky but, as it turned completely dark, snow started falling. It was never very heavy. Tiny flakes floated down, each with its own distinctive design, until a sudden flurry turned everything pristine white. 

Crunching through the white carpet, holding my mother’s hand, I was excited. Muriel Ray had invited us for Christmas dinner and my mother was on a last-minute mission to buy presents. Some shops were open and Habib Mallik, on Chowrasta square, was the destination. 

It was warm inside. Fur coats and an assortment of warm garments, hanging from the ceiling, left a musty smell within the confines. Trinkets from Tibet were displayed on large tables and collapsible walnut tables, carved intricately, from Kashmir took pride of place. There were thick Tibetan carpets covering the walls, with a multitude of designs and there was even a hookah in a far corner. I think it was for sale.

With an experienced eye, my mother took in all the wares on offer. I wasn’t aware of what she finally settled on because a large foldable knife had caught my attention. With all the curiosity of a four-year-old, I stared at this wonderful invention, wondering what marvellous things I could do with it. Before I could ask her to buy it for me, she had finished her purchases and dragged me out of the shop.

The disappointment was soon forgotten. Snow was still falling and, in the silence, faint Christmas Carrols came from a rag-tag bunch of school children. A girl in front carried a hurricane lantern and six or seven behind joined her to sing “Ave Maria” softly into the night. There was nothing rag-tag about their singing; it sounded as though the angels were amongst us.

We passed other groups on our way home. In the dark, trampling over a carpet of snow, the enchantment of hearing “Silent Night” was certainly the nearest thing to heaven I had ever experienced… and my mother opened her lips, her beautiful voice floating over the whitened earth… and I thought I was in heaven.

At the entrance to our doorway another group awaited our arrival. As soon as they saw us they burst out with ‘Happy Birthday’. I clutched my mother’s hand tighter. She was twenty-eight years old that Christmas day. To me, she was very old and I was afraid I wouldn’t have her with me much longer. Intuitively, my mother turned to me and told me to hurry and get ready for the evening party. 

The nightmare of mortality wiped away, we arrived at the huge hacienda that housed Muriel and her daughter Jennifer. The extensive lawn had turned white, and the tiny pond in the centre, frozen solid. In the years to follow that Christmas of 1949, I was to become familiar with the hacienda. After the Ray’s left, it housed the Plant family from Burma, before being converted into a communist commune!

The sitting room was large and there was a roaring fire, which did more to light up the room than the dim electric bulbs overhead. There was an entire goose, still steaming, on the table and a white swan hanging from the rafters. It was enough to give me goosebumps. Turning to my father, I pointed to it and he said it was a ‘khoya bag’, which didn’t make any sense to me at the time.

After the goose was carved, the stuffing attacked and all the crackling chewed, aunt Muriel pulled a cord from under the overhead swan. As the belly ripped, confetti drizzled all over the dining table. There was an occasional thud and my parents reached out to discover what surprise they held. I got into the act and quickly discovered a tiny car. It was a model of a Hillman Minx.

It had two doors which opened. Inside there were seats, a steering wheel and a dashboard. Dad looked at it and told me it was an expensive Dinky Toy. I treasured it for many years. I was drowsy by then and fell asleep. I don’t remember how I got home but was told later that dad had carried me back. 

My dreams of delicious marzipan, English toffees and Dundee bread were interrupted when I remembered Jenny kissing me and wishing me a Merry Christmas. I awoke rubbing my cheek. After all, which four-year-old wants to be kissed, Christmas or no Christmas!

She had also added, “this is specially for your mother’s birthday.” My mother was a Christmas baby and this was the first of many, many Christmas memories I have. It was a very special one indeed.

[thenewgentlemangolfer]

Three Pints Down

Farewell Mr Barnes

Most will know and remember Brian Barnes as the man who beat Jack Nicklaus. Twice in a day!

At the 1975 Ryder Cup in Pennsylvania Barnes gave the Golden Bear an utter whipping in the morning singles, beating him 4&2.

Nicklaus, that year’s reigning Masters Champion, was not willing to leave it there. He begged his captain Arnold Palmer, to let him have a second chance against the Surrey born Scot. Cockily telling Barnes on the first tee of their afternoon match “There ain’t no way you’re going to beat me again!” Nicklaus went on to lose once more. Barnes defeated the American superstar 2&1.

There are many stories and anecdotes about Barnes, who played in six consecutive Ryder Cups, won nine times on the European Tour, and was a regular player on the east African Safari Tour. Quite a few of the stories involve alcohol, pipes and very, very short shorts. 

He once, in 1982, famously marked his ball during tournament play with a beer can. He made the putt and won tournament! And he was also said to often carry a large bottle of vodka and orange juice in his bag.

But my favourite story is so good, it’s hard to believe.

During one Zambia Open, Barnes came into the clubhouse and drank three pints in a row, checked the time and hurried out of the bar. “I’d better be going”, he said, “I’m on the 10thtee.”

His bigger than life character and his flamboyant golf made him a crowd pleaser, but Barnes also suffered. He was shy, afraid of people and as an antidote drank. After a long period of denial and nearly killing himself in 1993 he accepted treatment for his alcoholism. He later played successfully on the Seniors Tour. Famously winning the British Senior Open twice in a row.

Big Brian Barnes died on September the ninth at the age of 74 of cancer.

Golf has lost one of its most colourful characters!

Here’s a link to a short video portrait of the big man.

[xbaepsae]

same old mistakes (m)

“But it wasn’t that you necessarily regretted sleeping with Hoseok. No, you very much enjoyed it—maybe too much—which is why it was wrong. So fucking wrong.”

[rich boy!hoseok x reader]

genre: country club!au, smut, slightly angsty, some fluff

word count: 12.8k

rating: mature

warnings: sex. lots and lots of unprotected sex lmao (please use protection), slight rough sex, some jealousy, rich prick asshole jung hoseok, mentions of alcohol, language, golf terminology (i’m sorry if it’s wrong idk anything about golf LMAO) oblivious mutual pining lol

a/n: omg this fic absolutely consumed me these last few weeks. i haven’t been able to think about anything else, which is why i haven’t been super active lol. so glad i finished this before the upcoming valentine’s holiday and hobi’s birthday <3 loved writing this so much! rich asshole hoseok has my heart. xoxo

You have never felt more flustered in your life.

It’s the summer after your first year of college, and you decided to come home—to spend a little time with your mother and her new husband. Well, more like she begged you to come home. You actually wanted to visit your roommate’s family on the coast, and spend your days at the beach, but your mother insisted that you come home instead.

Now that you are home, she doesn’t even have time to spend with you. She and her husband are too busy vacationing; that should’ve been you. You can’t even bear to look at your roommate’s Instagram account. And worse of all, your mother signed you up for a job you did not consent to.

“You did what?”

Your mother blinked back at you, feigning innocence. “I heard from Mrs. Lee—you know, our neighbor down the street that attends the local country club—and she said that they were hiring for the summer. You know how rich people love their golf and fancy dinners.”

“And you just decided to volunteer me?” You couldn’t believe her. “I don’t want to work at some prissy country club.”

“Weren’t you just complaining about being broke last week?” She really did not need to expose you like that. “This’ll be good for you, honey.”

Thus, you found yourself standing in front of the country club not even a week later. They hadn’t even asked you to do an interview; you just talked to a manager on the phone and she said for you to just come in. Honestly, too suspiciously easy but what could you do about it? Your mother had been right—you did need the money.

When you arrived, you were immediately whisked away into training. There, one of the girls, Soyoung, fitted you into the uniform—a plain white polo and khaki shorts—and told you what you’d be doing here.

“So, there are a lot of different areas here,” she began, “as you can see from how big this country club is. So, you might find yourself working in different areas occasionally…but for now, you’re going to be on the course with the drink cart.”

Soyoung explained that as the drink cart girl, you’d be driving a golf cart around while handing out beer and other drinks to the golfers on the course. It seemed easy enough, except you’d never driven a golf cart before…or tried to sell people something. However, Soyoung assured you it was easy.

But that was about an hour ago. Since then, a lot has happened. You managed to get the golf cart to work, but it is considerably different from an actual car. The forward/backwards switches were tripping you up. Because of that, you already knocked over a display…or two.

Which leads you to your most embarrassing moment.

For some reason, you forgot that being back in your hometown means the possibility of running into people you went to high school with. The thought just didn’t seem to come to mind. Being off at university has made you forget about all of those idiots you used to be around every day. Until now, when you bump into one of them. Literally.

You really hadn’t seen him behind you; then again, you weren’t looking, which was probably not the greatest idea. But you blindly backed up and hit him. Not that you were going fast or anything, but he did cause an outburst.

“Oh my—fuck! Watch where you’re going!”

Horrified, you press onto the breaks. Turning around, an apology begins to fall from your lips. “I am so sorry. It’s my first time—”

“Y/n?”

You freeze at the voice; it sounds awfully familiar. Blinking a few times, your eyes focus on the person in front of you. And your stomach sinks. Standing in front of you is none other than Jung Hoseok—the last person you ever expected to see again.

He must see the recognition fill your eyes because he instantly smirks. “Wow, it really is you. It’s been a while, huh? Haven’t seen you since graduation.”

An awkward laugh passes through your teeth. “Yeah…it really has.”

“Didn’t expect to see you here,” his smirk seems to widen, and his eyes travel down to your clothes. “You work here or something?”

“Yeah…just started today, actually.”

He nods appreciatively. “Nice. Well, I’m here almost every day, so, I’m sure we’ll be seeing a lot more of each other.”

I hope not. “Sure.”

Just as Hoseok opens his mouth to say something else, someone calls his name. He looks away from you, and that’s when you finally allow yourself a moment to look at him. For the first time, you realize how long a year is and how much change can happen in that time frame. Even though it irks you a bit to think about, he looks really good—even in his damn polo and khakis.

You take in the curved slope of his nose, the way his brows are perfectly arched to match his equally perfect eyes. And you’re almost blinded by his pearly white smile. Perhaps, Hoseok has always been attractive—dark, windswept hair and all. You’ve just never wanted to admit it; even after that one—

“Catch you around, y/n,” he suddenly says, and that’s when you realize he’s caught you. He smirks and shoots you a wink as he walks away, leaving you to mentally kick yourself alone.

***

In high school, you and Jung Hoseok were in different crowds. He was preppy and popular—kind of snooty, to be honest—and you were just normal. Not popular, but not a complete wallflower either. Despite not being in the same circles, you both had a few classes together; which meant that you knew each other decently well. At least, you knew enough about Hoseok that you wanted nothing to do with him.

Except for that one, momentarily lapse of judgment, your conscious suddenly reminds you. But you’d rather not think about that right now.

Another thing about Hoseok that you knew of was his background; he came from money—a lot of it, actually. You don’t know exactly what his family does, but they’re those old money types; the kind of rich people that have been rich forever. Which helped to explain his popularity in high school, and how he had a country club membership now.

You wished you knew that before you got the job here.

As you drive around the golf course, feeling more comfortable driving the cart now, you may or may not be on the lookout for Hoseok. Now that you know he’s here, your eyes seem to search for him everywhere. And it’s not because you want to see him; you want to avoid him, if possible.

It’s not until you’re halfway through the course that you see him with a group of other guys, which—to your displeasure—are also people you went to high school with. It’s fitting though, you presume, considering they were all close then as well.

You don’t know anything about golf, but you watch as Hoseok lines up his club to the ball. He swings only once, and the ball flies. You follow where it goes and watch as it hits the grass and rolls right into the hole. His friends cheer for him as he turns around with a smug look on his face. “And that, everyone, is how you fucking do it.”

“Nice, man,” one person—who you recognize as Jeon Jeongguk—says, moving to pat him on the back.

“The motherfucking GOAT,” another—Kim Namjoon—laughs.

“Maybe you should just go pro or something, dude,” the last guy says, and you recognize him as Kim Seokjin. “Because you’ve hit an ace, birdie or eagle at every hole.”

Hoseok laughs at that. “Maybe I’m just lucky today.”

“Dude probably just had good ass last night,” Namjoon smirks. “So, who was it?”

“A gentleman does not kiss and tell, my friend,” Hoseok winks, and you can’t help but roll your eyes at the banter between all of these men. Disgusting. “But if you really want to know…”

“Not you trying to get Hoseok’s sloppy seconds,” Seokjin speaks directly to Namjoon. “Because we all know how that went the first time with—”

“It wasn’t my fault Katie caught feelings,” Hoseok interrupts, walking back towards the rest of his friends. “I told her it was a one-time thing.”

Jeongguk struggles not to laugh as he moves up to line his club and ball. “And then you introduced her to Namjoon.”

“And she used him to get closer to…” Seokjin starts to say, but then he notices you. You’ve never seen someone straighten up so quickly. “How long have you been sitting there?”

“Long enough,” you say as three pairs of eyes turn to look in your direction as well. “Um, drinks?”

“Took you long enough to get here, y/n. I was starting to wonder when you’d arrive,” Hoseok takes a step in your direction, and you watch as the rest of the guys do a double take.

Namjoon is the first to speak, “Ah…y/n. Yes, I remember you…we had chemistry together, right?”

“Oh my gosh, you were in my calculus class!” Jeongguk exclaims, golf club still mid-air.

“I don’t think we had any classes together,” Seokjin says with a pout. “Because if we did, I would’ve remembered you for sure.”

For some reason, you feel your cheeks get hotter. “Um, thanks?”

You can tell they want to say more to you, but Hoseok shoots his friends a look you can’t see, and they close their mouths immediately. Turning back to you, he takes another step close to your golf cart. “A beer for each of us.”

“Aren’t you all underage—”

“No one cares here, y/n,” he cuts you off with a smirk. “Besides, Seokjin’s father owns this country club—we can do whatever the fuck we want.”

Shock passes through you at this news, mouth dropping at the realization that Hoseok and his friends might be more privileged than you originally thought.

“And we don’t usually have to pay for anything, but”—he fishes for something in his pocket— “here.”

You look down at his extended hand, where a crumpled 100-dollar bill sits, and practically gawk at it. Who carries such large bills around so casually? “What—?”

“Keep the change,” he stares you right in the eyes, and you have no other choice but to accept the money.

“Thanks,” you manage to say before reaching around to grab four beers from the cooler.

As each bottle is plucked from your hands, Hoseok is the last person to grab his; and the way his fingers accidentally touch your own seems like no accident at all. Although it was only for a few seconds at most, his touch leaves your skin burning. Burning for what? You don’t know; but it lingers the rest of your shift in a way that is so distracting, you nearly hit someone else with the golf cart.

***

“So let me get this story straight, you saw a guy you fucked for the first time in a year and now you don’t know what to do with yourself. Worst of all, his presence at your new job is going to be the death of you.”

You cringe at your roommates’ words. “God, why do you have to say it like that.”

“I mean, that’s who he is right?” her voice echoes through the screen.

She’s not wrong, but it still doesn’t sit right with you. “When you say it like that, it’s just weird.”

“Y/n, you act like you haven’t fucked other guys before.”

“Yes, but what happened with Jung Hoseok was a mistake,” you breathe. “It was never supposed to happen.”

Her pixilated expression softens upon seeing your clear distress. “I understand, babe. We all do things we regret.”

But it wasn’t that you necessarily regretted sleeping with Hoseok. No, you very much enjoyed it—maybe too much—which is why it was wrong. So fucking wrong. It wasn’t like he coerced you into that bedroom; you willingly followed him inside. And you can’t even blame it on the alcohol because you had been as sober as the day you were born.

It was graduation weekend, and everyone had come out to celebrate. You really didn’t want to go, but some of your friends forced you. Just enjoy the time we still have together, y/n, they had said. Ironic, because you no longer spoke to any of them.

Around the fire, behind the massive patio of someone’s house, drinks were poured and passed around. Even though you held a red solo cup in your hand, the murky liquid didn’t draw you in; you hated the way alcohol tasted back then. Still kind of do. But you simply pretended like you were enjoying yourself.

Every single part of you wanted to leave early that night, but you didn’t. You ended up staying because of Hoseok. It was something about the way he carried himself at that bonfire that night. Before, you never saw him as anything more than a spoiled brat; however, the flames of the fire seemed to soften him before your eyes. Because before you knew it, Hoseok pulled you away from the stares of everyone else.

You don’t even remember what happened—what you two talked about or didn’t talk about. But something happened before he kissed you. Unfortunately, it’s all a blur now.

After swelling your lips with, what seemed like, a thousand kisses, he told you he wanted more; and you told him yes. The memory of him rushing with you through the house and into a vacant room still burns hotly in your mind. You had been giddy with nerves and excitement as he pushed you against the closed door, sucking the air from your lungs.

Hoseok ripped your clothes off with practiced hands, clearly experienced with this, and made you come undone more times than you can recall. Throughout this whole exchange, not much was said; but no words were needed when he could read your body so well.

The both of you ended up falling asleep like that—tangled in each other’s arms. And when you woke up a few hours later to the rising sun, horror filled your veins like a shock of ice.

You left without saying anything. Not that you think he would’ve cared either way. Jung Hoseok seemed like he would be used to stuff like that.

You just never thought you’d see him again one year later.

But here he is.

***

During your next few weeks at the country club, you try your best to avoid Hoseok.

This, however, proves difficult to do since you can hear his laughter echoing everywhere. From the hallways to the range, you can’t seem to escape him at all. And it doesn’t help that his friends all seem to be around too.

Every time you catch even the smallest glimpse of him, you turn in the opposite direction. You aren’t sure if he can tell that you’re avoiding him or not, but you don’t care—you just want to get this summer over with already.

“Y/n!”

Turing in the direction your name is being called, you see Soyoung walking towards you. You offer her a tight smile, hoping she isn’t here to tell you that you’re in trouble or something. “Soyoung. What’s up?”

“Do you mind helping me clean up a little by the pool? I know you just got done on the range, but a girl called out and I could really use the help.” She gives you this sad puppy look, which means you can’t refuse her offer. So, begrudgingly, you follow her back outside.

In the hot summer sun, the large crystal blue pool looks like temptation. Soyoung notices your face and laughs. At her laughter, you realize you’ve never seen the pool this close. You pass by the canopy lined pool lounge every day, but you’re not a maid here or on lifeguard duty so you’ve never had a reason to linger very long.

“Looks inviting, huh?”

All you can do is hum in agreement as you begin helping Soyoung pick up disserted pool towels and throwing them into the hamper. As you’re bending down to retrieve a particularly wet towel on the concrete, the hot sun beating down your back is suddenly gone. You look up and notice there’s a shadow blocking the sun—a suspiciously familiar shadow.

Immediately, your back straightens, and you turn around to face a shirtless Hoseok. His hair is wet from the pool, which means beads of water are cascading down his chest. You try not to stare, but he’s literally so close; there’s nowhere else to look. Your eyes follow the towel in his hand as he begins to dry himself up, going from his abdomen before they travel down to the dark trail of hair that leads to—

You freeze and force your eyes back up, but the smile on his face tells you that you got caught—again.

“Like what you see?” His smile seems to grow wider at your expression.

You scowl. “In your dreams, Jung Hoseok.”

He leans down, face inches from yours, whispering, “If I remember correctly, that dream already came true…one year ago.”

Before you can say anything, he stands back up to his full height and brushes past you—his naked skin burning holes through your clothes. Once he’s a few steps away from you, you realize his friends were also there the whole time. Embarrassment burns your cheeks at what they might’ve thought, but their expressions remain too ambiguous for you to read as they follow their friend.

“I didn’t know you knew Hoseok.”

Your head whips towards Soyoung. “I don’t…I mean, not really. We just went to high school together.”

But your coworker doesn’t seem to buy it. “Really? I’ve been working here for a few summers and those guys have always been around, especially because Seokjin’s dad is the owner. I’ve tried to make small talk with them a few times, but they’re pretty intimidating.”

“They’re pricks,” you tell her. “Typical entitled rich boys.”

“I suppose so,” she hums, throwing the last towel into the bin. “Anyway, can I ask for another favor?”

All you can do is nod. “What?”

“I have another thing I have to do,” Soyoung starts, making you realize she works pretty hard here, “so, can you put these towels in the laundry room? You don’t have to start a load or anything; just leave them and one of the maids will wash them later.”

She slips the laundry room key into your pocket, telling you to give it back to her later, as she rushes off to her next task. Which leaves you to find the laundry room by yourself. After nearly ten minutes of searching, you find it tucked in a small hallway.

Opening the door, you push the dirty towel hamper into the room. You look around and see multiple washers, dryers, and a lot of storage shelves filled with miscellaneous items. You’re so caught up in looking around the room that you almost don’t hear the door close. At the sound of the lock clicking into place, you turn around; immediately, your heart starts beating faster.

“What are you doing in here?”

Hoseok leans against the door, no longer shirtless like before, and smirks at you. “I was following you.”

Like that’s not weird at all. “Stalker much?”

“Just wanted to know why you’ve been avoiding me, that’s all,” he pushes off the door, taking a step closer. You unconsciously take a step back, hitting the hamper.

“I haven’t been avoiding you,” you lie.

He just blinks at you. “You’re a bad liar, you know that?”

You’re shocked that he can read you so well. “Okay, so what if I am avoiding you? It’s not like you should care. Just leave me alone.”

For a brief moment, something passes over his eyes; but the emotion’s gone before you can think about it. “I don’t think I can do that.”

“What?” Now, it was your turn to blink rapidly.

Hoseok takes another step towards you, severing whatever distance there had been before. His arms move to cage you between himself and the dirty hamper. Slowly, he leans down, making sure not to move his eyes away from yours. “I can’t just leave you alone—not when you’re the only thing on my mind.”

“What are you trying to say—” his hand wrapping around your jaw shuts you up.

“To put it simply, I can’t stop thinking about you—about that night after graduation,” he says, eyes swirling with a darkness you know all too well.

“But that was a year ago,” you manage to say through clenched teeth, and he loosens his grip on you.

His signature smirk lights his lips. “So?”

“I was drunk,” you lie again. “I don’t even remember what happened.”

“So, you’re telling me you don’t remember this?” One hand curves around your hip. “Or this?” Another wraps around your waist. “Or this?” He plants his lips onto your jaw.

You release a harsh breath as the memories of that night come flooding back. Heat begins to pool in your stomach from his touch. As he peppers kisses along your jaw and down your neck, your hands move to fist his shirt. Just as a moan threatens to leave your throat, he pulls away.

Your lips part in indignation at the loss of touch, and Hoseok just smirks even wider. “I thought you said you don’t remember?”

“I’m going to kill you, Jung Hoseok,” your frustration is through the roof.

“Tell me you remember.”

Right now, there are two sides of you fighting. There’s one part of you that wants to tell Hoseok you don’t remember a single thing—that you really had been drinking graduation night. But there’s an even larger part of you that wants him so bad—to feel the same high you felt a year ago.

So, you settle with, “But I’m working right now.”

Hoseok’s eyes turn obsidian as his smirk drops. “I’ll be quick.”

He pulls you away from the hamper and pushes you, stomach first, against one of the washers. Suddenly, you realize what’s about to happen and you try to force the dopey smile off your face by biting your lip. In one swift motion, he unbuttons and pulls both your shorts and panties down to your ankles. By the sudden coolness below, you already know you’re soaking.

And Hoseok must realize this too because you feel him swipe a long finger over your folds. You instinctively jerk back, letting out a moan at the slight pressure. “Hoseok—”

“Fuck, y/n, you’re so wet for me already,” he groans, using a second finger against your wetness. He slowly rubs your clit and you can’t help but tighten your grip against the cool machine. “Wonder if you’ve been wet since we saw each other earlier.”

You roll your eyes. Typical, cocky Jung Hoseok. “Of course not, you douchebag.”

“I beg to differ,” he hums, inserting a single digit inside of you. “So tight—just like I remembered. Tell me, y/n, has anyone else had the pleasure to fuck your pretty pussy after me?”

His words cause you tense for a moment, before replying, “Yes, asshole. I went to college. What do you think?”

“I’m thinking that I’m about to fuck you so good,” he starts and finishes with a whisper, “that you won’t remember any of them.”

If you weren’t already turned on before, you were now. Hoseok continues to fuck with his finger, slowly adding a second one, edging you until you’re a panting mess before him. “S-Stop teasing—I thought you said you were going to be quick?”

“I will be,” he promises, and you can hear him pushing the waistband of his swim trunks down. You’re dying to see his cock again, so you turn and nearly drool at the sight of his angry red tip. For some reason, he looks bigger than you remember and that worries you a little. “What? Think it won’t fit?”

You raise your eyes to look at his, and he has the sexiest expression on his face you’ve ever seen. “No. It fit before, right?”

He licks his lips as he brings his cock close to your entrance, brushing his head back and forth against your clit. You turn back around, arching your back more in hopes that he’ll finally just stick it inside already. But before you can get too lost in the moment, you gasp.

“What’s wrong?” He actually sounds concerned.

“Do you have a condom?” you ask, facing him again. And by the pained expression on his face, he doesn’t. You let out a frustrated groan at getting all worked up for nothing. You’re about to reach down for your panties when he pushes you back into place. “What?”

“Are you on the pill?”

“Yes,” you answer, “but the pill is only—”

“I’ll pull out,” he says. “And I’m clean, I swear.”

You look into his eyes and seeing the desperation in them makes you want to indulge him. “I’m clean too.”

Hoseok breathes a sigh of relief. “Thank fucking god.”

“You better pull out, or I swear Jung—”

You fail to get the rest of your words out because he slams his cock into you. And you’re right—he is bigger than you remember. He bottoms out at your cervix and you feel like a mess already. You both moan at the feeling of being connected like this again, after so long, and Hoseok keeps his promise and wastes no time.

He thrusts into you hard and fast, leaving you to do nothing but take everything he has to give. “Fuck, Hoseok—oh my god.”

Earlier, he talked about fucking your past sexual exploits out of you, but there was no need to mention anything at all; no one compares to him. They never had a chance.

“Shit, you feel so good wrapped around me,” he groans, digging his fingers into your hips.

And soon enough, you feel your orgasm approaching. It’s slow building, but it’s there and you want it. You figure you’ll just chase it yourself. Reaching a hand down, you find your clit and begin rubbing it. But just as soon as you feel yourself get closer to the high you desire, your hand is ripped away.

There is a sudden weight on your back as Hoseok whispers in your ear, “That’s my job, sweetheart.”

His fingers find your sensitive nub and you come immediately, screaming a string of curses into your arms in hopes that no one hears you. As you ride your high, you feel him pull out. With a groan, his cum spills all over your ass.

As you try to catch your breath and calm your erratic heart, you feel Hoseok pull his shorts back up and take a step back. All of the sudden, a strange feeling builds up in your chest. Is this what loss feels like? But you don’t have much time to dwell on your own thoughts because you feel a towel wiping your body.

You turn and see Hoseok cleaning the mess he made; but instead of looking down, he’s looking right at you.

“What?” you ask, sounding defensive.

“Nothing,” he says, and you hate that you can’t read people well. You wish you could know what he’s thinking right now.

After he cleans between your thighs, you pull your clothes back up your body. You still have a few hours left of your shift, so you hope you don’t look too much like a mess right now. Pulling your hair into a low ponytail, you feel awkwardness hit you like a truck. What are you supposed to say now?

“Uh…I have to go,” you can’t even look at him. “We have a meeting this afternoon…”

You don’t have a meeting, but you don’t know what else to say. But unlike you, Hoseok can take a hint and nods. “I’ll leave first…see you around…and thanks.”

He stares at you for a moment longer before leaving the room. You look out to make sure he’s a considerable distance away before you follow, ducking into the bathroom to check your appearance. Once you look into the mirror, you barely recognize the person you’re seeing.

The girl in front of you has flushed cheeks and sweaty hair.

You spend the rest of your shift daydreaming about what happened. In all honesty, your body aches in the best possible way. And even after your shift, once you get home and lay in your bed, you’re still thinking about everything.

Did you really willingly have sex with Jung Hoseok a second time? Once is a mistake, twice clearly means there was choice involved. What would your roomie say if she knew? You don’t plan on telling her—at least, not until you get back to school. If she knew you had succumbed to his charms this early in the summer, she’d chew you out for sure. Besides, you won’t let it happen again.

There will be no more slip ups this summer.

***

“Oh, fuck—yes. Right there…!”

You cling to the shelf as Hoseok fucks you from behind. Your legs feel impossibly weak from being in such an uncomfortable position, but you couldn’t care less right now—you just want to come.

“Don’t be so loud, sweetheart,” he groans through clenched teeth. “Don’t want to get caught now, do we?”

“N-No…but if you d-don’t make me c-come quicker, Hoseok…” you moan, and he proceeds to thrust faster. You don’t want to scream, but it just feels so fucking good for you not to. “I’m going to—”

Hoseok clamps a hand over your mouth as you come undone. Your eyes shut on their own accord as you scream into his hand, body shaking from the impact of your orgasm. He curses, probably from how tight you’re gripping his cock, but continues to thrust a few more times before pulling out and painting you in strings of milky white.

Once your body shops shaking, he pulls you up and presses a kiss onto your exposed shoulder. “You’re amazing.”

You can’t help but smile a little. “Thanks.”

The two of you quickly clean up and readjust your clothes. You’re supposed to be organizing after all—at the place you are working at for the summer—not fucking an old high school classmate. Hoseok leaves with a promise of finding you later, and you’re left alone with your thoughts again.

What just happened?

You really did mean it when you said that you didn’t want to have sex with Hoseok again, but here you are anyway. It’s already been a month since the first incident, and you’ve been sneaking quickies around the entire country club with Hoseok.

Every time you think you’re alone, he manages to find you and that infuriating smirk makes you helpless. You’ve lost track of how many times he’s already managed to make your panties drop. But even though he seeks you out for sex, every now and then he sticks around to have a conversation with you.

You feel your resolve crumbling away every time you get a glimpse of the human Hoseok.

“So, what are you studying in school?” he asked one day, settling beside you on the floor of the laundry room.

“Is it bad that I’m undecided?” You tried to laugh it off, but the sober expression on his face stopped you.

He shook his head. “No, you have time.”

And just like, all felt okay in the world.

“What about you?” you managed to ask.

The scrunch of his nose had been nearly undetectable, but you noticed it. “Business. My father wants me to take over the company one day.”

“And you don’t?” the question slipped past your lips without a second thought. You’d been horrified.

“I don’t mind business, but I don’t want my father’s. I’d rather start my own.”

This truth had been rather insightful, and you couldn’t help but change the way you looked at Hoseok—only a little though. You still thought he was an asshole.

After another moment pondering your idiocy, you go back to whatever you were doing before. Just as you place the last shampoo bottle on the rack, a knock sounds on the door. You jump, wondering if it’s Hoseok again; but when it opens, it’s just Soyoung. “Hey—you’ve been in here for a while. Almost done?”

If only she knew.

“Uh, yeah. Actually, just finished,” you try to smile. “Got a little distracted in here, I guess.” A little more than distracted.

Soyoung offers an understanding expression. “Feel that. These storage rooms can be a bit overwhelming.”

“Did you need something?” you ask, changing the conversation.

“I actually bring word from our manager. You don’t work tomorrow night, right?” Tomorrow is Saturday and one of the few days you actually have off this week. You’re dreading what Soyoung is about to tell you. “She asked if you could come in for a few hours—just to help with dinner. They’re expecting a big crowd tomorrow night since there’s a fundraiser happening during the day. It’ll be like three hours max.”

You think about it for a moment, rolling your lips between your teeth. Honestly, you don’t want to come in on your day off—who wants to work when they don’t have to—but three hours doesn’t sound so bad.

“Just three hours?”

Soyoung nods. “Just three hours. I’ll be helping with the dinner too, so we’ll get to work together. And afterwards, we can go to a party, if you want.”

That piques your interest, even though you aren’t one to go out often. “What party?”

“There’s a few houses on this property—they’re rented out to people who want to stay at the country club for an extended amount of time. And I heard from some of the other employees that a party is being hosted at one of the houses. Anyone and everyone is invited—even us.”

For some reason, you actually want to go to this party. Why? Maybe you just want to forget about Jung Hoseok’s charismatic smirk. A party should be a good distraction. So, you tell Soyoung that you’ll come work tomorrow and attend the party with her.

And the girl gives you hug, promising that it’ll be loads of fun.

You hope she’s right.

***

The next night, you arrive to work in a different version of your uniform. Instead of the usual polo and shorts the country club has you normally donned in, you’re wearing a long sleeve button up and black slacks. In your bag, you brought a change of clothes for later. Thankfully, you remembered to grab it on your way out. Imagine having to wear your server uniform to a party.

That would’ve been a social suicide.

You meet up with Soyoung for a few minutes before the dinner staff collects you all together. They debrief about tonight’s expectations and everyone’s roles. Next, they list all the jobs and when they call your name, you find out you’re going to be taking orders.

“Do I also need to bring the food out?” you ask.

One of the leaders shakes their head. “No, we’ll have people specifically there for that.”

After all the roles are established, dinner officially begins and you try not to look dumbstruck when you walk into the formal dining hall. This is the first time you’ve been in this room and it’s absolutely magnificent. You continue staring around for a moment before walking towards your section of the room—a row of tables by the window overlooking the setting sun.

You proceed taking orders from the first table—a family of four—and then the next—a group of six—before walking to a table that only seats two people. Probably a date. You barely look at the couple as you push a strand of loose hair behind your ear and pull out the notepad.

“Can I take your orders?” you ask, click your pen.

“Yes,” says a nasally voice to your right. You follow it, meeting the profile of a gorgeous girl. Long, silky hair drapes down her back in waterfalls and she’s wearing a tight pink dress. You think that she’ll turn her attention to you, but she doesn’t; she keeps staring at her date. “I’ll have the ratatouille. What about you, Hobi?”

Hobi? “I told you not to call me that, Nina.”

She pouts. “But you let me call you that when we were kids.”

“Yeah, we were kids then.”

You spare a look at Nina’s date and nearly falter when you realize who this Hobi is. It’s none other than Jung Hoseok himself. He’s wearing a fitted charcoal suit, hair slicked back slightly. Even from this view, you can tell his suit is expensive; definitely imported and tailored fitted to his body. Still, you can feel yourself salivating. The man looks like absolute sin, and you feel a sudden flash of jealousy because he’s on a date with someone else—someone he seems to know pretty well.

But you realize you have no right to feel that emotion at all. He’s not yours to have. You both just happen to be sexually compatible. That is all. You two never talked about being exclusive. He is allowed to see other girls, even though the thought makes you feel a little sick.

Hoseok brings his eyes to yours, flashing you a smirk that has your knees weak. “Y/n.”

“You two know each other?” Nina asks, but your eyes don’t move from his.

“A little,” he says. That’s an understatement.

“We just went to high school together,” you add, playing along with his little game. “We weren’t friends though, just happened to be in a few classes together.”

Hoseok feigns hurt, bringing a hand up to his chest. “Can’t believe you think so little of me.”

“Oh, Hobi,” Nina interjects, her hand finding his on top of the table. You zone in on the touch, blood pressure rising when you realize he hasn’t pushed her away.

You try not to roll your eyes. “Yes, poor Hobi.”

When you turn back to him, he’s already looking at you. You stiffen for a second, wondering if his eyes have been on you this whole time. And by the scathing sensation you feel on the side of your head—Nina’s eyes, no doubt—you realize he probably has. “Um. Anyway, what did you want?”

He smirks again. “I’ll have the same, y/n.”

You quickly jot it down and excuse yourself before you start thinking too much.

The rest of your short shift, you make sure not to walk by Hoseok’s table again. Whenever you’re around him, you can’t think properly. He always seems to cloud your best judgment, which is why you’ve already been fucking him this summer. You allow work to consume you, which makes the time fly by. Before you know it, the three hours is already up and you’re headed to the bathroom with Soyoung.

“See? Wasn’t that bad, huh?” she asks from the cubicle beside you.

It was terrible. “Could’ve been worse, I guess.”

“I’m so excited about the party,” Soyoung changes the conversation. “It’s been so long since I’ve had a night out.”

You can’t help the next words that bubble out of you. “Why do you overwork yourself?”

Honestly, you didn’t mean to ask. After all, it isn’t your business to ask such questions anyway. Sure, you were curious about Soyoung but it’s not your place. You’ve been really testing boundaries recently.

“It just kind of happens,” she answers, which shocks you. Not the answer itself, but the fact that she even answered you at all. “I’ve been working here for so long, I guess I just can’t help it.”

“Well,” you sigh, “don’t overwork yourself. Live a little, you know.”

Soyoung laughs. “I’ll try.”

You step out of the stall first, moving to stand in front of the full-length mirror. Tonight, you opted for a flowy crop top and tight skirt. Not something you’d usually wear, but tonight’s different than most nights—you want to enjoy yourself. You pull your hair out of its tight pony, humming in pleasure at the sensation of your hair being free.

“Okay, I see you with the sexy hair.”

You didn’t even hear Soyoung’s stall unlocking or opening. Turning in her direction, you see she’s wearing something similar to you. Only, both her top and skirt are flowy. “More like messy hair.”

She laughs. “It looks good still.”

After running a hand through your hair a few times, and fixing your makeup, the two of you throw your bags into your respective vehicles and walk across the country club’s property. Not even five minutes later, you can hear music playing. Across the distance, you can see a massive house—no, villa—lit up with lights and people all over the place.

“Woah,” you breathe.

“Right?” Soyoung chuckles. “I told you this party was going to be it.”

“I thought you said it was going to be a house party.”

“It is?” She seems confused.

You shake your head. “Are all the houses on the country club property this big?”

Even in the dim lighting, you can see her nod. “I think so. Maybe not this big, but they’re all large enough to house multiple people.”

Damn. You wonder who’s renting this place for the summer. It’s huge, so there must be more than one person; maybe a family? Though, that seems odd since a party filled with young people is happening right now. However, you can’t even begin to fathom how much it costs to rent. How can anyone actually afford that?

But all thoughts of money fade when you actually reach the villa. You assume there’s mainly college-aged people here, though it’s difficult to tell age these days. Soyoung leads the way as you two maneuver past groups of people and into the villa itself. Once inside, you have to force yourself not to gawk at everything.

Grand doesn’t even begin to describe the interior. There’s so much to look at and before you can even begin to look at everything, Soyoung pulls you away. She finds the kitchen and hands you a drink from the cooler. You remove the lid and begin sipping, tasting the slight bitterness of alcohol on your tongue.

“So what do we do now?” You’re acting like such a noob.

Soyoung slants a look at you. “We mingle, maybe dance a little. Do you like dancing?”

You bite the inside of your lip. “Umm, kind of?”

Of course, you’ve been to your fair share of college parties—where dancing and drinking do not mix well. But you don’t mind it; you just don’t think you’re very good. You voice this thought out loud and Soyoung rolls her eyes.

“You don’t have to be good at dancing. You just have to do it. Usually, it comes naturally.”

You aren’t too sure about that statement. But as Soyoung pulls you in a new direction, away from the kitchen, you realize that you have no choice. In another large room adjacent to the kitchen, someone has started a makeshift dancefloor. The bass is booming against the wall and strobe lights illuminate the room.

Even though you’re struggling, Soyoung pulls you both into the middle of the room and spins you around to the music. “I can’t.”

“Sure you can,” she shouts over the music, proceeding to move her body dramatically. You can’t help but laugh. Shaking your head, you realize dancing really isn’t a big deal and you allow Soyoung to move you to the beat. And eventually, you can do it by yourself.

You close your eyes as you sway to the music, occasionally bumping into Soyoung on purpose. It even gets to the point where you feel comfortable enough to lift your arms into the air, which is something you’d never thought you’d do.

It’s not until a few songs later that you finally open your eyes. And when you do, you immediately meet his gaze.

A jolt of electricity goes up your spine at the look Jung Hoseok is giving you right now. He’s leaning against the fireplace in the room across from you, changed out of that expensive suit he was wearing earlier. Now, he’s only wearing the white button up—sleeves rolled to his elbows—and a pair of navy-blue shorts. In his hand he nurses a beer, and that’s when you realize he’s still with that girl from earlier.

You try to keep your expression neutral as you stare at them; but by the way Hoseok’s hard gaze morphs into something smugger, you know you’re doing a bad job at concealing your feelings.

Dammit.

You quickly whisper something to Soyoung about needing some air as you look for the nearest exit. Unfortunately, you don’t know your way around the house. You meander around for a moment before you find a door that leads to the backyard. Breathing a sigh of relief, you open the door and walk into the cool summer night.

There’s a pathway of rocks that leads to the dock of a body of water—a body of water that you didn’t even know existed. You aren’t sure what to call it; a large pond? Whatever it is, you take the pathway until you reach the end of the dock. There, you settle on the edge and stare at the murky depths.

Bodies of water like this were unpredictable. You had no idea how deep it actually was. It could seem shallow, but in actuality be sixty feet deep. For a second, you consider dipping your toes in; however, you decide against it. Who knows what’s in there?

You allow the echoes of cicadas and other small insects to fill your senses. Eventually, you even lay down on the dock and close your eyes, trying not to think too much about—

“What are you doing?”

Your eyes flash open. And as they adjust to the night, you make out Hoseok’s infuriating perfect face. He’s leaning over you, and it pisses you off that he looks good even from this obscene angle. “Go away.”

“Well, aren’t you grumpy,” he hums. “It seemed like you were having a great time shaking you’re a—”

“Hoseok,” you breathe. “Leave me alone. I don’t want to play your stupid games right now.”

He cracks a rare half-smile. “Who said anything about playing games?”

When you don’t answer him, Hoseok’s smile falls and he frowns. You don’t care what else he has to say; you really meant it when you said you’re not in the mood for him right now. However, the boy doesn’t seem to take the hint like he usually does. Because he settles right beside you on the dock, laying down so he’s now eye-level with you.

“You’re insufferable,” you roll your eyes, shifting away from him.

“That’s what you like about me.”

“Who said I liked you?”

“I think your actions speak louder than you think,” he says, sounding awfully calm right now, which is very unlike him. You have no other choice but to look at him. And when you do, your breath gets caught in your throat. Even in the darkness, his eyes seem to sparkle as he looks at you—so fucking intently like he’s seeing you for the first time.

You don’t like it.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” you force your eyes away, but his stare burns your skin anyway.

“You were jealous at dinner, weren’t you?”

The scoff that leaves your lips sounds beyond bitter. “No, of course not. Why would I be?”

“If you were jealous,” Hoseok begins, which makes your stomach churn, “don’t be.”

“Huh?” you ask, still not able to look at him.

“Don’t be,” he repeats. “Don’t be jealous of Nina.”

“I wasn’t jealous of—”

He cuts you off. “Don’t be jealous of her. She’s just a family friend.”

“But you two seem so close…”

Hoseok laughs. “I just entertain her because our parents have been friends forever. I’m pretty sure they want me to marry someone like her. I mean, she’s hot”—you suck in a breath— “but she’s not you.”

Your eyes finally give him and meet his, and he’s still staring at you. “What’s that supposed to mean.”

As you both look at each other, you expect him to say something. But he never does. Instead, he scoots a few inches closer to you—so close your noses are almost touching—and runs his fingers through your hair. Weaving his digits through your still messy hair, he pulls your head towards his and your lips meet.

And underneath the moonlight, you allow Hoseok to kiss you until your head is dizzy and you have no choice but to let him consume you again.

***

The next morning, you find yourself wrapped in pristine white sheets that feel like silk beneath your fingers. But that’s not the only thing you’re wrapped in. A heavy arm is slumped over your waist and the body heat emanating from him sets yourself ablaze.

Last night, after Hoseok bruised your mouth and skin with his lips at the dock, you asked him why he was at the party.

“This is my house,” he said so casually, like it wasn’t a big deal at all. Your eyes bulged out of their sockets. “Well, my house for the summer at least.”

“You’ve been here this whole time?”

He nodded. “Our actual house is in the city, and I hate driving back and forth so much—especially since I’m here with the guys nearly every day. So, my parents decided to rent this.”

You didn’t know what to say. But you realized there was nothing that needed to be said because since this is where he was staying, it meant his bedroom was here too. You let him walk you back to the villa and up the stairs into his room, to which you had to text Soyoung and let her know you were headed home early. A lie. You told her you felt sick. Another lie. But she didn’t seem to mind. She had found a few other employees of the country club there and would walk back with them.

After losing track of how many orgasms he gave you, youth both shared a bottle of vodka he had stashed underneath his bed. And tipsy you had no inhibitions.

Every question Hoseok asked, you answered honestly.

“Favorite color?”

“Red.”

“Do you like working at the country club?”

“It’s a job.”

“If you could do anything in the world, what would it be?”

“Spend my life away on some island.”

He laughed. “Really?”

“Island life s-seems fun. It’s relaxing. You don’t have to worry about anything,” you slightly slurred your words. “You?”

“I think island life seems to be the move now.”

You both talked so much. About anything and everything. It reminded you so much of the first time you really spoke to him. Moments like this made Hoseok feel normal, which you don’t know how to feel about yet.

But one thing you realized you did enjoy was his laugh—his real laugh. Not the one he smirked with, but the one he gave when he thought no one else was watching.

You must’ve said something stupid—you honestly can’t recall it now—but when he doubled over in laughter, it was infectious.

The good thing is that you don’t have work today, which means you don’t have to rush anywhere. But you have a feeling that you’ve overstayed your welcome. You didn’t even mean to stay the night, but you’d been so comfortable in Hoseok’s bed that you fell asleep after all the conversations. It was probably the best sleep you’ve ever had.

You’re going to give the credit to Hoseok’s expensive mattress, and definitely not him.

Though, you can’t deny how good it feels to have him spooning you. A part of you wants to stay in this bed forever, but that’s crazy talk—you shouldn’t have come into the bed with him at all. You keep telling yourself—over and over again—that you don’t want to fuck him again.

But you’ve been such a liar.

Now, you’ve accepted the fact that you can’t resist him. You know it’s just sex, but you didn’t want to get involved with him in the first place.

You take in a few breaths as you try to move his arm off of you. Hoseok shifts a little, and you risk a look over your shoulder. When your eyes take in his face, your heart stutters for a moment. With his mouth slightly parted and eyes still firmly closed, you realize that he looks so peaceful asleep. So vulnerable. You have to force yourself from touching him.

What the fuck, y/n?

Turning back around, you gently pry his arm off of you and pray that you don’t wake him. But all your careful maneuvering proves to be futile because his arm releases from your grip and moves back down to your waist. With a squeal, Hoseok pulls you back on his chest.

“Where do you think you’re going?” God, his morning voice is so hot.

“Um, leaving?” you sound like an idiot.

“Stay,” he breathes against the back of your head.

You want to. You really, really want to. “I can’t.”

“Why not?” he asks, snaking his arms underneath the covers to find you—skin still bare from last night’s activities. Your breath hitches as his fingers trail across your skin, each touch feeling like sparks.

“I-I have somewhere I have to be,” you stutter as his rough hand wraps around one of your breasts, squeezing tight. Your nipple hardens immediately.

Hoseok slips the covers off your body, exposing you to the cool air-conditioned room. And without warning, he moves on top of you and begins trailing his lips over your body. You notice that he makes sure to suck those bruises he left scattered across your skin extra hard, purpling them even more.

“Hoseok,” you try not to moan. “I really have t-to—”

His lips crashing onto yours shuts you up. You kiss him back forcefully, nipping his lips with your teeth and running your tongue across his. As you two battle it out, he settles in-between your thighs. Bringing a hand down your abdomen, it slides straight to your cunt—which is already drenched.

He hisses against your lips. “So fucking wet. Thought you had to go?”

“Shut up,” you moan as he runs a finger from your ass to your clit, swirling your juices everywhere. Involuntarily, your hips buck up when he slides a finger inside of you. He gently fucks you like that for a moment, leaving you writhing underneath him. “More, Hoseok—I need more.”

A wicked smile erupts on his face. “Are you going to beg for it?”

An incredulous expression lights your face. You’ve never begged in bed before, and you aren’t going to start now. However, the man on top of you is sure getting a kick out of this. Hoseok moves his finger slowly out of you, which agitates you to no end. If you weren’t so horny right now, you’d kill him.

“No,” you narrow your eyes, not willing to give in.

His finger stops moving. “A shame, really.”

You freeze. “What the fuck, Jung Hoseok?”

“I’m not doing anything until you say please,” he smirks, moving his upper body away from you.

Even though you’re pissed, you can’t help but drink in the Adonis in front of you. Like you, Hoseok is completely naked. Your eyes rake his defined muscles and his thick cock that’s already unbelievably hard. He’s hard for you. The fact that you turn him on makes you feel good—too good.

“Fine,” you shrug, and his smirk falls. “Just get blue balls then.”

As his body goes slack for a moment, you use the opportunity to slip from the bed. But you don’t manage to get very far at all. You probably only take three steps before his arm wraps around you and pulls you back to the bed.

You fall on your back, and Hoseok pins your arms on either side to keep you from moving. Still, you squirm—heart drumming in your chest at the look on his face. His eyes have turned black, and he looks like he wants to devour you. “I’m not begging.”

“We’ll see about that.”

With your arms still pinned, Hoseok lowers his body and your legs spread on their own accord. Fuck you, body. The movement makes him chuckle darkly and he begins peppering kisses along your thigh. Your breath hitches in your throat, which turns into a gasp when he suddenly bites down on your flesh. Not hard enough to draw blood, but it’s enough to be painful.

And as much as you hate to admit it, you like it very much.

Hoseok continues alternating between kissing and biting your thighs until you’re one-hundred-percent positive there is a pool of your wetness on the bed. You know what he’s trying to do and it’s working, but you don’t want to give in. And then he’s so close to your pussy, not even an inch away. You can feel his breath fanning you there. If you just move your hips a little…

“Don’t even think about it,” he moves his head away.

You release a groan of frustration. “Oh my god.”

“If you just say the magic word,” he taunts, lips now on your stomach. He moves low, but never low enough; never where you want him to go.

When he moves up your body, pressing chaste kisses on your nipples before latching his lips on your neck, you release a breathy moan. Hoseok lets out a groan from the back of his throat, hands tightening around your wrists. Fuck, why are the noises he makes even attractive? “Hoseok…”

“Y/n,” he’s still sucking on your neck.

This position, you realize, aligns him perfectly with your body. Again, if you were able to move just a little bit…but Hoseok’s weighing you down with his body, not allowing you to move at all.

“Hoseok,” you say his name again, but he doesn’t respond—he just moves his lips to your ear, nibbling on the sensitive flesh there. And that’s when you crumble. You can’t take it anymore. “Please…please just fuck me already.”

Simultaneously, he curses into your ear as he slides his cock into you. Too perfect—the way he fills you up is too perfect.

You expect Hoseok to fuck you hard, hips slamming into you, but he doesn’t. His thrusts are slow, but the way he hits your cervix has you nearly in tears. Fuck. He releases the hold on your wrists to grip onto either side of your face. With lips ghosting over yours, you tangle your hands into his dark hair.

Your breaths mesh together as he continues to fuck you with slow, measured thrusts. You’ve grown accustomed to the rough way Hoseok likes to fuck; but for some reason, you love this so much more. It’s intimate and makes your chest tighten in a strange way but feels so good you don’t want it to stop.

“Please,” you whisper against his lips again.

“Fuck, sweetheart,” he groans, rolling his hips in a way that has you arching off the bed. Yes.

“Just like t-that,” you say, slanting your mouth to mold against his again.

Your orgasm comes without warning; you moan into Hoseok’s mouth, gripping him closer to you and you ride your high. Through the haze of your earth-shattering orgasm, you hear Hoseok ask if he can come inside you. He’s always pulled out—even last night when he fucked you for hours. But right now you don’t care, and your answer comes in the form of your legs wrapping around his hips.

He kisses you hard and comes inside you a moment later. You’ve never let anyone else come raw inside of you; never trusted anyone else that much. And in that moment, a terrifying thought flashes across your mind.

I’m in love you.

The thought comes so suddenly, burns your brain so hotly, your body stills. Hoseok finally lifts off of you, eyes crinkling in concern. “You okay?”

You quickly try to shake the feeling away. “Um, yeah.”

“You sure? Should I not have come inside you?” he slips out of you, and for some reason you want to cry at the sudden emptiness you feel. “You’re looking pale right now.”

“No, it was fine,” you blink too fast, feeling tears begin to well in your eyes. Get a fucking grip on yourself. “I’m sorry, I really have to go.”

Hoseok doesn’t try to stop you this time when you move away from the bed. You find your clothes on the floor and slip everything back on without looking at him, even though you can feel his gaze on you the entire time. Not bothering to check your appearance, you grab your stuff and move towards his door.

“Y/n,” he calls your name, voice sounding strange, but you don’t want to look at him. If you look at him, you’re going to start crying. And that’s too embarrassing to explain.

You slip out of his bedroom and take the stairs two at a time. As you rush down, you run into someone. “Sorry—”

Looking up, you realize it’s Seokjin; he must’ve stayed the night. Even in your distress, you feel feverish wondering if you were too loud. However, he takes one look at you and stares like he has you all figured out. Your heart threatens to beat out of your chest.

“Did something happen…?” he asks, looking at the door you just left wide open upstairs.

“Don’t worry about it,” you quickly say, adverting your eyes and sidestepping him.

This morning, it’s much easier to find the front door. Just as you’re about to slip out, you hear your name being called again, heavy steps thundering down the stairs. Shit, shit, shit. You break into a run and don’t stop until you have no more air to spare in your lungs. Thankfully, you’re far enough from the villa and close to the country club.

Only then do you allow yourself to fall into the grass as the tears finally cascade down your cheeks.

You’re a fool, you realize. A fool to have fallen in love with someone like Jung Hoseok. Someone who will never feel the same way. Someone who just uses you for a good time. someone who you barely even know. Someone you never wanted to get involved with.

***

You call out of work the next week, claiming to have the stomach bug. But you don’t have the stomach bug; in fact, you’re not even physically ill at all. You just can’t bear the thought of running into Hoseok at the country club.

On the first day, you listen to your sad girl hours playlist on repeat.

During your second day of moping in bed, you half consider quitting your job. Would it be too cowardly? Maybe. Unfortunately, there’s only a few weeks left of summer and you doubt that you’ll be able to find another job.

When the third day arrives, you finally get out of bed and take a proper shower. You didn’t realize how much you needed it.

Your mom knocks on your door on the fourth day. You only know it’s her by the way she taps on your door rhythmically; she’s always done that ever since you were a child. When you don’t respond, she dares to crack the door open. Shit, you forgot to lock it last night.

“Are you feeling better, love?”

You don’t move on the bed, hoping your mother thinks you’re asleep or something. But despite you not moving, she still shuffles into your room and settles herself on the edge of the bed.

“Is this because I haven’t been spending time with you this summer?”

No, mom. It’s me. I fucked up. Although, I would appreciate it if you did spend time with me—like you dragged me here this summer to do.

“I’m really sorry, love,” she whispers, getting up after a moment.

Once you’re sure she’s by the door, you finally open your mouth. “It’s not because of you. It’s…something else.”

You hear her grab onto the door, but she doesn’t say another word before leaving you all alone again.

On the fifth day, the bruises that littered your skin finally start fading. Glancing into the mirror of your bathroom, you run your fingers along the—now greenish-yellow—hickies he left on your neck. Goodness, there were so many. And annoyingly enough, you can still feel exactly where he had touched you—like his hands are still there right now.

Pulling your t-shirt down, you see more evidence of Hoseok’s assault on your chest. You have to stop yourself from looking at the rest of your body.

The sixth day you, finally, spend time pondering that terrifying thought you had about Hoseok. Are you actually in love with him? Do you even know what love feels like? What even is love? You’ve always been an overthinker, and these questions only make your head spin more. But after hours and hours of teetering the files of your brain, you do know one thing.

You like him.

You like Hoseok a lot.

It might not be love—perhaps that had been your sex-brain talking—but you were definitely starting to fall for him. You don’t know when or where the change happened, or maybe you’ve always liked him, but it feels good to finally admit the truth to yourself.

Now, the real challenge was if you would tell him.

Would it be worth it?

***

“Y/n, I seriously thought you’d quit!”

Soyoung is the first person you run into on your first day back. You just thank god it’s her and not someone else. You flash her a quick smile and greeting. “Hey.”

“What happened to you?” she asks, walking beside you down the hall.

“Stomach bug,” the lie passes surprisingly easily through your lips. Good thing you had enough time to practice saying those words out loud.

Soyoung makes a face. “That must’ve been awful, but I’m glad you’re well enough to be here.”

“Yeah, totally.”

She leaves you at the golf cart and you get into the seat with a sigh. Over the month and whatever weeks you’ve been here, driving the cart now feels like second nature. You no longer bump into displays or people.

As you drive around the green, you make a stop at every hole and offer the players drinks. At the beginning of summer, you’d been a little apprehensive about this job. However, it turns out, working as the drink cart girl isn’t half bad. The tips you make are worth being out in the scorching summer sun.

Towards the end of your round, you feel your nerves twist. You’re relieved that you haven’t seen Hoseok; then again, a part of you is worried. Why isn’t he here? He’s always here. Every single time you’ve driven on the range, he’s been here.

Where is he today?

Soon, you realize that you didn’t need to worry at all.

At the last hole, you see him—well, them. Hoseok, Seokjin, Namjoon, and Jeongguk are together, like they always seem to be. Inseparable. For a second, you think about skipping them, but then you overhear their conversation.

“Damn, Hoseok,” Jeongguk whistles, leaning against his club, “this is the worst game you’ve ever played.”

“He played worse than Namjoon,” Seokjin snickers.

Namjoon narrows his eyes. “I’m not that bad.”

“You lack coordination,” Seokjin explains to his friend, as if that was supposed to make the burn better. “And Hoseok usually always wins.”

“Now that I’m thinking about it, he hasn’t played well all week,” Jeongguk twists his lips.

“Dude probably hasn’t had ass in a week,” Namjoon comments.

“I’m right fucking here, assholes.”

You finally allow your eyes to settle on the man of the hour. Like his friends have suggested, he does seem off today. Normally, the Jung Hoseok you know is easy going, laid back. He’s usually cocky and charismatic. Every time you’ve seen him play golf, he’s amazing. He always swings with blind sureness—like he knows the ball will hit green. But the man you’re looking at right now is beyond tense and agitated.

“You’re no fun today,” Jeongguk pouts.

“He hasn’t been fun all week,” Seokjin rolls his eyes. “Not since the house party.”

Your hands stiffen on wheel. Hoseok’s been in a mood for a whole week? You try to find the answer to your own question in his eyes, but he hasn’t looked in your direction yet. In fact, none of them seem to realize you’re close. They all seem to be thrown off their usual balance. That obvious fact makes you realize you should probably just skip them. But as you lift your foot to press the gas pedal, Seokjin notices you.

Damn. Why is he always the first one to see you?

His eyes widen at your appearance. “Just the girl I was thinking about.”

That statement draws everyone else from their stupor and towards you. You watch as Jeongguk and Namjoon’s eyes also widen, but the only pairs of eyes you really care about right now can’t even meet yours. Hoseok shoots you a glance before twisting away, jaw hardened. Ouch. You feel a pang in your chest.

For some reason, his dismissal hurts more than anything else right now.

“Glad you finally arrived,” Seokjin continues talking, walking closer to you. “I was wondering when you’d come.”

It was weird to have Seokjin speak so much to you. The only person you ever really spoke to was Hoseok, but it seems like he’s the last person who wants to talk to you right now. Maybe coming into work was a bad idea.

“I think you should talk to him,” he says, and it was your turn to have wide eyes.

“I don’t know…” What could you even say to him? You don’t know where to begin because you don’t know what kind of relationship you have with Hoseok. Did you want a relationship with him? Did he even feel the same way?

“He’s been a fucking wreck all week because of you, you know?”

Your chest hurts. “Really?”

Seokjin nods. “I mean, the guy’s always a pain in the ass…” he rolls his eyes, “but it’s worse now.”

Maybe you hadn’t been the only one suffering this past week. As horrible as it sounds, the thought makes you feel…hopeful.

“We’ll take your cart back and cover for you, if you want.”

You stare at Seokjin and find yourself nodding. “Okay.”

He calls Jeongguk and Namjoon over, asking you to get out of the cart. “Don’t worry—we won’t steal your money.”

It’s a joke. You know it’s a joke. Still, you can’t help the next that slip past your lips unconsciously. “Like you all need it.”

The three of them laugh at you as they pile into the cart. Before you can say anything else, they drive off—leaving you alone with the one person you’re most nervous to speak to. He’s still turned away from you, staring off into the distance. You will your heart to stop racing as you wipe your sweaty hands on the back of your shorts.

Calm down.

You take a deep breath before you decide it’s now or never. Deciding it is time, you take the tentative steps towards Hoseok and run a million different scenarios in your head. What’s the worst thing that can happen? He tells you to fuck off and never speak to him again?

Nausea settles into your throat at the idea.

By the time you run another worst-case-scenario into your head, you’re just a few steps behind him. Closer to him now, you feel like you’re going to burst at the seams. You stare at his disheveled hair—like he’s been running a hand through it all day—and stiff body. Despite his rigid posture, he’s still the most handsome person you’ve ever seen.

You don’t know long you stand there and stare at Hoseok, but you don’t jolt out of your daze until you hear his voice.

“Are you just going to stare at me all day?”

“Oh, you’re—I mean, I—” you fumble with your words, nervously twitching your hands. “I wasn’t sure if you wanted to talk.”

“It’s kind of hard to talk to someone who doesn’t even like me,” he says, finally turning to face you.

What? “Hoseok—”

“I know you hate me, so I won’t bother you again, if that’s what you wanted to talk about,” his voice is detached, and you realize you’ve never seen this side of him before. No wonder his friends were fed up with him. You would’ve been too. “Sorry if I annoyed you this summer.”

Without another word, he begins to walk away from you. What the hell is going on? You shake your head as you march up to him and grab onto his shirt. “Stop.”

“Y/n…”

“Hoseok, shut up!” You bring your eyes up to glare at him. “Just—just let me talk first, okay?”

His eyes are still cold, but you can see a bit of softness pool in them. “Fine.”

“You’re an idiot,” you breathe, dropping your fist and feeling something prick your vision. “I-I don’t hate you…I don’t hate you at all. And I don’t want you to stop bothering me. Yes, you’re annoying”—you feel him take a step away— “but I like it. I like you. I like you a lot, Hoseok. So much…I don’t even know—”

He stops your rambling with his lips. The kiss makes your heart soar and ache all at once because it feels so damn good—Hoseok feels so damn good. But it ends all too soon when he pulls away.

“I like you too.”

“Then why are you being so mean to me?” You feel an onslaught of tears flow down your cheeks.

Hoseok wipes a tear away with his thumb. “Because I thought you hated me.”

“Well, I don’t,” you sniffle.

“Then, why’d you leave?”

You know he’s talking about that morning. Do you tell him the truth? “Because I thought I was in love with you.”

“Love?” he chokes, and you feel a blush heat your face. “What made you think that?”

“Uh…it was just a sudden thought,” you awkwardly scratch the side of your face. “But I thought about it, and it’s not love…at least, not yet.”

You say that last part so quietly, you don’t think Hoseok even heard. However, the way his eyes gloss over for a moment lets you know that he did. You’re even more embarrassed now. You try to cover your face, but he grabs both of your hands before you can.

“Let’s take this one step at a time, yeah?” Look at him being the rational one here.

You nod, agreeing with him. “So, we like each other.”

“We do,” he says, suddenly pulling you closer to him. Your body hums being so close to him. Being close like this, you’re able to wrap your arms around him and does the same—hand moving to the back of your neck to tilt your head back. At this angle, you’re exposed to him.

“So, what are we?” you dared to ask the question.

Hoseok ghosts his lips over you. “I don’t like sharing.”

Butterflies erupt in your stomach. “I haven’t been with anyone else this summer.”

It’s the truth. You haven’t even looked twice at anyone else. You haven’t desired anyone else. You don’t think you ever can again. Jung Hoseok has ruined you.

“Me either.”

“You and Nina—”

“We’re just family friends, remember?” he cuts you off.

“She clearly likes you.”

“Well, she’s not you. I’ve told you that before.”

He did. And, for some reason, you believed him.

“So, what are we?” you ask again, looking up at Hoseok to gauge what he’s going to say. He stares down at you for a moment before that smirk you know all too well graces his lips. As irritating as it is, you’ve missed it.

“We’re dating,” his eyes sparkle, before dimming a little. “If you’ll have me.”

Warmth pools in your stomach as you nod. “There’s nowhere else I’d rather be.”

[ariendiel]

What scents would each of the S2 boys wear? 😊

Ohhh, I love this! I got my fellow fragrance fanatic @amelia-w to help as well, and this is what we concluded would fit each of the boys well. I recommend having a sniff at some (not all), next time you’re somewhere they sell fragrance to see if you agree!

Bobby – Ultra Male (Jean Paul Gaultier)

Main accords: Vanilla, fruity, sweet, cinnamon, warm spicy, aromatic

Bobby probably doesn’t bother with a cologne or aftershave on the regular (working in a bakery gets sweaty, so a good deo is all he usually goes for), but will bring out his bottle of Ultra for special occasions. It’s described as fruity, sweet, loud, sexy, and playful, and although it could be unisex it definitely leans masculine. Like a masculine cotton candy, it dries down to a mix of pear, cinnamon, and vanilla that smells like it should be edible.

Gary – Boss Bottled (Hugo Boss)

Main accords: Woody, fruity, vanilla, warm spicy, cinnamon, powdery

Like Bobby, he probably doesn’t bother with cologne every day, but when he does use it he’s definitely a Boss man! Versatile, it’s become a bit of a classic with it’s use of apple and vanilla to add some freshness to the otherwise cozy and comfortable woody drydown. It’s generic, masculine, strong, and unobtrusive. Think of it like a masculine apple pie scent!

Henrik – Dirty (Lush)

Main accords: Aromatic, green, fresh spicy, lavender, mossy, herbal

He’s scandinavian, and scandi men like to take care of themselves - for Henrik that’s not just limited to his hair. This one is perfect for right after having had a shower, or just to freshen up. It’s unusal, but compelling, with a smell of spearmint leaves and lavender flowers, with a hint of medicinal wintergreen and herbs de Provence, with a creamy sandalwood in the drydown. It’s also been descirbed as the perfume equivalent of mouthwash (one of those from the hippie health food store that has ayurvedic herbs in it).

Ibrahim – Polo Blue (Ralph Lauren)

Main accords: Ozonic, aquatic, aromatic, fresh spicy, green, musky

If he got a girlfriend who cared he’d probably be happy to try something new, but our dear golfer is most definitely stuck on Polo Blue. It was probably the first perfume he bought, and he’s never moved on. It’s sporty and fresh, crisp and masculine, but also nothing special. It’s got a juicy citrus/cucumber opening, and settles quite nicely into something that can be described as a sophisticated shower gel.

Jakub – Lynx/Axe Africa

Main accords: Vanilla, citrus, amber, woody, aromatic, fresh spicy, powdery

Jakub probably thinks his favourite lynx body spray also works as deodorant and bathes in the stuff - preferably after a sesh at the gym - in addition to using it on his clothes. Loud and proud, you’ll smell Jakub before you see him, and Jakub smells like a teenage boy. Synthetic, bold, fresh, spicy, and crisp, we all know it, and fear it: Just like Jakub. He also thinks the packaging is cool, and enjoyed the old TV ads - it makes him feel more like a manly man.

Lucas – The Uncompromising Sohan (Penhaligon’s)

Main accords: Woody, oud, rose, warm spicy, animalic, aromatic, leather

A man of great - and expensive - taste, Lucas has a carefully curated collection which also includes Tom Ford Noir and/or Tom Ford Tobacco Vanille. But this is his favourite. Rich and deep, the rose and oud combination is seductive, with prominent smooth saffron that when combined makes for a sophisticated, smooth, sweaty, and sexy scent. This one is worn by a confident gentleman, and oozes “I’ve got my shit together” without being too much, and still it has a softness to it: Just like Lucas.

Noah – L'homme (YSL)

Main accords: Warm spicy, citrus, aromatic, fresh spicy, woody, fresh, vanilla

Noah wouldn’t want anything offensive or too bold, preferring something that sits close to the skin, and which is warm and comforting (you’ll have to get close to him to truly smell it). L’homme is classy, alluring, elegant, timeless and so so cozy. The tonka bean gives it some sweetness, with ginger and bergamot, a little spice and just enough musk giving it an aura of intimacy and soft masculinity. It also transfers to clothes, and you’ll want to steal his shirts after he’s worn this one!

Rocco – Nothing

Main accords: Sweat, food van, weed, mother nature

Rocco would never let anything as unnatural as cologne touch his skin, instead choosing to just smell like, well, himself. He’ll try to say he smells like “adventure”, “spirituality” or “like this one specific place in Moldova where I met this shaman who told me to follow the path of my soul”, but in reality he just smells like someone who hasn’t showered in too long and who lives in a van, with the addition of certain herbs.

[onthesandsofdreams]

A Part of Me Is Yours, Forever [2/3]

Pairing: Molly x Greg Rating: T Summary:  It is four months into her relationship with Greg, when Molly realizes that the color purple has been present for important dates. And it wasn’t just the dates that were memorable, the dates themselves had been. Words: 1251 Notes: For my @mollyappreciationweek‘s bingo card, square: Purple

Read @ AO3 | Chapter 1

It is four months into her relationship with Greg, when Molly realizes that the color purple has been present for important dates. And it wasn’t just the dates that were memorable, the dates themselves had been.

Greg had insisted that for their first one, they should do something lighthearted and fun, something that took pressure off and should they decide not to try and date again, it would still be something they could look back with some degree of amusement.

She agreed, curious as to what Greg had planned. He had grinned widely and told her to wear something comfortable, that they would be going golfing. And she nearly cringed, she wasn’t a golfer, so she could hardly say she was excited. That was, until the actual date. Greg had told her that jeans and a jumper would be fine, normal shoes too.

That had perplexed her, because she knew that golfers wore special shoes, but Greg had given her a wink and promised her that it would be fine. So, she did, she had worn a cozy lavender jumper and jeans and cute flats, she had still done some make-up and her hair was loose, nothing wrong with wanting to look nice.

The day of the date, she was surprised and couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her when she saw were Greg had taken them, it was Swingers. An interesting restaurant that had a mini golf course inside it. In fact, the golf course was the main attraction, the restaurant and bar were tucked near one the walls. “Oh, now I see, this kind of golfing?” She said with a laugh.

Greg had given her a quite self-satisfied grin, “Well, I don’t golf myself, but here? No harm if we’re both terrible, right? Besides, food and drinks nearby.”

She had agreed, and they had spend quite some time in the course before sitting down for food and the promised drinks. They had talked too, and by the time the date was over, she told him she was looking forward their next date. “I really appreciate the no pressure date,” she also had told him.

“I’m glad you did,” Greg had responded. “Looking forward the next one.”

And that’s how it started, and they did, in fact, began to officially date and being exclusive with each other. And while the dates that followed were more on the conventional side, one time, Greg surprised her with an outing at a bar. She had dressed nicer that day, because the plan was to go from work to the place that Greg had in mind. A nice plum skirt and a button down was her outfit of choice.

And once again, Greg doesn’t disappoint. “We’ll get our food and drinks were we’re going.” He says with a secretive air.

The place, as it turns out, is Aqua Shard. And she feels quite enchanted at the place, much more so for the view that offers. She can see all of London, and after getting their drinks, she has never seen the city from this high up, she and chat about their day as the sun begins its descent and night falls over the city and lights begin to turn on. Their meal is lovely, the drinks even better.

It is there, that she and Greg share their first kiss. And she feels quite the romantic, after all, night is falling and they have a darkening London as their background. She likes it, and she decides then and there, that she likes kissing Greg much more.

And they continue to date, quite happily.

She’s wearing a deep plum lacy underwear set when she and Greg sleep together for the first time. She doesn’t forget how tender he is with her, as if he were afraid of breaking her with his touch. But she welcomes that fire, that passion that simmers below his usual stern working demeanor.

Another memorable date happens at their first month anniversary. She wants to watch a movie, and Greg agrees happily enough. But he also promises that the location will have to wait a bit, she doesn’t mind, even if she wonders why, but then she remembers that Greg likes to have surprises and unusual and special places for them, so she relents and lets him pick the place. This time, however, she picks a black dress with purple flowers on it.

The place, as it turns out, is a chapel. She blinks surprised and blurts, “Here?”

Greg nods, “Just wait until you see inside.”

She trusts him again, and gets out of the car and waits for him. Greg, much like the gentleman that he is, offers his arm and when she has taken it, they walk towards the chapel. Once inside, she is once again surprised that Greg has somehow managed to surprise her. The inside of the chapel is decorated for a romantic night, there are flower bouquets and candles lit, all in good spots to prevent a fire. The pews have colourfull cushions. “Alright,” she says and turns to give Greg a kiss. “You proved me wrong, again. This is interesting, how do you found it?”

They are walking towards their places when Greg answers, “A fellow at Scotland Yard, he told me about this place, they change location, so it’s a guessing game on where we’ll watch a movie. Sounded like fun to me.”

“It is fun, a good place to visit a new place and watch a movie.” The cushions are very soft, and she knows that it will be a romantic movie, and she is quite happy that Greg found this place. She looks around and takes it all in, this, she makes note, is something they should do more often.

And they enjoy their night, watching a romantic movie, she doesn’t even miss the popcorn.

The dates continue, they grow cozy and comfortable – not that the others were uncomfortable – and they both quietly begin to settle into the relationship.

It doesn’t change that Greg saves interesting dates for anniversaries. And he doesn’t disappoint for their second month, that date is marked with him in a purple shirt and tie at a theater that is for up and coming playwrights. She enjoys herself immensely with the play – a comedy.

Their third month, he takes her to Barbican. More specifically, the Conservatory, she’s wearing lavender again in the form of printed flowers, “I match with plants,” she jokes as they strode around simply enjoying the greenery.

Greg shakes his head, “No, you are a flower Molly.” And then he motions with his hands, “None can match you.”

She stares at Greg for a moment, then smiles and pulls Greg down for a kiss. Who would have guess that Greg could be quite the romantic?

And they’re about to go for their fourth month, when she freezes in front of the mirror, smiles and opts for a purple turtleneck blouse and a the same lavender jumper she wore on their first date. She knows where they are going this time, and she doesn’t want to be cold.

After all, you could hardly wear a dress while kayaking in the Thames, could you? But she’s quite excited and very much looking forward to that. Before she lives, she gives herself a once over in the mirror, and nods. Purple was not a color she wore often, but she didn’t mind that it had now become a part of her memories with Greg. It could have been worse.

[thekpopwriting-blog]

Dating Ateez

I'm a new blog so this wasn’t requested yet but i gotta show off the goods y’know. gotta entice the viewers, lure you into my den, maybe bake you some cookies. idk smoother you in love probably 

What Dating Ateez Would Be Like

Hongjoong:

He’s literally a softie and it shows. When he first tried to ask you out on a date, his ears turned bright red and he stumbled over his words. You had to take mercy on his poor soul and just told him to pick you up at seven.

He loves to take you out for a simple café dates, especially for your first date. He loves to just spend time in your company, talking about anything and everything. Before you would even have the chance to pay, he would give the cashier his card and send you a cute, smug smile. You guys stayed there until closing and he blushed heavily as he realized he kept you out so late and probably missed his curfew.

This boy loves you. A lot. He constantly loves to be around you. He’s not that big on PDA but despite this, he will always hold your hand in public if you’re okay with it. Occasionally, when he’s overflowing with affection, he would gently grab your head and place the softest of kisses on your forehead. That’s how he shows he loves you without verbally saying it.  

He gets jealous like any normal person and he isn’t afraid to admit it around you. He won’t say it in front of his members though in case they might tease him. When he gets jealous, he will likely just wrap an arm around you and pull you closer, hoping to send an obvious signal that you were happily taken.

He wouldn’t mind taking you to the studio sometimes. He likes to sit in your presence as you work on whatever while he works on creating new lyrics. He wouldn’t mind showing you lyrics for your feedback. However, don’t ask to listen to the song before it’s finished. He wants you to hear it in all its glory. He’s trying to impress you.

Seonghwa

There’s a reason why people call him a prince. He’s the epitome of a gentleman. The first time he asks you out on a date, he simply meets up with you after class or after work and expresses his desires to date you.

This boy would pick you exactly at six. He was actually early and stood outside your place for twenty minutes, wondering if he should knock or not. He’s pretty sure your neighbors were staring at him through their window.

He ends up taking you out for a nice dinner and movie. During this time, he holds open the doors for you and pays for the entire date. He didn’t believe you couldn’t handle yourself, he just wanted to spoil you.

He was smooth and said you could pay for the next date.  

During dinner he would just gaze at you with pure affection, nodding his head to symbolize he was listening. He would never interrupt you just because he loved listening to you talk.  

Seonghwa loves to spoil you. If he ever notices you staring at something for a little longer than usual, he will add it to his mental ‘things y/n likes’ folder and buy it for you later. He also loves spoiling you with affection.  

He’s not big on PDA neither, but he definitely loves to touch you. He always has a hand on you, whether it be on your waist, or on your lower back, this boy loves touching you. This also means cuddling. When you both are getting ready for bed, he will wrap his arms around you and pull you to his chest. His fingers were intertwined with yours and his nose was buried in your hair.  

Yunho

The first time you ever went on a date, he would take you to a movie theater that had a small arcade in it. He did this so he could spend more time with you. He let you pick out the movie and you both paid for each of your items respectively, though he did offer to pay.  

During the movie he had his arm over the back of your seat. Unfortunately, he didn’t pull a “yawn and stretch move” much to your disappointment. Afterward he would slowly walk you home, purposely taking a longer way if it looked like you were enjoying yourself. You didn’t mind.  

He wants to do any and everything with you. He’s down to try anything. Want to go swim with the dolphins? He’s there. Want to stay home and just order take out and binge tv shows? He’ll immediately order from your favorite place and pull up Netflix.  

He is a soft cuddly bear and I refuse to believe otherwise. He loves to wrap you in his arms, despite your height. He loves the feeling of you in his arms. If he could, he would hold you all day but unfortunately you have school/work and he has a job to do.

But don’t think he won’t try his hardest to drag you to work. He wants you to meet all of his members and get along with them. You both are so important to him, he needs you to get along. And of course, you do.

Yeosang

This shy boy took forever to ask you out. He had to psyche himself up for half an hour before he was finally able to confront you. He had a whole speech memorized but he forgot it immediately. So instead he was mumbling and tripping over his words, his face progressively getting hotter. Please be patient with him.

For the very first date, he just went and took you out for ice cream and a cute walk through the park. He offered to pay for you, and he would smile if you let him pay. Please let him pay just so you can see that cute smile of his. I swear it clears up skin

He’s not very fond of PDA. Not because he doesn’t like touching you, simply because he’s too shy. Whenever you walk down the street together, his hands occasionally brush yours. You’ll need to be the one to take his hand and when you do, he’ll send you a small smile while a faint blush dusts his cheeks.  

He prefers to stay indoors whenever you have date night. He loves to be able to wrap his arms around you while you watch a movie. At home is the only time he feels confident enough to touch you.  

This boy would be so excited to show you his drones. Even if you don’t like them, please don’t say anything bad. His eyes light up and a cute grin settles across his lips. He’s like a puppy. He even has names for each of his drones, which he tells you happily as he points to each one respectively.

San

San was observant. He wouldn’t ask you out if he didn’t believe there wasn’t a chance of your reciprocating his feelings. One day, he had a sudden boost of confidence, so he pulled you aside and asked you out.

Your first date was mini golfing. It’s such a fun activity and he hoped you would enjoy it. He took you outdoor mini golfing at night so you could do it under the night sky. He feels like it adds a sense of romanticism.

Even if you’re a professional golfer, lie to this man and say you don’t know how to play. He will gladly wrap his arms around you and would show you the proper stance. He wouldn’t let go of you until you cleared your throat and he pulled away with a small chuckle. You wouldn’t know he was embarrassed until you noticed how red his ears were.  

He’s such a chill boyfriend. He would like to stay home occasionally and play video games. Even if it’s just one round, he would love to play with you. The couple that plays together stays together.

He would want you to meet Shiber so please act happy, even if you really aren’t. His love for his plushie is pure.  

San doesn’t mind PDA to a certain extent. He wouldn’t mind a quick kiss on the lips, or even holding you in public. However, he feels uncomfortable with having a heated session with you please the way you look after he’s done kissing you is divine and for his eyes only.  

Mingi

When he first asked you out, he tried to act so confident and cool. And you believed it. He’s just naturally able to radiate confidence. During the date you realize how much of a dork he is. He’s a dork but he’s a cute dork.

Amusement park. They’re his favorite place to go and you bet he’s going to take you along. He wants your date to be filled with laughter. That’s how he plans on winning you over. Really. He created a five-step plan and everything. He came prepared.  

Or he was prepared until he ended up eating food and immediately dragging you to the highest roller coaster. You tried to persuade him to go on something else for the time being, but he had a five-step plan, y/n. Don’t worry I got this.

He didn’t. He ended up throwing up in the bushes. You had to rub his back and he just pouted slightly as you explained to the attendee what happened so the mess could get cleaned up. He refuses to believe he was pouting so don’t bring it up.

Mingi loves wrapping his arms around you. Especially outside. He loves showing everyone that you’re dating because he’s just so proud of you. You’re amazing and so out of his league, he can’t believe you agreed to go out with him. Every day he looks at you like you hung the stars in the sky.  

This boy is whipped.  

Wooyoung  

Wooyoung is all confidence. He knows he’s attractive, and while he is humble about it, he knows what he is. He uses that confidence to ask you out and who would say no? This boy is raw charisma.  

He showed up to your place around seven pm, saying he scheduled dinner reservations. It wasn’t extremely fancy because let's be real this boy just debuted, he isn’t rolling in money, but he took you to a nicer place because you deserved it.

He pulled out your seat and sent you a small smile before pushing you in. The whole dinner was spent getting to know each other. The conversation never seemed to fall into an awkward silence and small laughs were shared constantly. If it wasn’t for the fact that the table was reserved for another couple, you probably would have stayed for the remainder of the night. He ended up walking you home like a true gentleman and gave you a hug goodnight and a promise of another date.

Out of all the members, I can see Wooyoung being the most open to PDA along with San. You could be standing in line and he would wrap his arms around your waist and bury his nose in your hair. It’s such a cute scene that other girls would whack their boyfriends and gesture at you both jealously.  

Jongho 

Jongho is a split between a nervous wreck and a confident man who knows what he’s bringing to the table. Depending on the day, you’ll get one or the other. If you happen to get nervous Jongho, you probably wouldn’t notice he was nervous if it wasn’t for the fact he stumbled over his question. However, his hands were definitely clammy, and he hoped you wouldn’t touch them. If you got confident Jongho, he would go up to you immediately and ask you out before he chickened out. Regardless, his hands were still a little sweaty with nerves.  

For your first date, he tried to impress you by going out for a picnic. It was a cute idea and he hoped you would appreciate it. He tried to make some food, but he stopped and ended up preparing snacks. Not that he couldn’t cook, but he ended miscalculating the time, so he had to hurry up because he couldn’t be late.  

Jongho loves to show you off. Not necessarily in public though. He loves to show you off to his members. He loves pulling you into his lap while his hands traced figures over your hands. Of course, if you weren’t okay with that then he would respect that and let you place some space between you both. However, you would never go far because he was always holding your hand.  

Jongho gets jealous, and he’s not afraid to admit that to you. If someone came up to and expressed an interest in you, he would immediately intervene by wrapping an arm around your shoulder and calling you cute pet names.  

If the person still didn’t get the hint or was extremely stupid bold, then he would bluntly say that you were spoken for. Shooting the person a glare, he would pull you aside and continue about your day. He would be miffed the entire day about how the person had no respect for you.

i hope this was good? i struggled writing a first date idea for one of the members and i hope it doesn’t show...