#the way i had to like crunch down in my kitchen to watch the teaser adfkbg

[laviejaguardia]

Carmy alone at 3 fucking am at the restaurant and we're going INTO his HEAD ooohhhh boy he's gonna be a fucking MESS this season isn't he???

[jungwooisms]

hwarang | jungwoo (teaser)

act ii teaser

pairing: kim jungwoo x female!reader genre: historical au, fluff, angst, supernatural members: nakamoto yuta, qian kun, zhong chenle warnings: crass humor and language, war, almost slightly suggestive content(?), blood, blood consumption (vampires??), historical inaccuracies for the sake of plot progression word count: ~6k a/n: this is shoddy but! spoilers for act ii, the real deal to be posted this weekend!

February 17th, 665 — Seonggwa Inn, Ungjin, Kingdom of Silla You’re working on a small bit of embroidery when the door to your room flies open, Nakamoto Yuta stands there, his hand on the handle as he looks to you. The Hwarang’s voice resounds calmly as the speaks, “There you are.”

“Oh, hi Yuta.” You say, gently setting down the cloth and needle as to not prick yourself, “What brings you to my quarters?”

“I have a letter and a package from Doctor Namekawa,” he reaches inside of his robe for a moment procure the two objects, “both are addressed to you.”

Extended are a folded piece of paper and a neatly wrapped parcel, small enough to fit into the palm of your hand. “Thank you…” You muse, unsure of what is inside of each.

“I’ll be going now,” he says quickly before leaving just as soon as he’d entered.

Without waiting, you open the letter, quickly scanning the contents, savoring each word. Namekawa writes of a medicine he’d concocted to subdue a Fury’s bloodlust, hoping that it may be of use to you at some point.  The contents of the package seem to be small, wrapped bags of compressed powder, presumably the medicine. The doctor warns that the medicine only provides temporary relief, no successful attempt had been made to sate bloodlust entirely. For your father who had had the entirety of his tenure in Toehwa-hyeon to create the pimul… Namekawa’s breakthrough surprises you. 

Although, now that you think of your home, an idea springs to mind.

“Toehwa-hyeon…” you soon come to a realization. Perhaps documentation relating to the pimul could be stashed away somewhere in your old residence. Just as the though soars through your mind, another voice calls out, this time drifting in through your window.

“Is anyone home?” A voice resounds around the courtyard. It’s instantly familiar, you find yourself stuffing the letter and bags of medicine into your robes before racing outside to greet the visitor.

“Jungwoo,” your heart jumps once you see him standing outside in the blustery air.

“It’s been a while,” he smiles at the the sight of you. From his robes, he procures a letter, “I’ll be honest, I hadn’t expected you to write so soon… I planned to send a response but thought it’d be better to reply in person.”

“How are you feeling?” You ask, glancing to the sun peeking in from behind a wall of gray clouds. “Tired?”

“A bit,” he says with a nod, “But not enough to make it hard for me to pretend otherwise.”

“I see…” you nod, “I’m happy to see you again.” Jungwoo is incredibly resilient at times, at some points to the edge of stubbornness, so there’s a chance that he may be feigning feeling well for your sake but…

He smiles as he always had, glowing with an outright cheerfulness.

“Would you like to come in? I can brew you some tea.”

“I’ll gladly take you up on that offer.”

“I’m so sorry for the sudden intrusion,” he apologizes as the two of you settle into the main hall after you’ve quickly brewed tea in the compound’s kitchen. “You’re too gracious, as always.”

“Before I forget,” he says, reaching for his cup of steaming tea, taking a sip before continuing, “Kangjoon hasn’t made his way here, has he?”

“No,” you shake your head, trying to warm your hands by wrapping them around your teacup, “The last I saw him was in Yeonhwa.”

“That’s a relief,” Jungwoo sighs out as he sets his cup down, “We still can’t afford to keep our guards down though.”

“The compounds seem more… Quiet now than they had in Seorabeol, where are the others?” He asks, looking at the empty room.

“Many of the men are out working, especially the Commander. He’s either in his room or somewhere with the King’s council.”

After a moment of quiet, you turn to him, “…Jungwoo?”

“Oh?” He looks a bit jostled, “What is it?”

“I’m not sure, I was just curious as to what you’re thinking… You seem a bit lost in thought.”

“There’s much to think about, as you can imagine,” he says quietly, “You must forgive me. Spending time with you is too much of a luxury to lose it by thinking and letting my mind wander.”

“I— I didn’t mean it like that,” you say quickly. He has so many things that could be troubling him; the upcoming war, his new status as a Fury, even his arm.

You imagine it to be the latter, considering the duel with Kangjoon seems to be fresh in his mind still.

Thinking of something to change the topic, you recall the letter you’d received just before his arrival. “Jungwoo, Doctor Namekawa sent me medicine today.”

“Medicine?” He questions with a tilt of his head, “Are you ill?”

“Nothing like that,” hand hovering over your robes, “It has the power to suppress a Fury’s bloodlust. Although, according to the letter, it isn’t perfect. It has its limits. Even if it’s not a perfect cure… it did make me think. If we were to look through my father’s old things in Toehwa-hyeon, we may be able to find some sort of research helpful to Namekawa.”

“You’re…” Jungwoo begins but you’re mind is already racing. The likelihood of creating a cure means that when Jungwoo, or another Fury, is stricken with bloodlust, it can be dealt with immediately.

At first, Jungwoo remains quiet, looking into the dregs of his teacup. “I think I should be able to make time to return with you.” He looks to you with a small, hopeful smile, “Surely both Taeyong and Jaemin would be happy if we were able to improve their conditions as well?”

“I need to get approval from Colonel Lee first,” you say, already moving to rise to your feet. “It’ll only be just a minute.”

Taeyong is hidden away in the recesses of the compound when you find him, at first, he seems wary of the prospect of you and Jungwoo returning back to the eastern coast to rummage through your father’s works, but warms at the idea of a treatment for bloodlust. Having the watchful eye of the Naegeumwi looking over you puts him in a lighter mood as well.  

It isn’t until the next day that you can venture out towards Toehwa-hyeon, yet when the time comes, you and Jungwoo set out at dawn, eager to find anything that’s been left.

February 24th, 665 — Heo Clinic, Toehwa-hyeon, Kingdom of Silla It has been years since you last stepped into your hometown, and looking at the state of your father’s clinic could tell you as much. Weeds had made home in the space between rocks and cracks, a general disorder radiates from the home itself.

“I’m unsure of what I expected but I hadn’t thought the house would fall into disrepair this fast…” you muse as you make your way towards the entrance, dry weeds crunching underfoot. “How long has it been since you were here last, Jungwoo?” A question to the warrior, but the air remains quiet, “Jungwoo?”

Turning, you see him staring off into space, he seems to catch your movement and looks to you with a smile, “Oh, sorry. It feels like a lifetime since my last visit here… The nostalgia is a bit overwhelming.”

“I see…” You understand that there’s a lot to take in, even the yard is an eyesore, yet something tells you what he’s concerned with is far more serious. Hand moving to the door, you gently open it, finding yourself face first with a cloud of dust eager to make its escape into the open air. “I’m sorry for the mess,” you huff as you motion Jungwoo inside.

He nods solemnly before entering, seeing him in this unsettled state tears at you, you’re desperate to know what’s causing it.

Dust, you find, coats every surface in your home. It clings to your clothes, your hair, and your cheeks as you sift through stacks of documents and notes. Neither of you are certain of what you’re searching for, nor had the insight to tell what could be of use.

“This may as well be in a foreign language,” you frown, setting down another stack of papers, “I barely know what any of it means.” Looking up, you settle your gaze on Jungwoo, a frown pulling at your lips, “I’m sorry for bringing you here, you took time away from your duties to help and there isn’t anything to show for it…”

“Don’t apologize for things outside of your control,” he tries to reassure you, yet the melancholy in his eyes feels thicker than the dust flitting around the room. It’s as if you’re speaking to a shadow.

You know it isn’t your place to ask, but you can’t help yourself, “Jungwoo… did something happen?”

Jungwoo’s expression twinges, “What do you mean by that?”

“You’re not as responsive as you typically are,” noting with a flicker from head to toe before looking him in the eyes once more, “Do you want to talk about it? If you open up I may be able to help.”

Jungwoo holds his breath, and then it all seems to come out in a sigh of frustration, “I’m sorry. After not having seen you for a while, the last thing I would have wanted is for you to see me like this.” A shake of his head before he continues, “The chief Naegeumwi and I haven’t seen eye to eye as of late. Ever since our move to Ungjin, Kun has been racing around the council, participating in meetings with the noblemen most involved in the upcoming war. The tensions are high as to how much aid from Tang we should receive, and no matter how many appointments Kun makes, the council spring cancellations on him without any remorse, or force him to run in circles like a headless chicken…”

“Really?” You can’t help but say the thought aloud. In prior conflicts, the King, along with his officials, had written off a majority of the Hwarang’s attempts to legitimize themselves fully. Hearing Jungwoo speak about the practice still taking place, even though the Kingdom is on the brink of another battle, explains as to why he seems so crushed.

“As their colleague, I feel wholeheartedly embarrassed.” Jungwoo breaks his eye contact with you to look at the ceiling, “One would think the pressures of another entity and an impeding threat would spur them into action and cohesion but… They’ve politicized even their inner circles to the point where nothing gets done.”

“Jungwoo…” For as long as you’d known him, he’d been clever, forthcoming and an overall gentleman. For him to work in the company of those who share neither his ambition or empathy must be nothing less of strenuous. It’s a moral dilemma that calls into question what, exactly, had he been fighting for this entire time.

“Don’t be harsh on yourself,” you say, trying to find the right words to bring him a semblance of comfort. “The Commander will find a way to work something out, I’m sure of it. This isn’t the first time the Hwarang have been treated like this, and it certainly won’t be the last.” Your words seem to reach him, his expression softening.

“That’s a good point,” Jungwoo smiles briefly. “Kun isn’t the type to let the naysayers deter him from getting things done.” Seeing him give you a genuine smile makes your heart race, a sense of relief washing over you.

“I’m glad,” you return the smile.

“About what?” He seems confused by the way his brow furrows slightly.

“I was worried about you,” you relinquish, “You hadn’t seemed like yourself on our way here. But that smile, it’s more like the Jungwoo I know. I’d feel anxious about everything you have to think about too, it really explains a lot.”

Jungwoo shies away from you all of a sudden, turning his head to the side with pursed lips. “To tell you the truth, something else has kept my mind ensnared. Something for which you may not be prepared…”

“Huh?” Brow furrowing as you look to him brooding, “What do you mean…?”

He sighs and looks down to the documents before him, flipping through the pages nonchalantly which only helps aid your curiosity. Fingers tracing circles atop the dusty table before he looks to you, your lips part to question him but before you can—  Jungwoo reaches out for you.

Jungwoo all but tackles you, pinning you to the floor before you can step back, kicking up a cloud of dust in the process that stings your eyes. His left hand pulses as he takes your hand in his, your eyes widening.

“J- Jungwoo? What are you doing?” Sweat trails down your spine, and under him you can barely draw a breath. And even when you’d asked him, he ignores you completely.

The two of you remain face to face, his gaze unwavering as your eyes lock together. There’s an eagerness that runs rampant in his stare, though it seems more ravenous than passionate.

An involuntary shiver as your body reacts to his proximity, his eyes eventually close and he begins to inch his face towards you. It takes a second, but you realize what his intentions must be, so you too close your eyes and wait for his lips to find yours.

A sudden gasp and you feel his weight lifted from you, he scrambles backwards, his face becoming pale and rigid from shock. His left arm snaps back to his side as he recalls what he’d just done.

“What did I just do?” Jungwoo berates himself, head hanging as his harsh gaze once again turns soft. “I’m so sorry— What have I done…”

“It— It’s okay,” you say as you push yourself up from the floor, trying your best not to cough from the dust. Jungwoo seems so flustered that you almost feel guilty, you hesitate on how to respond. It feels as if your heart is about to beat out of your chest, Jungwoo was raised as a nobleman, one of the last people you’d expect to try and force himself onto you.

He seems to be as equally confused, by virtue of his grave demeanor, you think it best not to pry.

“I think,” he says as he raises himself to his feet, you following soon after, “That we should return to Ungjin. Sooner or later the Hwarang will worry about your absence.”

A nod and a last look around the home, eyeing spots of sentimental value when Jungwoo lets out a cry of pain and hunches over. His hand slams onto the table before he falls to his knees, grimacing in extreme discomfort.

“Jungwoo?” You ask, noticing that his hair is becoming white, his eyes tinging with a deep red you’d seen in both Jaemin and Taeyong’s stares at times.

“It’s okay,” he says through grit teeth, “If I stay still, eventually thi- this will pass.”

“Do you,” your eyes widen, wondering if this is what you’d heard of from the Fury captains, “Do you need blood?”

Jungwoo’s shoulders jerk at the question, the muscles in his neck strain as he turns towards you. It’s enough to confirm your suspicions. It seems as if he’s displaying a great degree of control, you have a feeling that this isn’t his first experience with bloodlust.

In a moment of clarity, you recall the medicine that Namekawa had sent you, reaching in your robes to grab it. He had written that it could temporarily sate bloodlust, but you know nothing of its full effectiveness or potency. What you do know is that blood is an immediate deterrent, and with your healing abilities, you’re nonplussed about afflicting a minor wound on yourself.

Perhaps Jungwoo may be resistant to the idea, but you see no other way.

“Jungwoo… Drink my blood,” you say and his eyes widen incredulously.

“A-Are you serious?” Jungwoo grimaces, “The thought of doing that to you… It’s sickening!”

“The longer you wait the more agony you’ll be in,” you insist quickly, “Don’t worry about me, you know that I heal quickly so please…”

“You’re mistaken,” he’s fervent, shaking his head adamantly, “This pain is nothing. I simply… I have no desire to drink your blood. If I give into these cravings, I may as well give myself up to madness.”

For all of his charm, Jungwoo sure is stubborn. But as the blood drains from his face and he seems to be on the verge of collapse, you reach for your blade. The steel slices lightly and quickly over the palm of your hand, Jungwoo calls out your name in worry.

As the air hits the wound, it begins to sting, you hold your hand out to him, “Before the cut heals…”

His face scrunches as if he’d been the one to be injured. Yet, he eventually relents.

“Promise me that you won’t look at me until I’m… done.” His teeth clench at his request, you can only assume he means for you not to think ill of him. You nod quickly, glancing to your wound to make sure that it hasn’t closed.

After a moment of hesitation, he gently pulls your hand towards him and you look to the various shelves in the room. His breath tickles your palm just before his lips attach to your skin. The sensation is odd, you can’t help but make a noise of surprise when he begins to drink from you.

“Did I hurt you?” He asks, mouth leaving your palm.

“I’m alright,” you shake your head, still complying with his wish for you not to look at him, “This is nothing, believe me.”

As his mouth finds your wound again, you feel a dull pressure stinging you, but you don’t want to guilt him.

“I can tell by the way that your muscles tense that it hurts,” Jungwoo whispers, sounding ashamed. Another shake of your head before he takes in a long sip and his shallow breathing begins to stabilize.

“Your breathing seems much more calm now,” you note as he stands on shaky legs, his hair returning to its natural hue, “That’s good.”

“There’s nothing ‘good’ about it,” Jungwoo frowns, using his sleeve to wipe away any reach of blood from his lips, “Why must I drink your blood in order to—” He stops himself, shaking his head, “No, you only offered to me out of concern. Forgive my outburst, it was never my intention to blame you.”

Maybe you do deserve the blame, you begin to worry if forcing him to drink your blood overstepped an unspoken boundary between the two of you. An awkward silence drifts through the air as you straighten your robes as you begin to leave.

March 9th, 665 — Seonggwa Inn, Kingdom of Silla During the time that you’d been away in Toehwa-hyeon, orders from the King to march on Hanseong had come. Upon your arrival back to the compound, you find many of the men scrambling to prepare for the upcoming trek.

“Are you almost ready to go?” Kun asks as he passes by your room, you almost hadn’t recognized him with his new uniform. As Silla had solidified its allegiance with Tang, they’d adopted their military style of armor and battle gear to further show their connection. It isn’t an awful design, you’re just used to seeing their blues.

“In a moment,” you nod, not feeling rested as you’d only returned to Ungjin several days prior.

The Commander had said last night that he’d like you to stay in Gochang while the Hwarang march north. Hanseong, a city that technically is in Silla’s domain, had been captured by Goguryeo some weeks ago and the fighting would be hellish. Even after insisting that you could help, Kun never relented in his wishes for you to stay behind. That’s how you find yourself following him through the streets of Gochang towards your new residence some days after the men had begun their march north.

Even if you’re dressed as a man, staying alone in the city is dangerous, especially with the threat of Demons lingering in the kingdom. So, it had been decided, with his permission, that you’ll await their return in Kim Jungwoo’s domicile for the time being.

“This is your first time visiting Jungwoo’s place, isn’t it?” Kun asks as you walk the streets, you notice there isn’t as much foot traffic here as in the larger cities like Seorabeol and Ungjin.

“When we were kids it was always Jungwoo visiting me,” you nod slowly, “I doubt my father would’ve let me leave the village anyway…”

“I see,” he huffs out a laugh, the corner of his lips curling, “Just don’t be too surprised by what you see, okay?”

“What do you mean by that?”

“You’ll see,” he says vaguely as the two of you turn down one of the side roads.

Had Jungwoo not been standing outside of the entrance of the large residence, you never would’ve thought it to be his family home. You find your mouth lying agape as you try and count the number of buildings peeking out from atop the gate surrounding the estate before you return your attention the the Naegeumwi.

“Welcome,” Jungwoo says politely as he looks from you to Kun, “I was wondering when you’d arrive. Please, follow me inside.” The sunlight bares down onto all three of you as Jungwoo opens the gate to his lavish home, when he notices you looking wide eyed at the interior, he speaks again, “Is something wrong?”

“Oh! Uhm…”

“Don’t mind her,” Kun snorts and teases you, “I’m sure she’s trying to decide which room she’ll make into her own little infirmary.”

In a way, you’re almost entranced by the estate; a lush courtyard sprawls in front of the main building, it nearly rivals the size of the block you grew up on. Suddenly, you realize that Jungwoo’s status as heir to Kim Alcheon’s school means more than just a fancy title. Alcheon had been the Sangdaedeung, a man of great power, only topped by the position of King or Queen.

“I hope that this doesn’t change how you perceive me,” Jungwoo says almost shyly as the three of you step into the main hall, “My family, and its privileges, are only happenstance of birth.” You nod your head and he smiles, “Let’s relax for a bit... Chenle should be around here somewhere.”

As soon as his name is uttered, the warrior races out from one of the surrounding rooms, his eyes immediately lock onto Kun’s, “Hello, it’s been a while, Commander!” There’s a smile on his lips but nervousness tinges on the edge of his words.

“Spare the formalities,” Kun sighs and shakes his head, “At ease.”

“No formalities then,” Chenle nods his head eagerly.

“Is your father around?” Kun asks, looking to Jungwoo, “Or his he off serving the King?”

“He’s back in Seorabeol with King Munmu,” Jungwoo reveals, “As of now it’s only a handful of caretakers and I remaining here.”

“Huh, sounds like you can relax a little bit,” Kun says as he looks to you, “This’ll be the perfect place for you to lay low while we’re gone.”

“Thank you for letting me stay with you,” you say, turning to Jungwoo.

“It’s my pleasure,” his smile genial as he continues, “I’m happy to have you.” However, his smile soon falters as he addresses Kun, “How do you expect to fare on your mission? Fortuitously, I hope?”

“It could really go either way,” Kun huffs, crossing his arms, “It depends on how serious Gaesomun is about keeping Hanseong. But if I learned anything about fighting Baekje, we don’t know a damn thing about our enemies until we’re standing face to face with them on the battlefield.”

“Well put…” Jungwoo sighs, “The fact remains that the Hwarang shouldn’t bear this responsibility alone, though.Normally men from the army, or even us Naegeumwi, are meant to organize and lead the armies into battle, yet here we are…”

“Your main focus is to keep the King safe,” Kun reminds him, “Leave the dirty work to us, your time’ll come soon enough.”

A flicker of a smile crosses Jungwoo’s lips, “Something tells me you’re right.”

“In the meantime, watch out for her,” Kun throws you a grin, “She’s a troublemaker.” He nods towards Jungwoo, sneering coyly before quickly rushing out of the home without another word. Almost as soon as Kun leaves, Jungwoo looks to sink into a foul mood, the corners of his lips pulling down into a frown.

“Cheer up,” Chenle says at his friend’s demeanor, “None of us are really happy about how the king’s handling things. Even the legendary Qian Kun can attest to that, there’s going to be plenty of opportunities for us to help out in the war ahead.”

“Yes…” Jungwoo doesn’t reciprocate Jungwoo’s optimism, it isn’t just the Crown that has his worries tied. Ever since he’d drank the pimul he’d promised Sooyoung to not get involved with human affairs. That means if the Naegeumwi were to get more involved with the war effort, Jungwoo can’t enter the fray.

“Since I have to remain in your care for some time, Jungwoo,” you say to distract him from the thoughts you know are sending him spiraling, “if there’s anything you would like me to do around the house, please let me know.”

Chenle sighs airily, “I wish someone offered to my my personal chef.”

“You don’t—” Jungwoo seems flustered by his friend’s statement.

“If there’s anything you’d prefer to have, please let me know.”

“That’s nonsense,” Jungwoo insists quickly, “You’re my guest, it’d be rude to have you prepare my dinner.”

“You’re way too harsh on yourself,” Chenle interrupts, “This is the perfect opportunity to revel in the newlywed life without anyone to disturb you.”

“Newlywed?!” You huff, your eyes widening in embarrassment.

“What are you implying, Chenle?” Jungwoo’s voice rises as Chenle only laughs at him. “Her? As my wife?! I’m not fit to serve as a husband at this time!”

“And I’d never be remotely anywhere near his level for marriage!” You add, feeling flames licking at the sides of your cheeks and up your neck.

Chenle sighs, closing his eyes and shaking his head, “You’re both still on the ‘Woe is me, I’ll never be good enough for the other’ part of your relationship…” His eyes crack open as he looks at the two of you, “From my point of view, both of you are on the same page. And I have to admit it, I’m sort of jealous. Anyway— it’s rude of me to intrude on a lovers’ moment so I’ll be on my way.”

“C- Chenle!” You seek desperately to clear the air before the warrior has a chance to escape but the man is already halfway out the door with a Cheshire grin.

And so, Jungwoo and you are alone, the conversation still bouncing around your brains, echoing Chenle’s sentiments.

“About what he said…” Jungwoo says after a pregnant pause, “Just ignore it, okay?”

“What he said?”

“You know, about living as a couple or whatever he was spewing,” Jungwoo trips on his words, his eyes seeming to look anywhere but at you. “He has a terrible sense of humor, I’ve been meaning to tell him to fix it for some time.” His incessant politeness only exacerbates the tension tangible between the two of you, the heat of embarrassment still clawing at you.

“I understand…” You’ve reached the point where you wish your head could be buried underground and out of his presence for the time being.

“Anyway— Why don’t I escort you to your quarters?” He sighs and begins to walk through the main hall, “If you’ll just follow me.”

After finding your way to your room, Jungwoo leaves you as you unpack quietly, slowly getting accustom to your new quarters. Once unpacked, you return to the main hall to eat dinner with Jungwoo in silence before going your separate ways once more to your respective rooms. You find it hard to sleep, your mind too busy noticing the extravagant décor of the room, much more decadent than any of your accommodations at the Hwarang’s compounds had been.

As you roll over, swaddled in your plush blankets, you can’t help but wonder if Jungwoo is having issues sleeping as well. He spends his waking hours in the sunlight, something you know that drains Furies’ strength. Yet judging on how he’d been on the journey to your hometown, one would be hard pressed to notice any significant changes in his stamina. A testament to his will, more than anything, you’ve come to find that Kim Jungwoo is full of surprises.

However, just like the members of the Fury Corps, the encroaching bloodlust has been eating at him too. It’s only a matter of time until that worsens. You want to do something before that insanity consumes him entirely, but you’re not sure how to help. If there’s a solution, you need to find it quickly.

March 10th, 665 — Kim Jungwoo’s Residence, Gochang, Kingdom of Silla Before you know it, dawn seeps in through the lone window of your room, although it feels as if you’d only just closed your eyes to sleep.

Too awake now to fall back into slumber, you quickly dress yourself and search around the home for the kitchen. When Jungwoo finally finds you, you’ve set out a select few dishes in the main hall, his eyes widen as he realizes what you’ve done.

“Oh, thank you,” he smiles softly and sits across from you. “This is a first, isn’t it strange for you?” Jungwoo asks as you set down a cup of tea before him, “The fact that you’re in my home, I mean.”

“A bit,” you agree, quietly sipping at your tea. Chenle’s words still resonate cruelly around your head, no matter how hard you try to forget.

Once the two of you finish eating, Jungwoo thanks you once more, “Thank you again for doing this, I’m not sure I could have made a better meal if I tried.”

“That means a lot,” you smile in response, beginning to gather the now empty dishes. “Jungwoo?” His name falling from you as you shift the dishes in your hands, “I know it may be difficult to admit but doesn’t walking around in the daylight… hurt you? Don’t you feel any weaker?”

“Ah,” he sighs, closing his eyes momentarily, “It stings from time to time.”

“Then allow me to manage all of the minutiae of the home,” you say, setting down the stack of plates, “I’ll welcome any guests and receive any mail for you. It’s imperative that you feel well so I want you to rest as much as you can.”

“Do you really feel comfortable handling all of that on your own?” He asks, a concerned tinge to his voice.

“Of course, it’s the least I can do in return for you allowing me to stay here.”

“Your generosity is humbling,” his eyes shine as he smiles at you, “I cannot thank you enough.”

September 1st, 665 — Kim Jungwoo’s Residence, Kingdom of Silla Days and months passed quickly, Kun’s letters from Hanseong had relayed difficulty in laying siege to the city, but he seemed confident enough that they would overtake the city soon and he’d be returning to get you and reunite you with the rest of the Hwarang.

Life in Jungwoo’s home had been quiet, with little indication that the Crown is going to send the Naegeumwi of his Sodang unit out. Many of the warrior’s days had been spent resting or training. On this night, you’d cooked a large meal as Chenle had stopped by earlier in the evening and you’d invited him to stay for dinner.

“This is so good!” Chenle cries out, taking a bite of the stew you’d prepared, his eyes, brimming with faux tears, move to look at you, “You’re an excellent chef!”

“You flatter me,” you laugh, waving your hand at him.

“No, really, it was great!” Chenle insists, and then looks to Jungwoo, “I really don’t know how you do it. If I were in your shoes, eating exquisite food like this every day, I’m not sure that I’d let even my mother cook for me again.”

“Again with this?” Jungwoo sighs, “Steering things into an unwanted direction at her expense.”

“Say,” Chenle says, moving closer to his friend, his arm wrapping around his shoulders, “Tonight’s beautiful, the stars are out, the breeze is nice— Why don’t we all go for a drink?”

Before Jungwoo’s able to give a response, one of the servant’s voices rings out, “May I have a moment of your time, Lord Kim?” All of you go silent as the man pokes his head into the room, only then to walk in carrying a folded piece of parchment, “A letter arrived from Qian Kun.”

“Bring it here,” Jungwoo says, extending his hand out to grasp the paper. Chenle and you remain quiet as the servant leaves and Jungwoo begins scanning the contents of Kun’s letter. As he reads, his expression grows more dim, you and Chenle exchange worried glances.

“What does it say?” Chenle questions when it seems as if Jungwoo’s finished reading.

Without a word, Jungwoo hands him the letter. The room stays quiet, save for the sound of rustling paper as Chenle reads. Before his friend finishes, Jungwoo shoots up from his chair and storms off angrily from the room.

“Jungwoo wait!” You call out and chase after him. Whatever was in the contents of that letter had clearly upset him, you cant help but feel anxious from the anxiety. “What did the letter say?” Calling out into the darkness of night as you follow his steps outside, out of the gate of his home and to the dimly lit streets of Gochang.

Suddenly, he stops walking, turning his head over his shoulder to look at you gravely, your breath catches in your throat.

“The Hwarang forces stood no chance in fighting against Goguryeo in Hanseong. They were crushed.” Bitterness saturates his words as you feel your stomach drop.

“Crushed…?”

“It’s a disaster. They’re staying in Kaya now to recuperate from their effort, most of their men are too weak to make the journey back to Ungjin or Seorabeol.” He breathes heavily through his nose as he turns to face you, “Kun asked that I continue to allow you to remain under my care for the time being… or at least until further notice.” Jungwoo then turns once more, returning to his brisk pace as you follow after him.

Eventually you find that he’s led you to a large, empty hall, reading the name atop the doorway you realize that it’s Moon Taeil’s family’s school. It’s where he’d befriended many of the Hwarang and it must hold some nostalgic value to him. Judging by the dust that had accumulated in the corners and on the ceiling, as well as the lack of lamps lighting it, it must’ve been out of use for some time.

The halls lay eerily silent as he walks inside, not a soul to be found anywhere. Seeing this, Jungwoo stomps around once again, gritting his teeth as he balls his hands into fists. The tips of his nails dig so intently into his palm you fear that he’ll break the skin.

“Loyal warriors to the Crown my ass… We’re just dogs!” His voice cries out, reverberating around the empty hall. You flinch as the shrill hiss of steel leaving its scabbard echoes out. Jungwoo begins to swing his sword wildly in front of him, as if he were attacking an imaginary foes breathed into life by the tumult of his anger. It’s almost as if he’s possessed.

A part of you wonders why he’s taking the news so personally, why he’s lashing out at himself. Jungwoo seems bent on letting his aggression consume him, ready to burn himself hollow from the inside out.

Then, he stops, taking a minute to catch his panting breaths as his shoulders move up and down in exaggerated movements.

“Jungwoo…” you call out calmly, trying your best to retain your composure, “Why are you so upset?”

“The Hwarang… and Kun… They weren’t sent to Hanseong because anyone actually expected them to make a dent in the Goguryeo army there,” he answers through heavy breaths. “Silla sent their own men to die so that Tang could rush the enemy from the northern border, the Hwarang were only meant to draw their forces away from Pyongyang. The Tang never got to see the city though, their forces were repelled at Cholsan.”

Although news to you, it seems as if Jungwoo had known for some time that this would be the actual plan of both entities. Upon hearing the news, you’re positive that he had been aware of what that meant for the Hwarang in the detestable agreement.

“And after all these years of the Hwarang protecting the Crown—!” Jungwoo shouts out, “They’re tossed to the wolves! Is this what’s to become of us? For this war are we meant to dispose of our friends in the name of a King who doesn’t care if these men live or die? Just for territory? For superiority?!” It’s clear that Jungwoo is extremely distraught, you were unaware he could ever become this angry.

He heaves out another breath before sheathing his sword and closing his eyes, murmuring, “No… I’m also responsible for this happening. Like the other Naegeumwi… I was complicit and did nothing.”

You wonder if he hadn’t resigned himself to the fate that Sooyoung had offered… would he have been able to make a difference? If he hadn’t agreed to the conditions, maybe he could’ve fought alongside all of his friends. Surely his desire to do so lingers within him…

“Things aren’t as they were… How could they be, really?” You say to him, he cracks his eyes open and frowns. “I know you’re being pulled in many directions, I can see it in your eyes. It’s tearing you apart from the inside.” Voice wavering for a moment as his gaze truly does reflect the anguish he’s suffering, “I know how much you respect the Commander and the rest of the Hwarang. No one believes you abandoned them, nor do you deserve to feel guilty about not being there.”

Perhaps your attempt to comfort may sound hollow, given that your perception of all that plagues him is thin. Even so, you can barely stand to watch him sink into the depths of his own disappointment.

It takes a moment for him to take in what you’d said, but soon his brow softens and a smile curls onto his lips, “…Thank you. You have a knack for cheering me up.” The smile is brief, leaving seconds later as he purses his lips in thought. If you were able to reach inside of him and pull him from this forlornness, you would. It may be selfish, but what can you do?

[reverseblackholeofwords]

Alltha

(Here’s another teaser! This might be the last one before we release the first chapter... maybe one more. We’ll see! This one is much fluffier than the last one, for sure, though haha)

Medina, Ohio

June 1998

    Sunlight hitting one side of his dark hair, Nathan Smith woke as the rusted Dodge truck rolled over a pothole in the gravel and up the driveway of a prim and proper two-story farmhouse, all white with painted shutters and window boxes spilling over with petunias. Through a layer of grime covering the windshield, Nate could pick out a tire swing hanging from a large oak tree just around the side of the house, a bike parked against the garage wall, and a vegetable garden overflowing with ripe tomatoes, cucumbers, and squash. It was like something out of a dream, a weird, unicorn jumping over the rainbow dream.

    The pick-up truck squealed to a stop just outside the garage where a squeaky-clean minivan was parked. John Smith cut the engine and shouldered the driver’s seat door open. His combat boots crunched in the gravel around the side of the truck to the bed where he pulled out a duffel bag full of clothes and a green army surplus bag.

    “Come on, kid,” his gruff voice called out as he moved the green bag into a silver tool chest in the back of the truck and locked it tight, “You really going to sit in there all day? Get your stuff.”

    Nate, barely nine years old but still small for his age, reacted like he’d stuck his finger in a socket and hopped out of the passenger’s side onto thick, green grass. His black Converse, practically falling off his feet, raced around to stand at his dad’s side, right where he belonged as he took his bag and slung it onto his thin shoulder. He was certain that neither he or his dad were supposed to be in a place this nice, though. Dingy motels, the tiny guest rooms of old friends or family, sure, but a magazine cover come to life? No way.

    Then the screen door on the front porch swung open, and a woman with long blonde curls and an apron on over her jeans and simple white blouse leaned out to wave at them. “John!” she called and came down the front steps to meet them. Nate froze, half behind his father, when her moss green eyes turned on him. “And this must be Nathan! You’ve gotten so big since I last saw you! I bet you don’t even remember me.” She extended her hand. Her nails were short, painted pink, and Nate still couldn’t move.

    John cleared his throat, and Nate’s spine straightened, his hand shooting forward like a shot. He gave her his best smile as the cicadas whirred and a gentle, summer wind blew.

    “Hi,” he finally muttered and dropped his gaze back to his grass-stained shoes and the ankles of his jeans that were so long they had ripped in the back beneath his heels.

    Mary hugged his dad, and Nate could smell her perfume - more flowers, he thought. Mostly he was just amazed, unable to imagine what kind of world a lady like this must live in. But, hey, if this was her house… And suddenly his eyes detected movement up on the porch again, someone behind the screen door peeked out at them. Mary followed his gaze and made a motion with her hand like she was calling someone out.

    “Come on, Matthew! Come meet the infamous Smiths!” She said those last two words like a joke, but Nate had heard them before, spat like poison. He shivered a bit in the summer heat as a boy not much older than him pushed out from behind the door and bounded down the steps of the front porch in cargo shorts and a fresh t-shirt, his brown hair with a tint of his mother’s gold shining in the sun. “This is John,” Mary explained as one of her hands came to rest on Matthew’s shoulder, “and his son Nathan. They’re going to be staying with us now, remember?”

    Matthew regarded both the Smiths with sharpened interest in his hazel eyes, but soon, he offered a wide grin that shone with silver braces. “I’m Matthew,” he said to John, and to Nate, “I’m eleven and a half. How old are you?”

    To which Nathan quietly replied, “Nine,” watching his shoes again.

    Mary gave her son’s shoulder a gentle squeeze. “Matty, why don’t you show Nathan around the house a little while John and I talk some things over? Put his things in your room, okay?”

    “My room?” Matthew whined, but Mary shushed him.

    At the thought of leaving his dad’s side, Nate stiffened again, but John gave him a gentle shove towards Matthew who tilted his head at Nate and frowned, a little unsure of these two intruders, “Okay.”

    They climbed up the front porch steps together and into the house where the summer heat slipped away and smells from the kitchen made Nate’s stomach rumble. The carpet beneath his shoes sucked most of the noise away as Matt raced towards the staircase only to realize that Nate lagged behind, looking at everything. Photographs lined the walls of Matthew and Mary in a hundred different places, smiling and laughing. Little knick knacks adorned shelves stuffed with books. Fresh flowers sat in a glass vase full of water on the dining room table where a big window looked out onto the front lawn where John and Mary were talking in hushed tones.

    “Um, are you okay?” Matthew took a step towards the scrawny, younger boy with the oversized hoodie drooping off one shoulder. “Hello?” Matt waved a hand in front of Nate’s eyes, but the kid frankly looked terrified as he watched John and Mary through the window. Watched as his dad kissed Mary, smiling at her, happy, and felt a realization drop heavy into the pit of his stomach.

    They were staying here, and not just for a few days.

    Nate dropped his bag on the floor and bolted for the backdoor that he saw past the staircase, through the kitchen. He launched himself down the back steps and dropped behind the big oak tree he noticed when they drove up. His head between his knees, dust kicked up from his sudden stop settled on his dark hair. He tugged at the hoodie around him, then at his hair. Nothing seemed to stop the feeling that he was being chased by something.

    As he tried to calm his erratic breathing, Nate heard the backdoor open and close again. Footsteps through grass thudded closer until they froze, a few steps away, and the boy bristled, waiting for them to approach. Instead, the footstops turned away, and someone sank down onto the tire swing, the rope creaking under the sudden weight. 

    After a moment, his curiosity got the better of him, and Nate peaked up over his folded arms, quickly spotting who had found him. Matthew kicked at the ground with the toes of his shoes in an attempt to spin himself. He glanced up at Nate, noting that Nate was watching him, a bewildered look on his face.

    “My mom says I should be tall enough to push myself in this now, but it’s still hard.” His toes brushed the dry dirt patch beneath the swing as he made another attempt, but instead, he squawked in surprise when he suddenly slipped into the center hole of the tire, stuck kicking his feet helplessly. “I’m stuck!”

    Nate glanced up at Matthew through scared, angry tears before hopping onto the tire and pulling Matt up out of the hole. He dropped down onto the swing beside Matthew with a note of pride in his blooming smile.

    “Thanks!” Matt grinned, a hint of mischief in his hazel eyes, and Nate thought that maybe he’d been tricked somehow. And that maybe he didn’t mind so much. “I guess maybe it really does take two people, huh?”

    “Nah,” Nate said, leaning back from Matt and letting his head hang out as they spun slowly. “It just took one person with ‘Alltha.’”

    Matt screwed up his nose. “Alltha?”

    “All-tha brains!” Nate shouted and giggled at his own joke as the other boy snorted.

    Matt leaned towards Nate and poked him playfully until Nate wiggled his way back into a sitting position to look at him. “Will you push me?”

    Nate scoffed. “You push me!”

    Matt raised an eyebrow at him. He wasn’t sure what to think of the kid, as skinny and frightened as a stay kitten, but with undeniable spark. Matt always did want a little brother, though. “Rock, paper, scissors?” he challenged.

    “Best two out of three!” Nate shouted back, and they set about deciding who would push who first as Mary watched from the window.

    “John,” she whispered and motioned for him to come over. He peered out the window just as Nate hopped off the swing and spun Matt around just as fast as he could before hopping back on. They rode around and around, clinging to one another just to stay on, laughing so hard that John and Mary could hear them even inside.

    “So,” John asked and pressed a kiss to Mary’s hair, “have you picked out a dress yet?”

[yeolsmuffin]

Crumbling Down [M] - Sehun || Four

Paring: sehunXreader, baekhyunXreader

Genre: Smut, Angst || Best friend!Sehun

Summary: When friends with benefits goes horribly wrong.

Word Count: 11.8k

Trigger warning: abusive themes

Teaser | One | Two | Three | Four | Five | Six |

Sehun’s POV Parts : Two

It would be so easy to admit you had been in love with Sehun all this time. Sure, things with him would probably end but it seemed that would be the best situation. As they say, if you love something, then set it free.

You knew that ending things wouldn’t be easy but yet, it was the best way to redeem yourself. If you didn’t end things here and now, your relationship with Sehun was doomed. Even with that in mind, you couldn’t help but feel the crazy switch click in your head - making ending things, the furthest thing from your mind. Even if you would ruin your friendship with Sehun forever, you didn’t care.

All you could see was revenge and you wanted to hurt Sehun just a fraction of how much he hurt you. You were out for blood and this time you would do more than just blow Jongin.

No, you weren’t even going to waste a single breath on getting mad and showing your anger this time.  

Instead, you were just going to get even.

Everything between you and Sehun came to a standstill. The two of you stopped talking, touching and even seeing each other. It wasn't due to his wants, of course, but you had made yourself impossible to reach. Sehun spent many nights talking outside your bedroom door and begging you to come out, but you refused. You didn't even reply.

It was only a matter of time before you moved out and left Sehun to his own but you still loved him and you were still hurt.

It was stupid, childish, and a mistake to even think about getting Sehun back but as the next couple of weeks passed by and you continued ignoring him, you only wanted to get him back more.

The tears had stopped and you weren't crying over him any longer but there were nights you would curl up in bed and think about how much Sehun had used your body. It didn’t matter that the marks he would leave on your skin were gone but your mind kept reminding you about where they were. Sehun was stitched into your skin and you weren't sure there was a way to get him out.

Instead of spending most of your nights in and stuck inside your bedroom, you found comfort in a new friend – Baekhyun. You found yourself avoiding Kyungsoo and Junmyeon because you were afraid that if you talked to either one of them for more than a couple of minutes, they would talk you out of your plans. Plans to make Sehun crumble just as much as he made you crumble.

He was the love of your life and you wanted him to feel just a portion of the pain he had put on you.

It wasn't like things could end well now so how much worse could the damage actually get?

Baekhyun wasn't Sehun and he definitely wasn't Junmyeon, but he filled the empty part of you that needed a friend. You opened up to him about Sehun and your plans because Baekhyun wasn't close to you. Even if Baekhyun said it was a stupid idea, you wouldn't have listened.

But he didn't think it was a bad idea at all. He actually was encouraging you to get back at the man who had all but thrown your heart on the floor and then, well he offered a solution you hadn't thought of.

Using Baekhyun to get back at Sehun.

Of course, you weren't easy to convince that you should use someone like Baekhyun for something so hazardous. Especially after how you had damaged Jongin and Sehun's relationship. The two boys were great friends and when you went behind Sehun and got caught hooking up with Jongin, Sehun didn't talk to him again.

It made you wonder why it mattered. Sehun said he didn't love you in a romantic sense but yet all of his actions threw that logic straight out the window. Maybe Sehun did love you... and if he did, you wanted him to be as heartbroken as you were.

Which led you to the conversation with Baekhyun when the two of you were together.

It was a cold night and the two of you were bundled up in puffy winter jackets and scarfs as you walked the streets around your apartment, snow crunching beneath your feet.  

"You should move out. You can come stay with me, ya know? Chanyeol was my roommate but moved out a few months ago. I wouldn't mind having you around," he said nudging you with his shoulder.

"That's sweet," you replied as you stuffed your hands further into your coat. "But I want to get back at him first. If I just leave without getting revenge I feel like I'll regret it." No, you were going to regret it no matter what decision you made. But you had long ago accepted that this journey with Sehun was nothing but regrets.

Junmyeon would have talked you out of your choice to fight fire with fire, but Baekhyun was excited by it. "I think it's time that a guy like him got a taste of his own medicine. It's obvious you love the guy. I mean obvious. Trust me, he knows you love him deep down but that stupid playboy mentality of his won't allow him to hear it. He needs a wakeup call." You watched Baekhyun was you talked and noticed the way his cheeks were flushed from the cold and you couldn't help but smile. He looked so sweet and innocent but you had already known better from the flirting he had done when the two of you met. "So what is the plan?"

You shrugged and averted your gaze. "I know what you probably think about someone like me who is hooking up with my best friend-"

Baekhyun stopped you, "No. You have no idea what I think." He grabbed your arm and the two of you came to a stop on the sidewalk. "You love Sehun and you have been exclusive to him for months. You blew one other guy in that time and felt really bad about it. I think you're just in love. Don't put yourself down the way Sehun does."

A smile crossed your lips as you looked at Baekhyun. His gentle face and words weren't something you deserved. "Sehun has used my body in a lot of ways and I guess I feel tainted. Regardless of that, I'm not one who just sleeps around the way Sehun does. I'm more of a relationship type of girl."

Pulling you along with him gently, Baekhyun turned a corner. "I know that, silly. Don't defend yourself for your actions, okay? Your choices are your own and I won't judge you for them. But speaking of choices, if you're going to fight fire with fire, how will you pull it off? Will you hook up with random guys?"

You let a puff of air out of your lungs, your breath a fog in front of you. "I don't know. I guess. It's not something I'm good at."

He was leading you away from your apartments and further down the street towards his. "Let's go warm up at my place. I doubt you really want to have the conversation around Sehun."

You nodded and the two of you spent the next few minutes in silence until you reached his apartment and he led you inside the warm apartment.

"Better?" He asked as he gently tugged your scarf off and hung it on the coat rack by the door. You blushed as he helped you out of your coat before he even had his own off. "Now," he said as he ran tap water in a metal kettle in his kitchen. "What's the plan?"

You leaned against one of his kitchen counters and bit your lip nervously. "I told you that I'm not sure Baekhyun. I just don't feel right letting Sehun off without doing something."

After setting the full kettle down and pressing a few buttons, Baekhyun turned towards you and crossed his arms. "I have a proposition."

Raising a brow, you nodded. "Go on."

"I'll help you," he said simply.

"Elaborate."

He paused for a moment and brought a hand up to his chin. "You can use me to get back at Sehun."

Your eyes nearly popped out. "Use you?"

Baekhyun shrugged. "It's better than the other alternative, right? Hooking up with random guys. Why not use someone you know instead?"

You put your hands up in front of you and closed your eyes. "Baekhyun, we have grown to be friends. The point of hooking up with random guys is so I don't have to deal with the emotions. There's already a mess of emotions surrounding me and Sehun and the last thing I need is to add to that. "

"What? You're going to just find a random guy and take them back to your and Sehun's place every night? You know you will struggle to do that. If Sehun sees you with a guy and the guy doesn't know what's going on, it will be so easy for him to talk you out of whatever you're going to do with the guy. Let me be that guy. I know the deal, I'm attracted to you, and I care about your wellbeing." Baekhyun was playing it off as if it were nothing. So maybe you didn't quite have the guts for the random hookups but you also didn't have any warm part of your heart left and you couldn't take ruining the relationship you had formed with Baekhyun even if it was still fresh.

He was fun and able to distract you from the bullshit with Sehun. That made you fear that having sex with Baekhyun would only complicate things. "That last line is enough to make me decline your offer. I appreciate the thought but you say you care about me. Sex will only make that worse. Trust me. I didn't think I had any feelings for Sehun but it didn't take long for that to change. And once it does, you can't go back."

Baekhyun advanced on you. "Y/N, I understand it all. I just want to help you and I know that not only can I help you give Sehun a taste of his own medicine, but I can make you forget about whatever he did that had you so hooked."

His hands wrapped around the edge of the counter, boxing you in his arms. "What has me hooked is love."

"It's time to get over from that then. What did Sehun ever do to deserve your love?" Baekhyun whispered as he searched your face.

A shaky breath escaped your lips but you couldn't find any words. What had Sehun done to make you love him? Was it a false belief that you had? Maybe since you had associated sex with love for so long, you were confused. Sehun held you, told you sweet things, and he was your best friend but at some point you had to admit that he wasn't the one that caught you when you fell. It was Junmyeon time and time again who had found you on the brink of insanity and brought you back down without intimacy. Junmyeon literally showered with you and cared for you the way you imagined a friend should and never once did he make you feel the way Sehun did.

Junmyeon if anyone deserved your love because he would never use your body the way Sehun did. So what did Sehun have that made you love him when you could have loved Junmyeon?

Nothing.

There was nothing Sehun did to make you love him and it occurred to you that maybe you had fabricated the person you thought Sehun was. What was love if you didn't understand the reason you loved someone? What was the point?

Baekhyun was right. There was nothing Sehun had ever done to earn your love. When bad things in your life happened, he was nowhere to be found. You were his dollface, his toy, the person he went to when things were rough for him but yet when it was rough for you, he kept his distance. It was like he explicitly did so to avoid loving you.  

"You're right," you admitted solemnly as you lifted a hand to your mouth. "I can't think of anything that makes me love him."

Baekhyun lifted a hand to your shoulder. "You're confused. The reason you love Sehun is because of the sexual connection you have and what better way to break that than to make a sexual connection with someone else?"

"What if I fall for you next? And then we're just in this circle of me getting attached to everyone?" It was a good question. Baekhyun was attractive, sweet, and had his life together. It would be easy to fall for someone like him who took you on walks during night time in the snow and then brought you back to his house for hot chocolate. The more you thought about it, the more your cheeks reddened. Falling for Baekhyun you thought might even be easier than falling for Sehun because unlike with Sehun, Baekhyun genuinely seemed to care for your emotions.

He shrugged. "So what? Why do you have such a negative connotation with love, Y/N?" He lifted his hand back to his chin. "Ah, that's because of Oh Sehun. Well listen, love isn't negative. I'm not some playboy asshole who is afraid of it. If you want to love me, love me because the chances of you falling for me are the same as my chances of falling for you." You just stared up at him and he smiled at you softly. "I'm not saying we aim for love but I want to help you shake this bad boy and if we fall in love in the process, is it that bad? I'm not going to lead you on, Y/N. I'm not going to hurt you."

You sighed. "Baekhyun, I'm not ready for love again."

"You want to hurt Sehun by sleeping with someone else basically right in front of him but how are you going to do that any other way? Hookup with Kyungsoo? Chanyeol? I don't care what you do, Y/N. I will support you regardless. I'm just giving you an option from a man who actually respects you and won't try to complicate things. I'm being completely honest with you. I think you're beautiful and I'm attracted to you. I would be honored to be the man you use but in the process, I won't be using you. And I won't be keeping you a secret."

Why was he so enticing? Why was he looking down at you with such sincerity that you thought you might break? "We need to be mindful if we do this, Baekhyun," you sighed. "I don't want to complicate anything."

His hand pressed to your cheek. "I will help you uncomplicate everything then."

And so that was what you and Baekhyun had decided to do. You agreed to have a whatever the fuck a twisted ass relationship like this was called, relationship.  

Although, Baekhyun made you promise him a few things.

In this sexual relationship you were about to enter, you needed to be completely honest with him. Baekhyun explained many times that his goal wasn't just to make Sehun jealous but to show you how intimacy could be with someone who respected you. Baekhyun wanted your feelings during sex to be pure so there was going to be none of you faking it or pretending to enjoy yourself. If you wouldn't enjoy yourself, Baekhyun didn't want to do it.

You agreed because, by the glint in his eyes, you could tell he had no intentions of sex being unenjoyable.

The two of you started to spend even more time together before actually starting on the plan because Baekhyun really wanted you guys to get to know each other. Just as you suspected, he was just as sweet and flirty. He was constantly taking you to dinner and movies and somehow, you found yourself getting wrapped up in a protective Baekhyun bubble. Still, you were avoided Junmyeon and you knew Kyungsoo was relying any information he got straight to your best friend since you may have "accidentally" looked over his shoulder once.

Kyungsoo didn't seem to be tipped off and while Baekhyun wasn't going to keep your relationship a secret, you let him know that Kyungsoo wasn't to be trusted.

Maybe Junmyeon wouldn't march over to your house and take you away from Sehun and Baekhyun like your dreams had told you he would, but you didn't need him looking at you with disappointment again. It was stupid to use another man to get back at Sehun. Fuck, was it stupid. But it was all you had and you had to do something to make Sehun hurt.

You had assumed you looked happier in the previous weeks as opposed to when you were with Sehun because Kyungsoo asked you if you had started smoking pot. Was it really that odd to see you happy?

It made you wonder if you could just entertain the idea of Baekhyun and cut Sehun out once and for all but the moment you ran into him that same day, you knew you couldn't.

Sehun wasn't supposed to be home till seven and it was four. You had his schedule memorized like your favorite song so when you opened the door and he was sitting on the couch staring at you, you almost fainted.

The way your heart raced made you grab your chest and you started gasping for air.

"Surprised?" Sehun asked bitterly but you could hear the way his voice shook with hurt.

You just glared at him and roughly shut the door behind you.

Sehun was up in an instant and grabbing your arm. You twisted from his grip the best you could, but he held tightly. This had been the first time you would be confronted face to face in a month. Some may wonder how it was possible you were able to avoid your own roommate but when you spent months trying to avoid him in the first place because of how weak he made you, it wasn't that hard. "We need to talk," he said roughly.

The way your body started to shake made your spine tingle. "I have nothing to say to you," you gritted out.

Sehun spun you so that you had to look at him but he was twisting your arm in the process and causing pain to shoot down to your elbow. "Well, I have a lot to say to you."

"You're hurting me, Sehun," you whimpered as you squirmed under his hold.

He loosened his grip and you tried to pull away again. "I guess I have to hurt you to get you to listen to me."

Automatically, you dug your nails into his wrist to try to get him to release his hand but he just got rougher, causing you to cry out in pain and tears to prick your eyes.

"Stop struggling and talk to me," he pleaded but you continued to squirm until he backed you into one of the walls in the living room. Tears spilled from your eyes not just from pain but from the proximity of Sehun. He released his hold on you and when you looked down you could see the bright red mark he had left on your skin. It was stinging from the contact with the air and you swore it already began to bruise.

His eyes probed yours as a tears dripped down your cheeks. "Is this what you want? You like me being hurt?"

Sehun's fist slammed against the wall next to you, "No. I don't want you to hurt. Which is why I just want to talk to you but you've been making it difficult."

You averted your gaze. "Talking is never talking with you. It always turns into sex."

He was silent for a few moments. "You didn't seem to protest in those instances."

"Now is different. I don't want it to turn into that and I don't want to talk."

Out of the side of your eyes, you could see the way he clenched his jaw and you could see the arm that was encasing you against the wall, start to shake. "It won't turn into sex. I swear. This is about us right now and I don't want anything to cloud that, okay?"

You turned to look at him, "What about us? I'm your property?"

It was hard to look at the man you loved like this. You felt so angry at him but so sad at the same time. Deep in his eyes, you still saw the man you loved but when you avoided his eyes and saw the surface of him, you saw the man who had broken you. Still, you weren't sure why you loved him but you did and sometimes love didn't have answers. Although, Baekhyun made you think that loving someone was more than just that. There were reasons to loving someone and if you didn't have reasons, what did you have?

"No, dollface," but when he said it you cringed. "Sometimes I say things before thinking and I just don't know how to get things straight when it involves you. We need to talk about what I did. I want to repair our friendship before it's too late."

You scoffed, "You should have thought about that before fucking two other girls and well, shit, I'm not sure I can trust you so maybe it was more than that."

A look of offensive crossed his face. "I would never lie to you. It was only twice and I will never do it again, okay? I'm serious. I'll commit to only having you. You're enough."

"You committed before, Sehun," you didn't have the power to fight and for once you didn't find yourself submitting to Sehun. You wouldn't take it from him this time. Maybe it was Baekhyun who instilled you with confidence or maybe it was you. "Commitment isn't something you're good at."

He shook his head and you could see how glassy his eyes were. You wondered if that's the look he saw in your eyes every time he hurt you. "I can be."

"It's too late."

"Why? Why is it too late?" He questioned desperately.

"Because I already love you." The words let themselves out and you were too defeated to even fight them as you saw Sehun drop his arms from around you and freeze.

You looked at him in disbelief as he glared at you. "I told you not to love me. I told you I can't give anyone the world – even you."

What did you expect?  

Well, you didn't expect to find Sehun waiting for you in the first place. You surely didn't expect to admit that you loved him and even though you should have, you didn't expect him to outright reject you.

"I don't do love. You know that."

Clenching your fists, you pushed him out of your way and moved back towards the front door, "You told me I was your world. You've showered me with so much affection so what do you expect? Do you think that I'll just take all the special treatment you give me and pretend it's not happening? Clearly, I didn't choose to fucking love you because if I could, I wouldn't love you one fucking bit," you spat at him. Sehun advanced on you again but you warded him off with your hand. "You wanted this. You convinced me of this stupid relationship and now you act surprised that I love you?"

Sehun pushed your hand out of his way and grabbed your arm again, "I told you not to. I told you I'm not made for relationships. You're too good for me and I can never be the man you want. I messed up a simple exclusive friend with benefits relationship and there is no way I wouldn't mess up a real one."

"I know that," you yelled trying to keep him from holding you.

"Then why do you love me? What – did you expect me to love you back?"

"No – I... I knew you would never love me the way I love you but-," you yelled.

You saw the anger rising in Sehun's face. "You thought you would be an exception? Right?" You shook your head. That wasn't it. You knew it would end in flames but sometimes love was accepting that it wouldn't be perfect. "You aren't. I can't change. Not for anyone. Not for you. I won't love you," he growled.

"Fuck you," you screamed at him and pushed him away from you. "You don't need to be a dick about it. I know you won't love me."

He grabbed for you again, causing enough pressure to make you cry out in pain. "It's what is best for you. It's best for you to hear it exactly how it is. Get the fucking delusions out of your head that I might love you back because I won't."

Using all your strength, you kept pushing and kicking at him until he released you. It made you angry that Sehun thought you had some sort of dreams that he would love you back. You scoffed. You weren't that stupid. He wouldn't even hear you out and it made you hate him. It made you want to do the worst you could to him. Looking down at both of your arms, you saw the marks he had left and you looked at them in disgust. For someone that you loved, he sure hurt you physically and mentally. "I fucking hate you," you screamed at the top of your lungs.

Sehun straightened out his shirt. "Don't lie. You just told me you loved me, you fucking idiot."

That's all it took for your vision to be overcome with red. "Fucking idiot? I'm a fucking idiot? You are a fucking idiot. I'm the only girl who will ever fucking love you like this. Ever. And your losing me. Don't you dare decide to turn this around on me because I'm so fucking done with you. I know you love me too even if it isn't as much as what I feel. I know it's in there and you're too much of a bitch to admit it."

"If you loved me so much then why did I catch you sucking Jongin's dick?"

Before you could process anything, you were lifting your fist and jamming it into the side of Sehun's head. He groaned and grasped where you hit him as he looked at you in horror. "Fucking bitch," he muttered.

"What did you say?" You screeched.

He stood up straight. "I said you fucking bitch. Go, run off and suck Jongin's dick the way you did last time I upset you."

You hadn't realized that tears were spilling down your cheeks until you felt the tears drip down onto your palm. You wiped them away. Sehun's physical and emotional abuse was shocking and it made everything inside you feel fuzzy and disconnected but you couldn't let him treat you that way. You wouldn't be meek and take what he dished out. "Maybe I fucking will," you spat out and reached for your purse that had fallen on the ground before rushing out the door and slamming it behind you.

As you hurried down the steps, you sobbed but you didn't stop. Sehun opened the door behind you after a few moments. You assumed he had realized the severity of the situation because he called for you and it sounded like he was crying too – but you didn't look back.

You couldn't turn to anyone but Baekhyun and even though he was all he had, he was who you wanted. Kyungsoo probably would have fainted and Junmyeon would have beat the living shit out of Sehun. Baekhyun would understand it all.

When he answered the phone, you couldn't help but sob. "What happened?" His rushed voice asked.

"Sehun – I... we had an argument," you cried into the phone.

"Where are you?"

"At my place."

Baekhyun sighed, "Start walking towards my apartment, I'm on my way."

You didn't walk far before you saw Baekhyun's car speeding towards you and jolting to a stop when he reached you. He leaned over and pulled the door open for you. Once you were tucked inside, he turned around and drove back towards his apartment which wasn't far from where you lived.

He glanced over at you and his eyes grazed over the marks on your arms and he nearly slammed on his breaks. "What the fuck did he do to you?"

"It's fine," but when you looked down, bruises were already forming. "Oh."

"Did he hurt you?" His eyes glanced over at you and then back to the road several times.

"I'll explain it when we get to your place, Baekhyun. Focus on driving, I'm okay."

↣♜ ♜ ♜↢

When you told Baekhyun what had happened, he stomped around the living room of his apartment for so long that you knew he was going to get a complaint from the neighbors below him. He struggled in not telling Kyungsoo about what happened because Baekhyun so badly wanted to hurt Sehun after what he had said and done to you.

Once he came down from his anger, he told you he was ready to start the plan. You guys had spent weeks going on little dates and learning more about each other to lead up to this moment and now that it was here, you were nervous. You had already admitted to loving Sehun and it blew up the way you knew it would – so did you really need the plan?

But your mind screamed at you as the bruises on your arms turned to a purple color that you needed to get Sehun back. You hadn't returned home since the incident a week ago and since you paid most of the rent for the place, it was your home too and you wouldn't let Sehun run you out of it.

So this time, Baekhyun came to spend the night with you and you found out he worked at a magazine company that was a few buildings down from your work, the two of you could go to work together.

"If you don't want to do this, we don't have to. We can just cuddle like we do when we watch movies," he said giving you a wink.

Your cheeks heated up. "Baekhyun," you whined, as he drove to your house and you watched the snow covered streets as you drove by.

"What? Are you embarrassed?" He teased and even though you were looking out the window, you knew he had a naughty glint in his eyes the same way he did every time he teased you.

"No," you protested. "I want to go through with it," you whispered. You did. Something about Baekhyun drew you to him and since the incident with Sehun, you found yourself finding comfort in him a lot. Baekhyun was warm and every time he held you, you felt your heart press against your chest.  

You felt like you should have been worried to be intimate with Baekhyun but when you guys spoke about it, he discussed it in such a way that eased every worry your mind tried to find. He wasn't going to pull a Sehun on you and that was all that mattered.

It could be said you had a crush on Baekhyun but it was still nothing compared to how you had felt about Sehun. But how did you feel about Sehun now? It was confusing because you found yourself hating him while craving him and it gave you whiplash.

Once you and Baekhyun had arrived, Baekhyun grabbed your hand before walking you inside. His hand enveloped yours with warmth and he gave you a small squeeze. "If you want to leave, say the words and we can spend the night in my bed." You eyed his face as you registered his words and he gave you a laugh. "That can be sexually or not sexually. Whatever you want." He poked your nose with his free hand, "Believe it or not, you're growing on me."

"Whatever," you muttered as you tried to ignore the heat in your cheeks.

"You like me too," he whispered as you opened the front door and walked in. Baekhyun closed it tightly behind you and ran right into your back since you had stopped right at the entrance. Sehun was looking at the two of you and his gaze went straight past yours and to Baekhyun.

"Dollface?" He questioned and you could feel Baekhyun's body harden behind you.

You reached for Baekhyun and reattached your hands, trying to calm him down. "What?" You asked.

"I was just wondering when you'd come home." Baekhyun stepped out from behind you and Sehun's eyes instantly sized the shorter boy up. You could tell Baekhyun was doing everything he could to not hiss at the boy. "Who's this?" He asked in a condescending tone.

Baekhyun's grip on you tightened. "This is my friend Baekhyun. I met him through Kyungsoo."

Sehun's eyes narrowed and he nodded a few times, "Are you guys going out?"

You furrowed your brows, "No. He's staying the night."

Sehun let out a laugh. "What?"

"Is there a problem, Sehun?"

He scoffed, "No. I'm just wondering why you're bringing home a guy. I didn't think you were the type of girl... but I guess I should know better."

Baekhyun opened his mouth but you put a hand on his chest, "I guess you don't really know me, do you?" You sneered and pulled Baekhyun along to your room.

The moment you had the door closed, Baekhyun started rambling. "Wow, he is the biggest cunt ever. Like really? Who the fuck does he think he is? And sizing me up like that? I'm much other than the little shit."

You laughed and wrapped your arms gently around Baekhyun's waist. "That's just who he is sometimes. He's possessive over his property," you added, voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Funny because his property will be saying my name tonight," Baekhyun hooked his arms around your waist and pulled you into him even more. "Should you ask for permission?"

And maybe it was the anger but you found yourself even more compelled by Baekhyun than normal. Not only did his arms make you feel safe, but Baekhyun smelled amazing and it made your senses fuzzy. He pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead while waiting for you to answer but you couldn't seem to form any words.

"I'll make him realize all his stupidity and I'll show you a new world," he said gently.

You looked up at him, his teeth biting his lip and enticing you. "I've seen it all. Sehun has various kinks."

Baekhyun rolled his eyes, "Yes, but has he ever been sensual with you? Fuck all that rough and possessive shit you guys did. How about like actual sweet and easy?"

Sehun was sweet and easy a few times but more often than not, you ended up being bit, scratched, and having your hair pulled. Sehun wasn't one for gentle – at least not the way Baekhyun made it seem.  

"And does he always call you that sick name?"

You nodded slowly as you stared at Baekhyun's lips, half-disconnected from the conversation. "More times than not."

"He calls you that in a way that makes him seem above you. I bet that's his kink. He wants to be more than the person he is with. With me? You're equal... well, maybe not even that. You are probably above me because Y/N," he said slowly as he tilted your chin up, "I care about your needs."

He bent until his lips hovered yours and you whined when he just stayed frozen there. You wanted Baekhyun to kiss you. His lips looked perfect and your body was practically begging to feel them. "Baekhyun," you whined.

"I want your consent. I want full consent before we do anything. I may be doing this to help you get him back but like I've said before, this isn't hooking up just with the intention of making his little stupid balls bust. This is about you too and I need you to be sure."

You nodded.

He sighed but stayed where he was, his breath feathering against your lips. "Full consent, Y/N. Use your words."

"I'm sure. I'm sure that I want you, Baekhyun."

You watched as his lips turned into a smirk before he pressed his lips against yours.

Those sparks they talk about in romance novels? You felt them. It was more like an eruption of tingles in your stomach but you knew it had to be sparks. His lips caressed yours as his arms encased you and you pressed yourself closer to him. You moaned out without thinking, loving the feel of Baekhyun against you. His tongue explored your mouth when you had given him permission and you could feel the groans he let out vibrate into your mouth.

His hands trailed underneath the shirt of his that you were wearing and you felt the goosebumps form from his simple touch.

You leaned into him as much as you possibly could as Baekhyun kissed you in a way that made you feel special. He kissed you like you were the best thing in the world and it made you wonder how Baekhyun saw you. Sure, Sehun kissed you like he wanted you and said things to make you feel special but when it came down to it, you were his dollface and it didn't get deeper than that.

Baekhyun's hands trailed up to your waist, pushing your shirt up as he went. You couldn't help but tremble with his touch. It was a strange feeling to be getting intimate with someone other than the one you loved but yet, you didn't feel remorseful. Baekhyun's touch made everything feel okay. Was it okay? With Jongin, you had felt guilty even though you didn't regret it but Baekhyun was making you feel anything but guilt.

You were so consumed by his kiss that you didn't notice that your shirt was almost off until he broke the kiss to pull it the rest of the way off.  Baekhyun looked you over and smiled at you shirtless but was quick to remove your bra and set it gently on the chair nearby him. When his hands returned to you, the trailed up towards your breasts and Baekhyun used no more than the slightest featherlight touch across your nipples. His lips met your neck, pressing the littlest kisses down the groove of it and then over your shoulder. Your body was continually being racked with shivers and you couldn't help the moans that fell from your lips.

He continued his gentle assault by moving his fingertips from your nipples and out towards your sides. His fingers were almost tickling but it was more of a sensual feeling.

His fingers traced teasingly down to the leggings you were wearing and he hooked his fingers inside, pulling them slightly. Baekhyun saw the way you trembled for him and it made him smile. "Are you nervous?" He teased as he licked his lips.

Shaking your head, you stared up at him watching the way Baekhyun bit his lip. "No, I feel like I'm just in a sensory overload."

"Have you never had that before?"

You shrugged, "Baekhyun, you make me feel like nobody has."

His face lit up and that made him pull your leggings and underwear down in one quick movement. He bent down, gently lifting each leg and pulling your feet from the clothes. He smiled up at you from his place on the floor before he pressed his lips to the inside of your calves and worked his way up your thighs slowly. His lips found your pubic bone, pressing soft kisses against it before coming to stand fully in front of you.

The two of your lips met again and you were overwhelmed by his warmth. As he asked for entrance to your mouth, he rubbed his hand over your mound and down to your core. His fingers splayed over your clit and rubbed gently. You were putty in his hands and your body went slack as Baekhyun used his other arm to hold you up by the waist.  

His fingers urged you to further open your thighs and when you did, he pressed one long digit against your entrance. Circles were made with his finger before he groaned against your mouth in approval and you were sure it was because of how wet you were. His finger sunk into your heat and you let out a loud moan that was thankfully muffled against Baekhyun’s mouth.  

Using his thumb to circle your clit, he kept his finger thrusting inside you. He curved it upwards inside you and kept a pace that made you have to grasp onto his shoulders so you wouldn't fall over. He held you tightly and kept his lips smooth and sweet instead of sloppy. It was as if Baekhyun knew everything you craved and he was unlocking your body in ways you didn't think anyone who hadn't slept with you before could.

Moving his lips from yours, he peppered kisses over your jaw until they landed right beside your ear. Baekhyun moaned right into your ear and your back arched in response. His lips locked over the lob of your ear, giving it soft kisses as he picked up his pace and slowly added another finger.

You knew how your body worked and for some reason, you found yourself pulling Baekhyun's hand away by grasping his wrist. He looked at you in confusion and stopped everything he was doing as you did so. "Is something wrong?"

No. And maybe that was what made it wrong. Everything was perfect but the last thing you want was to cum once and not be able to do it again when he had sex with you. Not that you doubted his abilities, but girls couldn't always get off easy every single time and since you wanted the first time with Baekhyun to be perfect, you didn’t want to risk it.  

"No, I just want to have sex with you."

He smiled, "So? We can do it all, Y/N. You don't have to worry about rushing anything."

You scoffed, "I know that but don't we have other times for that? I just want to have you inside me, Baek."

He couldn't help the moan that fell from his lips when you called him 'Baek' and he walked you over towards the bed. He still kept his lips soft on yours and on your body. With Baekhyun, he didn't feel rough and even his hands were incredibly smooth.

You helped him undress, eager to see Baekhyun naked and when you did, it was breathtaking. He was stunning and you couldn't keep your eyes off him. His chest was unflawed, chiseled and all you wanted to do was lay on top of it for hours. Your fingers moved across his stomach as he removed his pants but he kept his eyes locked on yours the whole time. He gave you the most intense stare that had you aching right down to your core. You were a wet seeping mess and you couldn't even pretend like you weren't.  

You stared down at his member when he was finally underdressed and he gave you a cocky but still somehow sweet smile. "What?" He asked.

"You look good," you hummed as you stared at him.

Baekhyun laughed. "You act surprised."

"Impressed is more like it."

He pressed a finger to your cheek, "Well, I am more than impressed with your body. I'm hypnotized by it."

You scoffed and tried to cover yourself with your hands but Baekhyun tugged them away. "It's not great." While you weren't the most unconfident person, there was still so much you disliked and wished you could change. You didn't have the body type that anyone pined after and you found yourself wishing you could be elegant and perfect like models. Like the girls Sehun went for. The thought made you nauseous. How could you think of that asshole when you had the sweetest man treating you like you were royalty?

Baekhyun's gaze turned to a glare. "It's amazing and I will prove that to you. Nobody should ever make you feel like your body isn't the best one in the world because it is."

To that, you didn’t have much to say as Baekhyun raised an eyebrow and gave your shoulders kisses. You reached out to touch him and he let you wrap your hand around his shaft. He was warm and with every pump of his cock that you did, he moaned loudly and you were certain his eyes had just rolled back in his head.  

Pleasing him, made you feel good. It made you feel accomplished and you found yourself wanting to dive deep into the sweet world of Baekhyun.  

You jerked your hand roughly as you tightened your fingers and the moment your name fell from Baekhyun’s lips, you felt like crying. It was so beautiful to hear your name on his tongue. He was so intriguing and Baekhyun was like every girls fantasy.

“Okay,” he panted, “That’s enough from you.” You smiled as he pulled himself away from you and searched the pockets of his pants. He pulled a condom from his jeans and you smiled. There was something about a man that cared about protection, that made you feel good. Condoms weren’t the best feeling in the world but it was the best feeling when you knew your partner cared for you. Most guys you were with expected you to be on birth control and that was a burden enough as it was.  

Baekhyun pulled the condom over his length, checked if it was secure and then dropped his knees back to the bed and crawled over your laying body. He wrapped your legs around him and aligned the two of you together as you squirmed and begged for more. Before he could even get an inch closer to your entrance, his warm brown eyes met yours, “Are you sure this is what you want?”

You nodded eagerly but Baekhyun just tsked at you.  

“I want to be sure, I don’t want you to regret anything. I know you love him.”

But you weren’t thinking of him. “Baekhyun, I want you. Please. You are all that’s on my mind right now and I really want you.”

He smiled and slowly pushed himself inside of you. Both of your moans flowed freely throughout the room as he pushed deeper and dropped his body to be draping over yours.  

He pulled himself out and slowly pushed back in. Your legs wrapped all the way around him and you pulled him closer as you tightened your heat around him.  

His moans were delicious and he seemed to think the same about yours because he kept smiling with every moan that came from you.  

Your body felt like it was in overdrive as Baekhyun continued to pull in and out of you. Everything tingled and all you could see was his deep brown eyes that kept searching your face and body to make sure you were still enjoying yourself.  

Your eyes had snapped themselves closed in pleasure so you gasped when his lips wrapped around one of your nipples and softly sucked. You moaned and arched into him, begging for more. He gave you just that, moving his lips to the other nipple.  

His hands trailed over your thighs as he held onto the backs of your knees and increased his pace. The more you felt his length throb inside you, the closer you got.  

Baekhyun was pushing every button you had in the right ways and when he latched his lips to your worst, it was confirmed every more. His teeth traced your wrist as his tongue darted out. You wanted to pull your hand away and pull his head closer to it all at once. Your wrist was your sweet spot and somehow Baekhyun had found it.  

When he switched lips, that’s when you felt it and while you tried to hold back, Baekhyun just whispered, “That’s it, Y/N. Come for me, beautiful,” and that made you cum on the spot.  

Your body convulsed and your heat tightened around Baekhyun as he encouraged you to moan louder for him. Once you fully came undone, you were limp under Baekhyun and your whole body was over sensitive. Every touch, every thrust, every kiss was sending you over the edge.  

Baekhyun came quickly after you and smiled once he had pulled out. You pulled his head down to your chest and held it there, kissing his sweaty hair. “Thank you,” you whispered. “You made me feel better than anyone has.”

You could feel him smile and after a few moments, he got up, discarded the condom and then joined you back in bed. He pulled you into him, cuddling you into his warmth and you let out a sigh.  

Safe. That was how Baekhyun felt. He felt like safety and that was something you craved.

That night, you didn’t cry, lock your door, or count anyone’s steps. Instead, you and Baekhyun talked for hours about anything and everything. And of course debating who would beat the other one at Mario Kart.  

Even the boyfriends you had were never as sweet as Byun Baekhyun and you hoped that sex wouldn’t ruin your friendship the way it did with Sehun…but that was if you even wanted to stay just friends with him after this.  

You could see the two of you as more and that alone was enough to give you sweet dreams that night.  

↣♜ ♜ ♜↢

The next morning, Sehun glared at you and Baekhyun as if you were the worst things he had ever seen. The two of you cooked breakfast together since you had woken up early and in a good mood and while Baekhyun offered for Sehun to join the two of you for breakfast, Sehun declined.  

The moment Baekhyun ran off to go to the bathroom, Sehun cornered you against the fridge.  

His gaze was deadly and it made you whimper. In that instance, you couldn’t help but be repulsed by him. “So is this what we’re doing now?”

“What?” You angrily spat. “What are we doing?”

He growled, “Fucking other people right under the other one's nose,” he clarified. “You shouldn’t have started something like this.”

You raised both brows and pursed your lips. “Funny seeing as of how I didn’t start it. You did. “

Sehun just glared at you and you watched his eyes drift down to your lips and your exposed neck and you saw the shift. Sehun wanted you and all you wanted was to push him away. “I’m better than him. I know all about your body, doll face.” You cringed and pushed him away.  

Baekhyun entered the room just as Sehun reached for you again and Baekhyun’s gaze was set to kill. He reached for you and pulled you behind him while eyeing Sehun. “What are you doing, man?” He spat.  

Sehun rolled his eyes. “Dollface, when you get bored with your little toy, a real man is waiting for you.”

Sehun grabbed his keys and headed for the door but Baekhyun’s voice stopped him. “Real men don’t leave bruises on women. Nor do they cheat on them.”

“Cheating,” Sehun scoffed before turning and leaving being sure to slam the door behind him.  

You jumped and Baekhyun’s hands found your shoulders. He looked at you sympathetically before kissing your nose, “He’s something else.”

“I know,” you sighed and leaned into Baekhyun’s chest. You needed his safety.  

↣♜ ♜ ♜↢

It didn’t take long for Sehun to do the same with you. In fact, that night he brought a girl home but you wouldn’t have even known unless you saw her because Baekhyun was busy eating you out and giving you the best three orgasms of your life. Orgasms you didn’t even think you could have.

It went on like that for a while but it got to a point where you didn’t even bother having sex at your place but at Baekhyun’s or sometimes in his car which at first was odd to you because the original plan was to make Sehun hurt but you couldn’t hurt him if he didn’t know about it. The more you were with Baekhyun, the less you cared about making Sehun jealous.  

Sex with Baekhyun was always a good experience. Things never got overly rough with him and while occasionally you asked for rough, he never went overboard. He did what you asked and hell, he was good at it but he never left marks on you. Only the occasional small love bite on your thigh or wrist by accident.  

He was so sweet to you. Your relationship was surviving with sex added into the mix and it was striving even. Sometimes, Baekhyun would even send flowers to your work – of course, anonymously so Kyunsgoo wouldn’t know but you always knew it was him because he would have a small ‘b’ written on the inside of the card. Besides, it was impossible not to know it was him when he texted asking if the flowers were okay every single time he sent any.  

He took you on walks, out on dates, and spent most of his free time texting you. It was becoming a norm between the two of you.  

Nothing felt forced or rushed and even though Sehun was mad and bitter, you felt happy.  

Baekhyun was a new light to your life and it was opening so much to you. So much so that you had even started talking to Junmyeon again although you refused to discuss Sehun with him.

The problem was that while you were being entranced by Baekhyun, you still loved and missed Sehun. Baekhyun told you it would take time to stop loving him but he promised one day you would. One day your heart would get fed up and while you thought it already had, it hadn’t. Baekhyun filled the void of Sehun though – although maybe that was wrong because Baekhyun took up his own place in your heart. He was way different than Sehun and it was beautiful.  

Sehun continued to have girls over and every time you went home, you saw the condom wrappers and random girls clothing that he never cared to pick up after. It disgusted you but you felt good knowing he at least used condoms with other women. Maybe not with you but at least you knew that maybe he used protection with the girls he slept with behind your back.  

It hurt that he felt so little about you that he could keep sleeping around and hurting you but we’re you even better? You were doing the same but yet, you cared for Baekhyun.  

You didn’t know how but after a month and a half of the same routine and being intimate with him, you felt so different about Baekhyun.  

Maybe even loved him a bit.  

But you were still so confused.  

Kyungsoo and Junmyeon didn’t ask much because they were just happy that you were happy. Even if it was strange that your body wasn’t riddled with marks, they decided not to forsake their blessings.  

You could tell they wanted to ask but the two of them respected your privacy.  

On the other hand, Sehun refused to respect yours. He would blow up your phone, beg you to come home, beg you for sex, apologize, beg for forgiveness and then send you unsolicited dick pics.  

In that time that you would receive those messages, Baekhyun just laughed it off or texted Sehun pictures of his dick in response. You and Baekhyun weren’t exclusive although neither of you fucked other people. He never treated you like you were property and even though he told you if you ever wanted to go back to Sehu, you could without feeling bad, you didn’t want to leave.  

Baekhyun made you want to stick around with him and you weren’t regretting it.

He wasn’t forcing you into commitments but he wasn’t saying that he wouldn’t commit. Baekhyun had admitted to liking you a few days ago when he cuddled you after sex and it had you on cloud nine. You whole-heartily liked Baekhyun too.  

Of course, it was to be said that Sehun was the love of your life. But even so, that didn’t mean that you had to put up with the trauma. You didn’t have to take what he dished out just because you were afraid of losing him. It was all on the table. He knew you loved him and when he found out, his true colors showed. The look in his eyes when you said you loved him wasn’t one you would forget anytime soon.  

It was finally decided that after two months of the fuck fest revolving around you and Sehun, that you would move out. Baekhyun was offering you a place to stay – as long as you wanted but you insisted it was just until you could find a new place. Little by little on nights that Sehun had been out, you had begun moving your things out.  

The night you went to pick up the last few bits was when your world came crumbling down.  

You specifically planned the times around when Sehun wouldn’t be home but tonight, he was home.

He came out of his room the moment he heard the front door open and he looked exhausted.  

For once, the living room wasn’t a mess. Traces of other girls were nowhere to be seen and all that was left in its stead was Sehun standing in the hall looking dead.  

You paused for a moment and then found yourself stepping back towards the door before Sehun's eyes grew wide and he placed his hands up.

You froze.  

“Please don’t go,” he begged in a quiet voice. “Please. Hear me out.”

That just made you sigh. “I’ve heard you out time and time again. It never goes right-“

“I love you,” he blurted out, interrupting you.

The world around you seemed to stop.  

Your breathing was shallow in your chest and you just stared at Sehun.

Thoughts rushed through your mind. Did he really love you? What did it mean if he loved you? He loved you but he put you through all that pain?

Baekhyun. Baekhyun. You needed Baekhyun here with you or you were going to break. You reached for your phone but Sehun was already close. Too close. His eyes were gentle and it was enough to break you down. When had he ever looked at you like that?

"I really love you," he sighed. "I'm sorry for everything I said and how I treated you. I never meant to hurt you like that and I don't even know why I did."

"How long?" You gritted out as you looked away.

"Before we even started this whole thing. I think I've always loved you but I've just put it to the side. I didn't want to love. I didn't want those kinds of feelings but yet, you've always been able to reach a part of me that nobody else could. Maybe it's because you're older and more mature," he shrugged. "I don't know but I've been fighting it and I don't want to anymore."

You scoffed. "Now you know how I feel but you had a choice to fight your feelings. I didn't. I blurted them out, and what happened? You told me I was an idiot, called me names, and left bruises on me. Sehun, that's abuse." Your own words shook you. Sehun was abusive to you. So he didn't hit you and had only gotten briefly physical with you but that didn't mean it couldn't be abuse. Domestic violence can come in many forms and it all started with him calling you dollface. Sehun was toxic to you but for some reason even when you knew you were breathing in toxins, you couldn't stay away.

Now, thinking of everything Sehun had done to you, you still found yourself softened by his admission. Was this what true love was supposed to be? Was true love this painful?

But then, there was Baekhyun and Baekhyun had shown you that even the smallest bit of affection didn't have to come with pain.

Sehun's hands reached out to you and while you stayed turned away, you let his hand touch your cheek. You swore you could feel the burn his hand left on your skin but Sehun's touch was something you had always loved - even when it hurt. He let out a shaky breath. "Give me a chance. Give me a chance for this relationship. Please. I love you. I'm in love with you and you were right. Nobody will ever care for me the way you do."

"I can't," you whispered and felt tears touch your eyes. "I can't give you a chance when you have already burned me more than I ever imagined you would. You've hurt me and tainted me. Lately, I've finally gotten a glimpse of what a healthy relationship should be and it isn't us."

He shook his head and his other hand touched your face as he gently pulled you to face him. His eyes searched you and they were putting out a poisonous amount of love. Tears welled in your eyes the more he stared at you and it wasn't long before he was capturing a tear between his fingers. "Give it another chance. I can change. We can make this healthy. Believe in me, Y/N. Believe in me the way you always have for one last time." And maybe it was because he called you by your name but you felt yourself going limp under his touch.

It was true that in Sehun's life, nobody had faith in his potential the way you did. When he cried over the pressure from his family, you were the one lifting him up and telling him that he could be whatever he wanted to be. You were the only one who stood by his love and talent for dance when everyone else threw it to the side. Sehun's family never thought he could be anything but it was you that knew he could be something.

Sehun and you had been through rough times together and even though the nagging thoughts in the back of your head reminded you that it was only you that was there for him, you still felt yourself trembling for Sehun.

You thought you could see the love in his eyes. You thought you could see change but you should have known better.  

"I won't disappoint you ever again. I swear. Take me back because we can be the best love that has ever existed. I'll give up whatever for you. I just miss you."

"Sehun-" you started but he cut you off. You couldn't stop from crying as you looked at the broken man in front of you and in the reflection of his eyes, you could see your own broken self.

His lips hovered over yours for a moment, "I love you. I love you so much."

And you crumbled.

You leaned into the kiss you gave and through your tears, you could feel yourself shaking. Your body was on fire but yet ice cold at the same time.

His hands were the same they always were. Rough on your skin and leaving marks in their wake.  

But, you craved it.

You had missed your Sehun so much that you were willing to have him like this even if it wasn't what you truly wanted. You still loved him with all the shattered pieces of your heart and denying him would have broken you more.

You have into his touch. You let him have his way with you again even if you didn't feel the way you did for him before. The love you had for him had evolved and grown into something different. You found it wasn't as intriguing as it was before.

Sehun no longer felt like his body fit with yours because the past two months you had been with Baekhyun and Sehun wasn't Baekhyun. Sehun didn't compare to the way Baekhyun had molded himself to fit you because Sehun never wanted to change himself for you in the first place.

And that was the problem.

Love sometimes meant being willing to change for the one you loved.

Sehun wouldn’t change.

But you got naked with Sehun. Let him see and touch your skin one last time even though it felt entirely wrong.

You couldn't stop the fire that was among you.

So you let Sehun fuck you the way he always had and the next morning, you woke up with wet tears on your cheeks.

Sehun was fast asleep next to you and you found yourself curling into a ball.

You made a mistake.

He loved you but it was too late.

There was no repairing the damage he had done no matter what he did.

Forcing yourself out of his bed and ignoring the way your body ached from his rough assault, you threw on your clothes and stared at Sehun several moments before walking to leave his room. Before you could leave, his phone lit up and your eyes danced over towards it.

The second you read the message, you knew you should have walked away while you were ahead but instead, you unlocked his phone with the passcode you knew so well and the messages laid out in front of you made you sick.

After you had fallen asleep, a girl had been texting Sehun asked to see him and Sehun agreed that they would meet up tonight but that he had to keep it on the down low since he had a girl back at home. As you went through the message exchange between the two, your stomach twisted into knots and you felt nausea coming on.

He was more than intimate with this girl and you could see that by the pictures they exchanged.

Sehun had lied.

He wasn't planning to change for you.

He couldn't.

He was Sehun and no matter how much he claimed to love you, it would never be enough.

You did the only thing any reasonable and heartbroken girl would do, you launched the phone full force at Sehun, waking him up and causing him to yell out in pain.

"What was that for?" He cried as he held his side.

"For not thinking I deserve better than your sorry ass," you hissed and glared at him one last time before grabbing your things from the other room and going towards the front door.

Sehun tried to stop you. His cheeks were drenched with tears and he apologized saying that his old habits die hard and that he would work on it. He didn't want you to go and even though he put his hands on you multiple times in an effort to get you to stop, you pushed him off.

"Stay out of my life," you spat as you slammed the door behind you.

Just as you had before, you called Baekhyun crying and he came to your aid. Cradling you and promising you that everything was okay even though you were covered in marks and hickeys from Sehun.

↣♜ ♜ ♜↢

"What the fuck are you doing to yourself?" Kyungsoo demanded when he saw you at work the day after you left Sehun. "You went back to him, didn't you? Just as you were finding happiness."

"There is a lot you don't know, Kyungsoo," you whispered as you tried to focus on work. "It's over between me and Sehun."

He scoffed, "You always say that."

"I mean it this time," you gritted out.

"Have you talked to Junmyeon lately?" He pushed, his tone still rough and angry.

Grabbing the ends of your hair, you tried not to scream. "No, I can't run off to Junmyeon with my every fucking problem, Kyungsoo."

He rolled his eyes, "He's your best friend. You need to talk to him. He's worried about you."

You couldn't say that you didn't miss Junmyeon because you did. You missed his gentle touches, the way he looked after you, and the comforting way he smelled. Maybe you did need him but how could you explain everything you had been doing? All the details you had been trying to hide from him was bound to make him disappointed and he was too important to you.

The mess in your life was too much to even try to hide so no, you couldn't talk to Junmyeon.

Baekhyun was there for you and even if it wasn't the same as your best friend, Baekhyun brought you comfort and light to your life that no one could give you.

You were honest about the night with Sehun and Baekhyun wasn't hurt. He promised that it was okay and he knew it would happen eventually. The two of you weren't committed so he didn't feel like you had broken his trust - which made you hurt even more because if you were in his shoes, you would have felt broken.

Baekhyun could tell you were over Sehun this time because you were determined to keep him out of your life. You changed your number, stayed with Baekhyun, and cut all ties with Sehun that you could.

At first, it made you cry a lot at night but Baekhyun was there, holding you in his bed and promising that everything was okay. You were all Sehun had, the only one who had believed in him and you had left him to fend for yourself. You worried if he would be okay and worried that he could hurt himself but Baekhyun told you that you had to let it go. Sehun had burned his bridges and you couldn't rebuild them for him.

It was six weeks and four days exactly when you had realized that maybe keeping Sehun out of your life would be harder than you thought.

Being the ignorant girl you had been, you had been taking antibiotics for a short time due to an infection but since Baekhyun used protection with you, you weren't worried about getting pregnant. Although you should have because unlike Baekhyun, Sehun didn't have that decency and now, there you were, crying in the bathroom of Baekhyun's apartment knowing for a fact that you were pregnant with Oh Sehun's baby.

The stupid fucking two lines were caused your shaky hands to snap the first test in half so you took another... and then another... and then another... but each test was just as positive as the last and it sent you into hysterics.

Baekhyun rushed into the room and the second his eyes fell on the pregnancy tests around your slumped figure, he fell to his knees and cradled you into him.

You looked up at him as you sobbed and without even saying anything, you knew that he knew it wasn't his. He rubbed your hair and let you cry in his arms for hours, assuring you that it changed nothing and that he cared about you.

All you felt was dread.

The last thing you wanted was a baby and a baby with Oh Sehun was an even worse scenario.

How could you face Junmyeon now?

↣♜five♜↢

|masterlist|

a/n: okay, i finished! forgive any grammar or editing mistakes because I just wanted to finally get it out! I know some will be disappointed but I’m sorry for that! As a writer, this is just where I wanted to take the story and hope you love and enjoy it regardless. Not every story can be perfect and perfect isn’t always real!

Thank you all for the love and support thus far and I hope you enjoy the last two parts! Please let me know what you think and give me an update of whose team you are on! <3

[jiminwreckedme]

Save Me? I’m Fine Teaser

An extract on a Tae one shot I’m working on that should have been ready for his birthday but obviously isn’t cause of multiple reasons. It’ll be out soon enough though so do look out for it!

To call the street an unfinished painting was perhaps the most accurate description Taehyung could give about that day. So much of the canvas was still perfectly white, as though waiting for the artist’s hand to return and splatter it with a hundred different colors. The late evening light struggled through the murky cloud, but even in its weakness it was enough to blind. The air was of course cold, but Taehyung hadn't expected the same dampness that comes before rain. As he glanced up at the sky, snowflakes fell on his face - colorless confetti in a wintry ballroom, making him feel like he was dancing with the snowfall. Breath pale against the numbing air, he blinked thoughtfully as the frost patiently kissed his face, captivated by the soft, dusty illusions of light that sat heavy on his eyelashes.

Walking through the park covered in a thick blanket of white, he watched statutes peeking out under their new white caps, footsteps and paw prints crisscrossing each other around the labyrinth of paths. Fishing out his car keys, he opened the door the moment he reached the parking lot and slipped into the drivers seat. Blasting the radio with his favorite 90s music, he stepped on the gas pedal, speeding down the silent, uninhabited street.

The sun had nearly made its way down the sky, off before it had to come back again tomorrow. Taehyung didn’t get any calls though he was expecting quite a few considering it was peak hours. But then again there was also the fact that he was quite far away from the city. His previous customer had Taehyung drive him nearly half an hour outside the city to reach his destination. Not like Taehyung complained. It was after a long time in his life that he was getting such peace and quiet. He was actually enjoying it. But the downside of it meant it would be a while before he got a customer, which equaled to lower commission tonight.

Glancing outside the window he kept his eye on any and all possible prospects as the sun completely disappeared under the horizon. There were less than a handful of people scattered along the street. An old woman feeding her cat, a couple of bikers taking a smoke, a middle aged lady with her son. Taehyung turned his head slowly to glance at the other side but then there was sudden shadow moving before his car, his headlights illuminating a terrified face and Taehyung slammed on the brakes only just avoiding a splatter of blood across his car.

Feet slipping outwards on the wet remains of snow as you round the corner, the cold evening air shocked your throat and lungs as you inhaled deeper, faster. With each footfall a jarring pain shot ankle to knee, ankle to knee. Perhaps jumping that wall onto stairs wasn't so smart. Your heart was beating frantically, all or nothing. Fail and your whole body would have to pay the price, run and the damage was limited mostly to your shins and knees. You knew this estate better than they do, those assholes are no more than men in leather jackets and a deep voice. They were weighed down with guns, knifes and electrical stun devices, all of them useless unless they get a clear shot, which they can't. You can hear them panting with the effort from three hundred yards behind, that's how bloody noisy they are.

You wiped the sweat from your forehead, exhausted. Your legs broke from beneath you and collapsed onto the nearby beach. But it was not long before you could smell them - the stench of their cheap cologne, and cigarettes. Your heart started racing and you knew you had to keep going. Branches constantly attacked you, leaves crunched under you feet and big, brown logs seemed to appear out of nowhere as if to try and stop you. You could still smell them. Though you had to stop before your lungs gave out on you. Hair matted with a crimson liquid, your arms and legs all bruised and cut and your clothes looked like rags, dirty and tattered. You looked like a leaking pipe but you had to keep running.

There was a cobbled road before you, and you watched, far away, a car speeding down but if you were fast enough you could reach the other side. Stopping for even a moment meant giving them time to get closer to you, giving death the opportunity to get to you. Making up your mind in a split second you immediately darted across the street but you had miscalculated the math and your ankle betrayed you and suddenly the car was inches away from you in full speed and it was at that moment that you thought everything was over.

That all this was worth nothing.

It was your eyes that Taehyung noticed first.

Scared but also fearless. Regretful but also strangely pleased as though this was the only thing that could stop you from running. But the moment the car came to an utter still, your eyes became softer, more desperate, more sorrowful.

And then suddenly you turned back, neck nearly snapping at the speed and looked into the far away darkness. Your breathing became deeper, more erratic, as you quickly scrambled, palms grazing against the cold metal of his car, till you reached his window knocking on it, saying something he couldn’t quite hear. Before he could even bring down the window to listen to you, you turned around again as though you heard something and then simply ran. You ran down the street, to the other side where you disappeared, becoming one with the darkness.

It took a moment for Taehyung to compose himself and grasp what was actually going on. You, a woman, very young woman, just nearly got yourself killed by running before his car, then you tried to say something to him, right before you ran. You ran as though....as though you were running away from someone....as though someone was after you. And sure enough, seconds later about 5 men ran right out of the darkness behind your shoulder that you looked so afraid of.

Taehyung felt his eyes widen before he quickly looked away not wanting to meet the eye of those men. He very well knew who they were, the whole city knew them in fact, but he knew them better than most. Better than he should.

The men raced their way down the street the same way you went and Taehyungs vision followed them as they left before his eyes fell on the small stain of crimson marking his misty window. Ignoring the honking car behind him he shut his eyes painting the picture he saw earlier before him - The fog, the bare illumination of your face, your hair falling all over and all around messily but not distastefully, your chapped bleeding lips, saying something he could only read now.

Save me

“Tae? Taehyung!”

Taehyung immediately snapped out of his thoughts and looked up from his fidgeting fingers. Jin was looming over him in his apron, a paddle in his hand and a puzzled expression dancing on his face.

“Where are you lost? I’ve been screaming at you from across the shop for about 5 minutes now asking you if you want to eat in or take away?”

Taehyung looked around to see all the customers faces look at him strangely. Rubbing his hands on his face he quickly let out a breath and smiled at Jin. “Sorry man, guess I’m quite tired tonight.”

“That’s not good, you’re on night shift today right?” Jin looked at the clock that rang just as the hour arm landed on 9.

Taehyung shook his head. “No, I just finished a shift. I covered for my mate today, he had some wedding to attend. He’s taking over my scheduled shift now.”

“That means you can go home and get some rest huh?”

Rest? After what he saw? There was only one thing going on and on in his mind. Who are you? Why were those men after you? Were you okay? Did they catch you? He should have ran behind them to make sure you were safe. You asked him. You asked him for help. But he was such a coward. A coward who was afraid to face his fears so he left you to drown you in your own. Yes you were a stranger but he didn’t even step out for the sake of humanity.

If there was one thing Taehyung could wish for, it was never to see you again. He didn’t think he could handle the guilt of not extending help. Or he could face the fact that he was such a fear infested man.

“Yeah, I guess.” He nodded. “I’ll take away and eat at home Jin. Maybe catch up on my T.v show and chug down some drinks.”

“Alright then, give me 10 minutes I’ll get your food.” Taehyung let out a breath as Jin walked back. But before the older man disappeared behind the curtain separating the sitting area from the kitchen he turned around, worried, “Tae, you’re okay right?”

Taehyung swallowed the nothing that was stuck in his throat before his lie left him like a croak. “Yeah, I’m fine.”

[idolimagines]

Suits: Part 1

New Got7 Mini Series

Genre: romance, mystery, crime, thriller

“Some people don’t change…they just find new ways to lie.”

Teaser  Part 2

The bustling sound of taxi cars speeding by and truck horns rang through your ears as you exited your townhouse. The foggy morning sky was quite the typical sight to see as you prodded down the concrete steps and onto the busy sidewalk. People were racing past, panicking to call a taxi within the crowded street as it was 8 a.m. crunch time – meaning kids had to be in school and adults had to be at work.

Fastening the last button on your peacoat, you kept yourself warm and your purse near as you made your way down the street, starting on the familiar path that you took every morning. “Excuse me,” you muttered as you would make your way through hundreds of other civilians, walking down the steps and navigating your way through the underground subway station.

You were quick to find your station number, having the digits 309 engraved in your mind after countless rides. As soon as the door opened, you made your way inside the car – quickly finding a seat and plopping down as other passengers soon began to file in.

People squashed in like sardines, packing into the cart as much as possible just as the doors closed shut and the driver announced for takeoff. Among those, multiple voices were heard. With some sounding not much friendlier than others as you caught a few high school girls pushing another girl into the corner, calling her obscene names and demanding that she get off “their” train.

It was obvious that the poor girl was being bullied – however, despite the ruckus their torment was causing, none of the other passengers said a word. You snapped your head around, shocked that people stayed on their phones and pretended like they were completely oblivious to what was going on in front of them.

A girl was being bullied right there and yet, no one did a thing to stop it.

The idea itself made you sick, not knowing how a society could be so cruel as to not even lend a hand when help was needed.

So you abruptly stood up and out of your seat, eyeing the group of girls as you stalked towards them.

“You should’ve just walked to school, seems like you could use the exercise.” You heard one of the bullies remark with a laugh while pointing at the poor girl in humiliation as the others began to follow suit and laugh. You quickly noticed this particular loud girl was like the ring leader, continuing to crack cruel insults and initiating trouble while the other three high schoolers giggled like hyenas beside her.

“Why aren’t you saying anything?” The leader further demanded, instigating the situation even more as she circled the poor girl like a predator.

But as the helpless girl stayed completely silent, it only pissed off the bully even more. “You scared? Say something!” She yelled, launching forward and raising a fist at the victim before you came from behind and caught it in mid-air.

“What the hell,” the bully snapped before squealing in pain as you held her arm in a lock position. “What are you doing – let go of me bitch!”

“Now you weren’t about to hit my friend here – were you?” You smirked.

“It’s none of your business lady, now let me go!” She demanded before she swung her other fist at you.

With a bored sigh, you twisted her arm in a downward position, holding it in a way that made her yelp out and fall to her knees in pain. Her friends stayed put, not bothering to get involved as you had made their leader fall within seconds. “Apologize,” you scolded the girls.

“Fuck no,” the leader hissed before you twisted her arm once more. “Ow!!” She yelled before looking up to you, “Alright, fine. I’m sorry.”

“Not to me,” you interjected. “To her.”

She watched as your eyes diverted to the girl in the corner, “…I’m sorry.” The leader muttered, looking embarrassed as she kept her head down.

 “Good,” you approved just as the train came to a stop. “Now get out of here.”

Without another word, the bully and her friends obeyed your order – each exiting out of the subway but not without giving you dirty glares first, making sure you saw the anger on their faces before leaving.

As soon as the doors closed, you turned back to the victim, looking at her as she awkwardly stood in the corner. “You can have my seat,” you gestured, nodding in the direction of your now empty leather chair.

The girl merely nodded her head in return, almost as if nonverbally expressing her gratitude as she shot you a small smile and sat down.

“That was really cool of you,” a guy mumbled as you joined him in waiting near the door. As soon as your stop came into sight, you glanced back to him.

“It’s my job.” You answered with a grin before stepping off the train.

And indeed it was as you were an attorney – dedicating your life to defend those in need.

It was a risky job to say the least, being a part of such a prestigious firm – if you made one wrong move your head was on the chopping block. It’s a fast paced, highly intense type of work but you wouldn’t want it any other way.

But of course with power comes competition and amongst yours and the other firms in the city there were the best lawyers and attorneys otherwise known as the elites. However, despite the prestigious title, in this tight circle of people there were secrets and scandals everywhere you turned. Someone was always turning their back on someone and needless to say it was hard to trust the people amongst yourself.

But lucky for you, you found solace in someone.

A loud ding of the bell signaled your arrival as you entered through the narrow door. You were instantly greeted by the pleasant smell of comfort food as you wandered in, seeing the familiar sight of a jukebox and red and white checkered walls.

The classic tunes of Elvis boomed through the diner as you found an empty seat at the bar before being greeted by a smiling face. “Morning Y/N, you having the usual?” Your friend BamBam asked as he rolled up from the other side of the bar.

“Of course,” you grinned while removing your coat and leaving it to hang on the back of your stool. “Hey Youngjae! Y/N is here. Fix her up the usual,” BamBam shouted towards the back kitchen before tending to the other tables as the morning crowd kept the server quite busy.

“Got it,” Youngjae casually announced, grabbing some ingredients before noticing you in the front. “Hey Youngjae,” you greeted with a friendly wave as you watched him through the small open window of the kitchen door.

“Y/N!” He called with a warm smile, “Been a while since we’ve seen you.”

“Oh I know, it’s been what? A whole 12 hours?” You admitted and he laughed while finishing the final touches on your food.

It was a traditional favorite you had been eating since you were a child – homemade buttermilk waffles cooked golden to perfection. With every comforting bite you took, you felt like you were back home at your grandmother’s house - waking up every morning with a plate full of waffles just begging to be topped with maple syrup.

“So what have you been up to? Anything exciting this week?” BamBam asked, sliding across the freshly mopped floor with his leather shoes. “Nothing lately, cases have been pretty slow.” You casually answered while Youngjae came out of the kitchen and set your plate down.

Your eyes lit up at the sight of your food, looking more appetizing than ever while paired with a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. “Thanks,” you grinned at the cook before he leaned over the counter beside BamBam. “Ah, you never let me down. These are delicious, Youngjae.” You complimented after swallowing a piece of waffle.

“Only the best for the greatest attorney in the city,” Youngjae added, pretending to bow down to you before BamBam teasingly pushed him. “Oh stop it, you’re going to make my head swell up.” You laughed before the bell chime rung again.

You kept your attention on your breakfast, not bothering to look up as BamBam greeted the newcomer. “Welcome,” he routinely greeted. “What can I get you?”

“Just a coffee, please.” The newcomer’s voice responded. From the deep tone you could tell it was a man nearby as you could feel a newfound presence to your left at the bar. While taking another bite of your waffle, you heard BamBam towards the back bustling around and pouring a fresh cup. “Cream or sugar?” The server asked before you finally decided to look up at your surroundings.

And just as you did you laid eyes on the newcomer beside you.

He was tall and handsome – donning a head full of dark hair and a classic suit. He looked like an established young business man of some sort. His features were broad and sharp, giving him a captivating look like no other as he casually stood there against the bar. He was an eye catcher, far too good to look away from before you suddenly caught his eye.

And it was at that moment he had to take a double look – eyes now off the phone and attention purely on you before BamBam asked, “Cream or sugar?” once more.

“Black,” the man simply repeated while still keeping eye contact with you. He seemed in a daze as you slowly looked away, causing him to crack a smile before his coffee arrived. The man took a few sips of his drink before his phone began to ring again, causing him to inwardly huff a little before answering the device.

“Hello?” He answered into the speaker as you rummaged through your bag to fetch your credit card – needing to quickly pay before you were late for work. However, the man’s conversation was soon tuned out as you started to panic, internally freaking out as you opened your wallet and your credit card was missing.

“Shit,” you inwardly cursed before rummaging through the tote once more. “What’s wrong?” Youngjae asked, looking over at you with a raised brow. “Umm…I can’t seem to find my card,” you admitted as soon as you remembered you left it at home.

Your words had garnered the handsome man’s attention nearby, causing him to look at you once more as both BamBam and Youngjae both told you not to worry about it this time.

“Here,” the man announced, stepping forward and coolly taking out a platinum card out of his pocket. “It’s on me,” he added – shooting you a quick smile in return. BamBam nearly gasped at the gesture, grinning between the two of you before nodding and taking the man’s credit card before he returned to his conversation on the phone.

Not wanting to interrupt his conversation, you mouthed the words thank you to the kind stranger, making sure he saw you before you bid your two friends goodbye and headed towards the door. BamBam shot you a disapproving scowl from behind, sneakily nodding his head towards the stranger as if telling you to stay and talk to him.

You shook your head, almost laughing aloud until you continued towards the exit.

The cool air hit your skin as you found yourself outside, casually running a hand through your hair before you were suddenly called from behind. “Hey!” A voice called, making you turn around and face the kind stranger from before. He was no longer on the phone but instead walking towards you.

Raising your brows, you stayed put, curiously looking until he stood in front of you. “…Hi,” you greeted - wondering why he was looking for you in the first place. “You forgot this,” he soon declared before handing you your peacoat.

Your eyes widened, mentally scolding yourself for forgetting it in the first place. “Ah, today is just not my day,” you humbly mumbled. “Thanks.”

“Anytime,” he replied, holding back a grin from within as he looked down at you.

“And listen – about the food, I’ll pay you back immediately-”

“No need,” the man interjected. “Don’t worry about it.”

You blinked a few times, completely surprised by such a nice deed. “Well thank you…again.” You added with a small smile before noticing he was still eyeing at you. His gaze was intimidating at first but you noticed there was a sense of warmth within the way he looked at you. It was charming in a way, almost drawing you in as he held this sort of alluring presence about him.

You felt your cheeks heat up before tucking a chunk of hair behind your ear – quickly snapping yourself out of this trance. “Uh…well I- I’m going to be late for work so I have to get going…” you awkwardly announced. “Nice meeting you.” You added before turning to leave once more.

“Wait-” The man called, making you turn around as you were now a few feet away from him.

“Yes?” You answered.

“I never got your name,” he confessed, staying where he was as he held his coffee in one hand.

“Y/N,” you casually stated.

“Y/N,” he repeated in an appealing tone. “I like it…I’m Jaebum by the way.”

Jaebum. The name had a familiar ring to it as it sounded much more common to you than you realized. Where have I heard that name before? You mentally asked yourself – trying to uncover the mystery. However, you couldn’t put a finger to it as he didn’t look the least bit familiar.

“Well Y/N…I hope to see you again soon,” Jaebum admitted. “Maybe you can let me take you out sometime.”

“Ahh that’s nice, but I’m not too sure my fiancée would like that.” You teased before throwing up your hand and showing off your engagement ring.

Jaebum looked intrigued by the large diamond, raising his dark brows as his lips twisted into a smirk. “Fiancée you say?” He questioned before taking a sip of his coffee. “Lucky man.”

“Indeed he is,” you answered, causing Jaebum to chuckle in response. “Well I’ll see you around then Y/N.” He concluded. “Have a good rest of your day.”

“You too,” you replied before continuing on your way to your office. It was a block down from the diner but with crowded sidewalks and busy streets, you still ended up being late to work.

“You’re late,” you immediately heard as you raced down the hall towards your office – making you halt and turn towards the room you had passed. You were now faced with a demeaning glare, looking at you up and down as you entered the office.

“Sorry, I had a weird morning,” you admitted – closing the door behind you and leaving you two alone in the room. Your heart fluttered as you eyed the man in front of you, admiring how sexy he looked in the new suit you bought him.

“That’s not a good excuse,” he commented, cocking a brow at you as he leaned back in his large leather chair.

You smirked before setting down your tote and making your way towards the handsome man. “Maybe you can let me off the hook just this one time,” you suggested while coming inches closer to him and sitting at the edge of his desk.

“Hmm… I don’t know,” he playfully hummed, eyeing your legs in front of him.

You bit your lip as he slid his hands over them, caressing the smooth surface of your thighs as you spoke once more. “But Jackson, I promise I’ll be good next time.”

“I don’t think so,” he teased, looking up to you with those charming eyes you loved so much.

“I will.” You assured and a ‘tsk’ left his mouth. “How will you convince me otherwise?” Jackson asked.

“Hmm I have my ways,” you giggled before leaning down to your fiancée and grabbing him by his tie as you whispered, “Just wait till we get home.”

He showed his pearly whites as he cracked a mischievous grin, completely satisfied by your choice of words. “I look forward to it.” He purred before moving in and capturing your lips in a hot kiss. You held him close as your lips collided, quickly beginning to turn into something more if Jackson didn’t stop you when he did.

“I had one of the secretaries put a new case on your desk, it was supposed to be mine but I think it might put you out of your boredom.” He announced with a short laugh before you gave him one last peck and straightened out your pencil skirt. “Thanks babe,” you blew a kiss, earning a wink from him in return. “You’re welcome…now get to work,” Jackson ordered before you smiled and exited out of his office.

You plopped down in your seat as soon as you saw the familiar manila folders stacked onto your desk. “Let’s see what we got here,” you whispered to yourself as you opened each one, getting excited just like opening presents on your birthday.

And just as you did, you found the case you had been assigned. It was new and a high profile murder case awaiting trial soon.

But this was no ordinary murder case – no. It was one much different compared to anything you’ve ever tackled before as there, written in plain black letters was the name of the infamous Park Jinyoung.