#tracking affiliate success

[meelsport]

Mastering AppSumo Affiliate Marketing: Strategies, Tips, and Future Trends

Affiliate marketing is a great way to earn online income, and the AppSumo affiliate marketing program offers a prime opportunity. By promoting software and digital products, you earn commissions on every sale via your referral link. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or a beginner, this guide will help you succeed in AppSumo affiliate marketing. From building your brand to finding niche markets…

[mitchmo1-blog]

Unleashing the Power of Affiliate Marketing: Strategies for Bloggers The Best Blog in 2024 https://moneyprofitt.com

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, affiliate marketing has emerged as a powerful tool for bloggers to monetize their content and increase their revenue streams. By partnering with brands and promoting their products or services through unique affiliate links, bloggers can earn commissions for every sale or lead generated through their referral. This symbiotic relationship between bloggers and businesses has revolutionized the way online advertising works, allowing bloggers to leverage their influence and reach to drive sales while providing value to their audience. When delving into the realm of affiliate marketing, it is essential for bloggers to understand the basics of how it works. Essentially, affiliate marketing involves three main parties: the blogger (also known as the affiliate), the merchant (the brand or business selling the product), and the consumer. The blogger promotes the merchant's products or services through affiliate links, which track any sales or leads that result from the blogger's efforts. In return, the blogger earns a commission for each successful referral, making it a win-win situation for all parties involved. One of the key factors in succeeding in affiliate marketing is choosing the right affiliate programs to partner with. It is crucial for bloggers to align themselves with brands that resonate with their niche and audience. By selecting relevant products or services that they genuinely believe in, bloggers can create authentic content that engages their readers and drives conversions. Researching different affiliate programs, reading reviews, and reaching out to other bloggers for recommendations can help bloggers find high-quality partners that offer competitive commissions and valuable resources. Creating compelling content is another vital aspect of successful affiliate marketing for bloggers. Bloggers should focus on producing high-quality, informative, and engaging content that adds value to their audience's lives. By incorporating affiliate links naturally within their content – such as in product reviews, round-up posts, tutorials, or gift guides – bloggers can seamlessly promote products or services without coming across as pushy or salesy. Authenticity is key in building trust with readers and encouraging them to click on affiliate links. Optimizing affiliate links for maximum conversion is also essential in driving affiliate sales. Bloggers should strategically place their affiliate links within visible areas of their website where they are likely to attract clicks – such as within blog posts, sidebar banners, or call-to-action buttons. Additionally, using tracking tools like Google Analytics can help bloggers monitor the performance of their affiliate links and make data-driven decisions to optimize conversions. Tracking and analyzing performance metrics are crucial steps in evaluating the effectiveness of an affiliate marketing strategy. By monitoring key metrics such as click-through rates, conversion rates, average order value... To achieve success in affiliate marketing...

Home Affiliate Blogging Make Money Passive Income Work From Home Personal Finance SEO Strategy

[zentechia]

Elevate Your SEO Game: The Ultimate Guide to Website Analysis

Uncover the secret to skyrocketing your website's success with the ultimate guide to SEO analysis tools! 💡

Discover the power of SEO analysis tools and take your website to new heights with expert insights and comprehensive comparisons. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guide has everything you need to optimize your online presence and drive organic traffic.

1) Boost your website's SEO 🚀

2) Analyze keywords 📊

3) Improve backlinks 🔗

4) Track rankings 📈

5) Drive organic traffic 🌐

Read Full Article:

Link to the Software:

Earn Money Online:

Visit the website: https://zentechia.blogspot.com/ ( This website is related to Affiliate Marketing, Blogging, Online Earning, and the latest technology )

OUR LATEST BLOGS:

Marketing with Instagram in 2024 | Algorithm Revealed

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#SEO #WebsiteAnalysis #DigitalMarketing #OnlineVisibility #SEOTools #SearchEngineOptimization #MarketingStrategy #ContentStrategy #WebTraffic #SEOExpert #SEM #Ahrefs #Moz #GoogleSearchConsole #KeywordResearch #BacklinkAnalysis #SiteAudit #CompetitorAnalysis #RankTracking #ContentMarketing #OnlinePresence #SERP #OrganicTraffic #SearchEngineRankings #SEOAnalysis

[successartistry]

Affiliate Marketing: The Unexpected Path to Financial Freedom

Introduction

Are you interested in finding a way to achieve financial freedom? Look no further than affiliate marketing! In this blog post, we will explore how affiliate marketing can provide you with a lucrative income stream and the opportunity to be your own boss. 

By promoting other people's products and earning a commission, you can leverage the power of online marketing to reach a global audience and generate passive income. This means you don't have to create your own product to start earning money. 

Affiliate marketing allows you to tap into the vast potential of the internet and make money while you sleep. With the right strategies and dedication, you can build a sustainable online business that brings in steady income. 

So, if you're ready to embark on an unexpected path to financial freedom, keep reading. We'll delve into the various benefits and strategies of affiliate marketing that can help you achieve the financial independence you desire.

Section 1: No Need to Create Your Own Product

One of the most attractive aspects of affiliate marketing is that you don't need to create your own product. Instead, you can focus on promoting existing products or services that align with your interests and passions. By leveraging other people's products, you can bypass the time-consuming process of product development and jump straight into earning commissions. 

This approach allows you to get started quickly, which is especially beneficial if you're looking for a way to generate income sooner rather than later. Additionally, by promoting established products, you can reduce the financial risks associated with launching your own product. The costs and uncertainties of product development, manufacturing, and inventory become someone else's responsibility, leaving you free to concentrate on marketing and driving sales.

Whether you're passionate about fitness, technology, or home decor, there's likely an affiliate program available to suit your interests. With the opportunity to earn income from products you genuinely believe in, affiliate marketing provides a flexible and rewarding path towards financial freedom.

Section 2: The Power of Online Marketing

Harness the power of online marketing to tap into a global audience and expand your income potential. With the rise of digital platforms, reaching customers from different parts of the world has become easier than ever before. Through affiliate marketing, you can utilize various online channels such as websites, social media, and email marketing to promote your affiliate links. This opens up opportunities to earn income while you sleep, as your marketing efforts work continuously in the digital realm.

Online marketing allows you to target specific demographics and interests, ensuring that your promotions reach the right audience. By leveraging the power of search engine optimization (SEO), you can increase your website's visibility and attract organic traffic. Additionally, social media platforms provide a vast network of potential customers who are actively engaged and ready to discover new products or services.

Email marketing is another effective tool in your online marketing arsenal. By building an email list of interested subscribers, you can regularly communicate with them, share valuable content, and promote your affiliate links. This direct line of communication helps you establish trust and credibility with your audience, increasing the likelihood of conversions.

In the digital age, the possibilities are endless. Embrace the power of online marketing to reach a global audience, expand your income potential, and achieve financial freedom.

Section 3: Be Your Own Boss

Imagine the freedom of being your own boss, setting your own schedule, and working from anywhere in the world. As an affiliate marketer, you have the autonomy to choose your niche, select the products you want to promote, and define your marketing strategies. This flexibility allows you to pursue your passions and build a business that aligns with your interests. Say goodbye to the constraints of traditional employment and embrace the freedom that affiliate marketing offers.

Being your own boss means you have the power to make decisions that directly impact your success. You have the freedom to experiment with different marketing techniques, explore new opportunities, and adapt your strategies as needed. No longer will you have to answer to a supervisor or adhere to someone else's vision. Instead, you can take charge of your own destiny and create a business that reflects your unique strengths and aspirations.

In the world of affiliate marketing, you are in control. You have the ability to set your own goals, determine your own income, and shape your own future. Whether you want to work part-time or build a full-time business, the choice is yours. So, take the leap, embrace the entrepreneurial spirit, and become your own boss in the exciting world of affiliate marketing.

Section 4: Diversify Your Income Streams

Affiliate marketing provides an opportunity to diversify your income streams and reduce financial risks. By promoting products across different niches, you can ensure that you are not solely reliant on a single income source. This diversification not only brings stability but also allows you to tap into various markets and adapt to changing trends. 

Imagine having multiple streams of income flowing in from different sources. If one niche experiences fluctuations, you can rely on the others to keep generating revenue. This flexibility is crucial in the ever-changing world of online business. 

Utilising your skills and passions, you can explore different niches and find products that align with your interests. This way, you can enjoy what you do while earning money. As you expand your affiliate portfolio, you can create a reliable and sustainable income stream that continues to generate even when one niche experiences fluctuations. 

Diversifying your income streams through affiliate marketing is a smart move that can lead you on the path to financial freedom.

Section 5: Utilise Your Skills and Passions

Finding the perfect affiliate niche is not just about earning commissions, but also about utilising your existing skills and passions. Take some time to evaluate your interests and expertise. What topics or industries excite you? By focusing on areas that align with your skills and passions, you can build credibility and create content that resonates with your target audience. 

When you are passionate about a subject, it shines through in your work. Your enthusiasm will captivate your audience and make them more likely to trust your recommendations. Plus, your existing knowledge and skills will give you a competitive edge in your chosen niche. 

For example, if you have a background in finance, you could explore affiliate programs in the personal finance or investment industry. Your expertise will allow you to provide valuable insights and advice to your audience, establishing yourself as a trusted authority.

Remember, affiliate marketing is not just about making money; it's about sharing your passion and expertise with others. So, leverage your skills and passions to create content that not only drives sales but also brings you joy and fulfillment along the way.

Section 6: Develop Valuable Relationships

In the world of affiliate marketing, building relationships is crucial for long-term success. Connecting with top performers and industry players allows you to gain insights, exchange ideas, and collaborate on projects. By networking within the affiliate marketing community, you open doors to valuable partnerships, joint ventures, and mentorship opportunities. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals accelerates your growth and allows you to learn from those who have already achieved financial freedom through affiliate marketing.

To develop valuable relationships, start by attending industry conferences and events. These gatherings provide an excellent opportunity to meet influential people in the field. Additionally, join online forums and communities where you can engage with fellow affiliate marketers, ask questions, and share your experiences. Actively participate in discussions and offer help whenever possible.

Remember, relationships are built on trust and mutual support. Be genuine, provide value, and be willing to help others. By nurturing these connections, you'll create a strong network that can propel your affiliate marketing journey to new heights.

Section 7: Embrace the Digital Age

In today's digital age, e-commerce is thriving, and affiliate marketing is at the forefront of this boom. By embracing the digital landscape, you can tap into the enormous potential of the online market. The convenience of online shopping and the increasing number of internet users provide affiliate marketers with a vast pool of potential customers. Putting your marketing efforts in the digital space allows you to capitalise on this growing trend and maximise your earning potential.

With the rise of social media platforms, search engines, and online advertising, reaching your target audience has never been easier. You can leverage these digital tools to create engaging content, build a strong online presence, and attract customers to your affiliate products or services. Additionally, the ability to track and analyse data in real-time enables you to optimise your marketing strategies and make data-driven decisions.

Embracing the digital age opens up a world of opportunities for affiliate marketers. It allows you to reach a global audience, scale your business, and stay ahead of the competition. So, don't hesitate to dive into the digital realm and unlock the full potential of affiliate marketing.

Conclusion

Affiliate marketing offers a unique and unexpected path to financial freedom. With no need to create your own product, the power of online marketing, the flexibility of being your own boss, and the opportunity to diversify your income streams, affiliate marketing provides endless possibilities. 

By utilising your skills and passions, developing valuable relationships, and embracing the digital age, you can embark on a journey towards financial independence. Imagine having the freedom to work from anywhere, set your own schedule, and earn passive income while you sleep. 

So, what are you waiting for? Start your affiliate marketing business today and unlock the door to a life of freedom and financial success. With determination, perseverance, and a willingness to learn, you can turn your dreams into reality. Take the leap and embrace the unexpected path to financial freedom through affiliate marketing. Your future awaits!

[reasonsforhope]

"When politicians unveil a new national park or wilderness area, it’s often accompanied by debates about what effect it will have on the livelihoods of people living nearby. In some places, it can be welcomed as a boon, attracting tourists and their dollars. In others, it’s booed as a job killer, squelching the chance for new mining, grazing, logging or other industries.

As nations promise to nearly double the amount of protected land on the planet, from 17% to 30% of the Earth’s surface, these debates are likely to happen more often. Now there is new evidence that it’s possible to have both land protections and a growing economy. But it’s not guaranteed. “Achieving both aims is more common than we previously expected,” said Binbin Li, an environmental scientist at Duke Kunshan University, a Chinese institution affiliated with Duke University. “But that balance depends on socioeconomic conditions near a protected area.”

It can be hard to tease out causal links between two things as complex as the changing condition of a landscape and the economy of a nearby city. Did a town flourish because of a nearby national park, or because an increase in remote work enabled people to move there? Did another town collapse because a forest reserve contributed to the demise of a sawmill, or was it part of a bigger downturn in the timber industry?

To try to clarify the effects, Li and colleagues at Duke University and Shandong University in China compared the fates of “twin” towns and cities, as well as comparable patches of land. They identified more than 10,000 protected areas in countries around the globe, then examined how economic activity changed in nearby settlements between 2013 and 2020, compared to similar settlements more than 20 kilometers from any protected land. They also matched the protected area to similar nearby unprotected areas, to see if they fared differently.

The scientists used satellite images to track changes on the landscape, such as forest turning to farmland. They also tracked changes in the amount of nighttime artificial light as a surrogate for economic activity.

The satellite images revealed that in many cases, more trees and grasslands stayed standing and the lights shown more brightly at the same time. In about half the protected areas, there was simultaneous progress in both conservation and economic development, the scientists reported on June 20 in Current Biology.

Land protection was broadly successful at reducing the loss of forest and grasslands – more than 90% of the protected areas either lost no natural land cover, or less than their unprotected twins, the researchers found. At the same time, 60% of neighboring communities had as much or more of an increase in nightlights than places further from protected land...

Land protection and economic growth went hand in hand most easily in wealthier countries, around smaller protected areas, and in places with some of the infrastructure critical for economic development, such as roads. In places without these features the ecological fate of the land and the economic fortune of nearby towns was more likely to diverge or decline together the researchers found.

“Conservation does not happen in a silo,” said co-author Stuart Pimm, a Duke University ecologist. “We must consider local development alongside biodiversity conservation to know where and how to protect areas to benefit both the environment and humans.” ...

The results underscore the ways in which poverty and environmental degradation can be bound together. If poverty isn’t dealt with, creating protected areas could set the stage for both loss of biodiversity and economic development, the researchers warned. The flip side is that with careful planning, conservation could help set nearby towns on a path out of poverty. As an example, the scientists pointed to Costa Rica’s Corcovado National Park, which has become a hub for ecotourism on the country’s Pacific coast.

“We need to get to a win-win outcome more often, especially in the most biodiverse regions that can ill-afford losing out on economic development or biodiversity,” said Li. “We cannot address biodiversity loss without addressing local development issues.”

-via Anthropocene Magazine, June 26, 2024

[mixelation]

other social media AU concepts

the akatsuki youtube channel exists to theoretically promote them but for a long time it's the most random grab bag of "world's most famous criminals, doing something wildly boring." their social media is technically supposed to be tori's job but she's given no real direction over it except sometimes kakuzu is like "we have a brand deal" and she's like "what?" and then kakuzu is only mildly successful at forcing deidara to do an ad read and it's REALLY obvious deidara is trying to read a cue card and getting distracted. all the comments are jokes about deidara maybe not being able to read and then tori has to prevent him from tracking people down and murdering them.

tori DOES like running @/akatsuki_official on ninja twitter though. she works through a lot of her problems by tweeting threats at world governments and then pein is like "good job, i guess"

i went back and forth on his her affiliation with akatsuki is known and i think it's funnier if the world thinks she's just the world's weirdest woman, but akatsuki realizes they can promote themselves via her channel. like "i hire a ninja for a day" is a popular type of video but tbh akatsuki is too expensive for most influencers. kakuzu is like "free ad!" and tori keeps getting sent out with random people and every single one of their fake missions cannot be turned into an ad that gives off the vibes akatsuki wants. either it's like "wait actually this is going to seem terrifying" or "itachi just seems unfriendly and weird in this one" but then "wait no getting drunk with deidara makes them TOO friendly, we have to be cool"

i do like my idea where she ends up cohost with itachi on a true crime show because truly itachi is not interesting without a cohost. tori says the most insane shit you've ever heard and he manages to say something even more insane with 80% fewer words. she gets him to say actually interesting things and he keeps her on track. a lot of people literally only watch for itachi and think tori is super annoying, even though without her his show would just be him staring blnakly at something. every tenth comment is "so when does itachi beat someone to death with a shovel"

tori gets into a controversy because it comes out multiple people have decided it would be funny to hire ninja to kill her and every single person's attempts have failed in bizarre ways. one guy tried to hire from konoha and a ninja turned up, asked him a bunch of questions about if HE knows tori, and then left without taking the job. no one's successfully hired ninja can like.... find proof she exists. there is no proof she's been to many of her locations beyond the video she took of them. rumors start that all her videos are staged, or that tori herself is a ninja. (obito refutes this by posting a master cut of her dropping things and tripping over shit, including a solid 90 second segment of her trying and failing to kill a mosquito)

she has a video called "visiting my haters in their homes" she has to take day within hours

[charles-leclerizz]

FORMULA FOR LOVE

With turns sharper than a Formula one track, Indian, British driver Aisha Patel has embarked on her first ever season in formula one. Join her drama & adrenaline filled races that will have you gripping the edge of your seat !

[@charles-leclerizz is not and never will be, in the forthcoming future, affiliated with Netflix, the FIA or Official FORMULA ONE. All scenarios, character actions, characters and race outcomes are purely fictional and should not be taken seriously.]

Aisha Patel · 🪷

Porsche F1 TEAM · 🪷

The Relationships · 🪷

Challenges · 🪷

⸻ EPISODES:

TRAILER : THE BEGINNING

It's the dawn of a new era.

Upcoming stardome. Streaming only on Netflix

🥭 EPISODE 01 : Start your engine

It's light's off and away we go with newcomer Aisha Patel, the first south-asian female driver in Formula one. Join her in her first ever race in Bahrain and understand the young talent's personality. And see the grid's reaction to the true needle in a haystack.

LENGTH : 51 minutes, 49 seconds

WORD COUNT : 10 K [ 10366 words ]

🥭 EPISODE 02 : Racing Hearts

A few months into the 2024 season Aisha has met someone that ignites her heart like a malfunctioning engine. Will she have to retire from the race, or will she cool off before it's too late?

🥭 EPISODE 03 : Speed of Love

The teams around the paddock are starting to notice Aisha's success, winning race after race, the Indian rookie has impressed and sparked jealousy all around. Will she shatter beneath the pressure, or will she blossom like a lotus?

🥭 EPISODE 04 : Heartbreak Circuit

Icarus has always flown too close to the sun, no matter the rendition. And when too many people have too many opinions, Aisha must realise that a straw can truly break a camel back.

🥭 EPISODE 05 : Victory Lap

Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Aisha finally collects her flames and moulds herself like glass into a beautiful sculpture that refracts light into beautiful shades for all to bask in.

🥭 EPISODE 06 : Love's pit stop

To accelerate or to take a sharp turn? Aisha is met with odd twists within her heart that she will need to fight to escape from. One will come out victorious whilst another, is left in 11th place.

🥭 EPISODE 07 : Racing against time

A simple sign on the dotted line, and just like Ariel, she had signed her voice away. What trials and tribulations is Aisha forced to face within her personal and professional prison?

🥭 EPISODE 08 : Crossing the finish line

Only a few races away from her greatest win, Aisha needs to tie off some hard to grapple with sailors knots, unless she wants to be floating away into the great blue for eternity.

🥭 EPISODE 09 : Heartfelt Victory

It's the end, the last time the lights go off for the 2025 season and Aisha looks back on her year in formula one. Sticking it to those who doubted her and winning where other's thought impossible.

[NOTE ! There will be smaller epilogues, episodes and fillers in between these. for example, a vogue 20 questions or a "what's in my bag" etc. Just for funsies.]

[NOTE ! The couples made in this series will have their own request-able time period, if you want to see something specific from a certain couple within the show, just let me know.]

[NOTE ! The tracking tag is as follows : [#formulaforlove]]

EVERYTHING WRITTEN CAN/WILL BE SUBJECT TO EDITS, CHANGES ETC.

honourary tags [for special pookies] : @disneyprincemuke

[skrrts]

Heart's Contradiction Series * Choi San (mature!)

✧ afab!reader x choi san ✧ reader is a journalist, san is CEO of a construction company, both in their late 20s ✧ genre: non-idol, soulmates, villains, romance, business drama, angst ✧ word count: 12,6k ✧ warnings: adult language, rude coworkers, insults, threats, injuries, eating/food, mention of the death of a family member, aggressive violent crowd, suggestive moment, mention of corrupt politics, pressure, she/her use for reader by others ✧ inspired by this playlist ; track: neon lights - pim stones

in a world where finding your soulmate is everyone's highest goal, there is more at stake than just finding love. your soulmate is meant to change your life forever, for better or worse. what will you do when, after searching for so long, you come to realize that your soulmate is seen as the villain in somebody else's story, maybe even your own? choi san is the ceo of "mountain rise constructors", the number one in your country. it's no secret that his firm threatened and forced many neighborhoods to sell their homes for the sake of building new cityscapes. you are a journalist dreaming of writing about deep stories and dread being picked for a dull interview with mister choi. the least you expected was for, after all this time of waiting for your soulmate, to find out that it's no other than the infamous "villain of the common citizens". suddenly, you are dealing with not only him but also what it means to be fated to be with somebody all those around you seem to reject.

         everything is strictly fictional! no connection to any real people!

a/n: welcome to the first of three one-shots to the theme "villain and soulmates". for san, i decided to go with a corruptive CEO genre but it's not too detailed. the focus is on dealing with how the public sees your soulmate and how you decide in the end, if you care more for that or him. i put lots of work into this so, hope you like it 🫶

Everyone had a soulmate somewhere out there, but not everyone was chosen to find them.

It seemed ironic that a man of wealth and power was denied the promise of love. So many looked at him in envy for having it all, except for that one thing everyone longed for the most. The every day people found it so quickly, yet here he was, slowly approaching his 30s, still missing that one thing.

No money in the world could give him that, not until his one would somehow find their way into his life. It was cruel because fate needed to bring you together. It required a touch, one that only needed to be brief, for the mark of souls to finally appear on top of your hand, showing you the person who would finally complete you.

Every soul was quietly longing for its counterpart, even the soul of a man like Choi San.

Maybe even more so him, a man constantly surrounded by those who hated him, those who only wanted his money and others seeking success.

A brief knock forced his gaze to withdraw from the large window front showing the stunning new city center his company had built over the past two and a half years, a gift to the mayor in favor of Mountain Rise Constructors.

His assistant bowed as she placed a file on his desk.

“Mister Choi, I have completed the selection of magazines and newspapers that would be suited for your interview intentions. They are unrelated to our company and affiliates but likely see great benefit in cooperating with us. I have already prepared a request indicating that you will support free speech and include the thoughts of the citizens. You only need to choose one.”

Recently, voices had been loud about how all the newspaper articles in favor of the company were somehow connected to them, and while San did not necessarily care, he was willing to play along a little.

He flipped through the selection and pulled out one.

For a moment, his gaze lingered on the photo of the interviewer his assistant suggested. She really cared for even the smallest details, including who likely wouldn’t dare to be too nosy.

“Let’s go with this one,” he forced his gaze away.

“Schedule it for tomorrow evening; it should not interfere with my flight to New York.”

San turned around again, looking back out of the window, ignoring how the woman bowed.

“As you wish, I will prepare everything.”

The door closed, and San’s thumb brushed over the spot where his soul mark was still missing.

“What the fuck? She didn’t invite you because you haven’t found your soulmate yet? What a bitch!” Mingi blared out, causing the closer tables to look at yours.

Yunho was quick to tug on his best friend’s jacket. “Shh, don’t be so loud!”

The younger one huffed.

“What about it? Let them look! It’s so rude. We should all support each other in finding our soulmates, not act like we’re better just because we were desperate and touched every hand until it came out positive!”

Jongho furrowed his brows slightly as he sipped on his drink. “I don’t even see why anyone would be disappointed not to get an invitation. As for myself, I am quite delighted I can spend a wonderful weekend all relaxed and by myself.”

You watched in amusement as your friends discussed the situation. It helped not to think too deeply about it. All of you worked for a local newspaper — not the biggest, but it was doing okay.

Your boss's favorite journalist recently found her soulmate and now was throwing a big wedding party, inviting almost everyone except those who had yet to find their soulmates, leaving only you and Jongho.

You were a little envious of how relaxed he was, in no rush, believing that waiting was just part of the journey for him.

“It’s okay, she never liked me, and I think that wouldn’t have been any different even if I’d found mine,” you shrugged casually.

Yunho sighed before smiling: “I’m sure it’s all part of the picture. Just wait, she’ll be so jealous by the time you find the one. No doubt, they will be as great as you.”

Mingi gave the older one a small shove, chuckling. “Always big with the words, Mister 'Found Mine at Age Seventeen.'” Yunho blushed, but all of you ended up laughing.

“Anyway, I have to get back. Thanks for hanging out with me. I��m looking forward to reading your concert feedback.”

You waved them goodbye and headed back to your office together with Jongho, who returned to his own desk. You had barely sat down when your boss looked out of his office, seemingly annoyed, glaring at you.

Why was it that everything about newspaper jobs only picked up the bad clichés from movies but not a single cool one? This was never how you imagined it to go after graduating from journalism school. You wanted to travel, see the world, and report on real stories, not changes in the neighborhood nobody cared about.

He hinted for you to close the door to his office. You didn’t hide your displeasure at being interrupted like that after lunch, especially when you had only had a meeting right before that.

“Minjae will take over the news story about the struggles with the local stray cats. I’ve got something else for you.”

You made a face. After almost begging not to get another one of those stories and being told to remind yourself how every story mattered, now he just wanted to take it away?

“But I’m as good as done! I’ve written the draft, I even prepared the photos!”

Your complaint was ignored, and he threw a file toward you.

“You should thank me! If you do well with this, it might be your way to switch departments!” His voice was more angry than supportive, making you doubtful.

As you opened the file and read over it, you were sure he really must hate you. This was punishment more than anything.

“You can’t be serious! You want me to run an interview with THE Choi San from construction company? First, why the fuck would he want to work with us? And second, did you see what happened to the last journalists who interviewed him? They either lost any respect because they were practically begging on their knees for his attention or were roasted by him so badly that everyone doubted they were cut out for the job!”

You pointed at the paper.

“And tomorrow? This isn’t even twenty-four hours to prepare! It would take days!”

The man was clicking on his computer, typing letters that never formed real words. He was obviously trying to get rid of you.

“Consider it a challenge. If you master this, everyone will respect you, and you’ll be able to pick the stories you want to write about. That’s all. You may go.”

You stared at him, imagining how a hole would open and he’d disappear inside. But when nothing changed, you growled and left, making your way home where you’d have some time to sit down and whine about the cruelty of the world.

Fate was cruel, it made your job horrible and allowed everyone to mock you for not having a soulmate — someone to comfort and support you.

At least you had Sandeoki. The grey cat was the only soulmate you needed; she didn’t make any stupid requests and certainly supported your single existence.

It was the cliché story: the small family business turning into one of the largest and most successful construction companies in the entire world throughout three generations, not only active in one but several countries with ties to the political world.

Choi San’s father was the one who made big changes, and his son successfully adapted to the modern world, understanding the balance required to deal with changing demands. It was one perfect story if one ignored how hundreds of families were forcefully chased away from their generational homes to replace them with modern buildings with rents only the upper class could afford.

It was no surprise how most were far too terrified to write sincere articles about this man, not when he had so much influence that he could make sure you lost your job within a blink and likely shut down an entire magazine in less than a day if he wasn’t pleased with your choice of words.

The article was meant to summarize the reconstruction of the city center, highly praised by architects and the press alike but rejected by everyday citizens. A local park, which had been there for more than fifteen years, had been erased in favor of a massive fountain, food stalls, and modern sitting areas. Your boss wanted to get into this man’s good graces; it would be beneficial for the newspaper to be blessed by Choi San.

How was it that you couldn’t entirely deny that there was at least a hint of fear? You worked too hard to get here and endured too many awful stories to lose all chances of ever becoming the journalist you wanted to be. The feisty ten-year-old who played reporter every day after school was long gone.

You tried to excuse yourself with the reminder that you wanted to tell stories, not interview rich men with too much money, asking for a report on their work to boost their ego.

It seemed a little disrespectful that the interview was located in the VIP section of the airport, which was locked off just for this man. You were told he had to leave for an important business trip right after.

Tch, rich prick.

You refused to dress up, instead wearing a pair of jeans, a casual blouse, and your hair tied up, with a pair of glasses balanced at the end of your nose as you read your notes for a final time. It was your way of rebelling when he decided to act like that.

A woman walked in, dressed in a skirt and blouse, with no doubt that her shoes cost more than your entire outfit.

“Thank you for waiting. Mister Choi is now ready for the interview. You have thirty minutes; there will be no time to extend it as he has a flight to catch. We have reviewed your questions, and they have been accepted. We expect the draft of the interview before publishing by the end of the week.”

You were a little surprised to hear they actually did not reject the spicier ones you included but weren’t sure you would dare to actually ask.

The woman stepped aside, tilting her head: “Mister Choi.”

The moment he walked in, you couldn’t deny the presence and authority he portrayed. It wasn’t just the perfectly tailored suit or the styled-back black hair but also something in his eyes. The coat indicated he was about to travel, but the fact he wore black leather clothes seemed a little strange in the middle of summer.

He offered you a gloved hand. Oh great, did he think you were some bacteria? You squeezed it briefly.

“You must be Y/N. I appreciate you were able to make it here.”

You cleared your throat, trying to ignore that weird smile on his lips. There was nothing wrong with it, but maybe you were too biased now, trying to find him unpleasant.

“Thank you for choosing our newspaper for the article. We appreciate your time,” you kept it casual, staring down at your notes as it seemed he was looking at your face.

“The construction of the new city center has only recently been completed, and there will be a large celebration in its honor in a few weeks. What was your inspiration for going with this design?”

You didn’t care about the answer. He likely had been asked this several times before.

His gaze was glued to you, staring like he was trying to read your thoughts.

No, you would not be one of those reporters who got intimidated by him! Not after less than ten minutes in his presence. To think he could make you feel that way just by staring.

“The face of the city is ever-changing, and all buildings around it have long been replaced by cityscapes. We can pride ourselves on some of the best constructions in the world for a capital. Not only is our design one that will not be unpleasant in ten years, but we also have incorporated natural materials and created around seven hundred new workplaces, which have all been maintained. Now, the center is in harmony with its surroundings.”

Yunho always said, if you felt intimidated, just imagine the other person in a silly outfit.

He was too fucking hot to do that.

He did look a bit like your cat though. The thought made you cough, and he furrowed his brows for a moment.

“Excuse me… The harmony between the new center and the surrounding buildings cannot be denied. However, it came at the cost of the park, a beloved spot for families for almost fifteen years. The new construction only has limited plants, and there is no place for families. How do you deal with that feedback?”

He still smiled.

God, you wanted to poke his cheek to see if he would stop smiling like that! It was what you did when your cat would glare at you for denying her a second dinner.

“Our design was one of many, and the mayor had the final say in the selection. She has done so in the best interest of the city. As with every construction, it is impossible to please everyone, but the truth is also that families have long since moved to more comfortable parts of the city, and we are currently working to build a new park double the size not too far from the old one. The trees, in fact, were all secured and will be relocated.”

He talked too smoothly, everything was aligned. Maybe it was because he knew very well he had already won; people would eventually shut up, and nothing would change.

The rich always won. This was why you never wanted to be a reporter; those stories made no change, only frustration.

“Your company’s growth has been impressive. You recently opened another center in Japan. What would you say is your secret to success?”

Here, butter yourself with compliments, Sannie Cat! He would look cute with cat ears though. Urgh Please!

“I still think of us as a family business. Trust in those we work with—without knowledgeable people and experts, it wouldn’t have been doable.”

As if, the success came with the money!

The next question slipped out before you even thought it through because it was not on the list you had to hand in prior.

“You are one of the most successful men in the world, your career is truly admirable, but you have yet to find the one thing everyone is looking for: your soulmate. Would you say this affects your projects, or does your business benefit from your full attention?”

You raised your brow and felt way too cool just because you could read the surprise on his face.

Surely, nobody ever dared to call him out like that, but to this man’s demise, it was public knowledge that he did not have a soulmate

Mister Choi actually needed a moment before his demeanor was collected again, and for a second, you felt as if he was even amused.

“I admit, this is a unique question I have not considered before. My company is my pride and the center of my life; my attention is fully dedicated to it. But looking at my parents, my friends, their soulmates always added to their lives rather than asking for sacrifices. I am sure that mine won’t be different.”

You scratched your left hand; it kept itching. Maybe it was the stress.

“A little bit of a romantic then, hoping for somebody who will just close their eyes.”

You were digging your own grave here; you were just too proud now to go back or maybe it was too late.

“Maybe somebody bold to challenge me instead, keeping me engaged” he offered.

“The time is up,” the assistant stepped in, and you were about to complain that it had not been thirty minutes, but he rose, and there was nothing you could do.

“It was a pleasure to meet you, Y/N. I admit, I am curious about your report,” while polite, you could sense that slight mock in his voice. You barely had enough to write about what you came for.

He only gave you a slight bow before walking off; you could only stare after him before hissing.

“Prick! Pft, thinking how I dared to think he looks like my precious kitten!”

“I am very sorry, Mister Choi. I did not expect her to be so feisty. I have taken a careful look, and based on my research, she is known for always sticking to the script,” the woman apologized, but San did not care too much.

He relaxed back into the seat of his private jet, pulling off the gloves from his hands.

“It’s alright. I do enjoy a little change now and then. It grows boring if they only try to get my favor. It’s punishment enough that it will barely make enough for an article. Let's leave it there.”

San shrugged out of his cloak and picked up his phone while the pilot was preparing for the flight. He’d have preferred to wear something more comfortable, but there were just too many schedules waiting for him — another sleepless night surrounded by people seeking his support or, more so, his money.

It was tiring, but he could barely act like he wasn’t used to it. Maybe it was how the lines all blurred, how nothing really seemed threatening anymore, nor did he understand why the public complained when he only did his job, hired by those they voted for.

He scratched his hand thoughtfully; it had been itching for the past half hour.

“Is everything alright, Sir?” his assistant asked.

Could she never just give him some peace?

“Yes, it’s nothing,” he replied and looked at his hand.

On the back of his right hand, a symbol appeared: a small moon surrounded by what seemed to be thorns.

For a moment, all San could do was stare at it.

As a boy, he had spent hours holding his mother’s hand, looking at her soul mark, asking why it looked the way it did. She would tell him that it always resembled the personalities of the soulmates, perfectly in sync even if not always clear in sight.

His head shot up, his heart beating loud enough to ring in his ears as he desperately went through every person he had encountered in the past two hours since putting on his gloves.

It was silly because he knew the answer; only a single person had squeezed his hand.

“Stop the flight!” His voice rolled like thunder through the airplane, and he only bothered to grab his phone and coat.

The staff of the jet and his assistant could only stare in confusion as Choi San rushed out.

He had finally found his soulmate.

You weren’t what he had expected, but it wouldn’t matter.

No, San had made that decision a long time ago.

He trusted fate. This person was his fate.

He would take his soulmate as their way, because surely they would do the same for him. Wasn't that why nature creatured this type of bond to begin with?

To find comfort and security, love, in a world that was anything but kind.

There was no way he’d let you go now that you had finally arrived.

“I am waiting for my wink of fate,” you sighed into the phone, Jongho listening calmly as you reported about the interview.

It seemed a little unfair: in movies, now was the time when the life of the protagonist turned around. Suddenly, there would be a real job opportunity, and a wink of fate would reveal the best friend to be the true love of their life, previously overlooked, after some big asshole ruined the day.

However, in those fictional worlds, people chose their lovers, which wasn’t how it went here. Sure, those without soulmates had affairs and desires that needed to be fed, but it was not the same. Nothing could live up to the completeness your soulmate made you feel. At least, that was what everyone said, from your parents to your friends.

“You worry too much. As for the interview, I can write you a decent intro and we’ll just sell it as a documentary story. Don’t stress about it,” Jongho reassured you on the other side of the line.

“You are the best, did I tell you that?” you sighed, thankful for his support, even though you knew you brought this on yourself by being the most unprofessional you had ever been.

You were leaning against your car in front of the airport when a figure started to appear in the distance. You paid attention because, as a journalist, you learned to look out for details that did not fit, and the way this person moved indicated they were looking for something in a great rush.

As you stared, you kept scratching your hand, listening to Jongho, who was telling you something about your boss after you left the office yesterday.

It took you a moment to realize that the figure rushing toward you was none other than Choi San.

“Fuck,” the word slipped out before you thought about it, and Jongho grew silent.

“What happened?” Jongho sounded alarmed.

“The fucking CEO… he’s walking towards me. Shit, I swear he was in a rush and I did not provoke him that much. Ah, I better get going! Talk to you later.”

“If I don’t hear from you by the evening, I’ll call the police,” you heard Jongho say as you threw your bag on the passenger seat and slipped into the driver’s seat.

The moment your door closed, there he was. You could see a mixture of relief and concern on his face when he found you. You stared in disbelief as the fancy-dressed man, whose hair now seemed a little messed up like he had run his hands through it too often, placed himself right in front of your car.

“I need to talk to you. Now.” His voice struggled between a dominant approach, likely from shouting commands to his staff, and attempting to be… soft?

What the hell was this all about?

“Get out of my way,” you said, your hand indicating for him to move, but instead, he leaned forward, getting comfortable on your bonnet like a bartender relaxing against his bar while talking to a customer.

At this point, you realized that he was likely doing his very best to force you out of the car. Now your thoughts were running wild, trying to remember if you ever heard a story of this guy going after interviewers, but no, he was too good for that. He just used other people to wash out the dirt.

You exhaled and finally decided to get your bravery back and got out of the car.

“Mister Choi, if you’re suddenly freaking out about that interview, there is no reason to. While I let my professionalism slip for a moment, I have no intentions to write about your personal life…”

He made it to your side by the time you prepared a speech and found yourself pinned against the car. Suddenly, this guy seemed much taller than he did half an hour ago.

“What are you… doing?”

His breath tickled your skin, and for a moment, he was looking at your face before, more tenderly than you expected, reaching out for your left hand.

“I knew it.”

You swallowed thickly, feeling strange. The way your body suddenly reacted to him was odd, and your eyes lowered a little.

“I don’t… what are you talking about?”

San’s face turned, and he looked at you, turning your hand around.

After all this time, years of forcing yourself not to shake any hand just with the hope of finding your soulmate like that anymore, you stopped to stare at the spot that was meant to carry it.

How did you not notice that a mark appeared?!

The man entwined his fingers with yours and turned them around so you could comfortably see how his matched with yours: a moon surrounded by thorns.

Science had failed to explain soulmates, the marks, or the way how every pair was affected differently by it. It was only certain that they all shared a deep bond of trust, which could be challenging when the people affected were more distrustful in their general nature.

“You… are my soulmate?”

Oh great, you should not have joked about waiting for your protagonist moment. Nobody told you that getting the villain was a possibility.

“Let’s go.”

San simply skipped your reply, and before you knew it, a firm hand held you and pulled you along. You were glad now to be one of those silly people who always carried their phone around their body because otherwise, you’d be gone without anything.

“Hold on, what are you doing? Mister Choi! You cannot just drag me away!”

To your surprise, he stopped and turned around.

“San. There is no reason for us to bother with titles and surnames,” he simply replied.

So this man, one of the richest in the world, just figured out you were his soulmate, and it was just okay… you would have expected somebody like him to be disappointed, maybe judge a little.

You almost would have preferred it because it would have made fighting back easier.

“Mis… San, can we like slow down for a moment? You realized we are soulmates and just ditched that flight that was so important just an hour ago?”

You tried to phrase words that would distract you from the loud heartbeat in your chest.

“Nothing is more important than you now. I have waited patiently for you to finally show. Business meetings can be rescheduled, but I need to first take care of you. I do not see where the issue is. As it is custom in our society, two soulmates naturally belong to one another. We are fated, so there should be no concern for you. We will move on and return home, we can discuss everything else there.”

He was already back on the move when the words slowly sunk in. San really just took the hardcore route of the soulmate system and considered you went from zero to one hundred within less than five minutes too.

“Home? Please, hold on!”

This time, your tug was firmer, and a frustrated growl left his lips as he stopped again and fully turned to you, yet his hand almost felt desperate like you could vanish should he let go.

“I do not understand why you would reject it! Did you not wait for me? Have you not yearned to finally be completed too?”

His words hit you, and for a moment, you just stared.

Of course, you did, you always wanted to get home and have somebody waiting for you, who would kiss you and hold you, love only you just the way you were, and you had forced yourself to act like it was fine, that you could live without it while everyone around you got just that.

But was this how you wanted it to go?

“Of course I waited, all the time! I just… need a moment to let this settle. You just rushed here, yelled at me that this is it, and now you are kidnapping me.”

The word made him frown; he was obviously confused by your reaction, but before he could speak up again, a fancy car appeared.

The door opened, and from the backseat, a very handsome man about the same age stepped out, his long hair tied in a bun with a suit matching it perfectly, though he wore a shirt rather than a button-up.

“Wooyoung,” San sighed, his body relaxed a little, but he was still holding your hand.

“My my, you made quite a fuss. What kind of security guard am I if you just run away like that? Tell me,” he chuckled and looked at you, his dark eyes scanning over your appearance before he smiled.

“Miss Y/N, it is my pleasure to meet you,” he bowed playfully. “I am Jung Wooyoung, head of security for the Choi family. We have waited for you for quite some time, but please relax and know we are already making preparations to find the most suitable arrangements for you.”

Oh great, everyone around you had turned insane now.

“She doesn’t want me!”

You didn’t expect San to sound so pitiful when he looked away, Wooyoung looked in confusion, blinking before chuckling.

“Ah, I see. I’m starting to get an idea of how this went,” he looked from the CEO back to you.

“You might not think it, but San and I grew up together. He can be a little… direct. Please, let me apologize on his behalf. May I make a suggestion? Let me drive the both of you to that restaurant which is quite popular right now. We’ll arrange for some privacy, and you two can talk properly.”

At least one man was mature… you looked up at San, who seemed tense, awaiting your answer.

“Fine, let’s do that. I did not reject him, I merely disagree with being kidnapped.”

"I didn't want to kidnap you, I was taking you to my place. How can a soulmate kidnap his partner?!"

San was about to further counter, but Wooyoung already opened the car, indicating for you to get in.

“I won’t let go of your hand,” San replied, looking away.

You sighed, shaking your head: “Fine then.”

Without hesitation, you pulled him along, and you found yourself sitting inside the most luxurious car you had ever seen.

You swallowed hard as the vehicle moved, leaving your own car and the airport behind, with a hand suddenly clinging desperately to you.

The drive felt like an eternity. San was staring out of the window without letting go of your hand for even a second. It was as if he hoped to find an answer there, a way of clearing his confusion about why you were so resistant to the bond.

Years ago, when he still hadn't found his soulmate, he made a pact with himself to be accepting of his, no matter who it was. He simply had to believe fate would choose somebody right for him and in return, he’d be acceptable.

No, he held no intentions of asking you to change. San did not want you to dress or act differently. If anything, his words during the interview had been sincere. He liked the idea of his soulmate not just giving in to everything he said but having an opinion of their own.

As playful and cheeky as Wooyoung was, by the time they arrived, everything was perfectly planned and prepared. He’d have to give his best friend a quiet thanks later. While it was true that they came from very different backgrounds, the younger always had been his companion, understanding of San’s nature but never too shy to put him back in place if needed.

San was hesitant to let go of your hand by the time the two of you made it to the table but gave in, taking off his coat as he finally attempted to fix his hair.

He watched you carefully, as it seemed this was the first time you had been taken to such a place. If not for his worry about being rejected by you, he’d have enjoyed how endearing you looked.

“I recommend the truffle-infused chicken breast with wild mushroom risotto. It pairs nicely with a glass of Château Margaux,” he cleared his throat.

You looked at him for a moment before laughing. His cheeks heated up when he saw how you tried to hide it. It was strange; he was seemingly rushing through emotions he had never experienced before like this.

“I've never been to a place like this before. I think the fanciest I ever have been was some American grill Dad took us to after being promoted at his bank job. Only the higher ranks at the newspapers go to places like this.”

San paid close attention to every little detail you were willing to share with him.

“I only understood half of it but yes, it sounds lovely. I’ll take that.”

The waiter interrupted, and San decided to order the same for the two of you. He poured you a glass of water before doing so himself, leading it to his lips. Patience was difficult when it came to everything truly important to him.

You, on the other hand, seemed very different. You were quick and bold but without a rush. San’s gaze met yours; it was hard not to constantly look at you.

“So, how do you imagine this going? I move into your place, quit my job, and become your spouse? I’m not sure if I am made to be the one on the side of one of the world’s most successful businessmen. I know nothing about those things. I always cared more for heart-moving stories than money and such…”

As much as you tried to make it sound like a joke, San was able to read on your face that there was a hint of worry this might be accurate.

“Well, yes. My penthouse, as well as our other properties, are large enough for you to have your own rooms. That way we can comfortably get to know each other while still maintaining some privacy. There will be no rush to get married. I believe once the both of us enter the age of thirty, it will be an excellent timing.”

There was a brief pause as the wine was served and he nodded.

“There is no need for you to know our business. If you desire to learn, I will teach you but I will consider you my adviser either way. However, you are my soulmate, not my slave. I won’t ask you to quit your job or to stop doing things that bring you joy.”

He swallowed the commentary on how the newspapers you worked at were garbage and at least, you should let him help you to find a better one.

San took a sip as you seemed to contemplate everything he just told you.

“Did you really think I would demand you give up your entire life to fulfill the role of my spouse?” he placed the glass on the table.

You were blushing now, trying to find your words. It was really interesting how your personality often seemed so counterproductive to your occupation as a journalist.

“Maybe? I’m not sure… I guess, I just expected that you would tell me I cannot do it anymore, that I had to change everything.”

Ah, he had always been prepared for this kind of scenario as well. He knew what kind of picture was painted of him in the media but San could not entirely deny that parts of it were true, maybe more than his soulmate would like.

“Well, there will be some changes. For one, you will be given a security guard of your own. Wooyoung will choose somebody together with you, that way it is someone you trust and feel comfortable with. Once the public learns of you being my soulmate, it would be too dangerous to be without one. You will become a target for those who wish for me to be gone.”

It was a strange moment to watch your expression slip while the food was served and slowly, it seemed to settle in what it would really mean to be with him. San wished he could just take your hand and promise you that everything would be alright.

“Y/N, nobody will ever harm you. I swear that by all I have achieved and my own life. I was sincere when I said, you are now the most important part of my life and I will see it through that you are safe and happy, no matter the cost.”

His words made you feel safe but also confused. So far, you only dealt with the imagination of what it would be like to become Mrs. Choi, from the sudden wealth to the general public position. But you did not think about the possibility that anyone would try to harm you. Was San’s business really so threatening that people would go to the lengths of trying to kill… you?

For a moment, you recalled something you had stumbled over. Officially, the previous Miss Choi was said to have died of sudden illness but there was a story of how she was killed to get to her husband and shortly after her death, San's father indeed withdrew from the business. You decided this was not the time and place to ask such personal questions.

The food smelled delicious and under other circumstances, this would have been like heaven but the topic was too heavy to find your appetite.

“So let’s say I agree. I move in with you and we choose a guard that maybe could be more low-key. You’d still let me spend time with my friends and go to work every day?”

It was hard to tell if San forced himself to eat just to keep himself busy or if he tried to give you a feeling of normality while you discussed the rest of your life. Everything was so sudden, from believing you would likely never find your soulmate to facing the truth that now you did, your life would drastically change.

Unlike San, you weren’t ready just to act like you had been together for ages.

Right?

He was handsome, there was no doubt. It made you wonder what he would look like in the morning, without products in his hair, all sleepy, and just loose clothes clinging to his muscular body.

Ugh, you should not have looked at all those photos last night. It had been easy to ignore it when it was just some interview you prepared for, but to imagine now that the same guy intended to marry and spend the rest of his life with you was a very different story.

Suddenly, you wanted to see him smile. If you thought about it, you didn’t see him smile a single time. There had been an amused chuckle but that had been it. Maybe that was it? You needed to see him just being himself, without the worries and facade of the CEO of a construction empire.

You placed the fork down and stood up, taking a big gulp from the wine before you moved over. He watched you with interest which quickly turned into confusion when suddenly, you dropped down onto his lap.

“What are you doing?” he tilted his head like a curious cat and suddenly, you thought maybe it had been telling that he did remind you of your cat. Pets knew best.

“You know, you look like my cat. You even share a name, well partly anyway.” Your arms curled around his neck and you saw him blink in confusion, cheeks taking a deeper red.

“Like your cat?”

“Mhm, she’s the cutest. Also my soulmate, you will have to share but I feel, you might win her over. You just have to meow at her.”

San was trying to figure out if you were serious, yet his arms had curled around your figure to ensure you would be safe and not fall off him.

You chuckled and gave his cheek a gentle poke: “I am joking but I believe, you will be okay.”

There was a sigh but finally, a small smile. Something softer without that serious expression he carried all the time.

“You really are something, Y/N.”

San was holding still when your hands rested against his cheek, carefully brushing over his warm skin and you allowed yourself to admire him for a moment, giving him the chance to do the same.

There was a quiet longing to kiss, you really wanted to but the door to the room opened again and dessert was brought in.

The two of you looked a little shy, trying to ignore the curious glance of the waiter as you returned to your seat and finished eating. San asked you casual questions: why you decided to work for the newspaper, how it had been your desire in the first place, and where you would like to travel someday.

In return, he gave you small answers, while seemingly, for a man who portrayed such confidence around strangers, did not enjoy talking about himself.

“I will give you two a moment,” Wooyoung winked. “I will see you tomorrow, Miss Y/N. I think I have a good idea of who would be a perfect fit for you. In the morning, we will send a more… toned-down car to get you to work. I know this is a big change but please cooperate with us. I promise, we soon will find a more comfortable solution.”

You bowed: “Thank you, I appreciate your efforts! Oh and, just call me by my name. I’d prefer that.”

The head of security grinned and gave his boss a small glare. San suddenly seemed a little shy as he walked you to your door.

“I will have to deal with my business partners but I should be free the day after tomorrow. Maybe we can go out… somewhere more… to your taste. You have my number, text me any time and call if you wish… I’d like that.”

You nodded again, thinking how it was cute.

“Mh, I will come up with something fun! Get some sleep, yeah? You look tired.”

For a moment, you leaned in to press a kiss on his cheek but when he was so close, looking fondly at you, something inside of you finally gave in.

Instead, your arms curled around his neck once more and this time, it was a real kiss. San was almost tense but slowly, returned it with the same curiosity. A soft gasp left your lips when they parted.

“Goodnight,” you whispered, smiling.

As you unlocked the door and stepped in, he finally gave you another smile.

“Sleep well,” he bowed and turned around. You watched him take down the stairs, looking around before getting inside of the car and after a moment, they were gone.

“I had the wildest day!” you called out but your beloved pet was nowhere to be seen.

“Oh, c’mon! You can’t be pouty, your dinner comes automatically out of this overpriced machine I bought.”

You mumbled and changed into another pair of clothes when suddenly, there was a knock on the door.

When you opened it, you made a mental note to remind yourself not to do it so recklessly considering you were about to get a bodyguard, something that still sounded insane.

You blinked, surprised to see Jongho standing there together with two police officers.

Shit, you totally forgot about that.

“You really are the best friend ever,” you mumbled as Jongho frowned and you bowed, apologizing for the misunderstanding.

You explained to Jongho what happened, and as always, he proved not only to be the best friend but also the wisest. It made sense not to go into details about just who your soulmate was towards others, and he even sighed, agreeing that he could see why San was worried about your safety.

At work, there were whispers about how you finally found somebody. Some couldn't mind their own manners, making jokes about how it must be quite a disappointment if you refused to show them a photo, unlike everyone else who just met the person belonging to their soul. Mingi was a little pouty about being refused details as well, but you promised all of them you would explain it soon enough. It felt more difficult to hide it from your parents, who seemed to have given up on their child’s love life.

Wooyoung kept his promise and found somebody that really suited your personality: Seonghwa was considerably new in the business, and he didn’t look like a security guard, but maybe that was why he was perfect. You grew fond of him quickly; he was sweet and funny, taking your worries sincerely and seemingly enjoying his ‘undercover job’ at the newspaper as an editor.

You were surprised when he dropped you off at the zoo, handed you a ticket, and told you to go to the lions. The small wink indicated this was another one of San’s sudden dates. There had been a few in the past two weeks, but most of them were too short. A small dinner here, a trip to the museum after closing hours there. He always was in a rush because of his business, and the two of you started to struggle with the separation. At least, you quite felt so when he hugged you for a moment longer than intended you stared until his car wasn't to be seen anymore.

It was odd just how fast you adapted to him, how much you yearned to be close, but you remained stubborn. For some reason, you read that ten dates make a good number before anything should be serious, and while it wasn’t like you weren’t made for each other, you just wanted to do something like everyone else before you moved into his penthouse and lived the rest of your life under the public’s watchful eyes.

San looked different today, quite so. He wore a pair of jeans, sneakers, and a loose shirt, his hair falling in soft waves around his features. Ever since you told him how you’d like to see it like that, he put effort into keeping it natural around you.

He was pretty as he stood there, waiting for you, looking at the giant cats.

Everything seemed perfect, but there was this glooming feeling in your stomach how it just went too smoothly. Just a few weeks ago, you had a low opinion of this man, and now you were here, like a lovesick puppy, waiting for him to notice you.

Was it the magic of the soulmate bond that changed it? Did you start to see what else there was besides the harsh businessman that still came through when he thought you weren’t there yet, or were you simply prejudiced before you learned who he would be in your life?

San turned around and your gazes met, his lips quickly turning into a smile. He walked over to you and reached for your hands, placing a kiss on them. So old-fashioned, but you liked it.

“I worried you wouldn’t come. You look lovely. The new haircut suits you well.” He was eager to compliment you and you exhaled, smiling.

“Well, that sounds more like a description meant for you. I almost didn’t recognize you,” you winked, and he glared a little, looking away for a moment.

“Well, so far our dates always have been off from the public… I guessed it would be nice to take you out like this, but people would recognize me too quickly. This way, I hope they will not.”

He took your hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Shall we walk a little? I was not sure what animals you might like.”

You liked how much thought he was putting into it, taking your wishes and preferences into consideration. You squeezed his hand back, smiling.

“I haven’t been here since I was twelve, so maybe we can just walk around without any specific destination?”

San nodded, and the two of you began your walk. If anyone had asked you, the zoo would not have been a place you’d have picked for a date, but it was quite enjoyable. Families, school classes, and other couples went by as you took the time to watch animals you knew and some that seemed to be a more recent addition.

After a while, you got tired and San told you to sit down, leaving you for a moment to get ice cream.

As you sat there and waited, you heard noises not too far away — angry shouts and a small crowd gathering. You were confused; this was not exactly a place where you would expect something like that to happen.

As you walked closer, you realized they had gathered around San, who was picking up his wallet, ice cream crashed on the floor.

“I can’t believe that somebody like him would dare to come to a place like this!” an elderly woman yelled, pointing at him.

“Do you intend to also take this away from our children? Maybe you want to build another one of your damned city towers here?!”

Some agreed, mainly older people; some teenagers were giggling, smartphones up to film it. San seemed awfully calm as he took out his own phone until somebody threw a full plastic bottle. Your soulmate managed to dodge it, but it led to the crack of his phone's display, and finally, you could see something within his cool broke.

“You stand here, whining and yelling. If you want some change, how about you start and do something yourself?” he asked, his voice lacking any emotion.

“How dare you?! My brother worked day and night to afford the little house, put his health and money into making something his children later could have, but then you decided you needed to tear it down to place apartments on top nobody can afford!”

San hissed, a hint of amusement on his lips.

“I did. Yet, all of them accepted money, and the majority received more than this old piece of land was even worth.”

The anger grew louder as they felt provoked by his words: “My sister showed me the letter! When she refused, the living circumstances became unbearable. Electricity kept disappearing, cut off from the phone and even water! We all have seen the reports on that one news channel not scared of you; people confessed they did it because they were paid to! Do you deny it?”

You exhaled because you remembered it. A year ago, it was in the news for some time, just on the smaller channels, shortly after the election, but like all news, it vanished. People were always quick to move on until something reminded them.

“I do not deny it,” San said: "I set the changes in motion you all blame me for and maybe, not all went the way it should have. But how instead of blaming those who barely only do their job, you look at yourself? Each and every building set up, the city council decided over and the city council is the one that hires my company. We design and establish it but we are not the owner. YOU all are the ones who voted for those who gave orders to chase your families away. So before you start so cowardly to act out of envy and hate, you should look at yourself, question what you did when you made your choice of who is on top of the city. It's on you."

It was the moment that your gazes met and he froze. You could see the pain and regret about his admission, but somehow you knew it wasn’t just because he openly admitted it, but because it led to people looking at you.

If it came to tearing others down, humans were quick. San was not wearing his usual gloves today and neither mark was covered.

“I can’t believe it, this monster really has found his soulmate?!” Now people were staring at you and you felt panic rising inside of you, trying to figure out if you should withdraw or move towards him.

“Isn’t that one of those newspaper bitches? She just wrote one of those praising articles about him!”

People drew closer to you, their hate and anger for San shifting to you, but finally, you felt an arm curling around you, harshly pulling you away.

“Why did you come here?! You should have waited on the bench!” San asked coldly as he started to protectively lean over you, trying to get away, but the crowd was following now.

More things flew towards the two of you, but he protected you from each. You remembered his sincere face during that first dinner together: how he told you that he’d never let any harm come to you.

“San… I am sorry!” you whispered, but his gaze was cold and he stared forward. It felt like an eternity when the now familiar collection of men dressed in suits and one with casual clothes rushed towards you.

“San, Y/N! Are you okay?!” Wooyoung was by your side as the other members of security began to take care of the mob.

“Take her and get her out of here,” San shoved you towards Seonghwa.

“Hold on, San!” You could see there was a small bruise on his forehead, but when you tried to reach him, Seonghwa was already pulling you away.

“Let’s get you out,” his voice was soft but his grip on your arm only relaxed when you showed no sign of resistance. All you could do was watch how the people yelled and San vanished behind Wooyoung.

It was one thing to write a silly line for an article calling a man “the villain of the general citizen” and another to experience it.

“Staying with your family tonight will be best,” Seonghwa replied, trying to get you to talk, but all you did was stare out of the window, even when you parked in front of the house you grew up in. Your personal security refused to talk about what just happened, and San was not answering his phone.

“I will check on your cat, and tomorrow, we will sit down together and decide on the next steps,” Seonghwa continued. When you still weren’t moving, his hand reached out to take yours, and you finally turned around.

“It will be alright. Spend some time with your loved ones, and we’ll figure it out slowly.”

You didn’t feel like that, but there wasn’t much else you could do, and you didn’t want to add to the stress Seonghwa likely had because he wasn’t there with you when it happened, putting you both at risk. So you simply nodded.

“Thanks for driving me,” you mumbled, getting out of the car and pulling your bag up a little. It was obvious how the events were hard on you, it was so unlike you not to even wave goodbye to a friend. You didn’t even use the bell, pulling out the key from the secret spot to unlock the door.

In your mind, you longed for a hug from your mom, who would ask you what happened and then just curse people for being stupid, the same way she did when you got rejected from the newspapers of your dreams because they didn’t like your writing style.

The scene that awaited you was very different, though. Your mother was sitting on the couch, her eyes puffy from crying. To your surprise, your grandparents and father were also there. Seonghwa had given them a call to let them know you were coming, but he left out that something had happened, so this was odd.

“What are you all doing here?” you tried to sound casual, a small smile on your lips, but your mother looked at you like she had just been told her child was a criminal.

“Y/N,” your father started, his voice so serious that you froze in the doorway. Then finally, your gaze went to the news channel running on the TV.

It showed a TikTok video of the scenes from the zoo, and you slowly understood what was going on.

“You saw that… Ah, I guess I have to explain a few things,” you began, but were promptly interrupted.

“You have to step in front of the press and announce that it was a moment of shock. Tell them how it shatters your heart to have learned your soulmate is a cruel man and that you will not support him, his company, or his doings.”

Now, you were staring at your father: “What?”

“Your uncle, he was one of those people who had to sell their homes to this company so they could put that ugly tower on top of it!” your grandfather said angrily.

“My love, these people cannot be stopped; their money is endless, but you have been given a voice and power. As a journalist and member of society, if you officially reject him, his own soulmate, his reputation is done. The most precious bond in the world — it will move even those who wish to ignore the truth about how the rich simply do whatever they want with all of us..”

For years, your parents had been supportive when you did not find your soulmate and told you not to worry, but as you grew older, you could see the embarrassment. Eventually, you all simply stopped talking about it.

While you did not expect them to celebrate the one fate chose for you, this certainly wasn’t what you thought you’d find.

“What happened to my uncle is awful, but you cannot seriously ask me to go in front of the press and tell them I reject my soulmate.”

Your mother started to cry again, and the entire scene felt bizarre.

“You are supporting this man’s schemes? What happened to my child who wanted to tell stories of truth?” Your father stared at you.

“You are asking me to simply give up all chances of love and happiness before I even talked to him about any of this.”

“It’s the only thing to do,” he said, and you bit your lip.

“Or what?”

The silence in the room was an answer of its own. You never thought that finding your soulmate would mean that the world decided to hate you just because of something you had no choice over — the world chose him for you. But this moment was a choice you were given.

“As a journalist, here’s some advice: every story has several perspectives. Listen to them before you simply throw everything away based on one."

You said, somehow managing to regain your composure. As you walked out and closed the door, you suddenly wished your only problem was the one where your boss only gave you stories nobody cared for. You were so immature for once thinking how cruel the world was just because of such a silly matter.

You didn’t know where to go other than home. Maybe looking so miserable, and with a hoodie now on your body, people just didn’t recognize you. Still, there was this creeping paranoid feeling. In your mind, everyone on the train around you surely was looking at that doomed video, but maybe it was for the better. Thinking about that meant no time to deal with reality. Losing family and what felt like freedom in a single day was tough.

God, you wanted to crawl inside your bed and cry. When was the last time you felt this way? Never, because you had always been selfishly spoiled. As much as you whined about your job, being on your own for so long, or not getting invitations to weddings you didn’t even want to go to, there had always been people to support and love you.

No doubt, your friends still would. Jongho had already called several times, but you felt it would be unfair to pull him into this until you spoke with San.

What were you meant to say?

The closer you walked to your apartment complex, the more you considered your own words. You told your father how you needed to speak with San about it, but what exactly?

You had known the entire time what man he was. When the reports came out, you did not care. When you were preparing for the interview, you only worried he could ruin your career by being displeased, about how he was an asshole with too much money. But not once did you really think if he was a cruel person because he did the things he did. You simply blindly took up the opinions of others because, in that moment, it felt more beneficial to deal with your dumb complaints.

It was worse because as much as a part of your mind wanted to agree with your parents, it just would not work.

Maybe you had always been a villain, together with all the other people closing their eyes from the truth they knew, but you couldn’t deny that San had been right.

The rich were rich because too often, we gave them our money and we voted for people who made promises we all knew they’d never keep but we were desperate to believe.

When you unlocked the door, you called out for your cat, and this once, she walked by quietly, rubbing her head against yours.

“Mh, my one and only. I am sorry, I have been so absent lately,” you kissed her, but before you knew it, she slipped away, walking to the kitchen.

“It’s not dinner time yet, Sannie.”

“Did you eat anything today yet?”

San’s voice tore you out of your trance and you stared at him. How did he get in here?

He was sitting at the table, looking as he did the first day you met, suit and coat, but he was looking down at the mark on his hand.

“What are you doing here?”

“Seonghwa stayed close to your parents' house. He told me that you left, he followed you quietly. Do not blame him, he acted on my order. He will continue doing so.”

Why was his voice so firm?

You tried to find words but he already continued, placing an envelope on the table.

“You being here, I take it your family was not too pleased with fate. Thus, I have prepared everything further for you.”

“What are you talking about?”

Why wasn’t he even looking at you? As no answers came, you stepped over to the table, taking it, shaking as you opened the envelope.

Inside was a file: a one-way ticket to New York, photos of an apartment that looked lovely, and a job advertisement for a position at a New York newspaper.

“A friend of mine is the publisher, I did not pay him for it. He read some of your articles and they are looking for somebody to write about local events. Your style is something new and refreshing. It starts low but you can work yourself up. The VISA is already completed and I will fully cover all of your expenses. Nobody there will care what happened here. You can move abroad for as long as you wish, it will add beneficially to your portfolio and support your wishes to write about the things you want to in the future. I will pay for this one too, so you can return in a year if you prefer. Of course, your pet is going with you, together with Seonghwa who will keep an eye on you... just in case.”

When he suddenly stood up, you dropped it.

“You are sending me away?”

“It’s the safest for you to move abroad. For the time being, consider it an investment in your future, and by the time you return here, you will be able to comfortably start anew. Nobody will care about a TikTok by then. My lawyers are already working to take down every dirty post about you.”

Suddenly, you were terrified, your mark aching like you were burying it in thorns. Then you understood. Marks changed sometimes. There were thorns around your moon because something heavy surrounded the two of you.

“Where are you in all of this?” your voice was a whisper and he looked down before turning around to head towards the door.

“There have been many people who lost their soulmate in a way. Many of them found love, actually quite a few did, because once they no longer felt like they had to wait, they could fully embrace it. There is no reason why you should live your life in fear, tied down by a cruel soulmate.”

He was pushing you away. You knew it because as well prepared as every step was, San did not manage to look you in the eyes. Was it because he couldn’t hide his pain or because he knew he was breaking your heart?

Why did something you never asked for hurt so much? Why was the thought of being separated harder than the fear for your life? What fucked up mood were the gods in on the day they decided soulmates would be a great idea?

“Is it because of your mother? Are you scared somebody could try and do something?”

San winced, it seemed you were right. As you tried to step closer, he pulled away.

“San, listen!”

He hissed: “If you know, then you will go! It is not like you wanted to be with me to begin with, Y/N. Just go and live your life!”

Oh yes, you easily could see behind that. He was trying to chase you away with pain.

“What about your life, huh? You just continue like that on your own?”

“I’m not going to risk your life. Just go, we both can move beyond this.” His voice was like a clap of thunder but there they were, when you finally grabbed his arm and forced him to face you properly, the tears at the edge of his eyes.

You really were selfish. When you wanted to find your soulmate just because it was how life was supposed to go, mostly longing for it in silly little moments when you were upset, San had waited desperately because he had created himself to be a villain, one who never could be sure if his friends were real or if those he cared for were at risk like his parent.

He waited for the person who would love and take him just the way he was, no matter title or money.

“San,” you said softer, shaking your head. “I am not going anywhere. I don’t give a fuck what you think or say, that’s not how this goes. Our bond will not just disappear because I move across the ocean, nor will we stop longing for each other. Why would I try and find somebody else if I have my soulmate here?”

As you rested your hand against his cheek, brushing away his tears, it seemed as if he was trying to find anything in your features: hatred, rejection, regret. He knew that you were right but he also had sworn to protect you, even if it meant breaking his own heart.

“If you stay with me, now that this has occurred, there’s no way just to go back to your life… And you understand that I am who I am, I did things and I cannot go back … where I am now, the person I became, the kind of life people like I lead…” he finally said.

It was as if he needed one last push, a final confirmation you really understood what it meant.

“Urgh, disgusting being so sappy but yeah. Fate chose my soulmate but I decide to stay with you.”

Lips crushed against yours and you lost balance but San was there to pick you up, holding you in a tight embrace. You gasped, your body shivered.

As you forced your eyes open, you could see a glimpse of possession in his eyes, mixed with love. It made a strange combination but you couldn’t deny how much you enjoyed it.

Somebody who chose you because they wanted to, not only because of a mark. And unlike the world, San never asked you to change, to do something you did not want to. How strange that the so-called “good people” did just that without even giving you a chance to speak.

San picked you up and placed you on top of the table as he started to shrug off his coat, dropping it carelessly on the floor followed by his tie. His lips met yours once more, trailing down your neck.

“Stay,” he whispered in your ear, his soft fingertips brushing over your sides.

“I will,” you promised, baring your neck when you felt San leaving a mark, taking soft skin between his lips, sucking and biting.

Your breaths adjusted, hearts slowly beating in a matching rhythm.

“I love you,” he finally said and you felt your heart swell in an emotion you failed to find a word for, even as a writer.

San moved back, your faces close to one another now as your hands rested against his cheeks.

“I love you too,” you whispered and for the first time, he really, truly smiled.

Just for you.

The kiss he placed on your forehead was most gentle and you sighed in relief.

“Let’s go home,” you finally said because you were ready but San grinned at you.

“Soon, I will take you home and never let you go but first, I will make sure you know just how much I crave and adore you.”

San picked you up onto his arms like you were a feather and slowly headed over to the room he knew was your bedroom.

And while he walked, his gaze never left yours and you comfortably allowed yourself to fall into the excitement, to leave behind the past few hours and maybe even years as the door closed shut behind the two of you.

The end of the first chapter of your life.

It was stupid, reckless, and a little insane, but it seemed that was just how your villain-turned-protagonist life had turned out to be.

He had never loved his home as much as he did the moment you walked in, spending ten minutes talking to your cat, who seemed a little displeased about being dragged out of her territory.

San kept his distance as you walked through his penthouse, seemingly amazed by how it wasn’t what you had expected: the colors were warm, the furniture was a mixture of brown and marine blune, and plants in many corners trying to add warmth that had been missing for so long. Personal belongings were scattered around to show that when the doors closed, as rare as it was, a simple person lived there.

“My rooms are all on this side of the penthouse. If you take the floor down, there used to be a guest room and a second office. I already emptied it for you, so we can bring your furniture here, and you can make yourself at home. The bathroom attached to it has a stunning view.”

He talked, but now you were staring at him. Returning after your first night together, San looked a little messy, his hair no longer fixed, and he had changed into a black long-sleeve. The way your gaze pierced him made him shiver again.

San did not withdraw when you curled your arms around him. If anything, his heartbeat increased, and he did the same.

“I’ll take up the offer for the office, but I think we won’t need a second bedroom. Maybe we can turn it into one for the cat instead.”

You leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his lips before stepping back, taking his hand.

Ah, this was new — you managed to get all those emotions out of him.

San was smiling, pure happiness that you wished to be with him. The bond was no longer rejected, and the decision was made to stand against all odds, even the world if necessary. Yet, right now, he did not want to care about any of this. The world was going nowhere, and he had someone to cherish and love.

As he led you to his bedroom, there was no reason to bother moving pillows or blankets because it was comfort the two of you were seeking after this terrible day. San curled his arms tightly around you, allowing your head to rest against his chest as his hand gently brushed over your arm. The two of you looked at the view outside, the night long having swallowed the last bits of sun.

There were many things you’d need to talk about, but they all could wait.

San finally accepted that his soulmate was nothing like his mother, who had always been soft and reserved. No, you were noisy and stubborn, just like he was. And no matter what happened, you’d manage to get through it together.

San closed his eyes, gently rubbing his face against your hair and placing a few kisses on it.

He’d never let you go again, and as he thought about it, he could feel your embrace tighten around him too, just like you agreed in silence to always be together.

A few months later ...

"I can't believe they sent us all the way to Paris to report about the living conditions of the Olympian athletes," you sighed deeply, but Jongho just flashed you a grin.

"I thought the story with the cardboard beds was quite amusing. I already have a great intro for the draft of our report."

You chuckled: "I'm looking forward to that."

A handsome man appeared, and a few passengers stopped to give him a glance. He looked stunning in just suit pants and matching shoes, paired with a slightly opened button-up shirt, offering just a little cleavage, his hair free to play with the wind and a pair of matching sunglasses.

As he made it to you, his arms curled around your waist and pulled you into a kiss.

"Ewh, this is my call to go," Jongho joked, waving. "I'll see you tomorrow. Don't try and steal any jewels."

Your best friend walked off, and you just looked after him.

"That sounds like a fun idea," San teased with a lazy grin, "but I've got some other plans for us."

You tilted your head slightly.

"Is that so? Did you lock down that giant metal tower everyone's into just for us?"

You never really got the whole hype around it, and Paris had been a little disappointing with most parts being locked for the event.

"Mh, something like that. Let's say other visitors will be a little jealous we get a certain place just for us — no annoying heads in the way as we take photos."

"That sounds very interesting, Mister Choi. Quite an evil act, being a VIP tourist."

He stepped back and took your hand, squeezing it gently: "What can I do? I'm a villain by nature."

"One that looks awfully soft right now," you smiled, stealing his sunglasses and placing them on your own nose.

"Love hits even the bad guys really hard."

You both chuckled, it seemed turning sappy also was part of a soulmate's fate.

His thumb brushed gently over your soul mark: it was a full moon now, adorned by stars. Never meant to be alone again, shining together.

closing note: if you have read until here, thank you so much. i tried to capture the idea of how the public affects the view of a person and the question of what you'd choose if forced to. mc is okay to pick his side, not only because it seemed everyone already judged mc anyway but also because deep down, mc always knew who san was and admitted to not caring until other people demanded it. i apologize if the start was a little too long but i hope it was still somewhat of an enjoyable read 🫶 thoughts and feedback is always appreciated.

[ateez-himari]

VERSACE; MILAN RECAP

Himari finally spreading her creative wings at the Milan Fashion Week.

September 22, 2024 (11:14PM)

House Versace's Ephemeral collection marked the entrance of global ambassador, Min Himari, into the high fashion world with designs seeking to replicate the refined yet unfortunately temporary beauty of butterflies through flowing colorful fabrics and loose hanging jewelry. This rather impressive debut resulted in several designers speaking out about the artistry behind every showcased piece, one of them being Balmain creative director Olivier Rousteing, and some brands have even set their sights on the young idol as a possible representative.

Fashion Week hosts the most watched showcases of the year which is why audiences were shocked that Ephemeral was premiered alongside the spring - summer collection, as it would undoubtedly occupy the spotlight due to its rather unique nature. During the last model fittings for this runway, Donatella Versace expressed wanting the project's success to reflect the unbelievable amount of work that had gone into its creation, hence letting her protégée close off the night in order to truly leave lasting impressions on attendees.

'The Hand of Midas is an accurate title for her, these designs went from mere sketches on a page to museum worthy pieces.' She said. 'The world should witness these ephemeral wonders before they sadly disappear.'

The artistic director kept the afterparty outfit secret even from the idol herself and those staying on track with updates were far from disappointed when she stepped out of the car wearing a custom made short butterfly dress. Royalty had long been associated with this young ace and some photographers even expressed feeling a sense of admiration when catching their first glance of her walking onto the carpet, bejeweled hand supported by Versace Prince, Hwang Hyunjin, to regain balance;

Photography Credits; @/versace on Instagram

The ambassador's bandmates, Song Mingi and Choi San - who was in the city for the Dolce & Gabbana show-, received invitations to the event despite having no affiliation with the brand in order to not only witness this momentous occasion for their industry but to offer comfort to the nervous upcoming designer as well. With the rapper being in a romantic relationship with their youngest, it led to some sweet moments caught on camera;

When the show came to an end the rapper could be seen wrapping large arms on her body and spinning the two of them around before placing the most tender yet lasting kiss on her lips, some reporters on the scene managing to capture his endless whispered praises. A somewhat brief conversation ensued before the vocalist found refuge in his chain adorned neck with adorable squeals of excitement, attendees along with the house's designer herself stopped to admire their display of heartwarming affection.

'Himari had told me about their relationship, but I've never seen them together in person before.' Shared Donatella. 'To see two people so in love with each other is almost unbelievable...but I'm happy our Princess found her soulmate.'

The members who unfortunately could not attend conveyed respect and pride for their maknae through livestreams in which they made sure that fans were aware of just how much work went on behind the scenes, most ending their lengthy speeches with tears - showcasing the genuine love tying these idols together. While in the music industry the young woman is somewhat guided by the other artists' voices when creating tracks, this night proved to all that behind her delicate beauty was personal artistry extending far beyond unique harmonies.

Himari's Ephemeral Collection will be available for public viewing at the Nilufar Depot, Milan from October 1st to November 3rd and the Opera Gallery of Seoul from November 12th to December 21st. See the official Versace website or ATEEZ instagram account (@/ateez_official_) for more details on ticket availability.

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[shalomniscient]

f1au arlecchino in a need... f1au hoyoverse women as a whole honestly

oh, anonnie… i fear you have enabled me 👀👀👀 i will now proceed to spill my guts about f1au (with a little bit of modern au thrown in there to accomodate other characters) in a way nobody asked for 😌😌😌 (au details/lore utc)

>> SCUDERIA FATUI

An infamous yet historic team from Snezhnaya, known for its talented drivers and cutthroat strategies both and off on the track. Sponsored wholly by Zapolyarny Corporation and lead by Team Principal Pierro, Scuderia Fatui has produced many star drivers, most notably Arlecchino and Tartaglia. Arlecchino was trained within Fatui’s own F1 academy, the House of the Hearth. Tartaglia, on the other hand, is the youngest driver to ever debut in Teyvat F1. In spite of their success on the track, Fatui’s title sponsor Zapolyarny is known for some underhanded business practices, which many speculate and allege resulted in the resignation of Diluc Ragnvindr from Favonius Racing.

Other roles:

Chief Engineer Sandrone

Zapolyarny Founder the Tsaritsa

Zapolyarny CEO Pulcinella

Zapolyarny CFO Pantalone

Zapolyarny CTO Dottore

Zapolyarny CMO Rosalyne-Kruzchka Lohefalter

House of the Hearth Director Crucabena

Team strategist and former driver Capitano

Idol Columbina signed under Zapolyarny Records

>> Marechaussee Racing

A team from Fontaine known for its technological and engineering innovations. Title sponsored by Meropide Heavy Industries, Marechaussee is also backed by other brands and companies including the Spina di Rosula and Chioriya Boutique. Headed by Team Principal Neuvillette, Marechaussee Racing’s most successful drivers include Wriothesley, Navia and Clorinde.

Other roles:

Fashion designer Chiori

Steambird journalist Charlotte

>> Seven Stars Formula 1 Racing Team

A popular team from Liyue, especially known for its unique and unconventional strategies that nonetheless lead their drivers to victory. Like Scuderia Fatui, Seven Stars is backed entirely by a single corporation, the Qixing Corporation. Its team principal is also the CEO of Qixing Corp., Ningguang. Seven Stars is known for producing unique but fan favourite drivers with long careers, as seen with Beidou, Shenhe, Yelan and Xiao.

Other roles:

Qixing secretary Ganyu

Qixing CTO Keqing

Team strategist Zhongli

>> INAZUMA Racing

A very well-known and storied team with a long history in F1. INAZUMA Racing used to be the only team from Inazuma, however following an internal dispute, several members of INAZUMA Racing split off to form Watatsumi Formula 1 Racing Team. INAZUMA Racing is sponsored by the Kujou Corporation and Hiiragi & Co, as well as Yae Publishing House. Currently, the top positions within INAZUMA Racing are held by the Raiden clan; Raiden Makoto as Team Principal, Raiden Ei as Chief Engineer, and Raiden Shogun as the team’s premier first driver. The position of second driver is filled by Kujou Sara from the Kujou family, who also has a longstanding affiliation with the sport.

Other roles:

Yae Publishing House CEO and Chairwoman, Yae Miko

>> Watatsumi Formula 1 Racing Team

The youngest racing team on the roster, Watatsumi Formula 1 Racing is the underdog of Teyvat Formula 1. Despite having a tumultuous birth, Watatsumi, under the sharp guidance of team principal Sangonomiya Kokomi, has secured high-profile sponsors such as Kamisato Corp (KCorp). Drivers signed with Watatsumi include Arataki Itto, Kuki Shinobu, and Kaedehara Kazuha, who is well-known to be a former driver for Liyue’s Seven Stars Formula 1 Team.

Other roles:

Chief Engineer Yoimiya

Idol Kamisato Ayaka, signed under Kamisato ENT

CEO and Chairman of KCorp, Kamisato Ayato

>> Favonius Racing

A historic team hailing from Mondstadt, Favonius Racing has recently hit a rough patch. After the sudden resignation of one of its star drivers, Diluc Ragnvindr, Favonius Racing has been unable to secure Championship titles for a few years now. However, under the leadership of new Team Principal and former driver Jean Gunnhildr, as well as the technological advancements made by genius Chief Engineer Albedo, things may be looking up for Favonius Racing. Favonius Racing’s title sponsor is Dawn Winery. Its current lineup of drivers is the fan-favourite Kaeya Alberich, the mysterious Rosaria, and the up-and-coming driver Eula Lawrence.

Other roles:

Team strategist Lisa Minci

Assistant engineer and fuel scientist Sucrose

Idol Barbara signed under Barbatos Entertainment

>> Akademiya Formula 1 Racing Team

Another team known for its pioneering in F1 engineering, Akademiya Racing hails from Sumeru. Led by former driver turned team principal Al-Haitham and under the scrutinizing eye of Chief Engineer Kaveh, Akademiya Racing’s already impeccable history of machinery is only projected to get better. Alongside its excellent cars, Akademiya Racing is also known for producing the most resilient of drivers, which include Dehya, Candace and Cyno, as well as former INAZUMA Racing driver, Raiden Kunikuzushi.

Other roles:

Medical officer Tighnari

Idol Nilou

[shyvioletcat]

Oh hi! Yes, This is something a little new and different, especially for @sjmcrackshipmonth. For Pirate Day my wonderful friend @sassyhobbits​ and I came up with a little idea, she came up with this wonderful artwork and I wrote a fic and we had so much fun. So, without further rabbling here is my first official Aelin x Fenrys work. 

CW: it’s smutty, like really smutty. Secondhand embarrassment 

FIND THE ACCOMPANYING ARTWORK HERE.

~~~~~

People told Aelin she was mad for running a tavern in a pirate port, and at times she would have to admit that they were right. Brawls were common, there had been damage to the ceilings from more gunshots than she could count, when things truly got out of hand there was an occasional stabbing. Aelin had threatened carousers here and there herself down the barrel of the pistol she kept stowed away in a dark corner of the counter. But for all its trouble the White Stag thrived under her charge. She could never be idle and a tavern in a pirate port like this was a lucrative business. And it wasn’t like she was without protection. 

Rhoe Galathynius was the most prominent merchant in Orynth, which made him a veritable king amongst men. Coin was the power in these waters, and their city on the river thrived under his watchful eye and scheming. So the fancy, looping gold lettering of her family name under the wood carved sign of the rearing white stag hanging above her door let patrons know who they were dealing with. It was an assurance for both her and her customers that serious misdeeds would be met with severe punishment, and that kept people coming to her fine establishment night after night. 

Tonight was busy, patrons filling nearly every space they could. It was good for business but it was running Aelin off her feet. Usually she was content to watch from the landing above the main floor or slip through the crowd mingling, leaving the bartending to those she hired. But tonight with a barmaid ill that’s where Aelin found herself—pouring pint after pint, the pockets of her skirts full of coin. The gossip was that a few ships had docked over the past few days, bringing an influx of commerce and bodies to the city. Aelin hadn’t caught the names of the ships, but from the energy the city hummed they must have been successful with their seaborn endeavours. 

“Lass, two more!” A man weathered by wind and salt called to her. From the way he swayed he probably didn’t need another, let alone two, she would have to cut him off after this. 

Aelin grabbed two tankards from below the bar and filled them with beer from the keg behind her. By the second the flow was slowing, a sure sign she’d need to send Ren down to the cellar for another. His main job was to provide muscle when things got out of hand as pirates and their affiliates tended to do. It was just convenient for her that his muscles were useful for other things as well. When she had a moment to breathe she’d have to track him down.

“All clean,” Luca said, setting down a clean crate of tankards. “And more to wash I see, my hands will be shrivelled as prunes by the end of the night.”

“My apologies, but I’ll be sure to compensate you accordingly,” Aelin took a handful of her green overskirt and shook it enough that the coins in her pocket jingled. 

Luca’s eyes lit up as the crate of dirty tankards was set in front of him. “I’ll get these cleaned up right away.”

Aelin smiled then started unloading the clean drinkware that would be dirty again all too soon. She didn’t bother to make the arrangement look tidy, on a night like this no one would notice. Feeling sweat gather on her brow Aelin dotted it away with on her sleeve. It wasn’t a particularly hot night but with the amount of bodies in the tavern and how busy it was, her temperature wasn’t surprising. She was glad of the stray breezes that would brush over her shoulders, bare from the way her blouse draped off them. 

“Spare a drink for a poor, weary sailor?”

The question came from behind her, smooth and sensuous, the words were nothing but a tempting caress over her skin. Aelin knew that voice and knew its full intent, even though it had been missing from her tavern for months. As pleased as she was to hear it she made sure her smile was hidden away as she turned around slowly, a hand on her hip conveying her feigned displeasure at being interrupted. This is how they would start the game, and if he played along they would both win. 

“Fenrys Moonbeam, what brings your sorry arse into my tavern,” Aelin drawled.

Fenrys’ smile was pure taunt and flirtation. “The rum and the company of course.”

“So the rum takes precedence over the company then?” Aelin said, stepping up to be just a little closer.

“Ah, Princess,” Fenrys said, leaning his elbows on the counter that was still between them and not bothering to hide the appreciative sweep his eyes did over her. “You know what the truth of it is.”

Aelin couldn’t help it, she felt the corner of her lips tilt into a crooked smile. But she also wasn’t about to concede, “Do I, though? Nary a word all these long months, for all I knew you had found a more favourable port and run off with a prettier girl.”

“Prettier than you? I think I’d be hard pressed to find someone as lovely as you, Miss Galathynius,” Fenrys said.

“You’re flattering me for a free drink,” Aelin accused.

Fenrys tipped his head back and laughed. “Is it working?”

There was a thunk as the short glass hit wood, and then Aelin was pouring out a measure of her best rum. “Yes.”

Their fingers brushed as Fenrys took the glass and he downed it. While he was occupied Aelin took the opportunity to peruse over him. First she looked for any sign of injury, pirating had its many dangers but from what she could see there were no noticeable hurts. Fenrys looked good, he always did. His golden sunkissed curls were tied back from his face showing off the perpetual smile that seemed to grace his lips. The blue coat he wore was very dashing, with the cut of it accentuating the broadness of his shoulders. Ever the flaunter he’d chosen a white shirt that dipped low, the white of it contrasting the deep bronze of his skin made deeper from the hours he spent in the sun. He’d been gods’ blessed with handsomeness that could only be dreamed of, and an ego to match. Some found him insufferable, mainly those who lacked a sense of humour or any idea of fun. For Aelin, he was an utter delight. 

She was called away before they could continue their conversation, but Fenrys didn’t go anywhere. He lingered at the bar, claiming a stool when one became available. 

“The next one will cost you,” Aelin said, wiping down the counter so it looked like she had a reason to stop.

“Always such a hard businesswoman.” Fenrys didn’t protest and dropped two coins on the worn wood. 

Aelin slid them off into her and then her pocket. “What will it be?”

“That sweet Perranth wine if you have it,” Fenrys requested. 

“You’re in luck, my supplier just brought in a delivery yesterday,” Aelin wasted no time, because she didn’t have it, and poured Fenrys a tankard of wine. Glasses were for quiet gatherings, not an overcrowded tavern where it was likely to be knocked out of an unsuspecting hand and shattered on the floor. 

“My thanks,” Fenrys tipped his drink at her.

Aelin left him to his wine and tended to the never ending flow of patrons looking for food and drink. Fenrys just stayed sitting there and making sure to catch her eye whenever she passed by. There was no question as to why he was here. 

One evening a year or two ago Fenrys had come in with the crew of the Maeve. That night had been vastly different to this, with Fenrys and his crewmates nearly the only customers for the evening. That had allowed an easier night for Aelin with more than enough opportunity for conversation with the charismatic man—not with the others because they were a sullen and broody bunch—and eventual flirting. As the night wore on, she and Fenrys ended up on a low couch by the fire. Along with his staggering handsomeness, he was also highly entertaining. His ludicrous stories had Aelin’s sides hurting with laughter and he was kind enough to ply her with enough compliments to keep her by his side. And when it was just the two of them left basking in the fire’s warmth and Fenrys leaned in, she’d let him kiss her. Which led to Aelin guiding him up the stairs and to her room where they kept each other company in other ways. 

Since then, whenever he was in port Fenrys appeared in her tavern and they spent what time they could together until he was called away to the sea again. His captain was a hard bastard and didn’t see the point to lingering on land. The first mate wasn’t much better. Aelin had more than her fair share of run-ins with Rowan Whitethorn—none of them ending well. Their arguments had become legendary. She was more than sure that she hated him and that the feeling was mutual.

Fenrys couldn’t be more different than those men, vivacious and brash, he was more than enough a match for her when it came to wit. It was hard to find a flaw in the man. With so much in his favour, Aelin was still unsure whether or not she was in love with him. He was gone too often and for too long for any real emotion to take root. But at the very least they were friends, and they had fun. Without Fenrys her life would be far more dull and the unexpectedness of his arrival always gave their trysts a thrill. If he ever gave up seafaring maybe she could love him more than she did. There was a wildness to Fenrys that only the sea could soothe. Life on land just might bore him to death. 

Despite the lack of attention, Fenrys remained, his thumb running over a loose nail that was poking out of the wooden counter. Aelin made note to fix that, she didn’t need the complaints of an unobservant patron who hurt themselves or ripped their clothing. She had to commend Fenrys for his patience, a lesser man might have run off by now. 

“How has your day been, Miss Galathynius?” Fenrys asked when Aelin stopped near him to pour out a measure of rum for another customer.

“As you can see, I’m very busy tonight,” Aelin told him, watching his eyes shine as he sipped.

He didn’t look away as the tankard lowered. “I can wait.”

Aelin wanted to sigh in self pity, but she didn’t. “It’s going to be a long night.”

“You can bet on it,” Fenrys said, his words a sensual promise. 

Aelin passed off the tankard to the patron who gave her the money in exchange, when there was a call for more beer it reminded her of the impending problem. “Make yourself useful and I might think about it.”

Fenrys’ head titled, the beaded lock of his hair swaying. “How so?”

“I need another one of these,” Aelin said and slapped the keg behind her, “brought up from the cellar.”

Finishing off his wine far quicker than it deserved Fenrys got up from his stool. “It would be my pleasure.”

Aelin pulled out the ring of keys that she tucked into the wide belt around her waist and handed them over to the pirate. “Do not cause me more trouble than you're worth down there.”

“I wouldn’t dream of it,” Fenrys said with a wink, fingers grazing over the outside of her palm and up her fingers. Despite the heat of the room and the busy fluster Aelin had worked herself into she shivered. That was the first time they had touched and that soft caress had her craving more. 

She didn’t have long to dwell on that as she was summoned again and was more than occupied while Fenrys was gone. Drinks were poured one after the other, bowls of Emrys’ chowder went out from the kitchens, the way this was going Aelin wouldn’t be done until the sun came up. Gods knew if Fenrys would be around that long. Aelin groaned, cursing her bad luck. The one night Fenrys would be assuredly in Orynth she would be run off her feet and too busy and too tired to enjoy his company. 

Before too long the Fenrys was back, keg on his shoulder to keep it out of the way of the patron’s heads—very considerate. He stepped behind the counter, easing the fresh beer onto the empty stand and expertly fixed the tap. With his job done Fenrys grabbed himself a tankard and helped himself to the first serving. Aelin didn’t bother to stop him, she just gave him a crooked smile and a playful roll of her eyes. He stayed where he was, even though he shouldn’t. Aelin ignored his antics and grabbed two tankards for her own uses. As she leaned over to fill them with beer a broad hand rested on the small of her back, deft fingers tucking her keys back into her belt. With two tankards full, Aelin straightened, one in each hand, and found her path blocked. 

“Out of my way, please,” she huffed and then blew at a loose strand of hair. She had tied a scarf around her head in an effort to keep her hair out of her face. The flustering conditions and the humidity weren’t helping the intent. 

“Where are you going?” Fenrys asked, standing a little taller but not leaving for where he should be as a paying customer. 

Aelin took advantage of the space she could, easing through the small gap Fenrys left between his body and the counter, careful not to spill the beer. “To those people in the corner, I promised I’d bring it over once you had done your job.”

She thought she was free and clear when troublesome hands on her hips stopped her progress. “Do I get a thank you for that?”

The annoyed smirk that lacked the needed irritation was already on her face when she looked up at him. Fenrys was a good head taller than her, his face was full of mirth and all but begging for a kiss as he looked down at her. But Aelin wasn’t ready to give into him just yet. 

“Have you bathed since making port, or was the allure of my company too compelling?” She knew the answer, she had noticed the lack of braids he wore while at sea, and she was sure his hair was wet when he first walked in. 

That smile fell, an affronted look filled his face. “I’m offended that you would assume that, Aelin.”

“I’m offended that I wasn’t worth skipping a bath over,” Aelin told him. 

That was enough of a distraction and when Fenrys laughed Aelin took her chance and stepped out of his hold. Over the commotion of the tavern she swore she could still hear his amusement chasing her through the crowd. Aelin set the foaming tankards down and accepted the generous contribution to the establishment in return. Her pocket was starting to get severely weighed down, she might have to duck up to her rooms to empty it into her coffer. 

Her return to her task as barmaid was slower than anticipated, many patrons stopping her for greetings and snippets of gossip. Aelin liked to know what was going on in her city so she listened to all of it, tucking away bits of information that might be useful to herself or her father. Rumours were buzzing that the Maeve had been quite successful on its latest voyage and promised more profit. A hoard of treasure maps was cited as the reason. She might have to ask Fenrys about it. 

Eventually Aelin made it back to her post and was surprised to see a small woman with dark hair seated next to Fenrys. They chatted, and the woman laughed at something he said, even touching his forearm that rested on the bar. If Aelin didn’t recognise the woman she might have been jealous. The golden, smiling man was not the company her friend preferred to seek out.

“Elide, hello,” Aelin said, resting her elbow on the other woman’s shoulder. 

Elide was dressed in a simple lavender gown, nothing gaudy or to draw attention. She preferred an inconspicuous life where she was the one who made the rules. Her family winery in Perranth was her’s once her parents decided to retire. In the meantime she set about proving just how capable she was.

“I was just chatting to Elide about her wonderful wine,” Fenrys said. “Amongst other things.”

Aelin raised an eyebrow. “Oh?”

“There was a request for a barrel to be sent to the Maeve and I had the unfortunate pleasure of meeting the captain who was the only one left on the ship,” Elide explained. “Such a sullen bastard. I could barely get three words out of him before he disappeared back into his cabin. Luckily before he did he threw some coins at some boys on the dock and they carried it up the gangway.”

“I don’t know why you don’t find yourself a new captain,” Aelin directed at Fenrys.

The man just shrugged. “He’s good at what he does and I get the benefits. It’s not like I have to talk to him. I leave all that up to Whitethorn.”

“Whitethorn? Isn’t he the one who you threw a glass at that one time?” Elide asked.

Aelin huffed, the sound full of aggravation, and then went back to being behind the counter. “The very same.”

One evening for some reason beyond her, Rowan Whitethorn had graced her tavern with his insufferable presence. Nothing had been to his standards, not the beer, not the music and he had been very vocal about it. Aelin had told him to go elsewhere if the current surroundings were so offensive, he ignored her and chose to stay. When he claimed the beer was cheap and tasted like shit she had lost her temper. She had picked up a nearly empty glass of wine and threw it at him which he had effortlessly dodged, something akin to shock on his face as he watched the red liquid drip down the wall. Her demanding he pay for the damages had been the final straw and with a scowl on his sharp and handsome face he left her tavern. Aelin counted that as a win for her.

“The glass was chipped anyway, it was no loss to me.”

Fenrys looked like he was trying to keep his laughter in and like he was about to say something he’d surely regret. 

“Don’t,” Aelin said, pointing a finger at him. “You’ll not say a word if you know what’s good for you.”

Yielding to her request, Fenrys held up his hands, the gold rings on his fingers glinting in the low light. “Understood, Princess. Now if you fine ladies will excuse me.”

He was gone moments later, disappearing into the crowd, but Aelin had no doubt that he would return. Fenrys was far too eager for her company to be dissuaded so easily. There was a call further down the counter for more beer and Aelin saw to that before coming back to her friend who hadn’t left. 

“Can I get you anything? On the house of course,” Aelin offered. 

Elide gave her a knowing look, her eyebrows raised like she could have been questioning Aelin’s sanity. “What are you doing?”

Aelin felt her own brows narrow in confusion. “Working, as you can see.”

“Aelin, my dearest, most lovely friend,” Elide said leaning forward on the counter. “You have a man here, who is desperate for your company and is more than willing to give you a long night of pleasure, and you’re passing out beers instead?”

“I don’t exactly have a choice here,” Aelin said. “Essar is ill, and you can see how busy we are. I’m not exactly the shrewd business woman I claim to be if I ignore it to take Fenrys to my bed.”

As a timely reminder yet another patron asked for a pour of wine and rum, Aelin saw to it as quickly as she could. Luck was not on her side this evening, at this rate she’d be too tired to do anything once she fell into bed. 

“I won’t say that you won’t owe me for this,” Elide said, standing up from her stool, “because you will.”

“What are you…”

With quick fingers Elide braided her hair back, securing the end with a dark piece of ribbon. “Show me where everything is.”

It took Aelin a moment to catch on, her face going slack before she grinned. She showed Elide where everything she might need was, going over it twice more for her own peace of mind than her friend requiring more clarification. Aelin also made sure to inform the other’s working tonight so there wasn’t any confusion as to why Elide was behind the counter. 

“Keep the tankard tilted, helps limit the foam and unhappy customers,” Aelin explained and the amber liquid rose higher as she gave a hands-on demonstration. “And I think that’s all you need to know.”

“I think I’ve got it,” Elide said. 

“And if you have any trouble, call for Ren. He’ll sort it out,” Aelin added.

“Aye, captain.” Elide flourished that comment with a salute. 

“What’s going on here?” Fenrys’ voice cut through the conversation.

“I need to deposit some of tonight’s earnings in my room,” Aelin said, sauntering around to the other side of the counter, a hand raising to even out the collar of Fenrys’ jacket. “Care to join me?”

His dark eyes flashed as he easily read the implications of her invitation. “Lead the way.”

Aelin took his hand, leading him through the crowd to the staircase in the corner. The crowd took up the shanty that was being played. When they passed the small gathering dancing in front of the musicians Fenrys spun her and moved with the music, but still kept them heading towards their destination. Reaching the wooden stairs, Aelin gathered her skirts in her free hand to prevent herself from tripping as they hurried up the steps. On the landing they went left, the right led to a halfway with a handful of rooms she let out. Her private ones were larger and more secluded, the balcony on the outside offering beautiful views of the river port. That door painted a rich green was the last obstacle between her and what she wanted. And in just a few more steps she would be there.

Fenrys was a heavy and welcome presence behind her as she worked on unlocking the door. His hands were on her waist, his lips on the bare skin of her shoulder, it was enough of a distraction that Aelin was struggling to secure the key in the lock. That was only made worse when those godsdamned hands slipped higher, pressing over her bodice until they cupped her breasts. That had Aelin arching onto him, and in return that had Fenrys squeezing before his hands travelled downwards again—fingers catching on the neckline of her blouse. She was desperate to feel those hands on her with nothing to hinder them. 

“Fen,” Aelin whispered harshly. He just hummed his response onto her skin. “I would very much like to open the door so that we can continue this more privately.”

“My apologies,” he said, low enough that it had her skin pebbling. 

Other than that he let her be, halting his distracting journey over her body. It was a disappointing loss but the sooner Aelin got the door open, the sooner they could start again. 

Blocking out everything except the lock and key was the only way that Aelin managed to get the door open. She stepped into the dimly lit space, a single lamp barely glowing on a small table where she dropped her keys. There was a couch and an armchair set in front of a cold fireplace and there was another door that led to a private bathroom. The place could have been tidier, but Aelin hadn’t exactly been expecting guests. Fenrys closing the door redirected her attention, and he all but stalked towards her. To tease and make the trek that much easier, Aelin backed up towards her bedroom. She was caught just as they got to the entrance of it, Fenrys catching her by the waist and cupping her face. The moan at that first press of his lips was undeniable. 

For a while that’s all they did, just kiss in the dim light under the doorway. When Fenrys’ thumb dragged down the length of her neck, Aelin got impatient. She angled them so that they entered her room with tangled steps towards her bed. Her hands weren’t idle, searching out what bare skin they could. When there wasn’t much on offer Aelin slid one hand down the centre of his chest, all the way down to palm him through his trousers. Fenrys stumbled forward with enough strength to force Aelin back a couple of steps.

“Still have your sea legs?” Aelin teased through her laughter.

Huffing his own laugh, Fenrys pulled her closer so their noses brushed. “Maybe I’ll be steadier on my knees then.”

Before Aelin could even comment his lips were back on her’s, while his focus shifted to removing her clothes. The belt around her waist was the first to go, then his deft fingers had the laces and buttons of her forest green outer skirt undone and it was dropping over her hips. There was a jingling thud as the coins hit the floor, probably scattering, but that was a problem for later. Fenrys' progress was stalled when he discovered that the laces of her undershirt were hidden beneath her bodice. His groan of frustration was comical, and Aelin would have laughed if it weren’t for the way Fenrys’ hands were playing along the tops of her exposed breasts as his mouth lowered to her neck. 

Her body was tugged forward as the laces of her bodice were pulled at. Fenrys struggled, getting clumsier the more desperate he became, and even now Aelin’s patience was running thin. She needed him, now. It seemed Fenrys felt the same because one moment her floral embroidered bodice was tight against her body and the next it was falling away. Confused by the sudden development Aelin looked down to see the metallic glint of a knife and the ribbons in pieces. 

“You ruined my laces,” Aelin gasped, shoving the brute back half a step. “You bastard.”

Fenrys just smirked down at her, reaching out to slip the strap of the bodice off one shoulder, “I’ll buy you more,” then he did the same with the other. “The prettiest ribbons you can find.”

Aelin let the useless piece of clothing fall off her arms, Fenrys watching her every movement. She gave him a look that said don’t touch as she saw to the underskirt herself, her untucked blouse falling to the very top of her things. Fenrys’ gaze swept over her from head to toe, once and then twice, his eyes catching on the loose neckline that was revealing just enough to drive him wild. But he didn’t move, just waiting for Aelin to dictate what happened next. 

“The prettiest and the most expensive,” Aelin said.

Fenrys nodded, not taking his eyes off her for a second. “Whatever you say.”

She didn’t bother with the buttons of her blouse, instead she just pulled it over her head. When Fenrys reappeared in her vision his eyes were ravenous and his hands twitched at his side, no doubt warring with himself and the need to touch her. Aelin pulled out the head scarf and then she was bare except for the simple underwear at her hips. Her hand draped from her neck, drifting down between the valley of her breasts.

“Do you promise?” Aelin asked, smirking at the man in front of her who looked ready to erupt. 

She saw the exact moment his resolve snapped, had her laughing as he rushed forward and gave his breathless answer against her lips. “Yes.”

Aelin found herself seated on the edge of her bed, her senses fleeing as Fenrys kissed her. She was half aware of him shedding his jacket and starting on the buttons of his white shirt. The thought came to her that she should help him so that his hands might be better occupied, but she never got the chance to voice it in the slightest. Because Fenrys dropped to his knees in front of her, large hands inching up her thighs. Aelin shuddered and her underwear was pulled down her legs and thrown away. A single wink was all Fenrys gave before on her. 

The first brush of his tongue over Aelin’s core had her gasping, arms quaking where they braced her weight on the bed. Fenrys was one to playfully brag about the wonders for his mouth and Aelin could truly attest to every word. She buried her hand in his curls, ruining the bun he had them tied in, and gave herself over to the feeling of every nip, every press of his tongue. Aelin moaned, loud and unrestrained. It had been too long since someone had made her feel like this. The pleasure built to the point of consuming her when every ministration stopped and Fenrys pulled out of her grasp. 

“The hell… what are you doing?” Aelin asked through her laboured breaths. Her heart was pounding, her body screaming to be touched again. 

“I’ll never last,” Fenrys said, sounding a little mad at himself. That anger only became more evident as he yanked at his clothes to get them off. If Aelin had the wits she might have helped him, but for now she could only watch as everything was revealed to her. “I have to have you now.” 

With his pants gone Aelin could see how much Fenrys meant it. The sight of his cock, hard and ready, had her unconsciously arching towards him with need. Fenrys used that to his advantage, his muscled arm wrapping around her waist and hauling them up the bed. It was Aelin who pulled him in for a kiss and from there she let herself burn. 

Fenrys settled on her hips, pressing their bodies as flushed together as they could be. The feel of him was incredible, the weight and heat of his body was something Aelin had absolutely missed. His hands ran over what they could—her sides, hips and thighs—anywhere he could reach without separating them. All the while his hips drove into her’s, the length of him rubbing enough delicious friction to make Aelin dizzy with need. She writhed against him, trying her best to get him to slip inside her, even trying to distract him by biting down on his bottom lip. It didn’t work, for now Fenrys was content to touch her, not surprising considering how long he’d been at sea. Aelin knew a touched starve man when she saw, and had thrown many of them out of her establishment over the years. If this is what Fenrys needed, she would gladly give it to him and surrendered.

One hand ceased its movements on her thigh, fingers digging into her flesh to pull her open just a little wider. Aelin moaned in anticipation, feeling the head of his cock at her entrance. Fenrys continued to tease her, his unoccupied hand pressing into her side and then up, his thumb taking a moment to run hypnotising circles over the side of her breast before heading upwards again. Then he pushed her arm up and extended it above her head, his hand dragging all the way up to meet Aelin’s. It wasn’t until their hands were laced together that his hips thrusted at just the right angle he slid into her. At the feel of him seated so deep Aelin’s body bowed into the sensation instinctually, trying to draw the man above her closer, deeper. It had Fenrys groaning into the skin of her neck as they both took a moment to collect themselves before he started moving. 

Aelin had expected it to be hurried and desperate, this was anything but. Each roll of his hips was slow and thorough, enough to make Aelin’s breath catch but not take it away. Maybe Fenrys had the right idea, maybe after being apart for so long he was right to savour this first time. She was sure before morning came they would have time for more than enough rounds to make up for it.

“Talk to me, Princess. Let me know you’re here with me,” he nearly begged in between kisses.

“You feel so good, Fen,” Aelin told him. 

“I could say the same.” The thrust that followed that admission was sharper than the others, a sure sign he was slowly unravelling. 

“You know how I like it.”

“Like what?” Fenrys asked, voice edged with desperation as Aelin moaned. “How you like what, Aelin?”

He was enough of a bastard that he would taunt and take away what was currently driving her insane until she said it, and Aelin was tired of playing. “How I like to be fucked.”

At her words, the steady pace that Fenrys had set faltered, had his body shuddering. “The things you do to me.”

His hips snapped, the angle perfect. Aelin only knew she needed more. “Gods, I need you closer.”

Fenrys rolled them both, his grip on her arse keeping them intimately connected. Aelin thought he was going to stop then, but she felt one strong thigh bend behind and then he had pushed himself up so his back lent on her headboard. Aelin panted as she sat in Fenrys’ lap, savouring the feeling this position gave her. She wouldn’t last much longer, the coil in her stomach wound with each shift of their hips. 

“There you go,” Fenrys said sweetly. “I’m right where you want me.”

“Yes,” Aelin whispered. “Thank you.”

The sass that came out of near delirium earned her a rumbling laugh and lingering kiss, making Aelin’s hips roll on their own accord. That undid Fenrys and he kissed her with more urgency as the hands that hadn’t moved shifted her in his lap dragged her onto him, prompting her to move like that again. Aelin did, her hands on the headboard either side of Fenrys’ head. Once she had her rhythm Fenrys let go of her, but not for long. There was a hand on her breast, the other splayed on her pack to push her closer. The man was indeed desperate for contact, only made clearer by his next request.

“Touch me, Aelin.”

She knew he didn’t mean his cock that was still inside her, there was no way in hell Aelin would be willing to with how close she was to breaking apart. Fenrys was after something softer. Her hands left the headboard, and she touched him like he wanted. Sweet caresses over his face, sweeps over his shoulders. It urged Fenrys to move his hips faster, meeting Aelin in perfect synchronisation. His lips on her neck were not what she wanted, so she angled his face to hers, kissing him fiercely. It was his heady groan on her mouth that had Aelin breaking like a wave, pleasure rushing through every nerve of her body. She nearly screamed from the force of it, they had strung it out so long that this relief was blinding and all consuming, all Aelin could do was keep moving to drag it out as long as she could. 

“Fuck,” Fenrys moaned on her mouth, helping her move on him chasing his own pleasure. “Fuck me, Aelin.”

Her over sensitive inner walls felt his cock twitch and then Fenrys was groaning as he came. Aelin kept rocking, wanting to draw it out for the both of them as long as she could. It felt too good to let it fade just yet. The way Fenrys clung to her as he caught his breath was sweet, and as Aelin’s own body calmed she ran a soothing hand over his hair. He hummed contentedly, hugging Aelin tighter against him while his lips wandered aimlessly over her skin.

Aelin chuckled. “Feel better?”

“You are too good to me,” Fenrys murmured onto her skin. 

For a while they just sat there, touching and waiting for the other to move. In the end it was Fenrys, kissing Aelin deeply as he lay her down before pulling out. He didn’t bother with pants and Aelin took the opportunity to admire the view. When he was gone entirely she stretched out, feeling sated but willing for more. Aelin missed him while he was away, and it wasn’t just in the bedroom, it was the conversation and companionship as well. And now that they’d had such a gratifying release of tension there was nothing to say that they couldn’t do both at the same time. 

Soon enough Fenrys returned, cloth in hand, and moments later they were cleaned up and back in each other’s arms. Aelin lay on her side facing Fenrys, and he did the same, his fingers playing with the ends of her hair. She busied herself with idling tracing the scars on his chest. There were no new pale marks that marred his skin. When she ran her finger over a particularly large one low on his side Fenrys shivered. 

“So I hear the Maeve and her crew have fallen into good fortune,” Aelin said.

“That would be true,” Fenrys kissed her forehead before pulling back. “Whitethorn found some maps in an abandoned cave in the Cambrian Mountains. There used to be stories of a creature in the lake that guarded them, so who knows how many years superstition won out. We’ve been more than successful.”

“Good to hear.” It was then that she noticed the blue gem stud in his earlobe. The piercing wasn’t now, Aelin hadn’t seen this earring before. She reached out to flick it. “Is that a sapphire?”

Fenrys nodded his head. “It is. Do you like it?”

Aelin shrugged, and as if she couldn’t help but be drawn to him her body inched closer. “I prefer emeralds.”

“Well,” Fenrys said, voice straining as he used his weight and a hand on her hip to urge Aelin to lie on her back. “Next time I’ll try and bring you some back. Whitethorn usually claims them all first though.”

Aelin scoffed. “Selfish bastard.”

Fenrys’ answer to that was a soft chuckle and an upward sweep of his hand over her body. Instantly Aelin's blood heated again, craving his touch and the release that would inevitably follow. Fenrys read every sign that her body was giving, propped up on an elbow as he watched her try not to writhe. His fingers had claimed the peak of her breast, teasing and pinching until it was hard. When he flicked it Aelin gasped, a hand darting out to hold him by the back of the neck. Then his mouth was on the unattended breast and Aelin gave up fighting her composure.

“You’re not ready yet,” she panted, her body bucking as need pulsed lower. 

“Ah, Princess,” Fenrys said, but Aelin barely heard him. She was too focused on the hand that was travelling down her body. “That doesn’t mean we can’t have fun in the meantime.”

The only answer she could offer him was a deep moan as his thumb reached the apex of her thighs, drawing tight circles that were almost too much. Fenrys slowed down, and shifted so that both his hands and his mouth had something to do. When Aelin gasped as his fingers teased her entrance, Fenrys kissed her, his tongue sliding into her mouth. The sensations of his mouth, the hand on her breast and the other between her thighs had Aelin hurtling towards that peak of release. But Fenrys held her there right on the edge, forcing Aelin to open her eyes and look at him. 

Fenrys’ dark eyes were full of so many sinful promises that there was no doubt what the rest of the evening would entail. “I made you a promise, Aelin. And I intended to keep it.”

With that declaration his fingers slipped into her, finding that spot and moments later she was unravelling and moaning her pleas to the gods. Aelin was in for a long night indeed. 

Soft kisses and wandering hands woke her up the next morning. Her bedroom was barely illuminated by the morning light meaning it must be early. She usually got to sleep late into the morning due to the working hours she kept. But last night it had been Fenrys who had kept her up until the very small hours of the morning. Aelin groaned, this time not in pleasure—at least it wasn’t that way at first. When his hand brushed over her bare breast like that it was hard to maintain her indignation. 

“Why are we awake?” Aelin mumbled into her pillow. 

Fenrys kissed up her neck. “Still on ship's time.”

He was ready. She could feel the hardness and heat of him pressing into her back. It wasn’t a terrible way to be woken up and Aelin supposed she could sleep later. The White Stag wouldn’t open until after noon anyway. Aelin pushed back into him, but went pliant in his hands, a signal that she was willing to give him the lead this time. Fenrys all but growled, nipping at her shoulder and he urged her onto her stomach.

They were in a tangled mess of sheets and bedding, there was some manoeuvring on Fenrys’ part to free trapped limbs. Opening her eyes, Aelin found herself at the foot end of the bed. It seems they hadn’t bothered to put themselves to bed properly after their escapes the night before. Aelin had simply grabbed a pillow and fallen asleep where she was, the pillow she now tossed away as she was pressed into the mattress. Fenrys ran his hands over her body, stopping at her hips just to angle them how he wanted. The sleep haze fled, and want replaced it, causing a needy whimper to escape Aelin’s lips without her permission. 

Fenrys started his trek up her body, his lips leading the way as they trailed up her spine. He brushed her knotted hair over her shoulder and continued to the newly exposed skin. Aelin could feel the heat of his body as he was braced over her now, a hand sneaking its way of the sheets to lay over one of her’s. That little gesture had Aelin smiling, remembering how demanding he had been for small affections last night. This morning was no different. 

“I don’t think I’ve told you enough,” Fenrys said by her ear, making her skin pebble. “You’re stunning.”

“You don’t, I want to hear it more,” Aelin snarked back.

Fenrys snorted, making her laugh in turn. “Duly noted, Princess.”

He lined himself up, the swollen head of his cock pressing against her core. Aelin tried to push herself back to take him deeper, but Fenrys held her still, a silent demand to just wait. She did, it might have killed her a little but she did. Then Fenrys slid in with one delicious stroke. Aelin moaned the entirety of it, loving the feeling of having him inside her again.  

“You are stunning,” Fenrys whispered, accentuating his words with another thrust. “Absolutely stunning.”

“Fen,” Aelin breathed. “More.”

Fenrys dropped lower, still holding most of his weight himself, and shifted so that they moved in a steady grind. It felt so good that all Aelin could do was let herself be swept away in everything he was giving. 

“Stunning.” Fenrys’ breathing was getting harder, the word coming out nearly desperate. 

Aelin was about to demand it harder—faster—when her bedroom door was unceremoniously thrown open, hard enough it slammed on her wall. No knocking, no nothing, there was someone else in her room. Fenrys nearly collapsed on top of her, he managed to stop himself before he crushed all the air out of her lungs. Aelin looked up, glaring and ready to spit her best obscenities at the intruder. The unexpectedness of their identity had the words catching on her tongue and her cheeks heating. 

Because there, in her doorway was none other than Rowan Whitethorn.

“Shit,” Fenrys said, pushing the sheet her way so she could cover herself. He’s always been considerate like that. 

Aelin was the first to recover. “I don’t remember inviting you into my home.”

Rowan ought to be commended for how intently he kept his eyes on her face. “Should have locked your door. Time to go, Moonbeam.”

“Piss off, Whitethorn.” That may have been the first time Aelin had truly heard Fenrys sound angry. 

“I gave you orders,” Rowan said, arms crossing over his chest. 

Aelin wished she had her pistol, or maybe the dagger in her nightstand, just something to threaten the infuriating man with. “Unless you plan to join us, get out.”

Rowan raised one of eyebrows, the tattoos on his face shifting. “You two should be so lucky.”

Gods, here they were chatting and Fenrys was still inside her.

Fenrys seemed to realise the same moment she did, discreetly separating them and using some of the messy bedding to cover himself. Keeping her eyes locked on the green ones, Aelin took a handful of sheet and held it to her chest as she slowly sat up, not caring what might or might not be covered. From the way that the cold morning air nipped at her skin, Whitethorn was getting at least a little bit of a show. 

And right there, Aelin didn’t miss how his eyes finally darted down, just for one lingering moment before he spun around and marching through her living room. 

“Now, Moonbeam!” He bellowed over his shoulder as hand racked through his shoulder length silver hair, making sure to slam the other door that opened to the landing as well. 

There was a moment of charged silence and then Aelin giggled and fell back on the bed. Fenrys joined in, the intensity of their laughter increasing until they were both struggling to breathe. Fingers on her chin tilted her head to the side to see Fenrys’ dark eyes full of amusement. 

“I am so sorry, Aelin.” His voice was still shaking.

Aelin shrugged. “I don’t suppose we could finish up?”

That sobered Fenrys up very quickly. “He’s likely to come back and drag me out naked into the street.”

“That would be quite the end to the story,” Aelin mused like she was considering it. 

“You are pure trouble,” Fenrys said, tapping her nose.

Aelin laughed, taking Fenrys’ hand. “I could say the same about you.”

They both knew he had to go, but neither of them were willing to start the goodbye. In the end Fenrys got up with a heavy sigh, picked up his pants and started dressing. Aelin sat up, watching the disaster unfold in front of her. She thought they would have more time—at least today to enjoy themselves together and catch up. It wasn’t to be and it filled Aelin with a sudden feeling of loneliness.

“Hey,” Fenrys said as he tightened his belt. “I’ll be back in no time.”

Aelin nodded. “With my emerald”

With a crooked smirk Fenrys replied, “With your emerald.” 

“Even if you have to fight that bastard Whitethorn for it,” Aelin pressed, moving to sit on the edge of the bed. 

Fenrys’ hands landed either side of her hips, one last brief moment of closeness. “For you it would be my honour.” He picked up his jacket off the floor, shrugging it onto his shoulders. Fully dressed there was nothing left to delay him and with one final kiss, Fenrys finally said goodbye. “Until next time, Princess.”

Aelin nodded, swallowing against the tightness building in her throat. Fenrys winked then left her room. It was at the final glance of him walking out the deep green door that she finally whispered, “Until next time.”

~~~~~

I know its not the usual but I had so much fun writing these two!

Tags: @fucking-winchester-trash // @literary-licorice // @galyxsy // @tangledraysofsunshine // @highqueenofelfhame // @3am-reading // @soup-that-is-too-hawt // @aelinfire-bringer // @nalgenewhore // @highladyofthesith // @http-itsrebecca // @sleep-and-books // @alifletcher2012 // @westofmoon // @sleeping-and-books // @ttakeitbacknoww // @armixers-unite // @mariamuses // @chocolate-eating-bitch-queen // @velarian-trash // @queenofxhearts // @heroesofterrasen // @highladyofstoriesandmusic // @empire-of-wildfire // @camerooonchiu // @crackedship // @lowhangingtreebranches // @over300books // @yourwhisperingshadows // @thesirenwashere // @tswaney17 // @impossiblescissorspeachpaper // @cat5313 // @judelovescardan // @flowerspringsea // @chaoticskyy // @the-regal-warrior // @fanfictrash3000 // @blueeyes425 // @starseternalnighttriumphant // @bamchickawowow // @thehuntressofmoon // @giorgia-the-trashpanda // @flora-and-fae // @thereaderandfangirl // @illyrian-bookworm // @chemicha // @meltalgel // @gay-book-nerd // @that-odd-puzzle-piece // @i-love-all-books // @in-love-with-caramel-macchiato // @girl-who-reads-the-books // @hizqueen4life // @the-third-me // @1islessthan3books // @bestmelle // @cursebreaker29 // @b00kworm // @superspiritfestival // @aesthetics-11 // @maastrash // @mynewdreamwasyou // @the-last-apprentice // @charincharge // @firestarsandseneschals // @scarznstars // @absolute-dissapointment // @thesurielships // @df3ndyr // @trinitybailey2003 // @gwynethhberdara // @booknerdproblems // @larisssss // @sevenfreckles-for-sevenloves // @rolltide7 // @scandinavianromantic // @tillyrubes10 // @starwarsslytherin // @minaidss // @paytin77 // @jesstargaryenqueen // @anntheintrovert // @starbornvalkyrie // @loudphantomdragon // @woollycat22 // @claralady // @perseusannabeth​ // @fangirlprincess09​ // @maddymelv // @sierrareads​ // @more-espresso-less-depresso-xx // @jlinez // @lysandra-ghost-leopard​ // @rowaelinismyotp​ // @pullnpeeltwizzlers​ // @anne-reads // @jadeaffliction​ // @gracie-rosee​ // @elriel4life​ // @rowaelinrambling​ // @tothestarswholistentodreamers // @thenerdandfandoms // @castielspelvis​ // @swankii-art-teacher​ // @grandma-noob-lord​ // @vanzetanze​ // @highlady-brittney​ // @story-scribbler​ // @linguine-panini // @pastasiren​ // @surielandiareendgame // @silentquartz​ // @live-the-fangirl-life​ // @whimsicallyreading​ // @goddess-aelin​ // @s-uppertime​ // 

[edenesth]

Undying Bonds (Part 10)

Pairing: Hongjoong x fem!reader, Seonghwa x fem!reader

AU: zombie apocalypse au

Word Count: 4.8k

Summary: What could be worse than being separated from the love of your life in a zombie apocalypse? Hongjoong was forced to leave you behind with his friend, Seonghwa, as he ventures out alone to search for the rest of his missing group members. Will Hongjoong be successful in his solo mission to find his members? Will he be able to return to you unscathed? And what happens when you're stuck with his caring best friend, who is hopelessly in love with you, for too long?

Part 9 | Masterlist | Part 11

District 9.

That was the name that only insiders were aware of, only people with the opportunity of stepping foot into SKZ HQ would know.

Though not many people have survived after learning of the name, since they were mostly prisoners taken in either for information, for Seungmin to conduct his many zombie science experiments on, or worse, both.

If you're lucky- or unlucky enough to find yourself in District 9 for whatever reason, chances are it most likely won't be easy to live and tell the tale later on. 'Consider it a small price to pay for having the pleasure to witness such luxury again', was the famous final sentence that Minho never fails to bestow upon his victims before sending them off to meet their cruel ends.

Under different circumstances, perhaps Hongjoong would have been impressed by what he was seeing when they finally made their way into the legendary Stray Kids Headquarters.

Unlike his younger friends, he couldn't find it in himself to feel even the least bit excited about any of this, especially not when he was fully aware of how many innocent lives it must have cost for this insane amount of extravagance to come to fruition.

Hongjoong and his boys were eventually led to the furniture store where the rest of their friends were currently resting at.

The captain's anxieties were slightly eased when he spots Seonghwa, Mingi and Jongho safe and sound. He watched as Yunho, Yeosang and Wooyoung wasted no time in running towards their friends but he stopped in his tracks when the realisation hits, you were absolutely nowhere to be seen.

"Where's my girlfriend?"

That was all it took for Minho to understand who he was referring to. There was only one female amongst all the people here now after all.

The boys stared after their captain who was busy speaking to Stray Kids' second-in-command before he eventually holds a hand up to let them know that he'll be back soon, rushing off in the direction they'd last seen you disappear off to with Bang Chan.

Seonghwa's heart calmed slightly, knowing that Hongjoong would be there to protect you now. He wasn't sure how to feel; on one hand, he was happy for his best friend to be back, but on another hand, there goes his chances of confessing to you. He eventually decides all that really mattered to him was your safety and happiness, whether or not that included himself in the picture.

He snaps out of his thoughts when Mingi and Jongho inquire about the one missing group member, the news that they were about to receive would send the three of them collapsing in an instant.

Meanwhile, the high levels of adrenaline that were running through Hongjoong's veins simply at the thought of seeing you again was enough to send his heart racing. With the rough directions provided by Minho, he makes his way hurriedly to your specific whereabouts in the annoyingly enormous building. Blinded by his eagerness to reunite with you, Hongjoong failed to take notice of the sly glint in the gang member's eyes.

Minho intentionally left out one vital detail, the captain does not know that his girlfriend was alone with Bang Chan.

And the motive behind the right-hand man's actions? It was simply to wreak havoc; Minho could honestly care less about whatever affiliations you had with his leader and would quite frankly rather Chan put an end to this nonsense because he looked pathetic ever since you made your appearance.

So, if sending Hongjoong your way unannounced was what it would take to stir up some trouble, he's all for it.

Hongjoong slowed down in his tracks when he could faintly hear what sounded like your voice speaking and he strained to try listening carefully to what you were talking about.

He stilled when he heard the name Chris coming from you as you tiredly instructed said person to let go of you, that immediately made him pick up his pace again but it wasn't until the following words spoken by the unfamiliar male voice from across the hall that made his blood boil.

"No please, it's still me! I'm still yours, I swear! Just... at least let me explain myself, yeah? All I ask is for you to hear me out this once, you must know how much it pained me to believe you were gone... You were my everything- you still are!"

Oh no, you don't. That's my girl.

The captain saw red when his eyes finally landed on the two figures by the large window, he dared say it almost looked romantic had it not been his own girlfriend forcefully held in the arms of another man.

Still caught up in your conversation, neither you nor Bang Chan had realised a third person stalking his way up to the both of you.

In one strong but gentle pull, Hongjoong had you back safely in his arms at long last. He almost cried in relief at the familiar feeling of having you so close to him again, he felt like he was finally home.

"I won't tell you twice, stay away from her."

The tight squeeze that he gave you when noticing how tense you were managed to help you relax as you sink deeper into his embrace, the small action was enough for him to feel like he could breathe again.

Enraged by the sudden interruption, Chan proceeds to tell Hongjoong off rudely, "And who the hell are you? Know your place, this is between me and her!"

"I'm her boyfriend," He answered proudly, almost laughing out loud at the gang leader's audacity because who was he to raise his voice? The flabbergasted expression on Chan's face made the captain further grin in victory, "B-boyfriend..?"

Hongjoong's heart swelled with pride when you nodded to confirm and pressed closer to him to prove to Chan that he truly was your other half.

Giving your childhood friend a once over almost in distaste, your boyfriend smirks in amusement, "I think this is exactly where I should be, right by her side. Can't say the same for you though, Christopher."

Of course, Hongjoong knows all about Christopher.

There was not a single thing that either of you bothered to hide from one other. You knew each other like the back of your own hands.

And you'd told him all about your past in Australia; about Christopher, about the accident that nearly took your life, about how Christopher had abandoned you after the accident, about your brutal journey in emerging from that darkness all alone.

The heartache that Hongjoong felt when he learned of what you had gone through was something he'd never let himself forget.

He vowed to stay with you always and swore he'd never forgive this Christopher person for what he did or more like, what he didn't do. And here this jerk was, standing right in front of him, having the cheek to beg for your forgiveness after what he's put you through.

Chan laughs bitterly at you, choosing instead to completely disregard your boyfriend's presence, "Is he that special? So much that you actually got into a relationship with him?" Anyone could tell from his tone that he was clearly disheartened by the new information.

You sighed in exasperation, screwing your eyes shut to gather your thoughts for the most effective way to end the conversation.

"Yes, yes, he is. And he has a name, it's Hongjoong. I can tell you how much of an amazing person he is and I know you wouldn't care at all but he means everything to me. He was there for me when you weren't, so please show him some respect… It's the least you could do for me now."

Your former childhood friend's face fell and you looked away from him, the last thing you needed to feel was guilt for him.

"Listen, Chris, can we let whatever happened in the past to stay in the past? I really do not wish to relive any of that, I'd appreciate it if you could just drop this once and for all. There's literally a whole damn zombie apocalypse going on and this is honestly the last thing I want to talk about right now."

At your words, Hongjoong ran his hands up and down your arms in a consoling manner to remind you that he was there with you. Smiling gratefully up at him, you took the moment to look over his features that you missed so dearly before continuing, "And I haven't seen my boyfriend in a while now, can we please be left alone for some privacy?"

Your question was not really a question, the finality in your tone signalled the end of your conversation with Chan.

The gang leader's shoulders slumped in defeat and he did as you asked, not wanting to further upset you. But that didn't mean he's giving up though, he won't be letting you out of his sight so easily now that he's found you again.

For now, just for now, he'd let you spend some time with that little boyfriend of yours.

I'll be back for you, I swear.

Flashing one last glare at Hongjoong as if to challenge him, Chan stormed off with fists clenched tightly to his sides in reluctance. You rolled your eyes at the ridiculous exchange when seeing your boyfriend's eyes also remaining glued to the gang leader's back, clearly displeased.

Once Chan was completely out of sight, you didn't waste another second to throw your arms around your lover's shoulders, instinctively burying your face in the crook of his neck.

Your bodies pressed close as if trying to bridge the time and distance that had separated you. The embrace was tight, as if you were afraid that letting go would mean losing each other all over again.

Tears welled up in your eyes and his, glistening like dewdrops as you held onto one another. The weight of the separation, the longing and the uncertainty melted away in that single embrace. Your fingers found solace in each other's hair, on the small of your backs, as if mapping out the contours of a familiar and treasured landscape.

As you pulled back slightly, you met his eyes and you shared a gaze that was both intense and tender. Every unspoken word, every emotion that had been bottled up during your time apart, seemed to pass between you in that moment. Your eyes spoke of missed moments, of countless thoughts that had been dedicated to the memory of the other and of a love that had only grown stronger in the face of separation.

"You're back," You whispered, tears rolling steadily down your cheeks as he moved to wipe them away, his touch as soft as a feather, "I'm back, my love, and I'm never leaving you again." The look in his eyes was all it took for you to believe him completely.

With a quivering smile, a mixture of laughter and tears, Hongjoong closed the remaining gap between you.

Your lips met in a kiss that was both fervent and gentle, a sweet testament to the depth of your connection. He pressed his lips against your softer ones over and over again, savouring the feeling he feared he'd never be able to experience again.

The world around you seemed to fade into insignificance, leaving only the sensation of your lips touching and your breaths mingling.

"God, I missed you like crazy," He whispered in between, the words sending the familiar warm feeling throughout your body, "Missed you too." You muttered, your words were quickly muffled by his lips.

As the kiss deepened, it was a fusion of emotions—a mixture of relief, joy and an aching awareness of the time you had lost. Hongjoong pulled you closer when his mind drifted back to the moment Soyeon had held him at gunpoint, the time he thought he'd never get to see you or be with you again.

His hands roamed, tracing the lines of your face, cupping your cheeks while yours rested firmly on his shoulders. It was a tactile affirmation of the other's presence, a way of assuring yourselves that this moment was real.

The taste of salt on your lips was from the tears that continued to fall. The kiss was a cascade of emotions, a testament to the journey you had been on individually and the reunion that had brought you back together. It was a declaration of love that needed no words.

Eventually, you pulled away slightly, your foreheads touching as you shared a quiet, intimate moment.

Your breaths were unsteady, your hearts still racing from the intensity of the embrace and the kiss. At that moment, as you held each other close, you knew that no amount of time or distance could ever truly keep you both apart again.

"I love you so much," He whispered, the words immediately bringing a smile onto your face, "I love you too, Joong."

Dread fills your being when you and the captain return to the furniture store to join the rest of the group only for you to sense the sombre atmosphere and upon double confirmation, you realise that one person was indeed missing.

"W-where's Sannie?" You stammered, your heart picking up its speed when the guys avoided your eyes. You hated your mind for immediately jumping to the worst possible conclusions.

Maybe he went to the washroom? Don't scare yourself just yet.

Looking to Seonghwa for answers, you find him biting down harshly on his bottom lip as he painfully held his cries back.

Maybe somewhere deep down, you could have guessed what had probably happened whenever your sixth sense tingled as if to let you know that something's gone terribly wrong but you refused to believe what your gut was telling you until you hear the truth with your own ears.

You could already feel the lump forming in your throat when your boyfriend sits you down on a nearby couch to prepare you for what he was about to tell you.

Your heart wrenched when you catch sight of Mingi and Jongho sobbing pitifully into their hands while Yunho and Yeosang held them close, Wooyoung was staring scarily blankly ahead of him with his hand placed firmly over Seonghwa's trembling ones.

Hongjoong got on his knees in front of you, his grip on your hand tightening and you hated how sad he looked, his eyes glistened with tears, "Sannie… H-he's uhh…" Blinking rapidly and clearing his throat, he took a deep breath before willing himself to just spit it out.

"He's gone… forever."

The captain immediately moved to settle beside you, wordlessly gathering you in his arms when you visibly froze.

Time seems to stop, the words hitting you like a heavy blow to the chest. Your heart skips a beat and a cold numbness spread through your body, making it difficult to breathe. It's as if the air itself has thickened and the world around you fades into a hazy backdrop.

Shock was the first emotion that courses through you, a disbelief that this reality could actually be true. Your mind struggles to process the information, grappling with the enormity of what you've just heard. You want to reject the news, to declare it a terrible mistake, but deep down, you know it's real.

The initial shock is swiftly followed by an intense wave of pain that crashes over you like a relentless storm. It feels as if your heart is being squeezed, an ache that's both physical and emotional.

Your eyes well up with tears and the first sob escapes your lips, raw and unfiltered. It's a guttural sound that echoes the anguish within, breaking Hongjoong's heart as he holds you closer.

Every detail of San flashes before your mind's eye—his bright and adorable smile, his infectious laughter, the way he moved and spoke. You find yourself replaying memories in a desperate attempt to keep him alive in your thoughts. Each recollection is like a lifeline, a way to connect with San who's no longer physically present.

Why… why did it have to be poor Sannie of all people in this world?

Anguish grips you as you grapple with the reality of his absence. It's a heavy feeling, an ache that settles in your chest and refuses to let go. The world suddenly feels like a different place, one that's been robbed of its vibrancy and warmth.

As the shock and pain ebb and flow, you find yourself caught in a cycle of disbelief. You half-expect him to walk through the door, to call for you, to remind you all that he's still here. It's a desperate hope that clashes with the harsh reality and it only serves to deepen the ache in your heart.

"How..?" Your boyfriend pulls away slightly to meet your now red and swollen eyes, "How d-did he… what happened?"

Pressing his lips against your temple for a moment to ground himself, he squeezed his eyes shut as he begins to fill you in on everything that's happened from the beginning of his journey until this moment.

There were no exact right words that could be used to describe the intense ache bubbling in your chest as you listened to Hongjoong painfully recount how San was already bitten when you were all separated to how he tried to keep Yunho away from him as he slowly turned, and lastly, how he ultimately pleaded for your boyfriend, his brother, to put an end to his life.

Mingi and Jongho could hardly believe or digest the words coming out of their group leader's mouth. It was as if a huge chunk of their souls were mercilessly ripped away from them with the gaping void left by San's absence, their one and only sunshine.

The amount of guilt you felt for not knowing or being there with him when he was going through all of that alone was almost suffocating.

He must have been so scared. God, and we didn't even know while he was suffering all by himself...

You, Seonghwa, Mingi and Jongho didn't even get the chance to say goodbye to him. All the regrets going through your mind torturing you endlessly; you should have been more attentive, you should have protected him better, you should have been the one bitten instead. San was the last person on earth to deserve such a cruel fate.

The violent sobs racking your body did nothing to ease the agony within you, your knuckles slowly turning white from clutching so tightly onto Hongjoong's shirt.

He pushed your head firmly into the crook of his neck and somehow, the specific action reminded you of Seonghwa almost instantly. Seonghwa, who has done this countless times as his way to console you. Seonghwa, who was always there for you no matter what.

Pushing yourself slightly off of your boyfriend's chest, you glanced worriedly over at Seonghwa.

He was obviously not taking the news any better than you. Wooyoung did his best to stay strong for his hyung at the moment but there was only so much he could do, when he himself was going through the exact same pain of losing his best friend.

As if feeling your eyes on him, Seonghwa stares tearfully back at you, the shared look between you holding some sort of unspoken message that only the two of you could understand. Your heart hurt at the sight of his tears, he was always so strong for you and seeing him like this now affected you more than you had expected.

A part of you wanted to go to Seonghwa and to be his comfort too but Hongjoong's touch on your face immediately snaps you out of it.

Your attention was once again taken over by your boyfriend, who was apologising for not being a good enough leader. His words only made everyone in the room protest loudly against the statement, all assuring him that none of this was his fault and that he's done the best that he could, given the circumstances.

"You mind telling me what the hell that was all about?"

Minho snarled, he was pissed at Chan for the display of weakness. For a moment back there, Chan looked nothing like the intimidating gang leader that he was known for being and instead, he resembled some weak loser overwhelmed by stupid emotions.

All this just because of some girl, Minho didn't take his boss to be some sappy hopeless romantic. The leader's behaviour from earlier was enough embarrassment to last for a lifetime.

If he didn't know any better, he'd almost say Chan was in love.

Disgusting.

The elder of the two lets out a deep sigh as he stared out at the view of the ruined city from the futuristic electronic gadget store that is now being used as his office. He turns around in his chair and glances up to find a very disgruntled-looking Minho.

"She's my- Look, she's an… an old friend from Australia, okay? I was just… surprised to see her again, I guess. Listen, I know you wish to discuss work but not right now, Minho. I've got to sort things out with her first… or else, I-I can't…"

To Minho's chagrin, the leader appeared somewhat abashed as he struggled to form a proper sentence, it was as if the simple thought of that woman alone was enough to fluster him this much.

Was this really Bang Chan?

The great leader of Stray Kids, stuttering like an elementary school kid over some girl? This was utterly ridiculous and there is no way in hell the second-in-command would stand for it.

Infuriated, Minho scoffed loudly before slamming his palms against the desk separating them as he glared down at his boss.

"You're joking, right? I don't care who that lady was and what she was to you but you need to pull yourself together. I never thought the day would come when I'd have to say this but you're being embarrassing, Chan. As if acting like some lovesick fool wasn't enough, you had to do it in front of our new recruits too? Way to set a good example!"

Hearing this from another person's point of view really did make Chan feel slightly ashamed of his behaviour, the new members must take him for a fool now.

"Thanks to Jisung, one operation's already down. I mean sure, we managed to take everything from the convenience store but with that, came seven extra mouths to feed. By right, we should be getting to work immediately. And now, you're saying you want to do what..?" Minho was fuming at this point.

Chan's nostrils flared at his younger counterpart's boldness before growling lowly in his alpha tone that he'd usually used to intimidate his members when needed.

"Have I been too lenient lately? Don't you dare speak to me like that, Lee Minho. You don't even know half the story. And remember your goddamn place, that's hyung to you by the way." His snarky attitude finally made the younger's lips tug upwards slightly in approval.

Now that's more like it.

"You're right, hyung, I don't. And I'm not interested in learning about any of it, need I remind you of who exactly you are right now? Like you said, she's from the past so don't you think it'd do you good to leave things where they were before?"

This was important to Minho, he needed to know he could trust his leader to still do a good job because Chan was the first and only person to have earned his respect, it'd be a shame to lose any of that over something this silly. After all, he only stayed loyal to Chan because they shared the same vision.

If the gang leader were to stray from their initial plans, Minho would be left with no choice but to take necessary actions. Though he hopes it'll never have to come to that, he'd hate to have to bite the hand that feeds him but there's only so much he's willing to tolerate.

Chan runs a hand frustratingly through his hair, how he wished his friend could just understand the way he was feeling.

He was only human after all, he has emotions too but he supposed that might have been too much to expect from Minho. He's never met anyone quite as cold-hearted and ruthless as Minho, he used to admire the younger for that quality but it was proving to be a bit of a pain in the ass as of this moment.

"You don't get it, it's not that simple! For the longest time, I thought she was dead, Minho, dead! Her 'death' was what made me into the person that I am today, it was because of her that you even got this version of me!"

The younger of the two raises a brow daringly, as if to challenge his boss, "So, are you saying that just because she's alive now, you'll go back to being your weak and pathetic old self?"

"No- God no, Minho, that's not at all what I meant. It's far too late for that anyway… but she's important to me, alright? I must… She went through a lot because of me, I have to make it up to her somehow…"

Minho couldn't believe his ears, "Wow, I hope you realise just how ridiculous you sound. Well, she might as well continue to be dead to you because she's already belonged to someone else anyway. I know that the leader of Jongho's group is her boyfriend."

The annoyed look on Chan's face proceeds to bring Minho satisfaction, "Besides, weren't you the one who taught all of us that 'in this selfish world, only the selfish succeed'? Will you please stop all this useless whining over spilt milk? We have work to do, hyung."

The mere reminder of you having a boyfriend now was enough to set Chan on fire again, making him shoot up from his seat.

"What did you just say?"

Had it been another member, they most likely would have peed their pants just from his tone but Minho was a special case, he wasn't one to back down, "I said, we have work to do," Chan's eye twitched in irritation, "No, before that."

Minho smirked, making it his mission to continue provoking the leader, "Oh, you loved that part, didn't you? I said, she already belongs to someone else. I'm sorry, was that a hard pill to swallow?"

He pouted tauntingly, the hateful grin on his face doing nothing to ease the rage burning within Chan, "Just forget her, hyung. That road's a dead end and we all know it, no point wasting your time." Rubbing more salt in the wound, his goal was to make the leader give up on all thoughts of making up with you.

"I guess you're right. She may be taken now, but not for long though. I'll make sure of that."

That was not at all what Minho had expected him to say, he was hoping to discourage his boss from further involving himself with you. Instead, he realises now that what he said was only fuelling Chan to fight harder for you.

"You just can't let this go now, can you? I swear to god, if taking her out is what it means for you to get a grip on yourself then I will do it."

That did it.

Minho never should have underestimated the depth of Chan's feelings for you. In a flash, the elder male wrapped his fingers around the younger's neck in a grip so tight that it had Minho scratching desperately at the leader's hands for air.

"Lay one finger on her and I swear, you'll be shown no mercy."

As fearless as he is, Minho values his life enough to know Chan was not at all kidding, "I'm your boss, Minho, just remember that and do as I say. We will get back to work soon, don't you worry. I just need some time to… debrief our new friends, is all."

The leader releases his grip eventually, "Now get the hell out of my sight, I need to think."

With a hand on the skin of his throat that was sure to start bruising soon, Minho clenches his jaw tightly at the humiliation he just suffered. Chan has never laid a hand on him thus far, and for him to do this over a mere woman from his past. It's something Minho finds completely unforgivable.

Was Chan even still in his right mind? Was he really putting work aside to waste his time on such silly emotions instead? Well, Chan is sorely mistaken if he thinks Minho will stand by and watch idly as he fools around.

Not wanting to piss his boss off any further at the moment, the right-hand man smiles sarcastically at his superior, "As you wish."

He curtsies dramatically before stalking out.

Oh, I'll remember that, Bang Chan.

We're nearing the climax soon, I estimate the story to end around Part 15. I might do some bonus parts later on if I'm feeling up for it or if there are requests for any. But for now, thank you for reading and as always, don't be shy to let me know your thoughts on this part!

Tag list: @aurasblue @tmtxtf @park-simphwa @sunnyhokyu @felixs-voice-makes-me-wanna

All Rights Reserved © edenesth // DO NOT REPOST, TRANSLATE, PLAGIARISE OR REPURPOSE.

[justinspoliticalcorner]

Oliver Willis at Daily Kos:

An Ohio sheriff called on residents to write down the addresses of neighbors who have expressed support for Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign. In a Facebook post, Portage County Sheriff Bruce Zuchowski wrote, “When people ask me...What's gonna happen if the Flip - Flopping, Laughing Hyena Wins?? I say...write down all the addresses of the people who had her signs in their yards!” He added, “Sooo...when the Illegal human ‘Locust’ (which she supports!) Need places to live...We'll already have the addresses of the their New families...who supported their arrival!”

Zuchowski duplicated the incendiary post targeting Harris supporters and immigrants on his personal Facebook page, attracting commenters who were supportive of the idea.  “Absolutely!! Making a list and checking it twice,” one poster responded. Another wrote, “100% Agreed !!! I’m with you on that one Sheriff.”

Portage County Commissioner Tony Badalamenti condemned Zuchowski’s post and resigned from the county’s Republican Party committee in response.  “This is not the leadership I want to be part of,” he said in a video announcing his decision. County residents told The Portager, a local news outlet, that Zuchowski’s statement has made them fearful. “My parents are elderly and have been very politically active Democrats. I am afraid for them now. I don’t want to scare them or suggest they take down their signs, but I am sick to my stomach with worry,” one woman told the outlet. In a statement, the Portage County NAACP said, “Encouraging people to keep addresses, presumably so they can later be targeted, is counter to bringing all of us together to better our community. We encourage all citizens to vote their values in November.”

[...] Zuchowski backed Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance’s successful 2022 Senate campaign and has expressed his support for Donald Trump in numerous social media posts. In one post, Zuchowski said that it was a “total ‘political’ psycho circus act’” to convict Trump in criminal court. The sheriff also expressed outrage in 2021 when the Cleveland Indians baseball team changed their name to the Cleveland Guardians in a move toward racial sensitivity. 

Portage County, OH “Sheriff” Bruce Zuchowski (R) called on the county’s residents to harass those who express support for Kamala Harris for President.

This story is why Democratic Party supporters tend to be hesitant to publicly display their affiliations in red areas.

[cheeriecherrymain]

Hear me out hear me out: viktor and reader are in a new relationship but it’s his first relationship ever. Never been intimate before that.

So quick warning, just a teeny bit suggestive at the end, but nothing like. Explicit.

i took the prompt in my little gremlin hands and i ran away with it

Viktor x gn!Reader (SFW)

-So I have no idea how old you guys are when you first start dating. Like it would be cute if you meet as teenagers and start then, like the first-everything kind of relationship where you’re both new to it all. But.

-Mid-twenties Viktor, who’s not only never had a serious relationship, but never had any relationships at all. No first kiss, no first date. None of it.

-By then he’s probably jaded as hell about love and romance in general. He’s wary of people, and for good reason, but he’s at least amicable to friendships.

-Dating, though? Nah.

-Or at least he likes to believe as such.

-You’re going to have to friend him really good first. Get to know him, and really listen to the things he’s saying - even if you don’t fully understand what he’s going on about. He would appreciate someone with similar academic prowess as him, but I don’t think it’s required. It might take a little bit longer if you’re not similarly inclined, but as long as you’re kind to him, you’ll get there eventually.

-Once you’re friends, though, it almost becomes scarier to approach feelings. Because once you’re friends, there’s something to lose. It’ll take Viktor a dumb amount of time to figure out why you give him heart palpitations, and once he figures it out, he’s going to be in denial for at least a month.

-He then goes through the other four stages of grief in quick succession, until finally he accepts the fact that yes, he’s maybe a little bit in love with you.

-But he doesn’t do anything about it.

-Why would you want him, anyways? You’re kind, and funny, and lovely, and you could do so much better than him. Despite how much you care for one another in your friendship, he’s still under the impression that he’s not really loveable - that he’s only worth something based on how much he can help other people. He doesn’t understand why you continue to be around him, with how much his presence impacts your social life.

-He’s not dumb: he sees how the other people at the academy look down on you because you openly affiliate with him. He would have broken your friendship off years ago, if he didn’t know that you’d just rap your knuckles on his head and call him a doofus, then continue as if nothing had happened. Also if he wasn’t so selfish about wanting you around.

-Everything comes to a head about six months after his internal feelings panic.

-You’d been invited as a plus-one to some fancy event, by some snob that Viktor can’t remember the name of. Jayce had gone to the party as well, and though he’d extended an invitation, Viktor had opted to remain in the lab for the evening, catching up on note-taking.

-He doesn’t expect you to sneak in around midnight, through the door he was fairly certain he’d locked. Even more than that, he doesn’t expect you to be crying. 

-You look lovely in your simple black dress, and your hair is immaculate in the way you’ve styled it. But he can see the faint tracks of mascara running down your cheeks, as well as the puffiness around your eyes.

-You don’t seem to notice him at first, too caught up in your own whirlwind to focus on anything else besides the cot set up at the edge of the room - placed as such for when either scientist decided he was too tired to head home for the night.

-You plop down on the edge of the little bed, and that’s when your sobs begin in earnest. Viktor almost feels like he’s intruding on your moment, but if he moves, he knows you’ll notice him.

-But it’s not right for him to sit there and say nothing.

- “What happened?” he asks gently, but you still startle at his voice.

-You stare at him in shock for a few seconds, before your bottom lip wobbles and you break eye contact, casting your gaze down at the floor.

- “I’m an idiot,” you say, sniffling wetly. “I’m an idiot, and I shouldn’t have- I shouldn’t have-” You tremble as you cry, your voice breaking off in a series of little cracks.

-Viktor makes his way over to the cot, a concerned crinkle between his brows, and takes a seat at your side. “Your date tonight. He didn’t…hurt you, did he?”

-You scoff. “No. God, no. I just got publicly humiliated, is all.”

-Viktor’s shoulders sag in relief.

-Until you whimper, “I don’t know why I have to try so hard to be loved.” And his heart cracks in half.

-He scoots closer, wrapping an arm around your waist to pull you into his side, and you easily lean into him and rest your head on his shoulder. “You are loved-” he tries to say, but you cut him off.

- “Am I?” you ask, your disbelief obvious. “Really, am I? Because the only people who have ever asked me out have done so as a joke, and the only person I want to ask me out isn’t interested in me.” Viktor winces slightly at your words, and you sigh. “That’s not fair of me. He’s my best friend, and I’m so lucky to have him in my life. It’s just…it hurts, sometimes. To love someone so much and know that they’ll never see you like that. No one will.”

-The two of you sit in silence for a couple minutes - you, processing your feelings, and Viktor, puzzling over who the hell you could be talking about.

-The only friends you had were him and Jayce, as far as he was aware. And you were close to Jayce, but he wouldn’t really describe either of you as best friends, were he to be asked. You didn’t come to visit Jayce every day at the lab, or bring his favourite treats from the little bakery off campus, or let him talk through equations with you. You didn’t encourage him to take breaks, or eat lunch, and you didn’t pet his hair to help him fall asleep after another late night. You only did that with…

-...with him. Your best friend.

-Oh.

- “Zlatíčko,” his voice is low, as he cups your jaw and tilts your head up, “You are loved, in more ways than you know. That, I promise.”

-Your eyes shine in the dim light, glassy with tears yet to be shed. You look so heartbroken, he thinks, but there, in the pinched little crease between your brows, he can see you silently questioning. And then your realization. And then a flicker of hope.

- “You love me?” you ask, the words barely coming out of your mouth. “Like…you love me like that?”

-He barely nods his head once before you’re on him, wrapping your arms around him and toppling him sideways. It startles him so much that he can’t help a single short burst of laughter.

-You make to pull away from him, but he encircles your waist and pulls you back down onto the cot, holding you tight against his chest.

-You’re his first kiss, that night; a little bit awkward, with hands fumbling around to find purchase on your hips, but nonetheless he’s lightheaded by the end of it. Until you pull him in for a second kiss, less mushy then the first. And a third, more breathless. A fourth, growing heated.

-His next slew of kisses mark a path down your body, where you’ve enthusiastically squirmed out of your dress beneath him. His hands shake, and he fears his fingertips are cold against your warm skin, but he hears no complaints from you.

-Only soft little cries for more.

-You’re his first in so many ways that night - his first kiss, his first physical relationship, his first declaration of love. And when he wakes up next to you on the cot the following morning, and peers down at your peacefully sleeping face, he knows.

-You’re his first, and you’re his only.

[theambitiouswoman]

Hello! Do you have tips, advices or any helpful resources on financial independence for beginners? Thankyou in advance!

Of course 💞

Generally, to gain financial independence you need to start by setting a goal. After you set a goal you need to write down your actual scenario as it currently standards. Then you brain map different strategies and actions you can take.

This is probably the easiest time to establish financial independence. It doesn’t matter if you’re 15 or 55, because of all of the tools available to us on the internet.

As a base:

Set a financial goal: Start by setting a specific financial goal that you want to achieve, such as paying off debt, saving for a down payment on a home, or building an emergency fund. Having a clear goal in mind will help you stay focused and motivated.

Create a budget: A budget is a crucial tool for achieving financial independence. Start by tracking your expenses and income, and then create a budget that allocates your income towards your financial goals and expenses. Consider using a budgeting app or spreadsheet to make this process easier.

Mint is budgeting app I use, it helps you track your expenses, set financial goals, and stay on top of your finances.

Reduce expenses: Look for ways to reduce your expenses, such as cutting back on unnecessary subscriptions or finding ways to save on utilities and groceries. This will free up more money to put towards your financial goals. Just like time, people don’t realize how much money they waste. Every bit counts and adds up. Make sure you’re investing your money on things that are absolutely needed- and not simply wasting money you can be using to make more money.

Invest for the future: investing your money in a retirement account or other long-term investment vehicle. Accounts that pay dividends. This can help you build wealth and achieve financial independence over time. This requires some capital and you should have some money saved before you consider starting.

Some authors I recommend would be:

1. Dave Ramsey: The Total Money Makeover

2. Robert Kiyosaki: Rich Dad Poor Dad. His YouTube channel is a gold mine. https://m.youtube.com/@TheRichDadChannel

3. JL Collins: The Simple Path to Wealth

4. Ramit Sethi: I Will Teach You to Be Rich

In order to achieve financial independence, it’s Important to build passive income streams. Passive income requires a smaller budget than what people may believe. If any, in some scenarios.

Passive income can be for example:

Dividend Stocks

Affiliate marketing

Selling digital products

Royalties

Real estate investing

Side hustles can also be passive income steam, and/or have the ability to replace your current main income stream.

I can give you a ton of side hustle ideas. Hundreds. That you can do using your computer. If you give me niches that interest you, I can list recommendations.

The most important aspect however, is mindset. Having a positive mindset when it comes to money and wealth. Your mindset will either drive you to take actions or hold you back. Your thoughts and beliefs about money can have a profound impact on your financial success. Learn how to develop a mindset of abundance and to think creatively about how they can increase their income and build wealth.

[taperwolf]

A thrift store find that I didn't buy, because it's more esoteric than even I could manage to use, and I'm trying not to accumulate large useless things:

This is a Muntz Stereo-Pak player. This particular model is the home version; Stereo-Pak was the first prerecorded magnetic tape format for car audio, released in 1962, and a precursor to the 8-track tape. Music came in cartridges, inside of which would be a long loop of 4-track tape; on the tape would be two streams of music, with left and right channels for each.

You're meant to slide your tape cartridge up against the magnetic read head inside, guided by the brass grooves on the top. I haven't read anywhere that there were different sizes of cartridges, but the different lines on the face and the lack of hard guides suggests that to me. Once it's in place, one of the levers on the right flips a rubber pinch roller up to pull the tape past the head, playing back the stereo tracks. The other lever is a switch that pops the tape head between its upper and lower position, so you change it to change which tracks are playing.

(There was prerecorded audio for cars before then, because some loons decided to install phonographs. Chrysler's "Highway Hi-Fi" (1956-'59), for example, played special 16⅔ RPM records. For obvious reasons, there were problems with skipping, and the higher-pressure tone arms that tried to alleviate that wore the records out faster.)

The format and the players were developed for Earl "Madman" Muntz, an LA businessman known for an eccentric public persona and oddball marketing campaigns (inspiring such successors as "Go See Cal" Worthington and the "Crazy Eddie" electronics chain in New York). He started out with used car dealerships but his real love was electronics; he started Muntz TV in 1947, and was the first to sell a TV set for less than $100, new. He was a self-taught electrical engineer, and got his TVs to be so cheap through a technique still today called Muntzing. He'd decided that most engineers were designing conservatively, building redundancies and safety margins into their devices, so when his employees presented him with a prototype, he'd go at it with a pair of wire cutters. He'd start just snipping parts out until the thing stopped working — and then tell the engineer, "Well, I guess you have to put that last part back in."

(His TVs were fine in the cities, where big stations had strong signals, but worked quite poorly out in areas where the signals were weak; the parts he'd remove were the ones that boosted performance out there. This wasn't by accident, though; his target market was the city dweller with limited funds, and Muntz was content to let RCA and Zenith and such have the high performance market.)

Anyway, Muntz TV went bankrupt in 1959 after various hardships, and reorganized without "Madman" at the helm. (You may be able to make out the note under the logo on the player that Muntz Stereo is not affiliated with Muntz TV.). Muntz himself was still managing to do well with cars and consumer electronics, so he decided to combine the two with the Stereo-Pak. He had a great deal of success for a while with it, but it was later outcompeted by the 8-track player (which won economically because it used less tape to store the music and had a simpler mechanism, and became hugely popular once Ford started offering the players preinstalled). Muntz ran the company that put commercial recordings on the tapes, and that led to probably his biggest unforseen financial problem with these. See, there'd be the new big radio hit, the new big famous musical group, and he'd rush their album out to all the dealers — and when the new hotness inevitably became yesterday's news, the dealers would send the unsold tapes back and expect to exchange them, straight across, for the next new big hit.