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03jyh23 · 3 months

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— facing the fear || choi jongho (part three of finding our way back series)

ex-boyfriend!idol!jongho x ex-girlfriend!single-mom!reader

synopsis: five years have passed since jongho last saw you. your lives have taken drastically different paths, with jongho achieving fame and you focusing on raising your daughter, nari, in quiet anonymity. when jongho discovers he has a daughter, he's determined to be a part of her life.

genre: a slice of life, romance, fluff, some angst

trigger warnings: unplanned pregnancy, illegitimate child, single parenthood, mature language, sex mentioned (this chapter contains an open discussion about heterosexual and homosexual relationships)

words: 11.4k

reminder: what you’re about to read is purely fiction, so let’s keep it separate from reality.

!minors do not interact!

disclaimer: i believe that all my readers are open-minded individuals who support lgbt people and are not prejudiced in any way. i identify as a queer person, which is why i decided to include certain topics in the dialogues of this chapter. inclusivity is important to me, and i would like to be able to include such themes in my fanfictions without worry. before this chapter, i want to remind you once again that this is a work of fiction and in no way represents the true characteristics of the members of ateez.

— hi there!!! AM I SPOILING YOU GUYS WITH ANOTHER PART IN A SPAN OF 5 DAYS? ARE YOU HAPPY? thank you so much for the love i received! i can't describe how much it means to me and how happy i am to see you all enjoying my writing. i hope you will like this part as i'm well aware most of you have been waiting for what this chapter includes. by the way, i'm sorry if i confused the dorm arrangement! (according to my knowledge 1 jongho, hongjoong, wooyoung; 2 mingi, san, seonghwa; 3 yunho, yeosang) since my finals are almost over, i plan to post once a week, preferably on fridays(?). oh, also! please let me know how you guys feel about using korean phrases/words such as hyung/ya/maknae in fanfictions. i tried not to include it but sometimes it just feels weird not to.

love, monika ♡

taglist: @seventeenthingsblr @DALSUWAHA @treehouse-mouse @ateez-atiny380 @sleepy-kat-here @sndeoki @bomi-ja @dearinsaniiiity @vixensss @all-fandoms-rise @finnydraws @hyuckiesgf ♡

(if by any chance i forgot to add someone please remind me once again)

if you wish to be tagged let me know here

Jongho made his way back to the dorm, the small purple box Nari had entrusted him with gripped firmly in his hand. The quiet of the dorm seemed to amplify his growing anxiety. He knew he had to talk to the boys about Nari, but his day had already been filled with so many emotions. He felt a headache coming on, his head heavy with the weight of it all. Maybe it’s better if he waits a bit before talking to them. He took off his shoes and jacket and approached the kitchen.

Once in the kitchen, he decided to make a cup of tea, hoping the warm drink would help with his headache and calm his swirling thoughts. He picked up the small purple box that Nari had given him, his fingers tracing the edges gently. A small smile began to play on his lips as he held the box, the weight of it in his hands bringing back the memory of the little girl who had given it to him. He was reminiscing about the way he held Nari in his arms, her little head on his shoulder and big eyes carefully watching him. He already loved holding her, feeling her small body against his. It was the first time he held his daughter in his arms, and he wished he could do it more often from now on. He didn't want to leave, but he knew better than to put his selfish desires first. It was strange, this sudden realization of himself as a father. The idea was still so new, so foreign to him. He'd spent his whole life thinking of himself as an individual, but now he was a part of something bigger, something more important than himself. He was a father. And, despite the fear and uncertainty that came with that thought, he also felt a sense of pride and responsibility. He was a father, and he was going to do everything in his power to be a good one.

However, the happiness was fading due to one name constantly reappearing in his mind—Hyunwoo. Jongho's lingering thoughts about Hyunwoo began to tarnish his newfound joy, creating an undercurrent of unease that he couldn't shake off. Try as he might to focus on the positive, the thought of Hyunwoo continued to gnaw at him, threatening to overshadow the happiness he had found in Nari.

The sound of the kettle whistling brought him back to the present, and he quickly turned off the stove. He poured the steaming water into his cup; the scent of the tea leaves slowly diffusing into the air. As he sipped his tea, he found his mind drifting back to the day's events. Despite the uncertainty and the lingering questions, he couldn't help but feel a sense of hope. He was determined to face whatever challenges lay ahead, for the sake of his relationship with Nari and, possibly, with you.

Jongho picked up his cup in one hand and the small purple box of cookies in the other and began walking towards his room. Just as he was about to open the door, he heard his name being called out.

"Jongho, you're back?" A familiar voice echoed through the dorm. It was Hongjoong, his voice carrying from the confines of his room. The older boy's voice was soft, laced with a hint of concern.

"Yeah, it's me," Jongho answered as he followed to Hongjoong's room. When he entered the room, he found Hongjoong sitting at his desk, as usual, engrossed in his work. The room was dimly lit, with only a small reading lamp casting long shadows on the walls. Jongho paused at the doorway, watching Hongjoong for a moment. His gaze softened at the sight of the older boy, his usually vibrant eyes now filled with a quiet seriousness,

"Is everything okay?" Hongjoong asked, lifting his gaze from the laptop to meet Jongho's.

Jongho nodded, slowly, "Yeah, just a lot on my mind." He knew he couldn't avoid the conversation any longer.

"Does it have anything to do with Y/N?" Hongjoong asked as he closed his laptop and put his headphones back on the desk.

Jongho hesitated for a moment before answering. "Yes," he finally admitted, his gaze dropping to the cup of tea in his hands. He took a deep breath, steeling himself for the conversation he knew he had to have. Hongjoong's expression turned serious, and he nodded for Jongho to continue. He knew that when Jongho was ready to talk, he would.

Just as Jongho was about to speak, his gaze fell on the small, purple box he had almost forgotten about. "This," he held up the box, "is from Nari." His voice was soft, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "She wanted me to give it to Wooyoung. It's cookies she made."

Hongjoong's eyes widened in surprise, "That's really sweet of her," he said, a fond smile on his face. "Wooyoung will definitely appreciate this."

Jongho nodded in agreement, "Yes, he will" he replied, a hint of sadness in his voice. It was clear that he was still lost in his thoughts, the earlier conversation with you clearly weighing on his mind.

"I know you held a company meeting today," Hongjoong started, he leaned over to pat a chair next to him, a clear invitation for Jongho to sit down. His eyes held a glimmer of understanding, as if he knew that Jongho had a lot on his mind and was ready to lend a listening ear. Jongho took the invitation and sat down, setting the cookie box aside. Hongjoong reached out to place a comforting hand on his shoulder. "Wanna talk about it?" he asked gently, his eyes filled with concern.

Jongho stared at him for a moment, then let out a sigh. "Yes," Jongho confessed, finally releasing the words he had held back. "I need to talk about it. I need to talk about Y/N, about Nari... and about a man named Hyunwoo." His voice was heavy with a mixture of confusion, longing, and a trace of fear.

Hongjoong's eyebrows furrowed at this. "Hyunwoo?" he echoed, a hint of surprise in his voice. "Who is he?"

Jongho sighed, his gaze dropping to his hands. "I don't know," he admitted, his voice barely a whisper. "But he's close to Y/N. I saw a text message from him on her phone. He referred to her as 'love'." His voice faltered slightly at the end, the words leaving a bitter taste in his mouth.

Hongjoong was silent for a moment, processing the information. The atmosphere in the room was heavy, "Have you talked to Y/N about this?"

Jongho shook his head. "I didn't get the chance. And even if I did... I wouldn't know what to say." He looked up, meeting Hongjoong's gaze. "What do I even ask? How do I bring this up without sounding like I invaded her privacy?"

Hongjoong thought for a moment. "Firstly," he began, "you didn't invade her privacy. You found her phone and saw the message. It's not like you went snooping through her texts." He paused, giving Jongho a reassuring look. "And as for what to ask... Just be honest. Tell her what you saw and how it made you feel. It's better to talk things out than to let your thoughts spiral."

"I don't think it's a good idea to talk to her about how I feel," Jongho said, his hands tapping nervously on the table. "She's reminding me all the time that we are doing this for Nari, yet I can't help but feel all of these emotions when I am with her."

"What emotions?" Hongjoong asked.

Jongho paused, searching for the right words. "I don't know... I feel... confused, I guess? And I can't help but feel a bit jealous when I think about this Hyunwoo guy. And there's more... I feel a connection with her, it's like something’s drawing me towards her. It's hard to explain."

Hongjoong nodded, understanding in his eyes. "It sounds like you're still in love with her, Jongho."

"How can I be in love with her? It's been five years," Jongho almost whispered, emotion threatening to overwhelm him any moment now.

"Love doesn't just disappear, Jongho," Hongjoong replied, his voice filled with understanding. "It can lie dormant, waiting for the right moment to resurface. And seeing Y/N again, meeting your daughter... those are powerful triggers."

The words hung in the air, heavy and undeniable. Jongho didn't respond immediately, his gaze fixed on the floor. Finally, he looked up at Hongjoong, his expression vulnerable. "Maybe I am. But what does it matter? She has someone else in her life. And even if she didn't, it doesn't mean she feels the same about me."

"Jongho," Hongjoong began, his voice steady and calm. "Feelings are complicated. It's completely normal to feel the way you do. You and Y/N have a history together and now you have a daughter. It's natural to have feelings for her."

"But what if she doesn't feel the same? What if I'm just holding onto something that isn't there anymore?" Jongho asked, his voice heavy with worry.

"Then you'll deal with it," Hongjoong stated simply. "You can't control how she feels, just like she can't control how you feel. All you can do is be honest with her and with yourself." Jongho nodded, taking in Hongjoong's words. His heart was still heavy, and the fear of the unknown still loomed over him, but he felt a bit calmer, a bit more ready to face whatever was to come. "Jongho, you don't have to choose between focusing on Nari or pursuing your feelings towards Y/N," Hongjoong continued. "I am not a father but…" At these words, Jongho chuckled, looking at Hongjoong. The older boy had always been like a father figure in the band, always looking out for the others and guiding them when they needed it. Hongjoong laughed softly, catching on to Jongho's thoughts. "I mean, I'm not a real father," he added, a twinkle of amusement in his eyes. "But I believe that if you want to create a family with Y/N, it can't be done in separate stages," Hongjoong continued, his words filled with understanding. "You can't simply discard your emotions and solely concentrate on being a father. It's not that straightforward. These two aspects are linked and need to grow together. You're not just a father, Jongho, but a man who still loves the mother of his child. And that's okay. It's okay to allow yourself to feel this way, to explore these feelings while also focusing on being a father to Nari. It's okay to be human and not have everything figured out. This journey you're on, it's not just about parenting, but also about healing and growing as a person. And part of that growth involves acknowledging and understanding your feelings for Y/N. So, don't try to separate the two. Let them happen at the same time." Hongjoong's words hung in the air, heavy with truth and understanding. Jongho felt a strange mix of relief and fear. The idea of allowing himself to experience these complex emotions was daunting, yet it also felt right. He understood that he had been trying to separate his feelings, handling one thing at a time to keep control. But life, as he was quickly learning, was rarely that simple.

Jongho nodded, acknowledging the truth in Hongjoong's words. He felt a sense of gratitude towards his friend for offering a perspective he hadn't considered. "You're right, Hongjoong," he admitted, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I guess I've been trying to simplify things, to make this all more manageable. But I can't ignore my feelings for Y/N. And I won't." He paused, letting the words sink in. "I need to confront this, for Nari, for Y/N, and for myself."

Hongjoong returned the smile, his eyes reflecting a sense of understanding and support. "That's the spirit, Jongho," he encouraged. "Facing our emotions may be scary, but it's the only way to truly understand ourselves and move forward. And remember, you don't have to do this alone. I'm here for you."

Jongho felt a surge of gratitude. He was lucky to have such a supportive friend. He knew the road ahead wouldn't be easy, but with Hongjoong’s support, he felt ready to face whatever came his way.

Feeling lighter than before, Jongho allowed a genuine smile to reach his eyes. In a playful tone, he joked, "I aspire to be as good of a father as you, Hongjoong." This comment earned him a small punch in the arm from his friend, who couldn't help but break into laughter at the compliment.

Their moment of levity was suddenly interrupted by Wooyoung's voice. "Who wants to be a father?" the boy, who had just woken up from his nap, asked. Standing in the doorway with tousled hair, he looked at them with curiosity.

Caught off guard, Jongho and Hongjoong exchanged a glance, both momentarily at a loss for words. "For how long have you been listening?" Jongho asked, his playful demeanor from a minute ago long gone.

"Well, it's just that San woke up and wanted me to grab him a glass of water, and I just left my room," Wooyoung yawned.

Hongjoong gave Wooyoung a quick glance before returning his gaze to Jongho. "We were just talking about...things," he said vaguely, not wanting to delve into the details. Jongho nodded, appreciating Hongjoong's discretion.

"So, San is here?'' Jongho asked, his gaze shifting briefly towards the direction of Wooyoung's room. There was a hint of curiosity in his voice, a subtle shift in the atmosphere as he awaited Wooyoung's response.

"Yeah, he is," Wooyoung answered, rubbing the sleepiness from his eyes. He stifled a yawn before continuing, "He couldn't sleep well last night, so he came over earlier to catch up on some sleep."

Jongho nodded in understanding then turned to Hongjoong, seeking his opinion. "Should we just call the rest of the guys then?" he asked, his eyes searching for reassurance in Hongjoong's gaze.

Hongjoong considered the suggestion for a moment before nodding. "Yes, I think it's time," he agreed, a sense of determination in his voice. "We should all be on the same page about this."

"What are you guys even talking about?" Wooyoung asked, clearly confused, as he leaned into the doorframe. His eyes flicked between Hongjoong and Jongho, searching for answers in their serious expressions. But before Jongho could open his mouth to explain, a loud voice from Wooyoung's bedroom caught them all off guard.

"Ya! Wooyoung, do you want me to die of thirst?" San's voice rang out, filled with exaggerated distress. The three of them turned towards the direction of the voice, a look of amusement passing between them.

"Quit being so dramatic!" Wooyoung shouted back, rolling his eyes but not able to hide the smile tugging at his lips. He then pushed himself off from the doorframe and finally made his way into the kitchen.

"I thought separating those two would earn me some peace," Hongjoong sighed, his gaze following Wooyoung as he made his way into the kitchen, "But what was the point of dividing us into three different dorms when San is always here." He shook his head, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Despite his grumbles, it was clear that he wouldn't have it any other way. The bond they all shared was unbreakable, and no matter how often they bickered or teased each other, at the end of the day, they were family. "I'll send a message to the rest of the boys," Hongjoong offered, pushing himself up from his chair and stretching his arms above his head. He looked at Jongho, a determined expression on his face. "In the meantime, you should go and grab some food for us. We'll need something to keep us going while we discuss everything." He paused, a smirk playing on his lips. "Ever since Yeosang moved in with Yunho, I swear those two live off air and video games. I bet they haven't had a proper meal in days." He shook his head in mock disapproval, his tone dripping with dramatic exaggeration.

Jongho chuckled at Hongjoong's dramatic performance, acknowledging the truth in his words. "Alright, I'll pick up some food. Any preferences?" he asked, standing up from the chair.

"How about something spicy? The spicier the better," Hongjoong suggested, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I bet that would wake San and Wooyoung up pretty quickly."

Jongho laughed, shaking his head at Hongjoong's antics. "Spicy it is then," he conceded, pulling on his jacket. As he was about to leave, he paused at the door, turning to look at Hongjoong. "Thanks, hyung," he said, his voice filled with genuine gratitude.

Hongjoong simply nodded, a warm smile on his face. "Anytime, Jongho. We're all in this together, remember?"

Jongho smiled at his older friend and nodded, "I'll remember that" he said, his voice filled with gratitude.

"Hey, San! Rise and shine, sleep is for the weak!" Hongjoong shouted with a mischievous grin as he entered Wooyoung's bedroom.

Jongho smiled to himself, pulling on his jacket. His conversation with Hongjoong had left him feeling a little lighter, a little more hopeful. The road ahead was still unclear, filled with unknowns and potential challenges, but he was not alone. He had his friends, his brothers, standing by his side, ready to face whatever came their way together.

Just as Jongho stepped out of the dorm, he fished his phone out of his pocket and dialed your number. As he made his way towards the nearest restaurant, he could feel the nervous energy coursing through him. He still hadn't fully processed everything that had happened, and despite the reassurance he got from Hongjoong, he was still filled with a sense of unease. He wanted to call you to discuss the decision he had made about telling the boys about his newfound fatherhood. He felt he needed your consent to move forward with this, and he was hoping to get your approval. He waited for you to pick up, each ring echoing in his ears, amplifying his anxiety. Just when he was about to end the call, assuming you were busy, he heard the phone being picked up. However, instead of your voice, he was met with a male voice, catching him off guard.

Jongho's heart skipped a beat as the unfamiliar voice echoed in his phone. "Hello, Y/N's phone. Who is this?" the voice asked, a hint of curiosity lacing his tone.

Jongho cleared his throat, trying to keep his voice steady. "This is Jongho," he replied, his mind racing as he tried to figure out who the person on the other end of the line was.

"Oh, Jongho? Y/N's mentioned you," the voice replied, sounding slightly surprised. "This is Hyunwoo."

The mention of the name sent a shock through Jongho. This was the Hyunwoo he'd been worrying about, the one whose name had been haunting him. He struggled to find his voice, the shock leaving him momentarily speechless.

"Is Y/N there?" Jongho finally managed to ask, his voice barely above a whisper.

"Uh, she's in the shower. Can I take a message?" Hyunwoo offered, seemingly oblivious to the tension on Jongho's end.

"No, it's... it's okay. I'll call back later," Jongho replied, quickly hanging up the phone. His mind was a whirlwind, the implications of the call leaving him breathless. He stood there for a moment, trying to collect his thoughts, before continuing his walk to the restaurant.

Jongho tried his hardest to shove the thoughts to the back of his mind, but they kept creeping up, filling his thoughts as he mindlessly entered the restaurant. He ordered the food, his eyes glued to the menu but his mind somewhere else entirely—on Hyunwoo, on you, on Nari. The anxiety was clawing at him, the gnawing feeling in the pit of his stomach growing with each passing minute. He couldn't help but imagine Hyunwoo there with you, spending time with Nari while he was away. These thoughts consumed him as he waited to pick up his order, his heart pounding against his chest in rhythm with the ticking of the clock.

Finally, he left the restaurant, his hands clutching the bags of food tighter than necessary. He was about to enter his building, his mind still swirling with what-ifs and worst-case scenarios, when his phone rang. It was you, calling him back. He felt his heart skip a beat, the sight of your name on his screen both comforting and terrifying. He took a deep breath, bracing himself for the conversation that was about to follow.

Just before he picked up the call, he steeled himself, reminding himself that he needed to focus on the bigger picture. With a deep breath, he answered the call, his voice steady as he greeted, "Hello, Y/N."

"Jongho you called earlier? I just got out of the shower. Is everything okay?" Your voice echoed in his ear, a mixture of concern and surprise.

"Yeah, everything is fine," Jongho quickly reassured you. He paused, trying to figure out how to approach the conversation. "I just... I wanted to talk to you about something." He could hear the hesitation in his own voice, his mind racing with thoughts of what your reaction might be.

"Sure, what's up?" You asked, your voice filled with curiosity. Your calm demeanor helped Jongho to steady himself. He realized he needed to be honest, to talk to you about his feelings and the decisions he had made.

"I... I've decided to talk to the boys about... about Nari," Jongho confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. He held his breath, waiting for your response, the silence on the other end of the line amplifying his anxiety.

After what felt like forever, you finally responded. Your voice, when you spoke, was soft, filled with understanding. "Jongho... I think that's a good idea," you reassured him, your words lifting a weight off his shoulders. "They are your family. They deserve to know."

Jongho let out a sigh of relief, his heart pounding in his chest. "Thank you, Y/N," he whispered, gratitude flooding his voice. With your consent, he felt ready to face whatever came next. Yet, Jongho was dying to ask about Hyunwoo, to understand who he was in relation to you. Just as he was about to give in to the urge to know, he heard Hyunwoo's voice in the distance, calling your name. His heart skipped a beat, the sound of Hyunwoo's voice serving as a stark reminder of the complexity of the situation.

"Love, are you still on the phone?" Hyunwoo's voice echoed in the background, his tone casual and familiar. The sound of his voice sent a sharp pang of jealousy through Jongho, stirring up a whirlwind of emotions that he struggled to keep at bay.

"Who was that?" Jongho found himself asking, the words escaping his lips before he had a chance to fully process them. He could hear the curiosity lacing his tone, a direct reflection of the whirlwind of thoughts swirling in his mind. However, as soon as the question left his mouth, he immediately regretted it. He could feel a sudden rush of apprehension washing over him, a stark reminder of the delicate line he was treading. This was not a conversation he wanted to have over the phone, and certainly not one he wanted to rush into. Knowing that he had stepped into a territory that he was not ready to traverse, Jongho quickly tried to deflect his previous question. "Actually, never mind. It's not important," he said, his voice filled with a forced casualness. He didn't want to pry into your personal life, at least not yet, not when he himself was still trying to figure out his own feelings.

There was a brief silence on the other end of the line, making Jongho's heart pound in his chest. He could almost feel the wheels turning in your head, deciding how to respond to his sudden withdrawal. "Jongho, it's okay," you finally spoke, your voice gentle, almost soothing. "Hyunwoo is..."

However, before you could finish, Jongho, eager to end the call, interrupted you. "I'm actually about to talk to the guys now." There was a certain finality in his voice, a determination that suggested he had made up his mind and was ready to face whatever came next. "We'll talk more later, Y/N." With that, he ended the call, his heart pounding in his chest. He took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves.

Upon reaching the dorm, Jongho paused at the entrance to gather his thoughts. He took a moment to look at the bags of food he carried in his hands, a small smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Here goes nothing," he whispered under his breath, drawing in one long, calming breath before he pushed open the door.

Inside, he was greeted by the familiar faces of his friends. Their expressions were a mix of curiosity and concern. His gaze naturally found Hongjoong, who gave him a reassuring nod, a silent message of support that eased some of the anxiety Jongho felt.

Taking a deep breath, Jongho broke the silence. "I brought some food," he said, setting down the bags on the table. His voice was steady, but the members could sense a hidden tension beneath his casual demeanor.

Yunho immediately stood up and walked over to Jongho. "Let me help you," he offered, taking some of the bags from Jongho. With Yunho's help, the food was quickly spread out on the table.

"But before we start eating," Jongho began, setting down the plates and chopsticks. His voice had turned serious, causing the members to pause mid-conversation and look at him. "There's something important I wanted to discuss with you all."

"What's up, Jongho?" Seonghwa asked, his brow furrowing in concern. The atmosphere in the room had noticeably shifted, the air charged with anticipation.

Jongho paused for a moment, taking in another deep, steadying breath. His heart pounded rapidly, echoing loudly in his ears. The reality of what he was about to reveal made him feel as if he was carrying an enormous, burdensome load. He looked around at everyone gathered in the room, their expectant gazes only adding to the pressure he was under. Summoning every ounce of courage he had, he finally spoke up, his voice steady despite the nerves. "I have something important to share with you all," he began, his words hanging heavy in the air. He took another pause, letting the seriousness of his statement sink in. "Something... significant."

The members exchanged curious and worried glances. "What's going on?" Yunho asked, instinctively sitting up straighter, his eyes keenly focused on the youngest. Jongho momentarily hesitated, his lips parting as he searched for the right words to convey his news.

"Are you okay?" Mingi asked, his voice filled with genuine concern. The members had picked up on Jongho’s hesitation, their worry for their friend evident.

Jongho nodded his head affirmatively, his eyes reflecting a sense of calm acceptance. "Yes," he began, his voice steady and reassuring, "I'm perfectly fine." He paused momentarily, gathering his thoughts before continuing. "Recently, I found out that..." His expression softened, a hint of vulnerability seeping through. "I... I have a daughter. A beautiful little girl who has made me see the world in a whole new light. Her name is Nari." The room seemed to swallow itself in a stunned, thick silence, as if the air had been sucked out in one fell swoop. The boys, taken aback, could only stare at Jongho, their gazes boring into him as they grappled with the enormity of the revelation he had just made.

"A daughter?" Wooyoung repeated, his voice barely above a whisper, the word reverberating around the room. His eyes were wide with shock, disbelief etched into every feature of his face. His mind was spinning, trying to comprehend the unexpected news. "Since when?" He finally managed to stammer out, the question hanging heavy in the air.

Jongho nodded again, his eyes meeting each of theirs in turn. "Yes, a daughter. She's going to be four years old soon. I only learned about her, well… yesterday."

Struggling to comprehend the situation, San managed to stammer out, "How... how did this happen?" His facial expression was a perfect illustration of his bewilderment and surprise.

Wooyoung, attempting to alleviate the tension in the room with a quip, scoffed and said, "Did you seriously just ask him about the birds and the bees?" His attempt at humor served as a brief respite in the heavy atmosphere.

Jongho chuckled nervously at Wooyoung's comment, appreciating the attempt to lighten the mood. "It's... complicated," he admitted. "But what's important now is that she's here, and I want to do right by her."

Yeosang, who had been quiet the whole time, finally spoke up. "Jongho, this is huge. How are you handling it?"

Jongho sighed, running a hand through his hair. "It's overwhelming, to be honest. But I want to be a part of Nari's life. That's why I needed to tell you all. I need your support and understanding as I navigate this."

The members were quiet for a moment, processing the news. Then, Yunho spoke up, his voice gentle. "We're here for you, Jongho. Whatever you need, we'll support you."

Seonghwa, who had been quietly absorbing the revelation, finally voiced his thoughts. "What about your daughter's mom?" he inquired; his tone full of worry. "Don't tell me you're married!" His terrified expression was somewhat amusing.

Jongho laughed lightly, shaking his head at Seonghwa's worry. "No, no, I'm not married. Her mom is Y/N. We dated a while back, but… let’s just say things didn't work out." He paused, the mention of your name bringing a soft smile to his lips. "But despite everything, we're trying to work together for Nari's sake."

"I can't believe there's a mini version of Jongho walking around this earth," Yeosang exclaimed, his eyes wide with astonishment. The room, previously filled with shock and concern, lit up as the other members burst into laughter.

"Yeah, imagine a tiny Jongho running around, breaking apples left and right," San joked, grinning widely.

Jongho found himself caught up in the infectious laughter, his shoulders dropping as some of the tension he had been carrying seemed to melt away. He said, "She's got my eyes," a clear note of pride resonating in his voice.

Yunho, his expression painted with curiosity, tilted his head slightly, "Does she also have your voice?" he asked.

A warm smile spread across Jongho's face as he spoke. "She's definitely got some musical talent. Y/N told me she loves singing along to our songs."

"Looks like we've got a future idol in the making," Hongjoong remarked, a twinkle of excitement in his eyes.

Seonghwa leaned in, a playful smirk on his face. "So, Jongho, when are we going to teach her the choreography for our next comeback?"

"One step at a time, guys," Jongho chuckled. "First, I need to actually get to know her better."

Mingi nudged him with his elbow. "You know, this means you'll have to take her to one of our dance practices. She must see her dad in action."

"She would love that," Jongho admitted, his heart warming at the thought.

"I honestly thought Seonghwa, with his baby fever, would have a baby first," Wooyoung laughed, resulting in a smack from Seonghwa.

"Ya, Wooyoung!" Seonghwa responded in mock outrage, though the corners of his mouth lifted into an amused smile. "Just because I like kids doesn't mean I'm ready to have one yet."

Hongjoong couldn't resist joining in on the friendly banter. "And who in their right mind would want to have a child with Seonghwa?" he teased, a playful grin spreading across his face.

In response, Seonghwa fixed him with a mock stern look. "Watch it, Hongjoong," he warned with a playful glint in his eyes, "Or I'll make sure you're the first one to babysit."

The room filled with laughter again, the light-hearted teasing helping to diffuse any lingering tension.

"You know," Wooyoung said, still chuckling, "if Seonghwa did have a kid, that kid would be the most spoiled child on the planet."

"Only the best for my imaginary child," Seonghwa retorted with a smirk. The room erupted in laughter again, the playful banter easing the tension even more.

Jongho couldn't help but laugh along with them, feeling a deep sense of gratitude for his friends' support and humor. "Thanks, guys," he said, his voice filled with emotion. "I really appreciate all of you."

"Seriously, though," Mingi said, looking at Jongho with a sincere expression. "We’re all here for you. Anything you need, just let us know."

"Yeah," Yeosang chimed in. "We’re Uncle Ateez now. We'll spoil her rotten."

Jongho’s heart swelled with gratitude. "It means a lot to me. I was nervous about telling you all, but your support means everything."

Hongjoong nodded. "We’re a family. We stick together no matter what."

"Plus, we can teach her all the important things," San added with a mischievous grin. "Like how to prank you."

As the teasing and laughter continued, Jongho felt a profound sense of relief. His brothers' acceptance and support meant the world to him. It gave him the strength and confidence he needed to face the challenges ahead, knowing that he wasn't alone. He had his family by his side, ready to support him as he stepped into his new role as a father.

Wooyoung grinned, trying to lighten the mood. "So, when do we get to meet her? I mean, she's part of the family now, right?"

Jongho cleared his throat, feeling a sudden rush of nerves. "Actually... you've already met her," he confessed, his gaze dropping to the floor.

The announcement was met with a stunned silence as the members stared at him, their eyes wide in disbelief. "What do you mean we've already met her?" Yunho asked, his voice filled with confusion.

Jongho nodded, taking a deep breath before continuing. "Y/N was at our fan meeting with Nari." The memory of the fan meeting caused a wave of realization to wash over the members. They remembered seeing a little girl there.

"That little girl... That was Nari?" Mingi asked, his voice barely above a whisper.

Jongho nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Yes, that was Nari."

Wooyoung, who was completely dumbfounded, finally broke the silence. "Wait, so you're telling me the sweetest little girl who jumped right into my arms, that pure angel... is your daughter?" His voice was filled with astonishment as he stared at Jongho, the realization slowly sinking in.

Jongho chuckled lightly at Wooyoung's reaction, appreciating the humor in the situation. "Yes, that's right."

Wooyoung laughed, a mischievous glint in his eyes as he declared, "It's over for you bitches! I'm already her favorite." His confident assertion was met with a burst of mocking laughter from the other members. They playfully booed and wooed him, their friendly banter echoing throughout the room. The energetic atmosphere was infectious, and despite the weight of the revelation he had just shared, Jongho found himself joining in the laughter.

"Well, I made her laugh," San argued, crossing his arms indignantly, "Everyone knows that laughter is the key to a kid's heart. So technically, I should be her favorite."

"Laughter, huh?" Wooyoung retorted with a smirk, "Well, I actually got a hug from her. Physical contact beats laughter any day."

Yunho decided to chime in, "Guys, I think we're all forgetting that I'm the one who gave her a high five. So, I'm pretty sure I'm her favorite."

Jongho couldn't help but laugh at the ongoing friendly competition, feeling a sense of warmth spread through him. "Guys, it's not a competition," he finally managed to say, his voice filled with amusement. "But it's great to see that you're all excited to be a part of Nari's life."

"Of course we are," San responded, his voice sincere. "She's part of our family."

Hongjoong, who had been silently observing the playful chaos, decided to intervene. "Alright, that's enough," he declared, a playful smirk on his face. "Jongho, you need to tell us who her favorite is. A man's pride is at stake now." Wooyoung looked at Jongho expectantly, a triumphant smile already forming on his lips.

Jongho sighed, wishing he didn't have to say this, didn't have to admit that indeed Wooyoung was her favorite. But he needed to end this friendly debate, so in a dramatic tone he stated, "Alright, you got me. Wooyoung... you are indeed Nari's favorite." A collective gasp filled the room followed by Wooyoung's triumphant laughter.

Wooyoung's laughter echoed through the room, his chest puffing out with pride. "I knew it!" he exclaimed, pumping a fist in the air. The other members rolled their eyes at his display, but their smiles betrayed their amusement.

The atmosphere in the room had lightened considerably. What started as a serious and nerve-wracking discussion had somehow turned into a friendly competition. Jongho couldn't help but feel grateful. His brothers, his family, had not only accepted his news but were also excited to be a part of his daughter's life.

San, still grinning at Wooyoung's antics, turned to Jongho. "We're really happy for you, Jongho." His words were sincere, his gaze soft. "And we can't wait to be the best uncles Nari could ask for."

Mingi nodded in agreement, a smile spreading across his face. "We'll be here for you, every step of the way."

Jongho felt a lump form in his throat, his heart swelling with gratitude. He never doubted his friends' loyalty, but hearing their reaffirmations was comforting. It reassured him that he wasn't facing this journey alone.

"Thank you, everyone," Jongho said, his voice choked with emotion. "I'm really lucky to have you all." The warmth in their eyes was all the confirmation he needed. He was surrounded by his family, ready to face the challenges of fatherhood together.

"Do you think we will be able to properly meet her soon?" Seonghwa asked, his gaze filled with anticipation.

Jongho nodded, a hopeful expression on his face. "I've been talking to Y/N about it, and she agrees that it would be good for Nari to get to know all of you. We just need to figure out the right time and place." The members nodded, understanding that this was a big step and one that needed to be handled with care and consideration. They all agreed to be patient and wait for Jongho to make the arrangements, knowing that this was a sensitive matter.

The atmosphere in the room was filled with understanding and support, but Seonghwa finally voiced the question that had been lingering in the back of his mind. His tone was gentle, not wanting to intrude on Jongho's privacy, but curiosity and concern for their friend prevailed. "Jongho," he began, his gaze steady and kind, "I hope you don't mind me asking, but... why didn't things work out between you and Y/N?" Everyone in the room turned their eyes towards Jongho, waiting patiently for his response. It was not a question asked out of idle curiosity, but rather one rooted in genuine concern for their friend's well-being.

Jongho took a moment to collect his thoughts, appreciating the gentle way Seonghwa posed the question. His gaze fell to his hands, fingers lightly drumming on the tabletop as he sought the right words to convey the complicated history that existed between him and you. "I met Y/N before our debut and… well, you can imagine how that was," Jongho began, his voice trailing off as he lowered his gaze to look at his hands. Speaking about it was more difficult than he had anticipated. He had spent countless nights pondering over whether he should've allowed himself to get so close to you, especially right before ATEEZ's debut. He knew he had risked not just his career, but also the harmony within the group. However, he also understood that honesty was crucial. If the boys knew about Nari, they should also know about his past relationship with you.

Mingi broke the thoughtful silence that had settled over the room, drawing everyone's attention to him. "So, the infamous dating ban?" he asked, his voice echoing softly in the quiet space.

"Yes, the dating ban," Jongho confirmed. There was a trace of melancholy in his voice, his lips curling into a sad smile that didn't quite reach his eyes.

Wooyoung let out an exaggerated sigh. "Dating ban was such bullshit," he complained. Jongho chuckled at Wooyoung's dramatic sigh. He found a sense of solidarity in Wooyoung's words and nodded in agreement, his response a silent testament to their shared sentiments.

"Well, if there's anyone here who should be talking, it's definitely you," San interjected, causing Wooyoung to furrow his brows in confusion, not quite grasping the implication of his words. Without skipping a beat, San continued, "I mean, I believe we all remember that you had a boyfriend back then. It's not exactly a secret, is it?"

Wooyoung's eyes widened, a look of surprise flashing across his face. He opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. He glanced at Yeosang, who was trying to suppress a grin, and then at Mingi, who simply shrugged, a knowing smile on his face.

"Wait, you knew about that?" Wooyoung asked, his voice filled with disbelief.

"Of course, we did," Yunho replied matter-of-factly. "You weren't exactly subtle, Wooyoung."

"Yeah," Jongho added, his grin widening. "Your secret rendezvous weren't as secret as you thought."

Wooyoung groaned, burying his face in his hands. "I can't believe you guys knew all along and didn't say anything."

"Well," San said, trying to suppress his laughter. "It wasn't our place to say anything. And besides, it was kind of fun watching you think you were getting away with it."

Just as Wooyoung was gathering his thoughts, preparing to open his mouth to speak, Yeosang, with a sly grin on his face, suddenly interjected. He smoothly diverted the conversation to a memorable event, saying, "I remember this one time when we were recording the music video for Deja Vu." Yeosang continued, his tone teasing, "You came to set sporting this huge hickey, it was impossible to miss." He laughed and added, "You really thought you had fooled us when you blamed it on the stylist, claiming that you were accidentally burned by a hair curler, didn't you?"

Wooyoung's face flushed a deep red as he stammered, trying to find a way to defend himself. "I... I mean... it... it was a believable excuse, wasn't it?" He blurted out, his voice wavering slightly. The room erupted in laughter, each member clutching their stomachs as they bent over in mirth. The memory of Wooyoung's failed attempt at deception amplified the hilarity of the situation, and even Wooyoung himself couldn't help but join in the laughter.

Mingi decided it was time to share his piece of information. "Well…" he began, drawing out the word to create a sense of suspense among his friends. After a dramatic pause, he continued, "Wooyoung wasn't the only one in a relationship."

As these words left his lips, all eyes in the room turned to him, their attention now fully captivated. After enjoying a moment of being the center of attention, Mingi finally added the crucial piece of information. "Yunho was dating too," he revealed, his voice echoing in the sudden silence that followed.

The room fell silent for a moment, all eyes turning towards Yunho. The surprise on their faces was comical, but the atmosphere was far from tense. There was no judgement in their gazes, just a mild shock and a lot of curiosity. Yunho simply shrugged, a small, sheepish smile spreading across his face. "Yeah," he admitted, scratching the back of his head in embarrassment. "I was seeing someone back then too."

The announcement was met with a range of reactions. San whistled, a playful smirk on his face. Seonghwa, on the other hand, let out a light chuckle. "I knew it," he said, pointing a finger at Yunho. "I could tell there was someone on your mind."

"So, the girl with pink hair, right?" Yeosang asked, a wide grin spreading across his face. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the table, his eyes dancing with amusement. His gaze was fixed on Yunho, who was visibly taken aback by the sudden inquiry. "The one who was our assistant when we were shooting Kingdom?" He continued, the question lingering in the air, adding an element of suspense to the conversation. Yunho shifted uncomfortably in his seat, the unexpected spotlight making him squirm. He scratched the back of his head, a nervous chuckle escaping his lips as his eyes darted around the room, meeting the curious gazes of his bandmates. From the corner of his eye, he could see Jongho trying to suppress a grin, clearly enjoying the sudden turn of events. Yeosang leaned back in his seat, the satisfied smirk on his face signifying his victory.

"How did you... know?" Yunho asked, his eyes wide with surprise. His voice echoed softly amidst the silence that had fallen upon the room.

San, a grin playing at the corners of his mouth, turned his attention to Yeosang, who was enjoying his moment in the spotlight. "It seems like Yeosang knows everything," he voiced out, a note of amusement in his tone. His words hung in the air, drawing a round of chuckles from the other members.

Yeosang, a smirk tugging at his lips, leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms over his chest. His eyes sparkled with amusement as he met San's gaze, clearly enjoying the unexpected attention. His laughter filled the room, a sound that was contagious, causing the other members to join in. His response to San's comment was delayed as he tried to control his laughter, the sound echoing off the walls of the room. Once the laughter died down, Yeosang finally addressed San's statement. Still chuckling, he nodded in agreement, a playful glint in his eyes. "Well, someone has to keep tabs on you guys," he retorted, earning a round of laughter from the others. "But to answer your question," Yeosang began, his smile broadening as he turned his gaze towards Yunho. There was a playful twinkle in his eyes that prompted a round of chuckles from the other members. "I just have a good eye for detail," Yeosang responded with a shrug, a smug grin on his face. "It was pretty obvious with the way she looked at you, Yunho." He concluded, causing Yunho to blush at the accurate observation. "And let's not forget those late-night 'phone calls' you used to have," Yeosang added with a wry grin, air-quoting around the words 'phone calls'. "I mean, I didn't know phone conversations could get so... intense." His words, filled with playful insinuation, caused another wave of laughter to ripple through the room. "And let's not forget the mysterious 'noise' that came from your room during those late-night 'phone calls'," Yeosang added, a teasing glint in his eyes. "I mean, I didn't know phone conversations could get so... loud." He concluded, causing another round of laughter to fill the room.

"Alright, alright, that's enough," Yunho finally managed to say, his cheeks flushed with embarrassment. "I get it, I wasn't as sneaky as I thought I was."

"I guess the Dating Ban was bullshit for all of us," Wooyoung quipped, earning a round of laughter from the others.

In a moment of sudden revelation, Hongjoong, with a hint of disbelief in his voice, asked the room, "Was I really the only one not involved in dating?"

Nonchalantly, Seonghwa, with a teasing glint in his eyes, responded in a humorous tone, "Well, you were sort of dating... you were totally absorbed in your work." Hongjoong's question was met with a round of laughter, Seonghwa's quick wit lightening the mood even further.

"That's true," Hongjoong admitted with a chuckle, "I was indeed dating my work back then."

"Wait a minute," Yeosang interjected, an intrigued look on his face as he turned towards Hongjoong. "Weren't you seeing this one guy from Balmain? You know that guy with really cool tattoos? I remember you mentioning something about him right around the time they were considering lifting the dating ban." The room fell silent as everyone turned to look at Hongjoong, their eyebrows raised in surprise and curiosity. Caught off guard by Yeosang's unexpected revelation, Hongjoong found himself at a loss for words. "I mean... it was... what I'm trying to say is," he stuttered, pausing as he tried to gather his thoughts. "It was way later than the others…" he finally managed to say, the admission hanging in the air amidst a room full of intrigued pairs of eyes.

Before he could recover, Mingi, who had been quietly observing the exchange, suddenly burst out, "Wait, hold on a second! Was Hongjoong the reason they decided to lift the ban?" He pointed at Hongjoong accusingly, his eyes wide with disbelief and shock. Hongjoong spluttered, his face flushing a bright red as he scrambled to deny Mingi's claim. The room erupted in laughter at his flustered reaction, the seriousness of their earlier conversation forgotten.

"No, no, that's not how it was at all!" Hongjoong exclaimed, his eyes wide as he tried to explain himself. He paused for a moment, collecting his thoughts before continuing. "I had absolutely no idea that the company was even considering lifting the dating ban when I started seeing him. It was all just a coincidence, nothing more." Hongjoong looked around the room, his gaze meeting each of his bandmates in turn, hoping they would believe him.

Despite the surprise that had initially taken over them, the members of the group couldn't help but join in the laughter at Hongjoong's flustered state. A tinge of amusement was evident in their eyes. San, with a grin spreading cheekily across his face, chimed in, "Alright, Hongjoong," His tone was teasing but friendly. "We believe you...for now."

Wooyoung, still unable to completely stifle his chuckles, moved towards Hongjoong. With a comforting pat on Hongjoong's back, he tried to reassure him. "Don't worry, captain," he said, his grin never leaving his face as he looked at Hongjoong, "Your secret is safe with us." His words, filled with sincerity and a promise of trust, hung in the air, solidifying the bond among them.

"Let's just get one thing straight, Hongjoong," Jongho began, his voice carrying a serious undertone that instantly caught everyone's attention. His gaze was steady, his eyes reflecting the confusion and a hint of resentment that had been brewing inside him. He wished he didn't have to disrupt the light-hearted mood that had settled in, but he found himself compelled to voice the question that had been nagging at him for far too long. The room fell silent. The laughter that had been resonating just moments ago seemed to have evaporated, replaced by an air of anticipation. All eyes were now on Jongho, waiting for him to continue. He took a deep breath, preparing himself to voice out the question that had been weighing on his heart. "If we were all, at some point or another, involved in dating despite the ban..." he said, his voice steady despite the serious topic. His gaze never left Hongjoong, seeking answers in the leader's reactions. He paused for a moment, gathering his thoughts before he continued. "Why was it me who had to give up on Y/N? Why did you force me to break up with her?" The question hung in the air, raw and potent. It was a question that dug deep, unearthing a past that Jongho had tried to bury. A past filled with regret, heartache and unspoken words. The question was met with silence, the members exchanging glances, each lost in their own thoughts and recollections. Hongjoong looked taken aback, clearly not expecting Jongho's question. He opened his mouth but closed it again, seemingly struggling to find the right words. The silence that followed was deafening, all eyes now turned towards Hongjoong who sat quietly, his gaze steady on Jongho.

"Jongho," he finally started, his voice steady and calm. "Our situation back then, it was... it was different." He paused, carefully choosing his words. "We were only rookies. The risk was too great. It wasn't just about you, or me, or any of us individually. It was about ATEEZ." His words filled the room, silencing any potential objections. He looked around at his bandmates, his gaze lingering on each of them as he continued. "We all made sacrifices. We all had to give up something, or someone, for the sake of our dreams. It wasn't easy, but it was necessary." The room was silent as Hongjoong's words sunk in. Each member was lost in their own thoughts, reflecting on the sacrifices they had made and the choices they had to live with. "I know it was hard," Hongjoong added, his gaze returning to Jongho. "And I'm sorry you had to go through that. But we made it, didn't we? We're here because of the choices we made, the sacrifices we made. And I believe it was worth it." Jongho remained silent, his gaze fixed on Hongjoong. He understood where Hongjoong was coming from, and he knew that the decisions made back then had shaped them into who they were today. But that didn't make the pain of losing you any less real, any less raw. The laughter and friendly banter that had filled the room just moments ago seemed like a distant memory now. All eyes were on Hongjoong, each member taking in his words and the weight they carried. "I know that I am partially to blame for your absence in your daughter's life," Hongjoong continued, his voice laced with a palpable regret that filled the silent room. "I realize now that my actions and decisions back then have had a profound impact, not only on you, Jongho, but also on a little girl who deserved to have her father by her side. For that, I am truly sorry." Hongjoong cleared his throat before continuing, "If I ever hurt any of you with my actions or decisions, I am so sorry," his voice filled with raw emotion as he looked around the room, "As a leader, I'm the one responsible and I wanted nothing more than for all eight of us to be successful." His voice trembled, and he was on the verge of tears. And then, in a voice barely above a whisper, he made a confession that hung heavy in the room. "I... I gave up on someone too." His confession was met with silence, a solemn moment of understanding passing through the room. Hongjoong continued, his voice barely above a whisper, the attention of the boys fixated on him in the quiet room. "She's married now. She found someone who makes her happy, someone who was there when I couldn't be. I genuinely am happy for her," he paused, his gaze falling on his hands as he battled with the emotions welling up inside him. "But sometimes I find myself thinking 'what if.' What if circumstances had been different? What if I had made different choices?" His voice trailed off, leaving the unsaid words hanging in the tension-filled room. Each member was lost in their own thoughts, reflecting on the sacrifices they had made and the choices they had to live with.

"Hongjoong, I don't blame you," Jongho interrupted, his voice firm yet gentle. His heart ached for his friends who were shouldering an immense burden of guilt. "We both didn't know Y/N was pregnant," he continued, his gaze softening as he tried to reassure Hongjoong. "We were all in the dark about her pregnancy. None of us could have predicted what was to come." The room fell into a contemplative silence as Jongho's words echoed, a reminder of the unforeseen circumstances that had led them to this point. "And while it's true that I missed out on some moments in Nari's life," Jongho added, his voice steady with conviction, "I'm here now. And I'm ready to make up for lost time. We all are." His words were filled with resolve, a promise to do right by his daughter.

Hongjoong nodded, acknowledging Jongho's words. "We're with you, Jongho," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "We'll support you and Nari every step of the way."

"And if anyone tries to mess with our niece," San added, a fierce determination in his voice, "they'll have to deal with all of us." His words were met with nods of agreement from the other members, their faces reflecting their shared resolve.

"And Jongho," Hongjoong began, his voice heavy with the weight of his words, his gaze locked onto Jongho's with an intensity that demanded his undivided attention. "We all made sacrifices. Each of us, at one point or another, had to let go of someone we deeply cared for, someone we loved." He paused, letting the gravity of his words sink in, their echoes filling the room with a solemn silence. "Considering all the sacrifices we made, for the sake of our dreams and for the sake of ATEEZ," he continued, his voice steady despite the heavy topic, "you owe it not just to yourself, but to all of us, to fight for Y/N." His words were punctuated by a determined nod, an unspoken pledge of support hanging in the air between them. "You have to muster the courage within you, fight against the odds and fight for your love. You have to fight for the chance to be with Y/N, to be a father to Nari, to build the family that you clearly want." He concluded, his gaze softening as he offered Jongho a reassuring smile. "Because at the end of the day," Hongjoong said, his voice softer now, "love is a battle worth fighting for. And I want all of you guys to know," Hongjoong voice carried a seriousness that instantly drew the attention of his bandmates. "That even though our personal lives are evolving, we still need to stay focused on our work. We've been doing such an incredible job, and I couldn't be prouder of each and every one of us." He paused, allowing his words to resonate in the silent room. Hongjoong continued, "But moving forward, let's make a pact to be honest with each other. Let's not hide our feelings or our relationships out of fear." His gaze swept across the room, meeting the eyes of his friends who listened attentively to his words. "We shouldn't be scared of a scandal or of what others might think. We should remember that love is what makes us human." He took a deep breath, the weight of his next words hanging heavy in the air. "So, for the love of God, guys, let love in. Embrace it. And most importantly, talk to us about it." Hongjoong concluded, his voice filled with sincerity and a hint of urgency. "We're a family, and there should be no secrets between us. Let's support each other in all aspects of our lives, personal or professional."

Mingi, who had been quiet for a while, cleared his throat, drawing the attention of his bandmates. There was an air of anticipation as they turned to face him, the room falling silent as he prepared to speak. With a small, nervous smile on his face, he looked around at his friends and admitted, "Actually, I'm... I'm seeing someone now." The eyes of his bandmates widened in surprise; their gazes fixated on Mingi. His words hung in the air, creating a moment of stunned silence. "It's still really fresh," Mingi continued, his voice filled with a mix of nervousness and excitement. "But I really wanted to tell you." He took a deep breath, steadying himself before continuing. "I'm... I'm dating a guy." His confession, delivered in a soft voice, echoed in the silence. The room remained quiet for a while as his words sunk in, each member processing the revelation. The atmosphere was one of uncertainty, as Mingi waited for someone to break the silence. Then, slowly, smiles began to form on the faces of his bandmates. Nods of understanding and acceptance started filling the room, each member expressing their support for Mingi in their own way.

Wooyoung was the first to react, his surprise quickly turning into a wide grin. "That's great, Mingi!" He exclaimed, his enthusiasm breaking the silence.

San followed, a soft smile on his face as he nodded at Mingi in agreement, "We're happy for you," The atmosphere in the room had shifted from shock to acceptance, and soon enough, it was filled with a renewed sense of brotherhood. The bond they shared as a group was stronger than ever. They were not just bandmates; they were a family. And in a family, love and acceptance were all that mattered.

In the aftermath of Mingi's revelation, Hongjoong directed a playful question towards the group. "So Jongho is a father, Mingi is a taken man... Is there anything else you guys are hiding?" His tone was light, but there was a hint of curiosity in his eyes as he scanned the room.

Seonghwa, with a broad grin on his face, let out a chuckle that echoed through the room, breaking the silence that had momentarily settled. "Well, we all are uncles now, that's a new one," he remarked, his words drawing a round of laughter from the others. The thought of being 'uncles' was still a novelty to them, a new role they were more than willing to embrace. After the laughter had subsided, Seonghwa added another revelation, his tone teasing. "And Yeosang might just be a part-time detective," he said, earning a surprised look from Yeosang and another round of laughter from the group. "With the way he's been figuring out everyone's secrets, he might as well consider it as a second career." His comment was met with nods of agreement, each member recalling Yeosang's uncanny ability to notice the smallest of details.

"And we can’t forget San's newfound addiction," Wooyoung chimed in, a playful look on his face. "Protein shakes, protein bars, protein everything!" His comment drew laughter from the group. San responded with a playful smack on Wooyoung's arm, his face flushing with embarrassment but a grin on his face.

"Hey, it's not an addiction, it's a lifestyle," San retorted, trying to defend himself amidst the peals of laughter. His attempt to justify himself only made his friends laugh harder.

"Guys let's also not forget one of the most entertaining aspects of our group dynamics," Mingi chimed in, a playful glint in his eyes. He paused for dramatic effect, causing the room to fall into a moment of anticipatory silence. Then, with a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth, he finally revealed his thoughts. "If only San was gay, Wooyoung would have already married him by now!" His words, delivered with impeccable timing, caused an eruption of laughter to fill the room. The members doubled over, clutching their stomachs as they laughed.

Wooyoung, upon hearing Mingi's teasing comment, was left speechless for a moment. He then burst into hearty laughter, his face flushing a deep shade of red, but there was a twinkle in his eyes that revealed his amusement. He managed to retort between bouts of laughter, "Well, if San would have me, I wouldn't say no!" His comment added to the hilarity, earning another round of laughter from the group.

After the laughter had died down, San, still grinning from Wooyoung's retort, chimed in. "Well, I guess we'll have to see about that," he said, winking at Wooyoung. His comment elicited another round of laughter. Then, with a mischievous glint in his eyes, Wooyoung made a kissy face at San, causing the room to burst into another round of laughter. San responded with a playful roll of his eyes.

"But let's not forget," Yeosang added, his eyes glinting with amusement, "Mingi is saying all this as if he wouldn't risk it all for Yunho." His statement, filled with playful insinuation, hung in the air, causing another round of laughter to ripple through the room.

Yunho, who had remained quiet for a while, finally chimed in with a chuckle. "Well, I guess we all have our secret crushes... or not-so-secret, in some cases." His comment, accompanied by a teasing look towards Mingi, added another wave of laughter to the room.

"Thank you guys so much," Jongho started, his voice carrying a heartfelt note in the room filled with his bandmates. "I know that this is the beginning of something new for me. Things are going to change, my life will definitely take a significant turn." He paused for a moment, his words hanging in the air as he collected his thoughts. "But to know that I have the support of my bandmates, my brothers," he continued, his voice stronger now. "It means more than I can express. It gives me strength and confidence to face the challenges that lie ahead. To know that I'm not alone in this journey, that I have you guys standing by my side, it means the world to me."

"Eight make one, right?" Mingi smiled at Jongho, his words echoing the sentiment they all held close in their hearts.

"That's the spirit!" Yeosang chimed in, his smile matching the warmth in his voice. "We're a team, a family. We've been through a lot together and we'll continue to face whatever comes our way, together." The room was filled with nods of agreement and smiles around. The atmosphere was light, yet filled with a profound sense of unity and resolve. They were more than just a band – they were a family, bound not just by their shared dreams and experiences, but by the love and respect they held for each other.

"Let's continue to work hard, for ourselves, for ATEEZ, and for ATINY," Wooyoung voiced out, his tone determined yet filled with heartfelt sincerity. His words were met with a chorus of agreement, each member expressing their shared commitment to their dreams and to their fans.

"We've come a long way, haven't we?" San mused, a nostalgic smile tugging at his lips. His words prompted a round of nods, each member reminiscing about their journey – the struggles they had faced, the victories they had celebrated, and the countless memories they had created together.

"And we still have a long way to go," Hongjoong added, his voice ringing with determination. His words were met with nods of agreement, the resolve in his voice reflecting in the eyes of his bandmates.

"But as long as we have each other, we can face anything," Yunho concluded, his gaze meeting each of his bandmates in turn. His words, filled with conviction and unwavering faith, hung in the air, solidifying the bond among them.

"I hate to say it but could we maybe... do a group hug?" Jongho suggested his voice barely above a whisper. He hadn't even finished his sentence when Wooyoung, unable to contain his excitement, was already all over him, pulling him into a tight embrace. The others quickly joined in, forming a tight huddle around Jongho, their laughter and chatter filling the room.

In the comfort of the group hug, each member felt a sense of relief and unity. They were there for each other, through thick and thin, a testament to their unbreakable bond.

"Eight makes one team!" Hongjoong shouted, his voice echoing in the room. The rest of the members joined in, their voices blending into a chorus that filled the room with a sense of unity.

#ateez x reader #ateez x y/n #ateez x you #ateez fanfic #ateez fanfiction #ateez series #jongho x you #jongho x reader #jongho x y/n #jongho mini series #jongho fluff #jongho angst #jongho fanfic #jongho fanfiction #finding our way back series

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hazz-a-bear · 5 months

Text

YOUR HAND IN MINE, wen junhui

♡⸝⸝ As soon as Junhui shot up and excused himself from the dinner table, your eyebrows furrowed in concern. If only the love of your life trusted you enough to take care of him at his worst.

.ᐟ sick junhui ( i'm sorry for inflicting pain on this boy, i really am ) fever, mention of throwing up, nervous and stressed reader, junhui needs to learn how to ask for help, the daunting ordeal of not asking to be taken care of because of the fear that comes with being a burden to your loved ones, absolute sweethearts minghao and jihoon

a/n - sick junnie is such a cat, i can cry. somebody give this boy a kiss and tell him it's okay. leave some feedback please please <3

masterlist | taglist

When Jihoon suddenly puts a hand on your shoulder, you jump in your seat. Startled by his out-of-order action, you let your eyes find his, a question pausing in the air. You watch as Jihoon sighs and gives you a look - quite unreadable as always. When you simply cocks your head to the side, Jihoon is sighing again like a damsel in distress before he finally nudges his gaze towards your lap, specifically, your knee and oh –

You let your eyes zero on the way your knee bounces in sync with the song playing through the venue - a good hundred-something bpm to it and almost making it look like it's having a seizure of its' own. Wait, holy shit, were you shaking the fucking table?

"Calm down, you weren't" It's Minghao who comforts you from the other side of you, having moved to the empty seat next to you while you've been distracted. "You're fidgety"

Minghao is almost peering into you, doe eyes slightly wide as they run along your face with concern clearly written across his eyes. From your other side, Jihoon is pretending to not listen. He's long retracted his hand and sat back in his seat, but you knew he still had one year stuck in the conversation out of concern.

"Yn," Minghao almost whispers as if not to bother you. "Hey, calm down. It's okay. I'm sure he's alright"

You try your best to nod, not trusting yourself to give him a verbal answer knowing you would just end up with a whole lot of nonsense pouring out of your mouth as a result of your nerves. But still, even as you silently reassure him, you can't seem to stop the shaking in your leg, the shudder in your breath and that god-awful feeling in your gut.

"I'll go check on Jun" Jihoon says from your right, giving away how he'd been listening and making you look up at him.

He's already getting up from his place, brushing his hands against his pants as he squeezes between your chairs and slips away from the seat. From the corner of your eye, you see Minghao trying to get up as well, only to be forced back into his chair by Jihoon with a hand on his shoulder.

"Stay with her. I'll go" You hear Jihoon say to the younger, stern and a rare display of worry dripping from the words rolling out of his tongue.

"Yn? Yn, look at me" There's a light feeling of pressure on your knee, and you turn your face to meet Minghao's eyes, ever so comforting. "Hey, it's okay, honey. Jihoon hyung will check on him, okay? And then they'll be back, and then he'll be right here next to you. No need to get worked up, yeah? Junnie wouldn't want you to get worked up at all"

Minghao is peering into your face again, nodding and confirming if you've processed what he's saying before smiling kindly at you. "So, just breathe. He's okay"

The way Minghao is so careful with his words, trying to calm you down with the gentlest touch and the softest words reminds you of just how great of a person he is.

Minghao has always been so fond of you, ever since you entered Jun's life as a constant figure. At first, he might have been a little hard to approach. Considering just how protective he was of his Jun gēgē, you understood when Minghao shied away from warming up to you when you'd been introduced to each other. Junhui had been the most eager when the two of you met, almost bouncing off his feet at the mere thought of his two favourite people (his words, of course) becoming close. It had taken some time for you two to get comfortable with each other as Jun's best friend and Jun's partner, yet by now, you're convinced that Minghao considered you a sister - maybe a mother figure even. Minghao is now one of your best friends as well - the two of you often hang out by yourselves, sharing similar likings in music and flavours of tea. So it was inevitable for him to get worried when you started spacing out ten minutes into Junhui's disappearance - eyes hazy and knee starting to bound under the table.

"He kept saying he didn't feel good. He actually didn't seem well at all today" You stagger, slumping your head. "I thought it was nothing, so I didn't bother asking. Gosh, Hao, I should've checked on him a little more"

"Hey, come on" Minghao shifts in his seat, bringing a hand to rest on top of yours in an attempt to console you. "He'll be okay, I'm sure. You have nothing to be scared of. Jihoon is with him, yeah? He'll be feeling better, and he'll be back to his usual self in no time, yn"

"But I should've asked. Hao, you know perfectly well how he doesn't say out loud when he's sick. He thinks he's being a burden, so he doesn't tell me even though he needs me. And god, it worries me so much" You try your best to stay calm, seeing a few others like Joshua and Jeonghan looking your way with lifted eyebrows and confused glances.

You seriously did not want to cause a scene in the middle of the function in front of everyone - but also, you had an extent to keep your composure while your boyfriend was probably passing in the restroom.

The Seventeen boys ( or mostly Seuncheol and his wallet ) had planned a dinner party, a quiet get-together with all their close friends following the end of their tour.

Junhui had been so excited when he passed you the invite, all giddy and smiles, bouncing on his feet as he suggested the two of you should wear matching outfits and be lovey-dovey all evening to purposefully piss Jeonghan off for his 'lack of bitches/respectfully' ( Again, his words ) His excitement passed on to you, more because of Junhui's boxy smile and lit up eyes as he romped around than the whole dinner ordeal. Sure, you were just as eager to celebrate the guys finally having a moment to wind down, but seeing Junhui so happy-go sunshine was better than anything in the whole world.

When the two of you woke up this morning, Junhui hadn't forgotten to cheerily mumble into your shoulder about how he picked a suit to match your outfit, and Jeonghan was going to be so sour all night about it.

You had expected him to be stuck to you all day, talking your ear off about everything and nothing all at once since today had been an off day for him. His habitual routine at home was being stubborn all day and refusing to let go of your arm to follow you around the house like a boy cat.

You hadn't first noticed any signs of sickness at all as Junhui spent the morning like usual, clinging to your back and playing on his phone for the most part. And when he asked if he could go and lay down for a while, you'd simply thought he wanted to rest out of the weariness that came with the newly ended tour.

You pressed a kiss to his forehead before sending him off to bed to get a good rest, knowing he would have to stay active for the latter part of the night. Junhui almost slept the entire afternoon off, curled up on your bed with a newfound frown pinching his eyebrows together even in his state of unconsciousness. When you finally woke him up, Junhui had spent a fair share of minutes groaning and whining before getting out of bed, saying something about a headache, and quickly waving a hand to shoo you off when you instantly got worried.

Even as you kept asking him once the two of you left the house, he had simply smiled and pressed a soothing kiss to your temple over the console, telling you not to worry your pretty little head ( His words for the third time )

It was Seungkwan who pointed out how pale Junhui looked, joking about how he should go out into the sun a little bit more or he'd end up like Jihoon. Mingyu and Seokmin joined, saying something about how it would be another Macau situation if he didn't take care of himself enough - which made you throw a hurried gaze of worry towards Junhui, who avoided your eyes as his life depended on it.

Even Seungcheol, who mostly kept to himself turned towards you at some point during the night, quietly asking if Junhui had been eating well after returning home from the tour.

And since then, you hadn't been able to stop the waves of worry from washing over you.

Junhui had been doing a great job of trying to pretend like he was okay for the most part. The painful pinch that took over his features while he made conversation with one of the guests was gone as soon as it came. Junhui was back to his usual smile with rattled eyes darting around to see if he'd been caught. Later, when you saw him wavering on his feet, hand immediately flying to his temple, you had been by his side in an instant, asking if he was surely okay. Your boyfriend flashed his million-dollar smile at you once again, turning away to introduce you to one of his friends and successfully steering the attention away from the matter at hand.

It was when Junhui excused himself from the table to go to the restroom you started getting anxious. It was clear to anyone with a working pair of eyes that Junhui was not feeling well. Even if nobody voiced anything outright - the concerned looks the boys threw at you said enough.

And now, seeing Jihoon return with his face twisted into a scowl, you were on your feet immediately, anxiety doubling in amount and Minghao following right beside you.

"What's wrong?" Your voice came out breathless and frantic, hands reaching to hold Jihoon by the arms. "Is he okay?"

"He caught something serious by the looks of it" Jihoon sighs with an unsettling look in his eyes. "He threw up. Dinner and maybe lunch too, all of it. I tried to get him out, but he's asking for you. He doesn't look good"

From the corner of your eyes, you can see how the rest of the boys are trying to listen to your conversation, wanting to know how Jun's doing after abruptly getting up and leaving the table.

Not sparing a glance at anyone, you're pushing past Jihoon in the direction of the restrooms in an instant. If it was any other time, you would have lingered outside waiting for Junhui to come back to you instead of barging inside the men's room. But this wasn't any other time - Junhui wasn't well and he clearly needed you with him - even explicitly telling Jihoon outright.

"Junnie" You're whispering when you finally push the door to the overly luxurious restroom, gaze falling on your boyfriend sitting against the heavy door of one of the stalls.

Jihoon and Minghao, who had followed after you hot on their heels, were kind enough to wait outside without tracking your steps - possibly knowing Junhui would want some time alone with you. You knew the two would be outside with ears turned your way anyway, ready to be of help if you needed.

"My baby, what's wrong?" Without even minding the condition of the outfit you're wearing, you kneel right in front of him on the shining marble of the floor.

Junhui cracks his eyes open as you bring up a hand to his flushed face. "Yn" He croaks, the scratch in his voice making you wince as you shuffle closer, stroking the warm skin of his cheeks. "It hurts. My head, my throat, I- I don't- I don't know what happened"

"Oh sweetheart, you should've told me. I was so worried" Junhui leans his face into your hand as you trace your fingers against his skin, reminding you of his kitty antics. One of his own hands comes up to shakily wrap around your wrist, keeping you close to him.

"I'm sorry, I didn't want to upset you" He whispers, eyes still drooping out of exhaustion. "Jihoonie said you were upset. I'm sorry"

"I wasn't upset at you, Jun. I was just worried" With a smile, you reassure him, not wanting to show your uneasiness with him in such a vulnerable condition. "Tell me how you feel, baby. Did you throw up?"

Junhui nods, eyes drooping and lips forming into an adorable pout.

"My poor baby" You can't help but pull your lips into a pout as well, cooing and bringing your other hand to cup his face between your cold palms.

As much as you hated the idea of Junhui getting sick on your watch, you secretly loved the clinginess that came with it like a plague. A sick Junhui meant an extra sulky Junhui, all cute pouts and teary eyes looking up at you until he'd successfully lured (lowkey coerced) you into giving him all your attention (doting on him 24/7 and doing things you wouldn't have agreed to do for a healthy Junhui)

After the initial dilemma of processing the fact that he's been bedridden, Junhui usually had the habit of pulling a drama queen card out of his pocket whenever he got sick. He would flat-out refuse to eat, take his medicine or sometimes even go see a doctor at all. Throwing small fits whenever you tried to argue with him about it, he would always guilt trip you into cuddling with him at the end of the day, unable to keep his limbs to himself.

But still, you adored the devious being he turned to whenever he was sick, mumbling in his sleep and nibbling on his food like a little cat as you orbit around him, pampering him like no tomorrow.

"Do you wanna go home, Jun? You feel really warm. Jihoon said you have a fever" You mumbled with a frown, hands feeling around for the warmth that radiated off his skin.

"Mmh. Jihoon's lying, I'm perfectly fine" Junhui opens his eyes and looks at you with a cheeky smile pulling on his lips. Yet, the small wince in his eyes is too noticeable to slip past your attention.

You pat his cheeks with a smile to match his. "Oh really, is that so? Well, I'm still taking you home and grounding you for the next two weeks so, we can't do anything about that"

Junhui exaggerates a whine at that, head rolling back against the door, dramatizing his dislike towards the idea of being the victim of your worries for the next couple of days. But you both know how much he loves to be the centre of your attention - being cared for and so so loved on like he deserved to be.

Junhui then silently lets you fuss over him, wiping his face with damp towels trying to soothe the flaring of warmth that's spreading through him.

Typically, Junhui would have been smiling his boxy smile, trying to lighten the mood by cracking his list of bad jokes as you fussed over him. So when he just sits silently with his head thrown back and eyes closed, you assume his condition might be a little more severe than usual. You can see the way he is still flushed, a sheen of sweat left behind as a result of the fever spreading through him. His hands are clammy where he keeps them in his lap, a clear sign of just how flimsy he's feeling now.

"My head hurts" He mumbles once you settle down in front of him again, immediately making you run a hand through his hair softly. You try to massage his head, fingers pressing to his temples knowing it usually helps with his migraines.

"We'll go home, okay?" You say. "You need to rest, Jun. You're still exhausted- you're gonna say no but your body needs lots of rest, baby. I knew something was wrong when you went to bed earlier, I just didn't think you'd get sick so soon"

Though you try your best to not let your voice waver, you know Junhui's picked up on the way your demeanour shrinks from the way your voice quietens down. Junhui, ever so observant and managing to see through all the cracks, opens his eyes to look over at you with a pinched frown.

He blindly reaches for your hand, lacing his fingers with yours, bringing them up to his lips. You watch as he turns your palm towards him and presses a kiss to the middle of your palm. He lets your hands rest against his face, cradling it close before he starts to speak.

"I should've told you" He sighs, nuzzling his nose against your palm. "I- I just didn't want to bother you, you know? You've been so busy with work and I just - I just didn't want to add on to it, yn. I've been away for so long and you've been nothing but looking after me all this time. I just wanted to stop being so...so dependent. I thought I could look after myself, not be a burden for once. I'm sorry"

You feel a part of your heartbreak as you listen to Junhui's words - spoken so solemnly as he explains how he simply wanted to stop being so reliant on you and take care of himself as a person. As if he could ever be a burden in your dictionary of love and as if he doesn't know that your world quite literally revolves around him at all times.

"Don't...don't say that" You start, making him pause on his words. "Don't ever- god, Jun. Don't ever say you're being a burden - to me, out of everyone"

Junhui's eyes are glazed over with a meek apologetic look as you try to form your words, too perplexed to even string your thoughts together. "You'll never be a burden to me, you know that? Never. If anything, I'm always fucking itching to know what's going on in this mind of yours. I always want to know when you're feeling bad or sick or just, anything. I always want to know how you're doing. I'm here to take care of you. Fever, no fever- I'm always going to look after you and coddle you, Jun"

"I love you so much, okay? I don't want you to think you're burdening me by telling me you have a fever darling. I always want to know. What if Jihoonie didn't come to check on you, hm? Would you have been able to go back out there by yourself and pretend everything's fine?" Junhui's face lowers as he lets your words wash over you.

Trying to keep your voice as comforting as possible, you lift his face to meet his eyes, a bit glazed over with a crumpled expression.

"Don't ever say sorry for wanting to be taken care of, Wen Junhui" Your words are soft, yet, sharp. "Not when you know you know I would run to the ends of the earth of you. Not when you know I know you would do the same for me if I was ever in your place"

"You deserve so much love and I won't ever sleep peacefully without knowing I've shown you how much I do"

Junhui stares at you, lips downturned and eyes suddenly glassy and shining under the harsh light of the room. You smile at him, tipping his head up a little, not wanting to let the tears fall past his waterline. He returns a watery smile with a small nod when you pass a pointed look, trying to convey just how serious your words were. He takes a shaky breath, blinking away the tears in his eyes before he looks back up at you.

"You're so good to me. Always"

"I love you" You lean forward before pressing a fleeting kiss to his temple and resting your lips against his warm skin - trying to ignore the fact that you're both still settled on the shiny floor of the bathroom.

"I love you too. Thank you"

The two of you are broken apart when a knock is heard through the door before it's pushed open and Minghao pokes his head through the gap. Jihoon shuffles in right behind Minghao, taking a moment to go a once over of their position on the floor before rolling his eyes/fondly.

"Gē, how are you?" Minghao kneels right next to you, a hand reaching up to rest against Junhui's forehead as the younger searches his face.

"I think I've caught a fever, Hao" Junhui, gazing at him with lax eyes, gives him a tight-lipped smile. "Puked my entire dinner down, my throat hurts now"

"Oh, Junnie" The younger lets his hand rest against the side of his face, thumb stroking the skin of Jun's ear comfortably. "You should've told yn, you idiot. What if it got worse, huh? You passed out or something and Jihoon hyung didn't come to check up on you? What then? Do you know how worried yn was? Stop being a dummy"

Junhui squints his eyes as Minghao scolds him, nodding his head along to the sharp words the younger throws at him with practised ease. Minghao jabs at his side for the effect yet the gentle and relieved look in his eyes under the faux rage isn't hard to notice.

"Yeah," Jihoon agrees from next to them. "You gave us quite the scare"

Junhui fixes his lips into another pout when Jihoon lightly smacks his head, looking down at him from where he's standing. The look on his face makes Jihoon sigh before he reaches to softly ruffle his hair with a carefully masked gleam of affection.

"We should get you home" Minghao's looking up at you when he says, still stroking Jun's skin, making you agree with a firm nod. Looking back at your boyfriend who opens his mouth to protest, he fixes him with one short and sharp look. "If you even try to come up with a fuck ass reason to why we should let you stay here when you look like utter shit and clearly needs to lie the fuck down, I'm gonna punch you in the eye"

"No hesitation, no remorse" Jihoon joins, fingers tightening in Junhui's hair as if to emphasize the seriousness of his threat. With an amusing helpless look in his eyes, Junhui looks over to you who's still kneeling in front of him, fiddling with his fingers on top of your lap.

"And I'll tell Seungcheol you're refusing to go to a doctor" You shrug and Junhui almost shudders. They all know how serious (and fucking terrifying) Seuncheol is when it comes to health.

Eventually - and by eventually, you mean after throwing a fit about that fact that he's being taken home and only settling down once you'd promised to let him eat breakfast for dinner for the next two nights - Junhui agrees to return home with you.

You try not to worry too much when he wobbles on his feet once Minghao and Jihoon pull him up from the floor. Understanding how he's not stable on his own, Junhui clings to the two as they steer him out of the restroom and promise to take him straight to the car.

"People are going to think I drank too much and passed out or something, oh god" You smile at the way Junhui's whine carries down the hallway away from you.

When you're back at the main area, quietly grabbing your bag and excusing yourself from everyone, some of the boys are quick to pull you aside. Once you've reassured them that yes, Jun is okay and no, he doesn't have a severe case of Diarrhea, Chan, it's a fever, you say your goodbyes to them. Jeonghan, who's close to tears and fretting like a mother hen, offers to walk you to your car yet, you're saved by Seungcheol who pulls the other to his side with an understanding smile.

"Hannie, yn will update us, don't worry" He assured the boy before turning towards you. "Take care of him, okay? I'll clear his schedule and let you know. Just- make sure he's okay, yn"

"Of course, always"

When you finally approach your car, you notice how Junhui is already settled in the passenger seat, eyes closed and breathing a little easier than before. You smile at the way Jihoon is stroking through his hair, trying to act cool about it when he notices you looking.

"I'll take him home now" You announce. "Thank you guys. Really, thank you so much. You already did so much"

"Anything for Jun" Jihoon mumbles. "He's been working hard"

Minghao moves to give you a small hug, rubbing your back soothingly. "You're okay to drive? We can get a driver for you if not"

"Yeah, I'm okay" You confirm. "I didn't have anything to drink"

"I know. But you're sure?" You know Minghao is asking if you're in a clear state of mind to handle a vehicle this deep into the night, knowing you've been a bit ruffled earlier. With a sure nod, you assure him.

"Get home safe, yn. Send me a text and make sure he's well rested, please"

With the promise of nursing Jun to your best capability, you ultimately get in the car before pulling away from the parking lot. Finally, you let out a breath, feeling the heaviness in your heart substituting while the task of bringing Junhui home and making sure he's taken care of properly for the night is pushed to the limelight of your priorities. You feel the exhaustion, all the nerves and the worries you spent on the boy you love, finally catching up to you as you drive through the city streets. Sparing a glance at the same boy now peacefully resting on the passenger seat next to you, skin lit up by the dim street lights outside, you feel your heart filling with a new wave of affection towards the only one who held your heart in his hands.

God, how you loved him.

When Junhui's fingers blindly reach across the console to lace with your own in the dark, you know his hand was the one thing you'd never allow yourself to let go of.

thank you.

#seventeen #seventeen x reader #seventeen imagines #seventeen fluff #seventeen angst #wen junhui #moon junhui #junhui imagines #wen junhui x reader #wen junhui fluff #wen junhui angst #wen junhui imagines #svt jun

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stormyjisung · 1 year

Text

"So when did you know it was love?"

Members. Skz hyung line (+hyunjin)

Synopsis. Asking them about the time when they'd fallen for you entirely

A/n. I woke up missing ji and decided to write something for skiz, it's been a long time since I've written for them anyway. I was watching a movie yesterday (more like analysing the poster) and the tagline said, 'so when do you know it's love?' And my writer brain went wee woo 🚨.

Bang chan

"so when did you know it was love?"

The question caught chan off guard, eyes shifting from his phone to your face, eyebrows quirked up in amusement, "where's this coming from?"

Rolling onto your stomach you groaned, "I don't know, chan, it just randomly popped up"

A bubble of laughter left his lips, "well to answer your question, I think it was our last semester at uni? I don't really remember the setting love, but I do remember that I was having a bad day. That paired with a raging downpour pushed me over the edge and I called you, crying, definitely not one of my best moments" chan paused to shake his head, "you helped calm me down and said, 'I'll be right there' and before I could ask what you meant you hung up"

"And before I knew it, you turned up at the library soaked to the bone. You handed me my umbrella and gave me the biggest, warmest hug someone had ever given me, despite the fact that you were freezing,

We'd already been dating for a few months, and you'd stolen my heart countless amount of times but it was at that moment I knew you'd stolen my heart from me forever"

Your cheeks felt hot, chan had always been a man of many words but to hear him voice out the moment he fell in love with you word by word felt nothing short of ethereal.

"But I do wonder, why did you turn up looking like a wet dog when you had an umbrella with you?"

Shrieks of embarrassment and laughter filled the atmosphere, love seeping into your bones even deeper.

Minho

"when did you know it was love?"

You saw minho's hand pause midway while petting dori, "is this one of those tiktok thingies where go around asking your partner if they'd love you if you were a worm?"

"What- no! I was genuinely curious" you whined as minho let dori down, placing a finger on his chin he pondered.

"Honestly?"

"Yeah!" You leaned forward excitedly.

"It was that time when you messed up a party's dress code and showed up wearing a chicken onesie."

"Fuck off" you replied, kicking a pillow at his face as he cackled, "No but how does one mess up that bad?"

Faux disappointment seeped into your features causing minho to break, "okay fine. But you dare not make fun of me or I'll set birds loose on you"

"You wouldn't dare" you gasped, "try me" Came his reply.

"It was late September, when we'd just been dating for a few months and when my self confidence was at an all time low. I remember you'd been begging me to show you one of my choreos until I finally agreed."

"Oh! I do remember it, and when the day arrived you made every excuse under the sun to not show me the choreography!"

"Yeah, because I've always been a little bit of a workaholic and a perfectionist and all the girls I've dated before would ask me to stop working or 'take a break',

nothing wrong with their concern but it just got tiring since I geninunely loved dancing, but then that day when I showed you my choreography, you sat there starry eyed; watching my moves like a hawk and your mouth left partially open as if me dancing was the single most enchanting thing you'd ever seen."

"It was!" you replied in a heartbeat, not missing the way his ears turned red instantaneously, "-anyway, then I told you I wanted to work some more on the choreography before I could come home and you said 'well, let's work together!' And started giving me all these ideas even when you had two left feet yourself"

You would've retorted with a 'hey!' Had it not been the soft gaze in his eyes. You knew minho loved you, it showed in the way he'd tone down his teasing once in a while and remind you that he still loved you.

But after this, you doubt any insecurity would ever cross your mind.

Changbin

"when did you know it was love, bin?"

Changbin almost dropped the plate he was holding, caught utterly off guard by a question he most certainly had the answer to yet didn't trust his words enough, "what do you mean, babe?"

"When did you realize that you were in love with me?"

"I fall for you every day." He deadpanned

"Yeah- but, like, when was the first time?" you asked flustered by his prompt reply.

"You're cute" He giggled, ruffling your hair as his eyes shone with admiration, "I think it was when we had our first serious disagreement? The first time the rose colored glasses shattered and we could see ourselves for who we truly were"

"You said something along the lines of, 'I'd understand if you left right now' and it was the first time in my twenty one years of life that I'd experienced true heartbreak. And it was also the moment when I realized no matter how many fights we had or will inevitably have in the future, I'd never want to walk out on you or us"

He ended his little monologue by peppering sweet butterfly kisses on your forehead, "I'll always love you" He whispered between the kisses.

The orange hues of the setting sun illuminated the two soul mates in that room who failed to realize that their souls were always meant to love each other, maybe the setting sun knew their story for it smiled as it set across the horizon.

Hyunjin

"when did you know it was love?" You asked hyunjin as he raked his fingers through your hair gently, a low hum escaping him

"When did I know I'd fallen for you entirely?" He confirmed to which you gently nodded your head, the serene atmosphere felt unreal with you laying on his chest and him alternating between patting your head and softly brushing your hair

"That's a question that doesn't really have a definite answer, love"

You allowed a beat of silence to pass by before you spoke up, "what do you mean?"

"Falling in love with you wasn't a spur of the moment... it was rather an entire journey.

From the moment we met to right now, it's been one hell of a ride. We've seen seasons, weather and people change. We've seen each other change for the better, I've see you through your good, your bad and your ugly" He paused to let his eyes roam all over your face as if memorizing every miniscule detail

"But despite all of that, I wanted you. I wanted you every waking moment of my life, I wanted you on the days you were too sad to even get up, I wanted you on the days you were cranky and moody, I wanted you on the days you'd blow up on me, I wanted you, I want you.

And when you want someone like that, above their flaws, imperfections and blemishes I think it's fair enough to declare it as love"

Hyunjin was always a romantic, never failing to make you feel loved and cherished and even after years of dating him, he still managed to take your breath away. He talked about loving you as if it was the most natural thing for him to do, as if loving you was easy.

And that terrified you because hyunjin was just as easy to fall for, if not more.

Reblog to show your appreciation !

I love how I post once a week but am chronically online, tee hee.

#🌙. nyx !#skz fanfic #skz imagines #stray kids fluff #skz x reader #skz changbin #skz bang chan #skz minho #skz hyunjin #skiz.archives.#stray kids imagines

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manawari · 1 year

Text

Hometown Girl

Byung-gyu loaded his last bag into the back of his truck and made his way to open the backseat door. He turned around to whistle at his dog. "Coco! Time to go!"

Coco, who was waiting at the porch of the house shared by the band, bounced up to his feet and went to the open door. His bushy tail swayed in the air as he mounted up before Byung-gyu closed the door and left the window open, knowing how his dog liked poking his tongue out at the wind.

"Have a nice trip, hyung!" Yoon-ho called from the doorframe, along with the rest of the guys. "Tell your grandmother we said hi!"

Byung-gyu chuckled. "Absolutely!"

"Don't forget to be careful with the people around. Remember, you're no longer the guy who makes acoustic covers." Jong-in said. "You're a guy who's widely known across the country."

"People, specifically your fans, will swarm you around until you lose the energy to go outside." Tae-gyu added.

Jin-woo huffed. "Byung-gyu knows what to do, guys. Don't make him nervous."

"Jin-woo's right," said Byung-gyu. "I know my neighborhood anyway. Sure, they might flock around me, but not in a way just like that those 'fangirls'." He shivered. "Anyways, I should get going, guys! Have fun while I'm gone!"

A chorus of different responses were heard. Byung-gyu walked to the other side and got onto the driver's seat. He pressed the keys into the ignition and the engines rumbled, he placed his foot on one of the pedals to pull out of the garage.

It was his first time going back to Gyeongsang since he began his debut as an idol. Byung-gyu called his grandmother whenever he was not busy, her laugh and tender voice always lifted his spirits, knowing that she was doing well even if he was not by her side. The thought of reuniting with the only family member he had left increased Byung-gyu's excitement.

He was coming home.

And a lot had changed since he chose to go to the idol path instead of becoming a history teacher — did he regret? Not really. And besides, Byung-gyu was able to send a portion of his money to his grandmother so she would have money to buy her needs. His love for his grandmother worth more than the finest of gems. She was the courage he could grab onto when he was nervous of going to the stage.

She'd be cheering for him.

She'd be giving him thumbs up and the brightest smile ever.

Besides his mom, his grandmother was the most important woman in his life.

Time passed, Byung-gyu had finally arrived in Gyeongsang. Coco started barking behind him, yet he had to calm him down by saying that they weren't in the exact town. But Byung-gyu knew he'd be as jubilant as his dog if he was not completely aware of his surroundings.

The journey to his hometown took another ten minutes and at last, Byung-gyu felt a whiplash of nostalgia even while he was still in the vehicle. The lush green trees blessing his vision, the distant sound of waves from the open windows, the open road which had not once experienced traffic, and the houses that stood since he was young.

So far, nobody had noticed him. But that was because he hadn't stepped out yet. Byung-gyu took a turn to the path that led to where his house was, driving a bit slower this time due to the road and the proximity to the other houses.

"Guys! It's Coco!"

"What? No way that's— it is Coco!"

"Hyung-nim is here!!"

. . . And his cover was blown.

Fortunately, it was the kids. Byung-gyu would have to deal with them later once he got settled down. He parked the vehicle on the open lot near the tree and pushed the door open to hop off. And just as he was about to open the door for his dog, a couple of bodies clashed with his body.

"Hyung-nim!"

"You're back, teacher!"

"I've watched your concerts on YouTube! You are AWESOME!"

"How does it feel to be famous, hyung-nim?"

Byung-gyu laughed and ruffled each of the children's hairs. "I'll hang out with you guys later. I have to see halmeoni first."

They nodded.

The moment Byung-gyu opened the gate, Coco sprinted inside and went to the porch to scratch the door. Sang-ah, Byung-gyu's seventy-nine year old grandmother, opened it and was greeted by the golden retriever, who was as lively as her grandson when it came to her.

Sang-ah had light grey hair, almost white, that was tied in a bun and wore a casual air of pants, a sweater that she made for herself, and a dark blue vest. She had been around since Byung-gyu's birth and took care of him whenever his parents were away for work, so there was no doubt that Byung-gyu was more attached to her than anyone else.

"Halmeoni!"

Sang-ah looked up and saw her grandson. "Byung— oh!"

Byung-gyu threw his arms around her before she could even finish her sentence. Sang-ah laughed. She knew when Byung-gyu hugged someone, it would be tight and full of warmth depending on how much he yearned to feel someone close to him.

"I missed you!"

"I missed you too, dear," smiled Sang-ah. "Look how far you've come! Back then, I only listened to you sing in your room, and now, you're singing in front of hundreds of people!"

Byung-gyu chuckled. He wiped a stray tear when he pulled away and stared at his grandmother's beautiful green eyes. "So much has happened, halmeoni. The guys told me to tell you they said hi."

"Aw, they're so sweet. You should bring them along next time. In that way, I can make them the crab stew you always liked."

"I'll try, but you know people can get toward famous people," shrugged Byung-gyu. "I wonder how our neighbors will react to me now."

The old lady huffed. "Don't fret about it! I have you know that I always show you off to my friends. Do you know what they say? They want to set you up with their granddaughters!"

He paled. "Wh— what?!"

"Just joking!" Sang-ah smacked her grandson's arm. She turned around to make her way to the kitchen. "Do you think your old lady will simply sell you off? Absolutely not!"

Byung-gyu shook his head playfully.

While Byung-gyu was bringing all of his clothes out to place them on his wardrobe, which had been kept spotless by his grandmother, along with the rest of his room. Sang-ah was in the kitchen preparing Byung-gyu's favorite crab stew with seaweed. And of course, Byung-gyu didn't come back empty handed — he bought gifts for Sang-ah.

Knowing that Sang-ah preferred things that were not too expensive, Byung-gyu got her a new flower vase, a couple of his photos that also included his friends since Sang-ah would like to display them in the house, and a headdress for whenever she wished to go out.

Lunch was spent wonderfully. Byung-gyu spilled all details of the new memories he had created to his grandmother, who laughed and mused at certain situations that involved with the ARISE members and the band's manager. Sang-ah always thought that her grandson had found himself in a group of professional and matured people, but after hearing those stories, Byung-gyu reckoned her views would change once he shared more.

Afterward, Byung-gyu helped his grandmother with the dishes before feeding his dog by the porch. He watched Coco wagged his tail as he devoured his own lunch, then he caught his grandmother stepping down with the vase he had gifted her. Sang-ah walked to her garden where she crouched down and picked a flower from a clay pot with her gloved hands, transferring it to the ceramic vase. Byung-gyu noticed that the flower was pink and had a couple of dark green leaves clinging on the stem. . . He hadn't seen that flower before, or perhaps Sang-ah must've bought it.

"This has been given by a nice family near our house," said Sang-ah after noticing her grandson's curious gaze. "Isn't it beautiful? And with the vase you got me, this flower has a new home!"

Byung-gyu smiled. Then, he caught a couple of eyes glancing through the gate.

"Halmeoni? Is hyung-nim around?"

Sang-ah turned to him. "Seems like they are looking for you, my dear."

Byung-gyu chuckled and stood up. "Watch Coco for a bit for me, halmeoni."

"Take all your time! I'm sure they missed you a lot."

Very. Byung-gyu opened the gate and he was greeted by a group of young kids whom he always saw running around the neighborhood. One of them was holding a ball, which insinuated that they were about to play something and they wished him to be included in their activity.

The children beamed and started to scramble out of the gate, passing the ball to one another as their laughter increased in the air. Byung-gyu followed shortly behind them until he noticed that the kids were about to pass by a certain house where he knew someone would yell at the youngsters for being too loud.

"Hey! Be careful!" He shouted. "We don't want to have the old couple yell at us since we're in front of their house, do we?"

"But they're no longer here, hyung-nim."

Byung-gyu blinked. "They passed away?"

"Idiot!" The kid hit the back of his friend's head. He turned to Byung-gyu. "They left when their children came to pick them up. A new family had now moved into that house two weeks ago."

"Oh?" Byung-gyu raised a brow. "I see."

Part of him wondered if that was the same family who had given his grandmother that flower. . .

Byung-gyu had always liked spending time with the kids in his neighborhood. He considered them as his friends too. Whenever he brought his guitar around, they would gather around him and listen to the sounds he made; he'd watch or play with them and help them with their homework. The kids even cried when they learned that he was leaving due to a new work.

But now that he was here, Byung-gyu would make sure to create new memories with them as well as with his grandmother.

The children played in a vacant lot near a gazebo. They were passing the ball with their feet and Byung-gyu stood somewhere to kick the ball when it headed toward him. His laughter mixed with theirs. While half of the children were competitive, he didn't choose to get involved with him, rather he focused on the joy of being back to his neighborhood.

. . . But that was until he had put too much strength on the ball that it struck across the place and went past the kids. Then, there was a young woman, who was walking by and not aware of the incoming ball to her direction. Unfortunately, it was too late. . . The ball had already hit her shoulder.

Oh shit! Byung-gyu winced. Meanwhile, the children ran toward the woman.

"Noona! Are you okay?"

"We are so sorry!"

"We are just playing and—"

To Byung-gyu's surprise, the woman let out a chuckle.

"It's fine! You kids don't have to apologize. Just try to be careful next time, okay?" She said. Her voice sounded sweet as cinnamon and honey.

Byung-gyu sprinted toward her. "Hey! Uh— it's technically my fault. I was with these kids and—"

His sentence came into an end when the woman met his gaze. Her eyes were blue like sapphires. She had long ginger hair that had a fringe right over her eyebrows. She was short, only reaching his chin, and looked quite younger than him. She wore a plain white shirt and a pair of jeans; a brown sling bag clung to her shoulder.

"You don't have to apologize, sir. It is merely an accident." She smiled.

"Aw! Noona is so kind!"

"Hey, Unnie! Did you know that he's—"

Byung-gyu quickly covered the kid's mouth and left the rest of her sentence muffled behind his palm. The woman hadn't recognized him, so he must maintain it that way. "Okay, that's enough, Rin-ah. Aren't you supposed to win this game?"

Rin-ah's face changed. She shook her head and Byung-gyu removed his hand from her mouth to let her speak. "Right! Let's get back to the game and win!" She exclaimed and punched her fists in the air.

Byung-gyu laughed. When he turned to the woman, she had already walked away. Part of him wondered who could she be, considering how close were the kids toward her. And part of him reckoned that he hadn't seen her around the neighborhood before too.

"That's Lee Ju-hee, hyung-nim!" Another kid, Gwi-nam, said. "She's new here in the neighborhood. We were so happy that the old couple was gone and we decided to befriend her!"

"I can tell," chuckled Byung-gyu.

Later that day, Byung-gyu said farewell to the group of children, who were reluctant to see him leave, to go further in the town. He was going to meet a certain someone at the café. Eun-seok, who was a long-time friend of his besides Yoon-ho and also the person who had been editing the lyric videos of his original songs; he was a digital editor and had used Byung-gyu's videos to practice his skills.

Byung-gyu had already messaged Eun-seok that he was back in town and wished to meet him at the café they used to frequently hang out in. His friend's response had been a bunch of keyboard spamming that Byung-gyu chose not to read as he was walking. He had pulled his hood over his head in attempt of a disguise — and so far, nobody had recognized him, which was good. Back in Seoul, he barely stepped into the daylight due to his popularity, and when he had gone to the convenience store with Jin-woo once, a bunch of people had surrounded them.

They had to be fully covered since then. No matter what was the temperature.

Sure, he had his own fans when he was that singer online. But that was different in his new and current career.

When he entered the coffee shop, Byung-gyu looked around until he spotted his friend across the place. Eun-seok was facing his laptop with a pair of glasses in his eyes as he fiddled on his keyboard, his light brown hair had reached past the shell of his ears and his hazel eyes were fixated on the screen in utter concentration.

Byung-gyu pulled his hood back and made his way toward his friend. "Eun-seok!"

Eun-seok looked up from his laptop and a wide smile broke through his face. He got up and welcomed Byung-gyu into his arms. The two squeezed each other tight before Eun-seok patted Byung-gyu's back to pull away.

"I'm so glad to see you again, my man!" Eun-seok said. "You don't know how my days had become weird when you aren't sending something for me to edit."

Byung-gyu laughed. "Well, the company has their own set of editors to do the job. But hey! Maybe some time later if I'm in the mood to compose an original song, I'll hit you up."

"Great! But first things first— tell me about your career! Is it amazing? Are the fans different than your old viewers? Oh! Have you met any celebrities?" Eun-seok bomboarded him with questions as he sat down.

Byung-gyu answered them after Eun-seok called for a waiter to order some coffee, which Byung-gyu had to pull his hood back up to prevent an unwanted attention. Eun-seok flashed him an odd look and was about to ask until realization kicked in his eyes and nodded.

"Damn, what a struggle, huh?"

Byung-gyu sighed. "It's an absolute pain."

"Min Byung-gyu?"

Urgh! Not now!

Byung-gyu tugged his hood lower and he suddenly felt a strong sense that someone was heading toward him. His heart raced at the sight of three shadows touching the edge of the table. He wanted to run away. But no, Eun-seok was here, and it would be such a disrespect if he left out of the blue and those girls might interrogate his poor friend.

"Excuse me? Sir?"

"Oh my God! You can't just refer an idol 'sir'!"

"I'm just making sure! What if he's not really Min Byung-gyu?"

Leave me alone, please!

"Isn't ARISE in a vacation right now?"

"Right! Woo Jin-chul had posted on his page about it."

A finger tapped his shoulder. "Hello?"

"Cough!" Byung-gyu began to force himself cough loudly and tried to speak in a different voice. "Cough! Cough! I'm so sick! I cannot breathe!"

As if finally getting grasp of the situation, Eun-seok got up and reached up to his best friend. "My— my sweet brother! Do you need medicine?? Should I call the hospital?" He turned to the girls. "Uh, can you leave us alone, ladies? My brother gets. . . An attack when he's surrounded with people he does not know."

The girls instantly left as Byung-gyu continued coughing while Eun-seok was rubbing his shoulder. He waited until the girls were completely out and let out a sigh, leaning back to his seat.

"Remember when I joked about you becoming famous and surrounded by fans? Yeah, I regret it now." He said.

Byung-gyu groaned. "I should've listened to Jong-in and Tae-gyu!"

All Eun-seok could do was pat him on the head.

Once the two men were finished with their coffee, Byung-gyu felt refreshed. Nobody else had approached him ever since the girls had left the place, so that meant he was confident that he could walk around without anyone recognizing him as one of the members of the leading band of the country. . .

. . . And he was wrong.

The three girls who had attempted to approach him earlier turned out to be waiting for him outside, so the moment Byung-gyu got out of the cafe, they squealed and pulled him into taking selfies with them. Byung-gyu was forced to smile throughout six photos until Eun-seok dragged him away. Since then, more people began to notice him, flocking him, asking him to sign autographs, asking him to take a selfie with them. . . Byung-gyu was in a disaster.

All he asked was a simple hang out with Eun-seok!

Sadly, he hadn't gotten to catch up with his friend since Eun-seok had to return to his work, much to Byung-gyu's dismay.

Later that evening, Byung-gyu was walking in his neighborhood, on his way to return to his house when his phone started ringing. It was a group call from his friends. He answered it and four faces appeared in the screen. Their backgrounds appeared different, which meant they had visited their family, except Jong-in — who remained in the hotel instead of seeing his father — and Yoon-ho — who hadn't left their shared house.

"What's up, hyung?"

"Hey!"

"How was your reunion with your grandma?

"You look like you're outside. I hope everything is going well for you, eh?"

Byung-gyu chuckled. "Hey, guys! Missing me already? Yeah. . . I should've been more careful."

"Ha! I was right!" Tae-gyu exclaimed. "So what did they do to you? Asked you for photos? Took selfies with you while you smile in pain?"

"You know the risks, Min. And judging what you're wearing right now? Yes, you'd be easily recognized." Jong-in said as matter-of-factly. "And I won't be surprised if pictures of you in Gyeongsang is in the internet."

"Idiot, stop scolding Byung-gyu. He's trying to live his best life!"

"I'm just reminding him to be careful, you big fat—"

"How's your grandma, Byung-gyu?" Jin-woo cut in. "Any something exciting happen?"

"Halmeoni's doing great! She quickly made me my favorite stew." Byung-gyu smiled. "The kids are happy to see me too as much as I am with theirs. And a new family had moved in the house that was previously owned by an old grumpy couple, so I guess that's good."

"Seems like you don't like that couple a lot."

"They always yell at the kids. Halmeoni probably hated them too. But nonetheless, the new neighbors seem nice." Byung-gyu said. Surely, if that lovely woman whom he had encountered turned out to be kind-hearted, then the rest of her family must've been the same.

"Ohhh~ who are they? Did they find out that a certain ARISE member lives in the neighborhood?" Tae-gyu smirked.

Byung-gyu shook his head. "Not exactly. Otherwise, they would've approached me by now."

Tae-gyu huffed. "Don't get too comfortable, my dear friend, because once you—"

Words faded when Byung-gyu saw something across him. It was a young woman who looked exactly like the one he had seen earlier. Orange hair, petite frame, and a white shirt — that was definitely Lee Ju-hee, whom the neighborhood kids had befriended when he was in Seoul.

His feet halted.

Byung-gyu spotted her place her hand through the bars to fiddle on the gate. And that was when their gazes met. Byung-gyu tugged the corner of his mouth into a smile, but Ju-hee turned away and opened the gate and made her way inside.

His smile fell into a frown.

"Byung-gyu? Earth to Byung-gyu!"

"I think the signal is breaking."

Realizing that he was in a middle of conversation, Byung-gyu shook his head and glanced to his screen. "Gotta call you guys back. I think I need some rest."

His band members bid incoherent farewells and the video call ended. Byung-gyu shoved his phone into his pocket and proceeded his walk to his house. Coco was already waiting in the porch, so the second he saw his owner, his tail wagged and greeted Byung-gyu by standing on his back feet to reach him up. Byung-gyu rubbed the back of his dog's ears in return and ushered him to get inside.

"Oh, you're back, sweetheart!" Sang-ah called from the living room, watching a show in the television. "How's your day went? Good? Did you meet your fans?"

Byung-gyu chuckled. "Something like that, halmeoni. It feels weird to be seen by a lot of people."

"That's what you get for being very talented, my grandson. After all, you went from having small to big just like those stars I see on the television."

"I guess you're right," said Byung-gyu. He was about to turn to his bedroom when he stopped in front of the door. "Uh, halmeoni? Do our new neighbors know that you have a famous grandson?"

"Hmm. . . I have not told them yet. Why?"

"Oh, nothing." With that, Byung-gyu opened the door and Coco made his way inside first before he did.

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The next day, Byung-gyu decided to bring his dog along to see the kids since they were already done with their morning walk. If the children were not running around in the neighborhood, then they were likely at the wooden gazebo. Back in Seoul, he barely had time to take long walks in the morning with his dog, most especially when he was busy with rehearsing and had to hide his identity from the public.

Being back to his hometown had never felt so nice. . .

Until he caught a scene with the children.

They were huddled around something and as Byung-gyu got near, he realized that someone was crying. It turned out to be Beru, a six-year-old boy who came from another country and had moved in the neighborhood three years ago. He had a scraped knee and was sobbing.

"What happened? Is he okay?" Byung-gyu asked in worry.

"He tripped over when we were playing tag, hyung-nim."

He nodded. "Okay. Now, listen, Beru—"

"Guys! Noona is here!" Gwi-nam shouted and joined his friends. Byung-gyu turned up and saw Ju-hee, who was rushing toward them.

"Is your friend alright? How hurt is he?" Ju-hee asked. The kids stepped aside to give way, so she crouched down in front of the injured Beru. She reached her hand up to wipe his tears. "It's okay, sweetie. I'm here now."

"Is— is it going to be painful, Ms. Lee?" Beru sniffled.

She smiled. "A little. But you can stay strong for me, right?"

Beru nodded.

Byung-gyu watched another scene unfold. Ju-hee took something from her sling bag and it was a couple of medical supplies, she began by cleaning the corners of the wound, causing Beru to wince. Byung-gyu placed his hand on the kid's shoulder to comfort him. Beru slowly stopped crying when Ju-hee plastered a band-aid over it, pressing it gently to keep it intact with the skin.

Beru still sniffled and drew his arm across his eyes to wipe away the remnants of his tears. Ju-hee reached down to her bag again and this time, she brought out a piece of candy to hand it to Beru.

The kid's eyes widened. Ju-hee gave him an encouraging nod. Meanwhile, Byung-gyu gave him a smile. "So? What do you say?"

Beru turned to the candy again and reluctantly took it. "Th— thank you, Ms. Lee."

"Your welcome," Ju-hee smiled. "Now go and play. Just be more careful, Beru."

"Yep! I promise!"

Huh, Beru had never promised someone that he won't get hurt.

Nonetheless, while the children went back to playing, Byung-gyu had unleashed Coco to let him join the kids. Then, he realized that it was just him and Ju-hee who were left on the spot. Ju-hee watched the children play with her eyes glistening tenderly just like the soft sunlight coming through the leaves of the tree above her, also bringing copper glow from her ginger hair, then a soft smile was curved on her thin lips.

She's pretty. A thought came to Byung-gyu.

He understood what made the children fond of her. When Beru got injured, one of the kids had gone to fetch Ju-hee because they knew she would rush to their aid as possible; she treated him nicely and gave him a reward in return. Ju-hee was kind-hearted.

"Is there something you want, mister?"

"Oh! Sorry, I just—" Byung-gyu raised an eyebrow. "Did you just call me mister?"

"Yeah. Why?"

"You know me, right? Don't tell me you do not." Byung-gyu said. "I mean, the whole country knows who I am because I'm part of ARISE — one of the two lead vocalists! So there's always going to be someone who notices me if I'm not being to careful—"

Ju-hee laughed. "Did I hurt your feelings just because I didn't treat you like your fans?"

"No, I just—" Byung-gyu looked away and rubbed the back of his neck. "I don't know. The fact that you called me mister bugged me, I guess?"

"I see. Now that must've been the reason why you rambled about your image." Ju-hee said. "And yes, I do know you, Min Byung-gyu. But it's not like I'm gonna treat you like some God if that is what you're thinking."

Byung-gyu huffed. "Then I should be grateful."

"Oh? So you don't like being surrounded and praised just like other famous people?"

"Not exactly. I didn't accept the offer just so I could get a lot of attention, but rather, I joined because of my passion." Byung-gyu shrugged. "And to be fair, it feels new to be treated this way. You're not screaming or squealing at me, Ms. Lee."

"I just thought I should treat you like an average person when I learned that you've become a hit star." The corner of Ju-hee's lips twitched. "I used to watch your acoustic covers, you know? When I was still studying for exams, I used your videos to help me focus and relax."

She used to listen to my old covers?! Byung-gyu was surprised. To think he'd actually meet someone who had been listening to him sing before he rose to fame. . . It felt quite flattering. Truly.

"Well. . . What about now? Did your opinions change now that I'm—" he shrugged his shoulders to insinuate the last unspoken word.

Ju-hee hummed. "You amused me. To think I'd witness you dance at the same time, it made me wonder if I am looking at the same person." She chuckled. "Nonetheless, you deserve to be seen by hundreds. ARISE sure is lucky to have you."

Byung-gyu laughed airily. "What a flatter, Ms. Lee."

"Call me Ju-hee," the ginger let out a grin. "You don't use honorifics around your fans, you know?"

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His fingers strung the strings of the guitar. A smooth rhythm wafted in the air, twirling and waltzing to the ears of the small audience that had gathered in the gazebo. Byung-gyu had his foot pressed on a chair to perch his instrument above his leg, he opened his mouth to begin singing in front of the kids who had occupied all the sitting areas in the wooden shelter. They stared at him in utter awe, absorbing the gentleness of his voice amid the stringing of his guitar.

The song was the acoustic version of one of ARISE's newest releases before their vacation. Byung-gyu was yet to release the version, but he decided to share it with the kids first.

As soon as the song came to an end, Byung-gyu proceeded to play his guitar to repeat the chorus. He knew how the youngsters liked the stringing sounds so much. A grin crept across his mouth at the enamored faces of the children until he reached the last note of the song.

His audience clapped and erupted into cheers.

"You're so amazing, hyung-nim!"

"You are the best singer I've ever known!"

"I want to go to your concerts one day!"

"Another song! Another song!"

Byung-gyu laughed. "You guys enjoyed it so much, huh? Who wants to hear another one?"

"Me!" They exclaimed simultaneously.

"Alright! Let's—" Byung-gyu paused when he caught something from the corner of his eye. It was Ju-hee, who carried a plastic bag in her hands. "Ju-hee!" He called.

Ju-hee's twin pools of blue met his dark ones. At first, she blinked. "Oh, hey?"

"Wanna join us?" He said. "I could use one more audience."

"Uhm. . . " Ju-hee turned to the children, who looked at her with pleading eyes. Her lips softly curled into a smile. "Okay."

Yes! Byung-gyu succeeded in his plan. So once Ju-hee sat on the corner, he moved his capo to a different spot in the neck and began stringing his guitar. His gaze landed on Ju-hee, whose eyes stretched at the first few notes. The song was one of his most viewed covers in his account. So obviously, Ju-hee might've listened to it.

Judging her reaction, he was correct.

The song was originally pop, but Byung-gyu made it smoother. He added more emotion to the lyrics since singing with his whole heart felt much better. He briefly glanced at Ju-hee, who had a smile on her face. Just seeing her reminded him of sunshine.

"How long are you going to be here?" Ju-hee asked. She and Byung-gyu were walking together after they decided to leave the children alone to play, thus having a moment for themselves as grown-ups.

"Two months. That's the longest vacation ARISE could get." Byung-gyu replied.

"Really? That feels quite short. You guys probably worked hard a lot to deliver those performances on stage." Ju-hee remarked. "How are you handling it?"

His mouth twitched into a grin. "Sometimes it's exhausting, but sometimes we just find the fun in our rehearsals. Namely, speeding our song twice and whoever falls loses. Jong-in is the one who never wins because of his body not handling too much steps — Yoon-ho dragged him to the gym once, Tae-gyu almost called the hospital."

"Wow! You guys are wild." Ju-hee chuckled. "What about you? What's your role?"

"I only cause trouble once or twice. I don't usually join them to the gym, but if I do, I just make a run in the treadmill." Byung-gyu shrugged. "Yoon-ho is the biggest gym junkie, Tae-gyu and Jin-woo come close."

"Tae-gyu used to be a tennis player, right? And I heard that Jin-woo used to be an athlete too."

"He was, but Jin-woo only tried it when he was a kid because he needed to get good grades. Tae-gyu still plays tennis, only as a hobby now though, and he wants to try archery for a change."

"I see," Ju-hee nodded. "Do you write the band's songs all the time?"

"Yeah, but occasionally, I had the guys help me with the verses. Jin-woo had even wrote his own song for his first single — which made me so proud." Byung-gyu wiped a nonexistent tear on the corner of his eye. He snickered at the eye roll Ju-hee had given him. "What? Is it wrong to be proud of my fellow members?"

"No. I just find it cute that you guys see each other as siblings." She said.

"Well, we are one happy family after all. And that includes the band's mother hen."

"Who's the mother hen?"

"You're up for a story then, Ms. Lee!"

Byung-gyu had grown more comfortable with Lee Ju-hee. He even couldn't believe that he was revealing a lot of things to her that no one else in the media knew. But Ju-hee did not give him the impression that she would tell other people, she listened and chattered along like she wasn't walking alongside a celebrity.

It felt like she was talking to a friend.

Byung-gyu liked that.

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"When are you gonna make a new song or a cover? My hands are itching to create a video out of it!"

Byung-gyu chuckled and held the both of his hands up. "Sorry, hyung. I challenged myself not to write songs during the whole vacation."

"Well, that just sucks," scoffed Eun-seok. Coco went to him with a stick between his teeth, so he took it and threw the stick to the distance. "But hey! Do you know that being friends with a celebrity is hard too? Yeah, my co-workers talked to me all of a sudden and a girl asked me out on a date."

"Congrats!"

"No, it's not! She clearly asked me out because I'm friends with you." Eun-seok said. "And then she'll just use me as a bridge to get close to you until you leave me in the shadows after—"

Byung-gyu smacked the back of his friend's head. "Quit overthinking. Do you think I will abandon you? Not in a million years. And besides, why would I date a girl who uses others? If I hadn't become a celebrity, I doubt I will get a date."

"What kind of girl who won't fall for a talented guy like you who plays guitar, sings, and loves his grandmother?"

"Call me high standards." Byung-gyu shrugged.

"High standards my ass!" Eun-seok rolled his eyes. He looked over and noticed that the dog hadn't returned yet. "Where's Coco? I'm sure I didn't throw the stick too far."

"Let's just look for him." Byung-gyu walked past Eun-seok and followed the trail his dog had gone to. Coco wasn't the one to get lost, but if he did, it might be because he got distracted by something.

And Byung-gyu had a bad feeling about it.

��He wasn't sure how short Coco's attention span had been after living in the city for too long. Given how his bandmates had been spoiling his dog behind his back, Byung-gyu had grown concerned over the idea of Coco getting lost.

Eventually, he and Eun-seok found the golden retriever.

Coco did get distracted. . . Particularly because Ju-hee was with him.

Coco wagged his tail as he leaned further on Ju-hee's touch. She scratched his fur and giggled when Coco licked her hand in return. The stick, on the other hand, was left unnoticed. Coco whined lovingly at her and laid on the ground with his belly exposed for her to rub.

"Dude, I think someone has stolen your dog."

"He's not stolen, you dummy," said Byung-gyu. "He saw a friend."

Eun-seok flashed him an odd look. "Eh?"

"Coco!" Byung-gyu called his dog as he approached the two. "There you are. I was wondering where you went!"

Ju-hee looked up to him with her blue eyes, shining just like her smile. "Byung-gyu! I was just coming back from the clinic when I found Coco. Though, it was more like he found me."

"You're working at the clinic?" Byung-gyu asked.

"Yeah. I just thought that I should start with something small before moving to an actual hospital."

"Well, that's great! I hope you'll be able to work in the hospital one day." Byung-gyu smiled. "Hmm. . . Dr. Lee? Or Dr. Ju-hee? Which sounds better?"

"Either," Ju-hee chuckled.

"Ahem!"

Byung-gyu turned around and realized Eun-seok was still there. "Oh! Eun-seok, this is Ju-hee." He turned to the ginger. "Ju-hee, that is Eun-seok. He's the one who edited my old videos."

Eun-seok waved at her.

Ju-hee nodded at the brunet and turned to the wagging golden retriever. "Your dad's here now. Go to him."

Coco whined and leaned up to flick his tongue at Ju-hee's chin before going to Byung-gyu.

"Your dog likes her a lot."

"Coco likes people in general, Eun-seok."

Eun-seok snickered.

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"Put it on the left! Yes, there we go!"

"Be careful! The contents might be fragile."

"No, no! Don't put that box on the crates. They have chemicals!"

"How about here?"

"That's fine."

"I can't believe we have an idol helping us around!"

Byung-gyu chuckled as he hauled another box from the truck. "Just because I'm famous doesn't mean I will have to stop helping you, Ms. Jung. Remember when you used to give me candies in return?"

The middle-aged woman laughed. "Of course! How can I forget that young boy who joins the delivery men after he gets home from school?" She said. "So, now what? Do you want candies after this?"

"Maybe later," Byung-gyu grinned.

When he placed the box on top of the others, he shook his arms on his sides to ease his muscles from carrying heavy objects. Byung-gyu preferred carrying boxes more than lifting weights in the gym. And at this, his bandmates believed that he didn't have as much muscles — which was partially true, but Byung-gyu still had a bit of muscular biceps that were always hidden under his hoodies.

Currently, Byung-gyu had taken off his jacket and rolled the sleeves of his shirt to his shoulders. Sweat glistened from his forehead down to his neck, also leaving small drenched marks on his light brown top. He brought his arm to his forehead to not only wipe the sweat, but also push his hair back, and released a quick loud sigh.

"Are you sure you can still do it, dear?"

"Hm? Of course, I can!" Byung-gyu grinned broadly. "The temperature happened to be so hot, you know?"

"My! If my daughter is here, she would be watching you the whole day." Ms. Jung chuckled. "She has a big crush on you, you know? If anything, would you be willing to date someone who's a fan of yours?"

Byung-gyu hummed. "That depends. But usually, I will have to refuse."

"Oh, so your type is a celebrity like you?"

"Not that either," he shrugged. He walked back to the truck to pick up the last box. "I prefer someone who's. . . Ordinary. Whether she's a fan or not, if I feel like she's the right person, then might as well go for the chance."

She smiled. "You have a great mindset, Byung-gyu."

Afterward, Byung-gyu sat on the bench outside the store, downing on the ice cold water Ms. Jung's husband had given him as gratitude for the help. The lady had also given him candies as promised. The store was located near his neighborhood, so he had no worries of people recognizing him or even snapping photos of him since his face was completely bare to the public.

Then, he caught a taxi pulling over several feet away from his spot. A woman got out of the front seat and pulled the door from the back, hauling out two heavy plastic bags with one hand and another two with the other. She placed them on the ground and took out some cents from her pocket to hand them to the driver.

Byung-gyu drank the last of his water and threw it at the trashcan. He grabbed his jacket from the edge of the bench and tied the sleeves around his waist as he took off toward the lady, who seemed to be struggling a little with the weight on her hands.

"Let me carry these for you," he said to her as he crouched down. The woman looked quite familiar and he presumed she must be living somewhere in the neighborhood.

"Oh, you don't have to—" she paused. "Min Byung-gyu?"

He shrugged. "As always."

"Heavens! I never thought I would encounter you in personal." She chuckled. "And— why are you all sweaty?"

"I just helped carry the boxes that belonged to that store," he jerked his head to the direction of the small convenience store. "Sorry for the messy appearance, ma'am."

"Oh, you don't have to apologize. I almost didn't recognize you."

"Thanks for the compliment!"

The woman laughed and playfully smacked his arm with her free hand. "Now that you're here, I might as well lead you to my house and make you something nice as a treat."

Byung-gyu followed the lady, who was now carrying only one plastic bag since he had already taken the other three which he believed would be too heavy to carry on her own. He got into a nice conversation with her. Unlike Mrs. Jung, the woman didn't mention a daughter of hers being a fan of him and attempt to set him up, rather she talked about nice topics that reminded Byung-gyu of his mom and grandmother.

Speaking of his mom. . . It made him miss her.

It had been almost a decade since he lost her, as well as his dad.

A few moments later, Byung-gyu noticed he was walking in a familiar pathway, like he was just heading home. He speculated that the woman lived somewhere close. Then, he realized that she turned out to live in the same house where the old couple had formally resided.

Wait. . . Could it be—

"Mom?" It was Ju-hee's voice.

Byung-gyu found himself facing Ju-hee, who was standing in the middle of the doorway. Her eyes were stretched in surprise.

"Look who's with me, Ju-hee!" The lady— no, Ju-hee's mother, said. "You two have already talked, right?"

"Y— yes. . . "

"She's a shy young lady," the woman whispered to him. "But she is incredibly sweet once you get to know her more."

Byung-gyu let out a chuckle. "I can already tell, ma'am."

"And sometimes, my daughter is also—"

"That's enough!" Ju-hee glared at the two. She left the doorway and walked to Byung-gyu, her face flushing as she held on the bag's handle. "Thank you so much for helping my mom, Byung-gyu!"

"It was nothing. I didn't even know that she's your mom in the first place." The corner of his mouth twitched.

"Byung-gyu! I'm gonna make you some iced tea, so you better come inside of this house!"

Ju-hee blinked. "What's going on?"

"Your mom invited me over when I went to help her," Byung-gyu shrugged.

" . . . "

Ju-hee's parents were both welcoming individuals. It even made Byung-gyu quite overwhelmed when the couple ushered him to take a seat. Meanwhile, Ju-hee was nowhere to be found, and Byung-gyu was too occupied to ask where she was. It made him wonder if they were naturally friendly to everyone. But he would be lying if he said that he didn't have a good time — Ju-hee's mother had given him iced tea and some cookies.

"Do you always come home here in every vacation?"

"Only if the vacation is one month or more, sir," replied Byung-gyu to Mr. Lee. "And sometimes, we take vacation somewhere else as a band."

"Well, that's a good thing that you folks are finding enjoyment that doesn't involve performing to the audience," the man nodded. "Look at you! You're way too handsome to be so stressed. When I was in your age, ladies still keep fawning over me."

Byung-gyu chuckled. "Uh. . . Thank you."

"You're sweating a little, son. Are you nervous?"

"What? No, sir. It's just that—"

"Got it!"

Byung-gyu turned his head and saw Ju-hee, who had a clean white cloth in her hand. He was about to open his mouth when he suddenly felt something soft on his forehead.

"It's bad if you leave your sweat on your skin for too long," said Ju-hee.

Byung-gyu felt his breath pausing. The proximity between them was short. He could see her sky blue eyes fixed in concentration. He considered pulling the collar of his shirt up to smell his odor, yet his hands had gone inert on the table.

And when he caught the towel moving to his neck, that was when he decided to act.

"I— uhm. . . " He stuttered. "I— I can do it. Thank you, Ju-hee."

When Ju-hee realized what she was doing, she flinched and the towel fell on his lap. "Oh my God! Sorry!"

Her father laughed on the other side of the table. "Ju-hee likes to look after people. It's her instinct. Although, I'm surprised that you called her by her first name, Byung-gyu."

"They have already met before, dear!" Ju-hee's mom shouted from the kitchen. "Why didn't you tell us that you're friends with Byung-gyu, Ju-hee?"

"It wasn't that completely important, mom."

"Are you saying that I'm not important?" Byung-gyu widened his eyes and leaned away in faux hurt. "I cannot believe you hurt me this way, Ms. Lee."

Ju-hee glowered down at him. "Shut it."

He laughed.

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It had been a few weeks since he was staying in Gyeongsang.

Byung-gyu created new memories with his grandmother, spent more time with Eun-seok and the kids, let his dog run around freely as much as he wanted, and most of all, hung out with Ju-hee too.

Since their houses were not far from each other, it was easy for Byung-gyu to see her around and invite her to hang out with him if she was not busy. He had gotten along well with her parents too, which was something Ju-hee would prevent from happening. And while she had already known Sang-ah, Ju-hee was still quite timid when entering the old woman's house, and luckily, Coco was there to drag her in by himself.

Ju-hee was as welcomed by Sang-ah as Byung-gyu was by her parents.

Byung-gyu began to show her the songs he had written and sang them to her with his guitar. He knew that Ju-hee would not share it with others, unlike a particular member in the band who had could not keep his hands to himself. Ju-hee's reactions were heartwarming. She'd tell her compliments once the song was over and was hoping that he would do a solo cover soon.

It was felt as though he was interacting with a fan. Except that Byung-gyu wasn't uncomfortable and he liked her company a lot. Besides Eun-seok, he never thought he would gain another friend who was just an average person.

Other times, he'd hang out with Ju-hee until sundown. And even when she was at his house, Byung-gyu would still take her home, only then to be greeted by her parents who were grinning at the other side of the gate. He laughed at Ju-hee's reaction.

She made him happy.

"Ju-hee's the sweetest, isn't she?" Sang-ah spoke when she was sitting on the couch and Byung-gyu was on the floor, playing with Coco. "She came here a month before you did. I even told her that I have a grandson whose heart is big just like hers." She let out a chuckle. "And the funny thing is, I can't help but feel I am witnessing your parents' love story again."

Byung-gyu looked up with an arched brow. "How so?"

Sure, he already knew how his parents met, but to have his grandmother include Ju-hee, it made him curious.

"When your dad was the first one to fall in love, he could not stay quiet around your grandfather and I after he realized his feelings," Sang-ah told him with a gentle smile. "The most amazing part is that they met and fell in love in the same neighborhood."

"I don't get it. . . " Byung-gyu said. "How does that have something to do between me and Ju-hee?"

"Oh, you'll find out soon enough, my boy. And I trust my instincts." Then, Sang-ah let out a grin. "Do you think you can fool this old lady, huh? I have taken care of you since you were a baby!"

Byung-gyu just playfully shook his head.

He believed that his grandmother must be pestering him to get a girlfriend and used Ju-hee to emphasize it. He knew how old people could get when it came to love lives. And besides, he was still young despite in his early twenties — he didn't have to hurry about dating, especially when he had a career to look after.

But little did he know, he should've had listened to his grandmother.

Byung-gyu was walking around the neighborhood, hoping to see the kids to spend time with them, but to his surprise, Ju-hee was there.

He raised his hand and was about to shout until he got the gist of the situation. Two girls were with her while the boys were running around and playing tag. Several flowers were scattered on the mat next to the girls' feet, who were fawning over the flower crowns they had created.

"You look so pretty, unnie!"

"Unnie! Try this one!"

Ju-hee bent down to let a little girl put a wreath on top of her head. She was clad in a pair of black leggings underneath her floral skirt and a yellow shoulderless blouse with puffy sleeves; with the white wreath on, her beauty radiated into something more.

. . . And Byung-gyu was probably blinded by it.

Afterward, the two girls, who had their own wreaths, took each of Ju-hee's hands and connected their hands together to form a circle. Laughter blossomed in the air as the little girls bounced on their feet while Ju-hee just watched them with the widest smile on her face.

Oh no. Came his first thought.

Perhaps his grandmother's intuition was right. Byung-gyu turned around and was to walk away when he heard someone call him.

"Hyung-nim!" Rin-ah beamed. "Come and take a look at unnie!"

Byung-gyu obliged and came face-to-face with Ju-hee. Her long orange hair swayed gracefully behind her waist. And with the flower crown on her head, it made him feel as though he was facing a spring goddess.

"Hey." Ju-hee smiled.

If it wasn't for his jacket, she would've seen the blush on his neck. Byung-gyu had to swallow to make sure he wouldn't lose his voice. "Uh. . . Hi?"

Awkward silence. . .

Knowing that he must do something, Byung-gyu spoke again. "You— you look like a goddess, Ju-hee! I have to go!"

He took off after that and didn't look back.

Eun-seok was the first person he went to. Unable to hold back his words, Byung-gyu rambled in front of Eun-seok without allowing him say a single word about him barging into his house in the middle of the day. Eun-seok ended up listening until he was done.

"I barely understand anything, but all I get is that Ju-hee is the reason why you're like this, correct?"

"Yes!"

" . . . " Eun-seok sighed. "Damn, I thought something bad happened. Anyways— why are you so freaked out about that?"

"Should I not be freaked out?" Byung-gyu said. "I mean, I've only known Ju-hee in less than two months and I got—" he counted his fingers. "Two weeks and four days left until my vacation is over!"

"Two weeks and four days left?!"

"I told you I won't stay here for a long time." Byung-gyu rolled his eyes. "But that's not the main point! I'm not sure if Ju-hee feels the same way, or if I will be able to admit to her, but do you think things will be rushed if I take the risk?"

"You're not even sure if you'll be coming to Seoul with a broken heart or a happy heart." Eun-seok deadpanned.

Byung-gyu sighed. "Okay, maybe I won't tell her yet. I can just cope with it since I'll be busy once ARISE is back on stage."

"Or you can deal with your feelings in a creative way. That'll keep you sane." Eun-seok shrugged. Then, he grinned. "So. . . Someone finally stole your heart, huh? Of all the girls going crazy over you, your heart chooses a sweet girl like Ju-hee."

Byung-gyu huffed. "Well, at least I don't simply jump into a relationship." There was another moment of silence until he spoke again, only to send a warning gaze at Eun-seok. "You better not tell anyone about this."

Eun-seok snickered. "Well, this should be—"

"I'm firing you as my editor."

"Okay, fine! I won't tell anyone."

Two weeks and four days had finally come to an end. Sang-ah had become emotional while she watched her grandson pack his things into his bag. Byung-gyu had to pause and comfort her, rubbing her back, then told her that he would return on his next vacation. He too was emotional, yet held his tears back.

The kids had come to see him for one last time. Some didn't want to see him leave while the others were excited to see him again. Byung-gyu ruffled each of their heads before he loaded his bags into the back of his truck. Coco was already in the inside, poking his head through the open window. Eun-seok, who had spent the night in his house, stood next to Sang-ah, comforting the old woman.

"We'll be waiting for your next spotlight, Byung-gyu!" Eun-seok said.

"Thanks, man!" Byung-gyu smiled.

As everyone waited for him to mount on the driver's seat, Byung-gyu found himself standing still next to the door. It seemed that someone was missing. The kids, his grandmother, and Eun-seok were there, but not her. Byung-gyu wondered if she was on her shift and that was why she couldn't meet him in his departure.

"Are you waiting for someone?"

It took a brief moment for Byung-gyu to respond. "Well. . . "

"Byung-gyu!"

And there she was.

Ju-hee ran toward him, panting. Her hair had grown quite messy as if she had rushed from the clinic to the neighborhood. Byung-gyu stared at her wide-eyed as she straightened her posture and shook her head.

"I, uh. . . I can't risk seeing you leave without saying goodbye." She said.

Eun-seok snorted, but Sang-ah smacked him in the head. Byung-gyu's lips curled into a smile, his heart fluttering. He couldn't believe that Ju-hee had ran all the way to see him. . .

"Thank you. I'll— see you next time, Ju-hee." He told her.

"Good luck with your upcoming songs, Byung-gyu. The whole band, I mean." She smiled. "And don't worry, I will check on your grandmother while you're gone."

Part of him wanted to hug her. But then, Sang-ah and Eun-seok might get the wrong idea, so Byung-gyu resisted the urge and smiled at her before he opened the door and got into the driver's seat.

They bid farewell to him, though Byung-gyu found himself paying more attention to Ju-hee through the sideview mirror. He turned on the keys on the ignition and pulled out of the driveway. Vacation was over, it was back to spending his time at the recording studio.

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"Welcome back, hyung!" Tae-gyu greeted him when Byung-gyu had stepped inside of their shared house. Coco quickly dashed toward Yoon-ho, who happily greeted the dog and began to rub his furry belly. "Judging by your face, it seems like you had a great time."

"The greatest." He chuckled.

"Now that everyone here is complete," Jin-chul began. "You guys know what this means, right? The vacation is over, ARISE releases new songs. However, feel free to do whatever you want while Byung-gyu is writing songs or doing the final revisions."

"Uhm, actually—" Byung-gyu brought his backpack down and pulled out his notebook to flip it open. He turned over a couple of pages before he handed it to Jin-chul. "I have already written one when I was back in Gyeongsang."

Curious, Jin-chul took the notebook and began to read the lyrics. Byung-gyu waited in anticipation while the rest stared at their manager. Then, Jin-chul's eyes widened. "Wow. . . "

"What is it, Mr. Woo?"

"Do the lyrics finally contain swear words?"

"Are we gonna low-key insult people in the song?"

"Tell us already!"

"Seems like you guys will be singing something different," Jin-chul let out a grin. "After having a break for two months, ARISE will surprise the viewers with their very first love song!"

"WHAT?!"

Byung-gyu rubbed the back of his neck. He knew that everyone would be shocked. "Yeah. . . "

He might get questioned after the meeting, but he was prepared for his answers anyway, whether it would end up with him lying or not. Byung-gyu chose to keep the real truth a secret. And to think, he had actually written a song for somebody — a romance song to be precise, but if he kept these feelings buried in his heart, it might push his sanity on the edge.

It was better to release his feelings through words while not mentioning the name.

Sooner or later, he would be singing to hundreds of people. But little did they know, he was actually singing to one person. And little did that one person know, she was hearing all of the emotions she had made him feel within those two months.

Ju-hee had managed to linger in his mind like the most beautiful song he had ever heard. Her kind soul alone had made his heart race. Byung-gyu had many words to describe her smiles and laughs in a sheet of paper until he came up with a song.

She became his new favorite inspiration.

Byung-gyu might be singing to the whole country, but to him, he was just singing to the girl from his hometown.

#jinhae next! (which will be the last fic for this au at this moment before i move to another fic)#solo leveling #solo leveling boyband au: arise #min byung gyu #lee ju hee #minlee #sl fics by lua

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victorbutnotreally · 4 months

Text

Panic Attack - Seo Changbin x Male Reader

A/N : What a creative title, amirite?

Genre: hurt/comfort trigger warnings ⚠️: destructive thoughts, mentions of blood, detailed panic attack, stress, punching a wall

The papers were scattered over the desk, and the tired young man buried his face in his hands. The dimly lit room illuminated only by the table lamp smelled of coffee. That's what was keeping the boy going, at this rate.

Focus Mn...it's not that hard, just write the damn song! Why can't you get anything right?! It's just a song, and look at you, crying like a baby! Do you think Changbin is like this?! No!! He gets things done. And don't even get me started on Chan..he'd have finished the whole album by now.

You're pathetic. You don't deserve to be in this group. How about you just leave and stop holding them back?! They probably won't even notice.

His thoughts criticized him more than haters ever could. He hated himself more. The word 'pathetic' resonated in his head, repeating over and over again like the lyrics of a poorly written song.

Why did you choose this profession when you're clearly not fit for it?

Mn's breath picked up. He wanted to get up and run, but he couldn't. He was frozen in place. Stuck in the studio chair, overlooking the pile of papers he had thrown away. Tears threatened to fall, but to some miracle, he kept them at bay. He wanted to scream...but he was frozen. His fist curled, crumpling a piece of paper. He felt like the air from the room was being sucked away like in a science experiment. But he knew it was no experiment, just his cruel, cruel brain.

He started hyperventilating, sweating...the tears which he so painstakingly kept in were spilling out as he sobbed. He finally felt like he could move his body, so he curled up, wishing he'd sink into the floor of the messy studio. His hands went to his hair, gripping it, as if that would get more air into his lungs. His breaths started coming out in dry heaves. His fists clenched yet again as he began punching the wall next to him, trying to ease this feeling. His knuckles bled, but he couldn't care less. His phone was too far away for him to grab and call someone.

"H-Hyung-ah...", he croaked out, wishing someone was there. He wanted his thoughts to go away. He wanted to be held, to be comforted by the sweet voice of his boyfriend. He didn't care who came in at this moment, he needed someone. He inhaled sharply and scrambled up to grab a drink of water sitting at his desk with his shivering hands. He slowly sips the water, trying to take deep breaths before bursting into sobs yet again, coughing as the water didn't go down the right path.

"Jagiya? You there?"

Changbin's voice made his vision clear again. But he couldn't respond, so he prayed that Changbin would hear his heavy breaths and come in. He did just that, he opened the door and stepped in, seeing the mess that the studio was...seeing the mess his boyfriend was. He crouched down next to him and wrapped Mn in his arms, gently stroking his back as he tried to keep his voice soft yet stern.

"Deep breaths, love...deep breaths."

Mn's eyes shone with gratitude and a sliver of relief. He did as he was told, taking shaky yet deep breaths.

"Just like that, jagi...focus on me, okay? Can you do that, sweetheart?"

Mn nodded as he took deep breaths. His breathing was getting exponentially better as he felt the suffocating feeling slowly fade away as he was now in the arms of his lover. Mn rested his head against Changbin's chest and feebly wrapped his arms around him, now calming down significantly.

"T-Thank you..."

"Of course, jagi."

Changbin caressed the younger boy's head and planted a soft kiss on his forehead.

"Are you alright now?"

"Mhm.."

"I came here to call you for dinner."

"What do we have?", he asked, his lips curving into a smile at the mention of food.

"Bibimbap"

Mn's eyes lit up. Though he was still a bit shaken up, he felt safe and loved. He felt comfortable. So he leaned in and kissed his boyfriend. Changbin smiled softly and returned the sweet kiss, wrapping his arms around Mn's tired body. After they pulled away, he put his forehead against the other boy's.

"I love you, Mnie"

"Love you too, hyung-ah.."

#stray kids x male reader #seo changbin x male reader #seo changbin x male reader angst #seo changbin x male reader fluff #seo changbin x male reader hurt comfort #seo changbin x male reader comfort #there isn't enough binnie fics and i will riot

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cookiewrites · 8 months

Text

bang chan with a trans masc boyfriend

please enjoy these sfw/nsfw thoughts about bang chan, featuring my gender crisis. these are based on my experiences/hopes, and may not match every trans-masc person's - and that's okay!

wc: 1k

cw: bang chan x trans masc/afab! reader, mentions of dysphoria (various forms) and transition, no transphobia, brief mention of misgendering (no one actually misgenders reader), name for reader (baby, boy, boyfriend, pretty boy)

sfw

i have no doubt in my mind that chan would accept you being trans - whether you came out before you met him or whilst dating him. but let's talk coming out; he wouldn't have a learning curve, there'd be no slip ups or small mistakes. it would be an instant shift, and he'd make sure it would be the same with the kids. even if you weren't ready to tell them straight up, he'd let them all know that you were trying more masculine things and they'd just follow his lead.

he'd let you borrow all his clothes, of course. not even in the possessive my boyfriend is wearing my clothes way although yes that as well but so you can try out different styles and have access to a full wardrobe of masculine clothes as you built up your own. tbh i think you'd end up sharing a wardrobe with him from then on, it's your joint wardrobe, easy as that. he'd instantly turn compliments from beautiful to handsome, or whatever would make you comfortable. suddenly you're his prince. sometimes you'd forget you were ever not out to him.

telling him for the first time was hard, you couldn't stop crying and you were so scared, hiccupping over words and telling him over and over that it was okay if it stopped him loving you and how sorry you were and- 'you know i love you, right? and i love that i have a boyfriend now, if that's the term you're most comfortable with. either way, baby, 'm going nowhere, and i'm so so proud of you for telling me.'. he'd hug you close, too, squeezing you tight as you calm down, reminding you over and over how much he loves you as you are.

you'd expect at least a discussion and questions, and maybe him to need some time and maybe take a break and maybe break up with you and maybe- 'god i was so worried you were going to leave me, baby boy, i'm so glad this is all that's been wrong'. he's so happy that you're not going anywhere he can't stop smiling. yes he has a boyfriend, and yes it's a change but you're still his! before you really have time to grasp what has happened he's covering you with small kisses and reminding you how much he loves you.

if someone were to misgender you he'd be quick to correct them, never making a big deal out of it, just interjecting with the right pronouns or terms. if it was one of the kids he'd pull them aside later and remind them to try harder - not that they'd need it, he taught them all better than that and they'd be so happy to have another guy the group, for some of them another hyung.

he already knew a bit about being trans, but he went out of his way to research everything he could, and the ways he could support. you'd often stumble across open tabs when borrowing his laptop or visiting him in the studio. the consideration to not expect you to do all the emotional labor of explaining things the internet could easily tell him. he'd look into chest binding and medical transition in case you ever wanted to, he looked up ways to help dysphoria so you wouldn't have to teach him. he wanted everything to be as easy for you as possible.

would 100% help you with your dysphoria by almost playing dumb to what's making you dysphoric. like he wouldn't even acknowledge your chest being anything but a chest, changbin has a bigger chest, so do you, it's the same. he's not tall, and he's as much of a man as you are. dysphoria where? dysphoria what? you're just as masculine as the rest of them.

'they're just jealous i have the prettiest boyfriend' he'd whisper to you when the kids would tease you both for being so loved up. every time he says that word is makes your heart skip - he says it with so much love.

nsfw

additional cw: mentions of chan bottoming, reader receiving oral sex, reader's parts referred to with the term dick, mentions of chan giving a blowjob, praise/dirty talk

i think chan could have a relationship without sex, he would never expect or push a partner and it is as fulfilling with or without for him. that being said, sex is something chan loves; the feeling of closeness, and trust, and love. the way he loves making a partner feel good, and loved, and cared for. he is such a soft dom, and just wants to make who he is with feel good.

so when he put together that your reluctance to have sex may come from your dysphoria he starts helping you over that; and make adaptions to intimacy to make you the most comfortable. don't want to take your shirt off or wear a binder? absolutely fine, let's make sure you're safe but you never have to be naked around me. don't want penetration? amazing, chan loves playing with you in whatever way makes you feel good. want to top him? oh please, he'll be good for you and really loves whatever toy you want to pick. want him to refer to your parts with masculine names? 'god your dick is perfect baby, fuck, it's so pretty'

he's so into you that he will do anything. there was one time he gave your strap a hell of a blowjob, just because you'd mentioned in passing how frustrating it was not getting to see him like that. even the way he does go down on you changes, with or without going on t, chan gives you head instead of eats you out - there's this masculinity in the way he treats your body.

the praise during sex is always incredible, and we are all in agreement that chan is talkative during sex. he doesn't always expect a reply but simply loves telling you how incredible you are. it's through this that you find just how good it is to be with someone to truly sees what you are;

'oh pretty boy, god you're so good for me'

'f-fuck you're so deep baby, so b-big, fuck'

'i don't think i'll ever get over this dick of yours baby boy, fuck, it's just perfect'

#skz x reader #stray kids #stray kids smut #stray kids drabble #skz smut #bang chan #skz chan #skz imagines #stray kids imagine #stray kids chan #chan smut #bang chan x reader #bang chan smut

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dudadragneel · 7 months

Note

Hey Duda!

I wanted to get your thoughts on something. What if Chan got sympathy sick? Like he could deal with the kids throwing up, but eventually he would feel nauseous too and have to get one of the others to take over while he took a breather (or actually threw up if it got too much)

And what are your thoughts on Seungmin getting carsick every once in a while? Like sometimes he’ll be sat in the back and it’ll hit him out of nowhere so they have to try and pull over before he’s sick everywhere. Or maybe it just makes him queasy and burpy, which is worse in my opinion!

Let me know 😊 -🍋

Hello, dear 🍋!

Hhmmm....

I can see him in a situation where a few of the boys are sick and they are split into two dorms and he has to keep coming and going to make sure everyone's taken care of. Eventually he gets stressed over the fact that more than one member is sick and that he can't be at two places at the same time so he could be by everyone's side. As he gets stressed, he grows anxious and starts to question his leadership, so his mind starts spiraling. He feels all of that building up in his stomach, a bubbly and heavy sensation lurking around. He tries his best to hide and deal with it, because the boys need him by their side. However, the feeling just escalates and he can't hold it in anymore. He can feel liquid coming up his chest, so he just tries to get Minho to take care of the kids while he uses the excuse of going to the other dorm to get some more medicine. ..

- Minho-ya, can you look out for the kids for a minute? I'll get more medicine at the other dorm.

He said trying to sound as normal as he could, given the fact that whatever he ate before, was almost back at his mouth.

- Sure, Hyung.

Minho said, but he noticed something was wrong, but he deemed it best to not question. He knew Chan was stressed over the situation and he'd hate to worry one of his dongsaengs.

When he got to the other dorm, only Jeongin was there, he gave a stupid excuse and went straight to the bathroom, leaving the poor young boy confused.

As he got to the bathroom, he went straight to the sink and grabbed the edges to steady himself. He looked in the mirror and tried to control his breathing. He took long deep breaths and exhaled as long as he could to try to calm himself down. But it was pointless.

He was too worried about the kids, his mind kept going places he didn't like. He kept thinking it was his fault the kids got sick, that he didn't pay enough attention to them. And now, for the cherry on top, he felt sick and most probably Minho and Jeongin noticed it and got worried about him. The last thing he wanted was to worry the boys with his problems. He should be the one worrying about them, he was the leader.

His thoughts kept racing inside his head and his stomach reacted to that turmoil in his mind. The nausea grew even stronger than before. He squeezed his eyes shut and dropped his head trying his best to ignore what he was feeling. He took another deep breathe but it was to no avail.

A sudden gag sent everything he had eaten up and he couldn't control it this time. He opened his mouth and brown liquid gushed out of him soiling the sink. He was quick to turn on the tap so it wouldn't clog the drain before another stream came out followed by a cough and a gag that brought a little more up.

After that, he raised his head and took a look in the mirror. Thankfully, his complexion didn't look that bad, apart from the obvious red lips from the strain. He wasn't feeling nauseous anymore, he just spat out and then rinsed his mouth.

He took deep breaths again and took his time to make sure he was feeling alright before leaving the bathroom.

Getting out he was met with a rather worried Jeongin.

- Hyung? Are you okay?

- Yes. I'm sorry for worrying you.

- I heard you in there...

- I'm sorry, Jeongin-ah. I'm okay. I was just overwhelmed. And you?

- I'm okay hyung.

- Great! I'll need your help with the others.

-What do you need me to do?

-Take some of the medicine from the cabinet to them for me...

That was all Chan managed to say before going pale and feeling a cold shiver down his spine.

Hyung?

Jeongin said placing a hand on his hyung's shoulder and feeling him shudder under his touch and lurch forward. Chan immediately entered the bathroom again with Jeongin still supporting him as he bent over the sink as another wave of vomit mixed with bile escaped his lips, Jeongin rubbing his back throughout.

Once he was done, he was feeling rather drained, maybe because of the effort he put into taking care of all the sick kids. Jeongin guided him to lie down on the couch. Chan put his arm over his eyes and let out a long tired sigh.

Thanks, Jeongin-ah...I'm sorry... I just need a moment...

Don't worry, hyung. Just rest.

Jeongin said leaving the dorm to take the medication to the others while Chan lay on the couch and immediately fell asleep. He had done everything he could and now he needed some rest.

I couldn't really think much about Seungmin being carsick, I'm reaelly sorry 😥

💜

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qetalos · 1 year

Text

WILLOW | 정원

p: idol!Jungwon x non idol!gn reader g: fluff

warnings! fear of being seen or getting caught (?)

note: this is inspired by the song willow by Taylor Swift<3 (also thought abt this while showering when willow played in my phone lmfao) enjoyy

Dating someone who was an idol wasn't something easy and we'd always have to be careful to not get caught, because people could end everything so easily that didn't let us relax for a moment if we decided to go out to the convenience store.

I wasn't an idol myself but just a student, already graduated from high school and the person who I got involved with being an idol was my boyfriend. Yang Jungwon was his name, is his name and I'm glad to be able to call him my boyfriend; because he's a really nice person himself. We met some time ago but that doesn't matter, because no matter the ways we ended up together.

Knowing Jungwon as a really straight and responsible person, I couldn't believe how he asked me to be his girlfriend, knowing how hard it was for him to date someone in the industry he was in. He said he'd take any risks to be with me even if he knew he could get fired for doing so, and I couldn't contradict him because it would've been useless at this time, also because I'm in love with him too. Our relationship is worth the risk. Jungwon was chill about going out together, always being careful of course, but I couldn't say the same about myself as I'd get scared of someone catching us and ruining Jungwon's career. I have to admit that sometimes I was just overthinking about the what if's but Jungwon is always there to bring me back to earth and calm me down.

"Which one do you want? Jake hyung told me this one's really good" Jungwon pointed the chocolate ice cream inside the refrigerator, I was struggling in choosing an ice cream because all of them looked good "Mhm.. okay I'll get that one" I said before grabbing the ice cream Jungwon told me Jake had recommended him, I was going to give it a try. We went to pay for everything we had grabbed and soon we were walking back home, hand in hand. I couldn't help but turn around or look for someone around when we were walking, making Jungwon confused by my sudden behavior "Is something wrong?" He asked as we walked "No no" I said trying to convince him, but I knew I couldn't because we knew each other really well "Tell me what is it, is something on?" Jungwon asked me again, the only difference that this time he stopped walking and looked at me "I don't want someone to see you walking around with me... you know if someone sees us and then takes pictures and then posts them you'll-" "Hey hey... it's okay, no one will see us because it's almost 2 am and I don't think someone would be around with a camera wanting to take pictures, would they?" He asked me with a tinge of playfulness in the end to try to calm me down, maybe that was what I needed, some reassurance and his silly jokes "Okay~" I said smiling as we started walking again but before I could hold his hand, he started to run away making me go behind him "Hey!" I shouted as I followed him until he slowed down and started walking normally again. He wrapped his arm around my shoulder and I looked up at him "Why did you run away?" "I don't know but it was funny seeing how you tried to catch up" Jungwon said and I chuckled shaking my head softly at his actions. Then I realized that he had his arm around my shoulder instead of holding my hand, looking up with a pout I heard him chuckle as if he already knew why I was looking him like that, maybe he did know "Why? Do you want me to hold your hand again?" He asked me and I nodded almost instantly, cringing at the way I'd agree at whatever Jungwon would say or ask. "Okay, whatever you say~" I heard him say before grabbing my hand and intertwining his fingers with mine as we walked together with slow steps because we didn't have a reason to rush anything, we were together and that was enough for the both of us.

"Didn't you want to watch this one? Last week you told me you were looking forward to do so" Jungwon asked me as we sat together on our bed, full of snacks as we decided to have a movie night "Ah yes! I totally forgot about that, let's watch it!" I said excitedly, getting comfortable as I opened a pack of chips and started to eat while Jungwon played the movie on the tv. I don't know if I was tired or what but I ended up falling asleep after watching half of the movie, maybe it was because I was all cuddled up next to Jungwon as he'd rub circles in my back as we watched the movie. Or maybe because the movie turned out to be more boring than I had expected making me fall asleep without even finishing it.

I felt movement behind me before the mattress sank and making me recognize that it was Jungwon who was moving behind me. Before I could turn around, I felt his arms wrapping around me while pulling me to feel his chest behind my back. Trying to wash my sleepiness away, I turned around and saw Jungwon still awake looking down at me "Did I wake you up?" He asked me softly, bringing me closer to him "Yes.." I said, chuckling at my own words and before he could apologize, I talked "But it's okay, don't worry... I fell asleep while we were watching the movie, right?" I asked, seeing how Jungwon's eyes were turning into half crescents as his smile was growing too; remembering the moment I had fallen asleep "Yes.. you fell asleep but to be honest, the movie was a bit boring" he said and I laughed softly "It was, but you weren't helping either.." I smiled as I said this, referring to the way he was almost lulling me to sleep as we sat together watching the tv "I know... but you know it's already a habit of mine already~" he said, chuckling softly and I swore I wanted to keep this moment forever with me; his smile, the sound of his chuckle and the way he was holding me right now.

I smiled before hugging him closer and leaning my face in his neck, feeling how he kissed my head "I love you, rest well my love" I heard him whisper softly in my ear, careful to not talk loudly "I love you too, won.. good night" I said, already falling asleep in his arms. Jungwon whispered some more things but I couldn't understand what he said, maybe I'd ask him tomorrow...

💌゜・。。

thank you for reading!

-🏷️

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other-shades-of-sapphire · 2 months

Text

Proving mode – I.N

Jeongin x girlfriend indie-jazz singer-songwriter Jasmine, circa December 2022

Of Jeongin's never-ending desire to prove himself, until a certain someone told him not to.

Inspired by this exceptional MAMA performance in which Jeongin nearly passed out at the end.

"Really, noona," Jeongin said for the umpteenth time since he got off the stage and was rushed to one of the back rooms with a bed and a sofa in it. "I'm fine, really."

"Really, Jeongin," Jasmine mimicked his tone, hands casually but firmly parked on his shoulders to keep him from getting off the sofa. "You nearly fainted just now. Sit down for a little more, or I'll drag you to that bed and chain you to it."

"Sounds a lot more like a promise rather than a threat."

Jasmine laughed, her big round eyes turning into crescents. "Maybe it is a promise."

One he might insist on collecting too, Jeongin thought, if it wasn't for the fact that anyone – including any one of his nosy hyungs – could barge in at any time. "Let's circle back to that later, then."

Her laugh started to fade, replaced by a sad smile. "Jeongin, you're already doing so well, you know?"

He narrowed his eyes at her. "Where is this going?"

"You were pushing yourself too hard back there, ppang."

"It's adrenaline, noona."

"I know it's adrenaline, but I think you knew it too back there. You're relying on it to give you the boost of energy you knew you didn't have, not with the rapid travels and your countless other agendas beforehand."

"Is it so wrong, though?" Jeongin reasoned. "To rely on adrenaline for the energy I didn't have?"

"No, but it is wrong to push yourself beyond your limits, ppang. You knew you didn't have to run that hard, yet you still did."

Jeongin knew he was starting to annoy the noona, but he pushed through nonetheless. "So you're telling me to hold back when I'm on stage?"

"No," ever the calm, patient noona, Jasmine kept her cool and didn't bark back. "What I'm saying is, you were giving your 120% on that run on the stage, Jeongin, when you knew perfectly well that 100% is enough. You're pushing that mere 20% by risking your well-being – your health, which you know is crucial in your line of work – and for what? The recognition you already have? The self-worth everyone already see even without you having to prove it?"

Jasmine had this way of scolding Jeongin without really scolding him; she utilized her soothing indie-singer voice really well, combining it with her exceptional songwriting ability to choose just the right words so that rather than feeling like he's getting a lecture, Jeongin actually thought back and reflect on the thing he was being scolded for. Just like he did now.

"You're still on your proving mode, ppang," she continued. Jeongin noticed the frequent use of his nickname and knew that it was her subtle attempt to soften the blow of reality check she was giving him, but he didn't mind the least. On the contrary, he appreciated her effort to still be affectionate even while scolding him (because yes, despite everything he'd thought about her special scolding method, it was still very much a scolding). "You're still trying very much to prove yourself and what you can do to everyone. I know it's something you're getting used to doing ever since your trainee days and then the survival show era, but you really don't have to do it anymore now. You don't have to prove yourself anymore; you've done all that already, and now the world already knows just how well the Yang Jeongin is doing."

As much as he wanted to argue because he was still quite far from "doing well", Jeongin knew the noona had some seriously valid points – and some seriously accurate truths, too. He knew he didn't have to run that fast on that stage, but in his defense, Minho hyung had a role in pushing him past his limits by running so fast himself Jeongin couldn't help but race him even though it was perfectly okay for him to not run just as fast as the dance leader hyung. Maybe he did have the tendency to prove himself all the time, even at times he actually didn't have to, and maybe it was not necessarily a good thing.

"Fine," he finally sighed. "I think you're right, Jaz."

But before he had the chance to let her seize the win further than a satisfied smile on her lips, the door to the room swung open and all seven of his aforementioned nosy hyungs came pouring into the room, Hyunjin and Jisung leading the way.

"Innie, are you – " Hyunjin stopped on his tracks at the sight of Jeongin and Jasmine pressed together, shoulder to shoulder on the narrow sofa. Being the drama llama that he was, he made a clutching gesture at his perfectly fine heart. "Ah, look at this! The baby bread doesn't even need us to worry about him anymore!"

Equally as dramatic – or, Jeongin thought, equally as crazy – the rest of the hyungs started expressing their own despair.

"Aigo..."

"Our maknae really is growing up, no!"

"Jasmine noona, you're really going to let him turn into an adult?"

"In all seriousness," Chris said from the back of the crowd, looking amused despite his words, "Innie, you know you shouldn't've pushed yourself that hard."

"I know," Jeongin grumbled. "The noona gave me an earful about it already."

Chris gasped, and Jeongin instantly knew that the oldest hyung had crossed into his crazy/dramatic mode to match the other members. "You're already talking over our role to scold him too? Ah, noona!"

coming up next

Find the montage of Jeongin & Jasmine and the rest of Stray Kids here!

#stray kids #skz #stray kids fanfic #skz fanfic #stray kids fic #skz fic #stray kids fluff #skz fluff #i.n #yang jeongin #skz i.n #skz yang jeongin #stray kids i.n #stray kids yang jeongin #i.n fluff

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itstheghostofmypast · 1 year

Text

After Midnight

HongJoong x (F)reader

(Reader is Jongho's cousin)

Summary: Late night coffee trips and splattered emotions. Secrets kept by intention and secrets that were just words unspoken. How long could he cling onto the feeling without letting it slip, or would facing it become a bigger issue than how he'd often look at her loving eyes and trip?

Photo credit: to rightful owner : https://pin.it/7aIO4Lg

"Can you please stop being over dramatic, we won't do anything." Wooyoung declared from across the room, laying on the sofa as he tossed his comic book aside. Yunho, who was sitting at the other end of the same couch nodded, "You realise we aren't perverts."

"Hyung, please, I am begging all of you do NOT do anything weird." Jongho sat on the floor, in front of Seonghwa who was extremely confused, but patted the younger one's head nonetheless.

"Of course, I know that!" The youngest whined, "But you guys get so excited and- and SAN HYUNG BREAKS STUFF AND YEOSANG HYUNG IS SO CLUMSY-"

"What is this about anyway?" Seonghwa asked, looking around for their 'captain', who had asked him earlier in the day to gather all the boys for he had someone to introduce to them.

"Basically, remember San wanted to do a barista bit, so manager-nim got it arranged, the owner is this loser's cousin and he's afraid we're going to do something to mess it up", Mingi declared, not sparing a glance from his phone.

"It's not like we'll do anything on purpose," Wooyoung muttered causing everyone but the maknae to chuckle. "Listen to me, she just started her business and she's the family's favourite and if something happens to-"

"Calm down." Seonghwa placed a hand on his slumped shoulder, squeezing it lightly as he gave him his signature smile, "Hongjoong and I'll make sure nothing of the sort happens, okay?"

"Speaking of Hyung, where is he?"

☕

"You ready?" He placed his hand on hers, eyes still on the road, giving it a light squeeze.

The thing is, she wasn't nervous, but she knew he was. She had already met his parents and his brother, in the six months of being together and other than him assuring her about being liked by them, she was sure about their positive feedback of her as well. So, why was he so nervous about introducing her to his friends?

Though Hongjoong claimed to be a calm and expressionless individual, she knew he was far from it. There were many things that he'd do that would give away his feelings, from the way he'd bounce his leg every time he was worried, to how he'd randomly smile at himself when he was happy, to how he'd initiate physical contact when he was nervous, such as now. He was never a handsy person, which is something she loved about him, for he'd never initiate anything unless he got her approval first. The first time he held her hand was after they had been dating for three months, the full-on fingers locked together. He was nervous that day as well, standing in front of his parent's door as he waited for someone to open the door, praying the night would go well.

So right now, their hands were in the same position, gripping onto hers as if he was afraid she'd disappear, which is why she thought distracting him would be a good option.

"Joongie?"

"Hmm?"

"You know Ateez?" She felt how sweaty his palm got at that, glancing at her as he licked his lower lip, "Yeah? What about them?"

Frowning she shook her head, "No as in, do you know the group? Have you heard their music before? They want to do a show at my cafe and I agreed, I do need the money but I was wondering, if you're free that day, you could be there with me?"

He parked right in front of the gate of a house and looked at her. "Sometimes I forget how out of touch you are with the world." He pointed out, causing her frown to deepen as he chuckled, leaning closer to peck her.

"I'll be there." With that he was out of the car and was opening her door for her, holding onto the bag of pastries she had made for them before closing down her cafe.

Still sceptical, she stepped out before linking her arm with his, her nerves getting to her as she stared at the house. "We- I mean...what if they don't like me and you and I have to break up and--" she whispered only to be cut off by his firm, "They will like you."

☕

The eldest got up when they heard the doorbell ring, "Listen, he had to introduce us to someone, so everyone please be nice okay?"

"Hope it's a turtle." Yeosang whispered to himself, earning a look of confusion from Wooyoung who also muttered, "What is wrong with you?"

"Did you all listen to what Hyung said!?" Jongho asked, trying to bring back the topic needing everyone's attention, this is why he asks HongJoong to do things, they listen to him. Speak of the devil, he turned to the door when he heard their captain, "Everyone, I'd like you to meet-"

"Jongho?"

"Y/N?"

"Eh?"

"Eh??"

"Eh???"

"You...know him?" Hongjoong cut the session of their confusion, staring at the confused faces of everyone else too.

"We're cousins."

"WHAT."

"Hyung's already made moves on your cousin, bro." Wooyoung snorted, high-fiving San whose boisterous laugh echoed across the walls, the faces of the two cousins reddening, for different reasons.

"HYUNG WHAT THE HELL- Y/N WHY WOULD U DATE SOMEONE YOU JUST MET?"

"WHAT DO YOU MEAN?"

"Jongho, I've known her for more than half a year." Their leader rubbed his temples, "If this is because of the cafe thing, then I assure you, I did not know the cafe owner we had been in touch with was your cousin, who also happens to be my girlfriend."

"Wait..." She pulled away from him to glare at him, "You're an idol- wait." Turning to look at Jongho, "You're part of Ateez?"

"Yes, get with the program sister." He snapped only to apologise as soon she raised an eyebrow at him, but it was HongJoong's death glare that had him apologising twice.

"I am." He cleared his throat, before introducing each member, "This is Seonghwa, that over there is Yunho, next to him is San, Yeosang and Wooyoung on the couch and of course, you already know Jongho." Placing the pastries on the coffee table he turned to look at her, for she had not moved an inch from the doorway, "I...I'm sorry for not telling you earlier when we started dating, I thought you really were joking about not knowing any other group after EXO or VIXX, but I soon realised how out of touch you were with pop culture...so I...didn't want to ruin it.' he mumbled the last part, only for her to stare at him then aimlessly nod.

"He's told me a lot about you" Seonghwa offered, placing a hand on her shoulder, "please have a seat," he glanced at Wooyoung and Yeosang who got up to give her space to sit.

"How about you guys talk and I'll go make some tea." Seonghwa motioned for Hongjoong to follow and the younger one knew he was going to get an earful.

Y/N sat there staring at her hands, he had kept it from her since they were together. Exactly who was she in a relationship with? What else was he lying to her about? Is that why when she told him she doesn't like the concept of dating pro-idols, he avoided her for a week? Was she some form of mere entertainment-

"Y/N?"

She looked up at her name being called, she wasn't too good at learning the names of strangers she'd just met, but she could tell San's face apart from all of them, his name did reflect his physical being.

"Yes?"

"Did you make all of these?" He asked with a boyish smile, "No wonder Hyung was obsessed with your cafe."

She couldn't help but chuckle at his comment, watching everyone nod in agreement, except for Jungho who was still sulking on a single seater, arms crossed, glaring at Y/N.

"Yah, stop being rude to our guest." Wooyoung scolded, flipping the lid of the box and showing the abstract logo, "How on earth did you not know this was from your cousin's cafe."

"Because I don't go prying into people's lives." He huffed, side-eying Y/N who rolled her eyes.

"Kinda think it was hyung prying into your life..." Yunho mumbled before grabbing a tart only to stop when he heard her gasp.

All worried eyes looked at her, even her cousin.

"YOU'RE RICH, YET YOU JUST GAVE ME A FRUIT BASKET ON MY BIRTHDAY?"

☕

"I thought you said you've told her." The eldest began as he placed the cups in a tray, staring at the water boil in the kettle, he knew if he made eye contact with the leader, the younger one would lose all confidence and quiet down.

"I um...I tried to, many times I swear, usually something would come up and remember when she said that thing about the idol? I couldn't just take a risk, not after she told me she really really liked me, and I tried telling her three days ago too, but she was so busy with what she called a new venture and in the car ride today she told me it's with Ateez!" He argued, whining as he sat on a bar stool, laying his head on the marble countertop, feeling the cool sensation against his warm, buzzing forehead.

"So, what will you do now?"

"I don't know...I do like her-"

"Then tell her- no, you should have told her from the start." he sighed, staring at the steam slowly begin to seep out of the spout of the kettle.

HongJoong was about to respond but the loud noises from outside caused Seonghwa to sigh and motion for him to go check it out.

Stepping into the sitting area he saw Jongho on the ground, curled up in a ball wincing every time he got smacked with a cushion, thrown by none other than Y/N.

"What's going on?" he asked only to meet the glare of his girlfriend who ignore him and sit back down frowning.

Yeosang just patted his shoulder and muttered, "Jongho may have crossed a boundary. Also, we'll be in our rooms, call us when...everything okay...or at least when the tea is ready."

With that the others followed him out, Yunho dragging a whining Jongho by the ankle. If HongJoong wasn't scared of his relationship, he would've laughed at the sight. The room was filled with awkward tension, a million questions running through his mind, followed by the scenarios he assumed would play out. He was the leader, he was supposed to be good at communication, but to some extent that skill did not cross over to his personal life, restricted to only their professional industry.

So he stood there staring at the floor, hands by his side, wondering how to approach this, without hurting her or at least by not worsening the situation. Glancing at him she realised he must be off to his usual internal battle, that's the first she had noticed about him. However, he would just freeze in place, vividly having an internal monologue with himself, turning it into a debate.

"I'm sorry, we're closed for the night," she said as she twisted the key to lock the glass door, her eyes meeting with dull orbs. She could see the electric blue hair peaking from under a beanie, college students were weird these days. No, their parents were, her parents never even let her dye her hair to a lighter shade, let alone bleach it.

"I" Pulling out the key she turned to him completely, waiting for him to continue his statement. Only then did she take in his appearance, bigger than her, but smaller than the usual students who drop by, dressed in all black, covered with a giant black coat, the academic look of defeat completed by the backpack slinging off his shoulder.

Hongjoong had gone through possibly the worst day of his life. He had gotten up to the sound of the members fighting in the kitchen, which was very rare, especially if it was San arguing with someone, said someone being Yeosang. He knew the boy was patient, but under the immense pressure of the comeback, everyone was slowly cracking and it could only take so much for Yeosang to do as well. He would constantly remind the members that the boy has his limit too, and pushing him to it would be bad because while the quiet one was extremely understanding, his tongue was sharp enough to slice any man, woman or child in half. And that had happened,

"Hyung why not?" San had argued, about something extremely stupid.

"because I don't want to, just because you guys yell doesn't mean I'll always listen," he mumbled back scrolling through his phone.

"It's one backflip! Do you think I won't be able to catch you, you're already so small and-" his words were cut short as Yeosang slammed his phone on the counter and glared at San, "Small? I'm not small you giant man child, I am not a toy for you to toss around, go bother someone else."

"Yeosang..."Seonghwa sighed, noticing the frown present on San's face, he knew the younger one wouldn't answer back, just bottle it up.

"What? What Yeosang? I am sick and tired of this nonsense, everyone has a limit!" uncharacteristic volume of his voice startled everyone, the younger ones staring at their breakfast as he looked directly at Seonghwa, "You can't start a fight or throw an insult and expect me to always shut up and take it!"

"That's enough..." Yunho mumbled, placing a hand on his shoulder, squeezing it lightly as he noticed his lower lip trembling, "No!" he slapped his hand away, "You all say whatever you want! And I just have to listen to it?! Why?"

"Hyung we aren't against you-" Jongho was about to continue but stopped when he met the icy gaze of Seongha- shit.

"You're not the only one here Yeosang." his words were sharp, with no warmth to them, "You don't want to do something- fine. But we're all under some kind of stress." he hissed, earning a scoff from the younger one, made the others gasp in fear. No one, not even HongJoong had scoffed let alone responded to Seonghwa when he was angry.

"You got a problem, Kang? You take it up like a man." the screeching of his chair echoed across the kitchen as he stood up with a force that scared Yunho enough to come in between their glare, begging the older with his gaze, "H-hyung come on, this isn't us. We're all just a little worked up." he looked at Wooyoung who for once looked scared as hell, "Y-yeah, let's all just apologise to each other." he aided his older friend and gulped when San shook his head staring it at his lap, wiping his eyes with the back of his hand.

"Oh look, big baby can start shit but not apologise?" Yeosang was practically shaking in anger at this point, he knew he was being rude, hurting San, and disrespecting Seonghwa, but if he was hurting then so would everyone else.

"What did you say?" Seonghwa shoved Yunho aside only to stop as his gaze locked with someone outside the kitchen. He let out a sigh before sitting back down, glancing at Yunho who looked at him with fearful eyes, slowly nodding at him. It was when Yunho sat down that others including, San looked up and Yeosang to craned his neck to look back and saw their captain. His giant glasses were at the tip of his nose, magnifying the dark circles under his tired, puffy eyes. He looked more tired than the rest of them, hw also looked more disappointed and upset than the rest of them.

Entering the kitchen he looked at the mess before shaking his head, going over to the counter to get himself some coffee, waiting for them to feel his presence. That's what he'd always do, just sit there or stand there stand in silence observing them. Two reasons; firstly he wanted them to realise their mistakes and secondly, he needed time to form words that were supposed to diffuse the situation.

"So, I guess I overslept through this," he said, back leaning against the counter, holding the warm mug of coffee in his hand as he stared at them. "I'd ask who started it, but I don't care, tell me, who wants to end it."

"I'm not going to, it's not even my fault," Yeosang muttered playing with a fork.

His eyes moved to San who looked at him before lowering his gaze and shaking his head.

He let out a sigh before downing his coffee in one go, placing the mug on the counter, "Fine. I'll go first." he said staring at them, "I'm sorry you guys have to work so hard to achieve your dreams."

"Hyung..." San mumbled but was cut off by HongJoong, "I'm sorry you all are so stressed and worked up, I wish I could take that from you all, but I can't no matter how hard I try. But if there's one thing I'm not sorry for, it's your crappy attitude, and I don't remember ever encouraging that we come at one another in the hardest of times."

Mingi looked at HongJoong, knowing how he was one of the people here who had to face the heat from all ends, someone who would cover for them blindly, no questions asked. So it is natural for him to be disappointed in this situation, given it involves the two people who fight the least.

Everyone thought San would be the first to apologise, but when Yeosang spoke up, even HongJoong was surprised, "I'm sorry...San, I shouldn't have lost my temper, but I'm not doing a back flip." he said looking at the boy who as staring at his lap before turning to the eldest and taking a deep breath, "Hyung, I'm so-"

"It's fine" Seonghwa cut him off, "Just...be careful next time, ya know." he gave him a small smile before everyone looked at San who sniffed.

"San? Do you have something you wanna say to Yeosang?" HongJoong asked, really in no mood for this to continue.

He was about to ask again before a choked sob left the big boy, causing them all to sigh in defeat, they knew once he'd reached the point of anger he'd just break down and cry himself to sleep. Usually, they'd let him, but HongJoong wanted him to apologise to Yeosang, so it would be fair.

He called out for the boy again but stopped when Yeosang got up, presuming he was going to leave, but once he walked over to the boy, a small smile made its way to HongJoong's face.

Sighing Yeosang patted the younger one's head, mumbling, "I forgive you...and you aren't a man child...though you are annoying sometimes." the younger one pulled him into a bone-crushing hug, whining out apologies into his shoulder, Yeosang wheezing out its okay, please don't crush me to death.

After that, HongJoong told them to take the day off and that he handle the manager himself. With only a mug of coffee in his system, he had gone to the studio, explained and begged the manager to let the rest take a day off, and in return, he would work on their album in the studio. To his luck, he was allowed to do so.

Unfortunately, he had started working at around, 10 am and by the time he felt that his body was demanding proper food and rest, he had realised that it was past midnight. Hence he had run out of the building to look for anything to eat, to kill his hunger and the banger headache that ran around, screaming in his skull.

He had recently been told by Bang Chan about a new cafe, where the owner was relatively young but paid no mind to celebrities or anyone else, just asked them to have a good time and the coffee was a blessing itself. This is why when he finally made it to the shop, lady luck was once again not on his side.

She was closing up and although he wanted her to listen, he had no real words or energy left to ask - beg- her to open the shop again, just for him, just this once.

"We open at 9 am, you can come by then." she gave the kid a tight-lipped smile, noticing how he never continued his statement or moved.

She had no plans on entertaining a brooding college student at this hour, hence, she was almost ten steps away when she heard a low but very loud growl. Slowly turning around to lock eyes with him, he quickly bowed embarrassed as hell, standing up straight to leave but his stomach was quicker than him.

A stiff giggle escaped her lips as she looked at the embarrassment behind his eyes, the rest of his face was covered by a mask but she could tell by the reddening of his ears that he wanted the earth to swallow him whole.

"Alright, here's tart and here's your coffee, now," she frowned at him with her hands on her hips "This is not a healthy meal, young man, nor do I open up for students in the middle of the night. So, eat up and go home, and don't tell your college-" she paused when he took off his mask, and beanie, eating, no swallowing down the food, "Highschool? Either way, high schoolers shouldn't be out t this hour." she continued to berate him, no more concerned about him being a customer but him as a child. She remembered her cousin pulling shit like this, staying up late at night and for her to help him with his homework before class.

"And which school allows you to dye your hair-"

"I'm 24 years old by the way."

"It's unreasonable- I- sorry what?"

It was then that the two learnt something about each other. He was older than he looked and she loved to nag. Neither found it a problem after a week of him showing up at this hour- which was reserved only for him.

Hence, much like that night she saw him staring at her, well actually he was in thought. It didn't take long for her to figure out that it would usually be her who would address the elephant in the room, him being more of an introvert. Lucky for her, her ambivert personality made it easy for her to deal with just about anyone.

Patting the place beside her she looked at him with pleading eyes. "Wanna...talk?" she muttered, although still a bit upset.

Sighing in defeat he went and sat next to her, placing his hand on hers, unlike how they made fun of him for being small, he was always glad to know that she was smaller, her hands were a good size smaller than his, which is why he loved holding them.

"I know...I should've told you." he sighed glancing at her, only to find her staring at him with full force. That was another thing about her that he had to learn the hard way. The days when he decided to ditch her when she had shown her displeasure towards idols and dating such.

He had td Seonghwa, who had suggested perhaps telling her, to which he argued with the "She's too headstrong- it's like...convincing Jongho to lose a game so Yunho doesn't feel bad."

So, naturally, he had decided to not go there anymore, or at least tried to. For three months he had been a regular 1 am customer - no- a friend, a potential lover, he says potential because he could see the way her cheeks would be dusted with pink when he'd compliment her baking, or how she'd avert her gaze every time they'd lock eyes for longer than 5 seconds. He was ready to dive in and tell her about his job, himself, and his dreams.

That is until she told him how she was not into pop culture, her cousin being in some idol group was hectic for everyone and stressful, she had seen the elders in her family stress over him. She wasn't into the fandom wars too, music should be enjoyed, not be fought over.

"So, like...no band or group?" he asked taking a sip of her new variation of the coffee of the day- reserved just for him.

"Well, I used to be obsessed with EXO and...for some time with VIXX but, that's about it."

"You don't even know which group your cousin is in."

"Nope, don't care, punk owes me a decent birthday gift though."

Swallowing the lump in his throat he smiled at her comment, no longer interested in telling her about anything. To him, she was a peaceful, pure, pretty little girl, if she was truly happy not knowing things like these, then there was no way he was going to drag her into it all.

That's why he had decided to not go there anymore. Even when Bang Chan had texted him, asking if he liked the place, he said it was 'okay'. Truth be told it had been a week since he had met up with her, let alone call her- he had been ignoring her texts too. It had been going weirdly okay, it had been a week, no other member but Seonghwa knew about his secret friend- ex-friend and much to his surprise the older hadn't pushed him into meeting up with her again.

He wasn't going to go to her, yet, he stood in front of her cafe, staring at the dim light that was on, it was 00.58 am. Two more minutes and he'd step into the cafe- why? Simple.

For once he was free before midnight, for once he was going to go to sleep before midnight. Flopping face down on the pillow, he was almost gone to meet the sandman when his phone buzzed. Assuming it was the manager he squinted at the bright screen:

☕: Hi, I just wanted to apologise if I've said or done something to upset you. I know you aren't responding to me, which is fine, but I need to know if I should move on and forget our friendship. Tonight's the last night the cafe will remain open till 1 am.

(00.15)

That's all it took for him to go rushing towards her, no way in hell did he ever want her to think this was her fault, let alone apologise for something she didn't even do. It's not like she knew he was an idol, nor did she ask before they developed feelings for one another.

01.00 am

Taking a deep breath he walked into the cafe, closed the door behind him, and went to the table at the corner, nearest to the counter, where he saw a cup of coffee and a new pastry on a pretty plate.

Sighing he looked around before sitting down, waiting for her to come before beginning to eat, like he usually would. And just like usual the door kitchen doors opened and she came out with an empty tray, frowning. This was the first he had seen her frown, the first time he had seen a small crease between her eyebrows and a small pout replacing her usual smile.

Did she not want to see him today-

"Oh, you're here?"

Never mind, she just didn't see him sitting there.

Wordlessly nodding he gestured for her to sit down, he was going to do it tonight. Tell her the truth, so the ball would be in her court. He had enough happening on this side of the field to be dealing with this too. He liked her, he really did, he enjoyed knowing someone who was disconnected from his bustling world of stardom. One could also say he was truly inspired and somewhat intimidated by her straightforward personality and way of life. He'd usually ponder for hours before saying anything to anyone, she'd take 2 minutes, not that she was brash, but she was honest. There were many things she'd do that would remind him of Jongho and it somewhat scared him.

But he was ready this time, he was going to do the same thing she would always do, tell the truth.

Glancing up from his now empty mug to meet her burning gaze. He flinched and tried to pass a cheesy, heart-stopping smile, but he got nothing in return. Weird, fans would usually love it.

"Are we friends or not?"

No, they were not friends, he didn't want to be just friends with her.

"No."

She looked at him for a second, taking in his small rejection. She'd be lying if she didn't feel sick to the core, for almost a week she was waiting to see him. So desperate, she wasn't even sure if it was platonic anymore, but that made it worse. Never had she felt the urge to be around someone, that too with someone who barely spoke, often did the listening and then just ghosted her.

Taking in a deep breath she slowly nodded, feeling the dejected atmosphere settle around her. Perhaps she wouldn't even open the shop tomorrow-

"I want to be more."

His words echoed across the empty shop, only then did she realise he had moved right in front of her. Pulling her up to stand, cold hands cupping her warm face as he looked at her with love wrapped with guilt.

He didn't know why he had blurted out either of the things he had just said, but all he knows is as soon as he saw the defeated look in her eyes, he decided to not tell her about being an idol- perhaps it was him being selfish, wanting to experience the love that was not bound to his career, or maybe he pitied her, for falling for someone who had been lying to her, or maybe, just maybe, he had realised that it would have become difficult for him to pull through without her, especially when he had shown up as soon as the message of parting was delivered.

"I'm sorry." he whispered turning, "But, please try to understand, when you said...the idol thing, I did try to pull away but." Moving closer she continued to look at him with eagerness, wanting him to continue, she knew it was better for him to let it out of his system.

"But?"

"But, I couldn't" and just like that it was like they were sitting there at the cafe. Back to that very night at post 1 am, staring at each other, him confessing to her as if his life depended on it. Alone, together. He cupped her face again, just like that day, licking his lips as he glanced at hers, never understanding why he thought kissing her was better than using words to express himself.

If Wooyoung would even get a whiff of this then he'd never let it die, demanding something stupid like "Kiss me to convince me Hyung."

"Will you keep staring or say something?"

Snorting at her words, a surge of confidence ran through him, as he raised an eyebrow, "Impatient aren't we?" Squishing her cheeks he pecked her pouting lips, "I was scared you'd leave me. I...was...a bit selfish I guess". Smiling at her glare he repeated the gesture, short and sweet pecks, using them to punctuate each statement;

"And I am truly sorry for it."

"I know you're mad at me, and you have every right to be."

"I just didn't know what to do anymore."

"I did want to tell you, each day, but each day I felt my fears grow worse."

"What if we broke up?"

"What if you begin to hate me?"

"I couldn't... I didn't want to risk it."

"For that I am sorry. But I will never be sorry for falling in love with you."

With one last peck, he pulled away, all confidence deflated as he sat back up, staring at his lap again. Two things were bothering him now,

a)would she forgive him?

b)is Jongho his ideal type?

"You...love me?" she whispered touching her lips that were still warm from his antics as she stared at the wall in front of them. Her face flushed at this thought, covering her face with her hands as she let out a muffled giggle before quickly turning to meet his confused stare.

"You do? Really?" she asked holding his hand in hers, shaking him a bit as he chuckled nervously, "Not how I wanted to confess, but yeah- do you?" he asked, trying to read her positive expressions over and over so he could calm down his insecurities and fears.

"To the moon and back."

His ears perked up at that mumble confession, eyes widening at the sight of her shying away after saying that out loud. But he pulled her back, arms wrapping around her frame like a rope as he pulled her closer, slowly resting his forehead on hers, glancing at her glossy eyes then lips back to her shy and pure eyes, then closed his own, relishing in the feeling of pure bliss of being this close to her, body and soul.

"EW HYUNG GET AWAY FROM HER!"

The two flew miles away, at the opposing ends of the couch. Faces flushed, both eying the floor like it was the prettiest thing in the world. Neither spoke a word and Jongho stomped inside the room and sat between the two. If she wasn't embarrassed about being caught by him, she would've smacked him on the head. She was the same age as HongJoong but she was older than this idiot. On the other hand, HongJoong still couldn't get over this giddy feeling of her reciprocating his feelings, his fingers were digging into his pants as he smiled to himself like an idiot.

"Glad to see everyone's happy." they turned to the door frame where Seongjwa came in with a tray, tea and cups atop. Thebothers followed in as Wooyoung winked at HongJoong who rolled his eyes and leaned forward to look at Y/N who was still staring at the floor before, a blushing mess before she turned to Jongho and poked his side earning a squeak from him, "Move."

"But!"

"👀" he stopped when he noticed how almost everyone was side-eying him, causing him to whine and get up. As her cousin was out of view, her eyes locked with a smiling HongJoong- he looked a bit too happy, leading her confidence to falter as she cleared her throat and turned to face the rest.

"Here." Yeosang smiled at her, handing her a cup, "I'm glad you aren't a turtle."

She took the cup with a thank you before raising an eyebrow, mumbling a 'what'?

"He thought hyung would bring a turtle," San interjected from across the room as he picked up two pastries, much to Yunho's displeasure.

"But we're glad you aren't a turtle" Wooyoung chimed, winking at HongJoong, "But shall we discuss PDA rules, so Hyung can keep his hands to himself and so Jongho doesn't lose his mind?"

Before the older could react her laughter interrupted them, she covered her mouth trying to contain herself as she shook her head, turning to smile at HongJoong, with a knowing smile, resulting in him giving her a pleading look and shaking his head.

"He's BLUSHING"

"AWW HYUNG YOU'RE ALL RED"

"DOES THIS COUNT AS PDA TOO?"

She laughed along to their teasing, glancing at HongJoong who grew redder with each comment, this was his world, his safe place, and he trusted her enough to bring her here.

While they continued to make fun of him amongst each other, they didn't notice her moving closer to him. She placed a hand on top of his, only for him to flip it, so her palm was facing him, locking their fingers together. This was the only form of PDA everyone should have been worried about because as simple of a gesture it was, it was the most intimate thing they'd do.

"Why do I feel like this wasn't a good idea?" he whispered to her, earning a chuckle, "It's okay, 1 am coffees are still reserved only for you." she smiled back at him, before turning to see how they had moved onto teasing Jongho who was hiding behind Seonghwa as his savior.

"Thank you," he muttered out of nowhere, unsure of what he was thanking her for, but the squeeze of his hand made him sigh in relief, leaning back and watching it all unfold, liking how everything had turned out better than he had expected it to be.

"Y/N save me!" Jonghoncalled out to her as she got up from her place, HongJoong having an amused smile plastered on his face, knowing her intentions.

Jongho looked up at her with expectant eyes, everyone else stopping their ministrations at once, only for Mingi to burst out laughing as she stopped by the coffee table, grabbed a tart and went back to sit next to HongJoong, "Once, this is over, how about I show everyone Jongho's baby pictures."

"Y/N NO!"

"YES PLEASE!" They all yelled, getting worked up and messing with the maknae. HongJoong patting her back, too giddy and relaxed to let anything bother him at this point, at least for the night.

A/N: Okay, so I hope ya'll like it. Ateez will be the death of me, I'm sorry. I can not. If you like my work, I'd be glad if you want to join my Ateez taglist.

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billyloveschickennugget · 3 months

Text

Me now, please? - Jung Sungchan (RIIZE)

Idol!Sungchan x malereader

prompt: sungchan seeks for Y/n's attention after a long, exhausting day of constant practices.

Wordcount: 1738 Genre: Fluff, bit of angst i guess..?

⋆.˚✮🎧✮˚.⋆

"Y/n-nie!!!" Sungchan called from the distance, his eyes gleaming with the sparkles Y/n's too fond of.

"What's with the energy, hyung?" Y/n chuckled as his boyfriend arrived at the kitchen and hugged him from the back, sticking his damp shirt in between.

"The practice is finally over! It was sooo tiring~" Sungchan whined in murmurs, nuzzling his face in Y/n's neck to inhale the scent that never failed to calm his tides.

Y/n giggled and let his boyfriend play with him for a while before suggesting, "how 'bout you go take the bath I prepared while I make dinner? You'll catch a cold in those dampened shirt."

One of the reason Sungchan loves his boyfriend is during these moments. He knew well how clingy he can be when he missed Y/n, but Y/n never pushed him away. Y/n's words were always gentle, and it had never been used to hurt one's feelings. Even Sungchan's fellow members loved Y/n in their own way, sometimes seeking for his comforting presence and advices when Sungchan allows (which was rare, and they had to arrange a secret meeting only to meet Y/n).

For all the years they've been dating, not even once had they ever fought against each other. With Y/n's kind and accepting nature and Sungchan's undying love, their relationship has always been as strong as a boulder. They kept no unnecessary secrets from each other and confess their feelings when a side is upset over something, while making sure their voices are to be spoken and heard without raising its volume.

Giving a quick peck in the cheeks, Sungchan rushed to the bathroom and quickly cleaned himself, eager for the cuddling session he'll force Y/n to have at the night.

Stripping his clothes away, he let himself relax in the bathtub of warm bubbly water. There were two ducks floating above the water that Y/n must've put out of his little mischief and the thought of Y/n grinning cheekily putting them made Sungchan's heart swell in love.

Y/n loves collecting bath bombs and picked the coconut fragrance for his bath today, evident by the slightly sweet and nutty aroma with a soothing oceanic feel. The bath tensed his muscles down from the intense practices earlier, working like a magic to Sungchan's aching body.

Satisfied with the rest, Sungchan emerged freshly with a new mood, like a restless puppy excited to play with its owner.

He descended from the stairs to find Y/n picking out movies for their little date night. The comfort foods Sungchan would always crave after a tiring day were all present on the coffee table, and knowing it's cooked by his lover, he knew he'd ravage the meal in no time.

Sungchan made his steps known to prevent startling Y/n—who could jump like a hamster if scared—and made his way to sit beside Y/n at the foot of couch.

"It smells good," Sungchan was already grinning like a fool. Y/n's presence alone always had this effect that'd make him giggly, no matter the situation.

"Dig in then, 'lemme find a horror movie for us to watch," Still, Sungchan found his boyfriend a menace sometimes. Though Y/n appears to be the cutest person in his eyes and despite he gets scared easily, his love for horror movies was somehow a stark contrast to those personalities.

But who is he to stop Y/n when silly ghosts are what makes him the happiest boy alive?

And it resulted in Sungchan eating the meal with his eyes closed the whole time, while Y/n laughed at the jump scares as he enjoyed the meal alongside Sungchan.

"Can you pass me the coke, hyung?" Y/n asked in the middle of the movie and Sungchan had to take deep breaths just to do so.

His eyes opened in a second and searched for the coke, before quickly grabbing it to hand it to Y/n. But to his dismay, the ghost jumped to the screen with a loud, thundering noise that caused Sungchan to jolt in fear.

The can of coke went flying across the room and Sungchan found himself falling into Y/n's embrace.

Y/n recovered from his laugh and caressed Sungchan's hair, whispering sweet apologies to him. "Do you want to continue? Or should we watch another movie?"

"Another!" Sungchan yelled, his voice coming out muffled in Y/n's pants.

Pleased with the amount of laugh he got, Y/n switched to another action movie and got immersed into it while Sungchan focused on the food in front of him.

Sungchan would occasionally—or perhaps every second—glance at Y/n to see the adorable twinkling eyes, like a kid who'd just been revealed to the wonders of a magical world, eyes wide with awe and delight, absorbing every detail as if it were the most fascinating thing ever seen.

His hand would find its place on Y/n's thigh, gently stroking it with his thumb with no particular reason but to enjoy the moments he was constantly blessed with every single day of his life with the boy.

Really, he wouldn't trade away this perfect life for anything. Not even for all the treasures in the world, for the joy in Y/n's eyes was worth more than gold, and the warmth in Y/n's smile brighter than any diamond.

They had just finished tidying the living room and the kitchen. Y/n was currently at his desk, working on his computer in their dimly lit room, while Sungchan was playing his phone on the bed.

Deciding that it was late, Sungchan turned his gadget off and wanted to call it a night.

"Y/n-nie, let's sleep? It's late," His voice accompanied the keyboard typing noise Y/n was making as he stood up to approach his boyfriend.

"You should go ahead and sleep first. I still got some work to do."

Sungchan leaned himself on the back of Y/n's chair, resting his arms on it as he watched the monitor Y/n was controlling. None of it was to his knowledge and he had little to no intention to even bother with it, yet he was upset with how tiring the work seemed to be.

Sungchan would always wake up to realize Y/n had just joined him on bed in the middle of the night, and it wasn't a pleasant fact that he's pleased of. Though he appreciated how much of a hard worker Y/n is, sometimes, he'd want him to stay on bed and get the rest he deserved all day while he works alone to manage their life. Because he hated it whenever Y/n would wake up in an exhausted state, so often that the boy would drunk himself in caffeine to stay conscious.

"Please sleep with me. It's been a while you know? Since I've fell asleep with you in my arms," Sungchan's voice was barely audible, his lips forming into a pout that Y/n knew was inevitable.

Y/n rotated his chair as Sungchan lifted his arms up—their eyes met under the glow of the moonlights glowing through the window.

Standing up, the boy snaked his arms around the taller and buried his face on his shirt.

The gesture caught Sungchan off-guard, until he heard silent sobs coming from his lover. "What's wrong, Y/n!?" He leaned out and cupped Y/n's cheeks up, taking in his teary eyes.

"Talk to me, Y/n-ah. What's wrong?" His voice was soft, aware of Y/n's unstable emotions.

Y/n held the palm resting on his cheeks, feeling his walls breaking down apart even worse. "Have I not been there for you enough? Have you been feeling lonely?" He sniffed, feeling guilty for leaving Sungchan out.

"Hey, hey, what are you talking about? You've been there for me all the time. You cared for me all the time. You were there for me during my ups and downs. You were perfect, Y/n-ah. So don't think like that, alright?" Sungchan panicked as he gently wiped away Y/n's tears with his thumb. He mentally slapped himself for failing to foresee Y/n's struggle, when he himself knew the best of his lover's tendency to bottle things up.

This was now the second time Y/n had been pushed to the edge to the edge, the first being a year ago when he witnessed Y/n's breakdown. Although it hadn't been his fault back then, he had vowed never to see Y/n cry like that again, making it his resolve to protect the shine in Y/n's eyes. Yet this time, it was his actions that had caused those tears to fall once again.

"I'm sorry. It's been overwhelmingly tiring these days," Y/n's voice sounded so broken that it clenched Sungchan's heart. It reminded him of their past, when Y/n would constantly apologize and feel guilty over things that weren't his fault.

"No, no, don't be sorry. You were busy and tired. I shouldn't have been too demanding. I'm the one who's supposed to be there for you," Sungchan's own eyes started getting teary as he firmed his wavering voice. "I just want you to know that it's okay to lean on me too. We're in this together, and I want to share both the burdens and the joys with you."

The curve in Y/n's frown was such a heartbreaking sight, Sungchan immediately brought Y/n back to his embrace. They both stood there in each other's arms as Sungchan softly reassured his boyfriend.

The couple talked it during that night, deepening their bond by sharing what's been trouble them the past days. Y/n confessed the most that he hadn't let his boyfriend know before—the weight of his struggles, his fears, and even his weaknesses.

Sungchan listened attentively throughout the late night divulgence, sharing his own opinion to each thoughts that Y/n shared to him.

Beneath the crescent moon that shone that evening, Y/n drifted asleep in Sungchan's protective arms, nuzzled deeply into the embrace he trusted his whole life with. Sungchan, ever grateful for the perfect boyfriend he was gifted with, strengthened his resolve to protect the very same boy who had become the reason for his existence.

#riize #sungchan #jung sungchan #male reader #reader #mxm #fluff #angst

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cutiedwaekki · 1 year

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TEDDY BEAR

or were Seungmin and Minho used to be chilhood friends but the oldest as a kid always made fun of the youngest for being chubby. But no worry , karma come and hit him

a/n : it sat in my drafts for so long that i had to get it out someday ;-;

TW : bullying

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

- "H-hyung please stop...it-it's not funny anymore"

- "Stopping what ? Can't the little piggy run?"

- "H-hyung please... give it back to me" begged the boy again.

But he knew that even if he begged, Seungmin would never see his bunny plush again. All because Minho likes to tease him. Ever since they were little, they'd been close, playing together, coloring together, laughing together. Mrs Lee even said that Minho used to spend time with him when he was a baby, and that just watching him in silence helped calm him down.

So how did they go from such a pure, innocent friendship to a toxic relationship at such a young age? Simple. Minho was two years older than Seungmin, so he went to primary school first and soon made new "cooler" and "funnier" friends, except that, not wanting to be left behind by them, he took a few wrong turns. One of which was to "tease" Seungmin because the poor kid was overweight and because it seemed fun to insult people who were different from the norm.

It wasn't his fault that little Kim liked to eat; he'd been born premature, so his parents had done everything to spoil him properly and treat their only son with love for having managed to hold on. And even if his mother was worried about the remarks people might make about him, she loved seeing her chubby Seungmin because he was a far from the vision of that poor malnourished premature baby whose doctors had announced he wouldn't make it through the night.

He was a miracle, a ray of sunshine who was pampered by everyone in the neighborhood.

And yet the only one who seemed to put him down was Minho. All his remarks, his nicknames, his actions, everything revolved around the youngest's weight. Piggy, pig, whale, cow, fat, he was only 6 but he'd already heard it all from Minho. But Seungmin was strong, or at least he wanted to believe that they were just bad jokes, that Minho hyung had a special sense of humor, he wanted to believe that his favorite hyung wasn't a bully. After all, he was kind to everyone, got good grades and even helped out at the local animal shelter with his mother. Why did everyone have the angel, but he had the demon?

Why him? What had he done wrong to Minho?

-"Boys, stop playing, it's time for you to eat!" shouted Mrs. Kim, who had just seen the two boys playing together from afar, unaware that her son was being bullied by his one and only friend. Of course, he was the only one intimidating him, and fortunately so! After all, Mrs. Kim had already seen Minho attack those who tried to intimidate Seungmin last week.

From a distance, it looked like a beautiful friendship, but the reality was less beautiful.

- "You won, piggy, it's only because I'm nice" Minho finished before throwing his stuffed toy to the ground and running to the table to eat.

-"Leebit! Didn't he scare you? My poor Leebit" groaned poor Kim, hugging his stuffed toy as he waddled over to the table where the Kim and Lee families were gathered.

-"Kids, we've got something to tell you" declared Mr Lee before clearing his throat. He knew it would be hard for them, but they needed to know.

The two children, sitting opposite each other, turned to the oldest's father and listened to what he had to say. Was Minho going to have a little brother? Not another bully, no!

-"I know it's a bit hard for you to say this, but... We're moving to Seoul ... next month" announced Mr Lee, dropping the bomb.

Both children were shocked, and against all odds, even Seungmin hadn't expected it, Minho began to cry.

After all, he cared for Seungmin, and although he'd grown up behaving like a jerk to him, he love him and cared for him strongly, just in a strange way to show him that he was anything but the right way.

In the end, the meal didn't go as well as usual. In the afternoon, Seungmin cried because Minho had pushed him. In the evening, Minho cried because he would never see Seungmin again. Paradoxical, isn't it?

You'd think that 8-year-old Minho would realize the damage he's done to his friend and try to put things right.

But it got worse.

Now any situation was good enough to make fun of Seungmin. When he drew, talked, walked, played, breathed.

The poor puppy had had the worst month of his life, yet as soon as it was time for the Lees to leave, Seungmin had woken up early with his parents to say goodbye, and the day before he'd even baked cat shaped cookies for him and wrapped them up.

- "Here, take Leebit with you, he'll keep you company" he said, handing his favorite stuffed toy to his eldest, who took it without saying a word before throwing it violently into the car.

Minho remained for a long second without saying anything to Seungmin, whose eyes were beaded with tears of sadness.

-"Don't cry, you'll look ugly afterwards" said the elder, although his heart wanted to say "Don't cry, it hurts me to see you sad".

The youngest ended up wiping himself with his sweater while his eldest left without doing anything, neither cuddling him nor consoling him, just saying "See you next time piggy, I hope you'll stay a good pig until i come back" in a teasing voice.

Oh, this time Seungmin didn't want to cry for him. He'd given him so many chances to catch up but he wasn't going to do anything about it.

At his young age, the boy promised himself that the next time he saw Minho, he'd make him pay for all those years of gratuitous meanness.

-"Goodbye Hyung" he mumbled weakly.

This time, no one would make little Seungmin cry again.

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

- "So how did you get here?"

The model took a deep breath before a sneer formed on his lips.

-"You know how we say you should always learn from those who put you down? I was often bullied into being the little fat kid, but they made me a confident model who will earn more than they will in a lifetime".

And yes, years later, little Seungmin had grown up, asserted himself and decided to lose weight in a healthy way, maintained a gym routine almost religiously and had a dream body that many dreamed of having. In short, he had learned from his bad experiences.

Yet he kept thinking of the same person over and over for years. Night and day, he'd obsessed with him until now: Lee Minho.

Now he always wondered if Minho had seen his progress, was he ashamed now? Was he still a heartless bastard? He'd never know, after the Lee's moved to Seoul he'd never heard from them again, except from his mother who kept in touch with Mrs. Lee.

He had tried to find Minho on the Internet, but nothing. Well, there was an Instagram account by the name of : @/linodontknow which was basically an account that posted pictures of three cats and really good food.

He could lead a good life now, he thought.

Did he even remember him? The chubby little boy he'd hurt, the little boy who trusted him and saw only the good in him?

As they say, karma happens sooner or later, and it's only a matter of time before Seungmi gets the answers to his questions.

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

He got up late, not a great start to his first day as a photo editor for the country's biggest agency.

But what do you expect,just some ice cream in front of an anime and he fell into a sleep so deep that his cats woke him after he'd woken up.

He ran at top speed, running so fast that on the way in he tripped over someone and knocked him to the ground just like himself.

-"Oh no, I'm so sorry, are you all right?" he declared shyly, holding out his hand to his counterpart.

- "It's nothing I wasn't paying attention either, mistakes happen uh..."

But as they finally looked into each other's eyes, it was with horror and surprise that they stared at each other in silence.

-"... M-Minho... ?" the younger man asked as he shyly nodded his head.

-Yes, it's me... hello ...Seungmin..." before lowering his gaze - yes, he was ashamed.

Ashamed to meet again his one and only true friend, the only friend who had ever meant anything to him, but also the only friend he'd broken because he was afraid to admit that he saw more than just a friend in him.

Minho felt bad when he moved out, and the more the days passed, the more ashamed and guilty he felt for his actions.

But karma was stronger than ever, and just as Seungmin was about to accept Minho's hand to get up, he pushed it away and stood up alone, looking down at his elder slumped on the ground.

- "You look like you've turned into a pig too, I wouldn't have believed it!" exclaimed Seungmin, chuckling as he felt very pleased to see Minho like this, shy but above all very, very fat!

He was wearing a pretty purple silk shirt, size 3XL, which perfectly complemented his curves, while his black pants seemed to be especially tight around his thick thighs.

The table had turned but instead of retorting, Minho began to weep, kneeling before Seungmin, paying no attention to the world around them as they stared curiously at each other.

-"Sorry, sorry, I'm sorry, please forgive me".

Seungmin, who despite being only 23, had expected Minho to be as arrogant and mean as ever, the jerk who had tortured him and made him look bad. This same person was there in front of him, obese but above all on his knees in tears, begging his forgiveness.

Seungmin had never sought revenge, he just wanted a real apology, one that was far too sincere for him to ignore.

-"Come with me and stop crying, your face will be all puffy afterwards" he said, helping him to get up on his feet

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

Fortunately, Seungmin had helped justify Minho's 45-minute delay, and the fact that Seungmin, aka the model everyone wanted, was a close friend of Minho's meant that his lateness was seen as a blessing. After all, SKZ media had been in negotiations for weeks for Seunmin to signed with them, and now he called saying "I accept as long as Lee Minho works here".

During those 45 minutes, they sat down in a nearby café, Minho kept crying and expressing how sorry he was, and even though Seungmin tried to keep a cold, stoic image, his gentle gaze and the tears that rolled down his face showed that he was deeply affected by it all.

For 45 minutes Seungmin had listened to Minho tell him all about it, why he had done it.

He now saw his former bully as a fragile person who, for fear of being bullied, had decided to bully the one who meant the most to him.

At the end of the 45 minutes, Seungmin stood up, handed over a piece of paper with his number on it and said, "You did me a lot of harm when I was little, but I can see that you're sincerely sorry, so I forgive you... if you feel like getting in touch or having a coffee some other time, take this. Put that shirt back on next time, it looks good on you" he said, almost shyly handing over the paper although his gaze was anything but in the direction of his counterpart.

- "... Are you asking me out on a date?" Minho then asked in confusion as Seungmin almost soaked up his saliva.

Yet he didn't mind the idea of a date, even though they hardly knew each other and a few minutes before he'd still considered Minho his old bully and friend, but now they were back to something new

Should he do it? Was he strong enough?

Too many questions were running through his mind, and while he was unsure, he answered in a weak voice: "Yes... consider it as a date", leaving with his heart pounding, unaware that Minho's cheeks were now as red as a tomato.

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

Their first date was quite awkward, they didn't know what to say or do without rushing the other. Minho didn't want to make any comments that might hurt Seungmin's feelings, while Seungmin didn't want to make any inappropriate gestures.

But they went on a second date, then a third.

In no time at all, it was as if they'd been friends for years, acting as if just a few weeks ago everything was fine between them.

By now, everyone knew about Seungmin and Minho's strong friendship; sure, they teased each other a lot in front of everyone, but in every interview Seungmin did, he always mentioned "my closest friend", referring to Minho, who quickly understood that the most fashionable model's mysterious friend was none other than him.

He was happy, he liked his job, his working environment was really nice, Chaeyeon was one of his colleagues who always brought him a caramel caffe frappé. Then there was Felix, the communications manager who loved to give him a taste of his brownies. And i'm nlt even talking about his collegue Jisung who always thry to ask him out ( in a respectfully and funny way of course)

It may seem surprising, but Minho was so used to an oppressive work environment, where all his former colleagues made fun of him for his weight, that so much good ambiance warmed his heart.

But what melted his heart was Seungmin, now he could see him smile and laugh like never before. He saw in him the little boy he had admired watching as a child.

His heart had begun to beat a little more, he was becoming increasingly shy. Every time they went out they'd say it was a date, yet they did nothing more than act like friends.

That is, if you didn't take into account the way they looked at each other. The way they cared for each other. It was so clear and so ambiguous at the same time.

But Minho liked it. And so did Seungmin.

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

- "Date tonight at MyDay restaurant, put on your beautiful purple silk shirt it suits you so well ;)"

That's the message I'd received this morning, so thrilled he went to put it on except that, to his great surprise, it was already hard to put on, feeling very tight inside, but he supposed it must be because he'd put it on wrong. As he reached to close it, realization hit him.

He waddled over to his mirror and realized what was happening. His poor shirt didn't fit at all. Minho couldn't understand, had he really put on so much weight?

Of course, he ate almost constantly at the office, and was invited by his colleagues to happy hours where the food was half-price, as was the alcohol. And Seungmin loved taking him to fancy restaurants.

Minho took the time to admire himself in front of his mirror. He used to be fat, but now he was clearly obese! His arms were hanging down and so heavy that he couldn't lift them for too long. His belly had doubled in size and was hanging so far over his knees. But the biggest problem was his thighs, so thick they rubbed at the slightest step, not to mention his ass, which left everyone speechless.

-Wow, you've really let yourself go!" he exclaimed, pinching his double chin in amusement.

As he'd grown up, he'd realized that his weight was just a detail, and he'd even become excited about it. And now he got a little too excited, grabbed his phone and started taking photos of his body from all angles, the more photos he took the faster his heart beat, in a naughty mood he took off his shirt which had become useless, then his boxer shorts even though he could hardly see under all those layers of fat.

So he took photos of his naked body, simply for himself, for his own pleasure, the man he'd been making photo edit of models, always making them slim and perfect, was himself a model with perfect skin but so big that no runway would be wide enough for him.

Everything was going so well for him, what could go wrong?

That he made a mistake and instead of sending his images to his private library, he sent them to his most recent contact?

No, that's impossible... uh?

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

(3) Minnie's missed calls ❤️

"Wow hyung I didn't think you were brave enough to send me this ..."

"But I'm honored it's the first time I've received nudes ;)"

"I take it your silk shirt doesn't fit you anymore? I'll get you another one"

"Hyung? Is everything all right? I've got an hour free in my schedule and I'm going to give you a visit"

"I hope you won't be naked"

"But i wouldn't mind"

୨♡୧ ִ° ⋆ ʚɞ ꒰ ˶- ༝ -˶꒱

#weight gain #my fic #skz chubby #my fics #skz 2min

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ruinwild · 2 months

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@crue11

he had always tried his best to remain calm and levelheaded during any of the group's public appearances. in order to not only potentially drive any of their fans away and put out a bad impression to the general public about not only him but the group as well since he was already well aware that he'd only get an earful from their company ceo and manager later on especially since he was known even during his trainee days to have an anger problem that up until now he'd been keeping under control as it wasn't like there was a lot of things that would make blow up like he used expect for maybe when one of his group mates would take too long in the shower or something like that ? that was until when the group had been invited on a variety show as they would normally during their promotion periods in order to promote their latest song / album what was different though was that they wouldn't be the only group on the show that day as nospin was invited on too which many in both the int kpop sphere and the general public thought were rivals of sun&moon when the truth of the matter was that they mainly saw them as friendly competitions that was only there to push them to do better & hone their craft but it wasn't like they were close with each other by any means as he sat down on an empty chair once the program began to start and without any prior warning the show host had announced the theme for the broadcast that day which would be like an open forum type of concept especially given the somewhat friendly rivalry between the two groups already at this point and as they were about to begin everything for the day he took in deep breathes knowing that they were going to given really hard questions and hurtful words by the other group to play up what was going on with both groups and at first he wasn't mindfully paying any sort of attention to what was being said so far , but that was until he heard things that were complete lies about not only him but his group mates as well and given how fiercely protective he was about them especially the younger ones he could already feel himself getting hot under the collar as he briefly fanned himself in order to cool off his rising anger but it didn't help much as he got more and more angry the more they spoke until he couldn't take anymore of it causing him to angrily stand up from his chair as he rolled up his sleeves making his way over to the other male already seeing red as he pushed past both his group mates and the show host in the process before being held back by seokjoo as they already knew what was going to happened. “ i'm sorry hyung but move it ............. yah ! say that to my face you little punk i dare you to. ” he said moving past the older male and moving closer to them in the process as he readied to throw a punch their way.

#crue11 #ii. / threads : BAE ' MIN ' SEOKMIN .

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zarahjoyce · 10 months

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MITD Fic: aftermath

Summary:

"Isn't it weird, Hyung?" Jun O tells his brother, just after they've eaten a particularly delicious dinner that Min O had prepared for him. "I felt like... I fell in love with someone without me falling in love with her. Like I miss her all the time but at the same time I don't and it's just--" He rubs his forehead and sighs aloud. "I feel like I'm going crazy sometimes."

Jun O, in the aftermath.

Notes:

I HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS ABOUT MOON IN THE DAY THAT I CAN'T STOP MYSELF FROM WRITING THIS... THING IDK.

now also with Ao3 link!

Protect Kang Yeong Hwa. I need to keep Kang Yeong Hwa safe. Jun O finds himself often waking up in the middle of the night, shaking, sweating, breathing hard. The thoughts beat in his mind like a drum, growing louder and louder until he's deafened by them. He drags his hand through his hair, trying to calm himself down, trying to keep his chest from bursting.

Protect her from what? Why do I need to keep her safe? He doesn't hear any answer, however.

He never did.

And he's left wondering what that was all about for the rest of the night.

Min O notices the bags under Jun O's eyes, but never comments on them.

"Did you sleep well?" he asks instead.

No. I never do.

"You know, Hyung," Jun O quietly replies, playing around with his food without any urge to eat them, "I know I told myself that I wouldn't feel curious about--"

He stops.

Kang Yeong Hwa. Even the mere thought of her name makes Jun O feel a deep sense of... yearning? Longing? For a woman he barely knew.

Which is ridiculous, of course.

So, he just draws a deep breath.

And forces a smile for his brother's sake.

"Never mind," he says instead. "What's my schedule for today?"

He finds that handling a sword came so natural to him, it felt like he's been doing it his entire life. Like it's an extension of his limb. Like cutting lives is something he did everyday.

Don't even get him started on how ridiculously easy it was for him to hit a bullseye with an arrow - something he'd been awful at before.

"Who knew I'd find sageuk dramas so easy to do?" Jun O muses out loud, patting himself on the back for a job well done - according to the director, no less.

Manager Jang glances at him from the driver's seat. "Yeah," he says, and Jun O frowns at the odd tone of his voice. "Who knew."

Dismissing that, Jun O gets his phone to scroll for articles praising his acting abilities - as they should - when he blurts out, "You're in contact with Kang Yeong Hwa, right? How is she?"

Thankfully, they were waiting for a green light, giving Manager Jang a chance to actually turn to him and say, "How'd you--"

"You're dating her friend, right? The one she thinks of as her sister. The one who owes her--"

And then Jun O shuts his mouth, and stares at his manager in horror. "I knew that? How do I know that?"

"T-that was what I was about to ask you," Manager Jang replies. "By any chance, do you actually remember--"

The car behind them honks its horn.

Jun O rubs his forehead.

"Drive," he orders Yoon Je. "Just... just drive."

By pure chance, his next project was about him being a firefighter.

Jun O dreaded coming to the fire station. If only because that meant the possibility of coming face to face with--

Kang Yeong Hwa. And his heart skips a beat.

Manager Jang must have noticed his obvious discomfort. "You know," he says, "if you're worried about seeing Kang--"

"Worried? Who said I'm worried? Are you worried? I'm not worried!" Jun O replies in rapid succession, scoffing all the while. "Why would I be--"

"She actually left yesterday," his manager continues. "For Antartica. So you won't be seeing her anymore."

Jun O stares at his manager.

"--oh," he says.

A beat.

"That's good," Jun O adds. "That she's... gone. That's good."

Except he felt like weeping.

Min O pats his hand. "Do you want to see her?"

"No," Jun O replies quickly - which tells him that that was honestly what he was feeling. "No. It'll fade, whatever this is. I just need to bear it. I did beat cancer, of all things. I can beat this phantom feeling too."

"That's right. Just persevere and you'll win." His brother smiles at him. "You're growing up, Jun O. I'm glad."

Except this didn't feel like growing up.

It just feels like he's lost.

But Han Jun O perseveres.

The next few years flew by in a hurry. Thankfully, Jun O's schedule had been packed with projects that he hadn't had enough time to mind anything else.

Today, however, he's scrolling through his phone, browsing through the news to find anything related to him when he spots--

--an article about a miracle firefighter saving lives from a burning building - including a pregnant woman and her three children.

Kang Yeong Hwa, was the firefighter's name, written in bold print.

And Jun O waits for that achy feeling that haunted him before to envelope him at the mere sight of it.

Except it never came.

Come to think of it, he couldn't even remember the last time he thought of her.

And even now that he is, Jun O doesn't at all feel... overwhelmed.

Just... happy. At the thought of her living her life and saving lives in the process.

He sighs and smiles in relief.

I'm free of you, Kang Yeong Hwa. Finally. Guess this means I win.

#did i just write something what #moon in the day #han jun o #kang yeong hwa #kim do ha #I HAVE A LOT OF FEELINGS

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crystalsnow95z · 1 year

Note

Request: On the way to dance practice, Jimin gets violently stopped by a hater. The members notice that he is gone but doesn't think much of it since he's always late (lol). Soon, they go drive around and look for him since they get worried and find him beat up. They help him heal physically and mentally <3

I knew requests like this would come after I posted my car accident story, but don't worry! I will gladly fulfill requests like this as well!

I actually had my real life friend help come up with the hater scene because I found it difficult to talk badly about our angel.

My psychological stories always end up with super long beginnings. Sorry^^,

Let's get to the story ~

Trigger warning: mental and physical abuse(obviously) please avoid in between the green lines if you aren't okay with violence

I couldn't fall asleep at all last night, I can't believe I'm this nervous when the award show isn't even until tomorrow.. I probably only got an hour of sleep..

Jimin sighs, yawning behind the face mask he adored to cover up most of his fsce. He told staff that he would walk to work today, thinking the fresh air would help wake him up, and he could stop by the nearby cafe to buy for drinks for him and his members.

Along with his face mask, he wore a black snap back that kept his face in the shadows, talking to the barista in a lower tone than his usual one. "I'd like 6 large iced Americanos and one hot chocolate, please, large for that one as well."

Despite all his efforts to keep his identity a secret, he felt like he was being watched. He looks around, trying to see who it is, jumping when he hears the barista speak again.

"That'll be 40.45, please."

"Oh, yes. I'm sorry." He bows, quickly swiping his card. I'm just being paranoid.. I gotta calm down. Jimin takes a deep breath, going to the side to wait, going on his phone to try to ignore the feeling.

Jimin successfully gets his order, carefully holding the bag to try not to spill his precious cargo. They've been practicing for several hours a day for the past two weeks in preparation for an upcoming concert, and he knew his gift would cheer everyone up.

He checks the time surprised to see that even with his stop, he'd get there with a little time to spare. I'm actually going to make it. Namjoonie-hyung can't tease me today.

His smile quickly dropped when he felt someone walking uncomfortably close behind him. He stepped to the side in case they were just in a hurry and wanted to pass him, but when he stepped, so did they.

Did they follow me from the cafe?

Jimin felt his heart accelerate at the thought, picking up the pace. When he started walking faster, so did the man. There's no doubt they're following me..

Jimin looked around to see if there was anyone to ask for help, but with it being this early on a weekday, there was no one. He takes out his phone to try to call for help, but as soon as he unlocks it, he only presses one number before the man grabs his wrist pressing hard on his veins.

Jimin drops his belongings, the coffee he was trying so hard not to spill covering the pavement. "Th..that hurts, please let me go.." Jimin's eyes widen with fear, his voice coming an octave higher as he tries to use his other hand to pry the man from his other wrist. "What do you want from me...?"

"What I want? What I want is for you to quit BTS. Jin and Taehyung would get more parts if you weren't in the picture. Jin's voice is much better than yours, but he's too kind to ask for more lines, and Taehyung's dancing is overlooked just because you had prior experience. He's just as good as you, but you still make him live in your shadow, and he does it with a smile because you're his so-called friend." The man speaks in a soft tone, so no one but Jimin hears him, dragging him into an even more secluded area, Jimin unable to break free from the larger man's grip.

"What's going on?" A passerby asks.

"Oh, nothing. We train under the same company and he decided to try to skip out of practice! I was told to get get him. We're running late so I'm sorry we must go." The man lied naturally, pulling Jimin faster.

"Wait, no! I don't - " Jimin tries to speak, but the man digs his nails into Jimins's wrist, his pleas for rescue turning into a yelp.

"Now.. where were we?" The man continued when he gets them out of the prying eyes. "Oh yes, your lines hogging and you stealing the center far too often, you greedy little sh*t."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Th..that isn't true! We make sure everyone gets what suits the song best, I don't decide what parts I get.. we agree as a team!" Jimin's words are meant with a punch directly to his eye.

"You're a fu*kin' liar! You could easily turn down a part, but you don't because you're a greedy bastard! You might have everyone else fooled with that goody goody act, but I see right through it!"

Jimin stumbles to the ground, covering his already swelling eye with his hand slowly rising to his feet."I'm not acting.. I'm just being mys-"

Jimin's voice gets cut off when his attacker kicks him in the chest, keeping his foot firmly on top of him, the vocalist letting out a breathy moan as he struggles to breathe with the weight on his chest.

"I said to stop lying, you little piece of filth." The man glares down at him. "You're holding everyone back. You're just a leech piggy backing off the others' career."

Tears streamed down Jimin's cheeks, trying to relieve the foot from his body, but think man was much larger than him, his efforts in vein. "Hyung.. please.. help me.." he tried to scream but fear made his vocal cords too tight, his voice coming our as a whimper.

The man bends down, grabbing Jimin by the jaw, pulling him to his feet. "You can't do anything on your own. Come on. Hit me." The man taunts him, turning his head to the side for Jimin to punch, but Jimin opts to try to escape instead.

"Don't you try to run. I'm not done with you!" The man grabs him by the hair. "You didn't agree to quit!"

"I..I won't.. we're sev..aghm..." Jimin's whimpers as the man pulls harder.

"Plenty of groups do fine with 4 members. You aren't needed. Quit fooling yourself. They don't actually need you." The man throws him back to the ground, stepping on Jimin's wrist to pin him down. "If you won't quit, I'll just ruin that pretty face of yours. Then those fans you gush about so much won't want you."

Please.. someone.. save me...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Where's Jiminie? It's already been fifteen minutes. He's never this late without calling first." Taehyung asks, finishing up his warm-up stretches quickly getting his phone to look for any messages.

"I don't know.. I'll call him. He probably stopped somewhere on the way. He told staff he would find his own way here." J-hope takes out his phone, waiting for an answer. "Huh? He didn't pick up.."

"What? That's not like him." Taehyung tried calling himself, frowning when he gets the same result. "I'm going to go see if he's nearby. Maybe his hands are too full to get his phone from his pocket."

"I'll go with you." Yoongi quickly offers, digging in his bag for a beanie and face mask. "Cover up Taehyungie, we don't want to draw too much attention."

"Okay Hyung." Taehyung gets his red baseball cap and his face mask, pulling his hood over it.

"Let me go too." Jungkook goes to get ready to go, but Namjoon stopped him.

"We don't know if he's missing or not. If they don't find him, then we'll all look okay? Let them handle it. They'll call if they need help."

Jungkook bites his tongue, wanting to argue, having too much respect for his leader to disobey him.

"Let's practice without them for now. Jungkookie, you wanted me to help you with the hook part in the new song anyway, right? I'll have the time to teach you one on one." J-hope distracts Jungkook while the two deagu boys leave the practice room.

"You don't really think he's just not answering because his hands are full do you?" Yoongi asks, trying to keep up with Taehyung's quick strides as he rushes out of the building.

"I just have a bad feeling, that's all.. let's walk towards his place.." Taehyung follows the path he knew Jimin would take, keeping his eyes open for the pink haired Busan boy.

Yoongi agrees, following beside him as they walk, freezing when he notices the toppled over paper bag from the coffee shop Jimin frequents after practice. "No.."

Taehyung follows the olders' gaze, but instead of the purple phone case. The one he just picked out with Jimin last week. Taehyung runs over, confirming his suspicions when he sees the lock screen. "Jimin-ah was here.."

"I'll call the others." Yoongi pulls Taehyung as he walks, dialing Jin's number.

"Did you find him?" Jin skips greetings.

"We found his phone.. someone had to have grabbed him.." Yoongi tries his best to speak clearly, but his heart thumps painfully in his chest with anxiety.

"I'll call the police. You get back to the studio." Jin motions for the others to come here.

"No, we're fine. We'll stay together. I need to look for him. I'm sorry, hyung." Yoongi hangs up before Jin can forbid it. He couldn't wait for the police. Since he's an adult, they could easily chalk it up as just him losing his phone and us being paranoid idols..

Yoongi went into the nearest shop, bowing to the woman at the counter. "Excuse me miss, but did you hear any commotion outside your shop?"

"I'm sorry, no. Is something wrong?" The shop keep answers, but Yoongi didn't have time to explain.

"I'm sorry I'm looking for someone I don't have time to explain." Yoongi pulls Taehyung along with him, asking anyone who gives him the time of day if they saw anything out of the ordinary.

"Please, sir.. did you see him..please just look this picture." Taehyung shows them a photo he took of him and Jimin yesterday, their face covered by the masks.

"The pink haired boy? Yeah, I saw him with another guy, probably his manager or security guard. You missed them about twenty minutes ago." The man tells them. "He should be back by now, don't worry."

"Which way did they go? What did that man look like?" Yoongi demands, coming out more harsh than he intended.

The man points towards the river. "They went that way. He was mostly covered and looked pretty average. A broad shouldered man with black hair and brown eyes."

"Thank you so much, sir." Taehyung bows before Yoongi pulls him. We need to find him.. I know Yoongi-hyung. I'm going as fast as I can.

Yoongi dragged Taehyung through the city, both of them stumbling over cracks in the sidewalk, quickly texting the others on the latest update. They had no idea where they were going. Their only thought was to find their missing member.

He was spotted with a man going towards the river. Heading there now. it's the only lead we got..

Yoongi texts quickly.

We'll meet you there. Let's meet at the bridge. I'll update the police.

Jin texts back.

Jimin was discarded underneath the bridge, unable to lift his head without pain. "Hyungie.." Jimin calls hoarsely to the open air, but his voice is drowned out by the sound of the wind and the river.

They probably won't bother looking for you

The man's voice rang in his ears, hot tears streaming down his cheeks. The cold breeze of the river chilled him to the bone, Jimin hardly making it out of the water, laying soaking wet on the shore.

"Jimin-ah!" Taehyung's voice comes out hoarsely as he screams. They've been looking nonstop for the past hour. The police were no help, saying they lost them on camera, so the only lead they had was the river.

"Jiminie-hyung!" Jungkook yells after him.

The boys split up into two separate groups, going in different directions. Namjoon, Taehyung, and Jungkook were in a group together. One body guard went with both groups.

Namjoon was walking ahead of them at a brisk pace, freeezing in place when he sees the bright pink hair of Jimin in his current favorite oversized white sweater. "Taetae, Jungkookie.. I see him!"

Jimin could hear the voices of the others running towards him, feeling Namjoon pull him into his lap. "Hyungie..I'm..I'm cold.." Jimin could hardly see him, his eyes mostly swollen shut, but he could recognize the voices of his members anywhere.

"It's okay, it's okay. I got you. Let's try to get you warmed up some.. okay? " Namjoon takes off his jacket. "Jungkook, help me get his shirt off."

"They really hurt him." Jungkook felt his stomach drop when he saw all the bruises covering Jimin's face, his nose crusted over with dry blood, his lip swollen with a split down the left side. "We need to call an ambulance to be sure nothing is broken.."

Namjoon and Jungkook help Jimin get his shirt off, eyes widening when he sees the bruising continuing across Jimin's body. Anger flashed in Namjoon's eyes.

How could anyone do this to him? He's nothing but kind to everyone he meets..

Namjoon helps lead Jimin's arms into the jacket, Jimin inhaling sharply when his fingers bend.

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I just want to try to get you into something dry.." Namjoon gently takes Jimin's wrists, only now noticing his swollen fingers. Shit.. i gotta keep focused... I can't let my emotions cloud my judgment."He has at least a few broken fingers.."

"Help is on the way." The security guard, Jeong, called an ambulance while the members were busy with Jimin, taking off his jacket and throwing over Namjoon's shoulders.

"Jiminie..." Taehyung dries his tears with the back of his thumbs, voice coming out as a sob. He had never seen Jimin in such a rough state, the most he's ever seen was a wrapped up leg from dancing too hard

"D..don't cry

"Deep breaths, Taehyung.. we found him, and he's alive.. that's all that matters. You too Jungkook.." Namjoon tries to calm the younger boys, despite his emotions running high.

"You came.." Jimin croaked, his eyes watering again, shivering violently as he clings to his leader.

"What? Of course we came. We came looking the moment you didn't answer your phone. Why would you think that?" Namjoon rubs his hands across Jimin's arms. "Oh.. the others! Jungkook call seokjinnie-hyung."

"I meant. You found me.." Jimin quickly changes his words when he hears the pain in his leader's voice clearly hurt by his words. "Sorry..."

"Huh? Oh.. yeah.. right." Jungkook was still in shock on Jimin's condition. Following hyung's request, Jungkook looked away from Jimin, feeling sick to his stomach.

Could this have been any of the others? Namjoonie hyung rides his bike to work a lot of the time..

"Hy..Hyungie, we found..but but.. they really hurt him. We called for..for.." Jungkook spoke quickly, stammering out the words, his mind reeling with dark thoughts.

"Jungkook-ah breathe. I can't understand you. Did you find him?" Jin gently orders him.

Jungkook passes the phone to Taehyung, unable to calm his nerves, who takes it, wrapping his body around the Mankae.

"We find him, but it..it looks like he got jumped.." Taehyung did better to keep his voice under control, but Jungkook could feel his heart beating wildly against his back, clearly having the same thoughts.

"What? How bad is he?" Jin asks, voice filled with worry.

"He..he..ah..b..broke so..some fi..fingers.." Taehyung struggled to explain it to Jin, a hard lump forming his throat, when he tries to speak, tears pricking at the corner of his eyes.

"Hey..hey, it's okay, you don't have to talk about it okay? I'll just see for myself. Don't cry Vuu.." Jin speaks in a soothing tone, hearing Taehyung holding back a sob. "It's okay to be scared.."

Jungkook places his hands on top of Taehyung’s squeezing him. "You're gonna make me cry Hyung.."

"I'm sorry, Koo.." Taehyung takes a deep breath, burying his face in the youngers shoulder. The boys hear the ambulance in the distance.

There's no doubt they love me, but is it really okay for me to be one of the leads in both the dance line and the vocal line when Jin and Taehyung are more talented than I am..

Jimin felt guilt eat away at him, the words of his attacker ringing in his head.

"It's okay Jiminie, help is coming.." Namjoon wipes Jimin's tears, unaware of the mental trauma that was plaguing the pink haired vocalist.

"The police are here.." Jeong says entering the room. "They want to talk to Jimin-sii about what happened..'"

Jin looks at the sleeping vocalist, clenching his jaw. He didn't want to wake him, and the police offered little help, not even lending them a search party to find the missing boy. "Give us a minute."

Jeong nods, relaying the message.

"He needs to talk to them so they can help track him down.." Namjoon gently wakes Jimin. "Jimin-ah, you need to talk to the police for us okay?"

Jimin blinks sleepily, the pain medicine leaving him groggy. "Hm..?"

"Do you think you could tell the police what happened, Minnie?" J-hope asks gently.

Jimin felt his skin crawl with anxiety at the thought of explaining it in front of the other members. They're already upset enough..

"I'll tell them on my own..please?" Jimin asks softly.

"Whatever you want, Jiminie. We'll go outside for a bit, here..take my phone and call me when you finished.." Yoongi gives him his phone, cracked from hitting the pavement. "It still works, just be careful.."

"Alright.. Thanks Hyungie.." Jimin puts it on the side of the bed watching the others leave the room and two officers come in.

"Hello, I'm officer Kim and this is my partner officer Lee." He bows slightly, the other officer doing the same."

"Hello.." Jimin greets them, doing his best to bow respectfully, wincing at his sore rib cage.

"How are you feeling, Park?" Officer Kim asks, looking at Jimin sympathetically.

"Are you able to explain what happened?" Officer Lee joined in the conversation.

"I hurt all over, but I'll be okay.." jimin replies, wishing they would just her to the point and skip formalities.

"Could you explain to me what happened then?" Officer Kim asks, getting out a notepad to write with.

"I went to the Cafe to get drinks on my way to the hybd building where I work, but while I was in there, I felt like I was being watched. I thought nothing of it at first, just a fan too shy to approach me, but I was wrong..." Jimin's eyes grow wide in fear as the memory of the larger man looming over him as he leaves the Cafe, grabbing him roughly. His breath picked up his throat, coughing as his throat tightened as tears threatening to form.

"Park-sii, Park-sii it's okay.." Officer Lee touched his shoulder, pulling him out of his thoughts. "Take your time.."

"Ah...I'm..I'm sorry.. I just need a minute..th..thank you.." Jimin stammers out the words, Officer Lee giving him a tissue trying to clean up his tearstained face.

"It's okay. You had a traumatic experience. Take your time." Officer Kim gave Jimin a kind smile.

Jimin takes a few deep breaths, trying to calm himself to continue the story, telling the officers about how he lied saying they knew each other, how he took him away from the others and threatened him to leave his group and beat him for refusing. Jimin was in tears as he spoke, using the tissue to dab under his nose that dripped with snot.

"He..he..just..hated me..that I was..was rui..ruining the band.." jimin finishes his story, wincing when he rubs his sore nose. He couldn't go into detail about what the man said, leaving that part vague, but the officers didn't press him to delve further.

"We'll find him." Officer Lee promises, but Jimin doubts his words. His face was covered and disappeared from sight on the cameras after dumping him.

"Thank you for talking with us. I hope you recover quickly." Officer Kim leaves with his partner.

Jimin sat in silence in the hospital bed staring up at the ceiling, trying to calm his nerves before calling Yoongi. "Hyung.. come back please?"

"Of course. I'll be right up." Yoongi could tell Jimin was crying by his congested tone. "Stay on the phone, okay? I want to tell you about my visit home." Yoongi wanted to get his mind off the situation.

"Oh right.. you visited home to visit for a birthday.." Jimin couldn't remember if it was his mother's or his brother's birthday he went to celebrate, those little details slipping his mind. He was usually better at these sorts of things.

"Yeah, I did.. and My mom taught Holly a new trick. You know how I tried to teach him how to roll over but he wouldn't completely roll?" Yoongi pauses for Jimin to respond.

"Oh right, he'd go on his back or flop to his side but he wouldn't fully roll." Jimin felt a soft smile creep up across his lips to hear Namjoon gush about his precious pet.

Yoongi enters the room with Taehyung and Jungkook following behind.

"Where's Hobi-hyung and Namjoonie hyung?" Jimin asks when he notices the two missing.

"They're in a company meeting deciding on what we're gonna do about our schedule. I stayed behind to watch these two." Yoongi motions towards Taehyung and Jungkook.

"I'm a grown man now Hyung, I don't need a babysitter." Jungkook argues. "He just wanted to stay with you too because he's worried."

Yoongi hides his face to hide his blushing cheeks, feeling embarrassed. "Everyone's worried.." I'm more worried on your mental state after this.. you've been crying again..

"How are you feeling, Jiminie?" Taehyung asks, saving Yoongi from his embarrassment.

"I'll be okay.. I'm actually set to go home later today. There's not much the hospital can do for me here.." Jimin tells him. I'm glad I don't have to stay overnight. I don't want to sleep in an unfamiliar place.. i don't even want to sleep alone tonight..

"Are you sure it's not too early?" Jungkook asks with concern in his big doe eyes.

"Yeah, all they can do is give me medicine for the pain, and I can take that at home. Someone else needs this bed more than I do." Jimin fakes a smile. "Don't worry. I'll be fine with some rest."

All three boys could tell Jimin's smile wasn't genuine, but nobody said a word about it to Jimin, just silently agreed to keep a close eye on him.

"Steady, steady.." Jungkook slowly moves with Taehyung to put Jimin in his bed.

"I'm being steady." Taehyung huffs, getting Jimin laying down on the bed. "We need pillows to prop his ankle now!"

"I don't have any extra pillows. You and Jinnie-hyung have the most.." Jungkook points out.

"It's only a little sprained, I'll be okay." Jimin tries to get them to stop fretting over him.

"Nonsense. You can use some of mine." Taehyung rushes to his room, bringing all his pillows.

"Taehyungie what will you sleep with if you bring all your pillows in here?" Jimin gives a small chuckle seeing Taehyung dropping the pillows, wincing from his sore ribcage. "Ah.. that hurts.."

"Sorry Jiminah.." Taehyung uses two pillows to get Jimin's ankle elevated, then another one underneath Jimin's head. "Does that help? You can hold this pillow to your chest." He puts it in Jimins

"It's okay.. don't worry about it. That actually feels better. Thank you, Tae.." Jimin yawns with squeak at the end. "Mn.."

"You should try to get some rest, Jiminie-hyung. It'll help you heal faster." Jungkook frowns when he sees Jimin's eyes close tightly in pain.

"Jungkookie, remember Jin is making dinner. He can't sleep just yet.. he hasn't eaten.." Taehyung reminds him.

Jimin's stomach churned at the idea of food, wrapping his arm around it.. He could only manage to eat a few bites of food at the hospital before he felt sick to his stomach, telling the others he just didn't like it. I can't use that excuse again..

"What's wrong, Jiminie?" Taehyung asks, eyes round with concern. "Are you that hungry? I could ask seokjinnie-hyung to get you a snack."

"No,I'm okay.. just some pain from the brusing.." Jimin felt the twinge of guilt worsen his pain. He hated hiding things from his members, but he didn't want them worrying more than they already were.

"My poor Minnie.. I'll get you a heat compress." Taehyung leaves the room, coming back with a few ice packs and the heat compress. "Here, one for your ankle so the swelling can go down, one for your eyes to help with the puffy and heat to help with your tummy."

Jungkook takes one of the ice packs from Taehyung, placing it on Jimin's swollen ankle. "I'll help too."

"Thanks, Koo." Taehyung smiles, putting the heat on Jimin's abdomen, watching him visibly relax.

Jungkook's stomach, growls making him blush in embarrassment.

"I think someone else needs a before dinner snack.." Taehyung giggles. "Go on, I'll stay with him. I bet you can get a snack out of hyung. You hardly had anything to eat either, just that bag of vending machine cookies, and you gave half of them away."

"You should go. I'm fine. Eat." Jimin tried to keep his voice steady. Everyone must've been too worried to eat because of me. I am just making things harder on everyone..

Jungkook leaves the room, Taehyung taking a seat on the bed next to Jimin, wearing a serious look on his face.

"Jimin, you aren't a burden, so stop thinking you are." Taehyung says, grabbing Jimin's good hand.

"Taetae.. I didn't say anything like that.." Jimin couldn't look Taehyung in the eyes, afraid that those large puppy dog eyes would see right through his mask.

"You don't have to.. that's the same look that Hyungie gives when he feels like he's not learning the routine quick enough or when he can't sing because he's sick. You don't need to pretend in front of me, Jiminie, and I don't want you to." Taehyung speaks slowly, gathering his thoughts together. "Scream, cry... do something. Just please stop giving everyone that fake smile.. it's hurting my heart.."

Jimin felt the tears swelling up again, burying his face in Taehyung's shoulder. "I wa..wa..waas so sc..sc..scared, Tae.. I cou..couldn't do any..anything..bu..but h..hi..his words hurt ev..even more.."

Taehyung strokes Jimin's hair. "It's all over now, Jiminie.. We won't let him touch you. We got extra security.." his mind burned with curiosity to know what this man said that upset his soulmate so much, but he didn't dare ask. Not when Jimin was already suffering enough. He didn't want to bring up those bad memories.

"T..T..Taehyun...m..ma..maybe you guy..guys sh..should pe..perfo..form withou..without me.." Jimin whispers.

"We might have to for a short while, until you recover more, but you'll be able to sit and perform once your bruises on your ribs and..."

"N..no..not..not ju..just f..for a..a lit..little wh..while..I mea..mean..y..you can b..be a..a..lead..w..with j..Jungk..kookie ins..stead of..me.." Jimin mumbles into Taehyung’s shoulder, the man's words ringing in his head again.

"What? No. No. No, Jiminie. It's seven or nothing. Don't let him mess with your head. You're so important.. we wouldn't be BTS without you.." Taehyung forces Jimin to look up at him, tears already streaming. "Don't say that..okay...?"

"Taehyungie.." Jimin wipes the tears from Taehyung's cheek. "I..I'm sorry.. Don't cry.."

Jimin felt awful, his heart tightening. How could he tell Taehyung that? Taehyung was the one who stuck up for him as rookies, saying he wanted me to debut with him..

"Everyone will say the same.. You're a part of our team. You'll always be wanted, okay?" Taehyung hugs Jimin lightly.

"Dinner is fini- What happened?" Jin rushes to the bed when he saw the two puffy eyed 95liners.

"I was just..telling Taehyungie about what happened to get it off my chest.." Jimin wipes his eyes, hoping he wouldn't see through his lie.

"Jiminie is also worried about all the time he has to take off to recover.. he's feeling guilty." Taehyung hides the part about Jimin thinking about quitting.

"Jiminie, don't you worry about that. We'll work around it. You need to just focus on healing." Jin places a tray with Kimchi Jjigae in front of him. "Even if we need to carry you around everywhere we go."

"Okay.." Jimin tries to pick up the chopsticks, but his three tapped fingers made it impossible to pick anything up.

"Here, let Hyung do it." Jin takes the chopsticks from him, holding a bite out to Jimin.

You'd have more parts if it weren't for me though.. your high notes are much better than mine..

Jimin felt sick with guilt as he forced himself to take the bite, knowing if he didn't eat, he'd only worry everyone.

"Are you okay, Jiminie? You look pale.." Jin reaches to touch Jimin's forehead, feeling him burning with fever. "Oh my baby, you're getting sick.."

"Sick...? No.. no, I can't be getting sick.." Jimin speaks softly. "I'm just dehydrated from crying so much." Jimin opens his mouth for another bite.

"If you think you can...alright.." Jin feeds the injured vocalist as Taehyung rushes to get water. Jimin eats about half of it before he feels uncomfortably full, Jin cutting him off. "Don't force yourself baby, I don't want you getting sick."

"Here, wash it down with some water." Taehyung opens the bottle, tipping it by Jimin's lips, him taking eager swallows. "Not too fast, Jiminie.."

"Did you eat?" J-hopes voice came from the doorway with Jungkook and Namjoon right behind him, clearly wondering the same thing.

"Yeah, I ate a little.. I'm just really tired, so I'm not that hungry.." Jimin knew that wasn't the only reason, but it wasn't a full lie.

"Then let's go so you can sleep." Jin kisses Jimin on the forehead. "Rest up kiddo." He rounds up the worried members.

"But I want to stay with him.." Taehyung argues. "Please Hyung? I'll leave when I'm tired.. I promise."

Jin looks at Jimin, whose eyes set on Taehyung with relief across his face. He probably wants someone to stay with him until he falls asleep..

"Alright, alright. You'll leave as soon as you're tired, but you need to sleep at a reasonable time for practice tomorrow."

Taehyung pouts. "What? We're going back to work already?"

"I know it sucks Tete, but we can't push back the award show like if it was one of our concerts. Staff will stay here with Jimin tomorrow. Two people have already volunteered." Namjoon gives him a sympathic look, wishing he could just call off work for a bit to stay with Jimin, but his request was denied.

"Okay.." Taehyung sighs. "I'll leave by midnight." He gets comfortable next to Jimin, pressing his side against Jimin. "I'll at least keep you company for now, Minnie. You try to rest, okay?"

Jimin nods, feeling comfort by Taehyung’s warmth exhaustion, hitting him hard.

"Goodnight, Jimin. I love you.." Taehyung whispers, stroking his hair until his breathing becomes slow.

"Lo..ve...you.." Jimin murmurs out slowly, already in a deep sleep.

(Oo, this is getting really long. If you want a part two, I'll continue it)

#bts boys #bts hurt/comfort #bts angst #hurt jimin #bts #bts jungkook #bts namjoon #bts fanfic #bts jhope #bts jimin #bts taehyung #bts jin #bts suga #bts sickie #bts sickfic

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