#will bring tissues and wipes for a comfortable pit crying

[kenjikutie]

Starlight [Dabi x Single Mom!Reader]

summary: when you and your children are saved by a man covered in burns, you offer to repaire his staples and clean him up, an offer that gets you much more than you’d bargained for word count: 2.6k warnings: a tiny bit of violence pairing: dabi x fem!reader

waking up at five am every morning to prepare yourself for the day certainly was not how you saw your life turning out four years ago. but, the moment where you opened the door to your twin son’s room washed away all over your regrets and filled the space with nothing but love. you thanked whatever was above you each day that they had ended up looking like you, rather than their father. you didn’t know what you would have done if you had to look at his face for the rest of your life

kindly stroking hibiki’s cheek, you watched as your son squirm awake, blinking away the sleep in his eyes. you smiled softly and whispered your morning greeting to him, watching as he beamed at the sight of his mother. hibiki kicked his small legs at you, a signal for your attention. with a huff, you lifted your son from his bed and sat him on your hip, slightly ticking his sides to see him giggle

when you felt a small tug on your pant-leg, you glanced downward to see hitomu giving you a pout, clearly jealous of the attention his brother was getting. you set your hand on his head, ruffling his soft y/h/c locks before setting down hibiki to present them their outfits for the day. the two had rambled on and on last night about how excited they were to attend their first day of preschool

though you would never tell them, you were just as happy to get a day to yourself while your sons were taken care of. you had so many errands to run, bills to pay and groceries to buy. living as a single mother in the city was tough, both financially and mentally, but it was worth it. you didn’t want to rely on the boy’s father for anything

while you were caught up in your thoughts, hitomu took your hand in his much smaller one, showing you a bright smile, though it was missing a few teeth. he proudly held up his all might lunchbox and you came to the realization he was trying to imitate his idol. hibiki took your other hand, beginning to mutter about how the three of you should get going before they miss breakfast

after locking up the apartment, you kept a steady grip on their hands, not wanting them to get lost in all the hustle and bustle of the city. the boys seemed to glare at everyone who past you, taking their roles as the ‘men of the house’ very seriously. you, on the other hand, were focused on reviewing the route to their preschool, praying that you didn’t get lost along the way

suddenly, you felt a sharp tug on your elbow, causing you to gasp, preparing to let out a scream before a rough hand clamped over your mouth. hitomi and hibiki gripped tightly to you, calling out to you as the three of you were dragged into a nearby alleyway. you were harshly thrown onto the concrete, wincing when you felt your knees scrape against it, surely drawing blood

hibiki clung to your left side, burying his face in your stomach with a sob, “mommy! are you h-hurt?”

you reached upward and set your hands on his cheeks, “hitomi, take your brother and get out of here right now! please!”

darting your eyes around, you caught sight of hitomi but your stomach dropped down to the pits of hell when you saw what he was doing. hitomi had his hands balled up into fists, holding his all might lunchbox in front of him

“l-leave my m-momma alone!”

“hibiki, stop!”, you screamed, terrified of what could happen next

the man laughed, a cruel, wicked sound, before snatching the prized possession out of your son’s hands and throwing it against the brick wall, smirking when he heard it split open. you pulled yourself off the ground, doing the best you could to ignore the throbbing pain in your skull. swiftly, you wrapped your arms around hitomi’s torso, pulling him behind you

with a tightening of your fist, you laid a punch on the attacker’s face, wanting to scream from how bad it hurt. he wiped the blood off of his nose and gripped you by the collar, slamming his forehead onto yours, causing your vision to become nearly entirely black. you could hear your sons crying but couldn’t speak a word

then, a bright flash of blue brought back your vision, feeling yourself slip from the man’s hold and back to the ground. you didn’t even look back at the attacker, despite his screams of pain and agony. hitomi and hibiki were holding one another, tears running down their horrified faces. quickly, you held the back of their heads and tucked their faces into your chest, hoping to hide whatever gruesome thing was happening behind you

when everything went quiet, you shyly lifted your head, flinching when bright blue eyes stared right back at you. the man in front of you was lanky and tall, scars littering his chest and face, along with staples holding his normal skin together. he looked like he was in so much pain and it made your heart ache

“you good?”, he asked, voice gruff and rougher than any sandpaper

“n-no, but,”, you looked up at him with wide eyes, “thank you. thank you so much.”

he didn’t move or acknowledge your thanks, only walked behind you to pick up the lunchbox that now had a huge crack in it, right over the face of your son’s hero. hitomi pulled away from you reluctantly when he felt a tap on his head. his eyes watered at the sight of his lunchbox but he took it back anyways, clutching it to himself

you slowly stood up, but even that was too much for your head. your knees buckled as soon as you were on your feet and you would have fallen back down again had it not been for the hand that steadied your lower back. everything was turning hazy again and you were sure you head a concussion. the last thing you saw was the concerned eyes of your sons and their mouths opening, surely calling out your name

---

you slowly fluttered your eyes open, feeling yourself relax into the softness of a familiar bed. then, you remembered the events before you fell asleep. lifting yourself forward suddenly, you felt the pain in your head come back but you pushed it away, determined to know how you got home and where your children were

the first place you checked was the living room, heart beating even faster when you didn’t see them, only the mess that had been left from their toy playing session the other day. where were your sons? how did you get home? and where-

a relieved sigh left your lips when you opened the door your sons’ room, only to see them snoring softly in their racecar beds. you had never been happier than that moment. when a cough came from the doorway, you jumped, holding out your hands in defense while the figure chuckled

“geez, chill out jumpy. it’s all good.”

the man from before stared at you with humor in his eyes. a part of you said to hit him until he left your home, to chase him out but, another part was begging you to make him stay. you just had to know who had saved you from something so terrible

taking one last look at your sleeping sons, you joined him in the hallway, keeping the door open out of paranoia. he kept his eyes on you, making you more nervous by the second

“um, thank you for back there. if you hadn’t come-”

“you already thanked me. hit your head that hard, jumpy?”, he teased and you felt your fists clench

“well, im sorry if im a bit uneasy after being attacked in an alleyway!”, you threw up your hands and stormed into your room, hearing him cackle behind you but follow you nonetheless

taking a seat on the edge of your bed, you felt tears begin to pool in your eyes. hurriedly wiping them away with your hand, you could feel the bed dip beside you, but neither of you said anything. you held your face in your hands, softly crying your heart out

dabi winced at the sound, the noise of a mother sobbing bringing back memories he would much rather have forgotten. when he had seen you and your kids get pulled into the alleyway, he had contemplated doing nothing to help, just continuing back to the bar. but, the face that had comforted him throughout the nightmare that was childhood would not leave his mind until he saved you

you peeked out from between your fingers to see a tissue being dangled in front of your face. eyes widening, you reached out to accept it, dabbing at your eyes with the soft tissue

“im a failure of a mother.”, you whispered and dabi quickly placed his hand on your shoulder, turning you to face him

“from what i saw, you punched the dude in the face and managed to protect your kids even after gettin’ the life headbutted outta ya. you’re not a bad mom.”

when he began to stand up, you latched onto the sleeve of his long jacket, head hanging down, “why are you doing this? i don’t even know you.”

and at that moment, all he saw was his mother

“you remind me of someone i know.”

raising your head, you tossed the tissue into your garbage can and looked up at him with a pout. he nearly laughed at how much you looked like a little kid but your splotchy eyes made his heartache

“let me repay you.”, dabi raised his eyebrows with a teasing smirk and you blushed, “not like that! i meant that i could fix your staples, they look like they hurt.”

after thinking for a minute, he nodded, “lead the way, jumpy.”

---

dabi was sat on the edge of your bathtub, watching your every move. when you bent down to take the supplies out of the cabinet, his eyes trailed a bit lower but he shook his head with a smirk. you would so not be into that, he thought

“it’s probably gonna hurt but don’t worry, i took a few nursing courses in college so i don’t think i’ll kill you.”, you joked and it made him feel a bit better that you had calmed down

“that’s good to know, jumpy.”

you stood up and set a hand on your hip, looking down at the man with a look typically reserved for your children, “would you stop calling me that?”

kneeling down in front of the tub, you began to wet a cotton ball with some peroxide while dabi shook his head, “no can do. i don’t know what your name is.”

“well, i don't know yours either.”

“and you’re not gonna- jesus!”, dabi jumped at the sudden sting on his cheek and you quickly apologized, rambling about how it was supposed to hurt less if it was a surprise

the two of you entered a comfortable silence, you gently removing and replacing his staples after disinfecting his raw skin. dabi began to look around your bedroom, at least what he could see from the doorway. no photos of anyone but your kids and someone he assumed was your mom. the right side of the bed looked like it hadn’t been used

“your husband probably won’t be happy to find me here, ya know?”, he was pressing slightly, watching to see any reaction you made but your face stayed neutral as you tossed another cotton ball into the trash

“i don’t have a husband, just me and my sons.”, your eyes held sadness, a different one from earlier, this one was dull and seemed very old

“oh. did he-”

“yes.”, your hold on his skin turned harsher and dabi caught your wrist, meeting your eyes before pushing your hand back

“sorry.”, you muttered, going back to your work while dabi watched you intently

the father of your kids must have been someone pretty stupid to leave the three of you. your sons seemed to love you a ton, considering how their walk home consisted of one of them glaring at him while holding your hand and the other quietly telling him where to go

he remembered looking down at your face while you slept in his arms. you were one of the most beautiful women he had ever laid his eyes on, so it was only natural to think you had someone waiting for you at home. but, the only boys who had your heart where the four-year-olds who wouldn’t leave your side until they fell asleep

he had been so deep in thought that he hadn’t even noticed you had finished up. you were right. dabi felt much better. he could finally move his arms and face without feeling like he was about to rip his skin off. maybe he would come back here again if it ever got too bad

“thanks, jumpy.”, dabi said, watching as you glanced down at the tile floor

“y/n. i’m y/n.”, he hadn’t expected you to tell him your name, figuring your paranoia would still have the better of you

dabi fixed his coat and let you walk him to the front door, taking a glance at you from the side. you were gorgeous but, there was nothing he could do about it. he was one of the most wanted villains in japan. it was a miracle you hadn’t noticed who he was yet

the two of you stood in the entryway, you avoiding his gaze and him refusing to look anywhere else. he would probably never see you again with how his life was going but there was a pull in him, a part of himself he had locked away a long time ago, that wanted him to stay here, to fall in love with you

you felt a rough hand place itself on your cheek and you gasped, locking eyes with the man who had saved your life. dabi leaned in and couldn’t help but notice that you did too, but, all you received was a peck on the forehead

“you don’t have to leave, you know?”, you said and he could see the worry in your eyes, but it wasn’t fear for yourself

“sorry beautiful, but i have some prior engagements to take care of. but, you ain’t gotta worry, nothing like that’s gonna happen to you again.”, furrowing your eyebrows as the man opened your door, you reached out to grab him, but he was faster than you

“see you tomorrow morning, y/n.”

the end.

[katblu42]

Tie Me to the Moon

Installment 4 (of 5) in my Whump Wheel spinning experiment. This spin was for John and gave me Cuddling For Comfort and Cemetery.

It is another Young Tracys fic, but it requires some WARNINGS as it deals with grief/mourning, funerals and of course a cemetery. I'm also tagging for social anxiety, sensory overload and panic attack, although I'm not entirely sure exactly what I'm putting John through. If there's any additional warning or tag I need please let me know (or if these ones don't hit the mark).

Possibly more angst than whump.

The day started early. Scott had spoken with John and Virgil the night before about how much he was relying on them both to help get Alan and Gordon ready, since Grandma and Dad would both have a lot on their plate. So, John had set the alarm for 6am to give them time to wake themselves up before tackling the tinies.

By 9am all five boys were awake and fed and dressed in their Sunday best, shoes shined and hair combed awaiting final inspection before the cars arrived to take them to the church. Normally it would have been Dad who inspected the troops before such an important occasion but, like many other things over the last week or so, today the job was taken on by Scott. He left no stray hair or speck of lint unscrutinised, while their father was barely able to do more than glance at his boys and give Scott a pat on the shoulder as he passed on his way out the front door.

Scott decided it would be best if he went in the lead car with Dad. It was the one that had been fitted with the kiddie seats for Gordon and Alan, and Scott could sit between them and keep them settled. That left John and Virgil to ride in the second car with Grandma. The car trip was mostly silent, but Grandma told them they both looked very smart and did her best to smile despite clear indications she was holding back more tears.

As they neared the church it was impossible not to notice the large number of parked vehicles, some still offloading passengers. John let out a large sigh as their car pulled up in front of the chapel. The soft murmurings and general bustle of the gathering crowd penetrated their insulated little bubble even before the driver opened the door to let Grandma out. Virgil waited until he’d caught John’s eye and received a nod before opening his door so both boys could exit on the same side of the car.

The kindly young driver from the funeral home seemed to be keeping most of the well-meaning mourners at bay as the family gathered and were solemnly led into the church and ushered to the front pew. John tried to focus on the flowers, the quiet organ music, the soft glow of sunlight filtering through stained glass rather than the coffins or even the photos of Mom and Grandpa, and definitely not the endless stream of people filling the rows of seats behind them. It was a slightly tight fit getting all seven of them in the one pew, even with Alan on Dad’s (and later Scott’s) lap, but John was glad of the warm press of Virgil on his left and Gordon on his right.

The service was a simple, no-frills affair with the Minister officiating, but friends and family doing most of the talking. John listened through Dad and Grandma retelling stories he’d heard before, but there were little details revealed that he had never known. The anecdotes shared by the others who stepped up to the pulpit microphone – one of Grandpa’s farming neighbours, and an old friend of Mom’s from school – almost felt like stories about other people. It didn’t feel like they were talking about the people John had lost.

For John losing Grandpa was like a constellation of stars going missing from the night sky. It was Grandpa that had told him people are all made of the same stuff as the stars. He had been a quiet, watchful presence in his life, providing light and joy whenever he looked up and saw that twinkle in Grandpa’s eye. Like Ursa Major and Polaris, Grandpa was always there guiding him, giving direction when needed, but never wanting to overstep or overshadow his parents. Not the brightest light in his orbit, but an important, comforting presence that meant John always knew his place in the world.

Mom had been the sun at the centre of his life, his family, his everything. Without her all the light and warmth was gone from the world. Instead of a regular (though slightly wonky) orbit his world now felt like it was tumbling through space and gravity was constantly shifting. One moment he was too heavy to move and the next he was so light might be flung out into space. Night and day and seasons, years and everything he measured his life by had been connected to his Mom – waking him and tucking him into bed, making sure he dressed warm enough or wore sunscreen or had his raincoat, keeping track of birthdays and holidays and school excursion days were all her.

During the service no one spoke of Mom and Grandpa like that.

There was music. One of Mom’s favourite piano pieces. Virgil had wanted to be able to play it today, but hadn’t been able to bring himself to even sit at the piano, much less play at all since the accident. So a recording had been found and it was played as a backing track to the slideshow that flickered through image after image of happy memories telling part of two life stories.

There were prayers. Reassuring words from the minister about heaven and God’s love, and the love we should all share with each other. John wasn’t sure exactly how he felt about heaven, or God calling Mom and Grandpa home to his kingdom.

There was a poem read out by one of Mom’s work colleagues. It was something about not crying or being sad because they were gone, but being happy because they had lived. Many of the people in the room were obviously ignoring the advice – his immediate family included. There were a good many wet handkerchiefs and tissues in hands, a great deal of suppressed sobs and eye rubbing, and a few sleeves swiped across cheeks before the service was over.

Scott and Dad were among the pall bearers who carried the coffins out of the church and onto the waiting machinery that would take care of their final movements. John and his brothers and Grandma were the first of the mourners to follow in the sombre procession. Only a small number of people were permitted to follow the hovering gurneys across the grass and through the little cemetery to the waiting square-sided pits. Just family and a few close friends to witness the way the machinery slowly and smoothly lowered each coffin down into the earth, hear the minister recite the final ritual words, and each place a flower or a sprinkling of dirt atop the coffins in a last goodbye.

The rest of the large crowd had been encouraged to make their way into the Sunday School hall where the wake was to take place. Refreshments had been generously laid out on the tables inside. More photographs of both lost loved ones were on display throughout the room, along with so many more flowers and a large number of cards. But many of the people in attendance that day were still milling about outside the church buildings when John and his family returned through the cemetery for the wake.

John’s feet dragged as he approached the gentle hubbub of mingling friendly faces with sympathetic expressions. He could pick out people he knew well if he let himself concentrate, but the sheer number of individuals he was heading towards was a little overwhelming. They didn’t make it inside the hall before the onslaught began. Almost everyone wanted to say something, speak of sympathy, tell a story, offer “any help you need.” So many wanted to reach out, hold a hand or squeeze an arm, some came in for full-on hugs, cheek kisses and loud, teary exclamations of how sad it all was.

John lost his Dad and Grandma to the throng faster than he thought possible, but before he could be swept up in it himself he was thrown a lifeline. There was a familiar presence by his side, a brush of hand against hand, or specifically pinky against pinky – a request and an offer. John grabbed hold of Virgil’s hand and held fast, tethering himself to his brother like an anchor.

He wasn’t entirely sure how it had happened or how long it had taken, but eventually they all made it inside the Sunday School hall. John was only aware of Virgil’s hand in his, the rest was a blur of faces, voices, bodies. Virgil dealt with anyone who stopped them to offer their personal condolences, listening to what they had to say and responding politely but managing to keep the interactions brief and shielding John from most of the attention. Somehow they made their way to a cluster of chairs where Grandma and Dad were seated, Alan in his father’s lap, still accepting condolences from well-wisher after well-wisher.

John was aware of sweat beading on his forehead as Virgil told him to take a seat next to Grandma for a bit, and then his brother disappeared into the crowd to go and fetch Grandma a cup of tea. He wiped sweaty palms on his trousers as he tried to look around the room. His eyes fell on Scott standing a few feet away, taking all the sympathetic social interactions in his stride, nodding, smiling, shaking hands, accepting embraces.

John’s mouth was dry and he wondered if he could make it across the room to grab a drink from the trestle table against the wall, but there was a sea of bodies he’d have to negotiate in between. For a moment his vision blurred and the vague images of people swam in a dizzying fashion before he could find something to focus on. Alan had obviously grown tired of the hair ruffling and cheek pinching and wriggled free of his Dad’s grasp, and was now trying to run through the small gaps between grown up pairs of legs. Gordon was keeping an eye on him – in between snaffling more cakes and cookies from the food table. John watched the terrible two until they were obscured by too many featureless figures.

Despite the late-winter-cool of the day, the church hall felt uncomfortably warm. The large space with its vaulted ceiling, tall, wide windows and polished wooden floorboards felt dark and gloomy and so very crowded. And the non-stop undercurrent of murmuring voices appeared to build in an unbearable crescendo John could not shut out. Too many bodies, too many voices, too much, too close . . . he needed space, he needed air, he had to get out!

Virgil saw his brother get up and hurry a little unsteadily to the exit as he came back with Grandma’s tea. He tried to keep an eye on the red-head so he could follow, but he had to excuse himself to Grandma and Dad, make his way over to Scott, politely interrupt the conversation and whisper in his big brother’s ear.

“John’s bolted. I’m going after him.”

Scott acknowledged with a nod as his eyes darted to the door, already closed again after John’s escape. Virgil wasted no more time in following, but once outside it took him a moment to figure out which direction John had taken.

John had no particular destination in mind, he just needed to get away. His feet carried him across the gravel driveway and through the grass without him registering the change of surface. He ran through the little cemetery without seeing the tombstones he passed, slowing only when he approached the boundary marked with a low stone wall before a neat, tall hedge. Unable to go any farther he turned and wobbled dizzily. His vision narrowed leaving dull blurred impressions of light and shadow. He heard nothing but the pounding of his heartbeat in his ears, and he sank down to the ground, sitting heavily, knees bent and pulled up towards his chest. He scrunched his eyes tightly closed and slammed his hands over his ears, trying to block it all out.

Virgil approached slowly, but without trying to hide the sound of his footsteps. He lowered himself to sit facing John, resisting the strong urge to reach out and touch him. Seeing his brother in such distress clawed at his heart. He couldn’t let him struggle through this alone.

“John?” He kept his voice quiet and hoped he could be heard despite the hands staying firmly pressed against ears. “I’m here with you. Just me. No one else is around.”

There was no noticeable response.

“If you can hear me, I need you to try and slow your breathing down a bit, John. Deep breath in,“ and Virgil inhaled, “and out nice and slow.” Virgil waited for a second, watching John’s shallow, ragged breathing for any change. “In,” another inhaled breath, “and out.”

As Virgil continued repeating the instruction like a mantra John’s breathing gradually began to even out into slower, deeper, more controlled breaths. He wasn’t sure, but he thought John’s vice-like grip over his ears might be relaxing a little too.

“You’re doing great, John. Keep focusing on your breathing. Keep listening. Hear the breeze whispering through the leaves? Did you hear those birds?”

John did hear the cry of a bird overhead, and an answering call a little farther away as his hands drifted away from his head. As he lowered them to limply rest on the ground beside him he heard a gentle gust of wind rustle the hedges, and he registered that it did indeed sound a bit like a whisper.

“The sun’s broken free of the clouds. Can you feel it on your face, John? Can you feel the wind in your hair? You do realise there’s dirt and leaves beneath your fingertips, right?”

John turned his focus where his brother’s voice directed it, feeling the warmth on the left side of his face, and the breeze toying with his hair. There was indeed leaf litter and slightly damp dirt beneath his flexing fingers.

“If you’re ready to open your eyes you’ll see the moon’s out. I like the way the moon looks in the day. Against the blue of the sky the shadows make it look almost see-through.”

Translucent. That would have been a better word for what Virgil was trying to say. The thought flitted through John’s mind as he let his eyes drift open and scan the sky until they latched onto the gibbous moon framed by scattered cumulous clouds. He was also aware there was irony in the way his brother was effectively using the moon to anchor him, to bring him back to earth and ground him in the here and now.

Virgil had stopped talking, leaving the wind and occasional twitters and cries of the birds to fill the silence as John watched the clouds dance around the moon. He could feel his brother’s eyes on him almost as tangibly as he could feel the damp earth he was sitting on and the cool stone of the wall at his back. Now feeling much calmer he took a deep breath and brought his gaze down from the sky to meet the concern and compassion contained in those warm, brown eyes.

“Welcome back.” A hint of a smile played across Virgil’s face as he spoke.

A quiet moment stretched between them. No words spoken, but information passing from brother to brother through eye contact alone.

Content that John was no longer caught in a spiral he couldn’t escape on his own, Virgil glanced over his shoulder towards the Sunday School hall.

“I should go back, but you can stay here if you want. I’ll come and find you when it’s time to go. Just don’t wander off or anything.”

John didn’t speak as he chanced his own glance back toward the ongoing wake. Then, as Virgil made a move to get up and leave, John reached out and grabbed his wrist.

“Stay. Please?”

Virgil stopped and stared first at the fingers digging into his wrist, then into pleading, desperate aquamarine. He simply nodded and adjusted his position so he was sitting next to John, their shoulders touching. John loosened his grip on Virgil’s wrist but didn’t let go, so John’s arm looped around his knees and Virgil’s arm crossed his body to keep the connection. There was an almost imperceptible hesitation, but then simultaneously John leaned in towards his brother and Virgil wrapped his arm around John, pulling them into a secure embrace.

John finally let go of Virgil’s wrist, bringing his arm in close, grabbing a fistful of Virgil’s suit jacket and snuggling closer into his brother’s chest. This enabled Virgil to employ both arms in the hug. John rarely cuddled up like this with anyone, but all the times he could remember doing so were with Mom. His next intake of breath hitched at the realisation, and Virgil held a little tighter. The threat of tears pricked at the corners of his eyes, and he was grateful that, while not the same as a cuddle from Mom, he was still able to find this level of safety and comfort in the arms of someone who loved him.

“I want her back,” he sobbed, letting the tears flow and drip onto Virgil’s jacket.

“Yeah. Me too.”

John heard the tears in Virgil’s voice, but he already knew his brother felt the same absence in their hug.

Neither boy could say how long they stayed out there, huddled together, holding tight while hot tears streaked their cheeks. Time may as well have stood still for all it mattered. Nothing else was important, just the feeling that this moment, however sad, was there’s alone to share until Scott came and found them to tell them it was time to go home.

[onyxiana-is-obsessed]

Disillusioned | Mirio Togata x Reader

AN: This one’s got a lot going on! Normally, I have the reader’s synopsis (like age, quirk, and hero name) at the top, but this time, I’m gonna put it at the end of the story! Pronouns: She/her. Length: 4.3k words.

PART 2 HERE!

WARNINGS: Anxiety attack, gore (I describe a murder in detail) POOR TAMAKI TT^TT I'M CRUEL.

ANGST! PURE ANGST UP AHEAD! I’M LOOKING TO BREAK HEARTS HERE!

Summary: Mirio and Nejire find Tamaki during a panic attack and he tells them it’s your fault! But you’re innocent and your own boyfriend won’t believe you.

(y/f/n) was dating one of the big three, Mirio Togata, and pretty much everyone knew about it. She seemed to bring the best out in him. Everyone always mentioned how they had rushed the relationship, they only knew each other for a few months before they started dating. At first, both Nejire and Tamaki thought the same, but as they got to know the (f/n), their minds were changed. They didn't believe that anymore, the two were practically meant to be.

So what went wrong?

(f/n) was always the sweetest, she was encouraging, supportive, and always striving to bring out the best in her friends. She was always cheerful, doing her best to bring smiles to her friends' faces. Whether it would be with silly stories, terrible (or good) jokes, with compliments- it didn't matter. It seemed like her goal in life was to make her friends laugh and smile.

So why? Why was she doing this right now?

"I-I c-can't!" Tamaki yelled, tears spilling down his cheeks that were bright red, his heart beating faster than ever before as he clung to (f/n)'s arm. "P-please do-don't ma-make me!" He begged, tear-stained cheeks getting redder if it was possible. The (h/c) haired girl scoffed as she walked Tamaki to a nearby alley.

"God, get a hold of yourself!" Shoving his hands off of her arm, she pushed him, making his back hit the wall. He cowered away from her, pulling his shaking arms into his chest in an effort to comfort himself.

(f/n) had brought Tamaki to a nearby cafe, telling him she just wanted to hangout. He went, against his better judgment, where she'd asked him to bring her some napkins, in a rather full cafe. On his way back, he accidentally bumped into a waitress carrying drinks, which immediately spilled. His anxiety spiked, apologizing profusely as everyone stared at him. He looked towards (f/n) who stared at him in shock... no... her face showed shock. Her eyes showed amusement. He panicked, frozen, unable to move or run. The waitress asked if he was ok multiple times, but he wasn't able to answer. Finally, (f/n) approached the two, hiding Tamaki behind her, holding his hand, as she explained to the waitress that he was just a bit shy. She quickly took him away from the scene, where he was thankful. That's not where it ended though.

Then she demanded he goes back in and gets their orders. He was terrified, already being humiliated once. When he refused, she commanded him to go back and his anxiety built up too much, finally ending in a breakdown.

So here they were. The girl glaring at the taller male, who was crying, shaking, terrified out of his mind. This wasn't her... she was so supportive and she... always protected him like Mirio. So why was she doing this to him?

"I'm leaving." She muttered, turning to exit the alleyway. Tamaki's heart sank as he fell to the ground and grabbed her hand.

"N-no! W-wait! D-do-don't go!" His chest was tight, it felt as if there was rope tightening around him, constricting his breathing. Everything was starting to close in, the walls and the sky. He couldn't breathe, his heart was beating so fast it felt like it was going to explode, his mind was fuzzy, his body shaking uncontrollably, and the only source of comfort was (f/n). B-but she was leaving him!

She scoffed, a scowl taking over her face as she kicked his shoulder, knocking him back. The look of pure fear in his eyes would've made anyone stop and wrap their arms around him. But not (f/n), she just glared at him.

"You're pathetic." With that, she left. Sobs racked Tamaki's body as he clutched his chest. His extremely shaky hand reached for his phone, where he desperately searched for Mirio's name. Due to his panic, it took him longer than usual. But he finally got it.

"Hey, Tamaki!" His cheerful voice came through. All Tamaki could do in return was let out a loud sob, his words caught in his throat. Hearing his distressed best friend, Mirio's mind immediately went into defensive mode as he tried to get his friend to talk. "Tamaki?! W-what's wrong?! Where are you?!"

"H-h-help!" Was all the dark-haired boy could say as he covered his face with his arm, feeling so pathetic, alone, and terrified.

~**~

(f/n) frowned as she checked her phone again, not one text, NOT ONE. Mirio, Tamaki, and Nejire all hadn't responded to her all weekend. She tried, desperately, to talk to them, but no one responded. It even seemed as if Tamaki had blocked her. She shook her head. Maybe it was wrong, they were busy students, with their work studies and everything. So they didn't always have time to talk to her, but she'd been busy this weekend too. She'd been helping her (parent/guardian) out with some errands and sadly, she didn't have time to go physically meet Mirio. She tried calling him a few times and every single call was sent to voicemail.

She walked to school, putting on a smile, in an attempt to make herself feel better. She wanted to calm herself, but she had a bad feeling in the pit of her stomach. She went to her locker, normally where her friends would be waiting for her. They weren't there. She didn't have a class with them, since she was a second year.

She finally saw them at lunch, sitting in their usual spots. She immediately felt her heart calm when she saw Mirio, he just always did that to her. No matter how bad her days would be, no matter what turmoil she felt in her heart, he always soothed it. Just... his wonderful smile. She approached them, but her smile was replaced with a confused look when she saw Tamaki look up at her and immediately start shaking.

"T-Tamaki? Wh-what's wrong?" Both Nejire and Mirio turned with an icy glare, that shook the girl to her core. "H-hey g-guys. Di-did something happen to Tamaki?" As she tried to approach the terrified male, Nejire stood up, holding her arm out to (f/n).

"Don't come closer." She practically growled.

"W-what's wrong?" Mirio stood up, a glare of his own trained on the young girl.

"How could you?"

"What are you talking about? What's happening?" (f/n)'s confusion only frustrated the two standing in front of her. "Tamaki?" The (e/c) eyed girl look towards her shy friend, but her vision was blocked by both Nejire and Mirio.

"Stay away from him."

"What happened?!" (f/n) finally yelled, having enough with the cryptic messages.

"You know! You took him to a cafe on Friday, humiliated him, and then just left him alone in an alley during a panic attack!" Mirio yelled, but a quiet yell. He knew the last thing Tamaki needed was more eyes on him. (f/n)'s confusion morphed into horror.

"What?! No, I didn't!" She argued.

"Why would Amajiki lie?" Nejire asked, her hands on her hips.

"I-I'm not saying he lied! I-I'm just s-saying it wasn't me." The girl stuttered, scared of the two in front of her.

"Where were you on Friday?" Mirio asked.

"After school, I went to help my (parent/guardian) with (insert errand), I was gone all weekend. I told you guys!"

"Amajiki says you asked to go to a cafe before that." Nejire countered.

"I didn't do anything! I haven't seen him since lunch on Friday."

"Don't lie to me, (f/n)!"

"I'm not lying, Mirio! Tam-" The girl tried to go around the two to approach the male, who let out a squeak, making his two friends grab her arms and push her away.

"O-ok!" (f/n) yelled, as panic spread through her body. She held her hands out defensively, as if to protect herself, and backed up, pulling her arms from their grip. "I-I won't g-go near him."

"Why did you do it?" Mirio asked, the glare still in his eyes. She only looked up at him, desperation and fear in her eyes.

"I-I didn't do anything." Both Nejire and Mirio could still remember how badly Tamaki was sobbing. It took them hours to calm him down before he could partially explain what happened. They'd never seen him in that state, not only did it infuriate them, but it scared them too.

"Stay away from him and me too," Mirio said.

"Mi-"

"Stay away." He warned. The girl looked away in anger, clenching her fists as she ran out of the cafeteria, bringing attention to herself. Of course... no one went after her.

"Sh-she's gone, Amajiki," Nejire said, in a much calmer voice, rubbing Tamaki's back, who was still shaken up from the incident on Friday.

~**~

The next few days, (f/n) didn't bother the group. They'd only seen her in the cafeteria where she came to buy lunch and left. Well... not really even lunch. She only bought (bag of chips/fruit), nothing to keep her healthy. They could see how what had happened affected her. She was pale, her eyes were red, she wouldn't look at anyone, and no matter how much her other friends tried to reach out, she'd shrug them off.

Of course, Mirio felt just as awful. He was practically in love with the girl. She made him better. All her support and encouragement made them better. Sure, she encouraged Tamaki, but never to push him to extremes. And she would, just like in the cafe, hide his body with her own if he ever felt overwhelmed. Now, she was just gone. It all ended so suddenly, so viciously.

If only... they'd paid more attention.

~**~

On Wednesday, the three saw (f/n) walking through the hallway. She didn't look at them, but they could see her face. She was pale, she had dark circles under her puffy red eyes, and her nose was red, as if she'd been constantly wiping it with tissues. She... looked so broken, but neither of them approached her.

However, on Thursday was a completely different story. They were getting ready for class, when (f/n) came rushing through. They all looked up at her, shocked when she looked back at them. She had a cruel smile on her face, her eyes locked with Tamaki, only getting bigger. His eyes widened in fear, he recognized the monstrous look in them! Before anyone could stop her, she zoomed past them, but not without the three noticing she had something in her hand.

What... was it?

~**~

The next week and a half, no one saw of her. Neither of the Big 3, none of her friends, no one. It's safe to say that the Big 3 were beyond shocked when they saw the news Saturday night.

"A young UA student by the name of (y/f/n) was found in an alley by two young women. The girl's body had been completely mutilated in a large garbage bag. Her murderer cut off her fingers, cutting them into multiple pieces, cutting her arms and legs at every joint, and cutting her torso into numerous pieces. Her head was decapitated and thrown into a separate bag to seemingly preserve it. Here's is what the witness had to say." The news anchor reported.

"I was walking past the alley with my sister. My quirk allows me to sense if something's wrong and when I saw that trash bag, I just knew something was wrong. I went to open it," The woman choked back a sob. "I o-opened it... and the first thing... I saw was the poor baby's head. Sh-she was so young! HOW COULD THEY?!" Her sister was right next to her, crying. The news reporter next to them continued to explain the situation.

"The police were called onto the scene immediately, where they called the forensics team. Although, young (l/n)'s body had been mutilated, it seemed as if she had bruises and cuts that had healed over a period of two weeks. Police suspect that she may have been kidnapped and tortured by a villain. According to her teachers and (parents/guardian), she had been here the whole time. Police are currently on the lookout for a villain with a quirk to clone or transform into someone else. That's all, back to you, Yuno."

Tamaki, Nejire, and Mirio's entire world shattered. Especially Mirio. It... wasn't her. The girl that hurt Tamaki, it... wasn't (f/n).

So who?

The school offered grief counseling for all of (f/n)'s classmates and friends. Mirio, Tamaki, and Nejire were also offered the same and they chose to accept.

~A few Days Later~

The three were walking to (f/n)'s favorite cafe (not the one where she humiliated Tamaki). On the way there, Mirio spotted a familiar head of (h/l) (h/c) hair, pointing it out to his friends. The three immediately followed after the figure, who realized she was being followed. She took off, making the three chase her.

She entered an alley, where she zigzagged through the buildings, until she finally came to a halt. Her stamina must've been something else, because all of that running and her breathing was just fine.

"(f/n)?!" Mirio yelled, as the three stopped behind her, exhausted from the running. The girl turned around, with a bright smile on her face.

"Mirio! What's up?" Almost immediately the blond teared up, attempting to approach the girl, who's smile fell.

"Tch tch," She treated him like a dog. "Don't touch." Her (e/c) glanced at Tamaki, who could feel the fear return to his body. This was definitely the girl who humiliated him. "Tamaki baby! I missed you!" Her cheerful voice held a bit of amusement in the back. Slowly the cheerful look melted into that of lust... or what seemed like it. "Not gonna lie Tamaki, you're cuter on your knees, especially with that look of fear in your eyes... ooh that riles me up!"

"You're not (f/n)!" Nejire declared as the three took a step back. (f/n) would've never said something like that, something so disgusting.

"I'm not? Well... then who am I?" The three were defensive, especially Tamaki.

"Who are you?"

"Well, I think it's pretty obvious, I'm (f/n)!"

"No, you're not. (f/n) would've never done something like that." Mirio declared.

"Oh yeah? You seem like you know, (y/f/n) so well... but ever heard of a disguise? Did you know, some people can lie." She mocked. "Now, I'm well aware the term is new to you, so let me explain it. Some people, not all, can do this thing called lying. That's where they hide the truth from others. Ever wonder... if (f/n) was a liar?" She laughed.

"No, I would know it. She... never lied to me." Mirio said, with full confidence.

"Oh yeah? You didn't seem to believe her when she told you, truthfully, that she wasn't the one who hurt Tamaki." Mirio's heart clenched at those words. Not only him, Tamaki and Nejire too. "You know, Suneater. I thought you'd be smart enough to tell the difference. I guess anger isn't the only thing that can cloud your judgment. Fear can too."

"What did you do to her?" Mirio demanded.

"(f/n)? Oh, sorry. That doesn't concern you."

"Where is (f/n)-chan?" Nejire asked.

"Well, you heard on the news right? I mean if you really want to see her, I can try to help, but I guarantee that you'll throw up was you see the liquid goo that she's become." The villain laughed. "You won't even recognize her. Well... maybe the head. Did you know they placed her head in a separate bag AFTER they cleaned it? We wanted the police to be able to recognize her." Mirio clenched his fist- he was livid!

"Calm down, Lemillion. You can't fight me." She warned.

"Watch me!" He countered.

"Mirio Togata, hero name: Lemillion. Quirk: Permeation. Neijire Hado, hero name: Nejire Chan. Quirk: Wave motion. Tamaki Amajiki, hero name: Suneater. Quirk: Manifest." The villain stated.

"So you know about us, big whoop," Mirio responded, still glaring at his "ex". "Plenty of other people know us too! That doesn't stop us from kicking their asses!"

"Now tell me, what's my quirk? Maybe if you know, you might have a chance at defeating me."

"Probably cloning or something," Nejire answered, readying herself.

"Maybe. Maybe my quirk lets me create clones, maybe it lets me alter my appearance, maybe it lets me bend time, space, and reality. Maybe, I'm not even real. Maybe you're in a coma Mirio and you can't even distinguish reality from fantasy."

"We're here!" Nejire responded. "Amajiki and I know we're here."

"Yeah, you know you're real. How can Mirio be sure? Maybe all of you are in a coma and you're having your version of this dream, or I've brought you here in fantasy land to punish you. Or maybe," she smiled at Mirio as she touched her chin. "I've always been a villain." It was a hard thought to admit, but all three were just so damn sure (f/n) wasn't a villain! She couldn't be! She just wasn't like that.

"H-how dare you hurt an innocent girl like that!" Mirio raged, followed by Tamaki and Nejire. The villain scoffed, rolling her eyes.

"Maybe if you were a better boyfriend, maybe if you were better friends- better HEROES, maybe, just maybe... you'd notice that your precious (f/n) was being targeted by villains, but no." Her icy glare and words struck their hearts at an indescribable level. "I think you should just give up on your dreams now. Any other hero would've been able to tell that wasn't (f/n). I would know, I've tried that trick a few times and only you fools fell for it. Nicely done, if I do say so myself." She saw that look of anguish cross their face again. "Oh! Don't feel bad now! You helped me accomplish my goals! Hey! Maybe you'd be better villains than heroes! Ever think of that?"

"W-we'd never!" Nejire responded through her tears.

"As I said, I guess fear and anger both cloud judgment. Maybe if you weren't so angry at what I'd done to Tamaki, you'd be able to see that your (f/n) was telling the truth and that she was in danger." The villain repeated.

"You killed her." Nejire remarked.

"Let me tell you what really happened, Big 3."

~Flashback~

(f/n) ran out of the lunchroom and kept running until she was out of the school building. So what if she missed some classes? She didn't really care. She... didn't do anything! She was innocent! Why would she ever hurt Tamaki? He was her friend, she always protected him. The girl rubbed her arm as she walked down the street, tears streaming down her cheeks. As she walked past an alley, an arm pulled her in.

Her mouth was covered when she tried to scream as she was pulled deeper into the alley. Once the assailant was happy with the distance between them and the main street, he pressed the girl against the wall, letting her look at him.

(f/n)'s eyes widened as she stared at glowing indigo eyes. The man was taller than her, extremely handsome. He had long black hair, pale skin, and a really, really pretty face. His hand gently wiped away her tears, but the girl winced at the touch.

"Shh, it's ok, love." He whispered, leaning in closer. He was already pressed up against her, it didn't seem like he could get closer. She couldn't really tell what he was wearing, but out of the corner of her eyes, all she saw was black. His clothes matched the darkness of the alley. No doubt... he was this close to conceal her body. More tears spilled from her eyes as she felt something stab her side. She looked down to see a syringe and immediately attempted to use her quirk to push the male away. "I don't think so, beautiful." Slowly, her vision went dark and she fell into the male. The villain smirked as he picked her up and carried her away.

~**~

"You're awake." (f/n) heard, making her heart sink. She opened her eyes and looked down, she was strapped to a bed, with that same guy leaning against the wall.

"P-please... do-don't hurt me." She begged, her voice hoarse. He smiled, approaching her and gently running his thumb across her lips.

"Trust me, I wouldn't. But that's not up to me. Now... maybe that could change if you joined us."

"U-Us?"

"Our little villain group." (f/n) shook her head as tears slipped down her eyes.

"N-never!"

"Listen, hero. I know your dream is to be like All Might, but even he knows when to quit. Look at you, I can do anything to you. Now if you were to become a villain... I could let you out right now. Work with us and we'll keep you safe. At least... we'd believe you if you told us you didn't hurt someone." (f/n)'s mind immediately went to the incident between her and Mirio earlier.

"I-I didn't hurt him."

"I know, miss pretty, I know. Now look, a villain- a stranger- believes you but not your boyfriend. What a shame." His finger slid up to her forehead, moving her hair out of her face and pushing it away from her neck.

"Pl-please don-"

"Shh..." He whispered, watching as the determination from her eyes died. No one would come to save her, she knew it. He kissed her temple as a sob escaped her lips. "Don't cry now, I like it when beautiful girls like you do that. I usually like my victims on their knees." He laughed, making her face contort as she tried to move her head away from his finger. His tongue slid across his lips as he leaned closer. "Don't worry. You won't even know what happened."

She felt something pinch her arm and knew it was another syringe. Her vision started to get darker and her hope faded along with it. No one was coming to save her. No one.

"I love you Mirio... p-please h-help me..."

The man pressed a kiss against the unconscious student's cheekbone, her tears slipping into his mouth. Slowly, his body transformed into her.

"Now I can look just as cute as you." He whispered, walking out of the room as another man entered with a multitude of tools.

~**~

Mirio could feel his stomach turn as he heard the villain explain what really happened to (f/n). It was clear that she enjoyed their turmoil because when she saw their faces she laughed.

"Now, maybe I'm lying about all of that. Maybe I'm (f/n). Maybe (f/n) never existed. Maybe what you all dealt with was just a clone, you don't know what my quirk is. Well, you can't be sure. I'm a villain, you can't trust what I'm saying. I don't think any of you three will ever know if that body the police found was a clone or actually (f/n). I'll let you suffer from that forever." Silence reigned through the alleyway, making the villain laugh as he turned and walked away.

It didn't matter... either way... they were too late.

What if? What if they'd believed (f/n)? What if Tamaki had looked into the real one's eyes? What if... they'd just trusted her word. In her entire time being around them, she never gave them a reason to not trust her. So why did they just... throw her away like that? If... if they hadn't... what if she was still alive?

"Hey, guys!" The girl skipped towards them. "I got a great joke! Wanna hear it?"

"Of course!" Mirio responded with a bright smile.

"What did one plate say to the other?"

"Wh-what?" Tamaki asked.

"Dinner's on me." The three burst into laughter, watching as (f/n)'s eyes lit up with joy. This was what she loved. Making people laugh and smile, it fueled her own happiness.

**

"GUYYYYSSSS!" (f/n) squealed running to the three, jumping into Mirio's arms. "GUESS WHAT!"

"What's up, (f/n)?" Nejire asked, with a smile of her own.

"I passed my test!!! I got 100%!" She cheered, her face red from the happiness. They all looked down at her, their genuine smiles showing nothing but adoration for her.

"You did great, babe!" Mirio added, kissing her cheek.

**

The group sat at the table, waiting for (f/n) who had told them not to buy any food today. They were just talking to themselves when they saw the radiant girl skipping towards them.

"Someone's happy!" Nejire commented, making the girl nod.

"I made you guys lunch today!"

"Oh, you didn't have to!" The blue-haired girl responded as (f/n) slid them their boxes. they opened it up, smiling wide. It was their favorite food.

"Woah! Babe, you really didn't have to." Mirio commented.

"I know, but you guys are such great friends. I love you all and I wanted to do something nice for you." She smiled. Tamaki took a bite, smiling shyly.

"It's great, (f/n)."

"I'm glad!"

**

The three stared at the empty seat in front of them at the lunch table. Usually... that's where (f/n) would sit. She'd sit there and tell them jokes or something. She always kept the conversation going and truth be told, even Tamaki would agree, her smile... her radiance... it was brighter than Mirio's. She was truly a blessing, something God or the Universe, whatever, had sent to them. They... just didn't realize it. Not until it was too late.

Full Name: (y/f/n) Age: 16 Quirk: (y/q) Hero Name: (h/n)

Full Name: Unknown Age: 19 Quirk: Morph; able to morph into any animal or human granted they can see them clearly. Transformation can be perfected once the user has acquired the target’s DNA. Villain Name: Anonymous/Anon Villain Rank: S

[caught-in-a-seesaw-stigma]

Map of the Soul Drabble #3

Drabble #3 - One Potato, Two Potato

Pairing: Seokjin x reader (platonic)

Genre: Angst, Fluff

Word Count: 6.5K+

Warning: Death of a family member (cancer), cursing, bad jokes/puns, funerals, family drama

-----------------

Even though the sky was clear and sunny, your body felt cold and cloudy. Warm rays of sunlight streamed through stained glass across the collection of potted plants and floral arrangements in the room, all of it surrounding the varnished black walnut casket which sat center stage at the front. After a long 7 years of fighting against an invisible enemy, your grandmother finally succumbed to cancer, taking part of your heart to the heavens with her. You gathered together with your family to say your final goodbyes, and not a soul in the funeral home could get your tears to stop falling.

“I’m worried about her,” you heard your father whisper behind you. “She hasn’t stopped crying since last night.”

“I know, honey,” your mother responded. “But you know how close they were. You can’t just expect her to be okay overnight. It will take some time for her to heal.”

“If only Seokjin would get here sooner,” your father grumbled. “He always knows how to cheer her up.”

There was truth behind your father’s grumbles. Your favorite cousin, Seokjin, never failed to bring a smile to your face with his clever quips and his never-ending assault of cheesy jokes. In the midst of your current despair, however, you doubted whether he would be able to pull you out of the pit of misery in which you were currently drowning.

You pulled yet another tissue from the box in your hands and swiped at the ceaseless drops spilling past your eyelashes. You frowned slightly at the darkened wet spots dappled across the fabric of your pink floral romper.

Ugh, I knew I shouldn’t have worn mascara.

“Oh, look, honey,” your mother whispered while tapping your shoulder. “I think the Kims just arrived.”

You sniffled and wiped at your nose before turning toward the entrance, and sure enough, the entire Kim clan was filtering into the funeral home. Your aunt waved in your direction, and your mother sent back an equally enthusiastic wave in response. In mere moments, the two of them were embracing and chattering away in hushed voices about incoming relatives, friends, and the big dinner taking place after the funeral. Your father patted your shoulder, encouraging you to keep out of their gossipy affairs.

You sighed heavily and scanned the room, looking for Seokjin’s broad shoulders and tousled chestnut locks, but he was nowhere to be seen. Discouraged, you turned back to gaze at the myriad floral arrangements landscaping the front of the room. As luck would have it, everyone knew your grandmother remarkably well. Every bouquet was in a shade of pink and the delightful rosy hues transformed the dreary box into a chest containing a precious treasure. It was soothing to look upon the roses, carnations, lilies, and other flowers all lending their delicate fragrance and beauty to the somber scene before you.

A side door creaked open to reveal two funeral home workers carrying in two more large floral arrangements. One was decked out in the signature pink motif, but the other was a ghastly collection of yellow and purple blooms with a hideous printed bow and gold foil wrapping around the bottom of the pot.

“Where did that monstrosity come from?” uttered a voice from your left. “It’s an eyesore.”

You turned just in time to raise your eyebrows as a newly bleached blonde Seokjin slid into the seat next to you with a scowl on his face. His rosy button up shirt was accented with a fuchsia pocket square and tie combo, and you smiled at his strict adherence to your grandmother’s signature color. Pink just accentuated Seokjin’s personality perfectly; it was light, comforting, and full of life. The horrid yellow and purple creation invading the flower arrangements was an affront to Seokjin’s very nature, and you could tell he was not having it.

“Help me hide that hideous thing in the back,” Seokjin requested with a pat to your knee. “Before anyone sees it.”

The urgency in his voice drew a small smile on your lips and you readily followed him to the front of the room. You both made a big show of rearranging the flowers and potted plants, and through a little misdirection, you hid the sore thumb behind a mountain of pink roses and lilies. With the funeral faux pas handled, you and Seokjin meandered back to your seats and sighed with relief.

“Glad that’s done,” Seokjin smirked. “High five for teamwork!”

With his large hand lifted just above your head, you grinned and gladly granted him the high five. Seokjin’s comforting presence seemed to have cleared some of the gloomy rain clouds which refused to dissipate in the wake of your grandmother’s death. More people began filing into the funeral home and Seokjin placed his arm around you and drew you close.

“I still can’t believe she’s gone,” he whispered. “It doesn’t feel real.”

“My heartbreak feels real,” you countered. “I was just talking to her the other day, Jinnie.”

“I know,” he pouted. “I called her a few days ago too. I was still missing a few of her recipes for the family cookbook. We’re going to have to dig through her stuff at the house to figure out the rest on our own.”

“Whatever you need, Jinnie,” you promised. “I’m just glad she was able to share some of those things with us. Don’t worry. We will find the rest. I don’t know what I would do if we could never taste those things again.”

“It’ll take some practice to get them just right,” Seokjin sighed. “But we really need to find the rest. Between you and me, I think we can handle it. Right, goguma?”

“Awwww, goguma,” you sniffled. “Grandma won’t ever be able to call me a sweet potato again.”

“I know,” Seokjin said comfortingly. “But I’m still here, and I will continue to call you goguma from now on.”

“Thank you, Jinnie,” you smiled. “Does that mean I get to call you gamja?”

“But of course,” Seokjin chuckled. “What good is a sweet potato without her savory counterpart? Together, we can find those last remaining secret recipes.”

“Typical Grandma,” you mused. “Never wanting to give away the best recipes. Not even the secret things she would do aside from the written recipe!”

“I know,” Seokjin huffed. “Remember what she would tell us instead?”

Seokjin rearranged his face to take on the look of an old lady with a smirk.

“And that’s all,” Seokjin creaked out in a faux granny voice. “Unless you want to get a little fancy.”

“And of course, she always got fancy,” you seethed. “Sneaky old lady.”

“The sneakiest,” Seokjin agreed. “I guess I have to take over that position now.”

“I’ll fight you for it,” you challenged with a smile and you both put up your dukes.

Your quiet giggles were interrupted by a grim faced man in a gray suit tapping the podium microphone. A cacophony of feedback and groans from the guests erupted across the room, culminating in a clearing of the throat and a somber “Pardon me.”

“Pardon me,” the somber man repeated. “Will everyone please take their seats? We will begin the service in a few minutes.”

Everyone crowded into the long pews, and soon, only standing room was available. The beloved matriarch of your family certainly touched an abundance of lives in her time on Earth, and that sentiment carried you forth as the service began. Family members and friends took turns reading words of comfort and praise, and you and Seokjin even contributed a reading of your grandmother’s favorite poem. When all was said and done, the service continued on to the cemetery where your grandmother was finally laid to rest beside your already departed grandfather.

----------------------------

“Kim Seokjin, I’m warning you!” you growled. “If you fuck up my hair, I will literally murder you.”

Seokjin’s barely contained guffaws spilled out as squeaks and squawks as he continued to apply pink dye to the bleached sections of your hair before folding them up with foil.

“Relax,” Seokjin chuckled as he continued working. “This isn’t my first time doing someone’s hair. You’re in good hands.”

You grumbled slightly as Seokjin continued to foil wrap more blonde sections of hair around your face, but you relaxed when you realized how focused Seokjin was. After questioning his new blonde look, he explained his clever scheme to pay tribute to your grandmother by dying his treasured brown tresses to a brilliant pink color. After expressing your desire to do the same, you were now sitting in her bathroom with foil sheets, bowls of bleach and dye on the counter and one of your grandmother’s favorite dressing gowns covering your clothes.

“That should do it,” Seokjin announced as he stepped back to admire his handiwork. “Now, we just wait for the dye to set.”

“How many foils did you use?” you questioned while lifting a few covered sections. “I look like an aluminum pinecone over here.”

“Not that many,” he admitted while adjusting the plastic shower cap on his head. “I think I bleached about 13 different sections. Maybe a bit more? You should’ve just done your whole head like me.”

“I don’t want to be twinsies, Seokjinnie,” you replied. “I just want a little pop of pink.”

“Hey,” Seokjin smirked. “What do you call a country with only pink cars?”

You perked up and grinned at your smug cousin, noting that he was desperately trying to hold the punchline in.

“What,” you relented.

“A Pink Car-nation!” Seokjin sputtered.

You both gave in to the absurdity of the cheesy joke and you wandered into your grandmother’s room to sit on her small pink loveseat.

“I always loved this little nook in her room,” you sighed wistfully. “Remember when we’d watch cooking shows with her in here?”

“Yup, every Thursday night,” Seokjin beamed. “I purposely avoided school activities that met on Thursdays so that I never missed an evening with her.”

“She loved those shows,” you reminisced. “Remember when we found all those old Iron Chef episodes on YouTube? She loved it!”

“Not as much as she loved watching Iron Chef America,” Seokjin reminded you. “She had a crush on both Alton Brown and the Chairman.”

“No way,” you argued. “She wanted Morimoto and Michael Symon! She always loved their dishes the best.”

“I think we can agree that she just loved food,” Seokjin chuckled. “The woman had a passion for feeding us delicious things.”

You both sighed and nodded your head, your thoughts replaying touching memories of your grandmother in an attempt to summon her spirit into the room.

“What are we gonna do without her, gamja?” you sniffled. “Things are never going to be the same around here.”

“I don’t know,” Jin huffed. “I’m sure we’ll think of something, goguma.”

A gentle knock pulled you both out of your reverie and your aunt appeared at the doorway with a pink plastic tote in her hands. Her eyebrows rose comically when she peeped the hair accessories you were both rocking, but she shook her head and decided that silence was best in this situation.

“I figured you two would be in here,” she smiled softly. “This was always your place with her.”

“Yeah, we just feel closer to her in here,” you replied.

“What’s that, eomma?” Seokjin gestured at the tote in his mother’s hands. “More of Grandma’s stuff for the closet?”

“Actually, it was on one of the chairs in the dining room,” she explained. “We saw it when we were clearing places for dinner. There’s a note inside. It’s addressed to the two of you...from her.”

Both you and Seokjin bolted off the couch, arms ready to receive this newfound treasure. The glossy opaque exterior did nothing to offer any explanation as to the contents of the container. Noting the intimate nature of this discovery, your aunt stepped forward and gingerly placed the container on the coffee table. After giving your hand a gentle squeeze and offering a kiss to Seokjin’s cheek, she offered a small smile and left without another word.

You and Seokjin sank back into the couch cushions and stared at the pink plastic taunting you from the coffee table. After a moment, you glanced at Seokjin and realized that he was too dumbstruck to do anything.

“I’m going to open it, Jinnie,” you announced. “Is that ok?”

Seokjin could only nod with furrowed brows and his breath caught as you lifted the lid to reveal a pile of multicolored pieces of paper stacked inside topped with a folded sheet of pink lined paper. The box released the scent of coriander, bergamot, lavender, and peppercorns and your eyes watered at the nostalgic scent of your grandmother. You took the folded note into your hand and began to unfold it as Seokjin sat forward to hear you read what was inside. Tears sprang to your eyes as you quickly scanned the page and began to read.

My Dearest Gamja & Sweetest Goguma,

I know that I will not be able to help you finish the cookbook that you’ve been working so hard on, and I apologize for that. I know that whatever you two “cook up” will be amazing, with or without my help. You two will always be my favorites, but don’t ever tell anyone that, not even your parents. They’ll just be jealous, or “jelly” as you kids like to say. I know this isn’t much of a gift, but it’s my most precious possession in the world besides my family. Inside this box, you’ll find the last of my secret recipes. (Yes, the ones you’ve been bugging me about for months now. I also threw in a few extra things just for you two.) Please take this knowledge and put it to good use. Remember that whenever you get stuck in a recipe that it’s ok to improvise. Always trust your instincts and believe in your skills (because I taught you most of them), and if all else fails, just know that I will be proud of you no matter what you do. I love you both more than you will ever know. Please take care of each other and don’t forget that it’s always a good idea to get a little fancy in the kitchen.

Always your little kitchen fairy,

Grandma

P.S. Don’t you dare get rid of my aprons! I worked very hard on those. They belong in the kitchen.

You sniffled as you took in the elegant swirls of her handwriting and the esoteric scribbles in the margins. You were about to comment about one particular doodle to Seokjin, but then you looked up and noticed his reddened ears, his tear streaked cheeks, and his trembling lips.

“Oh, gamja,” you cried out. “What’s wrong?”

“I just-,” Seokjin tried to speak, but failed. “I just miss her so much, goguma. She just got us, you know? No one else really gets us. She always did, and now, she’s gone.”

His last word died on his lips and he could no longer hold back the choking sob clawing at his throat. You quickly placed the letter back on the table and threw your arms around your cousin’s quaking shoulders. The two of you held onto each other, sobbing in your shared grief and comforting each other as best you could.

“We knew this was going to happen at some point, Jinnie,” you muttered into his shoulder. “She couldn’t keep fighting forever. At least we know that she’s not in pain anymore.”

“I know,” he pouted petulantly. “Doesn’t mean I wanted her to leave us.”

“She didn’t completely leave us,” you assured him. “She left us this. Now, we can finish putting together this cookbook. It will be her family legacy.”

That thought seemed to sit well with Seokjin because he released a shaky exhale and straightened up. He leaned over to pull a few tissues out of the crocheted tissue box on the coffee table and he handed you one while he dabbed at the wetness on his flushed cheeks. After you’d both composed yourselves, you began digging through the items in the pink container.

“Oh my God!” Seokjin exclaimed while lifting several pieces of paper. “She finally gave up those last few gems that we kept asking her about.”

“You got her cookie recipe?!” you gasped. “And what about that soup she always makes when we’re sick?”

“It’s all here!” Seokjin confirmed. “The cookies, the soup, and even that chicken dish she only made for special occasions. She even gave us some cooking tips. You know, the stuff she would always do that wasn’t in the recipes? She wrote it all down here in the margins. This is fantastic! You just need to help me put it together.”

You continued perusing the contents of the container and noticed some irregularities in the organization. Your grandmother was a culinary genius, but keeping things neat and in order was not one of her strong suits.

“I think we’re missing a page, Jinnie,” you pouted. “I can’t find the second half of this cookie recipe. I wanted to make some for dessert tonight. Help me find it.”

You both began digging through the dozens of pages of notes in the container, and it was proving to be quite the task. Seokjin frantically filtered through several sheets of paper seeking the page in question. With the copious collection of Post-it notes, sticky flags, and impromptu bookmarks, the coffee table was an absolute disaster area within minutes.

“I swear I just saw that page,” Seokjin grumbled. “It had a blue tab on it and it had a little whale scribbled in the corner of the page.”

“Is the one that you’re holding in your hand?” you quipped with a smile.

Seokjin examined the paper in his hand and his head fell back in defeat. You could barely control the giggle that was threatening to escape from your lips.

“Seriously?” Seokjin groaned. “We’ve been looking for this for like five minutes already.”

“It’s fine, gamja,” you assured him. “You know what they say, if you’re searching for something, take an apple with you.”

You gestured at yourself and Seokjin smiled.

“And why is that?” Seokjin mused.

“So that your search will be fruitful,” you grinned.

You both chuckled at your lame pun, and you could see Seokjin gearing up for one of his infamous cheesy jokes.

“We should’ve called you sagwa instead of goguma, y’know?” Seokjin suggested. “But grandma always said you were too soft and sweet to be an apple, even if your middle name is Eris.”

“I yam what I yam,” you gloated. “There’s no arguing with her logic.”

“Hey,” Seokjin chuckled. “Why do sweet potatoes make good detectives?”

“Why?” you smiled.

“Because they keep their eyes peeled,” Seokjin responded before exploding into a fit of squeaky laughter.

The two of you collected yourselves after the giggles calmed down and stacked the handwritten notes back into the pink container for safekeeping. Once you got the chance, you were going to begin typing everything up and creating a digital template for the cookbook. Your best friend/soulmate, Taehyung, was creating some dazzling layouts and original artwork that would be used to decorate the cookbook and commemorate your grandmother.

After rinsing the pink dye out of each other’s hair in the shower with your grandmother’s removable shower head, you and Seokjin dried your hair and styled it the best you could with your grandmother’s limited styling products. You wove your hair into a pair of French braid pigtails and the brilliant hues of pink peeking through your dark hair filled you with glee.

Perfect.

You turned to see Seokjin arranging his rosy bangs so that his forehead was still exposed when you had a brilliant idea.

“Want to help me make some of Grandma’s cookies, gamja?” you chirped. “We should make a double batch for everyone that’s coming.”

“I’m down,” Seokjin replied with a grin. “As long as we have this recipe, what could go wrong?”

30 MINUTES LATER

“This doesn’t look right, gamja,” you huffed while scanning the recipe ingredients on the page again. “The dough feels too wet. I think we did something wrong.”

Seokjin walked over and looked at the sticky mess coating your hands and then glanced back at the page you were still decoding.

“You’re right,” Seokjin agreed. “Something isn’t right.”

You wiped as much of the greasy dough back into the bowl as you could before walking over to the sink to wash your hands of the sticky substance. Whatever it was, it was definitely not cookies. You dried your hands on the flamingo print towel hanging from your pink ruffled apron and groaned at the unchanging list of ingredients on the page. You didn’t even notice when your cousin Sana wandered in and peeked over your shoulder.

“What is this?” she asked abruptly, nearly giving you a heart attack.

“Holy shit, Sana,” you gasped while clutching your chest. “Where the hell did you come from, you little ninja?”

“Your mom sent me inside to get tablecloths,” she griped. “Where are they, anyway?”

Seokjin opened a cabinet and pulled out a pile of folded pink patterned tablecloths and handed them to Sana. She gazed at his hair for a second too long and Seokjin took that as an invitation to strike a pose.

“You like it?” Seokjin prompted. “Looks good, huh?”

Sana’s sharp gaze cut across to your braids and she raised a judgmental eyebrow at the pink threaded in your dark hair.

“We did it for Grandma,” you explained. “Something to pay tribute to her memory.”

Sana’s countenance relaxed and she nodded with a smirk.

“Well, that’s ok then,” Sana murmured. “If you’re going to look ridiculous, at least it’s for a good cause.”

Both you and Seokjin gaped at her snarky remark and your eyes followed her as she made her way to the hallway. She paused for a moment and turned back with a huff.

“By the way,” Sana grumbled. “One of your friends is here.”

“Oh, is it Tae?” you hoped. “He’s supposed to be getting here today. His parents couldn’t drive him yesterday so he missed the funeral.”

“Ugh, no,” Sana snapped. “It’s not your idiot best friend. It’s some girl.”

“Soulmate, Sana, not idiot best friend,” you admonished playfully. “They may mean the same thing, but Tae is big on labels.”

“Whatever,” Sana rolled her eyes. “It’s not him. Just come outside and get your friend. I don’t know who she is, but she’s kinda annoying.”

“I’ll go out in a minute,” you replied while studying the recipe once again. “Jin-Jin and I are working on the cookies right now. We need to figure out what’s wrong with the recipe.”

Sana leaned in and looked at the dough in the mixing bowl and scowled.

“That dough looks like shit,” she growled. “What did you do to it?”

“Sana!” you exclaimed with a start. “Rude much?”

“What?” Sana argued. “It does! My dog’s shit looks like that if she eats too much fried food.”

“You know, she’s got a point, goguma,” Seokjin commented lightly. “Maybe we missed something in the recipe?”

“Just dry it out,” Sana suggested. “It looks too wet to be cookie dough.”

“Huh?” you recoiled. “How would you know that?”

“Trust me,” Sana smirked. “I’ve stolen a lot of cookie dough out of Grandma’s freezer. I know what it should look like.”

With the mischievous smirk still pulling her lips into a sneer, Sana turned and left the kitchen with a little hitch in her step.

“That little hellion,” Seokjin mused. “Should we tell her that Grandma knew about her thievery all along?”

“And ruin the illusion that she’s a sneaky little thief?” you giggled. “Nah, maybe later. I’m just surprised she paid so much attention to the texture of the dough. She’s one smart cookie after all.”

“I guess she’s a cookie dough expert,” Seokjin chuckled. “Do you know what they call a smart cookie?”

“What?” you smirked with anticipation.

“Academia nut,” Seokjin replied, then immediately fell into squeaky giggles.

You both enjoyed the lame pun and joke combo for a moment before looking back into the mixing bowl with frustration. You grabbed the ingredients page again and tried to puzzle out the mystery of the cookie recipe once again.

“Are you sure this is the right page to the cookie recipe, Jinnie?” you queried. “Maybe it was a different page.”

“Maybe?” Seokjin hummed. “Can you check the pink container again? Maybe we missed something.”

You took off your apron and placed it on a hook before walking back into the hall. You raced back to your grandmother’s room past the living room and shuffled through the box looking for the long lost cookie ingredient list. After flipping through a few pages, a loose piece of heavy cardstock fluttered to the ground. Upon further inspection, you immediately realized the problem with the recipe and you groaned loudly.

Grandma, you sneaky old lady!

You quickly headed back to the kitchen, but unfortunately, you didn’t get very far.

When you got back into the living room, a high pitched squeal assaulted your ears.

“HEY!” the voice bellowed. “THERE YOU ARE!”

Before you could trace the origin of the voice, a pair of arms enveloped you in a bear hug. You look past the wisps of caramel hair flapping in your eyes at your confused younger cousin Sana.

“She said she was here to see you,” Sana scowled. “I told her you were busy in the kitchen, but she wouldn’t listen. Friend of yours?”

“Well, of course she’s my friend,” the strange voice insisted. “We’ve been in the same class since second grade, haven’t we?”

As she pulled away to reveal her face, you nearly growled at the pair of pleading eyes belonging to the one and only Aeri. The same Aeri who once poured glitter glue into your pencil case, who was the sweetheart of your school, and who was infamous for going after all the popular, rich boys in town just to reap the benefits.

“I’m so sorry to hear about your grandmother,” Aeri squealed sadly. “I just wanted to come over and make sure you were doing ok.”

“I’m fine,” you said, suspicion etching little wrinkles around your eyes. “How did you know I was here?”

“Just a lucky guess,” she shrugged. “Your aunt said I could stay and help set up for the party as a sign of my condolences to your family. Isn’t that great?”

“Yeah, sure,” you commented, still unsure of her intentions. “Thank you.”

“Oh, you dyed your hair?” Aeri noted. “That’s an interesting color choice.”

“Grandma loved pink,” Sana explained. “Her and Seokjin decided to play salon together. It’s a tribute.”

You glared at the air quotes Sana was making when she said “tribute,” but you also noticed that Aeri’s eyes lit up with Sana said Seokjin’s name.

“Oh well, that’s wonderful,” Aeri cooed. “It looks great. I bet your cousin’s hair looks just as good. That’s so sweet that you guys did that for your grandmother.”

The air in the living room shifted uncomfortably with Aeri’s words and you cleared your throat before the moment got any more awkward.

“Well, I’d love to stay and chat,” you muttered. “But I’m a little busy right now getting the dessert ready for tonight. Have fun setting up.”

You turned towards the kitchen, but not before hearing the beginning of Aeri and Sana’s conversation.

“Oh, I wonder if I should go help her in the kitchen,” Aeri proclaimed sweetly. “I’m sure she wouldn’t mind.”

“No, she’s fine.” Sana grumbled. “She’s got Jin in there. We need your help outside setting up tables. Come on, I’ll show you.”

Aeri’s protests faded out the door and you scowled as you heard the screen door fall shut.

What is this bitch up to?

You didn’t have time to play detective, so you shelved those thoughts until after dessert was finished.

Seokjin was pulling out more ingredients from the cupboard as you entered and you noticed that the spices were piling up on the counter.

“What are you doing, gamja?” you asked. “What with the spices?”

“Just thinking of getting a little fancy,” he quipped playfully. “Grandma liked to play mad scientist in here. Why shouldn’t I?”

“If this is for the cookies, hold that thought,” you said while handing him the cardstock. “We need to fix the recipe before you do that.”

Seokjin took the card from your hand and tilted his head in confusion. After flipping the card over and then back, he looked at you with questions in his eyes.

“What am I supposed to be looking at, gamja?” Seokjin asked

“That is a label for a box of butter sticks,” you explained. “Actually, it’s for a box of half sticks.”

“Ok, but why am I looking at it?” Seokjin persisted. “What does this mean?”

“This is Grandma’s butter package,” you continued. “This is the only butter she buys. But they sell it in half sticks...they only sell it in half-sticks.”

Seokjin pondered that statement and then the light bulb flickered mockingly above his head.

“She only used half-sticks!” Seokjin exclaimed loudly. “We have to go in and adjust all her recipes now.”

“Yup,” you sighed. “Leave it to Grandma to write her recipes in code.”

“So, we just need to double all the ingredients and we should be good,” Seokjin concluded. “That’s why the dough feels so weird.”

“You grab the wet ingredients,” you commanded. “I’ll gather the dry and meet you at the mixer.”

You both high-fived and pounced into action. With a little teamwork, you managed to pull together a decent cookie dough out of the mess you’d made. Seokjin even took a little time to mix some freshly ground ginger to the mix for a little fresh and spicy kick.

“It will be like gingerbread,” Seokjin promised. “But without the dark flavor of the molasses.”

Once the cookies were done, you both filled a few platters and carried them out to the table that was set up in the backyard patio. People were just starting to arrive, and the two of you mingled around and welcomed everyone to the memorial dinner. Once or twice, you caught sight of Aeri mixed into the group talking to Seokjin, but you couldn’t get away to confront her. The way she was batting her eyelashes at him and touching his arm was making you bristle.

I don’t know what she’s playing at, but whatever it is, it can’t be good.

Once the dinner was over, the clean up crew was hustling and bustling inside to get your grandmother’s house cleaned before everyone left for the night.

You were just putting the vacuum back into the closet when a loud argument erupted from inside the kitchen. You and Seokjin rushed into the kitchen to see what all the fuss was about.

“That glassware set is mine and I’m taking it,” cried your aunt. “Mom always said that I was going to be the one to inherit it after she passed.”

“You can’t just start taking things out of the house,” cried your other aunt. “We should give everyone a chance to claim something of their own. You weren’t the only one who was promised something, you know. Give the kids a chance to get something as well. Don’t be so selfish.”

The word “selfish” triggered another round of yelling and you and Seokjin decided to step in before things got out of hand. In the end, a running tab of claimed items was created and everyone settled down once the matter was put into writing. The emotional aunts wandered back into the living room, while you, Seokjin, and your mother stayed behind to finalize the list.

“Did you two already pick out something?” your mother asked. “I know a lot has already been claimed, but I’m sure there must be something you would want.”

“Not really, mom,” you sighed. “Seokjin and I already have the best part of Grandma: her recipes. I don’t think there is anything else that would rival that.”

Your mother nodded and then abruptly perked up. She walked over to one of the drawers and began digging through the silverware inside, seemingly searching for something specific. She pulled out a spoon and a fork and smiled widely when she held them in her hands. You and Seokjin were puzzled over her actions and your confusion increased when she placed the utensils on the countertop between you.

“This design was from Grandma and Grandpa’s wedding set,” she explained. “They received a full place setting, but these are the only two items left from the original set. The others were either damaged or lost along the way. I think you two should have them. That way you can always be connected to your grandparents and to each other. You two were the roses of your grandmother’s garden. She always held a special affection for you two that was different from your other cousins.”

With tears brimming in your eyes, you looked up at Seokjin and saw he wasn’t faring much better. Your mom sensed that this needed to be a private moment, so she placed her hand on both your cheeks for a moment and then gracefully exited the kitchen, leaving the two of you staring at the elaborate spoon and fork on the counter.

“So how do we decide who gets what?” you probed with a sniffle. “I don’t want to fight like our crazy aunts did. We’re way more civilized than that.”

“There’s only one answer to that question,” Seokjin said while wiping a tear from his eye. “Why did the sweet potato cross the road?”

“I don’t know, Jinnie,” you hiccuped. “Why?”

Seokjin slid the fork over to you and placed his hand on your shoulder. This was a bittersweet moment for the two of you and you knew that his joke was the only thing keeping the two of you from breaking down into yet another round of tears.

“She saw a fork up ahead,” Seokjin croaked. “That’s why you should get the fork, goguma. I’ll take the spoon, yeah?”

“Makes sense, gamja,” you agreed. “You are always the one to scoop me up when I’m down. You’re always such a sweetheart, and I love you for that.”

“I love you too,” Seokjin mumbled while pulling you into a crushing hug. “Hey, speaking of sweetness, if you put sugar in tea, what do you put in sugar?”

“I don’t know,” you sighed into his shoulder. “What?”

“A spoon,” he chuckled while grabbing his spoon from the counter. “See, my jokes always make sense of everything.”

“I promise to keep this with me always,” you swore while holding your fork. “This random utensil will forever be my connection to you, gamja.”

“And this spoon is never leaving my sight, goguma,” Seokjin promised. “It will be a constant reminder that I have you and you have me.”

You embraced once again and a sharp throat clearing interrupted your heartfelt moment. You both turned to see your younger cousin Sana just inside the kitchen doorway, wearing her signature scowl and a bright blue Transformers T-shirt.

“Hey, Sana,” you called out while wiping away your tears yet again. “What’s up?”

“Nothing,” Sana sighed. “We just finished cleaning up. Your friend Aeri just left. It took a while to get rid of her.”

“Oh, is she your friend, goguma?” Seokjin probed. “She mentioned something like that earlier.”

“No, not really,” you scowled. “She’s just a girl from school.”

“I think she liked me,” Seokjin bragged. “She said my hair reminded her of her favorite bubblegum.”

“It looks more like Pepto Bismol, if you ask me,” Sana interjected.

You released a loud cackle as Seokjin’s ego deflated slightly at Sana’s words, but he shook it off quickly and smiled.

“So how did you like the cookies after all, Sana?” Seokjin asked. “As good as Grandma’s?”

“They were pretty good,” Sana admitted. “A little different, but still good.”

“It’s too bad we didn’t have any left,” you sighed. “I wanted to take some home, but they were gone before I could.”

“So no cookie dough left either?” Sana hoped. “Maybe in the freezer?”

“No, you rascal,” Seokjin chuckled while rumpling her hair. “Nothing left for you to steal this time.”

"What makes you think I don't already have cookie dough at home?" Sana challenged.

"What cookie dough?" you asked. “What are you talking about?”

"Grandma's last bag,” Sana stated with a grin of Cheshire proportions. “I found it in the freezer the other day and took it."

"Sana!” you reprimanded. “You should share that with the family."

"Nope,” Sana boasted. “Mine now. But I might be willing to share if you can do me a favor."

“What kind of favor?” Seokjin wondered aloud. “Whatever it is, we’ll do it. We need an original sample to make sure we get the next batch of dough right.”

Sana shuffled forward and glanced between you and Seokjin. She was one of your stranger cousins, always dabbling in odd hobbies and adopting a style that was all her own. Both you and Seokjin felt protective of her unconventional personality, and despite her surly demeanor, Sana gravitated to the two of you more than any of your other relatives.

“I was wondering,” Sana began softly. “If maybe you could teach me how to cook. I want to learn how to make cookies.”

“I think you mean bake,” Seokjin corrected her gently. “And we’d love to teach you how to make cookies. We have grandma’s cookie recipe now. Want to help us make some?”

“No,” Sana replied. “I want those peanut butter cookies that you guys made for Halloween. Those are my favorite.”

“We can do that,” you beamed. “Let’s get our aprons on and then we can show you how to make those cookies.”

Once you all had on aprons, with Sana opting for a plain white apron while you and Seokjin donned frilly pink ones, you all started pulling out ingredients for the cookies. As you waited for the butter to soften, you started regaling Sana with recipes from your grandmother’s cookbook.

“So there’s also candy recipes?” Sana asked. “Are you going to share those with everybody?”

“Absolutely,” you replied. “It’s a family cookbook. It wouldn’t be fair if we kept it all to ourselves.”

“I didn’t know you were so interested in cooking, Sana,” Seokjin commented while showing her how to mix the dry ingredients. “It’s a valuable skill to have, you know?”

“Yeah, I know,” Sana smirked. “I’m sure I can put those recipes to good use.”

The three of you continued to work on the cookies while you and Seokjin gave Sana instructions on each step of the recipe. A comforting air settled in the kitchen and you couldn’t help but wonder if your grandmother’s spirit was sitting in the corner on her stool, fondly watching as her kitchen was brought to life once again.

Author's Note: I finally got around to finishing this drabble. Work is really putting me through the ringer. I hope you all enjoy this little slice of family time with the one and only Kim Seokjin. These potato heads are so lovable and it did make sad to put them through such an angsty memory, but it all worked out in the end. Thank you to my Beta @xxxille-girlxxx for being an amazing soulmate and reading my drafts. Your suggestions brought this whole drabble to a whole other level. I'm going to be working on my collab fic that is due next month, so I will return to these drabbles and my other fic Peripheral after I finish that. Stay safe, everyone!

MAP OF THE SOUL MASTERLIST

@caught-in-a-seesaw-stigma's MASTERLIST

[bobasheebaby]

What Hurts the Most- Learning to Breathe chapter 9

Pairing: Widow Riley (Drake x MC), no pairing yet

Word count: 2,150

Warnings: bone crushing angst, mention of character death, grief, depression

Summary: Liam pays Riley a visit.

Song inspiration: What Hurts the Most (State of Mine version)

A/N: I have no heart because I have crushed it, my chest is now an empty pit that aches from this. That’s my way of telling you this is gonna hurt go grab your comfort drink, a blanket and tissues, you will need it.

A/N2: I wrote a lot of the painful stuff with rum in my system and it wasn’t enough to numb the pain so ummm yea this is gonna hurt.

A/N3: to my knowledge (and I did look) the book is completely made up for the story.

A/N4: An extra special thank you to @sirbeepsalot for all your evil ideas as well as your support, prereading for me and overall boo-ness.

Series warnings: This series will follow Riley, Liam and Bastien after Drake’s death. It will deal with the grief and pain of losing a loved one. Possible NSFW content to come. Possibly dark. If you click read more you acknowledge you are at least 18 years of age.

Let me know if you want to be added or removed from the taglist.

Disclaimer: I don’t own the characters, I’m simply borrowing from PB for a bit.

Liam idly tapped the wrapped package as he waited to see if Riley would be willing to speak to him. It was a full month since she’d given birth, their friends hadn’t even told him that the baby was born, he learned from the brief announcement like the rest of the country. He didn't have a name, all he knew was Riley had a boy, his weight and length and that they were both healthy.

He nearly called her a dozen times since he learned of her child’s birth, each time stopping short of pushing ‘call’.

It felt weird to him that he was the last of the friends to hear, that he hadn’t even met the baby, hopefully that will all change today. All the conversations with Drake over the years they had agreed that they would be the first to know, the child’s uncle and godfather, of course, earned that right. Now he was … well he wasn’t sure if Riley would even see him, he probably wouldn’t even get a glimpse of Drake’s child until she officially released a photograph.

How far he’d fallen, from best friend to nothing.

He couldn’t fault her, he no longer deserved the title he’d held most of his life. A best friend wouldn’t stand and watch as someone killed their friend. A best friend would have thrown themselves in front of a bullet much in the way Drake had for Riley.

In the beginning he had tried to reason that since Drake had willingly taken a bullet for her before that he had made the correct choice. Was he just fooling himself, was he merely trying to erase a guilty conscience? Was it truly better that Drake’s child, Drake's son, grew up without his father because of his own selfishness. I should have told him to kill me, spare them both and take me instead.

He shook his head, he knew even if he had thrown himself in front of the gun that Anton would never kill him. Anton wanted to watch him suffer.

And he had suffered, for the last nine months he had suffered alone in silence. He had to stay strong, ever the stoic king, but inside he was completely shattered, he wasn’t even sure that her forgiveness would fully heal him. He would forever carry the guilt that not only had he been the reason his best friend had died but a son grew up without a father and the woman he loves became a widow.

Liam stood, his eyes wide in surprise as he watched her descend the stairs. She came. He gulped, unsure what to make of her agreeing to speak to him.

He had hoped, but he was nearly positive that she would have sent him packing unseen.

His eyes snapped to the monitor in her hand he hadn’t noticed until the instant a loud cry broke through.

Riley turned with a sigh, “Bas, I hate to ask,” her eyes drifted to his injured leg, “but could you get him for me?”

Bastien glanced between Liam and Riley, clearly concerned for her safety. Liam felt like the world shattered all over again, how was it possible that now he had become the threat?

“I won’t be long,” Riley glanced over her shoulder, “send Hana if I’m not back in ten minutes.”

Liam watched the exchange in shock. When did they get close?

Bastien took the monitor from Riley with a nod before turning to retreat up the stairs.

Riley turned back to him, her head held high, though he could see she was struggling to contain her anger as she continued down the last few steps. “What brings you by today, Your Majesty?”

Liam flinched at the bite in her tone. True their last few conversations hadn’t been pleasant, but he could still remember when she spoke to him with what he could only describe as affection in her voice. “I came by to personally extend my well wishes to you after the birth of your son.”

Riley arched her brow in a way that reminded him purely of Olivia. When did she learn that? Has she only been shutting me out? He could still remember a time when Riley and Olivia could barely remain civil and now she was doing her best impersonation of her. “Why are you really here?”

Liam felt as though he was punched in the face. He felt like a stranger who no longer knew any of his friends, and maybe he was. He was hurt, wounded. The way she spoke to him like he was nothing. “When did you and Bastien become so close?”

“Excuse me?”

He stepped forward, fueled by a mixture of pain, regret, adrenaline, and fear. “I thought you were heartbroken about Drake, didn’t seem so heartbroken a minute ago.”

“I am heartbroken about Drake, and you don’t have the right to come in here and judge me and my life!” Riley stepped closer, “I have worked hard to try to piece my life back together after you told that psychopath to kill my husband! It’s been hard, but I’m slowly figuring out how to live without Drake.

The only reason I’m standing here today instead of crying in my bed like I did for months is because of my friends, my family.

So how about you worry less about how close I am to my guard and friend and start worrying about finding the man who murdered my husband!”

Riley laughed at the stunned expression on Liam’s face, “what, did you think somehow I’d go back to you? After you played a part in me becoming completely broken?”

Liam swallowed, deep down maybe he’d hoped.

“Oh my god! You did! Well guess what, I will piece myself together, perhaps I will even move on, but it will never be with you.

How could you even think that we are a possibility when all I ever see when I look at you is the man that sentenced my husband to death.

You may not have been his executioner, but you are the one who signed his death warrant.

You are the reason that I still wake in a cold sweat whenever I dream of that day.

That day was supposed to be my happiest, and you made it one of the worst days of my life.

You broke me in more ways than I ever thought possible, but I’m trying to prove to myself that I am strong enough, that I can prevail on my own no matter how much it hurts.

So no, while someday I may be able to give you forgiveness, I will never be able to grant you my heart.” She wiped at her cheeks, unwilling to allow him to even see her so raw and broken again.

“Now, tell me why you really came here or get the hell out!”

She glanced at the stairs, probably waiting for someone to come because of her shouting, Liam thought.

Liam faltered, never before had he felt so unsure of his words. He always prided himself on being able to answer any question without losing his composure, and yet here he stood at a complete loss for words.

He felt guilty for bringing up how close she seemed to have grown with Bastien. He knew it had been hard for her, yet she had the support of friends while he tried to move on with scotch as his only comfort.

He’d nearly broken and told her when she mentioned Anton, but if she knew he had kept his capture from her for months that she would only go off in another fiery rage. The truth could wait, now he needed to try to smooth things over the best he was able.

He cleared his throat, “I found this,” he held out the wrapped package, “and thought that your son might enjoy it.”

Riley carefully eyed him before finally accepting the wrapped parcel. “What is it?” Her finger tapped the blue paper and he couldn’t help but notice that her nails were dull and short as though she’d bitten them. He still remembered when her nails were perfectly manicured and topped with a glossy finish.

He finally allowed himself to take in her appearance. Her hair was pulled back in a messy bun and lacked its usual luster. She had purple bags beneath her eyes that no longer shone as brightly as they once had. He could tell that even with help that caring for Drake’s child alone was taking its toll on her.

“Please, just open it.” He knew he overstepped, he knew it the second the words escaped his lips. It’s was far too late to fix it, to fix any of the damage he’d caused, his only hope now was to show that he had good intentions even.

He hadn’t even fully allowed himself to process her words yet, though they echoed clearly in the back of his mind: I will piece myself together, perhaps I will even move on, but it will never be with you. Never be with you, those words stung but he couldn’t allow the pain to penetrate his protective barrier.

Now wasn't the time for him to once again lose his cool, he needed to show her he was capable of letting go of all his hopes and dreams no matter how much it made his chest ache. He needed to let her see that he heard her and understood and put her own well-being above his own. God it hurt to know she could never be his, but she was more important than his own selfish needs.

Riley’s brow furrowed as she gave him a questioning look. He was damn lucky she hadn’t already thrown him out after his unwarranted interest in her life. You broke me, you don’t get a say in what my life looks like as I move on.

Liam sighed, “it’s a book, it was Drake’s.” I know it doesn’t make up for things, I’m sorry, please stop shutting me out. “It was Drake’s favorite book when we were kids. He was a bit embarrassed by it, not sure if he told you. But I know he would have shared it with his son.”

He nervously swallowed as her glare somehow became more pronounced, her meaning was clear: he would have if you hadn’t killed him.

He fought the urge to shake his head, none of this was going the way he had hoped. He knew she still hated him, and he’d only made things worse, but he was hoping that this gesture would show her just how sorry he was.

“It was his favorite Greek myth, there was something about Atlas’s story that just seemed to resonate with him.”

“A-atlas?” Riley’s heart pounded in her chest at the name. There was no way Liam could possibly know her son’s name, she didn’t release it to Ana DeLuca or any other member of the press.

It was possible one of her friends could have mentioned it, but after the silent treatment she’d given Maxwell when he’d let it slip she was pregnant she was sure they were more careful when speaking to him.

He keeps saying ‘son’ if he knew Atlas’s name he would use it. Her fingers trembled as she tore at the sky blue paper. Slowly the cover was revealed. Atlas: the Boy who Held the World.

Riley struggled to breathe, it felt as though all the air had been forced from her lungs leaving her nearly gasping for air.

“Riley, are you okay?” Liam asked, gently laying his hand on her arm.

Her eyes flashed as she wrenched her arm free from his touch, a sudden rage fueling her. “Who told you?” She demanded holding up the old worn book as emphasis.

“Told me what?” Liam was reeling, while he’d hoped for a pleasant interaction he wasn’t expecting it. He never expected to watch her nearly break before turning back to hatred. “I don’t understand what you mean Riley.”

“Who. Told. You. His. Name.” She spoke slowly, pausing after each word emphasizing her anger towards Liam.

Liam gaped at Riley unsure what could have caused such an extreme reaction. He caught a flash of the book’s cover out of the corner of his eye, his name. She wanted to know who told me his name.

He took a step back as it clicked. “Y—you named him Atlas?”

“I did, not that it’s any concern of yours. If that is all you wanted you can see yourself out.”

His eyes darted towards the stairs, surely it’d been ten minutes already. He wasn’t sure if she’d requested Hana for his sake or hers.

His heart ached, begged for him to reach out for her. “I wish you and Atlas all the best.” Even if it will never be with me.

Feedback fuels me, please like, comment reblog or send an ask. Feel free to scream, I promise I can take it.

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[theawkwardundercoverwriter]

Sebastian X Reader: Going into Labour. Part II

Description: Part II

Warnings: NOT EDITED, and amateur writing. 

Someone once said that fears are nothing more than a state of mind; that quote is filled with absolute and utter bullshit. No matter how hard you willed the fear to go away it remained, stubborn and inextinguishable. Whoever said that was obviously never rushed through the streets of New York desperately trying to keep a baby from popping out in the backseat of someone's much-beloved car. For the first time in your life, you felt fear in places you never even fathomed that fear could accumulate. Your body was drenched with anxiety while tears threatened to spill from your pooling eyes. If someone was even close to telling you that fear is a state of mind - you’d have to slap them. 

Sebastian sat in the back with you, never letting go of your hand. He rang his mother and then yours. You were too preoccupied on the pain to register any of the conversations he shared with fellow family members. 

“We’re here Y/N.” Sebastian hums in your ear. You could only manage a disgruntled whimper in response. “Hold on sweetheart. I’ll help you out.” Seb lets go of your hand and jumps around the other side to get the door. Your heart leaps with anxiety as you lose physical contact with him. 

The only thing you craved was his warm embrace. You made a mental note to thank Sebastian later for being your calm in this terrifying storm. Everything he did, despite the immense pain that clouded your mind and body, wasn’t unnoticed. He continued to wipe away the ever forming beads of sweat on your forehead the whole car ride. He somehow managed to bring all the stuff you needed for the hospital including clothes, pillows, and a blanket because he knows how cold you get. 

It was unspoken, but you both knew this labour was happening awfully fast. Too fast. Both of you were told that first-time mothers were usually in labour for long hours, sometimes even days. Yours seemed to be fastening with every second that passed. 

The door springs open just as a contraction waves over your entire body. Your legs felt wobbly and numb. 

“Seb, I don’t think I can walk.” You pant as you work through the pain. 

“Okay, I’ll let the staff know we are here and then hopefully they can give us a wheelchair.” He presses a light kiss to your forehead while ignoring your small protest. 

“No don’t go.” You whimper while latching onto his forearm. 

“I’ll be two seconds Y/N. I won’t be gone long enough for anything bad to happen.” He shoots you his best reassuring smile, but even you could see the specs of fear creeping into his eyes.

The contraction begins to fade as you watch him run into the entrance of the emergency room. 

They were already expecting you as two months ago Seb booked the most expensive maternity ward he could find. He even made you do a tour of the place ensuring there was absolute privacy. Over the top? 100%. But you couldn’t blame him for wanting the best for you and his baby. 

You shuffled your way out of the car, ignoring the aches and strains. You could see Seb inside the lobby gesturing to you. Placing your hand on the door you slowly pulled yourself up. It took every ounce of strength but you somehow managed to get out of the car. 

Catching a glance of your appearance you nearly cry. Seb’s sweatshirt was now 60% sweat, your hair was irritatingly stuck to your face and your swollen cheeks now resembles a sad blotchy marshmallow.  

Your stomach drops as you feel a warm sensation trickle down your thighs. A  heavy and sticky substance flows down your pants, dripping down your legs. Looking down to assess the damage you feel the colour drain from your face. Not only had your water just broken but there was blood gushing down your thighs. 

“Oh shit.” You mumble to yourself. Your heart springs from its chest nearly sending you into a fainting spell. 

“Y/N?” Sebastian calls as he sprints over to you. You’d never seen him run so fast. His eyes are wild with panic. The very sight of you nearly sent him straight into cardiac arrest. He saw your tear-stained cheeks and immediately knew that fear crippled your body. He didn’t know what was worse, the blood that covered your lower half or the numbingly terrifying whimpers you emitted into the air. 

“That’s a lot of blood.” You whisper not even registering the sound of the nurse five steps behind him. 

“Here put all your weight on me, baby, I’ll help you into the wheelchair.” With ease, he lifted you up gently placing you in the chair. “You’re okay Y/N, everything is okay.” He comforts, although you feel his words are more for himself than you. 

“I don’t feel so good.” You whimper as another brutal contraction overwhelms your body. A burning sensation rips through your throat as a wave of nausea inundates your body. Looking down you realise you’ve been sick all over yourself in front of your husband and two nurses. 

“I’m sorry Seb.” You sniffle as you make your way into the elevator. 

“Why are you sorry sweetheart?” Sebastian asks, his voice clouded in confusion. 

“I just ruined your shirt.” You feel the heat rush to your cheeks. Embarrassed doesn’t even begin to describe how you feel. 

“Awh Y/N,” He soothes as he pulls your hair back from your face, “I really don’t mind, not one bit.” He presses a sweet kiss to your cheek and offers you a tissue. 

You were rushed to your own private room where the nurses cleaned and dressed you into your gown. All of them were very understanding and assured you that the blood was a very natural aspect of childbirth. You tried to let that information comfort you, but so many scary thoughts ran through your mind. While examining you they told you were too far gone for an epidural, explaining that they estimated you were in labour for at least a day without really knowing it. 

“I feel stupid.” You peer up at Sebastian whose hurridly updating all family members on your progress. He glances up from his phone at the sound of your voice.  

“Why?” He questions. He sits down on your bed making sure not to disturb any wires or drips. Lacing his hands with yours he shoves his phone into his pocket and offers you his full attention. 

“I didn’t know I was in labour for a full day.” You sigh, “I’m pretty sure this means I have no motherly instincts.” You say as you nervously twist your wedding ring. 

“Hey, don’t do that, don’t doubt yourself.” He lightly squeezes your hand, “Y/N, you're a first-time mother you can’t be expected to know what a contraction is if you’ve never felt one before.” He reasons shooting you a gorgeous smile.

“Still I thought I was just cramping all of yesterday, that’s a sign.” You say, feeling defeated. 

“Oh well, you will know for next time.” He winks shooting you a cheeky smile. 

“Ah don’t joke about more kids, I don’t think I’m going to make it through this one.” You sheepishly smile. You were sore, exhausted and on the verge of tears, although you were half-joking, part of you felt you really weren’t going to make it. 

An hour passes, you didn’t think the contracts could get any more intense, but they did. You were sick two more times. Each time Sebastian offered you a glass of water and a cloth to wipe your mouth. He whispered sweet nothings into your ear hoping to provide comfort. 

“Okay Y/N, time to push.” Your obstetrician instructs, “Baby really wants to meet momma.” She laughs as she gets you in position. 

Dread fills the pit of your stomach. The hardest part of the night had arrived, and you weren’t sure you had any strength left.

“Hey look at me,” Sebastian instructs sensing your unease, “You can do this. I’m right here.” He plants a soft kiss to your cheek before he readjusts the pillow for you. 

“3, 2, 1. Push for me Y/N.” 

You take a shakey deep breath; with everything fibre in your body, you push. A searing pain rips through your body as you jerk your head back in response to the pain. Letting out a desperate cry you continue to push until your told to stop. 

“You’re doing so well Y/N.” Sebastian comforts, excitement and pride swirling in his eyes.  Your breath is jagged as you try to recover. 

“Okay Y/N, another big push for me.” She pauses, “The head is just about out.”

Taking another deep breath in, you push again. You squeeze Sebastian’s hand as the agony rips through you. 

“I can’t do it.” You wail as your instructed to stop pushing for the second time. Tears stream down your cheeks as fatigue plagues your body. Your cries are filled with desperation; exhaustion was written all over your face.  It felt like someone had run you over with a truck then reversed over you again. 

“One more push Y/N, and then baby will be out.” She promises, offering a huge amount of comfort. “It’s just the shoulders now, the hardest bit. We’re nearly there.” 

“C’mon sweetheart. I know you can do this.” Sebastian utters, “I promise you that all this pain will be gone in just one more push. It will all be worth it. Okay? Then I will get you your favourite pizza.” He smiles. Pure adoration swims in his beautiful blue orbs. 

“Okay.” You whimper. “Pepperoni pizza, promise?” You mumble preparing for another push. 

“Yes, I promise. I love you.” He chuckles as he wipes the sweat from your forehead. 

“I love you too.” You say feeling strength swell inside of you. 

“3, 2, 1. One last push Y/N.” 

You grit your teeth and push as hard as you can wanting nothing more than to see your baby. Your body slackens as a bewitching cry bounces off the walls immediately melting your heart. You'd never heard such a beautiful sound. 

“Oh my god.” You cry peering up from the bed to get a glimpse of your baby.

“It’s a boy.” One of the nurses announces while the rest of your doctors/nurses congratulate you on doing such a good job.

“I’m so proud of you Y/N” Sebastian smiles while wiping joyful tears from his eyes. You baby boy was placed on your chest and for just a second it felt as if the world had stopped turning. “He’s beautiful.” You choke while admiring your sweet little prince. You hold him in awe for a few sweet moments before offering, “Would you like to hold your son.” 

You didn’t think it was possible but Sebastian’s face lit up even more. His eyes widened as you gently placed your son in your husband's arms. Both of you still teary. 

“He’s so precious. I love you. Both of you.” He whispers while kissing your son’s temple. Your heart swells at the sight. Your perfect little family sat on your hospital bed, admiring the gift of life. 

Again, I apologise with the rushed writing. Here in Aus, there is a lot going on. Thank you for your patience. 

Tag List:

@daybreak96

@bbmommy0902

@thummbelina​

[detectivesebcas]

Comfortember 2020 Day 3- Nightmare

Warnings: descriptions of blood/injury, discussion of temporary canonical character death

Universe: Negative Space

----

Sebastian’s dreams often take him to dark places.  There is certainly more than enough horror in his past for his subconscious to draw on, but similar themes tend to appear, at least in the dreams he remembers.  Lily’s supposed death features prominently of course, as do many of the events from his two visits to STEM, but tonight a different scenario plays out for him.

Tonight, it is Stefano who is gasping and convulsing in front of him, eye filled with fear.  It is Stefano’s body in his arms, and he can feel the trembling of his muscles, the weak, irregular rhythm of his heart, the last breath he draws into his lungs.  Sebastian should be able to help him, should be able to save him, but instead he can only hold him and sob.

“Sebastian.”

It’s Stefano’s voice, because Stefano is not dead.  Stefano is here in their bedroom with him, and Sebastian is sobbing into his pillow as Stefano’s hand rubs circles on his back.  Even though he knows now it wasn’t real, the imagery from the dream is powerful- Stefano broken and bloodied, Stefano dying in his arms.

He rolls over and throws himself at Stefano, practically tackling him to bed in his desperation to hold him, to feel that he is real and safe and alive.  He buries his face in Stefano’s chest, clinging to him as though he will drown if he lets go.  His body is still racked with sobs, but Stefano’s heartbeat is strong under his cheek, and Stefano’s arms are solid as they hold him, and Stefano is clearly not dead.

Stefano doesn’t speak at first, and Sebastian is grateful, because he wouldn’t be able to answer now anyway.  There are tears streaming down his face, his nose is running, and his throat is so tight with emotion he can hardly breathe, much less speak.  After a few minutes though, his sobs have tapered off, and his breathing is returning to normal.

Stefano hands him a tissue.  “My dear, Sebastian,” he murmurs, one hand coming up to comb through Sebastian’s hair, “what is troubling you?”

Sebastian finishes wiping his eyes and nose and tosses the tissue onto the nightstand.

“Just a dream,” he says, voice still thick from crying.  “Or a memory, I guess.”

“From STEM?”

“Yeah.”

“Do you want to talk about it?” Stefano asks.  His fingers are lightly scratching at Sebastian’s scalp now, and Sebastian sighs in pleasure.

“Maybe.  I don’t know,” he replies.  Being here in Stefano’s arms is tremendously comforting, but he still feels a bit unsettled about the dream.  It’s an uncomfortable feeling, but he’s not sure whether talking about it will help or just make it harder to reconnect with the real world.  “It was about the last time we saw each other in STEM,” he adds.  “When I…”

He can’t bring himself to finish the sentence.  He knows why he had to do what he did, and he can’t even imagine what he would do differently if he found himself in the same situation again, but it still makes him feel sick to remember it, to remember the feel of the crossbow recoiling in his hands and the last bolt left it, the dull, wet sound of that bolt embedding itself in Stefano’s chest.

“Ah, I can see why that might be troubling to recall,” Stefano says.  If he is surprised, he doesn’t show it.  His voice is steady and his hand never falters as he continues to pet Sebastian’s head.

Sebastian swallows hard.  “I’m sorry,” he says.  “I’m sorry that-”

“Shhh,” Stefano interrupts him.  “No more of that.  We have discussed this before.  You did what you had to do, just as I did what I had to do.  We were both very different people at the time.”

“I guess so,” Sebastian says doubtfully.  He does believe people can change, but it’s a little hard to believe that two people who were once determined to kill each other can change enough to end up where he and Stefano are now.

“Look at us,” Stefano says, as though reading his mind.  “Clearly we have moved past that.”

Sebastian smiles against Stefano’s skin.  “Who would’ve thought we’d end up together?”

Stefano laughs.  “Probably no one, but life is quite unpredictable.”

“You can say that again,” Sebastian says.  A few years ago, before Union and before Stefano, he had believed that he would never see Lily or Myra again, that he would never find happiness, that he would be alone forever.  He is so glad to have been proven wrong.

He raises his head to make eye contact with Stefano, who has a sleepy smile on his face.

“Sorry for waking you up,” Sebastian says, leaning in to kiss him.

“It’s alright,” Stefano says after Sebastian pulls away.  “I know I have done the same to you many times.”  His hand brushes Sebastian’s cheek.  “Do you think you’ll be able to go back to sleep now?”

“Yes,” Sebastian replies with a smile.  Gone are the nights when a nightmare like this would have him up the rest of the night, pacing the floor, forcing himself to stay awake for fear of losing his grip on reality again.  It is much easier to maintain that balance now that he has Stefano to anchor him.

He rests his head on Stefano’s chest again, and Stefano leans down to kiss the top of his head.

“Go to sleep, my love,” Stefano whispers.

STEM is in the past, and maybe not even the real past at that.  The world that pitted them against each other is no more, and even though it tries to force its way into Sebastian’s mind from time to time, he knows his new world is right here with Stefano and Lily.

Stefano is here.  Stefano is alive, and it is the steady beating of his heart, the gentle rise and fall of his chest, and the warmth of his body that lull Sebastian back to sleep.

[lovehatemysme]

[Zen x MC]

Zen: Maybe you and I could get together haha

MC: Oh.. but I’m seeing someone

Ah. Well, it was worth a shot, Zen thought. He ruffled his hair as he said his good bye, excusing himself to do some workout. Zen respected that you were dating someone, not once did he made a move, nor went out of line with his endearments. He respected relationships, and so he went on with his days without lingering. 

When Zen finally saw you for the first time during the party, he was mesmerized, the way the edge of your lips almost meets your eyes when you smile so brightly, the way your eyes would glisten would you talk, he was just.. captured. And damn did he wish he met you sooner, then maybe he was the one you were dating. 

~

Zen stopped abruptly on his workout, the sudden ring of his phone surprising him.

MC calling..

Without any hesitations he picked up his phone, “Hey, what’s up?” he said breathlessly as he sat down for a while, wiping the sweat on his forehead. 

“Hey,” you sniffed, “Are you busy? Can I pop in tonight?” another sniff, Zen was alarmed, he never heard you cry, in the months you’ve known each other the only time he saw you cry was when you and the gang went out to see a movie, and it was happy crying! Not like this, sad voice and sniffs. 

“Of course! Do you need anything?” he asked, standing up as he checked his living room, cans of beers scattered, taking a mental note to clean it before hitting the shower. 

“Uhm nothing, I’ll bring the beer,” you said as you hung up. As Zen cleaned up his living room, you were in the grocery at the alcohol section racking up Zen’s favorite beer and yours. Zen was a good company when drinking, he never took advantage and always looked after you when you had too many. He’d even tie your hair when you puke! 

Zen opened the door when you rang, shock evident in his face when he saw you, puffy red eyes and a messy bun, “Beer?” you said in a small voice, holding up the bag. Zen blinked and took it from your hand, letting you in. Passing by him you could smell he was fresh out of the shower, a hint of his soap and shampoo lingered in your nose as you passed. 

You let yourself comfortable in his sofa, it wasn’t your first time being in his apartment, you’d stop by every now and then to help him practice when you had time, and sometimes when Yoosung needed a break from school you’d be here casually drinking as Yoosung vented out his frustrations. 

Zen sat beside you, popping up two cans of beers handing one out to you, “Cheers,” he said as he raised his can before sipping in. Zen was a patient man, he’d let you be silent for a while, let you organize your thoughts. He has known you for quite a while now, he’d know how long before you could speak, trying to figure out where to start and what to say. 

“You okay?” he finally asked after a moment of silence, he wouldn’t pry too much, he’d let you flow on your own pace. Your hands on the can, fingers slowly tapping one by one, sighing you chugged your can.

“We broke up,” you said, staring blankly at the can as Zen looked at you, he didn’t know how to respond. A part of him was relieve, because the jerk didn’t deserve you anyway, and another part of him was angry, because you didn’t deserve to be hurt. 

All he could do was open his arms, you looked at him, his face soft as he looked at you, you didn’t hesitate to come in for a hug. With one hand he rubbed your back, whispering comforting words as you’d sniff on his shoulder. For Zen, being able to comfort you was enough, for you to talk to him first, it was enough. His heart ache seeing you in a vulnerable state, your bright smile nowhere to be seen. And he swore to himself that night, he’d never let himself be the reason why you’d cry. 

~

It is known that Zen is a gentleman and a good friend.

As a gentleman, he knew you needed to heal, as to why he never made a move. He was just glad to see you smile brightly again. As a friend, Zen was more than just a good friend. He was your drinking buddy, karaoke buddy, and Zen even dragged you to the gym, now you’re gym buddies as well! Whenever you’d call, whatever you wanted to do, he’s always up to it.  And when he has some rehearsals or shoots, you’d visit and watch him. 

By now everything felt just so.. casual, normal. But to the gang, it wasn’t. Zen would call you babe more than the usual, you’d often go out only the two of you. Zen, in his defense, did everything you wanted to help you move on. But the whole RFA could see it, it was more than just, normal. 

It was during one of Zen’s shoots that you started to feel.. jealous? When a co-star touch his arm, lingering for too long and an icky feeling started to pit in your stomach that you couldn’t help but look away. Maybe you were sick, you told yourself, convincing yourself. 

During the second RFA party, you saw women became dazzled by Zen’s charm. And him ever the gentleman, entertained the guests. And that’s when it finally became clear as a day, when you felt that ache in your heart to see women get Zen’s attention. 

You quickly excused yourself from the guests in front of you, running to the hallway where no one pass by. 

Everything just clicked.

The butterflies in your stomach whenever Zen called you babe, that tingly feeling whenever he touched you, that flutter in your heart when you’d caught him stare at you. 

Because Zen.. Zen was always there for you. He was your beck and call. 

He was the one tying your hair when you’re on the toiled bowl puking during your beer nights, he was the one giving you his jacket when it’s too cold outside, he was the one who would buy you ice cream and chocolates when you had cramps.. and he was the one running to your apartment when you’d call him because you’re having a breakdown. He’d hugged you and sing you to sleep, he’d pick up the pieces of tissues and clean up. And not once you heard him complain, not even once. 

“MC?” you heard a voice call, the voice that would help you sleep at night when you couldn’t. Small tears started to drop, and in a flash the silver haired man was in front of you. 

“Hey what’s wrong?” he bent down to look at you, wiping your tears with his handkerchief. You felt butterflies in your stomach, that familiar tingly feeling when he’s near you, when he’s touching you. Your heart beating fast, words caught up in your throat unable to form a sentence. 

Taking a deep breathe you took held his hand, looking up to him and smiled. 

“I..,” you started, suddenly feeling to aware how he’s looking back at you. You dropped your gaze to the floor but still held his hand. 

“I don’t know when it started but..,” you bit your trembling lip, closing your eyes as you find that courage within you. “I can’t stand it seeing you with other women, being flirty like that,” you said in small voice. “I like it when you call me babe.. I.. I always giggle when we talk, I’m..,” scrunching your brows, you took that leap, opening your eyes as you looked at Zen who was intensely looking at you, eyes wide open, “I’m always happy with you,” you said. 

Zen could feel his heart racing, without thinking twice he grabbed your head as he pulled you, lips melding together. And you welcomed him. The kiss was soft, it was warm like he always was. Parting away he rested his temple against yours, chuckling as he stared at you.

“I’m happy with you too,” he said, rubbing your cheek with his thumb. A relief sigh leaving his lips, “And I’ll always make you happy MC, if you let me,” his sincere eyes piercing through you, you smiled and nodded, Zen kissed you once more, sealing the deal. He couldn’t help but smile in the kiss, feeling giddy. 

You walked back to the party hand in hand.. and Seven may or may not have yelled “Finally!” when he saw you two. 

[alisondepartedbear]

Just Breathe

Everything is not what it seems in Swellview, a kidnapper is running amok while Henry faces some challenging trials in his life. The boy most overcome what is inside to deal with major life changes.

Also can be found on Wattpad and Fanfiction.net 

Part One 

Part Two

~~~

Chapter Three

I run around the side of Junk'n'Stuff to the sidewalk. With just the help of street lamps, I can see someone small walking a few feet away. My heart thumps hard against my chest. Is she even willing to talk to me?

"Charlotte," My voice cracks, and I see tears spring into my eyes. "Charlotte, please, wait."

She stops walking and turns around. Her arms are crossed, and I can see fresh tears on her face. I dig my fingernails in my palm deep. Ashamed I made her cry, I let my head drop.

"I'm sorry, Charlotte. I...I didn't want to hurt you. My..." There's no real excuse for putting my hands on her. "There's stuff inside that I..." I shake my head and run a hand over my face, that when I realize it's wet. Great, Henry, you emotional loser. "I don't want you to be afraid of me, Char. I'm sorry I pushed you."

I look up and watch her take a couple steps to me. Her eyes shine like pretty lights under the lamps.

"You didn't scare me, Henry." Her hands wring together for a moment before she lets them fall by her side. "I'm just worried about you."

"I know," I whisper, falling to the sidewalk. I scoot to sit on the edge.

"And I wish you'd let me help," She joins me on the curb.

I glance at her. She's close, so close her orange blossom shampoo finds it's way up my nose. You'd never know this without being up in her business, but Charlotte's eyes hold the most precious shade of amber in them. Flecks of the colors shoot from the iris, falling into a dark brown that reminds me of old movies and rainy Sundays. Suddenly I feel dizzy. A shaking breath escapes me, "I don't understand how you can help, Char. It's too much for me. So why wouldn't it be too much for you? Does that make me stupid-"

"Stop," She reaches her hand out to put on my shoulder but stops.

My stomach drops knowing she'll never touch me again without wondering if I'll push her away. Without a second thought, I grab her hand with both of mine. "Please, you don't have to second guess yourself around me. I don't want this to change us."

Charlotte's hand tightens around mine. "Henry," She says in the softest tone I've heard from her, almost like pretty bells. Wait-

"What are you guys doing?" Jasper asks.

Whipping my head back, I see him standing in the doorway of Junk'n'Stuf. He has a goofy smile on his face. I think he knows.

"We were just talking." Charlotte stands, pulling me with her. "Has Ray gotten back yet?" She asks walking past him into the store.

I dust my pants off, trying to ignore Jasper's questioning eyes. When I look up I see his eyes haven't left me.

"No, but he left a message downstairs."

"I'll go see what he wants then." Charlotte moves and dodges her way through to the back.

Jasper watches her leave as he makes his way back to the register. When we hear the elevator 'ding', his eyebrows raise into his hair and his mouth forms an 'o'.

"No," I point a finger at him, running to the counter. "Shut your mouth!"

"You were kissing her!" His goofy smile hasn't left his face.

"No!" My god, I'm dealing with a child. "We were legit talking."

"While sitting all cutesy on the sidewalk, oh, please!" He smacks his hand down on the counter. "You have all the material, and you do nothing!"

He wasn't wrong. My cheeks heat up. "She's not going to like me like that." I say poking the lucky cat on display

A hint of a voice tells me "Of course, she likes you, look at you!" while a monster yells "Why would she like a stupid, ugly boy?" See why would she be with me if I can't even decide what I think of myself. People always talk about how you have to love yourself before someone else can. Or maybe its love yourself so no one has to?

"Is this what its like for the side character in the movies?" Jasper gives an exaggerated sigh and lays over the counter top. "Just watching two lovers not love each other,"

"You're making me uncomfortable, man." I let out a nervous laugh. The heat from my cheeks moves to the back of neck, I reach up and scratch the area.

Jasper rolls his eyes, pushing himself to his feet. Before he can speak and embarrass me again, the store's door opens bringing in a girl and what seemed to be her parents. I recognize the girl as being Elena Gilbert, an eighth grader from school. Maybe one of Piper's friends. Elena and her family didn't have much time to themselves before Jasper pounced, talking about all the deals Ray had recently added and the new shipment of crazy, cool items. With the wild man distracted, I duck away to the elevator.

Piper and I sit in our living room quietly. When school let out today, I called Ray and said I'd be in late due to a family emergency. Of course, he asked about my mother in a suggestive way which made me cringe and honestly angry. Maybe if he knew what kind of person she is, he'd stop. We've been sitting here in silence due to Piper's inability to keep a conversation. Not to say she wasn't thinking. I could practically hear the gears grinding in her brain. Like me, she's probably worrying about how to tell Dad. In honesty, I'm not sure if I want him to come home. We'll just ruin his day.

From the corner of my eye, I see Piper's leg bouncing up and down. No doubt she's scared too.

"We don't have to do this today." I nudge Piper's shaking leg with mine.

She looks up from a place on the floor she'd been staring at to meet my gaze. Her smile doesn't reach her eyes but there's a clear effort. "Dad deserves to know. It's just weird..." Piper's eyes drift off again. Her fingers tap along on her knee caps. "I can't believe Mom would do that to him. I just...love Dad and would never want to hurt him and to think-" A squeak cuts off her voice and she covers her mouth. She looks at me with watery eyes.

"Piper, I-" But what do I say? "Come here,"

I open my arms and she falls on to me. Piper emits cries I've never heard from her before. Her small hands curl around the front of my shirt pulling me closer to her. Protectively, I tighten my arms. Closing my eyes, I sit my head on top of her's and I'm hit with the realization that my little sister is just fourteen years old. Her worries should consist of cute boys or girls, silly TV shows, and late nights with friends. She shouldn't be worried about our mother's infidelities. I don't want her to worry about this. Red, fury boils in the pit of my stomach. Mom shouldn't be making us worry like this. She's the adult.

The knob on the front door begins to jiggle before swinging open. "Oh, hey, Hen, didn't know you'd be home today," Dad walks in past us to the kitchen, setting his lunch box on the counter. He turns around with a smile that falls when he see his daughter. "Piper, what's wrong?" He asks like a father should. He strides to the couch and sits with us.

Piper pushes off me and sniffles. I hand her a few tissues from the coffee table. "Dad, we gotta talk." She says in a raspy voice.

Dad pulls a confused, pinched face. "Henry,"

Piper looks to me too. All wet, big puppy eyes from both of them. Why do I need to be the one to say something? Why is it me? Suddenly it feels as if there's a full staff working their way through my chest and stomach. My heartbeat thuds in my ears, and I almost believe I can see my eyes beating as well. I grab the couch cushion for comfort and support.

"Dad, we...we wanted to wait until we were sure. But now there's a lot of evidence. And..." Why didn't the words come out?

You're. Wife. Is. Cheating. On. You.

The words don't come out because I don't want it to be true.

"She's cheating on you." Piper blurts.

"Piper," I hiss.

"You weren't doing anything!" Her red face yells at me. Angry tears slide down her cheeks.

"What?" Dad's face was emotionless.

I close my eyes and flex my fingers on the cushion. "Mom's cheating on you. We've heard phone calls where she's talking to unknown men in really gross ways. She's always out drinking. She comes home drunk! She's never here!" I bit my lip before I say something I regret. When I look at Dad though, I wish I hadn't said anything.

Dad sits back from us and falls against the couch. His hand runs through his thinning hair and red starts to creep onto his cheeks. He takes a few meditative breaths before speaking. "Kids, I..." He wipes his hands on his pants and I can see dark spots from where he's sweating. Closing his eyes, he begins nodding his head. "I've had a feeling she was doing this."

Piper moves to be beside him and lays her head on his shoulder. "I'm sorry."

"No, Piper, I'm sorry." He puts his arm around her. His eyes turn to me. "I'm sorry for not doing something sooner. I knew what was going on but...I didn't want to see it. Believe it."

I watch as the storm builds behind his grey eyes and a few tears slip out. Before I know it my vision is blurry. Dad holds out his hand and I grab on to it. Before I can really think, I realize I don't remember the last time I held my Dad's hand and I break. Fat tears fall down my face as I heave out breaths that won't come fast enough.

"Henry,"

I crawl across the couch and cuddle up to my Dad. Something I haven't done since I was twelve. My eyes close and I let myself cry. Soon I feel wet dripping on my hair. I hear my Dad sniffle and I feel more tears drop.

"I'm sorry I haven't done anything about her drinking." He says. "I foolishly thought it was going to go away."

A while later I'm laying in bed with dried tears all over my face. My head hurts and my eyes are swollen. Blinking hurts. I think about my Mom, Dad, Piper, Charlotte and Jasper. I think about the Kid Danger job. I've always said 'the Kid Danger' because sometimes he really doesn't feel like me. But that's the point. Its not me but someone better. Someone that wouldn't push his friends.

Charlotte's shocked, betrayed face rumbles in my brain. I roll over and press my face into the pillow to will the image away. But it stays. Her falling, her walking away. Her tears when I found her. I pinch my eyes shut, forcing tears out. A gasp mixed with a sob escapes me. My body begins to shake and sweat beads up on my neck and forehead. I don't want to be my mother. I don't want to be my mother.

I. Don't. Want. To. Be. My. Mother.

Part Four

~~~

Please comment if you’d like to be apart of a taglist. I want those interested to be notified :)

[flora-jimin]

𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏𝒔

Pairing: Ot7 (Jimin Centric)

Genre: Angst, Smut, PWP

Word Count: 6.7k

Rating: 18+

Summary:  Jimin starts to feel a little out of place and left out in their relationship.The boys make sure he knows he's just as important to them as they are to him.

Tags: Still Standing Verse, Sense8 Au, Jimin-centric, Poly Relationship, Self Loathing, Hurt/Comfort, Humiliation Kink, Makeup Sex, Overstimulation, Aftercare, Superpowers, Oral, Threesomse, Frotting, Voyeurism, Overstimulation, Crying During Sex, Superpowers During Sex

A/n: This oneshot was written months ago for a fic called Still Standing that I’ve been writing for over a year. It is a sense8 au where all the boys also have superpowers. If you’d like to read that, the link is in my bio on my blog, as it’s not a net approved fic, but for clarity’s sake, the superpower being used during sex is Yoongi’s umbrakinesis, or shadow manipulation.

AO3 Link

He’d be lying if he said he hadn’t been feeling left out lately.

Like today, with Jungkook and Taehyung going to the movies without him. Both of them eagerly holding hands and laughing as they were off to see a movie he had told them all months ago he was eager to see, it hurt.

“Oh, hyung, we figured you’d be at work during that time!”

It felt like a stab to the chest, but he only smiled and told them it was okay. He’d see it with Ji-Woo or he’d see it when the DVD came out.

When Hoseok and Yoongi paired up and disappeared into Yoongi’s studio to make music, he didn’t bother asking to join. Those two were often off in their own world when Yoongi let Hoseok into Genius Lab. It was a rule amongst their cluster not to go into Genius Lab unless Yoongi invited you in. The second oldest sensate took his personal space very seriously. So, Jimin only smiled and told them he hoped they came up with something good when he saw Yoongi take Hoseok’s hand and disappear behind the door.

Besides, he couldn’t rap like they did. He’d probably just be in the way.

When Jin was making lunch for Namjoon and talking about how the two were going to head out to Han River for a date, Jimin only bit back a smile and handed Jin the condiments and utensils the oldest had asked him for as he helped out.

He helped make the lunch, why wasn’t he invited too? Why couldn’t he go to Han River and be with them, too?

Jimin clenched his fists as he sat at the dinner table. Everyone was out. He was alone.

Again.

His head whirred as he felt all six men, all of them having the time of their lives. He felt them, didn’t they feel him? Did they care? Jimin felt a creeping sense of dread start to eat at him. Maybe they all didn’t need him anymore.

He put his head down, tears stinging his eyes as that inner voice got louder, belittling him and dragging him further into the pit of self loathing he’d found himself in.

“What do you even do? What do you have to bring to the table?” It sneered at him and Jimin squeezed his eyes shut tighter.

“You’re just some barista with a mediocre grip on your powers, you’re the weakest link out of all of the cluster and you know it. You’re a joke, Park Jimin, everyone’s laughing.”

He clutched his head, his chest heaving as he tried to ignore that voice. It was his own inner thoughts betraying him, and this wasn’t the first time he’d heard it insult him.

It never hurt this bad, though.

“-im? Chim? Fuck! Hyung, he’s crying!”

Jimin only barely registered Hoseok’s voice in his ears. He curled up tighter, biting his lip. The Busan boy didn’t want to bother anyone. They were having so much fun without him anyway and-

Yoongi’s face came into his view as those big hands picked his head up from the cocoon he’d made with his arms. He could barely see the second oldest, but he felt a strong pulse of concern through their link and he couldn’t help himself from breaking down and sobbing in his hands.

Hoseok startled from behind him and Yoongi’s lips pursed as he pulled him into his arms, letting the smallest man cry against his neck. He looked to Hoseok and nodded towards the bedroom.

“Pick him up. We should get him somewhere more comfortable.” He instructed as Jimin sobbed louder. Hoseok nodded, one arm sliding under the barista’s legs before he nudged Jimin’s head with his lips.

“C’mon baby boy, arms around my neck. We’re gonna take care of you.” He cooed, nearly missing a step when Jimin clung suddenly to his neck. He could feel the tears rolling down his neck as he walked him to the other room, biting his lip in worry.

Yoongi followed right behind him, lips a thin line as he felt Jimin’s flared up emotions vibrating through the link from all the boys. It overrode everyone else’s emotions and Yoongi could feel the worry and confusion coming from the four missing boys at the sudden fever pitch of negative emotions.

Hoseok sat down with Jimin in his lap, rocking him slightly to calm him, even a fraction. Yoongi crawled onto the bed right after him, gently prying Jimin’s hands away from Hoseok’s neck and moving his face so he looked him in the eyes. Jimin’s lip wobbled, his eyes bloodshot as snot rolled down his nose.

“You poor thing...what happened? Why are you crying?” Hoseok inquired, reaching into the bedside table to fish out a box of tissues. He gently wiped Jimin’s cheeks before pressing the tissues to his nose. Jimin held his wrist and blew weakly, feeling a slight relief from the congestion of his nose as Yoongi’s cat-like eyes watched his every move, concern shining in his face.

He looked away from Yoongi, guilt pulsing through their link.

He’d made them stop their fun to humor his little breakdown. He really was the worst.

Yoongi and Hoseok felt the second pulse of guilt get overridden with the feeling of self loathing, and without sharing a word, both men sandwiched Jimin in between them from a group hug.

The smallest man tensed, tears springing up in his eyes again. He wanted more attention from them, yes, but the doubt of his own self worth kept him from enjoying the sensation. He hated this feeling.

“Talk to us, baby. What happened?” Hoseok tried again and Jimin clenched his fists before burying his face in Yoongi’s shoulder.

“Do...do you all still love me? Am I in the way?” He inquired softly. Both men tensed and the other four stood around him, eyes wide.

“Jimin-”

“No one wants to spend time with me anymore. The movies, the music, the dates...why is everyone avoiding me?” Jimin’s voice quivered as he spoke and he did his best to formulate actual sentences.

“I...I feel like a third wheel to this relationship. Is everyone ignoring my emotions? I know you can feel them and-”

“No, no baby it’s not like that.” Namjoon was at his side in a moment, kissing his cheeks as he cupped his cheeks. Jimin looked up at him and Namjoon felt his heart break.

God, they fucked up.

“I’m not going to make any excuses for any of us. We should have noticed. You’re not a third wheel, baby. We love you.” Their leader continued with his soothing tone. Jimin lowered his eyes to Yoongi’s shoulder, unable to meet any of their gazes.

The other men all exchanged looks, but none of them said a word until the fatigue of the day caused Jimin to pass out slowly.

Once they all felt he was completely asleep, all eyes turned to their leader as they all visited from their respective locations.

Namjoon was driving back to their shared home, jaw set while Jungkook leaned up from the back seat.

“What are we going to do? We really messed up bad.” He voiced what they were all thinking and they shared a collective harsh sigh.

“We have to make it up to him. It was our own negligence that lead to this. Apologize properly when he’s awake and make sure he feels loved. Jimin is an important part of our cluster and our lives and I don’t want him-or any of you-to ever feel like this. We’re gonna let him rest and start tomorrow.” He told them, the determination to fix this problem shining in his eyes. Jungkook relaxed back into the seat and nodded with the rest of them.

-The Next Morning-

When Jimin woke up, the first thing he noticed was his inability to move. He was wedged between Namjoon and Taehyung and when he lifted his head to locate the other men, he saw he was the one who had taken the middle spot, with the other five (Jin seemed to be missing from the pile) men keeping him warm. He blushed and wiggled, trying to free himself from the pile.

It was a difficult task, but eventually he managed to do so, shuffling carefully out of the center so he wouldn’t step on any of his slumbering boyfriends. He looked back at them, a bittersweet smile on his face when he saw them all.

They all looked so perfect, even without him there.

He felt a twinge of that self loathing come back, so he ducked his head and left the room, not noticing Namjoon peeking at him through one of his cracked open eyes.

Jimin made his way to the kitchen, seeing Jin had started cooking breakfast. He placed a hand against the doorway, knocking gently to get his attention. Jin smiled at him and he responded with a soft smile of his own.

“‘Mornin, hyung.” he greeted.

“Good morning, Chim. I’ll be making your favorite pancakes, too. Have a seat, alright?” Jin instructed, turning back to the stove. Jimin hesitated before he moved to sit, playing with his fingers as he waited.

He stared at Jin’s back as he cooked, watching the oldest glide around the kitchen, plucking seasonings and foods from cabinets, the fridge, and the freezer effortlessly as he made their large breakfast.

“Hyung, do you need any help?” Jimin inquired after five minutes had gone by. Jin slid the breakfast sausages into the oven and nodded.

“If you could, could you come over here and mix the batter for the pancakes? We’ll need a lot.” Jin told him, offering him a large mixing bowl. Jimin smiled, grateful Jin was giving him the opportunity to help. He was hoping they wouldn’t be mad at him after his outburst yesterday.

He chewed on his lip as Jin began washing out some fruits in the sink.

“Hyung...about last night...can we forget it? Can we pretend I didn’t say those things? I didn’t mean to accuse you all of not loving me and ignoring me…”He trailed off. The kitchen fell into a silence as Jin kept his eyes on the strawberries in his palm. The oldest sighed and tapped the back of the faucet to shut the water off. He picked up the strainer the fruit was in, letting the water drain out of it before he moved to Jimin’s side, slicing some of the red berries.

“You shouldn’t apologize for telling us how you feel. If we made you feel like this, you should say it. That way we can make sure we don’t ever let it get this bad again. You’re important to us.” Jin hummed, taking the cut berries in his hands and walking behind Jimin, who had slowed his stirring as he thoughtfully looked into the white mix.

Jin dropped the berries into the bowl, pressing Jimin against the counter as he wrapped his arms around his back. The smaller man nearly dropped the bowl, had Jin not have closed his larger hands over Jimin’s.

“We’re sorry. The only ones who should be apologizing is us.” Jin spoke directly into his ear and Jimin felt his knees buckle slightly. He had a weak spot for being pinned down, but now wasn’t the time for him to be getting excited over nothing.

“But I-”

“Shh. We have to make breakfast.” Jin teased, placing his hand over Jimin’s as they stirred the batter. The younger man nodded and complied, trying not to think about how close Jin was to him.

Or how many times the members of the cluster had fooled around in the kitchen.

Jin noticed the pulse of embarrassment and arousal radiating off of the smaller man and he grinned, setting the bowl down and placing his palms down on the counter by either side of Jimin’s hips.

He peppered Jimin’s neck in kisses, smiling when the smaller man tried to suppress his giggles. Jimin blushed to the tips of his ears, breath hitching up when he felt Jin palming the front of his quickly tenting boxers.

“H-hyung, the breakfast…”Jimin protested, though he pressed closer to Jin’s hand. The older man smiled against the pale skin of his neck.

“The oven is on low. I can be quick, just keep stirring.” Jin gave his ass a slap and sunk to his knees and Jimin gasped when he felt the cool air of the kitchen hit his ass as Jin tugged his boxers down as he went.

“Turn around for me, Chim.” Jin purred and Jimin obeyed, flustered. His hands shook as he held onto the mixing bowl, his cock twitching as Jin teasingly blew along the length. He took Jimin’s cock in his hand and ran his tongue up the underside from base to tip, reveling in the full-body shiver that went through the younger sensate.

Jin made a point to watch every expression on Jimin’s face as he bobbed his head, taking a bit more each time. Jimin’s grip on the spoon and bowl tightened as he let out a shaky breath, resisting the urge to roll his hips up into the warm sensation of Jin’s mouth. The oldest used one of his hands to stroke whatever wasn’t in his mouth, pulling Jimin closer with his other hand.

“H-Hyung! Please…” Jimin whined, biting his lip when Jin rolled his tongue over his sensitive head. He made a point to sound as sloppy as he could, enjoying the way Jimin’s resolve broke. He set the bowl aside without another moment’s hesitation, one hand shakily on the back of Jin’s head.

Jin could tell he was holding back, probably afraid he would choke the older man if he thrusted up. In response, he removed his own hand from Jimin’s dick, eyes sliding closed as he took the entirety of Jimin’s cock in his mouth.

The smaller man was far from the biggest or thickest out of the seven men, but Jin still enjoyed giving him blowjobs as much as he did the others.

Mostly because Jimin was the most responsive one.

“H-Hyung, more. Oh my god…” Jimin tilted his head back, giving Jin an experimental few thrusts to make sure he didn’t catch him off-guard. Jin took it in stride, placing a hand on his thigh. They often used signals during sex to make sure they were all on the same page in case it wasn’t clear through their connection.

Jimin could feel that Jin was relaxed and eager, and the light tap on his thigh was a sign from the oldest to do what he wanted.

Fingers shaking, Jimin ran his fingers into Jin’s hair, gripping firmly as he thrusted forward, shaky mewls leaving his lips as he fucked his hyung’s mouth. Jin was painfully hard himself from the treatment and teasing as he shifted on his knees, dipping his hand into his own pajama pants to stroke his aching cock.

“W-We’re gonna wake the others if you stay so loud, Jiminie~” Jin teased as he popped his mouth off for a moment, knowing full well the other men wouldn’t be able to ignore the dual sense of arousal rolling off the two men in waves. Jin pulled his sleep pants down more so he could stroke himself more freely while Jimin blushed, his bottom lip plumper than usual from him biting it to keep his moans down.

It was a fruitless effort since they were all connected, but that made it all that much cuter, in Jin’s opinion.

“Fuuck fuck fuck I’m close. Hyung!” Jimin’s hips began to stutter, so Jin pressed hum flush against the counter, taking over by bobbing his head quicker than he was before. Jimin’s grip in his hair tightened to the point that it was borderline painful, but Jin wasn’t at all opposed to the jolt that came from the action. He stroked himself at the same pace as his head movements, his thumb smearing precum over his head as he watched Jimin unravel before him.

“G-Gonna cum gonna cum, please please please-” Jimin pulled harder, this time trying to yank Jin off before he came in his mouth, but the oldest wouldn’t budge, swallowing around Jimin’s twitching cock.

All it took was a few more bobs before Jimin came with a cry, rope after rope of cum filling Jin’s mouth. He swallowed most of it, pulling off of Jimin’s cock as he continued stroking himself, feeling his own release quickly approaching.

He glanced up, seeing Jimin stare down at him with lust-blown eyes, cheeks red and sweat rolling down his temple as he held his gaze. The older Sensate’s eyes moved to his lips as Jimin weakly called to him.

“H-Hyung…”

Jin came nearly on the spot, the milky drops landing on the dark tile of the kitchen between his knees.

They all had a soft spot for Jimin’s lips. Honestly, who wouldn’t?

Jimin blushed and moved to get paper towels as Jin tucked himself back into his pants. The older man took them as soon as he returned, refusing to let Jimin clean up the mess. Jimin pouted at him as he watched the older man clean. Jin ignored him and stood to dispose of the soiled tissues, moving to go to the sink to wash his hands.

“You came a lot. Have you been pent up, baby?” Jin teased after a moment of silence, hands soapy. Jimin blushed hard and went to swat at him when he noticed Jin still had a bit of his cum at the corner of his lips.

Blushing, he leaned up to lick it off, shying when Jin sent him a coy look.

Later, when the rest of the boys filed into the kitchen one by one, Yoongi took note of the difference in the piles of pancakes between the boys.

“Didn’t you want more food, Jin? You barely have any on your plate.” He mused.

Jin only smiled as he drank his coffee.

“I had some breakfast earlier, actually.” He chirped, and Jimin choked from across the table.

-2 Days Later, Cafe Thief’s Heart-

Jimin sighed as he brewed the next batch of coffee. There was a customer outside that had been giving him trouble for a while now, but he did his best not to let it get to him. Ji-Woo would no doubt cause a scene and both Taehyung and Jungkook were usually busy helping out somewhere else in the cafe to come to his aid.

He shook his head, slapping his cheeks. He had to focus.

There’s no way he should need the younger men to run to his aid, anyway.

He exhaled and brought the ice coffee to the man with a slice of cake, shuddering at the way the middle-aged man eyed him when he set the food down. He stood and politely bowed and went to leave when the man leaned up and sent him a flirtatious smile.

“Y’know, I think you’re pretty cute, Jimin. Maybe we could get this to go, hm?” He winked and Jimin felt physically ill. Despite that, he sent him his best customer service smile and shook his head.

“No thank you, sir. If you’d like, I could put your things in to-go containers.” He offered. The man’s face turned and he rolled his eyes.

“Think you’re too good to go out with me? Pathetic. It would be your honor to date someone with as much wealth as I have.” He grunted, clearly annoyed he had been rejected. Jimin’s brow twitched in annoyance. Though he didn’t have the most highest of paying jobs working for Ji-Woo’s cafe, but he enjoyed working with his best friend more than anything.

Plus, several of his partners had more than enough wealth that even if that was the defining factor in whether he went out with someone (it wasn’t. How shallow is that?), they had that more than covered.

“That’s too bad you feel like that. Enjoy your order, sir.” Jimin muttered through gritted teeth as he spun on his heel. He had gotten around four steps away before he heard the sound of glass breaking.

Closing his eyes and collecting himself, he turned, rage bubbling up when he saw the cake slice on the floor and the man faking a shocked expression.

“Oh no, my cake fell! Could you clean this up, Jimin? Someone could fall on this.” He informed him, taking a sip of his iced coffee. Jimin gritted his teeth and went to grab a small bag they kept in their aprons, kneeling down to pick up the large glass pieces first. The man swirled the iced coffee for a moment before he popped the cap off, looking into the cup.

“I think you should check this out too, Jim-Jim. It doesn’t taste right. You agree, right?” The man sneered, pouring the iced coffee on Jimin’s head. The small man leapt up, a startled gasp leaving his lips as the cold drink rolled down the back of his neck and down his shirt. He shook, tears sprouting up in the corners of his eyes as the other customers turned their attention to the scene.

“I told you I wanted a double shot of vanilla syrup in it. Couldn’t get that right either?” The man chuckled. Jimin clenched his fists, body shaking as he felt the fresh embarrassment roll over him.

Before anyone could see him cry, a towel fell over his head and he was pulled against a warm body. Blinking, he looked up to see Taehyung standing protectively over him while Jungkook yanked the man up by his shirt. The youngest man sent him a dangerous smile, ignoring all the complaining about harassment from the man as he began dragging him outside.

“You all see this! This is assault and harassment! I’ll ruin you!” He barked,

Ji-Woo stood at the counter, arms crossed.

“Get this trash out of my shop. I absolutely don’t condone customers treating my employees and friends like shit.”

“Don’t worry, dude. You’re free to try that slick shit with me.” Jungkook threatened as he pulled him outside. The other customers began chattering, but not a single one looked like they would call the police on them, so Jimin was relieved. Tae frowned and looked down at him.

“Hyung...you’re shaking. C’mon, lets get you out of that. Woo-Ya, Kook and I are gonna take him home when he gets changed. Is that okay?” He inquired. Ji-Woo smiled and nodded.

“It’s fine. Minjun and I can hold down the fort. It’s almost closing time anyway.” She waved them off and Tae bowed in gratitude, pulling Jimin into the back room.

“Are you alright?” He asked as he pulled the uniform shirt off. Jimin nodded, coffee still dripping from his hair. His shirt was no doubt ruined, but he couldn’t help the warm feeling of relief that filled him. He felt more appreciated each day and although he would much rather do without the altercation moments ago, he still felt his heart swell two sizes from Tae and Jungkook coming to his aid.

“Hyung, you’re spacing out.” Tae teased. Jimin blushed and both of them startled when Jungkook slammed the door to the room, storming in as he marched up to the shorter Busan native. He took Jimin’s face in his hands, checking for injuries before he made eye contact.

“I beat his ass.”

“I know. Thank you, Kook.” He cooed, pressing his cold hands on top of Jungkook’s. The maknae sent him a smile and gave him his jacket. Jimin noticed Taehyung and Jungkook kept him firmly wedged between them as they walked home.

He blushed and smiled, inhaling Jungkook’s scent.

-30 Minutes Later-

Y’know, he didn’t mean this when he said they had him wedged between them, but he wouldn’t complain.

Currently, Jimin was straddling Taehyung’s waist, both of their cocks slick with cum as they rutted against one another while Jungkook had a near bruising grip on the older man’s waist, hips slapping against Jimin’s plump ass as he rocked into him.

Shortly after he took a shower (with both of them insisting they join), the three youngest sensates stumbled into the bedroom, soaked bodies falling to the sheets. It was a flurry of hands groping at whatever they could (“We’ve got to make sure to warm you up real good, hyung”) and lips on skin (“You still taste like coffee, Jiminie. Delicious.”)

Taehyung had fucked him first, kissing the back of his neck while Jungkook stroked both his and Jimin’s cocks in unison, groaning against his lips as they kissed. He’d barely had a chance to rest before the two switched positions, with Jungkook fucking him much faster than Tae did, leaving Jimin a babbling mess as each thrust sent his cock sliding against Taehyung’s.

He leaned down to kiss him sloppily, the desperate growls leaving Jungkook’s lips behind him telling them both that he was close. The youngest leaned down, effectively sandwiching Jimin between them both.

“So pretty, hyung. You gonna cum? You wanna show Tae Tae that beautiful face when you do?” He teased, pulling Jimin’s hair so he arched up. Taehyung looked up, groaning when he saw how far gone Jimin was.

He lifted his own hips, thrusting against Jimin’s cock faster while Jungkook fucked him hard. It wasn’t much longer until all three of them came, sweat and cum running down their bodies as they collapsed on top of one another.

“Aigoo, you’re both heavy! Get off!” Tae complained half heartedly. Jungkook sent him a crooked smile and Jimin kissed his nose to appease him. They all broke out into comfortable laughter and laid together until they had enough energy to drag themselves out of bed and take another shower, making sure to change the sheets before any of their hyungs got home.

The other four came home to them cuddling in a pile together.

-3 Days Later, Genius Lab-

“Nnng….”

“Ah, you wanted to make music, Jimine. The recording won’t pick it up if you hold back.”

“T-This isn’t what I-ohh fuck yes yes-this isn’t what I meant!”

“If audio doesn’t work, we could always shoot a ‘music video’.”

Jimin was about to come up with a retort, but Hoseok picked up his pace, rolling his hips expertly as he rocked into the smaller man. Yoongi had been calmly teasing him the whole time, lazily stroking his dick from across the room as he watched the two fuck like rabbits on the couch he had in his studio.

Hmph. Voyeur.

“Hobi fuck! Right there right there yes!” He gasped, nails running down Hoseok’s back as the pyromancer hit him just right. Hoseok licked his lips and sat up, hooking his hands under the back of Jimin’s knees, holding them apart as he rocked into him.

“O-Ohh fuck fuck fuck!” Jimin threw his head back, cock leaking against his abs as his balls drew up, feeling another orgasm creeping closer.

“He’s gonna cum again, Yoongs. Look at him.” Hoseok purred affectionately, thumbs rubbing the back of Jimin’s thighs. Jimin trembled, looking over at Yoongi and whining pathetically.

“I-I want to make you feel good too, hyung. Ahh, fuck!” Jimin closed his eyes, moments away from his orgasm when it suddenly…..stopped.

He gasped in surprise, eyes flying open as Hoseok spilled inside of him again, but his own orgasm was prevented by the shadow wrapped around his cock, effectively preventing him from cumming. He panted, looking over at Yoongi as the oldest man in the room sent him a coy smile.

“H-Hyung-”

“You said you wanted to make me feel good. I would never deny my baby boy that. What kind of mean hyung do you think I am?” The DJ cooed, sending him a sly smile. Hoseok laughed tiredly, gently sliding out of Jimin. He could tell Yoongi was about to take over and he didn’t want to miss a moment.

They all loved when he got like this.

“C’mon then, Jimin. Come make me feel better, then.” Yoongi beckoned him over in a tone that told Jimin there was something more to it. He would be lying if he said he wasn’t excited. He slid off the couch, still feeling weak from the several times he and Hoseok had fucked previously. He panted, blushing as he felt mentioned man’s cum start to leak down his thighs.

Yoongi noticed and smirked, raising his hand.

A shadow shaped like a hand scooped up some of the cum, lifting it to Jimin’s lips. The barista didn’t hesitate, flicking his tongue to lick it off immediately. Yoongi’s chest rumbled in satisfaction and he propped his head up on his chin, lips quirking as he saw Jimin’s knees buckle again as he tried to continue walking.

“Maybe you should crawl. Wouldn’t want you to fall, baby.” Yoongi offered, still stroking his cock with his free hand. Jimin nodded and got on his hands and knees, biting his lip as he felt his still-restricted cock bob from the motion.

“Oh, hyung you're a real sadist.” Hoseok chuckled, eyes trained on Jimin’s ass as he made his way to Yoongi slowly. The DJ didn’t respond verbally, but the look of satisfaction on his face told them both all that they needed to know.

He really did love using his powers during sex.

Jimin was around a foot or two away from the chair Yoongi was sitting in when the older man decided he hadn’t teased him enough. He sat up, flicking the hand that wasn’t on his cock. In moments, Jimin’s knees almost failed him as he felt something slide into his slick hole.

His cheeks went red as he watched Yoongi’s hand move, the shadow fucking him hard. He groaned, forehead dropping to the floor as he let himself be taken.

“What’s wrong, Jimin? If you wanted to please me, you should be able to crawl over here still, yes? Or does it feel too good?” He taunted, spreading his fingers apart.

Jimin’s eyes nearly rolled back as he felt it expand, growing thicker than it was before. Each thrust was a deliberate, hard jab that always got so close to his spot but never went deep enough to satisfy him. The ring around his cock was a reminder that he wouldn’t be feeling any release until Yoongi was satisfied, either.

“C’mon baby. Don’t you want your Hyung’s cock?” Yoongi teased, licking his own precum off of his fingers. Jimin nodded, slowly resuming his crawling. His mewls and moans filled the soundproofed room as he god closer and closer, body shuddering as he felt oh so close to orgasm.

It took two and a half minutes before Jimin reached Yoongi, panting as he rested his head on Yoongi’s leg, rocking his ass back against the shadow still fucking him. The man had came dry at least once and Yoongi smiled down at him, petting his head.

“Good boy, Jimin. You got enough energy to ride my cock?”

“Mmmnm.”

“Words, baby.”

“Y-Yes, Yoongi.”

Satisfied, Yoongi dispelled the shadow, chuckling when he heard Jimin whine in disapproval. He kissed his cheek and picked him up, seating Jimin in his lap as he held his cock up for him.

“C’mon baby. Show me how much you want this dick.” He ordered, slapping his ass. Jimin gasped and nodded, sinking down on Yoongi’s thick dick. His eyes nearly rolled back in pleasure as he felt himself being filled again. He leaned closer to Yoongi, pressing loving kisses to his face as he let his hips rise and fall.

Yoongi kissed and bit at his neck, hands on his hips as he growled sweet nothings into his ear, the wet sound of their fucking turning Hoseok on. He noticed the irony in the situation, with him and Yoongi switching places as he now watched the older man fuck their boyfriend.

Jimin was already sensitive from several other rounds, so Yoongi didn’t tease him for too long. He could feel the man already start to float away from the sheer amount of pleasure he’d gotten that night.

Pale arms wrapped around Jimin’s body and Yoongi took over, rocking hard and fast into him as the shadow around Jimin’s cock released. The older man kept him grounded as Jimin cried out, cumming hard against Yoongi’s stomach, nearly passing out from the stimulation. Yoongi kept him tight against his chest, cumming himself once he felt Jimin’s slick walls clench around him. The strong pulse of ecstasy from Jimin pushed Hoseok into another orgasm and all of them took a minute or two to collect themselves.

Yoongi could feel Jimin crying in his arms, still not quite down from the high of sex. He cooed gently, kissing him as he picked him up. Hoseok smiled tiredly and followed him, all three of them washing off by taking a bath.

Jimin was sat between Yoongi’s legs, sleepily nuzzling his chest as Hoseok sat behind him, washing his hair. Both men kissed him periodically, telling him how much of a good job he did and he was out like a light before he even knew it.

Hoseok and Yoongi exchanged a fond smile before they carried Jimin to bed.

-3 Nights Later-

Jimin squirmed as Namjoon’s hands ran over his back. The older man had offered to give the younger man a massage, and Jimin couldn’t turn down an opportunity to spend time with him.

Plus, if this was anything like the others, he knew where this was going.

“The others really did a number on you, hm? You’ve got hickies and bruises.” Namjoon hummed, looking at the bruises over Jimin’s hips and the slight discoloration of his ass from spanking. He’d noticed the circles littering Jimin’s neck and chest when he massaged his front.

None of them would admit it, but they all had little competitions to leave as many hickies as they could and with how adamant they all were to make sure Jimin never felt excluded again, he had a few more love bites than usual.

“It wasn’t anything I didn’t like. I really appreciate everyone.” Jimin muttered, groaning in relief when Namjoon started to work a particularly tense knot out of his lower back. He hummed in delight.

“I’m glad. We really are sorry we made you feel like that. I’ve been paying extra careful attention to the links, too. I want to make sure it doesn’t happen again.” Namjoon told him, hands moving down to squeeze and knead at his ass.

Jimin blushed and bit his lip.

“I-I appreciate it.” He murmured, twitching when Namjoon pressed a kiss to his spine.

“I didn’t offer to give you a massage with the intent to fuck you, but feel free to tell me if that’s what you want.” He teased, fingers running closer to Jimin’s crack. He spread them for a moment before moving further down.

Jimin sighed shakily, feeling Namjoon’s breath on the back of his thighs. He felt bold today, so he lifted his ass, shaking slightly.

“Are you gonna deliver if it is what I want?” He inquired. Namjoon flashed him a dimpled smirk before he continued massaging the back of his thighs.

“You know I will. Just say so.”

“I want it.”

Immediately, those hands were off of his thighs and back on his ass, long fingers sliding between his cheeks to tease his asshole, chuckling when Jimin took it upon himself to spread his cheek apart, fully exposing his eager hole to the other man.

“We’ve really made you shameless, huh?” Namjoon chuckled, sliding two of his fingers into him. Jimin sighed and pressed his cheek to the pillow.

“Y-You can say that.” He murmured, his cock stirring to life as Namjoon pumped his fingers in and out, slowly scissoring them apart. Jimin didn’t need much prep since he had been so active recently, but Namjoon prefered to slowly pick his boyfriends apart before he fucked them. It was something that drove the more impatient ones mad, but they never complained seriously about his methods.

He pulled his fingers free when Jimin began rocking back, replacing them with his tongue, flicking deviously at his rim before he slid it right inside. Jimin’s fists tightened in the sheets as Namjoon’s tongue worked in and out of him. The ex-nurse raked his fingers down Jimin’s thighs lightly, humming when he felt the goosebumps rise up on his skin immediately afterwards.

Jimin’s small mewls turned into pants as minutes went by and Namjoon didn’t let up until Jimin was practically begging him to do more.

He gave his ass a playful slap as he sat up, tapping Jimin’s leg to get his attention as he unbuckled his pants.

“Turn around, baby. I want to watch your face.” He told him and Jimin blushed, hesitantly rolling onto his back. Namjoon looked down at him, his big hand wrapping around Jimin’s cock, giving him a few strokes as he lined his head up to his ass with his free hand.

“You ready?”

“Yes, Joon.” Jimin nodded, love and adoration shining in his eyes. Namjoon leaned down to kiss him, distracting him from the momentary discomfort from the initial penetration. Jimin gasped against his lips and Namjoon slid his tongue into his mouth, kissing him deeper.

Jimin realized Namjoon was letting him set the pace of the kiss as he slowly rocked into him and he teasingly nibbled his bottom lip, wrapping his arms around the older man’s neck. Namjoon chuckled arily and responded with a deep thrust before returning to his sensual pace.

When he broke the kiss, Jimin was panting. Namjoon kissed at his throat, and he waited for the familiar sting of a bite or nibble, but was instead met with more kisses as Namjoon made his way down until he flicked his tongue over one of his nipples. Jimin shuddered and Namjoon chuckled against the hardened bud, rolling the other one between his fingers as he relished every small gasp and moan that tumbled out of the smaller man.

“J-Joonie...Ahh please faster.”

Ah, there was the begging.

Namjoon would normally tease him for much longer, but instead, he pushed both of Jimin’s hands above his head, pinning them there as he increased his pace dramatically. The barista cried out in delight, arching his back as Namjoon fucked him. There were lips against his face, his cheeks, and even his chest and Jimin could feel he wouldn’t last as long as usual if this kept up this way.

“Look at you, baby, You’re so handsome when you fall apart for me. Look at me,” Namjoon nudged him, rolling his hips so the tip of his cock brushed against Jimin’s sweet spot with each thrust. Moaning louder and struggling to focus, Jimin looked up, finding Namjoon staring lovingly at him. The others were around him on the bed and in his lust-hazed mind, he couldn’t tell if they were actually there or visiting him through their connection.

“We love you baby. Don’t forget that.”

It didn’t matter which one said it. It could’ve been one of them, or all of them, but Jimin just closed his eyes. His voice cracked as he cried out, cumming with Namjoon. He felt the aftershocks of sex and trembled, pressing close to Namjoon when the larger man hugged him.

He rocked Jimin, kissing his head as he reached into their bedside table. They always kept tissues and wipes there for obvious reasons. Jimin shivered when Namjoon wiped the cum off his stomach and the cum from between his legs, smiling tiredly at their leader after he tossed it in the bedside trash can.

Namjoon pulled him in close, tucking Jimin’s head under his chin. Jimin happily hugged him back, the sound of Namjoon’s heartbeat being comforting. Namjoon rubbed soothing circles against his back, kissing the top of his head as he started to drift off.

“I love you guys.” Jimin murmured sleepily, eyes heavy. Namjoon chuckle and closed his eyes.

“And we love you, Jimin.” Namjoon responded, and the strong pulse of love and contentedness was something they all felt through their connections.

[aaronhart93-archive]

i’m sorry || aaroman

Discord thread featuring: Aaron & @romanbeckett

Mentions: @alison-haynes

When: 18th August

Description: Aaron goes over to Roman’s apartment and they officially break up.

Trigger Warnings: alcoholism

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman rubbed at his eyes, which were burning not only from being tired, but because he’d done nothing but cry for the last twenty four hours. He was scared to talk to Aaron, because he didn’t want to just lay over, and take what he’d been through. He was terrified that he’d forgive him so quickly like he wanted to, and that it would open things up to happen again. Aaron needed to know what happened wasn’t okay, but at the same time...how was Ro supposed to function without him now? So many thoughts were running through his mind as he gnawed away on his nails, chipping his nail polish, which really made him sad. He continued to do it anyway though out of nerves. It felt like the only thing distracting him right now as he sat on the couch in an oversized hoodie, underwear, and messy hair...waiting for Aaron

Aaron

The first time Aaron had gotten out of bed today had been to shower to go over to Roman's apartment. He cancelled all of his meetings, and Alison had to come over to make sure he ate and at least moved around a little bit. The last time he cried this much had been when his dad passed away. So this was truly one of the worst days of his life. How could he be so stupid? Aaron wasn't sure what the goal of this meeting was going to be. He just knew that it needed to happen. There was still a pit in his stomach even after his hangover had went away. After he finally put some clean clothes on, brushed his teeth and ran his hands through his hair a few times he made his way over to Roman's apartment. He wasn't sure if he should just walk in like normal or knock and wait for Roman to come to the door. Instead, he knocked lightly a couple of times and poked his head into the apartment. "Roman..." He said, opening the door a bit more.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Ro looked over when he heard a few knocks, eyes on the other male with the smallest smile as a greeting. He didn’t move from the couch like he normally would to tackle his boyfriend at the door. It didn’t mean he didn’t want to. Fuck, he wanted to so bad. He wanted to fall at Aaron’s feet actually, tell him it’s okay, and be glad that what had happened last night wasn’t what the other had meant to happen. But, he couldn’t do any of that. “Hey.” He said once Aaron was a little closer, having left a spot for him on the couch.

Aaron

That was an unusual greeting and certainly not what he was used to. But...he couldn't blame Roman. He kind of just stared at Roman for a second before he walked into his apartment completely and kicked off his shoes. He looked so sad, and it fucking hurt Aaron to no end to know that Aaron had been the one to cause that hurt. Tears started pricking at his eyes just at the thought of that. He sniffled and blinked several times to try to fight the tears. He finally worked up the strength to move to sit next to Roman on the couch. "Hi..." He mumbled, looking up at Roman briefly then looking down at his hands. He couldn't bring himself to look at him for long.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman watched Aaron closely, because he didn’t know how not to look at the man when he was in the room. Plus, he’d never seen him like this before. He was crying, and Roman couldn’t think of a single time he’d seen the other male cry. He grabbed the front of his jumper and fisted it over his heart, like there was an actual aching there that he was trying to soothe. After a few seconds on silence, Roman finally took a deep sigh, and tried to keep his voice as steady as possible. “I know you’re sorry. I know you, and I know...you didn’t mean for last night to happen.” He sucked his lips into his mouth to wet them. “But, it did. It happened, and you really...hurt me.”

Aaron

Aaron just continued to look into his lap as Roman spoke. He bit his lip in an attempt to keep himself from crying but that really did no use. As soon as Roman told him that he hurt him he completely lost it. He knew that he hurt the taller already, but hearing his say that out loud in that perfect, deep voice made him so sad. Aaron just put his hands in his face and let out a stifled sob. There were so many emotions running through him; anger at himself, sadness, fear, embarrassment. "Oh, God. I'm so sorry." He practically wailed, keeping his face in his hands.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman’s heart felt like it stopped when Aaron broke down like that. Christ. He immediately went into his usual empathetic mode, because this was his love, his baby, his Aaron. He didn’t like seeing him like this, and making him sob was breaking his heart all over again. He instantly swooped in to wrap his arms around the man, pulling him close to hold him while he cried. Ro couldn’t stand this, and he sure as fuck couldn’t just let him sit there and break down without him. He could have murdered someone, and Roman would still comfort him this way. Maybe he didn’t know what to say at the moment, but his body knew what to do.

Aaron

Aaron just kept apologizing into his chest. No matter how hurt he was, he still felt so safe in Roman's warm, strong arms. He loved being in those fucking arms. It was one of his favorite places to be. This just made him cry more, of course, because Aaron just kept thinking about how he didn't deserve this type of empathy from Roman right now but knew that Roman couldn't help it. He knew that the other was physically feeling his pain as well as his own pain. This just made Aaron so upset. Aaron never wanted to be the cause of Roman's hurt because he already knew that he was hurting enough to begin with. Fuck.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman looked up to the ceiling as Aaron cried in his arms, and apologized over, and over again. He closed his eyes, and felt the tears that had been surfacing, fall down his cheeks. It burned, but there’s no way he could stop them if he tried at the point. This was hard, for so many reasons. He wanted to just say it was okay, take him back, and just move on with their lives. Maybe he should do that, but he didn’t know. God. He was so lost, and had never been so lost. “You’re okay.” Roman decided to say instead, because no matter what happened at the end of this conversation, he just wanted Aaron to be okay, and he hopefully would be.

Aaron

Aaron just kept crying. He really thought he'd exhausted all of his tears throughout the day. But no. They flowed easily. He tried to stop but he just hurt so much. He couldn't believe this was happening. It seriously didn't even feel real, especially since he had no clue what he had said to Roman last night. Just the basic rundown. How many more times was going to fuck up something good in his life because he let his drinking get the best of him. This was no doubt probably the worst thing that he had ever done while he was drunk. He didn't believe that he did what he did last night. But here they were.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman just held Aaron for awhile, rocking him back and forth gently while he ran his fingers through his hair, nails against his scalp. He was doing everything he knew he could do to calm the smaller down for now. Everything else could come after. Nothing productive was going to come out of Aaron having a panic attack. “Breathe.” He instructed one as calm a voice as he could muster while his fingertips traced along Aaron’s scalp.

Aaron

Aaron took several short breaths in and out, trying to calm himself down. His breath was shaky at first, but after a few minutes of trying to breath he was finally able to get his breaths to be slow and steady. Well, at least slow and steady to the point where he felt like he could have a conversation with him. He sat up and rubbed his shirt on his face to wipe the tears and snot off of his face. He sniffled several times again before he was finally to move his puffy eyes to Roman's. "Okay." He said, lowly.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman got up as soon as Aaron finally was able to pull away from him, only long enough to grab a box of tissue, because, yeah. He didn’t want Aaron to wipe his body gunk all over his nice shirt. Plus, he had the Kleenex with lotion because, of course he did. “So. You’re getting help?” Ro tried to start the conversation after settling back down into the couch with a leg folded under him.

Aaron

Aaron grabbed a tissue from the box and wiped his face with it. "Fuck..." he whispered to himself when he realized just how hard he had been crying. He took a deep breathe when heard the next words come out of Roman's mouth. "Um..yeah." He took a deep breath in and out. He shoved the wet tissue in the pocket of his Adidas joggers and leaned back on the couch. "Yeah, I talked to Marissa today. I, um, she referred me to this guy." He said, looking down at his hands once again. Aaron didn't want to admit to a counselor that he was an alcoholic. Saying it out loud would only make it real. If this shit situation wasn't real enough for him.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman watched with a wrinkled nose when Aaron decided to just tuck his used tissue into his pocket, because Ro was OCD about random sanitary things, and was currently fighting himself not to pop back up and grab the trash can for the other male. “To what guy?” He asked curiously, because that didn’t sound so...reliable. “What do you mean by “referred you to this guy”? Is it a sponsor? A program?” Roman had a right to know, especially if this was going to work in the future.

Aaron

Aaron just nodded and understood why Roman was asking him. He had ever right to know after what Aaron had done to him. "No, it's this mental health counselor." He didn't exactly want to give away that Marissa had been through a lot of mental health problems after Delilah's death, and that this referral was from the treatment facility she went to for it. "But she said he could refer me to a good substance abuse counselor. Bea's on it first thing in the morning." He he assured him, rubbing his eyes

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

“Okay.” Roman nodded, and then leaned over to grab a cup of tea that he’d left sitting on his side table. He sipped on it for a few seconds, and closed his eyes. “Well that’s good. I’m proud of you. That’s a big step.” Roman knew he had no right to be saying any of this. He had his own set of issues that he needed to address, and yet he wouldn’t. Shocker. “I hope it helps...” fuck, what was he supposed to say? He just felt nervous, and started bouncing his knee.

Aaron

That wasn't exactly what he wanted to hear. *I'll take you back. We'll pretend like this never happened. I love you. * He needed to hear those words so badly right now, but he knew that that probably wouldn't happen. Actually it definitely wouldn't. Aaron pressed his elbow into the arm of the couch and rubbed his face with his hand. He took a deep breath in and out again. "Yeah..." He finally said, into his hand. "Me too." He finally looked over at Roman. "What are you thinking right now?" He felt like he needed to know what Roman wanted to do from here of else he'd die. He wanted to desperately to know what had been going on his head all day.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman took in a shaky breath, knocking his ringed thumb against the side of his mug a few times as he thought over how to answer Aaron’s question. What was he thinking? Or rather, what did he want to say that he was thinking. I want you to hold me. “I’m still here to watch Des, and I’ll be here for you while you’re going through this. Let’s jus’ see how that goes.” He muttered while looking down into his tea.

Aaron

Aaron felt sick. He was there to watch Des? He was there for him? Let's see how this goes?? Oh my god, they were actually going to break up. No. No. No. "Wait -- so you..." he began, taking a deep breath before he said his next words. "You actually want to break up?" He said, shaking his head as he felt tear pricking at his eyes again. Aaron had no idea what could have possibly ran through his head that would make him angry or upset enough to break up with Roman. That baby, Lois.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Fuck. Fuck fuck fuck. Roman felt his lip quiver when Aaron acted so shocked, like Roman was the one breaking them up when he didn’t want that responsibility. He was feeling backed into a corner, like he should just give in, and say he was sorry. He loved Aaron. So much. It’s not like he wanted this. “Aaron...please.” He practically begged, not wanting this to be any harder than it already was. Ro couldn’t even look at him now. If he did, he’d change his mind in a heartbeat, he knew he would. Even if Aaron reached over to grab his face, and force him to look. He’d be done for.

Aaron

Aaron wanted to beg Roman not to do this. Maybe he shouldn't. He should respect the fact that Roman wanted some space, and needed some time to think. But Aaron would feel so lost without him. Yeah, Aaron was the one who did this in the first place but Aaron was putting the choice in Roman's hands now. There was no way in hell Aaron wanted to break up with Roman for real, and he wasn't going to pretend like he wasn't going to fight tooth and nail for him. He fucked up, what he did was wrong. He didn't mean what he said...and no matter how childish it sounded he was taking it back. He hung his head and watched a few tears drip onto his sweatpants. "Please...don't do this." He begged.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman couldn’t handle this anymore. He was weak, and this was his partner. When Aaron begged him in return, he broke his wall, and turned to look at the smaller. “Please don’t cry.” He couldn’t stand that. He’d never experienced it before, and now that he had, it was too fucking much to handle. Truly. It literally made his heart break. “I’m not saying this is over forever. I jus’ need some time. We both do.” Ro tried to wager with the other, though he wasn’t sure if Aaron was going to take anything else as an acceptable answer right now.

Aaron

As hard as he tried to stop crying, he couldn't seem to make it stop. Even when he thought he had it under control for a couple of second, he would start crying again. Aaron wanted to continue to beg him not to do this. He wanted to scream, but he didn't think he was getting anywhere by doing that. "Fuck...fuck." He said to himself, when it slowly started sinking in that this was actually happening. He didn't want space. Why would he? Things had been perfect. "Things have been so good lately." He muttered. He just still couldn't believe this.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman wiped at his own eyes, and then turned back to face the wall opposite him. Aaron was making this harder and harder. How was he going to keep this up? “I’m...” he started, and then trailed off while running a hand over his face, and then left it there while he took in a few deep breaths. Ro was shutting down now, finding it impossible to form words.

Aaron

Aaron's head popped up eagerly as Roman started speaking. I'm what?? * I'm just kidding!! We're not breaking up. April fools.* Fuck, Aaron it was August. He looked over at his, almost too hopefully when he started speaking from frowned when he trailed off. "What??" He pried.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman simply shook his head, and then started crying himself, because he didn’t know what to say. Actually, he had a LOT of things he wanted to say, and then had words he should say. It was all jumbled in his head, and Roman felt like he could breathe. His throat felt tight, along with his chest, and he just shook his head, hoping Aaron wouldn’t ask him again.

Aaron

What could Aaron say? He wasn't going to sit here and continue begging him even though he wanted to do that so badly. He knew that that would just keeping hurting Roman, and Aaron couldn't do that again. He wouldn't. Instead, Aaron just rested his head on the taller's shoulders and wrapped his arms around his waist. Was it okay that he was doing this? After first, he thought that he should pull away. But as soon as he squeezed him tightly, he just couldn't let go .

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman let Aaron get close to him, because he didn’t have the strength to turn him away. This was the hardest thing he’d ever had to do. With Landon, he’d kind of seen it coming. His ex went off to uni, and met someone else. Soon, Roman was on the back burner, and Landon assumed they were equally drifting apart when the actor didn’t exactly see it that way. Roman had a feeling his childhood boyfriend would dump him, but this shit with Aaron? He wasn’t prepared at all to feel this way, therefor he had no idea what to do with it. “I want you to focus on getting better, and focus on that. I love you. That’s never going to change.” He sniffed.

Aaron

Why did this feel like a goodbye? It just couldn't be over. He did smile a little when Roman told him he loved him. He needed to hear that, but at the same time he still knew that Ro loved him. He had proven it countless times. And what had Aaron done to prove his love to Roman? Leave for work the morning after they were assaulted and drunkenly break his heart? He took several deep breaths because now his heart was just beating out of his chest and he could feel out red his ears were getting. He let out one more loud sniffle before he spoke. "I-I love you, too." He sat up to look at him.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman turned his head when Aaron sat up, and said he loved him, too. Ro reached to cup his jaw then, his thumb running along his tear moistened cheek, just under one of his amazingly blue eyes. “I know. I know you do.” He managed a small smile, though his eyes were still very much sad. “Everythin’ will be okay. It has to be.” He wasn’t sure exactly what he meant by that overall, but he knew their stories, individually and together, weren’t going to end here.

Aaron

Aaron's eyes closed shut when Roman said that he knew that Aaron loved him. Thank god. He closed his eyes, made an O with her lips and took a slow deep breath. His hand came up to meet Ro's on his cheek as he nuzzled himself in his hand. He opened his eyes and tried to smile back at Roman, but he could barely muster one. Whenever Aaron picture his future, Roman was in it. There was never a version of his future where Roman wasn't present. Fuck, he loved him so much and this made him so sick but he finally managed to let out an accepting "okay."

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman continued to caress the smaller’s cheek soothingly, trying to show him physically that he was still here, that the love wasn’t going anywhere. He still felt it just as strongly as he had from the first moment he felt it. Even moreso. They’d been through so much, and there’s no way he could want to completely give up just like that. But, Ro was struggling mentally right now, personally, and so was Aaron. It was a bad combination at the moment, and the last thing he wanted to do was drag Aaron down when he was trying so hard to be better. “Okay.” Roman repeated, and then moved in to wrap his arms around Aaron for a hug. He just needed one, and this way he could hide the heartbreak on his face for a moment.

Aaron

Aaron was terrified. He was terrified for what was to come. He knew that Roman believed what he said about this not being forever. But, God, he was so scared that Roman was going to change his mind. That he's going to like being single or with someone else better than he liked being with Aaron. So yeah, he wasn't really convinced that this was only a break. But he couldn't not hope. That would probably be one of the only things (and Des) keeping him going during this. He still felt so sick, but he embraced Roman's hug like his life depended on it.  "I love you, fuck." he said, into his shoulder.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman squeezed his eyes shut when Aaron said he loved him like that, tightening his arms around the other male desperately in a way. He didn’t want to let him go, physically, and mentally. “I love you, too. So much.” He assured Aaron, still not letting go now that he’d started. Dammit. He didn’t want this, but he couldn’t shake that it felt like the right thing to do for now, for both of them. “I love you. I love you, and Des.” He had to reiterate, because he needed Aaron to know.

Aaron

Aaron only tightened his grip around Roman when he repeatedly told him that he loved him and Des. Even though that didn't make him feeling much better, it was still so good to hear. He took a deep breath, gripping onto him tightly. Finally, he sat up to look Roman in the eyes. They looked so hurt. "We love you too." He said, again. "She just loves you so much." Oh, then there was Des. How was he ever going to explain this to her? She already had a hard time grasping the fact that Aaron wasn't the father of Alison's baby and now she'd have to try to process this. God.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman wanted to break down when Aaron pulled back to look at him like that, mentioning that Des loved him so much, and that was just...it made him look down, and close his eyes for more tears to build, and fall. “I want to still see her. If that’s okay? I just. I don’t want to be rash here, and break what I’ve built with her. She has a room here, and I can still keep her sometimes, I dunno. Maybe while you’re working, and I’m not, like I’ve been doing.” He tried to wager.

Aaron

Aaron just shook his head over and over. "Roman...Roman..." He began, his heart twisted with pain. "She's pretty much your kid at this point, too. I'd never keep her from you. Never. God...no. You can see her whenever you want." He told him. Not only did he want Destiny to see Roman - she loved him - but keeping her from him would actually mean that this relationship was over. And Aaron couldn't think about that right now. He couldn't even stomach that thought.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Ro wanted to break. So bad, but he had to try and at least maintain some sense of rationality. “Thank you.” He replied in an unsteady tone, reaching to grab Aaron’s hand, and squeeze it. Maybe they were taking a break for now, but he wasn’t going to be cold towards the other male. He loved Aaron, he wanted him to get help, he loved...his little family. “It’ll be okay.” He just kept saying that, because he had to. Roman had to believe it would all be okay, or he’d lose it.

Aaron

Aaron squeezed his hand tightly as his gaze fell to their intertwined hands. What now? Did he just leave? Was he allowed to text Roman good morning and good night? Would they still hang out? There was so much left unsaid. "When do you, erm, I mean...how long..." There was so many questions he wanted to ask, but he couldn't seem to get them out right now. "Can we still see each other? Or like...talk at least?" He said hesitantly, gaze flickering back up to his greens.(edited)

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman let out a small huff of a laugh when Aaron asked if they could still talk, as if he’d ever be able to just cut him off completely like that. He’d have to have done something really terrible to even consider that, and yeah. Even then, he’d probably still wouldn’t be able to do that. “Of course we can still talk.” He flicked his eyes back up to meet blue. “I’m not going to just cut you out completely.”

Aaron

Aaron tried his very hardest to force a smile, but he couldn't seem to muster one right now. But - fuck - when Roman and Aaron's eyes finally met he just felt some type of way. He didn't really quite understand it himself. He was finally able to give him a faint smile. Just looking at Roman always made him smile. He just wanted to kiss his perfect fucking face. But things were different now. "Okay...uh, good then." He squeezed his hand tighter. He couldn't let go.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Neither one of them wanted to let the other go. It felt too final if they did. Literally, Roman almost asked Aaron if he just wanted to stay the night. Why?? Why would he ask that? It just felt like...he couldn’t stand the thought of Aaron leaving, and spending the night alone. He’d already been without him last night. Another seemed like too much. “Well...” he managed a small chuckle, eyes now looking down at their hands that he was still very much keeping in tact.

Aaron

Aaron’s gaze followed Roman’s down to their hands that were gripping onto each other. “Well...” Aaron repeated, taking a big deep breath in a smiling lightly when he heard Ro chuckle. They sat in silence for a few more moments. He didn’t know where to go from here. “Should I, uh, go...or?” Please, Roman. Tell me to stay. this would just be all too real if he were to leave now. He looked back up at Roman with a hopeful look in his eye.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman was clearly having an inner battle as he looked at Aaron’s face, the face he’d come so accustomed to seeing every single day. He loved him so much, he selfishly didn’t want to let go, but what was he supposed to do? Staying the night would only complicate things further. That’s the last thing they needed. “I don’t...know.” He realized how dumb that sounded, but he was at a crossroads. “This is hard.”

Aaron

“I know...” Aaron’s face faltered, but Ro was right. This wasn’t an easy choice. They both clearly wanted to stay the night with each other, but what would that mean...actually Aaron didn’t know what that would mean. Part of him was still trying to convince himself that this wasn’t actually happening. He wanted to stay so badly, but was also trying to respect Ro’s wishes of wanting to take a break for a little bit. He swallowed hard. he was just realizing how dry his throat was. “It’s up to you.”

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman finally let go of Aaron’s hand so he could stand up. He needed to pop his back, and he also just wanted to walk around for a moment, and think. His thoughts were so jumbled, he couldn’t really sort through them. It was making trying to make a word out of a random assortment of letters. “I want you to, but I know we shouldn’t.” He was honest with the other male, though his back was doing the talking instead of being face to face. Once again, if he looked at Aaron, he’d change his mind.

Aaron

They shouldn’t?? Since when was spending the night together something they shouldn’t be doing? That just didn’t feel right to Aaron. He tried to steady his breath. “Okay.” Aaron stood up to head out the door but instead found himself press his torso into Roman’s back, wrapping his arms around his stomach tightly and nuzzling his face in the other’s shoulder. “Goodbye.”

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Ro really felt like he was going to be able to do this until Aaron pressed himself against his back, and then nuzzled into his shoulder. Roman felt like he couldn’t breathe, the goodbye weighing heavy on his stomach before he turned around, and wrapped his arms around the smaller. He buried his face in Aaron’s neck, taking in his scent, and feeling the warmth radiating from his skin. He didn’t wanna say goodbye. The incessant hand holding had now turned into the world’s most intense hug, and he didn’t want to let go. This is so fucking ridiculous, and they both probably knew that, but. What else was new?

Aaron

Aaron kind of just held onto Roman for a few moments like he was holding on for his his life. Like it was the last time he’d be holding him like this. This was ridiculous. Aaron should have been left Ro’s apartment. He was stalling. They were  both stalling at this point. Finally, after what seemed like forever but not long enough, Aaron slowly loosened his grip around the taller and took a step back. He sniffled because he was crying again, of course. He pressed his lips together and looked down at his feet as he made his way to the door to grab his shoes, avoiding eye contact with the other as he did. He opened the door and turned to Roman again. Just giving him one last time to change his mind. They could just pretend like these past 24 hours didn’t exist. He could do that no problem. “Alright...l’ll, um...Drop Des here Wednesday morning?” That made it sound like they were getting a fucking divorce.

𝐑𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 ✩

Roman watched Aaron walk away, even though it fucking hurt. He didn’t stop him. They both knew this was what needed to happen right now. Ro needed to take everything in. He was pulled from his thoughts when Aaron said he would drop Des off Wednesday morning, causing Roman to nod, and tuck his hands into the front pocket of his hoodie. “Yeah. Of course. That would be great.” He blinked a few times, now finding it hard NOT to look at Aaron even though he’d been trying to avoid it before. “Let me know...how everythin’ goes.”

Aaron

Aaron couldn't break his eye contact with Roman. Fuck, he didn't want to do this. His heart was internally screaming for him not to turn around and leave. He knew deep down that he had to, and not complicate things even further than they already were. Aaron couldn't stop thinking about the fact that this was all his fault. How none of this would have happened if he wasn't acting like a drunk idiot. "Okay, yeah, I will..." He blinked a few more times, and finally broke their eye contact. "Bye, Roman." He said, before nodding slowly and walking out of the apartment.

[sicklylittlesnowflake]

I am absolutely begging you to write a sick Jonathan Byers fic if you have the time😭😭 I just finished the first season of stranger things yesterday and I’m so in love with the idea of him getting sick. Thank you!!!!

(Ya girl is back! My writing is a bit rusty, and a little shorter but hopefully that’s ok!! I love my boi Jonathan, and I love u guys; so lets hope this goes well! Takes place only a bit after S1, so no s2 spoilers here for u anon!! :) )

Jonathan cannot afford to get sick.

And when he says that, the phrase extends to have multiple meanings. A.) it means that Jonathan in a literal sense of the word, cannot afford to get sick. The Byers are not rich, medicine is costly, and they rely Jonathan’s wages from the cinema, so Jonathan cannot afford to be sick.

And B.) It means Jonathan can’t get sick because he has way too many responsibilities in his life to get sick. Jonathan has to be a good son. He needs to cook his family breakfast, do his chores, take Will to school, all to keep his family afloat. But most of all, Jonathan has to be a good big brother, especially after the whole debacle that had happened with Will. Will needed him more than ever, and Jonathan was going to assert every fibre of his being to make Will feel safe again. And to do that, he couldn’t be sick because that would mean he could not put every joule of his energy into Will.

and C.) Jonathan cannot look weak. It is only now that Jonathan for the first time has two people who genuinely do want to be around him, and it is only now that Jonathan is surrounded by people who make him feel safe, wanted and cared for. He cannot ruin anything he has with Nancy or Steve, because now that he’s had a taste of friendship, Jonathan doesn’t think he could return to the lonely world he once knew.

So when Jonathan wakes up Friday morning by an intense tickling in his nose, causing him to convulse in his bed with three harsh sneezes against his pillow, he feels a feeling of dread rise in his stomach.

When he rises out of bed and sat up, he was greeted by a pounding, splitting headache so painful it practically sweeps him; so hard that Jonathan could have fallen back over back into bed. Then he realised he cant breathe through his nose, and despite the little hot air he is breathing out and the hot flush he feels on his cheeks, he feels frozen.

As much as his soul cries out at him to stay in bed, and as much as he feels his heart reach for the bed and cling on for life, Jonathan’s brain knew he couldn’t stay. He weakly thrusts his aching, fevered body out of the comforts of his bed and steadies himself by grabbing onto his bedside table for dear life.

It seems like an eternity before the world stopped whizzing and whirling around like he was on some acid trip of a merry go round, but all things come to an end, even oddities like this. Jonathan weakly stumbles over to his door, his vision quite tunnelled, fading in and out with each throb of his head.

He doesn’t know how he made it out into the kitchen without falling over, but he does, despite the zig zagged direction he chose to take and the shaky nature of his legs, like jelly, about to succumb to his illness any moment now.

When Jonathan makes Will’s lunch he’s sloppy. His sandwich isn’t perfectly positioned and when he cooks breakfast he shakes and the fried egg ends up an odd shape. When he pours the orange juice into the glass he spills some over, because his hand can’t stop to tremor and his entire body is racked by the freezing temperatures only he seems to notice.

What Jonathan also doesn’t notice is that Joyce has flown into the room and has immediately noticed his current state. And she is Joyce, so naturally she fusses and she beelines for the thermometer and shoves it in his mouth. Jonathan protests of course but she’s Joyce, and she doesn’t  lose.

And before he knows it he is being hoisted to bed by his feisty mother and Jonathan is defeated.

In his feverish haze time doesn’t pass quite right and he’s not quite sure what time it is but he hears a gentle knock on the door, to this rhythm so familiar it brings Jonathan back to his senses, and he knows it’s Will. He always knocked on his door with his own little rhythm since he was little, Jonathan would know it anywhere.

“Yeah, come in,” He rasped out, his voice so rough he cringed, resembling nails against a chalkboard.

His little brother tiptoed in carefully as not to further his headache or anything to upset his weakened body; he was always thoughtful like that, and Jonathan loved him for it. He was proud of him always.

“Hi Jon,” Will whispered lowly, a sweet smile spread across his lips.

“Mom told me you were sick so I brought you these,” He continued as he set down a box of tissues, the mix tape Jonathan had made for him and a R2D2 stuffed toy.

“The Artoo toy always makes me feel better so hopefully it can do the same for you,” Will said as Jonathan gave him a smile, although weak, still bright, as Will always made his day a little brighter.

“And your mixtape always makes me happy, so I’m hoping it can make you happy too,” Will grinned as he placed the tape into a player.

“You’re the best Will,” Jonathan grinned softly as he turned on his side to face him, before his face contorted and he quickly retreated into his pillow to muffle three vicious sneezes that leeched him off his remaining energy. He groaned softly.

Will frowned as he leaned in to feel his forehead, pushing the hair out of his face, “You’re not feeling great, are you?”

Jonathan chuckled weakly, his voice congested and deep, and he was sent into a brief coughing fit, turning away from him to cough into his arm. Once he recovered, he sniffled and wiped his irritated tears away, forcing a smile, “I’ve felt better.”

He leaned in to ruffle his hair and bat him playfully on the cheek, “Now go away to school, you don’t want to catch this.”

Will chuckled and hit him back, “I’m sure it’s better than listening to Mrs.Leahy drone on and on.”

Jonathan made a monstrous noise to scare him and jabbed at his stomach to tickle him, “Raaaarrrghhhh! The plagues gonna get you!”

Will giggled and ran away.

Jonathan couldn’t help the wife, bright smile that spread across his lips. That laugh could save the world. And to think just a two months ago he thought he’d never hear it again, was terrifying. Hearing it made him immediately feel just a bit together.

Jonathan doesn’t remember much but he knows he managed to drift off to a feverish sleep halfway through one of Pink Floyd’s songs, and now he’s waking up to a splitting headache and he feels like he’s burning alive but he can’t stop shaking either, and waves of blistering hot crash through him followed by a tidal wave of freezing cold leaves him curling up within himself.

He feels dreadful, and his body feels so heavy and weak and he genuinely wants to cry out because everything hurts too much. When Jonathan coughs its chesty and raspy, each cough pressing daggers into his lungs. He whimpers in pain as he tries to brave through it.

When the pain simmers down enough Jonathan becomes aware of the knocking at the door. The knocking is too much for his overstimulated brain and it’s too much for him to handle and an electrifying spark of pain causes his head to throb repeatedly. He whimpers again but somehow he pushes himself off of his bed.

When he stands a wave of nausea hits him and his vision fades into black. Jonathan feels so light and he can feel the sickeningly haunting pit in his stomach as he free falls. He pulls himself off of the ground and his legs shake and he can barely walk as he is shaking too much, and his vision is fading in and out but he grabs onto the walls to try and get there.

It’s a long and treacherous journey but he makes it, and at the end of the tunnel is a beam of light, because when he opens the door it reveals a worried looking Steve and Nancy.

He’s too shocked to reply, and his brain is way too slow to say anything so he can do is cling onto the door frame and shake. Nancy and Steve are the same and are too horrified at how awful he probably looks and shame pulsates throughout him. But Jonathan can’t dwell on it too long because he’s bursting into another harsh coughing fit that doubles him over, each cough causing his head to throb and lungs to scream in pain. He clings onto the door frame to support himself and he feels so faint and weak he can feel himself losing control.

Just before he slips from the door frame and falls, Steve is lunging in to catch him, supporting him so he can finish coughing, rubbing his back comfortingly. And when he finishes Steve slings Jonathan’s arm over his shoulder and the look Steve gives him is so kind that it melts him all over.

His eyes are so kind and so filled with care, “Hey bud, you okay there?”

Jonathan nods and sniffles, groaning as a tickle flares within his sinuses and he pushes away slightly to violently sneeze twice into his elbow.

“Bless you Jon,” Nancy says sympathetically, quickly caressing his face. “We need to get you back into bed.”

She slings his arm around her shoulder too and they get him back, gently laying him down on his bed. She tucks him into the blanket and hops onto bed with him to feel his forehead, and Jonathan can see the panic flash in her eyes.

“Steve, Steve he’s burning up!” Nancy said worriedly, trying not to sound too frantic.

“I’ll get him a cold towel,” Steve replied, trying to disguise the worry in his voice as he went off to the kitchen.

“Why are you here?” Jonathan asked feverishly, his voice weak and barely audible.

She gave him a small smile and started to play with his hair, brushing it out of his face, gazing at him sweetly, “We were looking for you. We couldn’t find you so we asked Will and he said you were sick, so we skipped class and ended up here.”

Jonathan’s eyes twinkled with adoration, his eyes watering as he felt so cared for, “You..were looking for me? You didn’t have to skip class just for me.”

Nancy looked a little taken aback, “Jon..of course we were looking for you. You’re our friend. We care about you.”

“Really?” Jonathan asked in disbelief, his voice cracking as he was unable to comprehend the fact that anyone actually cared for him bar his family. It left his heart soaring.

Steve returned with a damp towel in his hands. He climbed atop Jonathan’s bed and gently laid the towel on his forehead. He smiled softly and started to massage his temples, “God Jon, you’re really sick, huh?”

Jonathan nodded but pushed away as a sudden tickle itched at his nose, so abrupt he hadn’t had time to build up to it or warn Steve, with only time to turn his head away and aim away from them, sneezing two loud and violent sneezes that leeched him off his remaining energy.

Steve frowned and reached for a tissue and wiped at Jonathan’s nose for him, “Bless you buddy, you feeling okay?”

Nancy offered him a sympathetic smile and climbed in next to him and comfortingly leaned against him, playing with his hair.

And suddenly in that moment Jonathan is hit by the revelation that he is surrounded by two of the kindest people he has ever met. When he looks at Nancy he sees the softest, sweetest gaze looking upon him with so much care, and each stroke of her fingers against his messy hair is tender and loving. He looks over at Steve who is watching over with him ever so bravely, ever so determined to keep him safe. Jonathan has never felt this safe, so secure, so loved in his life.

It feels so good that it fills every ounce of him with sunlight and starlight and everything beautiful, and he is then hit with another revelation. A revelation that crushes him to his core; the realisation that should he lose it he doesn’t think he’ll be the same because now he would be aware of the void. And this won’t last; Jonathan knows it. It’s not possible that he’d be loved like this. No one ever has really before.

Jonathan can’t even stop himself, and his lip is wobbling and his eyes are watering and before he can even put the walls he has built with such an endeavour back up again tears are spilling from his eyes.

“Jonathan?” Nancy asked, alarmed by the sudden tears.

Jonathan aggressively tries to wipe his tears away, but new ones keep replacing the ones he’s gotten rid of, and eventually Jonathan realises that all attempts are futile, and his walls have broken down.

“Hey, what’s going on bud?” Steve asked reassuringly, taking Jonathan’s other side that Nancy isn’t already at and wrapping an arm around him.

“Its just, no ones ever done this for me besides my mom and my brother,” Jonathan hiccuped, trying to stop his sobs.

Nancy softened and pressed a soft kiss into his hair, “And we’ll do it again.”

Jonathan shook his head, “No, no you won’t.”

Steve furrowed his brow, “What do you mean?”

Jonathan sobbed and sniffled, causing him to cough harshly into his fist, “You won’t. Because I’ve built these walls around myself and hidden the parts of me I don’t like, and now they’re down you’ll see me for who I really am and you won’t like me anymore, and I’m going to be alone again.”

Jonathan loathed the silence that ensued.

“Jon..we’re not going to do that, ever,” Nancy promised, reaching for his hands and holding them in her own, eyes bright and so sure.

Steve tightened his grip around Jonathan and pressed a kiss against his temple, “You are never going to be alone again, Jon. We’re here now.”

“You won’t like what you see,” Jonathan whispered softly.

“I think it’s you who doesn’t Jonathan, not us,” Steve said gently.

“Are the walls down now, Jonathan?” Nancy asked softly.

“Yes,” He whispered with shame.

Nancy kissed his cheek softly, “I still love you.”

Steve nodded, “As do I. I think you need to start loving you too.”

It would take a while, but Steve and Nancy would be there every step of the way.

They never left his side that night, connected for the first time really.

And they would be for a long time.

[ficsandstrangerthings]

Evanesce (2)

Summary: The two of you were playing hide and seek when Benjamin disappeared. You dedicated your life to finding him.

Wednesday, November 9th, 1983.

Chapter 2

Chapter 1

Word Count: 1.6 K

Pairing: Steve Harrington X reader (Slow Burn)

A/N: I did a thing! ^^ anyways feedback and reblogs are very much appreciated. 

    It took you four times to dial 911 correctly, the tremors in your hand kept causing you to hit the wrong number. By the time you finally stilled the shaking long enough to punch in the correct digits you were sobbing from frustration. Once the operator picked up it then took several attempts to turn the sobs into coherent words. Your mother was out running errands, and your father’s work number had rung and rung only to go to his voicemail every time. After the 6th time of receiving the pre-recorded message you had slammed the phone down,  the touch tone clattering to the floor due to the force behind the action. You were alone in your terror.

    Nearly an hour had passed since you had hung up with the promise of an officer being sent over. Since then you had dug a flashlight out of the garage and used it to search the surrounding woods. Your voice had become hoarse between the mix of crying and calling out Benji’s name into the dark trees. Your dad’s 1911 pistol held firmly in your white-knuckled grip, you pushed down the fear that pooled in the pits of your stomach, doing your best not to leap out of your skin at every small noise that cut through the silence that blanketed the underbrush.

    The longer you spent trekking through the tree line the more time you had to mentally berate yourself. How could you have been so stupid? That Byers boy had just gone missing a couple of days ago and he was a few years older than Benji, what were you thinking letting him out of your sight so close to nighttime? If you were being honest with yourself you weren’t thinking; in your 17 years of life, nothing even remotely bad had happened in Hawkins until now. 

    Several of your friends would complain about how dull and quiet the town was, making plans to escape at the first chance they got but you loved its predictability. It was comfortable, safe.Until it wasn’t. When news broke about the disappearance of Will Byers a shock wave of unease was sent through the sleepy town. Several residents had bristled at the idea that there could be something sinister afoot and instead explained away his disappearance rather than face the looming possibility that their once safe town wasn’t as safe as once believed. A fresh wave of tears sprang forth at the thought. It felt like a betrayal from the home that you loved and defended.

    “(Y/N)!” Your heart leaped into your throat before sinking again almost instantly as you processed that the voice was much too deep to be Benji’s.Aiming your light back towards the house the beam fell on a uniformed man making his way towards you, his own beam of light dancing through the tree line. It wasn’t until they were almost on top of you that you were able to discern any recognizable features.

    “Chief! Chief thank god you’re here!” You breathed a sigh of relief, wiping the tears staining your cheeks with the back of your arm.

    “(Y/N) What’s going on? Flo said you called insisting Benji was taken.” His eyes flickered away from your face and you followed his gaze to the pistol still clenched in your fist. He didn’t comment on it but instead raised a brow in a silent question. The story tumbled past your lips, needing no coaxing. Every time you said it aloud it got a little easier to say, and you made sure to put extra emphasis on the strange growling you heard before Benji screamed. You studied the Chief’s face, doing your best to get a read on the emotions flickering across his features. Chief Hopper wasn’t anyone you knew personally, you had come to recognize the man around town since he had taken the position a couple of years back but this was probably the longest conversation you had ever had with him, making it that much more difficult to decipher the tired hand he dragged across his face.

   His shoulders sagged as if the weight of the world had settled upon him and with a heavy sigh, he fished a crumpled carton from his front pocket. He took his time bringing a cigarette to his lips before searching his pockets for a lighter. (E/C) eyes stared up at him anxiously as he finally located the small metal device, a small flame came to life with a flick of his wrist. Inhaling a large drag he let it out slowly before refocusing his attention on you.

    “Alright listen kid, I’ll take it from here. I want you to head back home and try your dad again. Then wait for your parents while I do some looking around O.K?”You felt your whole body sag in relief.

    “You believe me, that he isn’t just hiding or something?” Taking another heavy drag Hopper exhaled in a large cloud of smoke.

    “Two kids missing in the same week seems like an awfully big coincidence…” Glancing back down at your puffy eyes and trembling form he decided to leave out the part where only hours ago they found the body of one of the missing kids floating in the quarry just a few miles away. “Get on back to the house, call your parents.” He nodded his head towards the pistol at your side, “and make sure the safety is on.” With a nod, you moved to make your way back towards the house before pausing and turning back to the Hopper.

    “Chief?” He hummed in acknowledgment, attention already on the bush where you had found the piece of fabric from Benji’s jacket. “I was wondering…um would you mind if I bummed a smoke? My mom started counting hers and I’m already enough of a fuck up tonight…” The corners of his lips tugged into a smirk, with barely a moment’s hesitation he had retrieved the pack and held it out to you.

    “Keep it, and if your mom asks-”

    “I got them from a friend,” you took the offered box with a small smile. “Thank you, Chief.”

    “No problem and (Y/N), this wasn’t your fault.” His words were firm and left no room for argument and you nodded before turning back towards the house. You really wished you could believe him, but he was wrong. It was your fault, Benji shouldn’t have been out in the woods so close to dusk; he was missing and no matter how you looked at it, it was your fault.

    Stepping back into the house you called out to your parents, only half expecting a response. Like you thought, no was home yet and you moved deeper into your home. The contrast of your warm home compared to the cold winter night air caused your already congested sinuses to run and you set the pistol on the counter, double checking that the safety was on per Hopper’s instructions before heading to the bathroom. Grabbing a handful of tissue you blew your nose before grabbing a towel and running it under the faucet. Your face was pink and blotchy, a mix of dried tears and snot caked on your frozen cheeks from your blubbering. Once the water had warmed to a passable temperature you wrung the towel out before wiping the mess from your face, sighing at the relief of the warm cloth against your chapped skin. Once satisfied that you didn’t look like a complete mess anymore you hung the towel over the faucet before moving back to the kitchen.

   You tried to reach your dad again, only to feel a fresh wave of frustrated tears pool at the corners of your eyes, when met with the familiar recording that he was out of the office. Giving up on reaching him you began to pace the kitchen before remembering the carton Hopper had given you. Flipping the lid open you smiled down at the 3 cigarettes that were still nestled within the container. Moving through the house you grabbed your purse by the front door, fishing a lighter from its depths before stepping onto the front porch. Plopping down onto your front steps you plucked a cigarette from the box before placing it between your lips and lighting it. The nicotine blanketed your shot nerves with a familiar sense of calm and before you knew it you had already killed your first cigarette and were working on your second when familiar headlights turned onto the street.  

    The small sense of calm you had been able to achieve vanished almost instantly and you swallowed hard, hands already beginning to shake as your mother’s car drew closer. Taking one last drag you pinched out the embers before flicking the butt into the bushes off to right and moving to stand. You worried nervously at your bottom lip, arms wrapping tightly around yourself as your mind raced with how exactly you were supposed to tell your mother that you had lost your baby brother. Every step you took towards the driveway felt like you were trying to move through cement, body wanting to stay rooted where it stood. A heavy hand landed on your shoulder causing you to start, heartbeat thudding painfully in your chest as wild eyes looked up to find an apologetic smile on Hopper’s face.

    “(Y/N)!” Your mother’s panicked voice brought your attention away from the Chief’s reassuring gaze and you swallowed hard, preparing yourself for what was sure to be the hardest conversation of your short 17 years of life.

[pcyheartgirlx]

In The Bleak Midwinter [CH11]

Genre ;; Angst/Smut/Fluff/Romance

Pairing ;; Chanyeol x Reader x Seokjin

Word Count ;; 9.5k

Summary ;; “We’re all whores, we just sell different parts of ourselves.”

You own a multi-billion dollar company, servicing the biggest names in kpop, in more ways than one. Under the name “Starlight Catering”, you, your best friends, Damon and Maya, and your hundreds of workers provide stress relief for idols.

You have partially retired, not because you didn’t want to, but because Chanyeol was your muse. He was all that you had time for and all you needed. Until Jin came along.

So what happens when you mix fire and ice?

You get smoke and all the lines are blurred.

A/N ;; The aftermath of Chapter 10. Well at least from one side. This is kind of a Jin chapter and I didn’t even mean for it to be that way. I realized that if I wrote everything I wanted to write, this chapter would have been like 30k long. I mean, does that bother you guys? Let me know! I’m always down for writing longer chapters if you guys will wait for me...till the end of time...get it? like in the story? Okay my jokes are lame, I’ll stop rambling and let y’all get to reading <3

[PLAYLIST] [BACKSTORY] [PROLOGUE] [CH1] [CH2] [CH3] [CH4] [CH5] [CH6] [CH7] [CH8] [CH9] [CH10] [CH11] [CH12]

‘No arms or legs is basically how you live right now, Kevin. You don’t do anything.”

A loud pair of laughter followed Michael Scott’s line. You and Damon couldn’t stop cackling when Kevin gave him the saddest reaction.

“I fucking love this show,” you belted out, wiping the tears from your eyes. “The Office can literally make anything better.”

“Aw so you’re feeling better?” Damon said as he laid on his stomach to face you. The two of you were laying on your bed, using your laptop to watch The Office. You shrugged and pushed the used tissue that was on your keyboard to pause the show.

“I mean a little bit, I think it’s just cuz I’m feeling sleepy,” you replied as you took another spoonful of ice cream in your mouth. Damon opened his mouth, signalling him for you to give him a bite.

“I mean,” he said swallowing the ice cream you fed him. “Do you still feel like your heart is coming out of your chest?”

“No.”

“And you’ve stopped crying, no?”

“I guess.”

“Well alright, step one is done!” He closed the laptop and put it on your nightstand. “You can’t expect everything to go away now, (Y/N).”

“No I know. I just...can’t believe I fucked up this much,” Your head started to hang low as you thought about the events that unfolded that night. The way Jin looked at you as he said “Don’t touch me”. Then the words that cut into you the minute they flew out of Chanyeol’s mouth. “I’m not going to pay you anymore, (Y/N).” Even though you already answered this question a million times you couldn’t help but wonder.

Where did I go wrong? What exact moment?

The minute you let your heart make decisions for you, dumbass.

“You’re right. But it already happened. And maybe it needed to happen,” Damon pulled covers over him and got comfortable. “Either way, we’re going to get through this.” You eyed him as he turned over and yawned.

“Are you...sleeping in here tonight?” You asked quizically.

“Don’t act like you don’t want me here. I’m your best friend and I know that when you’re upset you hate sleeping alon--”

“You don’t feel like getting up do you?”

“Nope.” You rolled your eyes at him and started to collect the tissues and empty ice cream cartons that littered the bed.

“You know, I say it all the time but Damon, I’m really happy you’re my best friend. I don’t think anyone can do as good of a job dealing with me like you,” He turned to you as you threw the trash away.

“I know,” he pipped, smiling at you sweetly. You laughed and smacked him on the ass before you got comfortable next to him.

“Goodnight, Damon.” you said, snuggling into your pillow.

“Goodnight, puta.”

x-x-x

Your phone went off for what seemed like the 5th time. There was no way you were moving, either. Figuring it was Ronnie calling so you could give him the final rundown of the numbers, you kept sleeping hoping he would get the hint.

“Pick it upppppp!” Damon yelled groggily. You turned to him and elbowed him.

“Why are you yelling?”

“Because your phone has been ringing for like an hour, pick it up! I’m trying to sleeeeep,” Damon whined, putting a pillow over his face. You groaned and reached for your phone on the nightstand next to you. Not even looking, you picked it up.

“Star--”

“(Y/N) WHAT THE FUCK!” Maya’s shrill screech pierced your eardrums. Pulling the phone away from your ear for a second, you brought it back to your face as you cringed.

“Why the fuck are you yelling for?”

“Because you’re an imbecile,” Damon chimed.

“Shut up!”

“I didn’t even say anything!” Maya defended.

“Not you! Damon!” You groaned. Accepting that you weren’t going to get back to sleep now, you sat up and rubbed your eyes. “What’s up though? Why are you blowing up my phone?”

“(Y/N)...I’m...kind of stuck,” she grimaced painfully. You sighed as you pulled the covers off you.

“Did you slip in the shower and throw your back out again?”

“NO!” She screeched once more, bringing the phone away from you again. “I’m...well...what happened is…”

“Out with it, Maya!”

“Okay!...I’m um...not home,” Your eyes widened at her statement.

“You’re not...h--Where the fuck are you?!” Damon turned to you and glared at you as you screamed into the phone.

“Don’t be mad at her!” You heard Jimin’s voice in your ear. “It was our fault! We let her nap after...uhh…”

“You can say it, Jiminie. It’s not like she doesn’t know what we did last night,” Maya purred. You could almost feel Jimin blushing through the phone.

“Wait a minute, Am I on speaker?!”

“It was Maya’s idea, Y/N,” Yoongi interjected. A sigh escaped your lips as you threw your hand up in frustration.

“That’s great. Really, Maya. I--” you stopped yourself before you could continue. As much as you wanted rip Maya a new one, cursing and yelling while Jimin and Yoongi were listening wasn’t exactly a good look for you or your business. Especially after the events from yesterday, you wanted to keep your image. “I’m disappointed. But not mad.”

“See!” Jimin chuckled. “I knew she was reasonable. (Y/N) is so sweet.”

“I wouldn’t say all of that now,” Maya responded flatly.

“Anyway,” Yoongi interrupted once again. “I sincerely apologize, (Y/N). Really, we fucked up big time. But can you give us a hand? I’m not sure how we can get her out of here without anyone seeing her.” Rubbing your temples, you started thinking of a plan.

“Let me speak to Namjoon. I’m sure he can help me come up with a plan,” There was a silence after your words, but you could hear a faint lull of whispers. “Hello? I know you’re there.”

“You see, (Y/N), Namjoon isn’t here. And we kinda want to keep this between us for now...just so he doesn’t um…”

“This is dangerous territory,” you warned Yoongi. “I at least think we should have Jin help. He might know what to do.” Saying his name was difficult. As much as you didn’t want this to be the way you crossed paths with him after last night, you knew that he would be able to keep the boys calm and devise a plan that would keep this under wraps from the leader.

“Hyung is sleeping. He was up late last night…” Yoongi said cooly, guilt creeping up the pit of your stomach.

“Ah, I see. Well, don’t worry. I’ll think of something. Just give me a few minutes and I’ll call you back,” you lifted yourself up from you bed and started toward your closet.

“Thank you so much, (Y/N)! You really are the best!” Jimin gushed.

“We owe you one,” Yoongi followed.

“(Y/N)...”

“Maya,” you said sternly. “We’ll talk later.”

“Fineeee,” She groaned, hearing the sound of the call ending right after. You threw your phone on the bed, accidentally hitting Damon with it as he tried to sleep.

“Fuck you, hoe!” he cried out as he writhed under the sheets.

“I’m going to kill that girl,” you snarled as you pulled out a pair of True Religion jeans. “How am I going to get her out of there? Is she nuts?! It’s practically almost noon! There are people everywhere!” Damon yawned and turned over.

“I have a plan,” he mumbled as he stretched. “Call Goyangi Catering and place an order for pick up, get some pastries or sandwiches, something easy and quick for them to make. Then ask them for a uniform, put it on and “deliver” it to them.” You blinked your eyes at him in amazement.

“That’s fucking fantastic but how do I get her out?”

“Easy,” he snuggled back into the bed facing you. “Tell her to go out back while you come out the front. Attention will still be on you!” he made a motion with his hand as if he had a pen and paper handy. “Delivery girl, was it BTS? What does their dorm look like? Are they recording? What do their pajamas look like? Can you tell us anything at all?” Bringing the covers up to his neck, he shrugged and made a face of accomplishment. You shook your head almost in agreement. Granted it was risky, there could always be someone waiting in the back. But if there was anyone in the front, crazed fans or press, they would see you go in and come out, taking any suspicion away from Maya. It wasn’t the best plan, but it was the only plan.

“I guess that’s what we’re gonna do,” you agreed, plopping on the bed looking through your contacts. A smile crept up your face as you found Goyangi catering. “Wait…” you stopped suddenly and turned to Damon. “How did you come up with that so fast?” He scoffed at you and rolled his eyes.

“See, Unlike you bitches, I ain’t messy. First of all, this would never happen to me. I’m responsible,” you laughed out loud as he playfully smacked you. “Second, if it did, there’s no way I’m going unprepared for the worst. I got a back up plan for my back up plan.” He snapped in your face causing you to lean back a bit. At this point, you had no time for his sass. You pressed the screen and brought the phone up to you ear.

“Goyangi Catering? Yes it’s me! Great job last night...the food was fantasic! The focal point of discussion throughout the whole night, I heard! No...no actually I called to place an order...Yes, I’ll hold…” you looked over at Damon and pointed at him. “This better work!”

“It will! It will!” he reassured. You shot him a doubtful look as you waited on the line patiently.

x-x-x

You pulled up to the nearest parking spot by their dorm. Gripping at your steering wheel, you looked over to their dorm that was down the street, studying the people outside. It didn’t seem too crazy. A sasaeng walked by acting as if they were a pedestrian, knowing damn well they were waiting for a glimpse at one of the idols, and a few reporters chatted amongst themselves, exchanging notes. You figured they were waiting for Namjoon to get back, and ask him about his whereabouts today. Sighing to yourself, you gazed over at the box next to you.

“I really want one of these pastries, Damon.”

“Bitch, get your life together. How’s it looking out there?” his voice filling the car as it came through the speakers.

“One crazy, 3 reporters.”

“Not too bad,” he spoke into the car radio. “Don’t be nervous. Those people can smell it like fucking dogs.”

“I believe it,” you pursed your lips as you examined them a little more.

“How does the uniform look on you?” Damon sniggered. You glared at his name on the display screen.

“Go fuck yourself, I look like a bum.” You looked down at the plain white t-shirt that was 2 sizes too big. The Goynagi Catering company logo was obnoxiously adorned on the front.

“Well I’m sorry delivery girls don’t go around dropping pastries off in Versace dresses.”

“Fuck off, Damon,” you spat as you grabbed the box. “Alright I’m going to get out there and get this shit over with. See you soon.”

“Byeeee,” he chimed, using your free hand the press the call end button on the steering wheel. Taking a deep breath in, you pulled the keys out of the ignition and walked out of the car with your box of pastries at hand. The minute you approached the dorm, reported fled to your side as you began walking in.

“Are these for BTS?” one asked immediately. You just shrugged as you approached the door.

“Who are they from?” a second one asked, pushing the first reporter to the side. Again, you shrugged at them as you walked into the building. They said a few choice words about your manners before you walked away from them. Fucking vultures, you thought to yourself as you got to the front desk. Usually at night, you were in different attire so the concierge didn’t recognize you. Either that or it was so late, he wasn’t even there. It was better that way. If he did recognize you, he could mention to Namjoon that you had visited the dorm while he was away, causing problems for the other members as he questioned your appearance there.

“Good afternoon! I have a delivery for Bangtan Soeyondan on the 3rd floor,” the man scribbled something in his notepad before he reached for the box.

“Namjoon-ssi isn’t here and their manager didn’t mention anything to me about a delivery so I’ll just take these and he can take it up when he arrives,” he replied. Fuck, you thought to yourself. I have to get up there.

“Sir, this order was made by Yoongi actually. Surely you can let me up just to drop these off. He’s not feeling well. Last night, the poor thing pulled his...hamstring...yea his hamstring during their performance,” you lied, hopefully the concierge bought it. Slowly, his eyebrows furrowed and a look of pity played on his face.

“They work so hard too…” he looked around and sighed. “Alright, I could get into a lot of trouble for this but go ahead and bring it up.” You smiled sweetly at him and took the box in your hands again.

“That’s really kind of you. Don’t worry, we’ll keep this our little secret,” you winked. The man blushed and nodded as you walked away.

“Hey, I believe I know you from somewhere,” he called out to you as you waited for the elevator. Fuck, I almost got it, you cried internally. You looked to him and shrugged.

“You know I get that all the time! I must have a distinguishable face, right?” you laughed nervously as the elevator chimed, the doors opening at the perfect time. “Well thank you again have a good day!” You said in one breath as you rushed inside, pressing the button for the 3rd floor violently.

That was so fucking close, oh my god.

Usually when you walked down this hall, the sound of your heels clicking accompanied you. Today you were left in silence with your own thoughts. Your palms began to sweat with every step you took. It wasn’t the situation that gave you anxiety, it was the possibility of seeing Jin. You didn’t know what you were going to say to him if you did see him. Planning that out probably should have been included in this strategy. Instinctually, you only scrambled a solution for what seemed more important. Protecting your business. Shaking yourself out of your thoughts, you knocked on their door and waited for a response. It wasn’t long before Taehyung opened the door and appeared in the doorway.

“(Y/N)...you look…”

“Don’t even start--”

“Cute!” he doted.

“What?”

“You look so normal! Come in, come in! Oh and let me take that for you,” he said excitedly as he pulled you inside with one arm and grabbing the box with the other. You were taken aback by his kindness. He was always a sweet kid but after last night and the way he looked at you nervously, you weren’t exactly sure what you were expecting. But this was the opposite...not that it was a bad thing.

“I brought pastries!” You chimed sweetly as you both got into the kitchen. “I hope you guys like them.” He put the box down on the counter and opened them, his eyes twinkling at the sight.

“These are for all of us?” he asked innocently.

“Yes of course! Dig in, Tae,” he smiled at you as he grabbed a pastry and stuffed it in his mouth. It was hard not to giggle as he chewed, his eyes squinted in satisfaction. You walked toward him slowly and sighed.

“Hey, Tae. I just wanted to apologize for any inconvenience I may have caused for your group last night. I really hope that doesn’t affect the way you guys think about me or anything. I truly fell in love with you guys. You’re one of the sweetest group of young men I ever had the pleasure of meeting and I want to...stay friends with you.” Tae put his pastry down and turned to you. Your words made his cock his head at you and frown.

“It’s okay, (Y/N). I’ll admit, last night was pretty shitty but you’ve been nothing but nice to us. What ever happens with you and Jin, that doesn’t effect our friendship. Not unless you hurt him purposefully anyway. But I know you wouldn’t do that,” he picked up the pastry once again and leaned on the counter. “Plus, if I stop being your friend, I don’t get the benefits of free food every once and a while.” The both of you laughed as he took a bite.

“(Y/N)! You’re here! Finally!” Jimin said in relief as he walked in. The expression in his face changed to one of curiosity as he peered at the box on the counter. “Are those pastries? Tae, you have powder on your face. Those are pastries!” he ran excitedly toward the box and marveled at them just as Tae did previously. Another giggle escaped your lips as you walked up to the both of them, handing Tae a napkin to clean the powder on his face.

“Yes, pastries are great and all but…” you put a hand on his shoulder and gripped it tightly, digging your nails into his skin. A smile crept on your face as you watched him writhe in pain. “Where’s Maya?”

“AISH! (Y/N) WHAT IS THIS?”

“This is how I show love when I’m angry,” you cocked your head at him and kept your face kind and sweet as you let him go. He rubbed his shoulder and looked at you in confusion.

“I thought you were reasonable!” he cried. Taehyung chuckled in the background as he took the pastry Jimin was about to take.

“I am reasonable. I’m not telling Namjoon about this little fuck up and you’re still alive aren’t you?” His eyes widened as he nodded. “Well, let’s get to it then. Where is she?”

“In the bathroom,” you heard Yoongi from behind you. “She’s hungover and…” Suddenly, the sound of gagging and coughing echoed through the hallway. “Yea...so that’s happening.” A look of embarrassment and horror crept up your face.

“I’m so sorry about that. She usually doesn’t...well she does...but,” Yoongi chuckled at your expense and shook his head.

“Don’t be. We had a lot of fun last night. Right, Jimin?” Jimin blushed at Yoongi’s statement and he nodded shyly in agreement.

“Jiminahhh! Don’t be so shy now!” Tae teased. “You were the one giggling and moaning the loudest. Maya knows her name. I don’t think you had to remind her every 3 seconds.” Jimin’s mouth dropped at him, his face getting a deeper shade of red.

“Hey Tae,” Yoongi chimed softly. “Didn’t I hear a small, little moan a few night ago coming from Jungkookah’s room? It sounded a lot like your voice…” The color in Tae’s face drained as he looked at Yoongi with terror.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” he said defensively as he grabbed another pastry. “I just remembered, I have...something to do.Thank you for the food, (Y/N). You’re the best!” He ran out of the kitchen and back into his room. Jimin shook his head and laughed.

“You didn’t have to do that, hyung. That was mean.” Yoongi shrugged at Jimin and looked to the side.

“He’ll be fine. We all know anyway. I don’t know why they try and hide--”

“And I don’t think I should be hearing this conversation!” You interjected, putting your hands up to your ear. “I’ll be...uh...helping Maya out.”

“Oh, (Y/N)! Come on! You can’t possibly tell me you didn’t know either,” Jimin cried out to you. You shrugged as you walked away.

“Hey, I don’t know who or what you’re talking about.” They both looked at you with annoyance as you darted toward the bathroom. Of course you knew about Tae and Kookie. It was painfully obvious. But you dealt this situation before with Kyungsoo and Jongin. When they are ready, the two of them will come foward to their members about their...relationship. But for now, you thought it was best to let the two men explore each other and be sure of what they had. Even if Tae’s comment to Jimin was rather funny, you knew your place in this situation.

“Maya?” you said sweetly into the bathroom door. “Are you okay?”

“Fuck off, you wank! I know you’re just being nice because we’re here. You’re going to kill me when I get out of here!” she said sloppily through the door. You sighed as you put a hand up to the door.

“Yes, you may be right. But you’re kind of throwing up and I don’t think this is the right time to kill you...I don’t want to get puke on me.”

“Very funny, bitch...hold on,” her thought was cut off by her gag reflex and the sound of her throwing up echoed in the bathroom and down the hall.

“Ew, gross,” you said to yourself as you backed away. The sound of a door down the hall clicking open caught your attention causing you turned your head to the sound.

“Honestly! Who is making all that noise!? I’m trying to fuckin--” Jin’s stopped as he saw you. He was about to walk down toward you before he noticed your presence in the hallway making him to stop in his tracks. Your heart raced at the sight of him. Just seeing him in his PJs, his hair tousled every which way and his face still slightly puffed from his slumber. The blood was rushing to your face, causing you to blush at how enchanting he looked.

“Jin…” you said breathlessly as you turned to him. He licked his lips and turned back around, heading to his room. “Wait!” you called to him, trailing behind him. “Can we talk? Please?” Without saying a word, he closed his room door leaving you outside. “Jin...I’m..I’m sorry. I just want to talk...just give me 5 minutes?” He said nothing. “Okay 2?” you chuckled. Still not receiving a response, you leaned up against the door and sighed. “Alright, I get it. I’ll just...go.” You pushed yourself up and walked back to the bathroom, knocking at the door impatiently. All you wanted to do was get out of there at this point.

“Maya!” she responded with a grunt.

“That was painful to hear,” you heard Hobi say from down the hall. You looked over to him and smiled.

“Hey Hobi! I’m sorry if this...noise is interrupting anything or bothering you,” you said to him apologetically as he raised his eyebrows reluctantly.

“Oh no. That’s not what I’m talking about. I’m talking about,” he raised a finger, pointing to Jin’s door and you. “That.” You frowned at him and rubbed your arm.

“Oh,” you said awkwardly. “Yea...it’s...yea.” There weren’t any words you could think of to respond to that. Hobi noticed the trouble you were going through and walked toward you.

“I know, Jin. He’s just mad right now. He said it himself last night, more than likely he’s going to call you later,” he put an hand to your shoulder reassuringly. Your eyes brightened at the thought of Jin talking about you last night. Whether it was good or bad, you needed to know because it was obvious he wasn’t going to tell you now. Curiosity taking over you, you decided to inquiry more about it.

“He said that?” Hobi nodded. “What...what else did he say?” You asked frantically. He cocked his head to the side and inhaled sharply.

“Well, I don’t want to tell you too much without him getting upset but he did tell us not to be mean to you. That it wasn’t your fault. It’s just a shitty situation he put himself in. But we weren’t going to be mean to you anyway!” he said quickly. “Don’t worry, (Y/N). I know you care about him. Even if it doesn’t seem like it to him now. Honestly, I doubted you. But when I saw his present, I knew I was wrong…” Nodding at his words, you smiled sweetly at him.

“Thank you, Hobi. It means a lot…” He pulled you into a hug, taking you back a bit as you hugged him back. “Hey wait a minute! You doubted me?”

“Welp, I heard there were pastries in the kitchen,” he quipped as he pulled away avoiding your question. He started rubbing his hands together and licking his lips excitedly. “So I’m going to grab some of them and you can have fun with,” he motioned toward the door and made a face of disgust. “That.” You chuckled at him as he walked away, leaving you to deal with Maya.

After a few more tries, Maya gathered herself together and slumped out of the bathroom. If you didn’t want to kill her before, you certainly wanted to kill her then. Instead, you gathered her things and reminded her of the plan. Yoongi and Jimin described to you two where the back exit was. You suggested to have her meet you a block away so you were able to pick her up in a low key location. Yoongi looked at you and nodded.

“You’re real slick, (Y/N),” he said in amazement. Maya put an arm around you and pulled you close to her.

“I’m told you guys. This is the definition of a boss bitch,” you shook your head at Maya as she spoke.

“Yea, yea. Can we get back to this please?”

“Hey (Y/N),” Jimin looked over you. “You never told me if you ever killed anyone.”

“Can you let that go?” Yoongi snarled. You and Maya just laughed and proceeded to go over the plan one more time.

“We ready?” you asked as you put your sneakers on. Maya nodded and flattened her dress.

“Let’s do this,” she nodded.

“Alright, say bye to your...men,” you said weirdly as she walked over to Yoongi and Jimin, planting both of them a soft kiss on the lips exchanging their goodbyes. You sighed and looked away, getting lost in your own thoughts, your own jealousy.

x-x-x

“Fuck yes! We did it!” Maya cheered as you two walked into the apartment. You trailed behind her and followed it into the kitchen.

“Yea, we did,” you exhaled as you plopped on the stool by the marble island. She opened the fridge and pulled out a bowl of fruit, placing it on the island.

“I know you’re mad,” She walked over to you and sat next to you, taking a piece of pineapple from the bowl. “So go ahead, yell at me, beat me, throw me away into a cold, wet dungeon. I’m ready for it.” She took the fruit in her mouth and backed away defensively.

“To be honest Maya, I’m exhausted and all I have in me is this; fuck you. That was irresponsible. Don’t let it happen again,” your voice was flat and unwavering. She crept back toward you and looked at you in bewilderment.

“That’s it?” she said warily. “You’re not gonna kill me?” You shook your head as you took a grape from the bowl. “Wait...oh shit sweetie, I almost forgot!” You felt her bring you into an embrace, almost knocking you out of your seat. “I heard what happened last night. They were talking about it while I was waiting in Yoongi’s room. I’m so sorry.”

“It’s fine, really. Wait...you heard them?” you said shocked, pushing her away slightly. “What did they say!?” She crossed her legs and brought a hand up to her chin.

“I don’t remember much. I just remember him telling them what Chanyeol did. And then what Hobi told you in the hall.”

“Oh,” you said defeatedly.

“But,” you turned to her, your eyes twinkling in eagerness as she continued. “He did mention going through with his original idea. Whatever that means. They all seemed to be supportive of him too. They really like us.” You cocked your head in confusion as you crossed your arms. Original idea? A vibration in your back pocket took you away from your thought. You reached for it and pulled it out, examining the screen. It was a notification from your bank account, stating that a deposit had been made into your personal account. Puzzled, you open your transaction history and examined the account number and name that came from.

“Um...Maya?”

“What’s up?”

“Jin just made a deposit in my account,” she looked at you emotionless.

“Okay so?” she asked almost uninterested. You pursed your lips at her and narrowed your eyes.

“Well, he’s not due for a payment or anything. I didn’t do anything with him last night...so,” Maya interrupted you by taking your phone. “Hey!”

“Why don’t you just call him and ask him?” she began scrolling through your contacts. You snatched the phone from her swiftly, shaking your head violently.

“No! He clearly doesn’t want to talk to me right now! Maybe it was a mistake!”

“Bullshit!” She called out as she took her own phone out.

“What are you doing?” Your voice was frantic as you leaned in to look at her screen. She pulled her arm back away from you.

“As the head of accounts payable for Starlight Catering--”

“Since when?”

“Since you’re too pussy to call him and ask,” she brought the phone up to her ear. “I will.” Your eyes widened as she took another piece of fruit in her mouth.

“No! Stop it! Don’t--”

“Relax, bitch. Matter of fact,” she brought the phone down and put it on speaker. “So you can hear him too.”

“Maya stop if you don’t hang up--” you growled trying to reach for the phone as she pulled it away from you again.

“You’ll do what?” she scoffed.

“I’m gonn--”

“Yoboseyo?” Jin answered. You shot her a deadly stare as she stuck her tongue out.

“Seokjin! Hi! It’s me, Maya,” she said sweetly into the phone.

“Oh hey Maya. How are you feeling?”

“Better. Thank you for asking,” she inhaled and looked over to you. “The reason I’m calling though, is because I was looking at our financials and I see you posted up a payment into one of accounts a few moments ago.”

“I did, yes.”

“Right well, according to our records, you’re all caught up and you don’t owe us anything. What is a mistake? Because I can refund you right--”

“It wasn’t a mistake, Maya.” She shot you a look of satisfaction making you inch to the edge of your seat. You listened intently as the two spoke. “I’m assuming she’s with you right now?” His statement shocked you both a bit. Waving your hands frantically in the air, you shook her head signalling for her to deny your presence.

“Well right no--”

“And you have me on speaker right?” he cut her off. The color from her face drained as she continued.

“I--...well...you see--”

“(Y/N). 11pm. I’ll see you later tonight.” With that, he ended the call, leaving both of you stunned at what had just happened.

“I feel so stupid.”

“You know,” she started. “This wouldn’t have happened if you just called him.”

“Fuck off, Maya,” you said as you twiddle your fingers, not sure if you were terrified or excited about facing Jin tonight. He doesn’t completely hate me, you thought to yourself. A smile danced across your face at your realization.

“That boy adores you, (Y/N),” she doted at you, leaning her hand up against the counter. “He’s not going to let you go that easily.” You exhaled heavily and crossed your arms.

“That’s not the impression he gave me before,” you pouted. She sighed and put her hand on your back. “Yea...I heard that while I was barfing. But obviously, he still wants to see you. So just think of this morning as residual anger. I mean, you did go back to Chanyeol after he got punched in the face.” Bringing your hands up to your face, you groaned into your palms loudly.

“Don’t remind me!” You groaned into your hands one more time before you looked up at her and sighed.

“Remember a few weeks ago, you were jealous because Jin had called me and Yoongi hadn’t called you?”

“And because Chanyeol was your boo. Yes I remember and trust me honey, I’m not jealous anymore,” she brought her hand to your lap and smiled at you. You grilled her before continuing.

“Well...I was kinda jealous of you, Yoongi and Jimin...this morning…”  She looked at you with a confused look as you spoke. “Its just because I--...it’s...not to sound weird…”

“You want that with Chanyeol and Jin?” Maya stated simply, not expecting those words to sound as strange as they did when heard out loud.

“That’s so fuckin weird...and bad…” you groaned admittingly. “How does that even make sense?” Maya made a hphm noise as she shrugged.

“It’s actually a thing. Polyamory. But I don’t think--”

“Not. Helping.” you snarled.

“Right…” she said hesitantly as she tapped her fingernails on the counter. “Well, its hard because both of these men love you. Jimin doesn’t love me. He’s just kinky and curious. Yoongi…” she stopped and looked down. “Yoongi has a weird way of showing his emotions. I don’t know what he’s thinking half the time…”

“Does that bother you?” You asked, not minding the sudden change in topics. You didn’t want to dig deeper into your shameful fantasy and if there was one thing Maya loved more than anything, it was talking about herself.

“Sometimes. I don’t know. You know I’m a sucker for emotional sweethearts,” she gushed as her head hang low.

“What about Yixing?” She snapped her head up at you and she bit her lip.

“He left so…”

“Yea but he’s coming back…”

“But he hasn’t even spoken to me since he left!” her voice filled with sadness. You inhaled deeply and scooted closer to her. “Guys are rubbish.” You scoffed and put you arm around her.

“Yes the fuck they are.”

X-x-x

The day went by fairly quickly. You and Maya decided to get some work done a little earlier than usual, tallying up the numbers from the night before. Impressively enough it was one of your best nights yet. The both of you were left in shock. When you called Ronnie, he took a jab at you and said the night went well because you were gone for most of it. You ignored his comment and sent him his cut immediately. It was about 9:30 when you got ready to head back to the BTS dorm. You hadn’t heard from him all day, neither of them actually. It wasn’t that you didn’t want to text either of them. It’s that you physically couldn’t. Your chest would start to hurt as you typed and you just put your phone away swiftly. Doing this all day took a toll on your nerves. On top of thinking about what you wanted to say to Jin, you were surprised at how functional you actually were.

As you applied your make up, you mentally rehearsed what you thought you should say. One of the things you wanted to express was yes, you did love Chanyeol. And yes, you did love him too. Wait...what? No. No. That’s wrong. You liked him. Yea. That’s what you meant. Anyway. This is about business. Having everything you ever wanted. Along the way, you met Chanyeol and he treated you with decency. He asked if you were okay. If you ever wanted to take a break from the world, escape with him for a moment and getting lost in passion, in affection. Until that moment wasn’t enough anymore. He aches for you when your away and worries about you endlessly. He is someone who protects you, so you weren’t afraid. You found bliss. But then you met Jin, and he treats you like a queen. He’s absolutely captivated by you. He wants to find you, and explore the world with you hand in hand. He believes there’s strength in your weaknesses and vows to prove it to you. When you’re away, he prays that you are taking care of yourself and thinks about the next time he’s going to see you. You found purpose.

But I can’t say that, you thought to yourself as you applied your final spray of perfume. Letting out a deep sigh, you grabbed your purse and headed for the door.

“Guys! I’m out!” Maya poked her head out her room and waved.

“Damon’s not here but good luck baby girl!” You nodded as you walked out, disappearing behind the elevator.

X-x-x

“Right here is good?” The cab driver asked as he pulled up to the curb.

“Yes! Here’s fine. Thank you! Have a goodnight,” you sad as you got out of the cab and started walking down the street. Okay, Practice.

“Jin, I’m sorry. Don’t take it personal. I didn’t go back to him because he means more...no that sounds terrible,” you scolded yourself. You walked into their building, looked over at the empty concierge desk and made your way for the elevator.

“Jin,” you pressed the button and sighed. “You know how much you mean to me. I care about you so much and...I don’t know where I’m going with this,” The elevator dinged as you groaned. You walked in and had a sense of dejavú as you pressed the button for the 3rd floor. I don’t have much time, focus!

“Jin, Tesoro mío, there isn’t anything a good blow job can’t fix!” You said with a finger up in the air. Quickly smacking yourself after and sighing. “That was the stupidest thing you’ve ever said, (Y/N).”

There was no more time for rehearsals as you finally reached the 3rd floor. Mentally collecting yourself, you walked out into the hall. The loud clicking of your heels was a relief. Your focused on your pace, drowning out any thoughts as you made your way to their door.

Knock. Knock.

“Jungkook!” You said delightfully as he opened the door. Looking at him strangely, he made his way into the hall and close the door behind him. “What are you doing?”

“(Y/N) I just wanna thank you for helping Yoongi and Jimin this morning,” he confessed rather quickly. You just nodded, still gazing at him strangely.

“Oh, kookie it really was no problem. Any time you ever need help, even if it’s not Starlight Catering related, just know that I will always be there,” you reassured him as you put a hand on his and squeezed it lightly. He smiled at you and scratched the back of his head.

“Why are you so nice to us, (Y/N)? I mean, Jin is the only one you have to impress.”

“Oh don’t say that!” You crosses your arms and looked at him dotingly. “I was and still am a fan of BTS. You guys have done so much for the music industry and for your fans. Truly, anything I can do to give back to angels like yourselves.” Jungkook’s eyes widened at your words. He started shifting in place, shyness overtaking him.

“I wouldn’t say angels…”

“Come on, Kookie. Let’s go inside before Jin starts yelling,” you giggled as you both walked in.

“Hyung is actually in the shower. He told us to let you into his room so you could wait there. Or you can come with us in the Big Room while we play with our dogs! Jin won’t like that very much because he swears we take you away from him,” he laughed as you two walked down the hall and stopped in front of his room door.

“As much as I would love to hang out with you guys, I think me and Jin need to talk,” you tapped your two pointers together and slouched a bit.

“Oh yea…last night…” you nodded at his statement. He sighed and shrugged. “Don’t even worry about all that. He’ll get over it. But I’ll see you later, (Y/N). You’re welcome here anytime.”

“Thanks, Kookie. It means a lot,” you snickered as you walked into Jins room, thinking to yourself, that boy is going to be trouble when he gets to Jin’s age.

You closed your eyes and inhaled as you stood in his room, taking in his scent. The mix of the freshness in his cologne and the sweetness in his natural scent was intoxicating and distinct. When your eyes fluttered open, you scanned the room, your (e/c) orbs darting everywhere but stopping in one place in particular.

You saw the gift you had bought him on his desk. The glass casing was off to the side and there was a screwdriver next to it. Curiosity getting the best of you, you walked over and decided to examine it. There wasn’t anything that could have prepared you for what you discovered. There was an addition made to the gift. Next to the iridescent Mario was a Princess Peach to match it, screwed in tightly next to him. There wasn’t a possible explanation for this. You don’t remember the package coming with Peach. You even swore that the picture advertising the figure didn’t have a Peach either. Your fingers slowly made their way toward the two figures. Just as you were about to graze the rainbow opal, a voice from behind you startled the life out of you.

“I bet you’re wondering where I got that piece, aren’t you?”

You turned to him and your mouth slightly dropped. Jin stood there, his upper bare body glistened, droplets of water still trailing down his torso. The towel around his waist barely hung at his hips. You stared at his narrow waist then up his defined chest and broad shoulders. Even though his cheeks were slightly pink, his skin was radiant and almost blinding. The way his dark hair clung onto his forehead seemed to bother him, so he ran his fingers through them, revealing those deep dark eyes that fixated in your direction. You wanted to speak, but it took almost all the energy in you to say anything.

“I didn’t even know she was supposed to be there...it looked…”

“Complete?” Jin cut you off as he walked toward you. “I admit, it looked great the way it came, jagi. But I just had to.” He stared at Rainbow Road for a minute, noting the amazement that glossed over his eyes as he studied it. It brought you a sense of closure almost. He loved the present. At least you did one thing right.

“Where did you get her in such a short time?” you asked as you bent down to look at Princess Peach. “I mean, You only had it for like a few hours, Jin.”

“Oh, I’ve had her for a while now. In fact, I was almost convinced I would never have the whole thing,” he said admittingly, looking over at the glass casing that was sitting on the desk.

“Are you serious? Nah, you’re pulling my leg. There’s no way…” you stood up straight and backed away.

“(Y/N), remember when I told you everything in life has meaning?” He turned to you and adjusted his towel. The nerve of him.

“Yes, I do,” you croaked, trying not to stare too much. He chuckled as he noticed and you started blushed.

“Well, I think there was some meaning behind this. Even if it’s not intentional,” You cocked your head at him. Not sure exactly what he meant. He chuckled again, causing a warm burst to travel up your core at the sound. “To put it simply, we were meant to find each other...at least that’s what I think…” When his voice trailed off, you took that as initiative to approach him. To be honest, you didn’t know where this sudden act of bravery came from but the way Seokjin looked in a towel was magnetizing.

“Even after last night, you believe that?” Your voice was soft and timid. It was a question you were scared to ask. Truthfully, you didn’t want to know the answer. You just wanted to stay in this moment. Replay it over again and hear those words again. But he took you away from that as you felt his hand cup your cheek, forcing you to stare into those deep dark eyes that you had admired from a far before.

“Especially after last night,” he breathed into you. Blinking a few times to make sure this was really happening, you tried to lean in to your lips would meet his but he stopped you.

“Let me get dressed,” he smiled as he walked away to his closet. The sudden lack of his warm skin against yours almost froze you over where you stood. But instead, you walked behind him as he approached his closet. Jin was infectious that night. The minute he touched you, it was like you gained a hunger you’ve never felt before. It was insatiable and the only thing you to calm it was the taste of his flesh. Tonight, you didn’t want Jin. You didn’t crave him. You needed him.

You started at his shoulders, trailing kisses everywhere in the space between them. He exhaled slowly, letting his head fall back slightly as he clung to a piece of clothing in his closet for support.

“(Y/N), you’re making this...ahhh,” he couldn’t finish his sentence as you moved your tongue along the crook of his neck up to his ear. Your hands roamed the front of his body as you held him close to you.

“Jin,” you whispered in his ear, your hands stopped at the towel.

“Hmm?” he said, biting his lower lip as you grabbed at the fabric around his waist.

“Do you still want me?” you purred into his ear as you stuck your fingers in through his towel, running them along the skin at his hip. Jin grabbed your wrist and removed your hand. He turned around so that he was now facing you.

“(Y/N),” he groaned as you felt his hands run down your back, cupping your bottom so he could pull you into him. “Want isn’t even the word.”

His hands traveled down your thigh as he pulled your dress over your hips. The space between you disappeared as your lips collided against each other, overlapping each other glacially. You moaned into him as you felt his hand slide down the bare skin on the back of your thighs. His other hand mirrored the action and suddenly, you couldn’t feel the ground beneath you. He picked you up and threw your legs around him. You cupped his face with one hand and with your free arm, you held on to him for support. The sound of both of you moaning and panting filled the room as he carried you over to his computer chair.

As he plopped down, you adjusted your self, straddling him while your other hand cupped his other cheek. His hands fell down to your bottom again, gripping onto you as you continued to taste each other. Your tongues danced together, lapping feverishly against each other. Jin pushed your dress up your stomach, past your breast slowly as he ghosted his hands over them. You pulled away for a second so he could successfully extract the dress off you but continued that minute he glimpsed at the way you looked in your undergarments.

“It’s been...so long,” you said amidst the messy kisses. “I can...I can’t wait.” He chuckled at you as his mouth moved from your lips to the space in between your breast. Jin started kissing and licking against your skin as his hands reach around you and started undoing the clasps of your bra. You wrapped your arms around his shoulders, letting your hand run through the hair behind his head as he devoured you. When he successfully undid your bra, he slid the straps down your arms and discarded it across the room. Jin’s hands cupped at your breasts and he brought them down to him. Pushing them together, he looked up at you as he ran his tongue over your nipple, swirling around it lightly before darting to your other nipple. His tongue working on that nipple before darting back to the other. Then back again. The sensation of him alternating back and forth quickly caused your heat to throb. He did this slowly at first, loving the way you rocked your hips against him. You could feel his erection through the fabric of the towel, wanting to rip it off him and feel that member inside you.

His motions became faster, sucking and licking at both your breasts in intervals. At first you were panting and moaning softly at his touch, but as he bite at you softly, you let out a small whimper that put him over the edge. He pulled the towel off him from under you and he placed two fingers against your heat, feeling the juices that soaked through your panties.

“Do I make you this wet, (Y/N)?” he growled as he pushed the fabric aside, running a finger against your entrance. You groaned needily and collapsed on him, your head resting on his as you held him tightly to you. “You don’t want to wait?” he whispered into your ear.

“I can’t wait,” you whined as he teased you, moving his thumb against your clit. “I need you, Jin. I need you so bad.” And those words were true because you couldn’t wait. Your hand coasted down between  you two. Without haste, you grabbed his cock pushed his hand aside as you brought it to your entrance.

“Look it how wet you made me,” you cooed as you started to pump him slowly, rubbing the tip of his cock along your soaked essence. He twitched underneath you and mumbled a few curses under his breath. Jin’s hands traveled back to your bottom but this time he grabbed at it firmly, as if trying to hold himself up. “Do you really want to, tesoro?” he whimpered as you teased him, picking up the pace in your wrist. “You want to fuck me?”

“No,” he grunted, grabbing your hand away from his length as he jerked his hips forward. He slipped inside you aggressively, stretching you out without warning. You threw yourself forward into him, moaning loudly into his shoulder. At first, he was guiding your hips slowly. The pain of his member piercing inside you was being dulled down by pleasure. You shifted on him and directed his head against your spot.

“Jin...you’re fucking me now aren’t you?” your voice was shaky as you found your rhythm and started grinding against him. His lips parted and his head rolled back as you rolled into him. Jin ignored your question as he got lost in you. Your breast moving and bouncing as you rode him, the way your hair brushed against his face. You could feel him throbbing inside you lightly. He was close, but he was holding back. You started tantalizing him, bouncing on him instead. The way your womanhood suctioned around him as your body eased in and out of him caused him to grip at your waist, pushing you up and down him a little bit faster.

“(Y/N)...” he husked as you tightened your walls around him. “I can’t fuck you…” your eyes met and locked before he spoke again. “Because...uhhh...you aren’t,” his cock slammed into your spot again, causing you to moan loudly. You felt his length twitch inside you again at the sound. “You aren’t a fuck...I lov-ahhh fuck…” The walls of your womanhood started to tighten unwillingly around him. You bounced on his cock faster and with more force, constantly crashing against your spot. Instantaneously, he started to bring his hips up and push himself into you.

“Come with me, jagi...come with me,” he begged breathlessly as he brought you down to him, embracing you as you bounced your bottom up and down. Your fingernails dug into his back as you felt pure euphoria blast through your whole body, setting all your nerve receptors on fire.

“Jin,” you chanted over and over again as you gushed all over his thighs. He grunted lowly as your muscles twitched against him, bringing him to his climax. A loud moan escaped his lips as he shot his load inside you. His body quivering and shaking underneath you as you rode out his and your orgasm.

The both of you sat there for a minute, panting heavily and sighing loudly. Jin’s hands rested at your bottom and he leaned his head against your arm. His lips brushed against your inner bicep and he kissed the spot repeatedly as you regained your breath.

“Jagi,” Finally breaking the silence, he ran his hands up and down your back lightly. “I’m sorry.” Taken aback by his words, you sat back and looked at him quizzically.

“Sorry? For what?” you uttered breathlessly. He brought his hands up to your hips and looked at you with sincerity.

“For creating a scene yesterday, putting you in an awkward position. I should have walked away earlier. There are things I shouldn’t have said to him. Not because they aren’t true but because they caused everything to escalate. This whole thing should have been settled more maturely...and for that I’m sorry.” As he spoke, you couldn’t help but furrow your eyebrows and run a hand through his hair.

“I see,” you raked your fingers through his hair again, loving the way his wet locks felt against your palms and between your fingers. “Well apology not accepted. You have nothing to apologize for, Jin. I think if I was in your position, I would have handled things similarly or...stupidly,” he cocked his head to the side and pursed his lips as you spoke. His eyes threatening to close as you continued to comb through his hair. “You handled everything better than anyone else probably would. I mean, you’re here with me now. Who would want to see me after last night?” Jin sighed and grabbed the hand that was working into his hair. He brought it down to his mouth and kissed your wrist lightly.

“You might be right. But I can only speak for myself. And I’m not proud of how I acted. Chanyeol shouldn’t be either but I digress,” his face scrunched up as he uttered his name.

“So you’re not mad at me?” you asked timidly. He raised an eyebrow and kissed your wrist again.

“No, I wouldn't say I’m not mad. I’m just coping with it,” he let out a sigh and grabbed your other hand before he continued. “When I met you, I knew what pretenses they were under. What you were about. The things you wouldn’t tolerate…” he licked his lips and looked at you tenderly. “Your fear of falling in love...and that’s all okay. It’s fine. Ultimately, it’s my fault for making it out to be more than what it was and making it about love.”

“Jin,” you stopped him abruptly. “Making what about love? What are you saying?” He blinked at your several times, you saw his adam's apple bob up and down as he swallowed hard.

“Right…” he sighed and bit his lip, putting his arms around your waist bringing you closer to him. “Jagi, there was something I wanted to tell you yesterday, do you remember?” You shook your head at him, nervously.

“Yes, I do.” For a second, he stopped breathing and his hands trembled against your hips. He looked down momentarily, as if trying to find the words to say in between your naked bodies but then he looked up at you. The silence was giving you anxiety.

“(Y/N)...” he brought a hand up to your cheek and looked deeply into your eyes.

“I...I love you.”

A/N ;; Guy pleaseeee don’t forget to check out the playlist. It definitely sets the mood for this story. Even if you listen to the first 4 songs on the list. Anyway, let me know what you guys think in my inbox or on here. Stay tuned! <3 Thank you for reading you beautiful person you.

[springdayismyaesthetic]

Soulmate AU drabble Taehyung: Part 2

OKAY @kionsai this is for you my dude, I hope you enjoy cause I cried while writing this. 

Word Count: 1393

Kim Taehyung

Taehyung is gentle, oh so gentle with you. It feels like a dream half the time he’s around because he’s so careful and caring. His jokes are endless and his childish behavior just seems to warm you heart every time you see him. 

It had been awhile since you had gone to see your mother. Even though you visited Taehyung at his apartment you couldn’t bring yourself to go right across the hall. Even the door had held too much anxiety for you to even look at it. Her words still rang in your ears every time you stopped to think about it. Sighing, you made your way down the street towards Taehyung's apartment building. Sure your fears are still there, you didn’t want Tae to leave you, you never wanted him to leave. But it’s not like you could just stand there and tell him that. No way. Never in a million years. Nope. Taehyung was the best thing that happened to you and you didn’t want to scare him off, or come by as too clingy thanks to your past. You made your way through the building, having an inner argument with yourself as you made your way to his floor. Taehyung had asked you repeatedly if you were ever going to talk to your mother again. He asked if he should move because of how close they lived. Hearing those things made your heart swell, but you insisted that he should keep living there, dodging the whole topic of your mother. Taehyung met you at his door and pulled you inside. His warm arms enveloped you completely and you never felt more at home. A light kiss was pressed to the top of your head as he shut the door. “How was your day?” He politely asked, helping you slip the coat you wore off and hung it on a hook. “Boring.” You answered, burying your face into the blue shirt he wore. He chuckled and ran his hands up and down your back. You spent the day at his apartment, helping him make dinner and putting on your favorite movie to watch. It was getting late and you knew you should be going, but his warm embrace around your shoulders made you want to stay forever. “Tae,” you whined, “I have to get home, it’s late, my cat needs me.” His chest rumbled with a laugh and he pulled you closer, making you giggle. “You’re never leaving.” He laughs and showers your face with butterfly kisses. Together you laughed until your stomachs hurt. It was hard to doubt how much he cared for you, especially when he called a cab to take you home and even offered to ride along in the cab with you. “Taehyung, I can ride in a cab by myself.” You laughed and he simply rolled his eyes as he put his phone down. His grey hair was messy and all over the place. “I’m not allowed to worry about you?” He pouts and you shake your head, “Nope. Definitely not allowed to worry.” He kisses you goodnight as you go to leave his apartment, but your happiness is cut short when you hear a small voice behind you, “Y/N?” and that’s when you felt a pit open up in your stomach, turning around to face your mother. You bit your lip, nervous, “Hey mom.” You said, shouldering your purse over your shoulder. You could feel Taehyung behind you, a warm comforting presence. “You haven’t been around to visit.” Her voice hid a tinge of hurt and anger. “I know.” Was all you said as you zipped up your coat. “I was tired of being compared to Dad when I was the one who stayed, mom.” Her hands were wringing themselves together in front of her. “I know I shouldn’t have said that and I’m sorry, I just, Y/N, can you come in and talk to me?” Her voice was etched with worry, something was wrong. She’ll never get better, the voice in your head cooed, she’ll always see your father in you, you’ll never be good enough. “We can talk here.” It just seemed to register to her that Taehyung was not just a friend. Her expression morphed into surprise, “Is he-” You interrupted her quickly, “Yes, mom, he’s my soulmate and I really do have to get going.” You felt Taehyung shift behind you, muttering in your ear, “I’ll be right back.” and patting your shoulder before he left to into his apartment. “You know how men are Y/N, he’ll find someone better, it doesn’t matter if he’s your soulmate.” She rushed out, the words gushing from her mouth and going straight to your aching heart. “Not all men are like Dad, Taehyung is perfect.” You defended him, you will defend him until your dying breath. Your mom scoffs, standing straighter at seeing you stumble for words. “How do you know?” She laughed, “Your father left without a word Y/N, He’ll do the same to you, there’s always someone better huh? Always.” She smiled, almost coming eye to eye with you, her breathe reeking of alcohol. “You’ve been drinking.” You say quietly and walk across the hall and open her door, surprised to find it unlocked. “Go to bed.” You said and pushed her door wide open, a wine bottle rolling across the floor. “Y/N please listen to me.” She whimpered, clutching a hand to your shoulder. Across the hall Taehyung emerges from his room, a bag in hand, his coat zipped up tight, and he leans down to lock the door. “I’m hearing you mom, but that’s doesn’t mean I’ll listen.” You shrugged and felt your hands start to shake. You had never talked back to your mom, you just sat and took it. Took her anger for her. Took her pain and held onto it. Her face was angry and contorted. Her finger poked into your chest roughly. “Just wait, you’ll come crying back here, telling me I was right. Just wait Y/N.” She hissed. “You should heed my words, mother knows best, and I know that he’ll leave.” Tears threatened to spill over your cheeks as she closed the door behind her. “Let’s go.” Taehyung says and grabs your hand, leading your stunned form away. He spoke little, only asking if he could stay over, only because you were a mess. You were only able to nod to keep the tears at bay. His arm was slung over your shoulder during the cab ride, soft Christmas music played over the speakers. You looked out the window, avoiding his gaze and reaching up to wipe stray tears away. Once you actually got into your apartment is when he stood in front of you. A gentle hand on your shoulder. “What was she talking about.” He asked, concern spread across his face as tears began to tumble off your cheeks. “Don’t leave me Tae.” Was all you managed to say. He enveloped you into a tight hug and moved you towards the couch, “I’m not going anywhere okay? I promise, pinky swear even.” He says, a hint of an encouraging smile crosses his features. Sobs wracked your body as you told him what happened and explaining everything about your parents. “He didn’t want to love her, even though they were soulmates.” You finished, wiping tears and your runny nose with the sleeve of your hoodie. “It broke her, she somehow hates me for it because I look like him.” you say, finally managing to calm down after Taehyung brought a box of tissues over from your room. His gray hair hung in front of his eyes as he was deep in thought. “I’m not going to leave you Y/N,” he finally says, “I love you and I will never stop loving you.” His words made a whole new round of tears rise in your eyes. “When I met you my world got so much brighter and colorful, there is no way that I’m ever letting you get away from me.” He smiled his own tears brimming in his eyes. “I love you Y/N.” His confession makes your heart bang in your chest as he pulls you into a gentle hug. Everything will be okay with Taehyung, he’s your soulmate and he’s not going anywhere.

[honeyd99]

Why I couldn’t let you fall... Pt 2:Number

Fluff

Park Jimin X Reader

GIF not mine. All credits to the editor.

1

Y/N's Pov Our fingers were still intertwined as we walked down the street. It seemed so natural how his fingers fitted so perfectly around mine. But the main reason why I didn't let go was because it was December, and it was cold, and my hands were freezing, soooo....

On the way to the restaurant , I didn't even know where he was bringing me to. Wow very responsible of you   Y/N. Letting a person you just knew 10 minutes ago on the bridge drag you to an unknown place. What if he is dangerous?  What if he is going to kill you in a dark alleyway. What if-

"Why are you making that faces? What are you thinking about?" He says laughing.

"Oh uh. Nothing, nothing." I try to seem convinced of my own words but he continues looking at me with a spill-the-beans look."Okok. I was only wandering where were you bringing me to eat."

He nods in realisation, then responds. "Oh yeah, sorry, I seem a creep right now. Taking you where you don't know."

He looks at me, then smiles. What a cute smile he has. Omg Y/N focus! " I am bringing you to my favourite place. It's near the center of the city." He then points to the illuminated buildings ahead of us.

"How long does it take to get there. I have more important things to do this night. Like watch TV and stuff myself with popcorn and ice cream." I say pointedly.

"Ok. First eating that much ice cream and popcorn is not safe for your health. Second: why would you do that when you can spend a very nice evening and night with me?"

He brings his face close to mine so fast that I stumble back a step and I blush instantly when he puts his face near mine again. He has to bend a little to adjust his height to mine and then he is looking directly into my eyes with a smirk upon his lips. "Hmm what do you say?" He asks.

I shake my head to exit this trans state. " You are so cocky. How are you so confident that I will spend all my night with you?" I step back again but he steps near me and pushes me against the brick wall that is at my back.

"Because I know that, bridgegirl." Oh fuck I am cornered. I have no escape. I will die tonight. I knew it!  He inches his face closer to mine and I close my eyes waiting for the worst. When nothing comes I open my eyes to see him two meters away from me laughing hysterically.

"W-What h-appened? Why a-are you laughing?" I stutter.

"You were really thinking I was going to kiss you?!" He asks then bends clutching his stomach as he continues to laugh. "God. Y/N I am not a creep. I was just playing. But even if I wanted to kiss you I would never do it without your permission." He stands and continues to giggle.

" You scared me you douchebag! I was thinking the worst. And even if you wanted to kiss me that will only happen into your dreams pretty boy." I laugh.

"What if I wanted to kiss you. When would you give me the permission?" He asks with a strange glint in his eyes.

"Hmm. I normally don't kiss that much people but the ones I have kissed brought me to a date before that and gave me good food." I start thinking out loud.

" Seriously? All you think about is food. " He stares at me with an annoyed look on his face.

"Yep. My love passes through my stomach." I admit."So you will have to offer me very good food for me to kiss you at the end of the night. " I continue thinking out loud then when I notice I clamp my mouth shut with my hand.

"Hmm. So you are saying that you are spending the whole night with me? If that's what you want I will not have anything to say against it." He says confidently bringing a hand to his chin and massaging it as if he is thinking deeply.

"How about I take you to dinner. And we spend the night together. Then at the end of the night if you like me you will let me kiss you and give me your number?" He voices his genius idea.

"For the kiss I don't promise anything before eating the food but, for my number you have to work a little harder."

I smile at him and then I see his cocky posture deflate as he asks under his breath" what else now?". "My number is a little more expensive . So you will have to do better."

After a moment of silence his eyes open wide then he says" what about after dinner I treat you to some churros? That sounds great doesn't it?" He looks at me waiting for an answer.

Ok that idea is not at all bad. I am not believing I am even considering giving my number to him.  "With chocolate sauce?" My eyes glint.

"Yep" he responds.

Then he takes my hand again and resumes walking towards the centre of the city.

*skip time*

Arrived at the restaurant he pulls my seat back for me like a gentleman and then goes sitting in front of me. A waiter arrives and gives us the menu that I scan immediately and before I can speak Jimin looks at the waiter and starts talking to him.

" Seunghyun could you please bring me my usual?"

"Yes sir." Seunghyun the waiter responds. Then he looks at me. "And for you Madame?"

I scan the menu again. Hmm... I have to make him pay for scaring me earlier and like they say 'payback is a bitch'.  When I see the most expensive course that involves chopped pork with mushroom sauce and a vegetable dressing I point it to the waiter then close the menu and look back at Jimin with a smirk.

When the waiter leaves he asks me" why are you looking like the most despicable person on the earth right now? What did you do?"

My smirk remains plastered on my face as I respond" I only took a course that will cost you some money. Precisely 50.000₩." I say satisfied of my plan.

He looks at me with his mouth open wide. " What? I- I- I mean that is not pricey at all." He behaves himself and when I see his frowning brows I want to laugh. "If I will get a kiss and a number from a pretty girl out of this I would pay anything." He wriggles his brows at me.

I feel so embarrassed at his cheesiness right now. I stuck my tongue out at him and he winks at me exactly when out waiter arrives at the table with our plates. We eat for a while,chewing sounds all that is heard. Until he asks me " Is it good?"

"Yeah, really good for its price." I say teasingly.

He laughs and then wipes his mouth clean with a tissue. "So are we going for churros my hungry little girl?"

"Yep" I take my jacket and we exit the restaurant.

When we arrive at the churros shop he asks me how big I want my bowl and I tell him that i want the large bowl. He stares at me in shock..." How can you eat that much? How does so much food enter that small body?"

"Hey I am not that small. I am 2 inches shorter than you. And to answer your question I eat out a lot when I can because at I don't like to cook. My roommate is responsible for the cooking in our apartment but she is always at school when I am hungry. So now that I can eat good things I eat them. Especially because you are paying." I smile sweetly at him.

Jimin glares at me. " Okok I understand." He then asks" if your roommate is responsible of the cooking what do you do?"

" I am responsible of the cleaning. Give me my phone and earphones and I could clean all day. I hate cooking because I don't like staying over the stove for hour and because when it's hot our mini kitchen transforms in a sauna together with our living room that is connected to it." I explain.

He nods in understanding." I like cooking. Maybe you could taste my cooking one day." He then looks at me with a puppy look on his face.

"Yeah maybe..." I say. "Now go get me some churros with extra chocolate sauce before I change my mind." He happily obliges and runs inside the store. I sit on the side walk waiting for him.

After 5 minutes he is out and handing me my packet of churros but before I open eat he drags me to the park near the building sitting on the bench and patting the spot near him, so I sit.

" So what was the disastrous fact that happened to you today?" He opens his pack and dives a churro inside the chocolate sauce before bringing it to his mouth.

"How do you know something bad happened?" I am surprised.

"Because you were meditating on that bridge and because you said you had a very shitty day." He continues chewing and I stare at the tiny chocolate spot near his mouth.

I look at him deciding if I should explain that fact to him. Without thinking I reach my hand and swipe it across the spot of chocolate over his mouth. We then stare a each other shocked.  Why did I even do this? What is happening to me? This boy is so cute he is driving me insane! Okok relax. Breath. After my internal prep talk I take my hand away from his lips and wipe it with a tissue.

" Sorry... I wasn't thinking." I look at him to see his reaction.

" No no don't worry. Anyway  tell me what happened?"

"Oh yeah. Well, I don't know how to start this." I breathe." I have a male bestfiend that I started having a crush on some moths ago. I don't know how it started and I didn't even know it until he came to me one day and said that he had gotten himself a girlfriend."

I look at Jimin but he just continues chewing on his churros looking ahead and listening to me. " I was so jealous that day and after I called myself down I decided that I didn't need to make a big fuss out of this. He was my best friend and he could date whoever he wanted. I supposed my crush would pass with time but..."

I interrupted myself because it hurt so much remembering those moments. Jimin looked at me and then he took my hand in his giving it a squeeze as to say he is right there for me. I've never felt so comfortable around a person. " But when I saw them together I wanted to cry. And that is all I did that night. The pain and hurt subsided over the months but I still feel something in the pit of my stomach every time I see him with her. I started to put some distance between us and it was going all right. Until last night..." Tears started forming in my eyes as Jimin spoke.

" You don't have to tell me it's all right..."

I continues as if not hearing him because I wanted to take this off my chest." L-last night I was at a frat party at our university. He was there. I saw him. We exchanged some words but nothing else like we were strangers and not best friends since we were 11. Thinking that I didn't know who was standing in front if me anymore put more sadness in me....so... I began drinking and the last thing I remember is him taking me in his car."

I paused just to see Jimin looking at me with attention,  like he was studying my features. Then I continued." This morning when I woke up I was in his bed. I didn't know how I arrived there so I got out of bed just to see that I didn't have my jeans on me anymore. I spotted them on the chair near the bed and put them on. Then I exited the room and saw him and her on the couch half-naked. A used condom at the bottom of the bed. I started crying so bad. They had sex while I was in the house , I didn't think he had that little respect of me. So I did the only thing I could, that was scramble for my things around the house and leave that place as fast as my trembling legs allowded me. I cryed in the street for hours going to eat lunch. After that i walked some more and when i found myself on that bridge I thought it would be safe to lean there at meditate about nothing for a while. Like all my problems didn't even exist. That's when you came into the picture." I stopped and saw a sad and pitiful look in his eyes.

" You don't have to be sorry for me. That's how life goes you know." I laugh though my tears seeing the face he is making.

He then comes close, his arms snake around my waist and I allowe him that. I bury my face in the crook of his neck taking in his musk scent.

We stayed like that for a while. Then I open my mouth to speak. "Thank you for listening to me."

He removes one of his hands from my waist letting it caress my hair delicately." No prob. Don't worry everything will be alright."

I scoff." Easy for you to say. You are not in my situation."

"I know but if you let me I could help you forget this feelings for him. You could give me a chance. Especially after I treated you to a  50.000₩ pork cutlet." He smiles at me.

I chuckle and lean in towards him. He takes my chin between his fingers and looks at my eyes, then at my lips, then at my eyes again as if asking for permission. I nod. That is all he needs to lean in and connect his lips to mine in a very calming kiss.

He kisses me a couple more times and then asks " I know you haven't eaten all your churros yet but... would you give me your number bridgegirl ?" His look is pleading.

"Yeah pretty boy, I totally would." Then he kisses me again.

A/N: Aaanndd this is the second chapter of the story. I will try to update it one time a week from now on so stay tuned. Please vote! And thank you very much for reading!😀