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dontforgetoctober3rd · 1 year ago

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Come Go With Me

A Michael Gavey fic.

EDIT: Now with art! (just a sketch tho)

Summary: It's the spring of 2007 and Michael Gavey has so far kept to the vow he made to never socialize again after Oliver ditched him. Then he meets a cute girl at a coffee shop. Will the vow stand strong or immediately go down the drain?

Word Count: 3986

Rating: T (plenty of swearing, instances of misogyny, objectification of the female body, atrociously incorrect bagel eating, New York City slander, etc.)

Author's Note: yes, the title is the song by Expose. Also, I'm a corny writer.

Divider by @cafekitsune

“I don’t know or care what Oliver Quick is doing this summer,” Michael said, continuing to type on his laptop, not even making eye contact with whoever asked the question. The guy who asked left without saying anything further.

Some random guy in the library asked Michael if it was true that Oliver was going to be spending the summer with Felix on his family’s estate. It was more about prying into Felix’s business than him wanting to know anything about Oliver, Michael thought. Oliver was not on the same level of being interesting (in the eyes of the general student populace) that the Cattons were.

Michael didn’t give a shit that Oliver was going to fancy fucking Saltburn with his new, snobby, loser, nepo baby friends for the summer. Really, he didn’t. When Oliver humiliated him at the bar, he made the decision then to swear off any further socializing at the university. It was the best thing he ever did.

Already, he felt less anxious. He had more time to focus on his coursework. More time to read new books, attend off campus lectures. Walks in the park by himself were quite relaxing when he didn’t have to think about topics to keep a stilted, dying conversation going. He even went so far as to set aside time to play video games again. Every weekend, for one hour and a half, he lost himself in Fable on his Xbox.

Michael still felt the sting of the bar betrayal from time to time, as he thought he had finally found a true friend in Oliver (or at least, the potential for him to become one). The new, lone path taken had helped him realize that he was not the problem. Oliver was just an asshole, like the majority of those who went to Oxford.

Sometimes Michael wondered why people didn’t like him. Must be how smart he was. There was nothing weird about being good at math. What was so awful about being good at math, anyway? He guessed that most peoples’ biggest issue with his smarts was that it reminded them they were stupid. Oh well! Plenty of time for activities by himself now.

One of those activities was fast became his favorite, after only his fourth visit. Visiting a little coffee shop he had discovered near the river, he was able to “mingle” among people without having to talk to anyone. No one would bother him here and he would still get his dose of human contact which, after all, was vital to the psychological constitution of a person. As rigid as he intended on being with his new No Socializing At Oxford vows, Michael did not intend on becoming a psychopath. Besides, the baristas never got his order wrong. They never talked to him beyond the perfunctory taking of his order but after the third time, when he walked in, instead of asking what he would like the person at the register had asked “The usual?” and Michael would just say yes, thank you, and then pay.

Michael packed up his laptop, shoving it and the charger into his reusable Tescoe bag along with his notebooks. He stood and adjusted his sweater, checked all his pant pockets were buttoned up and zipped closed. He kept his visits only to every other day so as to not have the monotony grate on his nerves. The coffee shop made fresh bagels every day, however, and he had been looking forward to enjoying one all morning (his favorite was blueberry). He liked to eat his a certain way, scooping out the insides of each slice before finally eating the hollowed out crusts. Someone at school would surely have an opinion about his bagel-eating method (not that he cared) but at the coffee shop, Michael was left in peace.

Walking briskly through the library doors and outside in the crisp spring air, he didn’t even look in direction of Oliver walking up the steps into the library with Felix. They were laughing about something but Michael didn’t even breathe in their direction.

—---------

The delicious smell of bread baking hit him in a wave as he stepped into the coffee shop. It looked like a rush had just hit, the baristas busy cleaning and restocking various items.

“Hi! I’ll take your order right over here.” came the chipper voice. Michael turned.

Oh god, a new hire. An American one (he was pretty sure the accent he heard was American) Maybe he wasn’t entitled to feel irritated about changes in the store, it's not like he owned the damn thing, but Michael felt irritated just the same. This was HIS spot and someone new had just invaded it.

The new girl had long hair parted in the middle, tied back in a bun. The hair was turquoise. A very bright turquoise, almost neon, he would say. It pissed him off even more. Dyed hair was so fucking tacky.

He trudged to the register, hating every second of anticipating having to deal with someone new, someone chatty, even for something as impersonal as coffee.

The girl was almost as tall as he was, eye-level to him, smiling the fakest fucking smile he had ever seen. I mean, it had to be fake. Who looked this happy to be taking a stranger’s order? He didn’t even bother attempting to smile back. Whatever. Get my coffee, bitch Michael though.

“I’ll have a large vanilla coffee, sugar free, with a blueberry bagel.”

“Ah, so just cutting back on the sugar but can’t quite quit it altogether, eh?” the girl said with a wink and another smile, totally unperturbed by his attitude.

Michael pursed his lips and said nothing. The girl, still unbothered, looked down and clacked away on the touch screen. He quickly looked over her in the few seconds she imputed his order.

She had long, acrylic nails, painted a pastel kind of purple. Her name tag said Cat, which he guessed was short for Catherine. Maybe. Also her boobs were big. Not normal big, but stripper big. Not that he would know, but still. Too big for the word “boobs”, for sure. Tits seemed like a more appropriate word. If he had ever been to a strip club he was pretty damn sure stripper tits would look exactly like hers. And she had tattoos covering the entirety of her left arm. Classy, he thought condescendingly. No wonder she was working here instead of somewhere like a bank.

Michael wondered if she had tattoos on her chest as well…he was so sure he could avert his gaze before she noticed but suddenly her fingers snapped and her head lowered into his line of vision, a smug look on her face. Small wisps of hair hung in front of her ears, he noticed.

“You lose something. buddy?” she asked.

“I didn’t mean-I was just looking at your name tag.” he sputtered, fidgeting with a cuff of his sweater.

“Look, it's fine. They’re tits.”

Michael flinched slightly at her casual use of the word. It was one thing to talk like that with other guys, but girls? What was she trying to prove? Tits tits tits. He made a point to stare straight into her eyes and not look away while she continued to speak. “Its not a big deal, I promise,” she said, finishing up his order on the register and offering her hand to take payment.

Choosing not to respond, Michael set his Tesco bag on the counter so he could unzip one of his pockets to get at his credit card. The pocket it was in was hard to open and the zipper always caught, so two hands were needed.

“You can look, you know, just don’t be creepy about it.” she continued, as he struggled slightly with the pocket.

Michael did not look at her as he handed over the card.

Being branded a “creep” was the last thing Michael needed. He was already the Lonely Nerd at university, he really did not want to become the Creepy Lonely Nerd (that ogles stranger’s tits). Not that he would give a shit what people thought, but one less socially crippling label was better than one more.

“I mean, it’s not like I can leave them at home, right? I don’t mind a little look here and there!” she said with a laugh, handing back his card. Unbelievable. She was still talking about her tits!

“Can I get that to go?” Michael answered more than asked.

“Sure thing. Uh, what’s your name?”

“I’m Michael.” He was not staying here. He was not going to stay and become the Creepy Tit Guy. Given her outgoing nature, Cat would probably have something to say about the way he ate his bagel, too, he was sure of it. He would become Creepy Tit And Weirdo Bagel Eating Method Guy if he stayed. Maybe dealing with this at university would have been easier but this was supposed to be his relaxation spot. The coffee shop was ruined for him now, he would never come back. Ever. Fuck this place and fuck her.

“Alrighty, dude. Be right back!”

“My name is not…dude..” Michael stepped away from the register, his voice fading away to nothing as Cat got his order ready, unable to hear him. There was no one else coming in right now, it seemed he came during a lull. The other employees were still cleaning and restocking.

“Here you go!” Cat said with a smile, handing him his bagel in a paper wrap and his coffee.

Still not looking at her, he took his bagel and his coffee and got the fuck out of there, practically powerwalking away.

It was only until he made it to a nearby park bench that he finally saw what Cat had written on the other side of his bagel wrapper. A whole paragraph, practically. Michael, sorry for making you feel uncomfortable. I was just trying to be funny, I swear. Enjoy your coffee. Hope you come back!

Michael felt relief for a moment, before loudly groaning and spilling some of his coffee as he made to slap his forehead with that same hand. He had left his fucking Tescoe bag at the coffee shop. His bag that had his computer, his notebooks, his finished papers for a couple of classes.

He had to go back. Fuck.

“Yeah, sorry, but she said she knew you.”

Michael swore. The cashier informed him that Cat had just left, her shift was over. She had taken the bag with her to the Oxford library. Apparently, she was a student there? Who fucking knew!?

“You need me to call the police?”

“No, that’s all right, I do know her.” Michael lied. “I told her earlier I’d be headed to the library later. She probably figures she can catch me there.” Without a single, civil ‘thank you’, Michael practically fled the shop.

He didn’t care how dumb it looked that he was frantically looking everywhere in the library for the familiar, turquoise hair. People always looked at him funny. It’s not like he could go to each of them individually and ask them hey could you please stop snidely whispering every time you look in my direction? Old Michael would go back to his dorm, have a cry, wonder why no one liked him and then quickly finish his homework in his dungeon of a bedroom before crying some more and then going to sleep.

New Michael didn’t give a shit. New Michael was focused 100 percent on his academics and self-care, and right now his academics were in jeopardy because that Tesco bag held papers he had yet to type (Michael liked to hand write his work first, he felt it was more thorough). Also, maybe New Michael should better remember to not forget his shit at random shops. Old Michael wouldn’t have forgotten. Whatever.

After scanning the entire first floor of the library, he stomped to the second floor. If she was a student here, how had he never seen her? The hair would have been hard to miss. Of course, it's not like he made it a habit to people watch anymore, especially in the library.

Suddenly, he saw her. Way in the corner, at a table right under a huge window, he saw her returning with her nose in a book from the shelves. On the table, his bag.

“Give it here.” Michael said, approaching the table. Cat looked up from her book.

God, she was pretty. He felt like a troll next to her. It was so fucking unfair. More importantly though…why was he telling her to hand the bag back? It was HIS. He should just take it and go, without a word. She had basically stolen it. The girl was a thief and took it to give him a hard time because she was a bitch, like every other pretty girl he had ever interacted with and been cut down by. Maybe he could like her if he gave it a try…but the days of trying to get people to think he was cool or amazing were over. She was a bitch and he knew it.

Mmm not what the note on your bagel showed, an annoying voice in his head began. That note could only have been written if she liked you because who would write that for a random customer? You should talk to her an-

Oh, fucking christ. Old Michael. Desperate-to-be-liked-by-someone-ANYONE Michael. Shut the fuck up, Old Michael. You are dead.

“Yeah, no problem, I mean it is your bag!” Cat said cheerfully, closing her book and holding the bag out to him. “Sorry you had to run all this way to get it, Michael.”

“Um, it’s ok. I run fast.” Michael said, immediately regretting it. God, that sounded so fucking stupid. He reached out for his bag.

Oh, so we’re no longer on that socializing ban, huh, Mr. Comedian? I mean, what was THAT?! Old Michael thought slyly. Shut up shut up shut up shut up!!!!! And, look! She remembers your name! SHUT UP.

“-couldn’t just leave it there, you know?” Cat had finished saying.

Michael froze. “Huh?”

What had she been talking about? Shit. “Uh, why not?” Please let that be the right response. Please let that be relevant to what she was fucking saying, Michael thought desperately.

Cat rolled her eyes, but still sounded…not like a bitch? “The laptop would definitely have been long gone if I hadn’t taken the bag. I couldn’t just leave it there.”

Oh. That was it. That had been all she had said. Michael nodded and mumbled his thanks, ready to go…except Cat still held onto the bag. And stopped him with her next words.

“You play Fable a lot?”she asked.

It’s a trap. She is going to make fun of you, he thought to himself. Just get your shit and go. His hand was also still on HIS bag. That she was not letting go of, for some reason.

“Yeah, I like it a lot.”

Oh, how riveting. That will make her swoon! Old Michael chimed in.

“Really?” Cat responded. Her tone wasn’t mocking. It was…interested? “I like it too but it feels unfinished, somehow. I wish they would release Fallout 3 for these new consoles already, I bet it would be 1000 times better than this crap that Lionhead put out.”

Michael nodded. She liked Fallout? She was impatient for the release?? Ask her to go with you to the midnight release next year!!! Ask her ask her ask her ask- No. Shut up. Be normal, for once in your life, be normal and chill about something.

“-able doesn’t feel like it’s TRULY a good rpg, where you can do whatever you want, you know? You can only go in one direction and can’t put off the main quest at all.”

She was still talking about Fable. She was still talking about video games, something they both liked, something they had in common.

This is your chance, you know. Old Michael piped in. Did any of those other people ever show even the slightest interest in the stuff you were into? Ever? Ask her out!

“Ok,” Michael began. “I see your point, but the mechanics of the game aren’t the star so much as the incredible story and character designs-”

While he continued to go on a tangent of Fable’s good qualities to Cat, trying his best not to sound too rant-y, Michael frantically gave the idea of asking her out some thought…

What if she said no? Hm what if she says yes?

It’s stupid. The release for Fallout 3 is next year. No, not even. It’s October of that year, so…over a year away! Almost two fucking years! What kind of weirdo would ask someone on a date almost two years from now?! Plus, she isn’t even into me. She just likes video games, like any other person.

Why is she still holding onto your bag, then? Old Michael thought smugly. Why did she write that little note on your bagel? Why did she remember your name? Why-

All right, all right.

“Right, so…want to come? To the midnight release for it? For Fallout 3?” Michael asked, throwing all caution to the wind and swallowing his preemptive rejection rage that already was bubbling up.

“For Fallout?” Cat said, still holding onto the bag. “Which store you going to?”

“Target.” Please say yes. I don’t even know you and I know it’s weird to ask you somewhere practically two years from now but PLEASE SAy YES, Michael thought.

“Mm, nah.” Cat, said, letting go of the bag to dig in her bookbag.

Shit.

Michael’s chest began to hurt, the hand holding his bag falling limply to his side. He could feel his eyes begin to water. She was just like the rest of them. Pathetic. So pathe-

“You should come with me to Game on Queen Street, they always price cut!” Cat said, whipping out her blackberry. “Whatever price we show them for the game, they’ll shave 5 off it! I mean, it’s not much but I’ll take what I can get! Here, put your number in.”

On sheer autopilot, Michael put his number in. He felt ashamed the entire time, having choked back a scathing insult at the last minute before Cat had shoved her phone at him.

“Are you ok?” Cat took her phone back, eyeing him with a concerned look.

“I’m fine! It’s just-probably something I caught the other day, I can already feel the sniffles coming on and whatnot. It’s nothing!” Michael babbled.

It cannot be this easy, Michael thought. It’s been this easy the entire time? Hanging out with a girl? Talking to her? Making plans? Why did Oliver never like him when they had so much in common?

Holy shit, forget about fucking Oliver! You have a date with your future wife! Old Michael practically screeched. Jesus fucking Christ, you are desperate. Shut the fuck up!! Be Normal!

“You wanna go back to the shop and get another bagel?” Cat asked, putting her books away and sliding on her bookbag. “ We could use my discount, that way-”

“Yeah, let's go.” Michael cut in. Grabbing her wrist and not waiting for her answer, he turned and began to swiftly move through the library. He tried not to get excited as Cat uttered a quick ‘cool’ and kept pace with him.

He also tried not to think about how awkwardly he was holding her hand. Everyone in the library was staring, he saw it in his peripheral. It had looked so cool in his brain but now everyone could see how his stupid hand around her wrist slightly resembled him holding his limp-no no no no noooo shut up shut up SHUT UP.

“Blueberry runs out quick.” Michael said, as they both briskly walked. “I went one time at around this hour instead of my usual time and I had to settle for onion, which is gross as shit.” You’re rambling, Old Michael chided. She fucking works there, she doesn’t need a play-by-play of bagel supply issues. Let her say something, idiot! The reason he never noticed her before, it turned out, was that she hadn’t dyed her hair yet. Cat also began to tell him about her history degree. Something about the American Gilded age and how she was deep into research of the British Astors or something. Michael surprisingly found himself not bored. Were her eyes fucking green? Oh, fuck, they were green!

They finally saw the shop in the distance. Right after his anti-onion bagel tirade and her talk of her studies, he set straight into a long-winded verbal onslaught on the statistics of how rare green eyes were. Micheal thought his heart would fall out of his asshole when Cat adjusted their hands so her fingers were laced with his. About halfway through the distance, he had cut in when she mentioned her favorite bagel flavor (pineapple) and talked her ear off the rest of the way about his bagel eating method, insisting on its practicality but really prepping her so that she wouldn’t be horrified when she saw him do it and ditch him like fucking Oliver. She laughed.

“That’s so L.A. of you. New York would hate your fucking guts, though.” she said, with a grin. “Good thing I’m a California girl! I’d rather deal with horrible traffic and scooped bagels than having to fight rats for sidewalk space.”

Right before they got to the doors, Michael went for it. “I’m telling people that you’re my girlfriend.”, he said seriously. She hadn’t run off when he had taken her hand (wrist). She had noticed the Fable stickers on his computer. She had remembered his name after one interaction. The American thing was a slight issue but hey, no one was perfect!

“Cool, because I already told the staff that you were my boyfriend when I took your bag!” Cat responded. “I told them you like to pretend you don’t know me when you get mad and I just play along to pacify you. It was the only way they were comfortable letting me take your bag!”

Be cool! Do not fucking freak out! Act fucking normal! Do NOT scare her away! Say something a fucking weirdo would never in a million years say! Old Michael reminded him.

“Let’s go back to my place after and study some calculus. Your grades in that sound horrendous.” Fucccccck. You just got yourself a girlfriend and this is the shit you respond with?! Old Michael panicked.

Cat smirked. “Only if you promise to fuck me into your mattress after.”

Michael stared at her, almost daring her to say she was kidding. When she didn’t and her gaze briefly dropped to his lips, he abandoned any doubts he had and turned to walk away from the shop, practically dragging Cat with him.

Cat giggled and adjusted herself to clutch at his arm with both hands, her legs and his in perfect sync as they made their way to Michael’s room.

—------------

“What the fuck?” Felix said to Oliver, pointing. Both were sitting on a bench, relaxing a bit before their next class.

“Didn’t he go fucking mental at you the first day? Not to be a dick or anything but is she safe with that guy?”

Oliver followed Felix’s finger and froze.

He gaped at what he saw:

Michael fucking Gavey, math genius slash freak of nature, walking happily with the pretty American girl who had said no to their bar hopping invite just last week. It was definitely surprising, but Oliver was now more determined than ever. If a fucking social reject like Gavey could get what he was after, then someone like himself was sure to have the same luck if he continued to put in the effort.

THE END

#Michael Gavey #Michael Gavey fic #ewanverse #Michael Gavey X Bimbo gf #Michael Gavey fanfiction #fanfiction #I DID IT I FINISHED IT #*jeb bush voice* please clap #I WAS going to put smut in it but despite some excellent advice i still couldn't do it!#I need to practice more! i really want to write a good fuck one day!#curse my catholic upbringing ugrrrrhhhh #yes this is corny but have you taken into consideration the fact that I DO NOT CARE???#i live life on the cob baby #and if the only way to improve my writing is by embarrassing myself on this hellsite then so fucking BE IT

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wooahaeruby · 3 days ago

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Chapter 36: Four Million Steps Back

Chapter Word Count: 7,035

Vomitin. Stalking, Mouse continues to get traumatized. I'm sorry. IT IS GROSS SO BE WARNED. Alcohol mentions/drinking (mentioned) I can't think of anything else personally so let me know if I missed something

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Even though you moved into a safer place, you were still hesitant to go anywhere, one alone, or two, out of your routine alone.

You have become relatively settled into the new place, ordered furniture online or someone took you to the store. The TVs were at least out of their boxes so you could use them. Wonwoo’s admission of checking the closet was an event. Along with the TVs and PS5, inside the closet was a new Xbox and wall mounts, all covered in bows as well. You also managed to kick Wonwoo’s ass figuratively since he gorilla glued the bows to the boxes which was not fun to find out when you unboxed everything.

You didn’t really have the time (or motivation) to set the systems, your computer, or mount the TVs. Jeonghan, Joshua, or both were almost always around, which you loved and appreciated, and they loved to take up your time and get your mind off whatever worried you. If they weren’t able to take you places, Sona was around. Since having a somewhat normal schedule now that she was your ‘assistance’, Sona made you at least leave the apartment to go food shopping once a week.

“I’m just picking up a package from my old place.” You said into the phone, hearing Joshua hum in return.

“Okay, I’ll order some food for when you get back.”

“Order Hannie something too, please. He said he’d be back later tonight.” Punching in the door code, you sighed, passing the mail room. “ Rheia said one of her ladies left the box in her place for me.”

“Mhmm, I’ll see you when you get back.”

Hanging up, you took the elevator up to your old floor, making it to Ms. Nina’s door. She texted you the entrance code to her home when you informed you about the package, along with a comment that she is doing well and hopes the move was alright. You don’t remember ordering something and forgetting to have it shipped to your new place, but…you have been ordering a decent amount recently from different places.

Thankfully it wasn’t hard to find, placed neatly on the console table near the door. It wasn’t too large, maybe a foot long, wide, and high if you had to guess. Lifting it was light and it was tabled up well, maybe a little excessively to keep whatever you ordered protected.

Rush hour traffic gave you time to wrack your brain on what it could be, but there wasn’t a thing on the packaging to give any indication, only a nicely printed label with your name and old address. Unless you forgot something, nothing came to mind.

“I’m back!” Yelling into your apartment, you dropped your bag on the kitchen island, along with the box.

“Hey.” Joshua came from the master bedroom, shuffling over to circle his arms around your waist when he got close enough. “Food should be here soon.”

“Thank god, I forgot to eat lunch, Busy day.” Kissing his cheek then his lips, you leaned into his hold. “Can you do me a favor?”

“Anything.” Joshua kissed the top of your head.

“Can you grab my laptop and charger? I need to finish a few emails before I forget tomorrow.”

He smiled down at you, nosing scrunching up. “Of course.”

With him off to fetch what you asked for, you grabbed a pair of scissors from a drawer, starting to cut the tape to open the box. You were met with styrofoam and an…unpleasant smell reaching your nose. You almost gagged but it wasn’t too bad.

“What the hell did I-” Lifting the lid on the styrofoam, the rotting smell hit you hard, and as you looked in, a nearly blood curdling scream left your through.

There was a crash as you stepped away, sliding your back down the fridge until you hit the floor. Joshua yelled out your name but you slapped a hand over your mouth and scrambled to the trash can to throw up.

“Oh my god.” Joshua gagged, but he kept his composure the best he could. He placed the lid back on top to lessen the smell and made his way over to check on you. “I’m gonna call-”

You threw up once more, barely holding your hair back the best you could for yourself. He stayed at your side, helping hold your hair as he called everyone .

Sona was the first to show up, already in the building, the first call on Joshua’s list. She took over Joshua’s place for a moment, allowing him to talk properly. She rubbed your back and held your hair through your second bout of sickness. You asked for water, which she hurried to get you, even an ice pack to cool you down. You couldn’t get the words to tell her what happened but when your boyfriend came back, he was able to fill her in.

Seokmin, Jihoon, and Jun were in the penthouse and showed up not long after Joshua hung up. Wonwoo, Soonyoung, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Mingyu were only a few minutes behind.

“Jesus Christ.” You heard Wonwoo stutter out, surprised at the contents. “Dead mice?” he was really trying to whisper, yet you honed in on it and the image in your head had you throwing up stomach acid once again.

Jun cleared his throat, speaking quietly. “Guys, there are thirteen of them.”

“Shut it.” Joshua warned.

“Sona,” You huffed out, barely able to speak from the burning in your throat. “Can you help me?”

You didn’t realize tears had fallen from your eyes until she whipped them away.

“Yeah, come on.” She easily helped you up and out of the area. Sona got you into the closest bathroom in the makeshift storage room, setting you down on the closed toilet seat.

“Why me?” You weakly managed to ask and Sona sighed, taking a hand towel to wipe off your makeup.

“I don’t know,” She pushed your hair back, being gentle with you, maybe scared you’d break at a moment's notice. “But you know we will figure it out.”

“Will you…drive me to and from work when Seokmin can’t?”

Sona gave a sad laugh, nodding her head. “Yeah, of course I will, Mouse.”

She easily got your makeup off, brushing your hair back more. You could hear talking from the guys and it’s like every other stalker attack all over again. Everyone was in your home, talking about it, trying to whisper, and keeping you protected. There was a large chance Wonwoo wasn’t going to find anything significant, you’d be back to square one, and you wouldn’t know how to get anything without risking yourself.

You thought about it, probably shouldn’t have. None of them would let you execute the horrible plan you concocted in your head. They’d never let you use yourself as bait, no matter how much it was planned out and followed to a T.

“Mouse?” Sona broke you out of your train of thought, “Let's get you up and into your room.”

You let her lead you out of the room, placing herself behind you so you wouldn’t look over your shoulder to the guys. She pretty much forced you to change and lovingly brushed your hair before braiding it loosely to keep neat. She asked you a few times if you needed anything, but you shook your head, knowing you weren’t going to be able to eat now. You had a headache and you were dizzy, yet you only asked Sona if she could lay down with you for a little bit. Though she looked worried, she did, more sitting up as you curled up under the thick blankets beside her legs.

You didn’t know how long you laid there, but without any warning you sat up and left bed, quickly followed behind by Sona.

“Guys-” You coughed weakly and cleared your throat.

They were littered around the living room and kitchen, the box was gone but they all looked as tired as you felt.

Seungkwan was the closest to you and he tucked you into his side, resting his chin on your head to provide comfort. You let out a shaky sigh and stepped back from him, straightening your shoulders.

“Are you hungry?” Mingyu tried to offer but you shook your head. “Do you need something?”

“No, fuck, let me-” You shaked out your limbs, groaning in frustration. “I can’t fucking think.”

Joshua approached you, holding his hand out and you took it, you didn’t see Jeonghan or Seungcheol, but you know they had a meeting tonight, which was why Jeonghan would have been home late.

“I don’t even know why I came out here-” Pinching the bridge of your nose, you balled your free hand into a fist. “I’m frustrated, I’m fucking angry to the point that I should definitely not be around any weapons right now, and I’m fed up of this bullshit. How can this person just…” You almost let out a growl in anger.

“How can this person slip through our fingers every time? Why the hell is he obsessed with me? It doesn’t make sense and I’m-” You could feel yourself boiling, the internal pot ready to spill over in rage and you needed to keep it below the surface. “This isn’t going to stop.”

“Mouse, you don’t know that.” Wonwoo spoke up, shaking his head.

“No offense, Wonu, but I can’t believe that at the moment after everything.” You pushed out a long breath, closing your eyes to center yourself. “You’ve all done everything to find this person – people –, but nothing has come up so far.”

“I’m sorry.” Joshua whispered, tightening his hold on your head, dropping his head some.

“I’m not asking you to stop looking, I want you to continue, I just…I don’t know how much gas I have left in me before I’m at my full wits end.”

“I’m not…saying you should come over, but it would be nice.” You muttered into the phone, hearing the bright laughter from Seungcheol.

“Yeah, I’ll ditch the fight ring tonight.”

“Good, I could use some help setting up the two game systems you got me.”

“Don’t know what you are talking about, I’ll see you in about an hour, Mouse.”

“You can let yourself in.”

“Got it, see you soon.”

You weren’t going to tell him you were curled up on the couch, not wanting to be alone since Joshua and Jeonghan wouldn’t be home until late again. Everyone, however, knew you had barely left the apartment. Seokmin and Sona went back to driving you to and from work, you ordered groceries or someone picked them up if you asked. You hadn’t slept alone since the box incident.

Nearly three weeks since then and everyone either said nothing or tiptoed around the issue. The only time you got a proper, straight answer was when you sat both your boyfriends down and asked. They confirmed Jun’s statement, that there were thirteen dead mice in the box, however further investigation showed each of them had the guys’ initials carved into them. When being disposed of, there was a picture of just you with Xs cut into your eyes.

Wonwoo was your next target of information, you cornered him at the house the first weekend after but there wasn’t much to say. The tracking number, barcodes, and everything else was a spoof, fake. Security footage showed the usual mail currier dropping it off but a further look into it came up just as short. None of it made sense, whoever sent it was incredible at covering their tracks and knew of SVT.

So, whenever you are alone, you’ve been online shopping for everyone’s Christmas presents. When one came in, you made Sona open them as a precaution (except when it was hers that came in, Jeonghan did that) and hid most of them in your ‘storage’ room closet under a bunch of other boxes. All of them were there, except for Jeonghan’s, whose present was at Sona’s since he was nosy. Joshua was more patient.

It was only two-ish weeks until the holidays and you weren’t in any proper Christmas mood. Mingyu and Chan were decorating the house, seeing as all of them would be home for the holidays. Joshua was alongside them with the holiday spirit with them, helping every chance we could.

“I brought tacos.” Seungcheol called through your home, giving a sympathetic pout when he noticed you wrapped up in a blanket. “Mouse…”

You focused back in, getting up quickly. “Hey- I was going to clean up but-”

Placing the bag of take out down, Seungcheol hurried over, shaking his head. “No no, it’s okay. It isn’t a problem.”

Sucking in a deep breath, you felt him pull you into his arms. “Things have been difficult.”

“I know. No one is expecting you to be perfect.” His voice was as soft as the gaze he set down to you. “You don’t have to explain.”

You stayed in his hold for a few moments, basking in the warmth you didn’t have when alone. “Do you want to eat in the game room and get everything set up?”

He nodded, tracing his fingers down your arms until he would hold your smaller hands, letting his thumbs run over your knuckles. “Maybe…we can watch a movie too? I can set stuff up and turn this into a little…date?”

“Yeah. I’d like that, Cheol, a lot.”

You and Seungcheol sat on the couch in your game room, eating as he worked on getting the consoles set up. Previously, you at least removed them from their boxes once an entertainment system was bought and built. He really tried to have you pick a dumb tag name each time, liking the joke of Mighty Mouse . You absolutely denied his pressing, laughing at his pouting and whining even when he fell into your lap.

Seungcheol did relent nonetheless, but he was content with settling in your personal space, not that you minded. You let him rest most of his weight against you, laying between your legs with his back to your chest. He easily finished the job, making sure both systems were up to date and operating properly. When things were to his satisfaction, he logged into one of the many streaming services they shared, scrolling through movie options until one was agreed upon.

He got up and ran to your living room to get some blankets as it loaded, settling back between your legs after silently asking permission with his eyes. This time, he had his head barely over your chest, arms wrapped around your waist. It was new for the both of you, but everything felt comfortable. He felt comfortable. The weight was welcoming, calming, and you weren’t really plagued with the intrusive thoughts you’ve been dealing with.

Halfway through the movie, you were dozing in and out. A peek down showed Cheol he was in a similar state, eyes half lidded and lips parted as his breathing slowed. Reaching up, you ever so slowly threaded your fingers through his hair and he sucked in a breath, groaning out a question. You huffed out a chuckle, curling a piece of hair around your finger.

“Go back to sleep, you were cute.”

Seungcheol scoffed, snuggled back into his place playing on your front, arms tightening around you. “ ‘m not cute.”

“Mhmm, keep telling yourself that.”

He grumbled, muttering something you couldn’t understand, eyes fully closed and you assumed he fell asleep. You couldn’t reach the remote or control to turn either the TV or console off so you simply let yourself join him in slumber.

“That was a great set of fights.” Jeonghan hummed, stretching his arms above his head, a satisfying pop leaving his body. “I’d like for Jihoon to be a regular but that’ll never happen.”

“Absolutely not. He’d only fight in free-for-alls. You saw him.” Joshua rolled his neck, waiting for the elevator to reach Mouse’s floor.

Jeonghan chuckled, quiet and airy, dramatically letting himself lean against the elevator wall. “He uses my club for anger management.”

Joshua rolled his eyes, laughing as he shook his head. “And you used his club to lure Mouse and I together.”

The other man huffed, rolling his eyes. “Touche. He can free-for-all whenever we have it, which I’m thinking should be after the holidays.”

“Man, I’m ready to crash after a shower. It was packed and the heater was somehow still blowing all the hot air out.”

“Yeah, I gotta get the heater checked out.” The elevator dinged and the doors slid open. “Sorry about that.”

Joshua waved his friend off, stepping into the hallway and down the hall to the door. He tapped in the lock code, frowning at the majority of the lights on. Joshua looked to Jeonghan but the latter shrugged.

“She forgets sometimes.” Was all he said.

Frowning, Joshua started to shut off some of the lights as Jeonghan strolled down the hall, coming to a stop at Mouse’s game room. Joshua joined him, seeing the grin on the other’s face.

Glancing into the room, he was met with Mouse and Seungcheol asleep, with the leader curled comfortably on top of her. Jeonghan only snickered, nodding his head almost proudly.

Joshua…He of course knew that Mouse was going out, kinda , with Seungcheol. She was honest, there were multiple long conversations to make sure the three were on the same page and comfortable. He knew everything was moving slowly at her request. With everything throwing her life into a constant state of chaos, this was the first, if he remembered, that they had been together alone in a bit. Seeing them laying there wasn’t uncomfortable, they – he – trusted her to talk to them. Really it made him feel at ease that when he or Jeonghan weren’t able to be with her, Seungcheol would be.

Jeonghan nudged him with his elbow, crossing his arms. “It’s cute.” He whispered, a fond gaze in his eyes.

Joshua hummed, giving a small nod. “We should wake him up at least. He will wake up really uncomfortable if he stays there.”

Nodding in agreement, Jeonghan shuffled into the room, shaking Seungcheol awake, but that also woke up Mouse. Joshua hurried in, hearing them both grumble and whine at the disturbance. Quietly, the second oldest managed to get their leader up while Joshua tried to keep Mouse from fully waking up.

She latched onto him like a koala, letting Joshua lift her up and get carried to her bedroom. Mouse muttered a goodnight to Seungcheol on the way out of the room but her head was nestled into his neck.

“Let’s get you into bed.” He whispered, pulling the blankets back but she whined and held on tighter. “Sweetheart, come on, I’m covered in sweat. I need to shower.”

Mouse pulled away quickly, staring up at him with wide eyes but furrowed brows. “What did you just say?”

“That I need to shower?”

“No, the first thing.”

Joshua’s eyebrows furrowed together, confused. “That I’m covered in sweat?”

“No-” Mouse sighed, rubbing her eyes tiredly. “What did you call me?”

“...Sweetheart?”

“Yeah! That! You’ve never called me a pet name before.”

“Bullshit, yes I have.”

Jeonghan’s laugh made his way to Joshua’s ears. “No you haven’t, not once.”

Cocking his head to the side, Joshua thought back, running quickly through handfuls of conversations he has had with his girlfriend. There had to be- wait…no, he really didn’t call her a single pet name.

“Oh.” He blinked, coming to the realization.

“Yeah.” Mouse fully let him go, crawling under the covers. “Both of you shower, you woke me up and I want to sleep through the night.”

Joshua scoffed a laugh and stole a kiss to her lips. “Yes, ma’am.”

[DJ Leaf Blower Fanclub] {Yoyojun 11:19 AM} Who changed the GC name? {Yunhooooe 11:35 AM} Not me {Hyeonie 11:41 AM} Same, I blame Chan or Woo {WooBoo 11:59 AM} It was me Anyways, sluts, who wants to go out?

You peeked down at your phone, one arm linked with Sona’s as you strolled through the grocery store aisles. She had stopped by and practically dragged you from your home to ‘ get some fresh air, sun, and food’ .

“Who’s that?” Sona raised a brow, unlinking your arms to get something off the shelf to her side.

“99 line chat.” You sighed at the near continuous notifications. “They want to go out – or at least Woo does.”

“Are you going to join?” The question had you already saying no internally.

Shaking your head, you snatched something off the shelf and tossed it in your basket, a bag of expensive chocolate. “Nah, not feeling it.”

[To DJ Leaf Blower Fanclub 12:05 PM] I’m out, no thanks. Have fun without me. Sorry guys. {BunBin 12:06 PM} Boing, come on, Mo. {Hyeonie 12:06 PM} Please don’t leave me alone with them {WooBoo 12:07 PM} Us? Don’t leave us alone with her, she’ll kill us. {Channie 12:08 PM} Mouse come on. You haven’t left the house in days.

“And that is where I mute the chat.” You tapped away before sliding your phone into your shoulder bag.

Sona questioned if you needed anything else but you had a nearly full basic and you let her lead you towards the registers. You were thankful to her, really, if someone ever walked too close, she placed herself between you and the random. Her head was on a constant swivel and beneath the sweatpants and oversized sweatshirts, she concealed a gun.

Once through the line and out the doors, Sona spoke up.

“So why aren’t you agreeing to meet with a group of trained killers that are your friends?” She closed the car door behind her, getting the car turned on.

“Because I don’t wanna go out?”

“Mouse,” Sona rolled her eyes, looking over unimpressed at the answer. “You’d have more guns and knives there than with me.”

You pushed out a deep breath, buckling your seatbelt. “I’m just not feeling it. Can we just get home? Please?”

The apartment was silent when you arrived back. You were going to head up to the house, but something urgent came up for the oldest three and multiple of the others were covering things for them. Staying at your apartment was your best bet and you wouldn’t know what to do if you were truly alone in that house.

While you could have cooked with things you had in your fridge, you decided to order food, informing the doormen to deliver it up to you once it was checked. You were thankful as well for them too, having the entire building staffed by SVT personnel that were kept up to date with need to know information.

You sat curled under a blanket in the corner of the couch, your favorite take out on your lap. The TV was playing a random rerun but you were focused on your phone, going through the abundance of Tik Toks multiple of the guys sent you and some of 99 line members.

A knock had you lifting your head, confused at the intrusion to your quiet. Another knock, louder than the last, harder, and quiet murmurs heard just beyond the door had you curious.

Moving to stand, you placed your food aside on the coffee table, grumbling quietly until you reached the door. Standing on your tiptoes to peer through the peephole, you hit your head against the door as you unlocked it, pulling the door open.

“I told you guys I’m-”

Pushing past you, Wooyoung and Yeonjun skipped in, bright and loud as always. Now that you could see them and take them in properly, they all wore what you assumed was lounge or pajama outfits, a few with pillows in hand. The rest of the 99 line, Chan included, stood at the doorway, bags of snacks and small, apologetic smiles on their faces.

“They said if all of us couldn’t go out then we wouldn’t.” Yunho bowed his head, rubbing the back of his neck. He bowed his head once more when you moved aside to let them in.

“Then Chan said to come to you, Mo.�� Changbin gave you a pat on the shoulder as he stepped inside.

“Sorry.” Chan meekly apologized as Gahyeon kissed you on the cheek and skipped inside. “You haven’t gotten out much recently…”

You scoffed but smiled, pulling him into a tight hug. He wrapped you up in his arms, sighing quietly. “It’s okay, bub.”

“Bitch, this place is amazing!” The excited squeak of the other woman in the group was heard, hearing the pitter patter of multiple pairs of feet against the hardwood floors.

“I’m thinking tacos.” Wooyoung said to San, sitting on your kitchen island. “Mo, do you want tacos?”

Closing and locking the door after finishing your hug with Chan, you moved over to the kitchen, shaking your head. “I kinda already ate. Order what you want.”

“AKA, order you some so you don’t steal our shit, got it.” Mingi snickered, opening your fridge. “Alcohol?”

“Bottom cabinet to the right of you. I only have wine right now though.”

He cringed, pushing his glasses up. “Woo, add fireball to the list, and maybe tequila.”

Typing away on his phone – or you thought it was Changbin’s from the phone case –, Wooyoung kicked his feet, probably placing an order. He had the phone passed around so everyone could get what they wanted off a delivery app. Chan called down to let the doormen know things were coming, along with the second separate delivery of alcohol.

Your little group already started getting comfortable on the couch, blankets and pillows thrown about to settle in. Chan and Gahyeon were at both your sides once you sat down while they argued with the rest to figure out the next step of the evening. You stayed quiet, chuckling at their attempts as negotiation.

“Horror movie drinking games?” Yeonjun suggested, looking at the group.

“You, San, and Hyeon won’t last with how little you can drink.” You laughed, feeling a hit to your arm from the mentioned woman. “What? San taps out at two, you get clingy, and Yeonjun can’t stay away and gets sentimental!”

“And you,” Chan nudged you, “Don’t know how to keep your mouth shut. Ms. I’ve worn heels higher than your dick size .”

They caused an uproar of laughter and you covered your face, trying to control the blush creeping up your cheeks. “I can’t believe I said that out loud and challenged him after.”

“It’s okay, Mouse, you won’t shut up to begin with.” That had you tossing a pillow across the way, aimed at Wooyoung’s face.

“This is my apartment, you know.”

“Okay, and? I ordered tacos for everyone.”

“Yeah, on my credit card.” Changbin rolled his eyes.

You don’t really…remember a lot after all the alcohol and food got devoured. Drinking games started rather quickly and it got loud first.

Cracking your eyes open, you groaned at the headache that plagued you. It felt like a hammer was beating rhythmically into your eyes. The curtains were open and that wasn’t helping the massive hangover you were sporting-

Wait.

When did you get into bed last night?

Lifting your head, you were met with Gahyeon cuddling up into your chest and another body pressed against your back. As you looked around, wincing at the light, you were definitely in your bed and Yeosang was back to back with you, knocked out cold. You would see someone was on the other side of Gahyeon but the blanket over the person didn’t let you know who it was.

Though extremely slow, you managed to remove yourself from Gahyeon and stumble out of bed and shut the curtains to spare the rest when they got up. You made your way to the bathroom for pain killers, shivering at the cold tile beneath your feet. Despite the lights being off in the bathroom, your reflection looked pale, maybe a little green but you weren’t feeling sick, thankfully. You were glad you could hold your alcohol better than in college.

Creeping your way out of the room, you weren’t too surprised to find the apartment almost completely silent, but the aroma of coffee floated you to the kitchen to find Chan awake. He was sitting on the floor, wrapped in a blanket, with one of your mugs in hand. Almost all the lights were off except for the one above the stove. As you shuffled closer, you noted most of the others sprawled out, tucked comfortably on the couch.

“Hey.” You whispered, quietly pouring yourself a cup of coffee and joined him on the floor. “I have a table, you know?”

“Floor cold. Head hurt. Don’t wanna move.” The words were slow and he punctuated it with a long gulp of coffee.

“Do you know what time it is?” You had forgotten your phone – or well, you didn’t know where it was in the apartment currently.

Weakly, he shook his head. “No clue. Don’t care.”

You scooted closer, resting your head on his shoulder. “We really overdid it. I’m surprised my place is clean after a blackout.”

Chan huffed a sorry excuse for a laugh, resting his cheek on your head. “You shit talked with Mingi while you cleaned up all the trash. That’s really all I can remember that late.”

“I vaguely remember everything from the first movie and some from the beginning of the second, but everything after that is fuzzy. I know we finished it but there was a lot of alcohol.”

“You went toe to toe with Yunho and Changbin. I’m not even surprised.”

Sitting (kinda) comfortably, you let the painkillers and coffee do particle work on the headache that still pounded. Then…both of your stomach grumbled and you managed to share a quiet laugh.

You reluctantly got up, tiptoeing around the room until you located your phone half under San’s sleeping form. He stirred when you moved his arm but further cuddled into one of your couch pillows. With Chan’s help, you pretty much ordered a whole buffet of brunch for everyone, minus the mimosas after the rager last night.

As you waited, you finally went through any messages from the night and morning.

[Threeway] {Hannie 2:41 AM} I know it’s late, love, but we aren’t going to be home until tomorrow evening. {Shua 2:46 AM} I heard Chan went over, hopefully you slept well, Sweetheart. {Hannie 10:31 AM} I miss my Mouse. I say we order in and stay in bed. Actually I demand it.

Shaking your head, you smiled, typing out a reply.

[To Threeway 11:44AM] Hi, goodmorning, I just got up a bit ago. Chan ended up bringing all of 99 line here and we…drank a lot. Ordered us some brunch so we could at least eat. I’ll see you later. I miss you both.

Almost instantly, they both replied.

{Hannie 11:45 AM} Ah, my baby, make sure to take care of yourself until we get home. {Shua 11:46 AM} I’m glad you had a good night. I was worried. I missed you too, I’ll see you soon.

“You guys are cringe.” Chan read over your shoulder, sipping his coffee.

“You’re just mad you are single.” You elbowed him gently, and shook your head. “Please start waking them in the living room and I’ll get the three in my room and whoever took the couch in the game room.”

He gave a thumbs up as you shuffled off to your room. Your first stop was the bathroom, fetching the large bottle of painkillers everyone would definitely need.

Stepping towards the side of your bed, you smiled softly at the peaceful look on Yeosang’s face. You shook him gently, trying not to spook him but he got startled, head whipping up, only for a painful groan to follow. You apologized and hushed him, taking out a few pills and handing them over. He gave you a puzzled look, like he was trying to turn on his brain and understand what you were offering him. Once he understood, or you thought he did, Yeosang sat up and downed the pills you offered. Rounding the bed, you silently chuckled seeing Changbin curled beside Gahyeon. Unlike Yeosang, they didn’t startle but they whined in pain. You handed them some painkillers as well before letting the three of them know food would be arriving soon.

Leaving them to fully come to consciousness, you found Yeonjun in your game room. He, surprisingly, was awake when you walked in, mumbling a good morning and thanking you for the medicine. You got him up and into the living room, just in time to see the others at least awake. The bottle of painkillers was passed around to the rest of the group as Chan made everyone a cup of coffee, pulling out the sugar and creamer.

No one said much, not even when your sleepover buddies left your room to join the masses. You made quick work getting plates and utensils for when the buffet arrived, being careful to not make too much clinking noise and not wanting to waste too much time getting them fed.

You moved quickly when there was a knock at the door, eyes wide when you saw three men from the front desk and Sona carrying multiple bags of food between them all. Apologies fell from your lips as you took them one after another and placed them down but the four brushed your words off. The men bowed before they walked off, however you stopped Sona before she left. You raised a brow at how dolled up she looked for a Saturday morning.

“Got a date?” You asked, only for her to shake her head and attempt to wave you off.

“Date? No-” She frowned, averting her eyes. “I’m going to brunch with Lex.”

“Oh.” You stopped yourself from laughing, watching as a blush crept up her neck and to her cheeks. “Ooh~”

“Don’t-” She stuttered, pointing an accusing finger at you, cringing and begging. “Don’t do that-”

“So we like her?” You wiggled your eyebrows, smirking. “We like like Lex?”

“Mouse, I hate you. I’m gonna be late.” Sona left in a hurry and you closed the door, knowing you’d be annoying her soon about it.

Chan and Yeosang, two of the best boys around, unpacked a majority of the food with a line of hungover and hungry killers. Yeah, that was a funny statement to think, seeing it was funnier with their rumbled clothes and tousled bedhead. The moment the two moved (after grabbing their own plates), food was being taken and distributed and conversations started to flow. You grabbed food last and Yunho saved you a space for a chair so no one took up too much room.

“Ah fuck, I forgot I had a meeting this morning.” Wooyoung placed his head down on the table beside his plate, phone in hand. “Hongjoong is gonna kill me. It was supposed to be with a distributor.”

“Give me your phone.” You held out your hand. “I can make him not be mad.”

“How do you plan on doing that?” Mingi questioned as Wooyoung handed the phone over, Hangjoon’s contact up on the screen.

“Easy, Hongjoong liked me, and I can be a pretty decent liar.” You cleared your throat, taking a deep breath. Dialing the number, you motioned with a finger to your lips for everyone to stay quiet.

“Wooyoung, I’m going to kick your ass, This meeting was-”

You let out a shaky breath, making your tone sad and slow. “Hongjoong, it’s Mouse.”

“Mo- Where is Wooyoung?” He sounded concerned under his annoyance.

“He is here. It’s my fault he wasn’t up in time, I’m sorry- Wooyoung and everyone showed up yesterday because they wanted to cheer me up with everything going on-” You fake sniffled like you were crying and continued to ramble. “They stayed up late trying to calm me down and get me to sleep-”

“Hey, okay-” His tone was panicked. “Don’t worry about it. I’ll lie and reschedule it. Tell Wooyoung we’ll talk later-”

“Please don’t be mad at him,” You pleaded, a shake to your voice. Everyone’s eyes were wide. “It’s my fault, please don’t get angry at him-”

“Fine, fine, I won’t, just- get them back here soon-”

“I will, I’m sorry.”

Hongjoong said goodbye before hanging up and you shook your head, clearing your throat and placing Wooyoung’s phone down on the table. All pairs of eyes were set on you and you went back to eating.

“She’s a witch.” Changbin whispered, jaw dropped.

Wooyoung looked at his phone, astonished by your entire skit. “Mouse, I know you have two boyfriends, but I think I’m in love with you.”

You laughed, throwing your head back. “It was nothing! Not a problem.”

“How were you not a part of an underground group before this?” San asked, staring blankly.

“You aren’t the first to ask me that. I blame the foster care system for that.” You let your shoulders shake as you continued to chuckle. “Eat, come on, we all drank too much last night.”

“Okay, mom .” Yeosang snorted, going back to his food.

99 line left not long after everyone finished eating and helped clean up. Anything left over was taken with them or quickly finished from their containers. You told Chan he could stay if he wanted, but he inevitably went to the penthouse and most likely knocked out. They all made promises on the way out the door to check in more and keep an eye out and you hugged each of them tightly as they left.

You, though sleepy, managed to clean up the rest of the living room, change your bedsheets, and two full loads of laundry before your boyfriends came back.

It was nearly five in the evening when you heard the door to your home open and the thud of a bag against the floor. You jumped up from the couch in the game room, playing one of Wonwoo’s games since he shared his account, and nearly sprinted into the living room. You collided into the two of them, arms wrapping around both of their necks and pulling them close to you, sighing out happily to have them near.

“I missed you both.” You took a deep breath, closing your eyes.

Jeonghan tiredly laughed, placing a kiss on your temple, one arm wrapping loosely around your waist. “It was only a night and I wished you were there.”

“He would not stop complaining.” Joshua teased, running a hand up your spine to keep you close. “Not that I was much better.”

“I need all my missed attention and more food.” You pulled away, smiling lovingly up at them, giving each a short kiss. “What shall we order?”

It took all of ten minutes to decide on what to order, only to usher them off to shower and get out of their work clothes. You insisted on them cleaning up so you could finish getting the room clean despite them wanting to help, only to cite Jeonghan’s text from the morning of wanting to just stay in bed. You could see how tired they were, both probably stayed up all night to get whatever work done.

You pulled up a streaming service on your TV in the bedroom while one showered in the ensuite and the other in the bathroom in the hallway. The blankets were just pulled from the dyer, which Jeonghan would greatly appreciate, and you also had Joshua’s favorite fluffy blanket on his side of the bed.

By the time both were showered and ready for a chill evening, the food had arrived and you set everything up on the bed to devour. One movie turned into two, along with a change from you cuddling one or the other to both scooting in closer, two pairs of hands on you. Their warmth was always welcoming, not suffocating as some people could get from such proximity. Joshua had his arm under you, your head resting on his shoulder while Jeonghan was pressed into your side, head resting over your chest.

The peace was blissful, calm compared to the chaos of the previous evening. Jeonghan’s eyes were droopy, barely able to stay open, and his breathing was slowing. Turning your head showed your second significant other in a similar exhausted state that he was almost losing the fight to.

But the vibration of your phone pulled you away. You tugged it from your sweatshirt pocket, seeing Cheol’s contact name lighting up the screen. Hushing Jeonghan’s whine, you answered, speaking softly.

“Hello?”

“Did you talk to Hongjoong earlier?”

You had to stop yourself from laughing, hiding your face in Jeonghan’s hair. “Yeah, I did.”

“What did you do to make him feel bad? He called me saying that he was concerned.” Thankfully, he sounded amused.

“Had to get Wooyoung out of trouble by pulling some heart strings and using the fact that he likes me as a friend to my advantage.”

A tired chuckle was heard and you melted into bed. “Just don’t do it again, okay?”

“Cheol, you and I both know that I can’t promise shit.”

He laughed louder, bright and cute. “ That’s my girl. Have a good night.”

Joshua stole the device from your hand once the call ended, turning off the TV and snuggling into you. “What was that about?”

You snickered, kissing the top of Jeonghan’s head then kissing Joshua sweetly on the lips. “Just played a little trick on Hongjoong to save Wooyoung earlier. Nothing to worry about.”

“I have zero trust in that.” He tugged the blankets up under your chin, even making sure the man on your other side was warm and cozy.

“Maybe you and Hannie are just bad influences.”

“Never said we were good ones either.”

You let him get comfy, his other arm coming down to wrap around your waist just above Jeonghan’s. “Go to sleep.”

“That is the plan.” He murmured and you followed behind quickly thereafter.

Tag List is Open! Comment on the BSH Master List to get added!

Tag List:

@unlikelysublimekryptonite @iiaweirdo @aurorajoye @gaslysainz @sarcasticsagittarius1998 @vanteel @clownprincehoeshi @kpopandbookschild @honeybunchcrunch @black-swan-blog27 @peachie-wonu @kpopsimpsblog

(this tag list not working is kicking my ass, I'M SORRY)

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miss-oranje-disco-dancer · 3 months ago

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when did we start making everything rechargeable and then acting like that's so much better? i assume it's better for the environment which is all fine and good (tho we could've had something more fun for consumers and practical and environmentally friendly like public transit....) but people act like this new thing is so cool and we love using it bc it's rechargeable! no???!!! i want it to have batteries!!! bc guess what? if it dies!! then i have to wait for it to charge and my two most important possessions are rechargeable !! (vibrator and ps4 controller) and like we still have an xbox one and those controllers have batteries so did the switch ones .... (my computer mouse needed new batteries and i didn't want to take them out of the tv remote), and that's the thing about batteries that's so great is: even if you don't have any new ones, you just take them out of the tv remote and put them back later !!!!!!!!!1

similarly, wtf is with the new iphone charger. i had to get a new phone (i got my old one in early 2021) and now this one just plugs into my computer?? what about the wall?

#liz thoughts

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masteraqua · 6 months ago

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Hi! Out of curiosity, how does it feel to play Kingdom Hearts on the steam deck? I was considering getting a steam deck but I’m not sure how good the controls would actually feel playing Kingdom Hearts. (I’m used to PlayStation controls) Like, (is any of this for real or not-) is playing with the buttons and joysticks near the top of the screen feel comfortable?

hi! i'm happy to report that it's been very comfortable to play. 😄 i played it for roughly 6 hours straight the other day while traveling and didn't have any issues. because the steam deck screen is so big, it can just sit in your lap so you don't have to support the weight of it or crane your neck at all, it's really nice. i suppose my hands started to get a little tired after about the fifth hour of playing, but that wasn't due to the position of the buttons.

i'm not sure if you saw my post about the battery life, but i was shocked by how long i was able to play before i needed to charge it. i straight up forgot to even check the battery until the fourth hour, and i didn't pull the charger out until about 5.5 hours. this was with kh1 and i haven't tested the others. i expect that won't be the case for kh3.

the one thing i do want to mention is the button mapping. this isn't a criticism of the hardware so much as a note for anyone whose brain works the same way as mine. so, the steam deck natively uses the same button configuration as xbox, where the A button is at the bottom of the keypad, like this

however, there's a toggle in the system settings called Use Nintendo Button Layout, which reverses the functionality of the A and B buttons and the X and Y buttons in order to operate more like the nintendo switch. i have this toggle turned on because it feels more comfortable and familiar to me when i'm playing in handheld mode. therefore, the "A" button is at the right of the keypad.

but when the deck is docked, i use a ps4 controller to play games and operate the system, and as i'm sure you know, the X button is at the bottom of the keypad.

what this means for kingdom hearts is that the attack button keeps moving. 🙃 every time i switch between handheld and docked modes, i will inevitably swing my keyblade when i meant to jump and jump when i meant to bash something's face in. it's a struggle.

this problem won't affect anyone who uses the native button mapping for the deck or anyone who only plays exclusively in one mode (handheld or docked). but i still wanted to mention it. you can also remap the playstation buttons if that helps.

all in all though, i'm a huge fan of the steam deck and i definitely recommend it for kh! portable kh1 has been my dream for YEARS and this experience has really delivered (ugly upscaling notwithstanding). i'll be playing it some more on the train back home tomorrow and i'm so excited <3

btw i also recommend getting the official dock as well because it's nice to have somewhere to set it, but you can also use any third party dock with a USB-C cable if you find something cheaper :)

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hexdsl · 2 years ago

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My desk, right now.

Just thought I would share this.

For those interested the dock is also a wireless phone charger and attached to is my mic, camera and a 2tb SSD and ethernet.

The laptop is an XPS 12 (9315) with 16GB of RAM, 1TB storage and an I7 (1250u.) its shite, don't buy one, but the keyboard and battery are awesome.

I do have mechanical keyboards, but I really like the Logitech mc keys mini. Wireless is nice and it has a similar key feel to my laptop, which means its not jarring to switch between them.

Things on the desk I do recommend:

if you use wireless devices, get a big ol' battery pack and leave it on your desk, its a good solution and when you use a laptop, like i do, you can use it to charge the laptop in the event of a power cut! (Assuming your laptop will charge from USB PD, which mine does)

The kettle.

That dock means I can switch my monitor and all my peripherals between my laptop and steam deck with just one cable and its really very cool! - it also means when i eventually have the spare scratch to buy a top specced MacBook air, all I gotta do is plug it in and I'm ready to do! which is nice.

That google screen thing (nest hub) is way more useful than i expected and when its not doing anything it has a little weather fog on it which i like a lot.

Things I don't recommend:

The laptop. Performance is not as expected. Though for my requirements (good keyboard and long battery life for writing, also wanted as portable as possible) I still think it was a good buy.

The TV. I never really use it. Should it break I won't replace.

Things not pictured:

2 x 1tb USB hard drives, i use for backup and archive.

1 x network attached 2tb storage, as above

Controllers. I use an xbox 'series' controller on my laptop, when i GFN a controller game. I use a PS4 controller on my steam deck. overall, i prefer the Xbox one.

Thanks for reading. Questions welcome.

#battlestation #battletop #laptop #xps #xps13 #setup #desktop

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dandelioninajungle · 1 year ago

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Thoughts what I have had today.

- there should be more green soups. Mexico has the right idea.

- I need to make tacos campechanos

- Yes, I am reading a book about Mexican home cooking

- I feel a trip to the deli that sells actual imported ingredients coming on

- And I’ve ordered Taijin on Amazon. Because they finally deliver it over here. JOY.

- Fruity fruity Sunday time will be happening.

- Before you complain about reading this…imagine what it’s like in my head.

- I can’t believe my brain saw the bottom of the stairs yesterday and thought “let me jump to that”

- Twat

- I am SORE

- My entire right side is fuuuuucked

- Ow me

- I do feel quite sorry for myself

- And then I fell/tripped over an extension lead and fucked one of the phone chargers AND my Xbox controller battery pack charger this morning

- I am soooo coordinated

- Very sexy of me

#thoughts

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ed-jv · 2 years ago

Video

youtube

FH5 - SPRINT DE GRAN PANTANO - 2015 DODGE CHARGER SRT HELLCAT - A 800 - Gameplay PC en ultra 4K

FORZA HORIZON 5

L'aventure Horizon ultime vous attend ! Découvrez le monde ouvert vivant et changeant constamment, situé dans les magnifiques paysages du Mexique, et vibrez au volant de centaines de voitures parmi les plus belles au monde.

Développeur : Playground Games

Éditeur : Xbox Game Studios

Sur PC - XBOX ONE - XBOX SERIES le 9 novembre 2021.

PEGI 3

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sharivers92 · 2 years ago

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I want to share what christmas gifts i got xbox series x remote controller charger, hot wheels unleashed for xbox series x and sonic frontiers for xbox series x i also got nintendo switch online membership card but i'm can't not show that because i was told to never ever show visa gift card, regular card and video game cards they will steal our money if we do that's why i can't not share my nintendo switch online memebership card the only game they didn't have i want it is pac-man world repac for xbox series x that was still hard to found i'm very patience now a days i know most say good things happen when we are patience i don't mind waiting maybe one day i will get pac-man world repac game i want someday i will get it but for now i'm happy and very grateful what i got i actually got sonic frontiers and nintendo switch online membership card is my late christmas gift i got today the last time they didn't have sonic frontiers and nintendo switch memebership card but now they have it that's all i want it to say and share!

#sonic the hedgehog #sonic froniters #xbox #xbox series x #xbox series x charger #hot wheels #hot wheels unleashed

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maximuswolf · 1 month ago

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If the "Apocalypse" happens what console would you hunt for?

If the "Apocalypse" happens what console would you hunt for? Let's say a nuclear fallout or zombie apocalypse happens , the internet is done but that doesn't mean consoles are dead ( well I'm guessing ps4/xbox one gen onwards would be pretty done) .For must convinces portable would the ideal loot . I would go for a Nintendo 3DS/ DS and get some Pokemon or some JRPGS . PSP wouldn't bad also but I guess finding games would be harder. Maybe you are lucky and find a bootleg emulator handheld with a fat SD card but I guess thinking more accurate it would be hard to find power to always keep it charge . I guess maybe go for Gameboy advance and make it work for a few years with batteries or maybe you are resourceful and find a solar powered charger to power up does USB based handheld consoles. Submitted October 27, 2024 at 04:45AM by facubkc https://ift.tt/vr5PlU4 via /r/gaming

#reddit

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govindhtech · 3 months ago

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IFA 2024, MSI Displays AI Era Of Computing Innovations

IFA 2024

MSI will attend IFA 2024 on September 6th as the global leader in AI PC, gaming, content creation, business & productivity, and AIoT solutions. MSI will display its whole lineup of cutting-edge devices at IFA 2024. This much-anticipated line includes motherboards, peripherals, graphics cards, displays, laptops, desktop computers, and AI products.

“MSI is very excited to meet you and showcase they latest AI technology at IFA 2024 in Berlin,” said Sam Chern, vice president of marketing at MSI. The world is changing quickly due to artificial intelligence, and we intend to provide professionals, creators, and gamers with unique and all-inclusive MSI products that will provide a more intelligent experience.

IFA Berlin 2024

Come see MSI at Berlin’s IFA 2024! You’re welcomed!

At IFA 2024, MSI is excited to see friends and partners in the media and industry. A vast array of innovative items and technology will be demonstrated by knowledgeable staff members who are available to answer your inquiries. Whatever your passion, MSI will be happy to show you the newest technology, cutting-edge AI, and goods that will transform your life, whether it is in AI, business, gaming, productivity, or the home. See you in Berlin!

The IFA Berlin International Consumer Electronics Exhibition has a remarkable history since 1924. It is a lighthouse in the industry. IFA continues to be one of the trade shows that has a significant influence on worldwide PC buyers, distributors, and retailers by giving them access to a platform that provides all-inclusive industry solutions.

Prestige – Leading Next Level AI+ Business & Productivity Laptops with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2)

Three sizes are available for the Prestige series laptops: 13-, 14-, and 16-inch models. The entire Prestige series boasts enormous batteries, extended battery life, ultra-light bodies, and the newest Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2). For instance, the entire Prestige line now offers a longer battery life than the previous model, with all sizes able to offer a higher productivity of up to 20 hours. It has also been improved to a 5-megapixel webcam, which allows for better online meetings and live streaming.

Claw 8 AI+

The First Windows 11 Gaming Handheld Using Intel Core Ultra Processors (Series 2) is the Claw 8 AI+.

The world’s first Windows 11 gaming handheld with Intel Core Ultra processors (Series 2), MSI’s Claw 8 AI+, will make its premiere at IFA 2024 and go on sale at the end of the year. Better energy efficiency, an additional Thunderbolt 4 USB-C connector, upgraded LB/RB buttons, a bigger battery, and a lighter wall-mounted charger are all highlights of the redesigned Claw 8 AI+. Based on customer feedback, MSI has improved these specifications. With a one-month free trial of Xbox Game Pass included, owners of the anticipated most sophisticated 8-inch gaming handheld, Claw 8 AI+, will be able to play well-known AAA titles. Watch this space for the release date!Image credit to MSI

EDITION Graphics Card for Warcraft

RTX 4070 SUPER 12G GAMING SLIM GeForce Graphics Card for World of Warcraft Edition

In celebration of the game’s 20th anniversary and the release of The War Within, MSI is pleased to announce its partnership with Blizzard Entertainment for the limited-edition GeForce RTX 4070 SUPER 12G GAMING SLIM World of Warcraft EDITION. Users can mix and match the ten interchangeable puzzle-style magnetic backplates, which are inspired by well-known expansions, to create an epic look that is uniquely their own.

Unveils Revolutionary Gaming Setup – AI Gaming Desktop and Gaming Monitor Redefine Performance

The MPG Infinite X3 AI and the MPG 321CURX QD-OLED, two components of MSI’s state-of-the-art gaming setup, will go on sale in Q4 2024. The MPG Infinite X3 AI boasts the newest Intel processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series graphics, promising a significant improvement in performance and AI-enhanced features. The AI ENGINE from MSI modifies the environment for entertainment, gaming, and meetings.

In terms of cooling technology, it blends cutting-edge AI-driven cooling algorithms with MSI’s 360mm liquid cooling system to provide ideal thermal management even under demanding workloads. matched with MSI’s first curved 32″ 240Hz QD-OLED, the MPG 321CURX QD-OLED, which has a 1700R curvature and employs bespoke heatsinks and graphene sheet for effective and silent cooling. In addition, the monitor has a three-year burn-in guarantee and MSI OLED Care 2.0. This premium combo provides players with an unmatched, worry-free gaming experience.Image credit to MSI

Modern MD272UPSW, Modern AM273Q/ QP AI & Cubi NUC AI Series – Unveiling the First Smart Monitor, AI All-in-One PC & Mini PC

The first Smart Monitor from MSI with integrated Google Assistant and Chromecast is the Modern MD272UPSW. It saves power and improves convenience by enabling you to watch videos without using your primary PC. With its small, 0.826-liter chassis, the Cubi NUC series micro PC is easy to install behind a display. With an emphasis on security, this potent and environmentally friendly small PC provides optional Intel vPro technology. With its 27″ WQHD IPS panel, the newest Intel Core Ultra Processor, and the AI boost NPU, the modern AM273Q/ QP AI series confirms its reputation as an AI All-in-One PC.

Remodel the Convenience of Installation with EZ DIY Motherboards

Ryzen 9000 processor compatibility and stylish designs define the new MSI X870 motherboards. These EZ DIY motherboards redefine installation convenience with its updated screwless M.2 Shield Frozr, EZ M.2 Clip II, EZ PCIe Release, and EZ Antenna features.

The New Liquid Cooling System for the MAG CORELIQIOD I Series

The UNI Bracket was first used by MSI as their liquid cooler, and it has several DIY-friendly characteristics that make installation easier. Dust removal is made simple by the pre-installed fans on the radiator and the cable cover, which also guarantee a neat and orderly appearance inside your PC case.

EZ DIY Motherboards – Redefine Installation Convenience

The MEG Ai1600T PCIE5 satisfies ATX 3.1 requirements with a 2x total power excursion and a 3x GPU power excursion, making it future-ready for use in AI computing. Its high efficiency conversion rate and construction with superior titanium materials guarantee steady and reliable power delivery. The SiC-MOSFET with interleaved PFC in the PSU improves power correction efficiency and stability.

VELOX 300R AIRFLOW PZ by MPG

The 160 mm fan design of MSI’s exclusive dual layer blades gives the MPG VELOX 300R AIRFLOW PZ two distinct purposes: the outside blades improve stability, while the interior blades concentrate airflow. The fan extends airflow farther than traditional blade designs by synchronizing the outer and inner blades.

Next-Generation MSI Gear Series

MSI Gear introduces new peripherals with lightweight designs, ultra-low latency, and cross-platform connectivity that are intended to provide comfort and performance during extended gaming sessions. A flawless gaming experience is ensured by the portfolio, which includes STRIKE wireless keyboards for an unmatched typing sensation, VERSA mouse for flexible and accurate control, FORCE controllers for fast reactions, and the MAESTRO headset for immersive music.

MSI DATAMAG PORTABLE 40Gbps/20Gbps MAGNETIC SSD

Up to 4TB of storage and 40Gbps transfer rates are provided by MSI’s DATAMAG 40Gbps/20Gbps Magnetic Portable SSD, which fits neatly onto iPhones and other devices. This robust aluminum alloy housing, together with the PHISON U21 USB 4.0 controller, guarantees effective cooling and dependable operation on iPhone, iPad, PC, Mac, Android devices, cameras, and gaming consoles.

The BE Light Roamii Mesh System

The most recent Roamii BE Lite Mesh System from MSI, which uses WiFi 7 technology, is on display. With more AI-based real-time applications and WiFi 7-compatible products anticipated to hit the market in 2024, Roamii BE Lite expands the reach of your easy-to-manage, ultra-fast WiFi network across your house. Additionally, MSI FortiSecu provides constant cyber threat prevention for all linked devices.

Business-use MSI Hyper 180 Dual DC Charger

With a limited charging period, MSI has introduced its first DC fast charger, intended for use in public parking lots, charging stations, and interstate service zones. It has a twin-gun design and can charge at up to 180 kW. One gun can charge at maximum speed, while the dual guns can dynamically alter power based on the vehicle. It has three connector options (CCS1, CCS2, and NACS) that are appropriate for different EV models.

The swing arm design of the cable management increases the usable distance and IFA 2024 prevents cable dragging, which can lead to damage and dirt buildup and shorten service life. It improves operating efficiency by supporting the charge management system’s OCPP1.6 J communication protocol, which enables networked control. Additionally, it facilitates plug and charge ISO 15118 identification to improve drivers’ ease of payment. It can go into eco mode while not in use to use less standby power. The 10.1-inch touchscreen, RFID cards, mobile app, and 21.5-inch screen are all part of the user interface. The latter is used to insert advertisements in order to generate extra cash.

MSI EZgo Portable Charger (For Home/Business Use) and MSI Eco Series AC Charger with 3-phase Power

With a 1.8-inch display, replaceable power cords for 8 countries/areas, and up to 11 kW of charging capacity, the MSI EZgo is a travel and home device that requires no installation.

Dashboard for MSI E-Connect (EMS)

MSI E-Connect enables operators and resident managers to monitor and control via cloud or on-premises connections in order to maximize power efficiency and station management. Among the features it provides are dynamic load balancing, membership management, license plate authorization, time-of-use pricing, and cross-system interaction with personalized API services.