#yunhyeong

[kpop-bbg]

[maximura]

Can I make a really sad nostalgic post about IKON again? As some of you may or may not know, they used to be my bias group. The events of 2019 changed the entire fandom overnight. I was not a Hanbin solo stan but he was so important to the group that everything sort of imploded after he left. I call it the Long Death because that's what it feels like. I know the members are still active and working, which gives me a lot of comfort, but it will always have this bittersweet edge to it all.

I got so sad today when I realised just how many old ikon tumblrs simply stopped posting or the users made a conscious decision to leave both the fandom and tumblr. It's seriously so sad looking at the time stamps of their last posts.

Anyway, if you are/were an ikon fan, I hope you are having a good day today and it would be nice to reminisce with anyone who wants to cry about it, haha.

[bornfreeone-kiss]

[soundsofcicadas]

Yours | Stalker Yunhyeong AU

Pairing: Yunhyeong x Reader

Genre: Stalker AU

Count: 1469

Warnings: 18+ (Mature Readers Only): This is a one-shot inspired by the TV series You and includes themes of stalking, manipulation, emotional and physical abuse, violence, implied smut, and a tiny bit of profanity.

Yunhyeong is your charming café owner. He's also a hopeless romantic—but there’s more to him than meets the eye.

Love.

What would life even mean without it? How would the world keep turning without love?

That’s exactly what Yunhyeong was thinking that morning as he stood behind the counter of his café, watching customers come and go. From the outside, you’d think he had it all together—a young, successful business owner running the only café in a small, quiet town. No competition. Steady income. He had his own car, a cozy apartment, and even if he didn’t finish college, he never saw it as a failure. His mother had taught him to cook and bake, and over time, he got really good at it. Everything he’d been through, everything he came from—it all led him here.

The place was called Smile Café—fitting, because that’s what people saw in him. A cheerful guy. Friendly. Kind. Polite to elders. The kind of guy you bring home to your parents. So it wasn’t surprising that he had plenty of admirers too.

But none of them were her.

None of them were you.

You were the last customer to walk in before he closed up for the night. And in his eyes, you were perfect. Despite looking like a total mess—mascara smudged, eyes puffy—you were still beautiful. Like something fragile and broken you’d want to keep safe in your hands.

You stepped up to the counter and cleared your throat. “Do you have any donuts left?”

Yunhyeong glanced at the nearly empty display. “Yeah. Last box, actually. Lucky.”

Your voice was faint. “I’ll take it.”

He packed the donuts carefully. You looked like you hadn’t eaten all day. He didn’t say anything, just made you a coffee and placed it beside the box.

You narrowed your eyes a little.  “I didn’t order this.”

“It’s on the house,” he said, offering a small smile. “You look like you need it.”

You didn’t smile back, but there was something in the way you looked at him—like no one had been kind to you in a while. 

“Thanks,” you muttered, clutching the box like it was the only thing holding you together.

That was it. That moment. That look. That voice.

At last, Yunhyeong found the love he’d been looking for—the missing piece in his life.

You started coming more often after that.

Always alone. Always near closing. Sometimes with messy hair, sometimes freshly showered. Always tired, always quiet. You never said much, but Yunhyeong didn’t need words. He learned to read you. A furrowed brow meant don’t ask questions. A hoodie pulled tight around your face meant rough night. A new bruise on your wrist—he noticed. You didn’t think anyone would.

But he saw everything.

And that’s when it started.

Following you after you left. Just to make sure you got home safe, he told himself. But he didn’t stop there.

He followed you to work—a dingy pub on the edge of town. You worked the counter, serving drinks and forcing a fake smile while drunk assholes flirted with you.

Until, he followed you home. You lived alone. The hallway was empty, dead quiet except for the buzz of the dim lights overhead. Yunhyeong pulled his cap lower, his hoodie casting a shadow over his face. No one would notice him.

He stopped at your apartment door. You were out—he had seen you leave an hour ago.

Without thinking twice, he leaned in close. His fingers worked the lock like it was second nature. A sharp, soft click, and the door gave way. He slipped inside, shutting it carefully behind him. 

Your apartment was small, tidy, smelled like laundry and cheap lavender candles. He walked through it like it was a museum—every book, every photo, every note on the fridge. Then he stepped into the bedroom.

That’s where he saw it—a polaroid taped to your mirror. You were with a guy, his hands around your waist, lips pressed to your cheek.

So you weren’t alone after all. 

Yunhyeong’s blood turned cold. But it was nothing compared to what he felt a week later. He was hiding across the street, watching the guy from the photo—your boyfriend—scream at you outside the pub.  He gripped your arm tight, shoving you afterward.

It didn’t take long for him to trail your boyfriend. He found him with another woman—laughing, hands all over each other as they disappeared into a cheap motel.

Yunhyeong clenched his jaw so hard he thought it might crack.

It was almost closing time when you stumbled into the café again.

Drunk.

Slurring. Makeup smeared. You leaned on the counter and gave him a playful smile. “You’re always here,” you said.

He caught you before you tripped.

“Let me take you home.”

He walked you to your apartment, helped you up the stairs, and found your keys in your bag. You leaned on him the whole way. Once inside, you sank into the couch, eyes half-closed.

“You’re… really sweet,” you mumbled. “You’re the only one who’s… not a fucking liar.”

You became friends after that. Texts. Inside jokes. Shared silences. But Yunhyeong wanted more.

He thought about telling you everything—about your boyfriend, about what he had seen. About how you deserved better.

That moment finally came. At night, he sat in his car across the street, watching your window, the words rehearsed in his head. He just had to find the right timing. Then the lights in your apartment went dark… and a dim glow flickered to life. Through the hidden audio feeds he had secretly planted, he heard it—the laughter, the moans, the sounds of you with him, echoing in his earphones. He didn’t have to see it. He already knew. Your shadows moved behind the curtain, a cruel silhouette he couldn’t look away from.

It gutted him.

He almost drove away for good.

But then came the screaming.

Another night. Same place. But this time, it was different. Your voice wasn’t just angry. It was scared. Panicked.

He didn’t think. He moved.

He undid the lock of your apartment door the same way he had the first time he broke in. He walked fast to the bedroom, where he found you—pinned beneath your boyfriend, his hands tight around your neck, his voice low and threatening. You were crying, telling him to stop.

Yunhyeong didn’t remember picking up the lamp. Just the weight of it. Just the sound it made when it hit your boyfriend’s skull.

Blood everywhere.

You screamed. Not at Yunhyeong. Just at the world, at your messed up life.

He dropped the lamp. Breathing hard. Heart racing.

And then… silence.

“How… how did you get in?” you asked, eyes wide. “How did you know I needed—”

He didn’t answer.

He didn’t need to.

You both cleaned the scene together.

Bleach. Garbage bags. Gloves. Quiet coordination, like you’d done this before. Like instinct. You both dumped the body deep in the woods. Buried it. Never looked back.

The sun was almost up when you made your way back to your apartment with him. You didn’t want him to leave you alone, and he felt the same. Yunhyeong kissed you. It was sloppy at first, then it became desperate, hungry, years of loneliness crashing between you. Clothes hit the floor, forgotten. Hands roamed. Mouths collided. He had wanted you for so long it hurt—and now, you wanted him just as much.

Neither of you talked about your dead boyfriend after that.

Didn’t need to.

Months passed. You two were a couple now. Normal, even. Happy, in your own twisted way.

You left your job at the pub and helped him at his café. Your dead boyfriend was declared missing. The theory was that he escaped, possibly even changed his identity to hide from some shady people he might have had bad dealings with, given his reputation in your town. Or so they thought. The police never became suspicious of you, and without any more leads, it was turning into a cold case.

As for Yunhyeong, old habits die hard. He couldn’t help but still snoop on you.

One night, while you were asleep, he opened your laptop. Just curiosity. Nothing more.

But he had no way of preparing himself for everything he found.

His name.

His socials.

You even found his address.

Photos of him, dozens of them—walking, laughing, working. Helping strangers. His weekend jogs, grocery shopping. Hidden in a folder. Dated before that first night you came into the café.

And there, on an app: real-time cam footage. Videos from inside his apartment.

You had been watching him.

Long before he ever knew you.

He turned to you in the bed, his mouth slightly ajar. You were awake, watching him, amused.

“You didn’t really think you were the only one, did you?”

You moved closer to him, your lips brushing his ear before whispering,

“I’m yours, Yunhyeong. We’re meant for each other.”

[mallrat-trudy]

95z ending fairies

[juhotonin]

maybe just maybe he wanted to see a bartender performance from Jinhwan

[zhaozi]

now drop it to the floor, drop, drop it to the floor then wop, wop, wop, wop

[ki11ingme]

[kontale]

☆ 𓈒 ˙ 𓂃 my angel, you're what haunts me now that you're away 𓈒 ˙ 𓂃 💌

[returnicons]

[lqikon]

[icanseethefuture333]

A reading on

iKON (OT7):

What has the group's dynamic been like since B.I's departure?:

Oh wow so when I was shuffling my cards fell and the ace of cups was at first upright then it swiveled in reverse. I feel a lot of anxious and jittery energy as well. So I feel that B.I was the member who would "blend" the group together, he was a good mediator and if there ever was an issue he was able to solve it. I also feel that he was like an authority figure. B.I brought structure and stability to the group. I also feel that perhaps some members were closer to each other than some other members and he was able to help them form a bond (I feel this is particularly in regards to Chanwoo?). The members did not feel upset with B.I leaving iKON but more so the circumstances. I felt that they knew if he stayed his mental health would of declined even more. I feel that since B.I left the group, iKON could feel the need to compete with each other? The members who are less popular get less opportunities in comparison to another member who is more famous (most likely Bobby). They could be struggling financially wise. This feels very sad actually because iKON had to always fight for a chance to be in the spotlight despite coming from such a prestigious entertainment company but they got screwed over more than once. They feel as if everytime they reach to the top or celebrate a moment of success, they just hit rock bottom again. iKON feel disheartened by this but there's no where else really to turn to when it comes to making an income. I believe the ace of cups turning around could mean they went from a dynamic that was loving and affectionate to a business partnership. So at first the group could have really felt like a group of close friends but because the constant grief and struggling (I heard trauma bond?), the members' focus is now on new beginnings and creating financial stability for themselves. They are willing to work with each other still since there is trust established here.

Is B.I still close with the members of iKON?:

Oh boy 😅. Honestly you know how some people just need to fight it out to resolve an issue? This is what I see here. So when B.I was still a member of iKON they felt he was suitable to be the leader despite being so young in age but overtime his immaturity began to show. B.I was well articulated, punctual, and logical (I heard cut throat so he's someone who gets straight to the point). I heard "I stuck my neck out for them" so maybe B.I fought for a lot of the things that iKON has now. For example, let's say YG was not really letting them perform or publish certain songs B.I would assert himself and be the voice for his team. B.I could have also made sure the members stayed out of trouble when that was not necessarily his responsibility due to them being grown adults. I felt there was a brief period where B.I went through isolation and also depression? So he was just not as talkative or really closed off from the members. "I felt something bad was going to happen to me". B.I could have intuitively known or started having premonitions before the scandal was going to happen, or he kept having anxiety about people finding about the drug situation. I believe some of the members even got suspicious about it but B.I would lie so he could cover things up. I feel that this was Bobby especially who started getting suspicious of his behavior. "I knew something was wrong but everytime I asked him he wouldn't tell me anything and say that "nothing was wrong." He never allowed us to help him. This situation could of been avoided if he just let people do damage control." I feel that Bobby in particular was pissed about this because they were like brothers and he felt that B.I really fucked up what was going good for the group. He also understands that he was struggling so it's just that Bobby is upset because his friend didn't let him help him when he needed it the most and also ultimately sabotaged his own success but also the group's success as well. Which tbh I think that is a fair and valid reaction. There is also more to the story that we haven't heard about or seen as well. Legally, neither B.I and the members of iKON can talk about it due to contract reasons. They aren't as close because of the NDA that was signed and it basically forced them apart. They could also have lost most of their rights? It's possible YG owns their master's to their music or something. I feel that the group had a meeting? Perhaps iKON had to speak with a manager or legal advisor when B.I left and I'm just seeing Bobby shake his head in response. Something really shifted and changed the group's dynamic since then. I feel that B.I and iKON would need a intervention or someone to bring them together to hash things out and talk again.

What did Bobby mean by his comments about B.I on Instagram?:

😅 I feel like whenever Bobby thinks of B.I he gets mad all over again. I believe he does love him and care about him but it's just a triggering subject for him. He is unable to think about the good memories of him anymore because of the consumables that Bobby had to deal with. Bobby saw what people were saying about ot6 or ot7 and he wanted to respond quickly to that because he honestly didn't want to hear it. "Why talk about the same old shit? We moved on, they should too." Bobby understands that the way he spoke in regards to B.I was blunt and not necessarily the nicest thing he could have said about him since the scandal and his departure but its because he feels anxious. Yunhyeong, Donghyuk, Jinhyeong, Junhoe, and Chanwoo are also members of this group yet people keep hyper focusing on B.I and iKON, Bobby & B.I + iKON, or Bobby + iKON it aggravates him because they feel their dismissing their hard work and efforts of being in the group. "I know everyone has their bias and stuff like that but people don't realize how it's not just me or B.I who worked hard on our music. So when people say things like "ot6" or "ot7" whatever, it just feels like they're focusing on *their* ideal vision of what the group should be and that's not how it is. All this attention on me or him is unbearable sometimes". I believe now that Bobby was able to state how he finally feels, he wants to let go of the past and focus on healing his resentment from his own actions and also B.I's.

What was B.I's reaction to Bobby's comments?:

These two are like that couple who break up and fall in love again 💀. So B.I cares about Bobby and I feel that they are slowly trying to rekindle their friendship with another but there's moments when that animosity shows up again so whenever Bobby does get triggered or forced to remember how B.I hurt him, he can be petty or lash out his anger on him in the process even if he's not the reason why Bobby is upset. So when B.I saw the comments he said about him on IG it did sting but B.I is the kind of person who can dish and also take it. So when someone gets upset with him or scolds him it's nothing new to him but B.I does refrain from getting confrontational because he knows in this situation he is to blame. "He's not wrong at all but I wish he could move on from the past because I feel like it's affecting our ability to grow as friends." B.I is waiting for the right moment to reach out to speak to him but if Bobby hurts his feelings again he might just withdraw from talking to the members altogether. I feel that B.I is currently in fight or flight mode and is trying to heal from this situation since it also triggers him as well. He is very sensitive to confrontation right now and could be feeling like a "coward" in that aspect. It just feels unfair to him because all of the members are upset with him and it makes him feel cornered. "Everyone can be upset with me but who can I be upset with? Nobody but myself. It puts me in a bad place mentally and emotionally." B.I could be struggling with feeling like a victim when it comes the situation with IKON. He should learn to forgive himself and accept that he cannot change his past in order to move on.

Is there a possibility of B.I and IKON seeing each other again/ reuniniting?:

It's honestly up in the air right now 💀 I feel that they overall do wish to see each other again but there's mixed feelings. One member (possibly Junhoe) doesn't want to be bothered because it would bring up a lot of old baggage, another member is being stubborn and just wants to focus on his own success (Bobby), and a few other members feel more hopeful and optimistic about it (Chanwoo, Yunhyeong, and Jinhyeong)? One person (maybe Jinhyeong) is trying to break the ice and create that path to communication again but it's hard because there's a energy that feels reluctant. It's also difficult because B.I is banned in the kpop industry so it's like if they interact with him it could negatively affect their image. It's a "damned if I do, damned if I don't" type of situation 🤷🏽‍♀️. Some of the members care about rekindling the friendship while the others are focused on their career and being a financial support to their families. Overall, it seems they've come to terms with B.I being gone and understand that business is prioritized over feelings.

[dropthedemiurge]

Thief Who Stole Your Heart

(don't laugh I literally just made up that title) I don't know where the sudden inspiration came from but I managed to draw a decent fanart for Yunhyeong's birthday in a couple of hours between work and translating of Donghyuk's solo debut song xD iKON are sooo busy in February...

I'm learning how to draw with CSP on my tablet with stylus like a cool guy but it's really hard %) So I still have to resort to the bulky set-up with my laptop and old wacom tablet and crushing Paint Tool Sai. But at least the pipeline there is so familiar that I'm able to even like the result x))

Anyway, Happy Birthday, Song Yunhyeong! I'm really waiting for your trot solo album :D And I absolutely adore your family (I've met them and they are incredible people) and your warm personality, don't ever change <3

[thena0315]

SONG - It's Call M/V Released!!

[soundsofcicadas]

Swan Song, part six

Parts one | two | three | four | five | six | seven (final)

Pairing: Koo Junhoe x Reader (f)  

Genres: Writer AU / Drama, Romance, Childhood best friends, Junhoe is a former idol, Friends to lovers  

Count: 4171

Warnings: Alcohol consumption, intoxication, and drunken behavior.

Synopsis: After an unexpected encounter with your childhood best friend Junhoe, years after drifting apart, your rekindled friendship blooms anew. However, life takes a turn when he asks you to pen an article for his upcoming wedding. As you become entangled in his personal life, your old feelings of love for him begin resurfacing and the concealed secret behind his decision to abandon his idol career is soon to be unveiled by you.  

Nearly two months had passed since that day at the noodle shop, when things felt a little emotional between you and Junhoe. You hadn’t seen him since, but you knew it was because his wedding was fast approaching. The two of you stayed in touch, and Junhoe consistently traded messages with you until they became less frequent. Knowing you might start to worry again, Junhoe made sure to let you know that he was doing alright and that the reduced communication only meant he had gotten busier with the wedding preparations. He even shared with you that he and Yuna were planning something small and intimate—just a simple ceremony at the church in your hometown, followed by a modest reception at his family’s house. Only a few of Yuna’s close friends, a handful of relatives, and of course, you and the boys were invited. The kind of celebration that felt more like home than a spectacle. You’d even found yourself smiling when he mentioned Jiwon and Donghyuk would be flying back to attend.

Later on, he and Yuna went over the same details in an online meeting with Yeri and the rest of your team. That was when you saw him again, even if only through the screen. Junhoe acknowledged your presence, looking delighted to see you again. The couple seemed to be doing well—there was no strange tension between them. They interacted with Yeri and the rest of you with the same calm professionalism. The meeting moved quickly, covering plans, setups, and responsibilities.

Then it struck you, everything all at once—it felt like time had flown since you last saw him at the record store. Here he was, about to get married, and here you were, writing about his marriage.

So you did what you knew best—you stayed focused on work and poured yourself into the planning and execution of the coverage, determined to keep your emotions in check. You wanted to stay grounded, to not let your feelings for Junhoe take over. More than anything, you wanted to be genuinely happy for him, to honor the bond you still shared. If this was all you could be to him now—a friend—you were willing to hold on to that, and make peace with it. Even your suspicions about Junhoe’s condition faded into the background, lost in all the noise of what came after.

One week before Junhoe’s wedding, you found something unexpected waiting in your mailbox. Resting among the usual flyers and mundane letters was an envelope you didn’t recognize—sleek, elegant, and made from heavy cream cardstock. Your name and mailing address were handwritten in clean, careful strokes, and the flap was sealed with an intricate wax stamp that bore no familiar insignia. No return address. No indication of who had sent it or where it had come from.

You furrowed your brow. Junhoe’s wedding invitation had already arrived weeks ago, so what could this be?

You slipped your finger under the seal and carefully opened it. Inside was a single card, thick and smooth to the touch. In the center, embossed in graceful cursive, it read:

If you have received this envelope, you are invited and required to attend Koo Junhoe’s Bachelor Party this coming Friday. Party starts at 8 PM. Dress code: Evening attire.

Beneath the message, the location was printed in smaller, bold text, followed by what looked like a disclaimer:

This party is an exclusive gathering for Junhoe’s close friends. This isn’t your average bachelor party either (no strippers or anything of that sort). However, feel free to bring a date. Please remember, this is a surprise party for Junhoe, so keep it a secret! And make sure not to be late. -KJH

You couldn’t help but laugh at the “no strippers” line on the note—thank God this wasn’t going to be one of those wild bachelor parties you’d heard about. But curiosity soon followed you, as your laughter faded.

KJH? The initials stuck in your head. Who could’ve sent this? The question nagged at you until a name suddenly came to mind—could it be Kim Jinhwan? You’d never met him in person, but you remembered seeing him at one of Junhoe’s concerts a while back. He was Junhoe’s longtime best friend from the music industry, and you were almost convinced he was the one behind organizing the party.

Thursday.

You stood in front of the mirror, carefully adjusting the apricot-colored silk dress that you had bought for tomorrow night’s party. The dress was sleeveless, falling just past your knees, but not quite reaching your feet. The fabric shimmered softly in the light, and as you examined yourself, you debated whether this color had been the right choice. Maybe you should have gone with black—something safer, more formal. But then again, the shoes you’d picked out complemented the dress perfectly: a pair of satin stilettos in the same apricot hue.

As you continued to second-guess your decision, your phone buzzed on the bed beside you. You picked it up, seeing a message from Hanbin: Hey y/n, Yeri and I will pick you up at 7 p.m. tomorrow.

Then, just as you were about to reply to his text, another notification lit up the screen. This time, it was from Yoshi: Hello noona, I will pick you up at your place tomorrow night at 7. See you ;)

You stared at the message, blinking. A pause stretched out as your mind tried to catch up—Yoshi? You hadn’t asked him to pick you up.

And then it hit you.

You brought a palm to your forehead, letting out a groan as the memory came rushing back. A few nights ago, the entire magazine team had gone out for drinks after work—a rare night where deadlines were done, and even Yeri and Chanwoo let loose a little. You remembered sitting beside Yoshi, laughing over something trivial… and then nothing. A hazy blur. You’d gotten drunk.

Too drunk.

Bits and pieces floated back—Junhoe’s bachelor party, plus-ones, and somewhere in between, you might have asked Yoshi to come with you as your date. Your stomach twisted.

You had no idea what he said in response that night, but judging by his message now, he’d taken your invitation seriously.

Regret bubbled up. What did I even say? you wondered, mentally retracing every fuzzy step of that evening. Part of you wanted to reply and clear it up, politely decline, or say you’d made a mistake. But another part of you hesitated. It was true—Hanbin would be with Yeri, and Yunhyeong was bringing his girlfriend. If you backed out, you’d be the only one at the party without a date.

You sighed, sinking onto the edge of the bed. Maybe it wasn’t such a bad thing. Besides, Yoshi was good company. And somehow, it felt easier going in with someone by your side.

With a heavy sigh, you picked up your phone again, the weight of embarrassment sitting squarely on your shoulders. You stared at Yoshi’s message for a moment before typing out your reply—you were reluctant, but sincere. Hey, I’m so sorry for being drunk and all over the place the other night. I must’ve said something stupid. But really, thanks for remembering and agreeing to come with me. I appreciate it. I’ll be waiting for you tomorrow.

You hit send before you could overthink it. Your cheeks warmed as you imagined Yoshi reading it, probably smiling in that easy, harmless way he always did.

Then you tapped on Hanbin’s name. Bin, no need to pick me up tomorrow. I’m riding with Yoshi.

Not even ten seconds later, your screen lit up again. Okaay, Ms. Bringing a date.

You rolled your eyes and shook your head. Of course Hanbin would tease you.

Friday.

The night was supposed to be a celebration, but Junhoe’s excitement dipped the moment he noticed you weren’t there.

The party was held at a stunning villa owned by Jinwoo—Jinhwan’s boyfriend. The place was inviting and lively, with large windows overlooking a glimmering pool outside, reflecting the string lights crisscrossing above. A movie projector was also set up nearby, playing classic movies across a floating screen. Inside, a billiard table and a modern vintage jukebox stood in one corner of the wide lounge, surrounded by a few more gaming setups scattered throughout. The living and dining areas had been transformed for the occasion—tastefully decorated in rich reds and gleaming silvers, complete with a table loaded with mouthwatering food, snacks, and all kinds of drinks.

Junhoe walked in expecting a quiet dinner with Jinhwan and Jinwoo, who had  just arrived in his hometown for the wedding—but the dim lights, loud cheers, and known faces said otherwise. It was his surprise bachelor party.

Everyone was there: some of his friends from the music and film industry, and of course, his childhood friends and groomsmen—Jinhwan, Hanbin and Yunhyeong—each with their partners in tow.

Still, one face was missing.

With a slight frown, he turned to Hanbin. “Where is she?”

Hanbin, already on his phone, didn’t miss a beat. “I’m texting her. She said Yoshi got the GPS wrong, but they’re close.”

Junhoe blinked. She’s bringing Yoshi with her? The thought intrigued him.

You and Yoshi arrived at the villa at half past eight.

Yoshi looked genuinely apologetic as he parked the car. “I’m really sorry, noona. There was a mix-up with the GPS! The place I pinned had almost the same address as this one.”

You smiled and waved it off. “It’s okay, Yoshi. Don’t stress about it, we’re here now.”

You were welcomed by the sound of music and laughter echoing from the villa. Hanbin greeted you at the door with a grin. “Finally. Thought you two got lost for real.”

Junhoe stood just behind him, wearing a white tee under a black leather jacket and faded jeans—completely off-theme from the rest of the guests who clearly got the memo on the dress code. It was kind of amusing how unprepared he looked—he clearly hadn’t seen this surprise coming.

You quickly apologized, half-laughing, “I’m so sorry we’re late—”

“It was my fault,” Yoshi cut in quickly. “I messed up the GPS.”

Junhoe nodded, though he wasn’t really listening to Yoshi’s explanation. His eyes were on you—taking in how pretty you looked in that apricot silk dress, your hair tucked neatly behind your ears.

After making your rounds and greeting the guests inside, you eventually stepped back out and found yourself alone with Junhoe by the pool. Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac played softly from inside the villa, blending with the quiet dialogue of Scarface on the projector.

Smiling, you handed him a bag containing your gift. “I know this is your night, but… sorry again for being late. And—congratulations, Junhoe.”

His eyes widened in surprise. “Y/n… you didn’t have to get me anything.”

“I wanted to,” you said, throwing him a cheeky wink.

Junhoe opened the white paper bag and pulled out a dark red box with a crisp white ribbon. Carefully, he undid the bow and opened it. Inside was a deep wine-colored Valentino tie.

He let out a low whistle. “Wow… This is beautiful.”

“You’re getting married. You deserve something nice,” you grinned, nudging him slightly.

He looked up at you, his eyes glowing with fondness. “You always knew how to pick the right things.”

You shrugged, heart thudding a little harder than you wanted to admit. “Just figured it’d suit you.”

“Thank you, y/n. Really,” Junhoe traced the silk fabric with his fingers, looking at it like it meant more than just a gift.

And for a fleeting moment, it felt like it was just the two of you—wrapped in silence and suspended in something that didn’t need words. 

Junhoe turned the tie over in his hands, admiring it a bit longer before glancing back up at you with an expression that was more curious than grateful this time.

“So… Yoshi as your date huh?” Junhoe asked trying to sound casual, but you could feel the weight behind the question. “Is that… for real?”

You let out a nervous laugh, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear as you looked away toward the pool. “It’s… not like that.”

Junhoe raised an eyebrow. “I mean, you came here with him. Is there something going on?”

You hesitated. You couldn’t exactly tell him that you had drunkenly invited Yoshi just to avoid feeling left out. Instead of answering, you deflected, your eyes sweeping across the villa. “Can we talk about how impressive this whole party is? Jinhwan really went all out. I mean—he nailed your vibe, right down to the jukebox.”

“Yeah… he really did,” Junhoe chuckled, clearly catching on to how you were dodging the topic. But he didn’t drop it completely. “I hope Yoshi’s a good guy… whoever you’re with, I want him to see you the way your friends do, the way I do,” his voice softened as he looked at you, more thoughtful now. “You deserve the best guy on the planet, y/n.”

You swallowed hard at that, unsure what to say—unsure if you could say anything without letting something slip that wasn’t supposed to.

With a teasing grin, you steered things elsewhere instead. “Okay, Mr. Sentimental. Let’s talk about you. How’s the groom-to-be feeling, huh? Two nights left before your big day.”

Junhoe smiled, letting the change in topic slide—though his eyes lingered on you a second longer than necessary. “Honestly? It didn’t really hit me until recently. Everything’s been so busy. But now that it’s almost here… yeah. It’s surreal.”

You chuckled, trying to play it cool. “So? Where are you two headed after the wedding? Somewhere fancy, I bet.”

He smiled, this time with a little more excitement. “Paris. We’ll be spending a month there.”

“Wow,” your mouth hung open. “A whole month in Paris?”

Junhoe nodded. “Yeah. Yuna’s always dreamed of it, and honestly, I could use the escape too.”

“That sounds perfect, Jun,” the words slipped out naturally, even though part of you was still coming to terms with the fact that this new life of his was one where you could never have him.

Your conversation with Junhoe trailed off just as voices called out from the patio doors.

“There they are—Joan and Bob!” Yunhyeong exclaimed jokingly. “Food’s getting cold, guys. Are we missing out on some juicy gossip or what?”

You looked over your shoulder to see him and Hanbin grinning like kids, as if they’d caught you two doing something scandalous. 

Junhoe, oblivious to the reference, shot Yunhyeong a playful grimace while you snorted at the joke. You wanted to throttle Yunhyeong then and there for calling you both those names. Was Junhoe the Bob Dylan to your Joan Baez? If only he knew just how close to home that comparison was… kind of, but not really. 

Hanbin threw you a dramatic side-eye, wagging his finger at you in mock scolding. “Your date’s inside losing at pool, by the way, and you’re just out here? Cold move, y/n.”

Junhoe glanced back at you with a smirk, and you laughed, hands up in surrender. “Alright, alright—we’re coming!”

************************************************************************

It was a filling, satisfying dinner—plates passed around, stories exchanged, and laughter bouncing off the walls of the villa. With full stomachs and loosened spirits, the guests had slowly dispersed across the space. Some gathered by the billiards table, while others lounged near the pool watching the movie on the projector. In the living room, you found yourself surrounded by easy company: Yoshi by your side, with Hanbin and Yeri next to him. Yunhyeong and Eunha sat together on the opposite sofa, while Junhoe had taken the armrest. The center table was lined with different kinds of alcohol—wine, tequila, beer, soju, and even sake. Bottles clinked against glasses, conversations overlapped with teasing remarks and tipsy banter that never seemed to run dry.

Yunhyeong launched another story about an old camping trip, recalling how a very drunk Hanbin had crawled into his sleeping bag by mistake and ended up using him as a human pillow. “When I woke up,” Yunhyeong said, already laughing, “his mouth was on my cheek—and I caught all his saliva.”

Hanbin doubled over, wheezing, while the whole group erupted in laughter. Yeri groaned in mock disgust, clutching her drink. “That’s foul, babe. Absolutely foul.”

You leaned forward slightly, reaching past Yoshi to tap Hanbin’s knee with a sly grin. “Bin, remember that night we went out drinking for Donghyuk’s send-off?”

Hanbin pressed his glass to his face, eyes squeezed shut as he chuckled. “I know where this is going!”

You smirked, turning to include the rest of the group. “Yun got so wasted that night, he walked straight to the fridge near the cashier, thinking it was the toilet.”

Yunhyeong threw his head back laughing, one hand covering his face. “I hate you!”

“And he was seconds away from unzipping his pants!” you continued, “until Bin and Dongie grabbed him and started yelling, ‘Hyung! That’s the fridge!’”

Hanbin slapped his knee, his voice loud. “We thought we were gonna get banned from the pub! He kept mumbling, ‘Just gotta pee real quick…’ we were panicking!”

“I was sleepy!” Yunhyeong shouted through his laughter.

Junhoe leaned over, cracking up. “You almost peed on the beer bottles?”

Eunha giggled. “That’s the most Yunhyeong story I’ve ever heard.”

“I think that tops the one when he did body rolls at that jazz club we all went to for my birthday,” Yeri said with a grin, clearly remembering it well. 

You raised your glass toward Yunhyeong, smug. “Call it balance.”

The group erupted again, the energy rising with every chaotic memory.

As the hours wore on, the drinks kept flowing and snacks were passed around, the atmosphere grew hot and heady—voices rising with old stories and new jokes. At one point, Hanbin raised his glass to Junhoe for a toast, congratulating him. Each of you followed with your best wishes for the groom-to-be. Eventually, Jinhwan and Jinwoo took over the energy in the room, cranking it up a notch.

“Alright, everyone!” Jinhwan announced, clapping his hands. “Enough sitting around—get up, we’re dancing!”

The jukebox whirred to life, blasting The Rolling Stones’ Let’s Spend The Night Together that made everyone cheer. One by one, people started pulling each other to the open space in the living room, now cleared for dancing. You couldn’t stop smiling as you stood, watching Yeri tug Hanbin by the wrist toward the makeshift dance floor. Yoshi offered his hand with a small bow, and you let him lead you with a soft laugh.

As you swayed to the beat, you took in the scene—friends laughing, dancing freely, arms wrapped around shoulders, memories being made in real time. You couldn’t describe the feeling exactly, but it filled you to the brim. Bliss, nostalgia, something carefree. Everyone was here. Together. And for tonight, nothing else mattered.

You spotted Junhoe across the room, now being pulled into a goofy dance-off with Yunhyeong to the song Footloose. He was laughing—head thrown back, eyes crinkling. Completely carried away by the moment. 

And that, you thought, might’ve been your favorite part of the night.

It was well past midnight when everything began to hush. The drunken laughter and shouting had faded into hums and sleepy smiles. The jukebox clicked, and a soft ballad began to play, threading its melody through the dimmed lights, the lingering scent of alcohol, and the cool brush of night air.

Only a few remained on the dance floor now—Jinwoo and Jinhwan swaying closely, their foreheads nearly touching. Yunhyeong, on the other hand, had spun Eunha before she tucked her head into his shoulder. It was a quiet kind of love that filled the floor—the kind that didn’t need to speak too loud.

On the sofa, Hanbin lay passed out with his head on Yeri’s lap, mumbling something unintelligible every now and then. She simply brushed his hair back, smiling sleepily. Yoshi, sitting beside you, was nearly dozing off, his head leaning back against the cushions. You, on the other hand, were still very much drunk, grinning dreamily as you watched the couples dance.

Then you heard his voice. “Wanna dance?”

Junhoe who was just as drunk as you were stood beside you, hands in his pockets, eyes glinting with something unreadable. The curve of a crooked smile playing on his lips. Something in the way he looked at you pulled at your heartstrings.

“I’m going to step on your foot,” you warned him.

Junhoe chuckled, extending his hand. “Then I’ll just have to be careful.”

Your fingers met his, and he pulled you up with a laugh that made your heart stumble a little. You walked toward the open floor together, giggling like kids at a school dance. The next ballad that played was Break It to Me Gently by Brenda Lee. 

You rested your hands on his shoulders and his on your waist, and just like that, the world quieted. Everything else faded—the party, the drinks, the reality waiting outside of tonight. It was just the two of you, swaying under dim lights and slow music. Junhoe smelled of musk and tequila, and yours carried traces of vanilla and wine. The mix was dizzying, but both of you didn’t mind the proximity. Neither of you said a word, but in your drunken stupor, all you could do was wish time would slow down. That he didn’t have to go. That he wasn’t getting married.

The song ended, leaving the crackle of the jukebox behind. You and Junhoe came to a gentle stop on the floor, your head now resting against his chest. His heartbeat steady beneath your cheek.

You looked up at him, blinking slowly, a foolish, lopsided smile spreading across your face—until your balance gave way beneath you.

“Whoa, careful!” Junhoe had caught you just before you fell.

His arms wrapped around you instinctively, steadying your swaying figure. The sudden movement caught the attention of everyone in the living room. Hanbin lifted his face from Yeri’s lap, Yunhyeong looked your way, and even Yoshi blinked himself awake.

Junhoe, still holding onto you, gave a sheepish grin. “She’s okay. I got her.”

“Maybe she should lie down,” Yeri said with vague concern.

“I’ll take her,” Junhoe replied, glancing at Yoshi, who only nodded in understanding, a little guilt in his eyes.

Jinwoo, arms still around Jinhwan, pointed toward the stairs. “You can bring her to any of the spare bedrooms upstairs.”

Junhoe nodded in thanks and crouched slightly. “Alright, up you go,” he said, hoisting you onto his back in one fluid motion. You mumbled something incoherent, arms draped loosely over his shoulders as he carried you upstairs, his steps careful  despite the alcohol in his system. He took you to one of the guest rooms. A small lamp on the bedside table clicked on with a warm glow, as Junhoe set you down gently on the bed. Slowly, he slid off your heels, placing them orderly at the foot of the bed before grabbing the soft blanket folded at the end to cover you, smoothing it over your shoulder.

Junhoe stared at your peaceful face, conflicted whether to leave you alone to rest, but just as he was about to go, your hand shot out and grabbed his wrist.

“Stay,” you mumbled, your voice sluggish from the intoxication. 

Junhoe nodded, pulling a chair from the corner closer to your bedside. He sat, elbows on his knees, watching as your eyelids fluttered and your cheeks flushed from drink.

“You’re really drunk,” he said, flashing you an inebriated smile—but unlike you, at least he could hold his liquor.

You giggled in reply, your words spilling out with no filter. “Everyone’s drunk. Hanbin talks too much. Yunhyeong thinks he’s a DJ. So dumb…”

Junhoe laughed under his breath. “Look who’s talking.”

Your eyes felt heavy. The room fell silent, and out of nowhere, you said it—your eyes closing as you spoke, never once looking directly at him.

“I can’t wait for you to get married, Junhoe,” you whispered—but he heard it. All of it.

“I want to forget my feelings for you. Wait until I move on from you.”

Junhoe’s breath caught, too stunned by your confession. 

“Why didn’t I admit I liked you when we were kids?” you continued, your words slurred and slow. “Maybe you wouldn’t have forgotten about me for so long…”

Junhoe couldn’t utter a word—he was in disbelief. A subtle sting rose in his chest. Your feelings, long buried or overlooked, had surfaced the night before he was meant to promise himself to someone else.

You mumbled a bit more—nothing that made much sense—and then you were out like a light.

Junhoe sat there for a long moment, staring at you. He brushed a strand of hair away from your face delicately, his hand still, longer than he intended. He looked at you one last time as he stood, retreating from the room with a truth he hadn’t been ready to hear.