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thelostprincessposts · 45 minutes ago

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Sunflower [Painted Verso x Reader]

Pairings: Painted Verso x Reader

Summary: you like Verso, but you think he likes Lune, and you're both clueless in love. Angst with a happy ending!

Rating: PG?

Warnings: none really. Canon-typical violence and injuries.

Author's note: I am PMSing this week so what started angsty turned mushy because Verso makes me mush

The realization hit you like a ton of bricks as your gaze followed Verso's lip movements; the way his sentence would finish and the corner of his lips would uptick slightly in a warm smile. His eyes were glittering, half lidded as he listened intently. The way the fire lit his beautiful eyes. How the flames made him seem softer and more content than usual. You could listen to the mirth of his laugh forever; let it lull you into a stupor as you sat there entranced. You wished you could reach out and brush away the stray hair that managed to fall over his forehead.

Fuck. You were falling for Verso.

There was a small...tiny...miniscule problem, though. You sat across the campfire, observing him from a distance. His current demeanor was not aimed at you, but at your teammate, Lune. And Lune was one of your best friends, so how could you interfere with her happiness?

Verso seemed so at ease with her. They would poke fun at each other and ask each other the most ridiculous questions, like "would you rather be a monkey or an elephant?" And then get into a heated debate about the pros and cons.

When did you even start to harbor these feelings for Verso? You couldn't remember a time that you looked at him without thinking how attractive he was or a time when his sarcastic remarks wouldn't make your chest feel warm.

You sighed to yourself and tore your eyes away from them, instead leaning your head on Sciel's shoulder. She was fond of snuggling and gently laughed while wrapping her arm around you.

"You know I can always tell what you're thinking?" She said mischievously. You pulled your head away to narrow your eyes at her. She stared right back with a smirk.

"Cards, yeah? Let's play," you suggested heavily. Since Sciel could summon her deck anywhere, you two were getting quite good at various games each night.

"Fine, but I'm not letting you win this time," she fake yawned before dealing your hand.

"Ouch," you laughed back. You tried your hardest not to look over at Verso and Lune. You'd had enough pining for one night. In turning your back to him you completely missed the way Verso's eyes softened at your laughter with Sciel.

_______________

You then thought, perhaps, that Verso viewed you as a liability. He'd suggested sparring with you to prepare for the next area you'd be exploring. "The nevrons there are really fast, and I noticed you haven't been our quickest dodger..."

You almost spit out the oats you were eating for breakfast. "Uh... I'm not sure how you want me to take that observation," you said, more than mildly offended. His eyes widened and his hands became super animated as he replied.

"No! I'm sorry, I didn't mean to offend you. All I'm saying is that I'd like to help you train. If you're not comfortable with me, I can ask Monoco to help too," he suggested. "It's just that I know some of these nevrons have effects that can't be parried. I need to be sure you can dodge."

It was still early. Lune was grumbling through breakfast (she's definitely not a morning person). Sciel was already helping Maelle with her pictos in a clearing nearby.

Verso's eyes looked helpless. He rubbed his neck waiting for your response.

Your heart raced against your will at the prospect of training with Verso in private, even if just for a few minutes. "Okay, if you think it will help," you agreed.

He gave you a crooked smile and stretched his arm to the edge of camp gesturing to an open area to practice. You walked past him trying to hide the blush that was inevitably creeping across your face. Get it together.

You stepped away from him and pulled out your daggers in preparation. "No daggers," he commanded. "I'm going to send blank chroma waves at you, gradually faster, until you're comfortable dodging them. And then maybe some hand to hand combat if you're up for it."

You nodded in anticipation. Admittedly, you were not the fastest fighter of your crew. You were methodical and always there to support the fight, but it wasn't in you to run in, guns blazing for a takedown. Verso shook his jacket off and removed his weapons belt, leaving him in his white blouse. That damn neckline showed off the valley of his chest and you had to force yourself to meet his eyes.

He started off slowly - sending blasts of chroma near your feet and then to your sides to dodge. As the speed picked up you were bending and jumping, cutting to the left and right to avoid the shots.

"Good. I'm not so worried about distance combat," he said, motioning his fingers to beckon you closer to him. Your chest was heaving trying to keep up with your movements.

Verso didn't give you a chance for a break, instead launching into a series of punches. He wasn't putting much weight behind them. You only noticed this because, as he expected, you were not as good at dodging in close range combat. His hands grazed your shoulders and arms a few times before you lifted your arms in defeat.

"I need to catch my breath," you admitted before scratching your flask of water.

"You're getting better," he offered while you took a long pull from the bottle. You couldn't help the next thought that popped into your mind, let alone left your mouth.

"Have you trained with Lune?" You asked. Your back was turned to him while you replaced the bottle cap and set the water aside.

"I don't have to. She's a strong fighter," he replied. Part of you was giddy that you had his attention, but the other part of you was horrified that his attention was on you for the wrong reason. When you didn't reply he started to stutter over his words. "Look, I...I didn't mean you're not a strong fighter. You've held your own. I just, I wanted to -"

"Save it, Dessendre. Let's go again." Your shoulder brushed his as you strode past him to your starting point. In an attempt to not show your defeated face, you missed the look of total regret covering Verso's festures. When he turned to you and nodded, you'd never be the wiser.

Verso was fast, but you knew the nevrons could be faster. You went through two more rounds of hand to hand before Maelle approached to watch. You'd been in the middle of taking a breather when she suggested it: "maybe I should practice with you. My sword can be very fast."

You took a hesitant look at Verso, but he agreed with Maelle. Maelle was giddy to be included, though you felt your time with Verso was cut short. You and Maelle started with hand to hand drills before moving to makeshift weapons. Her sword was replaced by a sturdy branch, your daggers replaced by twigs.

Lune came over during the sparring to see what was happening. You couldn't help but notice how both her and Verso's faces lit up as they talked. You saw her laugh out of the corner of your eye at something he said and the next thing you knew you were groaning in pain before landing on your ass.

Maelle's stubby branch had made contact with your ribcage and a bruise was surely forming. You felt the wind knock out of you as you hit the ground and Maelle gasped.

"Oh my gods, I'm so sorry Y/N!"

You shook your head as you winced and felt your lungs struggle to open up. Verso rushed to your side immediately and lifted your shirt to see if any real damage was done. "Look at me, Y/N. You can breathe. You just had the wind knocked out of you. Take a small breath through your nose," he coached you. His eyes were intently scanning your face before his hand reached down to brush the hair off your forehead.

As your breathing figured itself out, you felt immense embarrassment and anger at how you allowed yourself to be distracted. You needed to forget about Verso.

"I'm fine," you murmured as you rolled to your side, away from the team huddled over you, and pushed yourself up. They couldn't see the way your face scrunched up in discomfort.

"Y/N..." Lune managed to catch your arm as you went to pick up your water. "I can help heal it if you want." Of course she could. Lune could do fucking anything.

Your eyes met hers. Your resolve was crumbling as you felt Verso's pained eyes staring you down from where you fell. "I'm fine, Lune. I'd like to be alone for a bit."

She nodded and watched you stalk off to the springs to get cleaned up.

__________

You and Maelle were chatting over the fire when Lune interrupted to ask about your bruising. Maelle respectfully slipped away so Lune could sit with you on the log.

It was just the two of you. You lifted your shirt so she could see your injury more clearly. "Yikes, that's intense. I'm shocked Maelle had that much force behind it."

"I wouldn't underestimate her. I think I just lost focus after all that training." Lune nodded at your flimsy excuse and brought her hand to her chin thoughtfully.

"It doesn't look like anything is broken. Do you want any healing?" She asked. You lowered your shirt and shook your head.

"I'm okay. I'll just have to pay more attention next time."

There was a stretch of comfortable silence as you both watched the fire. You'd known Lune since you were children. If there was anyone who really understood you, it was probably her. "It was kind of Verso to offer to train with you," she said.

You didn't really have a response, still unsure of what to make of his intentions. You made a noncommital hum in response. Your thoughts wandered thinking how foreign it felt to hear Lune speak with you about Verso - about any man, really. Lune never was the kind for girl talk back in Lumiere.

"Sooo...what do you think of him?" Lune prodded. There it was. Lune wanted your opinion on the man she was interested in. Her smile was growing and you knew you had to choose your words carefully.

You ran your hand through your hair with a shrug. "From what I can tell he seems to be endearing. He seems to get along with everyone quite well."

She chuckled and crossed her legs. "Endearing? Are we playing a word game?" She teased.

You laughed a bit yourself, trying to relax. "I don't know, Lune. He's not been with us that long." 19 days, 2 hours, and 49 minutes actually. "What don't you want me to say?"

"I wish you'd get to know him better."

Maybe you didn't spend your days chatting with him nonstop, but you knew plenty. You knew he was a terrible sleeper. Knew he was hiding an arm injury from the way he favored his left arm. Knew that he savored the instant coffee the team brought because it took him 30 minutes of nursing his cup in the morning before finishing it. You knew the way his eyes crinkled when he found something undoubtedly funny. And you knew he was falling for Lune.

"I've gotten to know him plenty. I'm happy he's with the team."

What you were really trying to say to her was: I'm happy for you. But you couldn't bring yourself to say it directly yet.

Lune threw an arm around you and you returned the embrace with a hug. Your heart might have felt like it shredded into a million pieces, but you would never let her know this.

__________

As if getting an injury during sparring wasn't embarrassing enough, Verso was constantly checking up on you throughout the next day. It felt like at each mile you walked he was asking if you were coping alright and telling you to stay out of nevron conflict - that the team could handle it without you.

You felt useless and like a hindrance all day. Your thoughts were unkind as you watched Verso and Lune walk side by side ahead of you. Verso was making Monoco walk near you since he was much bigger and could defend you quickly. By the time you made it back to camp, you were over it.

You completely skipped team decompression by the fire. As much as you wanted to be there for the team, you weren't sure you could handle another heart to heart with Lune.

Thankfully, you didn't have to tonight. You scrubbed your face with spring water and noticed Lune and Verso had made their way to the cliffside to chat. You couldn't resist peeking around the corner to see what they were up to. Their conversation looked intimate from the way he ran his hand through his hair and the way her hand was gently soothing his upper arm. Your heart completely crumbled at the sight.

You turned away quickly and tried to swallow the lump in your throat before anyone could see you. Your vision felt blurred and your chest ached thinking of their romance; not to mention the bruise on your side making it difficult to breathe deeply.

"Everything alright, Y/N?" Sciel asked, concerned when you snatched your bedroll and water flask up in a flurry.

"Fine, I'm just exhausted. I'm going to sleep," you replied in a rush before settling down in the cave where the Curator usually set up. It was always quiet and dark there. Once you knew you were alone, you couldn't stop the tears from slipping down your face. Eventually sleep took you blissfully away from any thoughts of Verso's proximity to Lune or Lune's boisterous laugh.

___________

You woke the next day with a wicked headache, surely from crying all night. Though, it did feel good to release all those emotions. You were resolved to start the day anew and distance yourself from Verso and Lune while you sorted out your feelings.

This proved difficult as Verso intercepted you on your way to the campfire in the morning. "Y/N, how are you doing? Sciel mentioned you looked unwell last night." Traitor, you thought.

You pushed past him to grab an apple from the supply stash. "I'm fine. Was just tired is all. You don't need to worry about me." Your words were clipped as you refused to make eye contact with him.

"Y/N! You're awake. Can I take a look at your ribs?" Lune exclaimed, coming around the corner with some fish from the stream. Your new day's resolution was imploding at both of them hovering over you.

"I'm fine," you said tightly. "Much better than yesterday."

"Is it normal for you to wince, then? You look pained," Verso remarked, crossing his arms.

"Are you guys going to fuss over me all day or can we just get going? I said I was fine. Let's leave it at that."

Verso and Lune shared a glance. They were having some secret conversation in their eyes. Your heart panged, but Lune put her hands up in surrender.

A few hours later the team was trekking through an area of dense forest trying to find an old expedition camp Verso swore had leftover supplies. You were thankful that the foliage was so thick that it prevented the sun from beating your forehead any further, but the forest felt oddly quiet. Too quiet.

"Stay close. Something is off," Verso whispered from the front. The only sounds for a few minutes were your feet crunching leaves and the wind whipping through the trees. Verso moved cautiously in front of you, his arm pulling you behind him. You startled at the contact, but your heart warmed at his protection.

You didn't have time to dwell on the moment because within seconds your team was surrounded by bulky nevrons with bladed arms and legs.

"It's an ambush! Circle formation!" Lune called from your side.

The team naturally moved so that everyone's back was facing the center. Everyone was focused outward and no nevron would get between the group. You were secretly grateful for Verso's trainings since these foes were, indeed, close range combat fighters. You parried their arms as best you could and then dodged to land blows at their sides. You had to have been close to the abandoned camp with how many nevrons were surrounding the area.

You were winded from fighting off three opponents, but you couldn't lose focus. Lune was dodging her opponents but was overrun. You helped her by taking down a nevron at close range. Out of the corner of your eye you noticed another nevron moving on Verso and hurried to meet it.

The nevron was fast, but when it noticed you coming it switched its attention from Verso to you. In one swooping motion, its arm aimed from Verso's side to your leg and you didn't have enough time to dodge from the way your momentum was carrying you. The blade sliced your thigh, tearing through your pants and leaving an immediate gash.

You let out a guttural yell as your dagger met its chest, the nevron disappearing as your leg gave out.

"Y/N!" Verso screamed. You were falling and your leg was on fire and you were pretty sure it was the dumbest thing you'd ever done. It dawned on you that Verso was immortal and would recover from the nevron attack. You, on the other hand, were already injured and definitely not immortal.

You could hear yourself screaming and writhing in pain, but your mind felt disconnected from your body. Your eyes searched the trees above you; your peripheral caught the flashes of Lune's fire attack and a burst of energy from Sciel.

The wind picked up again and as you watched the leaves dancing in the wind, your eyes fluttered closed of their own accord and strong arms gathered you from the ground.

__________

You weren't sure how long you'd been unconscious, but the next time your eyes opened it was dark. Your body had only woken you up to purge, for in seconds you rolled over to heave onto the ground.

Someone was saying your name. Someone else mentioned poison. The sensation of wet fabric cleaning your face was the last thing you remembered before slipping back to a dreamless sleep.

__________

You were hardly awake, but you were roused from your sleep by your body shaking intensely. You felt like your bones were trying to break out of your skin from how harshly you shook; your teeth clattered and you felt extremely cold despite a sheen of sweat coating your skin.

Lune's hands were on your leg while she attempted to cleanse and heal it. She had not realized your eyes were open yet. "Lune..." you croaked.

Her eyes whipped up to watch you before she yelled for the team. "So...cold..." you managed to whisper to her.

"You're cold? You're burning up. You've been poisoned by the nevron's blade. Your body is trying to rid the poison," she spoke gently. Verso was the first to make it over to you two. You were struggling to stay awake, but you would never forget the way his wild eyes held yours. "She's complaining that she's cold," was all Lune said before turning her full attention to your leg.

Sleep was coming for you, but not before you felt another jacket being placed on your body and the warmth of a body behind you.

__________

It was dusk when you opened your eyes next. The sky was a beautiful mix of pinks and blues while the sun was setting and you could smell someone cooking at the fire nearby. Your body was no longer shaking and your leg, while painful, at least was not on fire any longer.

You coughed from your dry throat and heard footsteps racing toward you. "Oh thank goodness! Let me get you some water," Sciel exclaimed. "Lune! Y/N is awake!"

You attempted to prop yourself up on your elbows when you noted a log behind you. Lune was by your side in an instant to help you rest against the log in a semi-seated position. Sciel returned with a flask of water, but Lune warned not to drink too much in case your body threw up again.

"Your fever has broken," Lune commented after touching your forehead. Sciel was stroking your arm soothingly, trying to be close to you, but not too close.

"Where is everyone?" You asked. You seemed to be at the old expedition camp, but it was just these girls with you.

"Verso took Maelle and Monoco to look for something. They should be back soon," Lune commented before examining your leg.

"How long was I out?" You asked through a wince while she prodded at your bandage.

"About a day...although you were up a few times to puke through the night. We were afraid to move you back to camp, even with Esquie. You were...in pretty rough shape," Sciel responded.

You caught a glimpse of your mottled leg under the bandage and grimaced. It was dark and the scar looked rotten. Lune had done more than a fine job of closing up the wound.

"I remember you healing me, Lune. I can't thank you enough," you said quietly. She shook her head as she replaced the bandage.

"None needed. This is what we do for each other. We do what we must."

You caught her wrist and made to hold her hand, but her eyes got all weepy. "Lune, there's something I've been wanting to say and now feels as good a time as any since Verso isn't here. I'm so happy for you," you stated as best you could.

Lune's face held pure confusion as she looked from you to Sciel. Sciel shrugged. "What...do you mean?" Lune asked.

"I mean you and Verso. You don't have to deny it. I saw you two the other night at camp and the way he acts with you. I'm happy you found someone that cares for you."

Lune stared at you with wide eyes before busting out laughing. She ripped her hand out of yours to wipe tears from her eyes. It was your turn to look confused. "You...you think...Verso is into me?" She managed to get out between laughs.

Meanwhile, you and Sciel eyed each other, both confused as hell at whatever was happening. "Lune, you two have spent most nights in each other's company."

"You idiot," she smirked as her laughter finally calmed down. "He's been asking me about you. He's been so nervous about getting to know you. I guess it looked like we were together, but I did nothing but speak of you in private. Trust me, Verso only has eyes for you."

"Me?"

"Y/N?" Sciel asked at the same time.

Lune shook her head laughing and adjusted to sit on your left. Sciel sat on your right in a cozy gal pal circle...well, triangle.

"Y/N, I've been coaching Verso on how to approach you. Albeit, my advice doesn't seem to always work, but he's trying to get comfortable around you. He cares a lot for you," Lune shared and Sciel 'awwwed.' Your heart soared at the prospect of Verso inquiring after you.

"That...makes no sense. He practically told me I was a bad fighter and then had Monoco babysit me on our trek."

"He just didn't want to see you get hurt. He's...not the best with words yet, but his intentions were good, I promise," Lune offered.

The fire cracked and the sky grew darker. You weren't sure how much longer you had before the others returned, but your mind was still trying to make sense of Lune's admission.

"Soooo...you're not into Verso, then?" You asked quietly.

"No, Y/N. That's why I asked what you thought of him. I already gathered that he was into you, but I needed to know if you had any interest."

"Gods, I feel ridiculous," Sciel laughed.

"Why?" Lune questioned, eyes narrowed.

"I'm pretty sure I aggressively hit on Verso and few nights ago. Makes sense why he turned me down now." The three of you cackled and it felt just like old times in Lumiere. It took a minute or two to calm down from the laugh attack before you sighed.

"I am happy that you would have supported me if Verso and I were a thing," Lune said, squeezing your hang. "But, I have to know...you are into him right?"

You felt your cheeks heat and you looked down at your lap. "I'm very into him," you admitted.

"Okay good, because that man stayed up all night trying to keep you warm and he's currently out looking for sunflowers for you."

You opened your mouth to reply, but were cut off by Esquie's shouting coming through the clearing. "Mes amis! We return!"

Both Sciel and Lune stood up, the latter giving you a wink before checking on the food over the fire. You couldn't even imagine what you looked like after 24 hours of poison-fueled sickness, but there was no time to fix that.

It just registered to you that Verso's jacket was covering you since he approached the group in just his white shirt. You felt like you might explode with anticipation, which admittedly was better than feeling like you might puke again. Verso picked up his pace when he saw you were awake.

"She's awake and thankfully it looks like she's on the mend," Lune announced. She was stirring a stew of some sort - an expedition speciality to throw whatever you could find into a pot.

Verso's eyes met yours once in the camp perimeter and you caught a glimpse of a bundle of flowers in his hand. He immediately came to kneel by you. You could see the exhaustion lining his features before he forced a smile. "You're awake," he said in disbelief.

"I already said that," Lune chimed in. She grinned as she watched you two and you couldn't help but roll your eyes.

"Lune..." you warned. She laughed and turned around, but you sighed and noticed Sciel watching you too.

"Any chance you can help me to a more private location so we can chat?" You whispered to Verso. This time he gave you a real smile and nodded. He handed the flowers to Maelle and scooped you up in his arms. He might have looked exhausted, but the ease at which he carried you said otherwise. Maelle trailed behind with the flowers saying how relieved she was to see you recovering.

Verso brought you to a tree log around the corner and set you down gently before turning to Maelle. You shrugged his jacket off while he turned away, and as Maelle sauntered back to camp, you both turned to each other with an offering: his arm outstretched with a bouquet of wildflowers and your arm bearing his jacket.

"Thank you for the jacket, but it's getting cold and you may need it."

"Are you still cold?" He asked before sitting next to you.

"No, and I hear I have you to thank for that," you blushed. He took his jacket from your hands and slipped it on.

There was a moment where he didn't say anything, just contemplated the ground and refused to meet your eyes, but you didn't want to rush this conversation.

"I'm struggling to decide if I should yell or scream or cry over what you did yesterday, but I'm just...so happy you're alive," Verso said quietly. A shiver made its way up your spine at the vulnerability in his words.

"Me too. I'm forever indebted to you and the team for taking care of me. I wasn't thinking properly when we were attacked."

Verso gave a small nod and met your eyes. "What were you thinking?"

You laughed a bit to yourself. "Probably something along the lines of 'I'll show Verso how fast a dodger I am and how dare he think I'm a terrible fighter.'"

He raised an eyebrow at you. "I don't think you're a terrible -"

"But the louder part of my brain was thinking that I couldn't stand to see you get hurt. Even if you would recover," you cut him off. You could see him visibly swallow before reaching for your hand. His right hand gently covered your left and he stared at the connection for a moment.

"I was terrified," he whispered. "I'd never felt someone shake as violently as you did last night. I honestly wasn't sure you'd beat the poison. I kept checking your breathing when you weren't shaking just to make sure you were still with me." His eyes began to search yours, like he was making sure you really existed next to him.

With me. Your heart ached, this time for all the right reasons.

"I'm with you," you whispered back. The proximity of his face to yours allowed him to rest his forehead against yours and he closed his eyes. You wanted nothing more than to let him rest, but part of you wanted to soak this up as long as you could.

"Lune told me about your chats," you said quietly.

"Merde..." he laughed before pulling back a bit. You smiled and gripped his hand tighter.

"I'm sorry if I've been moody. I...was totally convinced that you and Lune had something going on."

"I royally fucked this up, haven't I?" He joked. You shook your head and reached for his jawline with your right hand. Your hand cupped his face and you swear his eyes melted at your contact.

"I don't remember when it happened, but these days one of the only things I'm sure of is that my heart belongs to you. I look at you and I'm sure that nothing else matters," you said shakily. He grasped your hand that was on his face and brought it to his lips, placing a light kiss on your knuckles.

"I remember exactly when it happened for me. You and Maelle were leading the charge on maybe my third day with your group. You were trying to cheer her up and kept showing her shapes you made with your ice magic. The way she finally broke when you made her that Esquie in a tiny hat... I'll never forget your smile or the kindness you showed her."

You'd actually forgotten that afternoon; it was distant compared to the trials you'd faced on your journey, but you smiled at the memory. That something so small could make him fall for you, but then you supposed it was just like the way you recounted the way he watched the sunset or the way he would re-challenge Sciel to cards when he lost.

It was all the small things.

"I, uh, I went looking for sunflowers today. Lune said they were your favorite," he grumbled. He leaned away to reach for the bouquet and presented it to you. "But I couldn't find any."

"Too early," you smiled. "They won't bloom until summer.

He smiled back as you accepted the flowers. "But I did find these other yellow ones that I thought maybe you'd like and then these lavenders - I remember you said purple was your favorite color. The kind of purple that fades into the sunset."

It was the most beautiful bundle of purples, whites, and yellows you'd ever hold. "It's perfect, Verso. I love them. I wish you'd have gotten some rest today, though."

He brought his arm around you, warming you against the early evening temperature. "I wouldn't have been able to anyways."

It was comfortable, the way his hand found your ribcage and his thumb moved up and down gently. You stared at the flowers while you allowed the weight of your head to rest against his shoulder. "My mom used to get sunflowers at the market every spring. She'd plant them in our roof garden and then every summer I'd watch them sprout until they were taller than me."

He chuckled and the vibrations from his chest brought a smile to your face. "It sounds like you were very fond of your mother."

You nodded and continued, "she used to say sunflowers were innocent. They always found the sun and when they couldn't find the sun, they would turn to each other. Sunflowers were truly always finding the light, whether literally or within each other. I always loved that."

Verso gently pulled away and brought his hand up to cup your cheek. The way his eyes crinkled looking into yours told you that he was truly happy.

"That's what you are to me - a sunflower. Your positive attitude and the way you continue to support the team will always make me turn to you, even when it's dark." His words made your eyes crinkle back and brought a toothy smile to your lips.

It wasn't until you felt him leaning towards you that you placed a hand on his chest to stop him. "Verso, this moment is literally perfect, but we can't kiss right now." His face turned to immediate confusion. "I'm pretty sure I threw up a dozen times in the last day and I have yet to clean myself up," you stated with a laugh.

Verso let out the loudest laugh you'd heard from him yet and he shook his head. He placed a kiss on your forehead and agreed, "Alright, no kiss tonight, but I'm looking forward to when I can properly romance you."

"Me too, and perhaps when Sciel isn't spying on us," you said loudly, turning to the rock formation where you knew she was listening.

"Putain!" She shrieked before running away. Both you and Verso laughed again before he rested his forehead against yours and you took in the miracle that was your sunflower.

#clair obscur #expedition 33 #clair obscur: expedition 33 #verso dessendre #verso fanfic #verso imagine #verso x reader #clair obscur fanfic #coe33 #verso #expedition 33 fanfic

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exosmutfactory · 5 years ago

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Six Phases 005 Pt 1

Who knew it nearly took 6 months to win your heart, and 6 phases for Baekhyun to lose his mind.

A/N: Hi, welcome to a 22.6K MONSTER of a chapter. Thank you.

[ contains: romance, fluff, angst, & smut ]

•⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •

The club is more alive than ever tonight. Almost everyone has taken to the dance floor and the place is packed everywhere with grinding bodies. It's not hard getting lost in the crowd.

I can barely see over the majority of the crowd in my stilettos. You'd think my current 5'10 height would make it easier to spot Baekhyun in the room, but nope, the flashing of lights and mass of bodies could conceal a damn pink polka dotted elephant from your eyes.

After spinning around to avoid the elbow of a particularly non-coordinated individual, I nearly crashed into the person behind me. "Excuse m-" My eyes widen at the familiar head of silver hair before I smile, "Hey."

Baekhyun chuckles, settling his hands on my hips; a brow raised in amusement, "Hello." He huskily replies; locks of hair attractively dangling in his eyes. He's adoring a red shirt with white scripted words all over it, black leather pants that make his thighs look scrumptious, and black heeled boots to match. Looking like a full course meal as always—and even more so than usual with that alluring look in his kohl outlined eyes.

Quickly reeling in my steadily-rising urges, I keep moving to the tempo of the moderate-paced music; loosely wrapping my arms around his neck, "What took so long? I thought I lost you for a second."

"Minseok hyung went on a tangent over how much business has been booming since he incorporated cheerwine-vodka drinks to the bar." He chuckles again, twirling me around with an adorable smile. "Your southern delicacy is really popular around here."

I grin, "It's the best of the best."

Baekhyun hums, pulling me closer and tilting his head to plant a kiss on my cherry red lips; causing me to giggle. "What?" He looks at me, smiling adorably.

"Nothing." I smile bashfully; cheeks warmed from the gesture.

"Come on," Spinning me around again, he suddenly dips my body; making me gasp as his hand rests securely on my back and lips brush against mine. Warm minty breath caressing my cheek, "Tell me."

"I-I just..." Locking eyes as he pulls me back up, I can't help but flush at his adoring stare. "Being with you, like this." I gesture to the dancefloor; blissfully unbothered by the pleasantly chaotic environment, and the thundering pound of music with him—and his firm body—so close and so warm. His comforting presence brings a smile to my lips, "It's nice."

His smile widens, a look of understanding flashing in his brown eyes. "I knew you had a kink for dancing with me."

Choking on a laugh, I smack his bicep; leaning on him for support as his contagious amusement rings in my ears. Would it be too mushy of me to say how utterly adorable Baekhyun is when he smiles like this? All bright crescent moon eyes, glowy cheeks and a boxy grin that I just want to kiss right off his pouty lips. His smile could light up the whole galaxy, not even the sun can deny that.

"And what if I do?" I murmur lowly, sliding my hand up his arm and down his chest; feeling the lean muscle underneath. "You got quiet," I muse, flickering my eyes up to his; quickly gulping at the pure lust swirling in his brown orbs.

Baekhyun grabs my wrist and slides my hand back up his chest, holding eye contact as he sucks my finger between his lips. The piercing gaze in his dark orbs making me sway out of rhythm—something he catches with a winning smirk. He tightens his grip on my hip, leaning to whisper into my ear, "Then I'm willing to fulfill your needs, baby."

Gulping at his deliberate lick of lips, a new song breaks me out of our little bubble. The familiar 8-count instrumental seems to trigger Baekhyun's memory as well; his hand releasing mine as I kick off my heels before his stable singing voice reaches my surprised ears.

"She got the mmm, brown eyes, caramel thighs. Long hair, no wedding ring," He gives a cute little nod, raising his brow attractively, "hey." He walks closer, causing me to step back to fully admire his confident aura. "I saw you lookin' from across the way. And now I really wanna know your name..."

He continues in that hypnotizing way of his—little sinful body rolls and confident crotch grabs—holding eye contact as if the words are meant for me; mouthing along with a satisfied smirk on his inviting lips.

"I love her hips, curves, lips say the words." He lightly brushes his hands over my thighs and up my waist, walking around to whisper into my individual ears along with the beat. "Te amo, mami, ah, te amo, mami."

"I kiss her, this love is like a dream..."

He brings my hand to his shoulder while grasping my other one, stepping forward as I step back in synchronization; meeting him toe to toe.

"So join me in this bed that I’m in

Push up on me and sweat, darling

So I'm gonna put my time in

And won’t stop until the angels sing-"

He spins me around and brings me back into his arms, swaying to the beat with my back to his chest and our joined hands resting on my hip. Matching smiles on our lips.

"Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me

Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me"

Spinning away, I turn to face Baekhyun, throwing his moves right back at him with a wink, "He got that mmm, green eyes, givin' me signs. That he really wants to know my name—hey. I saw you lookin' from across the way. And suddenly, I'm glad I came, ay-"

Gathering the skirt of my white dress, I dance light on my feet around him as the speakers burst out Spanish lyrics; smiling playfully at the captivated look in his eyes. "Mmm, green eyes, takin' your time. Now we know we'll never be the same."

"I love his lips 'cause he says the words," Putting my back to him, I arch my back, coyly peeking over each shoulder at him and slightly rolling my body against his to the beat, "Te amo, mami, ah, te amo, mami."

"Don’t wake up, this love is like a dream... So join me in this bed-"

Pressing my back to him again, we move in sync; heated skin to skin with only our thin clothes between. Barriers that don't even matter with my hand in his hair and his tight grip on my hips.

"-that I’m in

Push up on me and sweat, darling

So I'm gonna put my time in (Time in)

And won’t stop until the angels sing-"

Being cheeky, I slide my hands up my body while we sway side to side; resting my hand on the back of his neck.

"Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me

Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me."

He spins me around to him once again. Our eyes locked as we let ourselves get lost in the rest of the song.

"Flawless diamonds

In a green field near Buenos Aires

Until the sun's rising

We won't stop until the angels sing..."

The piercing gaze in his dark eyes is almost too much for me to bear; warm, slender fingers digging further into the soft swell of my hips with every twist of my waist.

"Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me

Jump in that water, be free

Come south of the border with me"

The song quickly fades into another, but Baekhyun and I don’t move. Chests pressed together and shared heavy breaths. His freshly dyed grey hair leaving streaks of silver sliding down his cheeks. Long strands of hair messily clinging to his forehead, sweat shining on his prominent collarbones and peek of a firm chest. His lick of lips as he takes the chance to check me out as well pushing me to my limit.

"Take me home." I breathe, pressing my lips to his.

"Shit." Baekhyun hisses, pausing to brush his hair back.

I can't help but chuckle, kicking off my heels and bending over to pick up the fallen table, "Told you keeping the lights off was a bad-" I jolt forward with a gasp, bracing myself against the wall with red cheeks. The accusatory look I shoot over my shoulder does nothing to change the hungry expression on his face, "The fuck did you just do, Byun?"

He tilts his head at me, hand resting comfortably on the curve of my ass, "You liked it." He observes, rubbing my throbbing cheek; lifting the corner of his lips, "Didn't you?"

I scoff in opposition to the redness of my cheeks, "That's not-" A moan escapes before I can clasp my hands over my mouth, staring at him with wide eyes.

Baekhyun merely raises a brow as his hand slips from my heated skin and down between my legs, full-on smirking at what he discovers there. He leans close, pressing his chest to my sensitive back. "You're soaked," He murmurs into my ear; gripping my hip when my legs shake at his light exploration.

I part my lips only to whimper at the smack he lands on my left cheek, quickly becoming breathless at his light taps on my clothed clit. "F-Fuck-" My back arches when he suddenly pulls away, flipping the skirt of my dress over my back and yanking my panties down in one go, "Baekhyun-" I nearly yell, knees buckling at the rough intrusion of two fingers into my wet core.

"Shh," He leans forward again, smacking my ass as his fingers pound into me, "Be a good girl for me."

I choke and scramble to find something to hold on to when he twists his wrist, curling his fingers right into my sweet spot. Neat, blunt nails lightly scratching against my clenching walls as my hands slip helplessly on the wall, "B-Baekhyun." I whimper, squeezing my eyes shut. Just when I'm at the edge and slowly lowering to the ground with shaky knees, he fucking pulls his fingers out.

At this point, the only thing keeping me on my feet is the acute annoyance I feel towards him right now.

"Bedroom." He states, slipping wet fingers past his kiss-swollen lips after I stand up and turn around to glare at him. He merely lifts a brow, hand still on my hip as he sucks obscenely loud on the slick digits; wicked tongue peeking out from his smirking lips.

Inwardly cursing him and myself, I walk further into the spacious apartment on wobbly legs. Crossing my arms once I enter the black, white and grey with a dash of red—thanks to me—styled room.

Baekhyun takes his sweet old time joining me. Slipping out of his shoes and socks before pressing me against the wall. Chest pressed to mine as he reconnects our lips, reaching down to pull my leg around his waist.

My nails dig mercilessly into his shoulders when he slides his fingers back inside me; arching my back at the addition of his thumb tapping my poor clit. One well-aimed thrust to my spot makes my knee buckle, gasping for breath and tensing up in preparation only for him to pull his fingers out again.

Baekhyun looks down at me with the darkest eyes; pupils blown wide as his hand rubs over my lower back and down to cup my ass. "You're shaking," He whispers, tightening his grip and hoisting me up into his arms before walking over to the bed. Setting me down gently with a soft kiss pressed to my lips.

I sit up to pull off my dress, "Don't you fucking dare." I hiss at his fingers walking up my thigh, crossing my quivering legs.

Baekhyun chuckles, pulling his shirt over his head, "Don't you want me to make you feel good, baby?"

"I... Yes..." Distracted by his glistening chest, I twitch at the feeling of his sneaky hand slipping between my thighs, fixing him with a glare. "Not stopping when I'm right there." I grumbled, jaw clenching at the persistent ache in my core.

"Does my baby want to come?" He coos, sliding off his leather pants before climbing onto the bed. Gaze locked on mine as he pulls my underwear off my legs.

Gulping at his predator stance, I sit like a deer caught in headlights, panting when his hands softly spread my heated thighs. His lips brushing over my inner thigh makes my back arch. "I'll literally flip if you stop again."

He hums noncommittally, leisurely leaving a trail of wet kisses up to where I need him the most. I close my eyes, trembling a little when his lip brushes over my folds.

Baekhyun hovers, and I can feel his eyes on me.

I know exactly what he wants.

Gulping again I nervously lick my lips, slowly peeling my eyes open to look back at him.

He releases his bottom lip from between his teeth, wordlessly holding up his palm in my direction with twinkling orbs.

The hot blush forming on my cheeks and small trembles in my body do nothing to ease my giddy heart as I gingerly place my shaky hand in his. Baekhyun's soft squeeze and sweet smile melts me further until he's flicking his tongue against my heated core. My grip tightens with every whimper and gasp he pulls from my lips. Barely a few minutes have gone by when my thighs start shaking again.

"Always so sweet for me," He murmurs, pulling away as I catch my breath. His warm skin brushes against my own as he leaves a trail of kisses back up to my lips, "Babe?"

Humming I blink the post-orgasm daze from my eyes, meeting his questioning orbs. Breath hitching at the feel of his cock rubbing along my thigh. "Yes," I breathe, biting my lip at his promising smile.

Baekhyun reaches over to the nightstand drawer, pulling out a condom as my cheeks flush. The way he rips the packet open from between his teeth stirs the fire growing in the pit of my stomach; an unintentional tease to upcoming events—or intentional based off the knowing smirk on his equally flushed face.

I can't help but scoff at his antics, trying my best not to squirm when his cock brushes over my sensitive pussy; growing impossibly redder and wetter at the thought of the word as he insists to tease over my wet folds. I never imagined myself referring to it in that way, let alone while my boyfriend is looking down at me like I'm his last meal.

Seriously, I swear the twinkle in his eye rivals the one he reserves for hawaiian pizza right now. And the groan that escapes his lips while finally sliding his cock into my waiting core making my breath hitch… Fuck me.

I never really saw myself actually enjoying the act of sex or fucking or whatever. Yes—I will admit—I probably think about sex more times than anyone should in a day, but to actually do it? To give someone one of the most precious things to me and enjoy it on the first night? Yeah, not how I saw myself evolving. Then again, who can ever predict how their first time will go? Who can predict a Baekhyun walking into their life? Surely not I, nor how much I appreciate the slight stretch of accommodating his impressive length.

—Okay, maybe I enjoy sex with Baekhyun more than the thought of sex itself—

A noise I never thought I could make escapes my lips when he gathers my body closer to his; hips grinding at a new angle into my core with dark brown eyes watching my every move and swallowing me whole. Fuck it—yes, I definitely enjoy it with him more.

"Are you close?" He murmurs, kissing behind my ear in a way that makes me squeak.

"Y-Yes." I sigh, clutching onto his shoulders and gasping when he increases the tempo, "Fuck."

Baekhyun chuckles huskily into my ear, his breath causing goosebumps to cover my heated skin. I don't even try to stifle my moan when his cock hits my sweet spot just right. A beautiful noise of his own leaving his lips as my walls clench around him. I'm still so sensitive from earlier there is no coaxing needed to make me cum on his cock.

Baekhyun's gasp fans over the sensitive skin of my neck; a sneaky hand slipping between my legs while I'm trying to catch my own breath. My thighs tighten around his waist and hips buck from the prolonged sensations. Somehow he manages to pull one last orgasm from me as he's reaching his own; kiss swollen lips beautifully parted and head thrown back while filling the condom. There's no relaxing myself with the way he stays buried deep inside my clenching walls. If that condom wasn’t on… I quickly shake off that dangerous thought.

The feeling of Baekhyun's chest pressed to mine with our frantic heartbeats and shared breaths combined with his breathless kiss to my lips has a whole new wave of emotion bursting through my being. I love him so much it kinda hurts.

"Happy?" He muses, leaning up to run a hand through his messy hair, looking me over with those mesmerizing brown eyes of his. A soft smile playing at his lips. I don't reply, too busy trying to regulate my breathing while lying completely lax against the sheets. Not at all ashamed to take in the glorious sight of his flushed cheeks and glistening chest amidst the afterglow, and leaning up to press another kiss to his sweet mouth. “Very.” I murmur, lips curling up into a smile that matches his own.

////

There's nothing like waking up to a blarming alarm at 7:30 in the morning after a particularly long night that states “MEETING WITH THE BROS/HOES” in all caps. Especially after partying—and partaking in the “after party”—the previous night. Why did I agree to meet at the coffee shop on a Sunday morning? Oh, right.. Baekhyun was supposed to drive me back to the dorm last night…

:) Well then.

I mean, it wouldn't have been so bad if I had actually managed to get out of bed when my alarm went off this morning.

Now here I stand, hastily fixing my appearance in the reflection of the cafe window. Making sure the collar of my backless crop-top is up and freshly made curls are covering stray blemishes on my skin.

The events of last night fill my mind before I promptly shake my head, clearing my throat as I step through the door.

"Well look who it is!" A warm voice chimes. I look up from checking my outfit again to an amused Jongin, watchful Jenny, and Sehun waving like a madman from our booth. Quickly making my way across the room with red cheeks while avoiding the annoyed looks of onlookers seated around.

"Nice of you to finally join us," Jenny muses, knowing blue eyes following me as I plop down into the remaining seat next to her. "If you didn't call the other night I'd swear Baek put you in a sex-induced coma."

Snorting, I quietly take a sip from the steaming mug seated in front of me; savoring the taste of lemon ginger tea and setting it carefully back on the table. "Nothing of the sort happened."

"Really?" She squints a little, Sehun and Jongin watching on in amusement, "You got that glow about you right now."

Instinctively looking off to the left, my cheeks grow warmer at Jongin's chuckle. I can't even throw Baekhyun under the bus for how he held me up last night, or this morning; trying my best not to bite my lip. Another type of sex added to the favorites list. "I just slept really well."

"Uh, huh," Jenny nods, taking a sip of her own cup with a knowing smile on her face. "I bet you did."

"Anyway," I deflect, looking between the trio. "How are you guys? It’s been awhile."

"I'm convinced that my intern is a complete dumbass," Sehun grumbles, finishing his coffee and sitting back with his arms crossed over his chest.

"Uh, oh," I utter, trying not to smile at the petulant expression on his normally blank features, "What he do this time?"

"I caught him trying to spot check a guy doing 50 reps of bench press with 200 pounds." He tries to explain as a waitress brings over plates full of muffins fresh out the oven. Recalling a brief conversation of this particularly risk-taking kid, I can't help smiling while digging into my strawberry one. "Maybe he's good at it."

He sighs, running a hand through his hair. "Riley, this kid looks like a twig would be too much for him-"

"Now that's a lie," I immediately interject, pointing my fork at him. "If that was the case you would have turned him away on the spot. Did you ask him how much he lifts?" Sehun begrudgingly nods, lips still childishly pursed. "Good, now give the poor kid more credit. He's probably stronger than you think."

"But-"

"Have a little faith in him," I soothe. "If you're really worried then make sure you are there next time to observe and intervene if needed, but you have to let him do something." I emphasize, "So he can improve."

Sehun sits quietly for a few minutes, thinking it over as the rest of us fuss over the arrangement of identical glasses and sneaky hands (Jongin) stealing food from others' plates. "Damn it, why do you have to be right."

"Comes with the territory." I grin, referring to our matching stickers childishly stuck to the back of our phone cases. It happened during a recent drunken night at the newest bar in town. Donkey and Shrek; some days I'm one of them and oftentimes he's the other.

"Just my luck to befriend an intellectually logical yet empathic person," He mumbles, sipping his coffee with a small smile quirking at his lips.

"That's best friend to you!" I retort, glaring at his mischievous smirk before turning to Jongin. "How bout you man? What's cooking?"

His brow raises, amusement shining in his eyes at my poor attempt to not laugh at my own joke. "The kids got a residual coming up," He utters, thoughtfully chewing on a piece of strawberry muffin I swear he took from the top of mine.

"Oh?" I hum, taking the extra muffin Sehun offers me before blinking in realization. "Oh! Really? When is it?"

"This Saturday," A certain kind of sparkle is in his normally brooding eyes, small smile on display. "It's the last one before school starts."

"Yeah," I wince, staring down into my swirling mug with a frown, "Don't remind me. I still got books to get."

"What year will you be in this year?" Jongin inquires, brow raised when I only give him a deadpan look. "What?"

"Really?"

He shrugs, "How am I supposed to know what year you’re in?"

"Anyway!" Jenny chirps while I take another sip of my drink, judging him over the rim of my mug. "There's a party going on at Jongdae's this Friday." Her eyes are already lighting up at the thought of what she's planning to wear—or at the prospect of having an excuse to be with a certain brunet for the entire evening. "Are you going?"

Humming a bit in thought, I lightly shake my head, setting my drink down. "I think I'll pass."

"But why?" She protests, puppy eyes in full effect while I quickly avert my eyes. I'm not about to fall for that trick again. "...It isn't because of Baekhyun, is it?"

My neck cracks a little as I whip around to face her; temples pulsing with a painful whiplash, "And why would Baekhyun have anything to do with it?"

"Bro, you are like attached at the hip," Jongin states with a raised brow, idly twirling a spoon around his fingertips.

"Has he been to a party since he moved?" Sehun lifts his head from the phone in his hands, slipping it into his back pocket when I give him the side-eye.

"Well-" I pause, thinking back over the past two months. They are kind of right in a way. I spend more time having lunch dates in Baekhyun's office than sleeping in on Saturday mornings. There's more of my clothes neatly stacked on the left side of his closet than my own back at the dorms. And I swear I didn't purposely stash his favorite black hoodie in my backpack...

(I did. I totally did and I don't know when I'll give it back).

"…No," I conclude, stirring my drink.

Sehun makes a ‘mmhm’ noise, leaning back in his seat while Jongin snorts, shooting me a knowing look. "The wild princess changing playboy Baekhyun's ways."

I scowl as Jenny nods, throwing an arm over my shoulders with the cheekiest smile, "Who would have thought, right?"

"You all suck." I groan, hiding within my folded arms on the table. "...I'm going."

"Yes!" Jenny squeals, clapping her hands in glee and outstretching one out to the shell-shocked man across from her, "Pay up, Jongin."

"Riley, I was rooting for you." He protests, handing a 20 over with a disappointed frown.

I merely look over at Sehun, raising a brow when he's quick to hold up his hands. "I wouldn't. You're very 50/50 lately."

"Oh that's very reassuring," I grumble, sipping my warm drink; not fighting the smile curling at the corners of my lips. "Good thing I bought that new dress."

"What!?" Jenny gasps, lightly shoving my shoulder when my smile just widens. "I swear you never wear the same dress."

"Perks of having a CEO boyfriend," Jongin muses, washing down a muffin with some coffee.

"Nah," I set the empty mug back on the table, shaking my head. "I saved up a lot from my part-time job."

"Part-time job?" Jenny inquires, lowering her phone down to her lap while looking at me. "When did you get one of those?"

"She had one before school," Sehun explains, continuing after my agreeing hum; giving him a thumbs up with a mouthful of muffin. "A well-off flower shop, I believe."

"Wow." Jenny blinks, narrowing her eyes at me. "You're just full of surprises."

"It was nice," I mumble, dabbling my lips with a napkin, "Besides the fact I have mild pollen allergy."

Jongin snorts and I grin, enduring Sehun's amusement and Jenny's continuous scoldings as the morning sun rises higher in the sky.

I checked my makeup in the mirror one last time: a fierce copper glitter, smokey eye look to match my sexy black lace sleeveless dress with see-through sides. The form-fitting material complementing my every curve. Even lingerie is out of the question with this daring dress, but I have no fear. Stretch marks can't be easily seen in the dim lighting of a drunken party, and my lips are coated in a glossy pink shade to not kill too many men in the crowd tonight.

Leaning away from the mirror while recapping my gloss, I set it down next to my phone that lights up with a notification.

I miss you （>﹏<）♡o(╥﹏╥)o ♥♡

8:28pm

Giggling with an adoring smile, I maneuver around my baby pink manicured nails to type a response.

I miss you too, baby. Take care at the office, okay?

The day is almost over! 4 more hours to go. You can do it :***

8:30pm

A few heart emojis shared later and a knock sounds at the door. I grab my phone, sparkly golden clutch and walk over with even strides; the clinks of my nude high heels against the floor blooming more confidence in my chest. The sight of a familiar head of blue hair greets me on the other side of the doorway.

"Hey," Jenny perks up, spinning around, "You ready?" One look at my outfit and she smirks, raising an eyebrow knowingly as I take in her matching cocktail dress. "Oh honey, we are going to be sharks tonight."

Giggling I loop my arm around hers, our respective heels clicking down the residential apartment complex halls.

"So," She adjusts her hair in the reflection of the elevator, carefully pulling curls from inside of her dangling turquoise earrings. "What are your plans for tonight?"

"Plans?" I raise a brow, briefly meeting her gaze while meticulously evening out my gloss in my handheld mirror.

"Dancing, drinking, going home early," She lists off her turquoise manicured nails with a nod, nonchalantly leaning against the railing on the far wall. "Did you even tell Baekhyun you were going out tonight?"

A chill goes down my spine as I put my things away, and I don't know why. "Tell him?" I chuckle, rubbing my goosebump covered arms.

Jenny continues to nod, long nails tapping rapidly across her phone. "Mhm." She hums, voice filled with a level of concern that has my head tilting in confusion. "He's a worrier, you know?"

My brows furrow at that. "...It'll be fine," I mumble after a minute, trying to convince myself. Based on the look she shoots my way it didn't reassure her either. "Besides, he's working late tonight," My heart sinks a little at the reminder; I shrug it off. "I won't see him til the morning anyway."

She meets my eye over the illuminated screen of her phone; perfectly shaped brow raised. "If you're sure."

"Yes, Jen." I stress in exaggeration, placing my cold hands on my hips. "What's the worst that can happen?"

She says nothing as the double doors open, quietly putting away her phone as we exit side by side. A gust of wind meets us the instant we step outside.

"Maybe he's over it..." I hear her mutter under her breath.

The screeching of tires startles us before I can say anything. A familiar shiny black Mercedes pulls up to the curb; bass booming from the cranked up stereo speakers.

"Ready ladies?" Jongin's smirking face appears through the rolled down window; his arm resting comfortably on the window seal, free hand gesturing to his vehicle. "Your chariot awaits."

Jenny scoffs as I muffle a giggle. Before we can take a step forward, another voice rings out over the music.

"Get in already! You're letting out all the cold air." Sehun complains.

A scoff leaves me at that. "You're not the one navigating stilettos, Oh!" I yell right back, climbing into the backseat as Jenny takes the passenger side; her laughter filling up the spacious car.

Jongdae's party wasn't as exciting as I thought it would be. The usual partygoers were there except for talented bartender Minseok, brooding Kyungsoo, enthusiastic Chanyeol, and of course Baekhyun. Such a little difference left a major impact in the handling of drinks, (I had to run down to the convenience store with Sehun to get him to buy us dr pepper and a bottle of cheap vodka to share. Perks of being 21). The selection of music—I honestly never knew that techno dubstep could leave my head pounding harder than any hard liquor. And the state of the dance floor… Between the crushed solo cups and unidentifiable fluids littering the wooden floors, it's a far cry from any event Baekhyun has had.

"Shit." I hiss, clutching my throbbing knee. Struggling to insert the key into the apartment door while balancing on one unsteady foot. The door is yanked open before I can make a third attempt. I blink, slowly lifting my eyes up to a disheveled Baekhyun; his silver hair in a disarray and white dress shirt partially unbuttoned. My heart skips at the sight; a smile soon forming on my lips, "Baekhyunee-"

He steps out the reach of my open arms, swiftly turning to head back inside, leaving the door open.

I hover in the doorway for a moment with a frown, feeling a bit apprehensive while stepping over the threshold. Maybe it was a bad day at the office? His subordinates have been giving him a hard time lately, making decisions without his approval only to leave him to fix their mess in the end. Plus the rumors of a mole trying to catch a peek at his upcoming fashion line designs isn’t ideal. With great power comes great responsibility... I don't know how Baekhyun does it.

I peek inside to find him pacing the wooden floor with heavy footsteps. His neighbors surely won't like that.

"Where were you?" He stops in the middle of the living room, watching me with keen eyes. There's nothing exciting about the darkness I find there.

"Where was I?" I mumble quietly, gently pulling the door closed behind me. Hesitating to even lock it.

"Where were you?" He steps closer and it takes everything in me not to recoil under his predatory stance. Frustration clear in his voice with a sense of poorly concealed panic in his eyes.

What's wrong? I want to ask; worriedly glancing over the obvious exhaustion written all over his face.

"Why haven't you been returning my calls?" His wild gestures towards his device innocently sitting on the arm of the couch remind me of my own tucked away in my clutch; still on airplane mode. His black blazer is even left in a heap on the floor. "How are you going to ask to spend the night yet when I come back you're-"

"I went out," I simply shrug with a twitch of my lips; guilt and slight annoyance bubbling in my chest at the doubtful expression forming on his tired face. "It's a Friday night, Baekhyun."

"Without telling me?" He points to himself. "No call, text or anything?" His eyes trail over my person, hovering over my new dress; brown eyes indifferent instead of the awe I wanted to find there. He scoffs after a moment, shaking his head. "Very responsible of you."

"I'm sorry?" I laugh a little in disbelief fighting the urge to hide away from his scrutinizing gaze. "What are you, my father?"

"Sometimes it feels like it." He grits out, lips curling up into a mocking smile.

My hands drop down to my sides at that. "If you were so worried," I continue despite the bad taste in my mouth; crossing my arms and staring him down, "You could have contacted Jenny."

"How do I know you were with her?" He chuckles bitterly, roughly running a hand through his ruffled hair. A disgusted look crossing his face as he spits out, "How do I know you weren't out fucking Jong-"

"Excuse me?" I breathe, placing a hand to my chest with wide eyes; my heart somewhere between being shattered at my feet and beneath the lump forming in my throat.

He pauses, suddenly at a loss for words before spinning on his heel.

"Oh no." I chuckle at his audacity. "Finish that sentence, Baek. Go ahead." My voice is sugar sweet while following him to the hallway; steadily deepening with my building rage. "Go a fucking head."

He stops, deciding to get in my face then. Looking me over in disdain and hissing venomously. "You were out fucking Jongin."

"Do you have a height complex or something...?" I chuckle in disbelief, hand on my hip while pushing him back with the other. "Don't come accusing me of anything just because of your insecurities." Lifting my chin, I murmur. "You either talk to me like a fucking adult or I let you talk to the wall because I am sick of your shit."

"I'm sick of you too," He shoots back, hurt clear in his glistening brown eyes, swiftly turning to storm off down the end of the hallway.

A tired sigh leaves my lips while shaking my pounding head; feeling a headache coming on. "You promised not to go to bed angry!" I yell after him, leaning against the wall to tug off my annoying heels.

"I'm not angry." He growls, slamming the door to the guest bedroom shut.

I jolt at the startling noise, rubbing the back of my neck; muttering sourly under my breath. "Not angry my ass..."

We barely speak a word to each other for the rest of the weekend. He either leaves a room every time I enter it or downright acts like I'm not even there. Patience wearing thin, I repack my overnight bag shoved deep under the bottom of his bed from months of being unused and start sleeping back at the dorms. Although it is rightfully my room too, I still feel like I'm guiltily crashing there with how much I've been gone lately. Jenny doesn't mind though.

"I've missed the company." She reassures, helping me apply a face mask.

"...Do you think I was being unreasonable?" I mumble, looking down at the container in my hands.

Her sigh is a long one. "Well." She nods, smoothing the cream out on my skin, "The height comment was below the belt. And you could have shot him a text."

"I had my phone on silent..." I mumble in remorse, glancing over the 30 worry-filled messages and 5 calls he sent to me the other night. Not a peep has been heard out of him since, not even when I reminded him where the cute teapot set is for his adorable tuesday tea time…

"You were a bit harsh. But." She continues, raising her clean hand when I begin to object, "He had no right accusing you of cheating." The disgusted look on her face matches the tone in her voice. "Like what the fuck? Who cheats on the best dick in town-"

"Jenny!"

"Kidding!" She laughs, dodging my hand, sporting a serious expression again. "In all seriousness. Baekhyun has trust issues…" She trails off, blinking before I can identify the odd look in her eyes. "And sadly, I'm not surprised."

"Really?" I keep still as she nods, applying more cream across my forehead. "...Do you know what happened?"

She winces, gently taking the container from my hands. "I think it is something you should ask him about yourself." She mumbles, avoiding my gaze.

Sighing, I nod, leaning forward to apply some cream across her nose. The information—or lack thereof—is stuck in my head for days afterwards.

Yeah, nearly a whole damn week goes by before I hear from Baekhyun's stubborn ass again… And I end up being the one to make the first move.

It took ten agonizing minutes of debating with myself before daring to press the first number on my speed dial. Desperate times calls for desperate measures… And I'm this close to losing it.

"Hello?"

I release a shaky breath, heart pounding in my ears. Just that word alone eases a bit of the tight feeling in my chest. I have never, ever been more grateful to hear his voice as I pace the luxurious lobby; anxiously glancing up at the intimidating label of Park's Publishing on the far wall. Trying my hardest not to bite on my freshly white-tipped nails.

"Riley?" He speaks up, bringing me out of my unrelenting thoughts, "...Baby?"

"B-Baekhyun." I whimper, fist clenched by my side; fighting the urge to wrinkle my perfectly ironed pencil skirt, or worse, bolt.

A distant voice says something unidentifiable and a door closes before he speaks again; honey voice closer than before, "What is it? What's wrong?"

A tiny noise barely escapes my shaking lips; I plop myself down on a leather chair. "I don't think I can do this." I gasp out, tears stinging behind my eyes.

"Do what?" He continues a bit frantic, rustling papers sounding over the line, “Tell me what's going on, baby. Where are you?"

My voice barely reaches a whisper. "I-Interview."

The rustling stops and he releases a deep sigh; going quiet. It snaps me out of my panicked daze and riles me up in a fit all over again.

"I-I'm sorry," I blabber, rapidly blinking back tears, "You must be busy and I shouldn't-"

"Baby," He soothes and I pause, listening to his voice. "Listen to me."

I nod wordlessly, taking in his every word.

"You are going to do amazing." He begins. "You're going to go in there, answer their questions and blow them away with your input." He insists, that CEO persona in his voice. "They are going to love you and you are going to get that position. Do you hear me?"

"Y-Yes," I whisper, clutching onto the phone.

"Good. You got this," He softens, smile being heard through his voice, "I believe in you, okay?"

"Okay," I hush, bashfully fiddling with the bottom of my skirt; peeking over at the waving secretary trying to get my attentionand straightening up, "I-I got to go. It's time…"

"They are gonna love you baby," He shushes. "But not more than I do."

A smile makes its way to my lips; my heart racing for a different reason entirely. Even when in the middle of a cold war, he still manages to make my heart flutter. "Thank you, Baekhyun." His reassuring hum resonates in my being; warming me up from my sore feet to my cold fingertips.

With quick partings, I hang up the phone and make my way over to the secretary standing by a door. Taking a deep breath before entering the spacious room. Let the games begin.

Three days later, I get an email in the middle of lunch; damn near sending Sehun's poor ham sandwich flying across the room.

"Sehun!!" I squeal, jumping out my seat; phone in hand.

"Wha—What?!!" He exclaims, trying to stop me from excitedly slapping his arms.

"Sehun!!!! I-" He finally catches my hand making me pause, taking a look around the silent cafe. Onlookers watching us with their brows raised. "Just a job interview. Carry on." Turning back to him with red cheeks, I quietly shout, "I got the job!"

His eyes widen before I'm pulled into a bear hug, my laughter muffled in the soft fabric of his black t-shirt.

Everyone is elated at the news, congratulating me at our next meet up in Minseok's new bar. The atmosphere is homey despite all the new faces.

"Congrats man," Chanyeol claps a hand on my shoulder in passing, smiling over the glass of bourbon in his hand while taking the seat next to Sehun. My best friend fist bumps me from the left side of the table before turning to the grinning man.

"Thanks, bro," I chuckle, watching Minseok work on the countertop in the distance with my chin in my palm. Many regulars chat him up over strong shots and fruity cocktails. "He sure is the favorite here, huh?"

"Oh yeah," Chanyeol nods while Jenny leans in across the other side of the table to whisper in my ear. "Although he doesn't play for any team."

"Really?" I whisper back with wide eyes, smiling at her confirming nod. "Good for him then."

"Excuse me, coming through." Minseok’s cheery voice is easy to hear amongst the lively bar chatter, sporting that signature smile of his; a tray full of drinks clutched firmly in his hands. "Order for table four!" He beams, setting the drinks in front of us. The usual for me, brandy for Sehun, and a Sex on the Beach for Jenny. "What's the special occasion, hmm?" He teases, rubbing his hands on the towel at his waist.

"Don't act like you don't check the group chat," Chanyeol complains, looking over at the chuckling man as he takes the empty seat across from him. Jenny scoots over to give him more room. "Riley got her first major job."

"Really?" He continues to smile, a twinkle in his eye while glancing over at me. "The baby grew huh?"

"She has left the nest." Sehun nods, ruffling my hair despite my protests; arching a brow at Jenny. "Where are Jongin and Baekhyun by the way? I understand Jongdae, but-"

"Oh would you look at that," She looks over her shoulder towards the door behind me with a relieved smile, drawing my attention there as well. "You talked them up."

Two familiar figures step into the bar, each with grim expressions on their faces as a third, shorter one is revealed when they reach the rest of us at the table. —Or well, more like the two tables we pushed together (not the least bit quiet either, might I add. Thanks Chanyeol).

"Kyungsoo?" I inquire, eyes widening at the bouquet of yellow roses, pink Peruvian lilies, purple irises, and red gladiolus flowers. Taking the small bottle of cheerwine he also hands me with a small gasp.

"Hey," He smiles a little, softly patting my hand resting on the back of my chair. "Didn't want to come empty-handed."

“Thank you,” I beam, setting the flowers on the table before opening the bottle carefully; pouring some into a spare shot glass Chanyeol slides across the table.

"Congratulations, Doll." Jongin mumbles, hands stuffed deep inside the pockets of his black slacks. Keeping a fair distance between us.

The smile I send his way is an apologetic one; especially with the pair of eyes watching us like a hawk. "Thanks, bro," I mutter as he walks on to take a seat; that sinking feeling once again filling my chest.

"Hey," An unmistakable voice whispers in my ear.

I turn a bit towards Baekhyun, smiling politely despite the chaste kiss he presses to my forehead. "Hi."

He pulls out the chair next to me while I pretend to focus on the conversation Chanyeol, Jongin, and Sehun are having across the table about the boring subject of weight lifting. Trying hard not to think about how adorable he looks with a black blazer, white dress shirt, and that matching bow-tie around his neck. Gorgeous silver hair styled in a subtle—yet just as knee-weakening—comma hairstyle.

"How have you been?" Baekhyun softly murmurs, his voice nearly drowned out by everything around us.

"I can bench press more than the both of you combined!"

"Shut up, Yeol."

"I've been okay," Smiling lightly, I turn back to my neglected drink to avoid his eye; idly wiping away condensation from the side of the cold glass. My attention instantly snatched away by a familiar hand gently taking mine away from the object.

"Can we talk after this?" His voice is barely above a hush, only loud enough for me to hear. The gleam of sincerity in his tired eyes has my heart aching and soaring at the same time.

I take a swig of my drink, simply nodding despite the burn, "Sure."

He watches me for a moment, seeming to be looking for something beyond my nonchalant expression; probably trying to see past the walls I've put up. A small sigh falls from his lips, the warm pillows shortly pressing a soft kiss to the back of my hand, "Okay."

He doesn't let go of my hand, choosing to tangle our fingers together before setting them on his thigh. The warmth on my cheeks is not coming from the gentle strokes of his thumb on my skin or the sweet tingle that kiss left in its wake. Nope. Not at all.

Gradually, the conversation at the table switches to more lighthearted topics. Everyone pitching in with little tidbits of their daily lives as if sensing the tension between the quietest men among us. Even Kyungsoo goes into detail about the newest dish added to the menu of his restaurant.

Baekhyun's shoulder looks comfier by the second with every sip of cherry soda and bold vodka I take. A particularly hilarious story of Chanyeol's sends me reeling; hiding my face in his gorgeous neck. His little shiver when my lips accidentally brush over his warm skin doesn't go unnoticed by me.

Baekhyun meets my gaze, his brown eyes darker than they were before as his tongue glides over his bottom lip; pink lips curling up into a knowing little smirk at my unwavering stare.

"Hey, guys!" A light voice chimes, a soothing timbre that sails above the bar chatter like an unsuspecting breeze; breaking us out of our little bubble.

Just about everyone at the table turns to the newcomer with wide eyes. Sehun and I share the same confused look before I slightly twist around in my chair to see.

"Yixing?" Baekhyun's eyes are wide, brows soon furrowing at the three unexpected people approaching our table. A tall man with kind eyes and raven hair is accompanied by an equally stunning woman, her black hair falling to her mid-waist. Minseok gets up to make room for the all-too-familiar brunet striding in front with a satisfied smirk on his face. "Sora? Dae? I didn’t know you all were coming…"

"Hi, Baekhyunnie," Sora damn near purrs, red-painted fingertips brushing his shoulder as she walks by with Yixing by her side. The oblivious man envied while I blink slowly, eyes narrowed closely on her smug form; recognition taking longer than I'd like to set in. It's the secretary Baekhyun supposedly fired. But wait… Weren't there two of them?...

"It's about time everyone meets your girlfriend, Baek." Jongdae drawls, smiling innocently enough while taking his seat. Gleefully twinkling eyes glancing over at Jenny when she smacks his arm, giving him a warning glare.

A few more drinks in and everyone seems to relax; easy going inhibitions and loosened mouths. Now we've moved on to telling old college stories. Minseok is currently recalling a time a classmate had mistaken him for being her star quarterback boyfriend.

"He acted as if he'd beat him to a pulp not knowing that Minseok is actually made of steel." Yixing grins lopsidedly in humor, head tilted to inspect the contents swirling within his glass.

"I challenged him to arm wrestling once." Chanyeol reminisces with a shiver, taking a gulp of his second refill. "Never again."

"Bro, this man could toss you over his shoulder and run a mile, I swear." Jongin's tone has a hint of a whine to it, elbows holding his weight upon the table directly across from Baek. Kyungsoo is quick to slide their glasses out the way of his clumsy hand gestures.

"Sure," Sehun mutters, half-lidded eyes rolling in exaggeration.

"I know from experience..." Jongin grumbles, a hilariously offended look on his face.

I laugh quietly, catching Minseok's eye. "Easy as pie," He smirks behind the rim of his glass, lifting it in a playful cheer and winking mischievously.

"Easy for you to say," Chanyeol full-on complains, the large distance kept between him and Sora causes his arm to constantly bump into Sehun. "Remember that time you slipped off the pier? I almost broke my back tryna pull you back up!"

I laugh harder, having to cling onto Baekhyun's arm before I fall out of my chair, a burning stare makes my eyes drift over to Jongdae.

The table seems to settle down, everyone looking at the narrowed eyed man as well.

"Hey Jongdae, you good man?" Minseok jokes, tentatively nudging his side.

The brunet comes out of his trance, throwing his head back in that rambunctious laughter that never leads to anything good. "Oh yeah." He grins, words noticeably slurred. "Please forgive me, I was just struck by deja vu." His eyes drag over to Baekhyun, curled lip smile widening in glee. "Isn't this scenario familiar to you Baek?" His voice dips in emphasis on the word ‘familiar’ as if it's a hint to an inside joke. "Very very familiar."

"O-kay," Jenny steps in hurriedly as I feel Baekhyun stiffen; she reaches for the shot glass clutched in Jongdae's palms. "I think you’d had enough-"

"How is she, by the way?" He brushes her off, sending the glass falling over onto the table; contents spilled while Minseok is quick to catch it before it hits the floor. "Have you heard from her lately? I mean, she sure is pretty active in our old group chat-"

Chanyeol and Jongin stand up, assisting her in hoisting him up before escorting a blabbering Jongdae outside; the brunet practically a dead-weight. Apologizes are directed to everyone they accidentally bump into along the way; Kyungsoo shortly following behind to help. The worried yet knowing look they all share while stepping out the door is imprinted on my mind. Along with the fact both my potential rides are gone unless I plan to catch a cab with Sehun...

"Want me to drive you home?" Baekhyun murmurs quietly after a while, soft lips caressing the shell of my ear.

I try my best not to shiver, turning to him with what I hope is my best pleading eyed expression. An incoming headache and the desire to sleep it off overpowering all other thoughts as I meet his warm brown orbs, "Please?"

Based on the way his eyes soften even more, I think it worked. "Come on." He offers his hand, smiling a little when I stumble trying to get off of my high chair.

A gust of wind blows just as we step out into the busy street. Baekhyun wordlessly places his blazer on my shoulders. A small smile curls my lips at the gesture; widening further when his warm hand searches for mine, tucking our joined hands into his pocket. His secure hold makes my heart race while we walk to his car parked at a meter on the other side of the road.

"Thank you," I mumble as he opens the passenger door, hiding my heated cheeks in the fabric of his blazer. Heart exhilarating at the lingering scent of vanilla, laundry detergent, and him. I take my phone off of airplane mode once settled in the comfortable leather seat.

Just as we pull off the curb, a loud ding! disrupts the quiet atmosphere. I pull my phone from my hoodie pocket, eyes widening at the messages that come streaming in.

"What is it?" Baekhyun asks curiously with a brief glance, noting the look on my face.

"It's...mom," I mumble, blinking sluggishly; squinting a little at the bright screen. "She's asking when I plan to visit."

"Ahh..." He hums, fingers tapping on the steering wheel. We fall quiet once again, nothing heard except the late-night traffic, low radio volume, and my nails tapping away on my phone screen.

"I wouldn't mind meeting your mom," He mumbles after awhile.

My head snaps over to him at that, neck painfully cracking from the sharp movement. "What?"

"I wouldn't mind meeting your mom." He looks over at me at a red light. "What?" His tone is softer, uncertainty filling his eyes. "Do you not want me to-"

"No!" I interject a bit too hurriedly, backtracking at the doubtful expression playing on his handsome features. "I mean, it's not that. I just…"

He tilts his head, slivers locks of hair concealing the emotion in his brown orbs, "Just?"

"I never brought a guy home," I grumble, shifting my eyes to the view of city lights from the passenger window.

"I'd be the first?" His voice is that soft hush again, tip-toeing around questions as if I will snap at him at any moment.

"Not if you keep being an insufferable peacock," I cross my arms, sinking further down into the comfy leather seat as his wide brown eyes flick over to me.

"...I deserve that," He mumbles, lips poked out in the tiniest pout.

Taking a long look at his sulking side profile, I sigh at his slumped shoulders and the now “scolded” child-like expression on his face; turning more towards him. "Can we talk now?” Catching his eye, I elaborate. "Like really talk? This habit of going days without talking to each other cannot continue if we are going to be together, Baekhyun."

I swear I heard him utter a disgruntled, “why not?” under his breath, his grip tightening on the steering wheel.

"We are both adults here, Baek." Tucking my buzzing phone back into my pocket, I gently place my hand on his free one, interlocking our fingers. "We have to talk, listen, and compromise if we want to be healthy and not end up hating each other." Feeling him tense up, I rub my thumb over his knuckles, adding softly, "I really want us to work, but we can't keep going on this way…" I swallow hard, trying to work around the lump in my throat and tightness building up in my chest; directing my blurry eyes down to my hands. "It hurts, Baekhyun."

The car jerks violently just as I finish my sentence. I brace myself against the seat, meeting his brooding eyes with my confused ones. He's cupping my face to pull me into a deep kiss before I can say anything. The way his soft pillows slowly dance with mine causes my heart rate to escalate. Beating so loud I fear he'd hear it or feel it through his warm palms.

I pull away after a while; searching his brown orbs for answers as he caresses my cheek, leaning forward to press a kiss to my nose that leaves my feelings in an even bigger disarray.

"We will." His tone is gentle, yet firm, eyes never straying away from my own. "We will talk, just…" He falters, gaze shifting off to the side, blinking away a foreign look too soon for me to identify it before focusing his tired orbs back onto me. "Trust me, okay?"

Finding determination and a plea within those puppy eyes, I nod, keeping a resigned sigh to myself while placing my hand over his own on my cheek.

"Okay…" He seems to relax, lips brushing over mine before he moves to sit properly in the driver’s seat; starting the car back up. The journey to the dorms is spent in comfortable silence. Fingers intertwined and wild hearts in sync.

•⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •⇔♦ •

#bbh-net #Baekhyun smut #Baekhyun fluff #Baekhyun angst #Baekhyun romance #Six Phases

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