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ikeukiss · 9 months ago

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BUT DADDY I LOVE HIM | 심재윤

⟢ PAIRING: sim (jake) jaeyun x fem!reader ⟢ WORD COUNT: 10.2K ⟢ GENRE: fluff, angst, smut ⟢ TAGS: badboy!au, innocent!reader, opposites attract, sexual tension, corruption kink, dirty talk, fingering, oral (m + f receiving), 69, pet names (baby, angel, etc.), face sitting, protected sex. ⟢ SYNOPSIS: Just because there's a new and seemingly bad influence in your small town, it doesn't mean you have to fall privy to his charms, no matter how beautiful he is. But when he takes notice of you, none of the gossiping wine moms can stop him from getting what he wants. ➸ shoutout to @kwanisms and @mini-mews for helping this fic come to fruition, ily guys sm and this is genuinely one of my favorite pieces ive ever written aaa.

“Have you heard about the new family who moved into town? The son is a real piece of work!”

“He’s twenty-one but acts like he’s still sixteen on that damn motorcycle. No class or consideration whatsoever!”

“Maybe they’ll keep him in check if they decide to come to church this weekend. You know Reverend Park has no time for miscreants and delinquents.”

The familiar crowd on your mother’s front porch greets you as you’re attempting to exit the house. They cool themselves off with their makeshift fans and drink your mother’s homemade lemonade in the Saturday sun, continuing to harp on the locals in town that they’ve known for years.

Somewhere in their conversation, they drifted to the topic of the new family that moved in across the street. Three days was all it took for them to begin spouting their judgemental observations, every act from the new middle-aged couple and their son fodder for their discussion.

You smile politely with every fiber of your being, despite your instincts to snap at them and be on your merry way. If only they knew how ironic they are, pointing fingers at others from their high horses when the town kept enough space for their dirty little secrets. “Nice to see you this morning, ladies.”

They say your name with grace, their tones all air with little substance. “On your way to bible study?” Mrs. Choi asks, gazing at you from the rim of her glass.

You shake your head. “Just tutoring.”

“With the Nishimura boy? What a sweet kid.” When Riki’s name leaves Mrs. Lee’s lips, all the women hum in agreement. “Such a bright future ahead of him.”

“Of course, as long as he passes English,” you joke. The women’s faces don’t change, not taking your teasing with an ounce of anything but seriousness. The bags under their eyes, lipstick smudged in the tiny corners of their teeth, and piercing attitudes begin to damper your excitement for the day. You bid them goodbye quickly with another smile, walking down the stairs and onto the path down the street.

As you turn down the sidewalk, still hearing the resounding chatter from the women, your thoughts run wild. Is this what life would be like when you were older, doing nothing but kicking your feet up on a neighbor’s porch with only other people’s business to fill your time? Spending endless days and nights at church, listening to the same sermons leave Reverend Park’s lips until you become as overly critical as they all are?

The screech of tires halts your thoughts in their place. “Watch it!” A young man’s voice pierces the morning air, making you step back even further. You hadn’t realized how far you had walked into the road until you were back on the safety of the sidewalk. You trip on a crack between the two slabs of concrete, falling backwards and meeting the ground hard.

“Shit, are you okay?” He takes his helmet off, immediately hooking it to his handlebars to check on you.

Sim Jaeyun.

You had not met him formally until this moment, but the motorcycle and undeniable looks gave away his status as your new neighbor. Your parents had decided to let the new family settle in before trying to visit and introduce themselves. If they could see you now, your maxi skirt hitched up to your knees and the boy barely a foot away from you, they would have had a field day.

Sure, you both are of age. Butlike Mrs. Choi, Mrs. Lee, and other local townsfolk always do, people will talk about such a compromising position if you aren’t careful.

All those thoughts fade away though when Jake kneels beside you, his face flooded with concern. His eyes linger on the broken skin on your legs and then across your flushed face. “Does it hurt?”

You shake your head. “It’s barely a scratch. Sorry I almost ran into you.”

“More like almost ran into my bike.” He laughs, his expression one of relief as well as humor. “I’m just glad you’re in one piece.”

“Thank the lord.” You brush your hands on your skirt and begin to stand up, but Jake grabs you by the hand to help, taking all your weight with him.

“Thank you,” you say, brushing the free hair from your braid out of your face.

“You’re welcome.” He unclips his helmet from the bar and gestures back to his bike. “I can drive you to wherever you’re going if you want. I don’t have a second helmet, but–”

You can’t help the laugh that escapes your lips, the thought of riding on the back of a motorcycle too ridiculous to envision given your status as the deacon’s daughter. What would people say?

Jake just furrows his brows, his lips turning up at the corners. “Is my offer that funny?”

“No,” you say, “I would love to, it’s just–”

“Sim Jaeyun!” The shrill sound of Mrs. Choi’s voice makes you take another step away from Jake, unaware you were as close as you were to him. His presence seems to be magnetic, just like his smile. “Stay away from her or so help me God!”

Jake turns to the old woman down the road and nods his head, trying to be respectful but clearly irritated from her meddling. “Yes ma’am,” he yells, stepping back and getting closer to his bike.

“Maybe another time,” Jake says, “when you’re not flocked by the whining wine moms.”

You laugh and nod. “Maybe.”

Jake rides away on his bike, the wispy ends of his hair your last picture of him before he makes a sharp turn at the end of your street.

“Why do I need to learn this?” Riki groans, laying his head flat against his desk. The church bells ring as he knocks his head in the same rhythm against the polished wood.

“Because you need to be able to interpret text if you want to go off to college, Nishi. Otherwise you’ll be illiterate and an embarrassment to the entire town!” You put on your best harping, disapproving voice. It makes Riki laugh as he lifts his head. You’re glad at least the younger kids appreciate your sense of humor, unlike the older brood flooding your hometown.

“Alright, fine.” He opens his copy of Heart of Darkness, beginning to read the page in front of him. “I avoided a vast artificial hole somebody had been digging on the slope…”

A knock on the classroom door makes you and Riki turn. Yeri opens it with a shy grin, saying your name with the same nature. “Someone’s here to see you!”

“Who?”

“Some cute guy on a motorcycle? But don’t tell Jungwon I said that!” She runs back out the door and leaves you puzzled. Surely it’s not Jake. You just met him; he wouldn’t make the effort to try and follow you to your tutoring session, especially at the church of all places.

You head to the window to see Jake sitting against his bike, looking around at his surroundings. He’s wearing the same leather jacket and gray jeans, his white shirt marked with several spots of sweat. Riki comes up behind you, making a sound of acknowledgement. “Oh, that’s Jake!”

“Jake?” You look closer. “I thought his name was Jaeyun.”

“Yeah, but I call him Jake.” He laughs. “He’s my cousin.”

You nod your head, taking in his words. Jake’s sudden move made a lot more sense, seeing as Riki’s mother was getting sicker every day. She must have needed some help from her family to not only manage her household, but make sure Riki stayed on track.

“He probably wants to see you. Yeri must’ve gotten it all mixed up.”

Riki grabs his phone, scrolling through texts with his thumb. “Actually, he did mention almost running over a cute girl on his way to work.” The young boy smirks. “I’m gonna assume that’s you?”

You blush, the flush on your cheeks making you feel hot. “Whatever. He’s probably just picking you up!”

“I brought my own bicycle, dude. And as cool as Jake is, his driving makes me nauseous.” Riki begins packing up his belongings on the desk as you wonder what Jake would want to say that hadn’t already been said earlier. Surely he had no interest in talking to you beyond another apology for almost killing you earlier, not that you would have noticed.

As your thoughts continue on, you barely hear Riki’s parting words. “Have fun making out with my cousin!”

You venture outside and are greeted to Jake’s soft smile as he looks you over. “Didn’t expect you to be teaching my cousin how to read.”

You laugh. “When would that have come up? Before or after I fell face-first on the sidewalk?”

“Technically, you fell on your ass.” He looks over the cuts on your leg again. “Still doesn’t hurt?”

“Barely remember it.”

“Damn. Didn’t realize I was so forgettable,” he teases. You shuck your backpack over your shoulder, pretending his joke didn’t land. But you can’t help how your mouth curves into a grin. “Wanna take me up on that ride now? I don’t see any wine moms in sight.”

Being clear headed and not in the midst of a compromising position, you take a better look at Jake. He may look rugged from the neck down, muscles standing out through his jacket, but his face is incredibly youthful and vulnerable without a touch of hardness. Maybe the wine moms had gotten it wrong; maybe Jake’s actually a stand-up guy bundled up in a lot of leather.

Before you can answer, your father seems to appear from thin air. He wraps his arm around your shoulder. “Mr. Sim, pleasure to meet you officially.”

Your father holds out his hand for Jake, and Jake takes it with a steadfast grip. “Nice to meet you too sir. My mother was telling me how much you’ve been helping my aunt since she can’t attend services anymore.”

“Akemi is a pillar of our church. It’s only right to take care of one of our own as the deacon.” Your father squeezes you tighter to his side. “Glad to see you and my daughter have met. I hope she’s made a good impression upon you.”

“Yes sir. Very much so.” He smiles in your direction. The dimple in his cheek makes your heart flutter in your chest, the butterflies undeniable.

“Well, please tell your parents to come to ours soon for dinner. It would be a pleasure.” Your father begins the quick walk to his car, the silent request for you to follow him clear in his stern posture. You give Jake an apologetic smile before you leave, hoping your eyes hold the promise of taking him up on that ride someday.

When you’re both out of earshot and in the confines of your father’s car, he turns to you with a frown. “Do not get yourself involved with that boy. He doesn’t strike me as very forthcoming.”

You stutter out an excuse. Surely the first day of knowing Jake wouldn’t be the last. “F-Father–”

“Listen to me, sweetie. I know what I’m talking about.” He starts the car and begins the drive home, tightening his fists on the steering wheel. “I mean it. Do not see that boy again.”

The next morning, you’re sitting in one of the front pews with your mother, Yeri, and her mother. You see your fellow townsfolk in attendance in the other pews, Jungwon being one of them, Yeri’s longtime boyfriend. Mrs. Choi and Mrs. Lee look like they are partially focused on the attendees, but also on their own gossip.

All of you are dressed in your best outfits, your hair wrapped in a bun to maintain the peak of modesty. It doesn’t seem particularly realistic for a higher power to be judging you for your hairdo, but you gave in to your mother’s ridiculous requests as always. “We are important people in this community, darling,” your mother said as she stuck the umpteenth bobby pin in your hair. “If they can’t trust us, who can they trust?”

Riki sits behind you, his pew empty save for him. When you offer the empty spot next to you before the procession starts, he shakes his head. “Jake and his folks will be here any second.”

Your gut tightens, the words of your father playing over in your head. You know you have to heed his orders at all times, but the excitement you feel at the prospect of seeing Jake is unavoidable.

A minute before your childhood friend Heeseung sits at the piano to play the beginning of How Great Is Our God, Jake and his family walk inside. Jake’s impeccably dressed, clad in a red dress-shirt and suit pants. His sleeves are rolled up to his elbows, revealing a handful of tattoos you didn’t notice the day prior. He has his mother’s arm in one hand and a bible in the other, looking completely out of place but incredibly mesmerizing.

He winks at you when he sits down, making you turn your head back to your friend at the piano. You follow in your mother’s and Yeri’s lead, singing alongside them and forgetting the new buzz in your veins. You can feel his eyes on you throughout the songs and sermons, and you should say that you don’t enjoy it, but you don't kid yourself. His attention makes your body tingle in all the right and wrong ways.

You excuse yourself in the intermission, walking outside until you’re a good ten paces away from the church. You take several pins out of your hair, grunting. The incessant tools had been scratching your scalp uncomfortably for the past three hours, and it feels like freedom taking them out one at a time.

It isn’t that you don’t believe in a higher power or the teachings your father and Reverend Park have supplied you with your entire life. The town is just too suffocating on days like these, setting you up to feel like you aren’t good enough no matter how hard you try every day to perfect yourself.

The fashion show of your humble, presentable outfit, the whispered chatter from your community, the watchful eyes of holy men. They all make your skin crawl, that itch only intensifying with every day that passes. How could you stay in such a small room for years and feel misunderstood by everyone?

Jake saunters up to you, making you gasp in surprise. “Jesus Christ!”

He smirks, hands stuffed in his pockets. “I thought you weren’t supposed to say his name in vain.”

You shrug, smiling in relief to find it’s just him and nobody else. No-one to meddle, judge, or question your absence. “I’ll just say a few words of penance. I’m sure he’ll forgive me.”

“I knew there was a reason I liked you.” Jake chuckles and steps closer to you, his eyes lingering on your dress. It’s incredibly modest, the only skin showing high above your cleavage. but the look in his eyes still makes your nerves tremble.

You wonder what thoughts are swimming in his head and if a majority of them are impure. Would it be so wrong to confess that you feel the same? That whatever he’s imagining mirrors your own fantasies ten times over?

“The updo doesn’t suit you,” he says finally.

You giggle and cross your arms. “It doesn’t, huh?”

He steps closer, so close you can feel his breath on your skin. It lingers across your neck and shoulder blades. You shudder, hoping he doesn’t notice how his presence affects you. He reaches behind you and takes hold of the hair tie keeping your bun together. He expertly undoes it, your hair falling in waves around your shoulders.

Before he walks away, the church bells signaling the recommencement of the procession, he whispers in your ear, “Much more breathtaking with your hair down, angel.”

The next time you see Jake, he’s across from you at your family’s dinner table, all laughs with Jungwon and Yeri as your father passes out the rest of the side dishes. Riki is also there, discussing his mother’s treatment with your mother and Jake’s parents.

You can’t help the way your eyes attach to Jake across from you. It’s almost a form of punishment that you were made to sit in such close proximity, the weight of his stare on you swallowing you whole.

The feeling of his hand in your hair, his mouth against your ear–it was all so incredibly inappropriate. You shouldn’t have thought about that day last week with such excruciating frequency, but you did. You thought about it when you heard the wine moms whispering about Jake on your porch, when Yeri and Jungwon talked about him as you studied, and when you were alone at night.

In your dreams, it was even more painful. In a perfect world, he would take his hand from your hair and keep it on your neck, holding you close. He would move his lips from the shell of your ear to the side of your neck, kissing and tasting what skin was available to him in that moment to make you come undone.

Yes, sitting across from him is torment. But the alternative is worse, not seeing him at all and having to conjure images of him alone in the quiet of your bedroom.

“Deacon, sir,” Jungwon pipes up from his spot next to Jake, addressing your father directly. “I was going to study with Jaeyun and Yeri at my house if you wouldn’t mind your daughter tagging along.”

The muscle in your father’s jaw clenches. He’s clearly unhappy with one of the attendees being Jake, but he hides it behind a smile. “It’s up to her. What do you think, sweetie?”

On one hand, you should absolutely say no. Jake may take you into a random spot of Jungwon’s house and make any resolve you still have disappear with the flick of his wrist. Even in the company of your friends, you know no place is safe when he’s around and close to you. And were you willing to crumble so easily?

At the same time, the distance is eating away at you. You can’t take another charged glance in your direction, words unspoken but begging to be released. If you have to catch his bedroom eyes on your body one more time, you may just snap in front of everyone, and care little when you do.

“Sure. I’d love to, Wonie,” you say with a grin. “Nishi, you want to come too?”

Riki shakes his head, enjoying the fruitcake your mom set out. “I’ll stay. Someone has to help clean up.” Jake’s mom squeezes one of his cheeks. Riki’s face suddenly turns pink from his aunt’s affection, making everyone laugh.

On your way out the door, your father catches you by the arm. He whispers, “No later than midnight. Understood?”

On the cusp of 10 PM, you want to protest that time with your friends is already so limited, but you obey with a nod and walk out the door.

When you get in the backseat of Jungwon’s car, Jake too comfortable beside you, you feel your body flicker to life. “So,” you say, “your house then, Won?”

Yeri and Jungwon laugh, a conspiratory look in both of their eyes. “We’re just gonna make a quick stop first.”

Kiss ‘Em Creek was the unofficial name of the lake that ran through your town, a spot for teenagers to spend a few hours alone with their friends or partners. It wasn’t scientifically-correct, but it stuck nonetheless, many of the locals taking advantage of the not-so-secret hideaway. What went on there you only heard about through Yeri and the wine moms’ conversations, their voices littered with disappointment and condemnation.

Jungwon parks his car and turns his eyes to meet yours in the rearview mirror, that scheming smile still playing on his lips. “Ready to take a dip?”

Your eyes widen. You shake your head at a rapid pace, making your friends and Jake chuckle. “No way,” you say.

“C’mon babe, live a little!” Yeri winks and exits the car, Jungwon hot on her heels. The two of them begin to strip to their underwear, eager to jump in the water together. Jungwon picks her up in a bridal carry, Yeri laughing the entire way as he takes the first step into the awaiting lake.

As the two lovebirds continue heading towards the water, you and Jake sit in comfortable silence, your heartbeat slowly rising at the prospect of being alone in the car together. No distractions, no disappointed parents, no judgemental hags. Just the two of you under a cloud of stars and beautiful moonlight.

“I didn’t know if you would come tonight,” Jake says, filling the silence with a quiet chuckle. “Thought you were avoiding me at all costs, like I’m some kind of plague.”

“No!” You turn in your seat to face him. His expression is teasing but holds undercurrents of disappointment, clearly confused where your feelings lie. And he has every right to feel that way. One minute you’re wishing he would pull you closer, and the next you feel it’s better he keeps his distance. “I just don’t know what your intentions are.”

His eyes darken and his lips curve into a beautiful but intimidating smile. “Is it not obvious?”

You squeeze your thighs together, a wave of heat spreading through your bones. “Maybe I just want you to say it out loud.”

He scoots closer to you, his chest a heartbeat away from yours. “Well, to start,” he says, “I would really like to kiss you.”

You smile. A breathless laugh leaves your lips, eager to know what it would feel like to touch his mouth to yours. “I’d like that too.”

Jake runs a hand through your hair and rests it on your cheek. His touch is as fragile as the tension between you. “Then what are you so afraid of?”

You shut your eyes, trying to come up with the right words and falling short. “It’s just everyone–”

“Fuck everyone else.” He forces you to look into his eyes, the words leaving his mouth being some of the truest ones you’ve ever heard in your life. “You’re not a bad person or a sinner for wanting what you want.”

“I know that.”

“You may know it but you don’t believe it.” Jake’s lips ghost over yours, his breath tickling your cheeks. “Stop thinking about what everyone else thinks of you. Think of yourself for once.”

Maybe Jake’s right. All of your choices in life have been dictated by what your parents, friends, and total strangers have felt. If you listened to your own heart, you would have left all of them in the dust by now, chasing what you really wanted far away from this place.

At the same time, you’re glad to be in this car with Jake. He’s so close to you, telling you to take the leap and choose yourself for the first time in a long time.

When you press your lips to his, the feeling of his mouth on yours soft and tentative, you know you can’t wake up tomorrow the same person. This choice will ripple into all the choices you make from this moment on, but you don’t seem to care.

All that matters is his mouth, taking more control and setting a fire deep in your belly. He presses his tongue to the juncture of your lips, diving inside without protest.

You moan into his mouth, feeling one hand firmly pressed on your neck as the other runs down your shirt to squeeze at your breast through your clothes.

“Fuck, tell me to stop,” Jake says with a heady whisper, still kneading your breast with his palm. “Tell me to stop if you don’t want this.”

You shake your head, moving closer to him to the point you’re halfway on his lap, legs intertwined with his. “So help me God, don’t stop now.”

He snickers, pecking your lips again. “You said his name in vain again.”

You roll your eyes as he chuckles into your neck. “That wasn’t the first thing on my mind.” You move your lips to his cheek. “Or the second.” They trail down to his neck, taking your fantasies and etching them into his skin. “Or third.”

“Fuck,” Jake curses, holding you tight against him. “You’re too good at this.”

You smirk. “Contrary to popular belief, you’re not the first person I’ve ever kissed.”

He laughs, the rumble of it vibrating against your mouth. “I don’t care as long as you keep kissing me.”

“Wasn’t planning on stopping.” By the time you reattach your mouth to his, you’re straddling his lap. His hands are nestled on the small of your back, wanting to inch down further but unsure where or what your boundaries are.

You take the initiative, suddenly bold, and put both of his palms on your backside. “If you wanted to touch my ass, you could’ve just said so.”

Jake licks his lips, his accent coming out in a husky whisper. “I want to touch you in a lot of places. Your ass just happens to be easily accessible right now.”

“Oh really?” You giggle. “Care to enlighten me?”

Jake sharply switches positions, your back against the expanse of the backseat as he towers over you. He rubs his hands across the outside of your thighs, eager but patient. “Gladly.”

He kisses your neck, suckling and licking with perfect pressure, making you whimper. “Jaeyun,” you say out loud, his name coming out like a question more than a statement.

“Use your words, angel. Tell me what you want.” His eyes pass over your face, your kissable lips and lust-blown irises. You’re too entrenched in him now to walk away from this car the same girl, and you wouldn’t want it any other way.

It may end badly, crash and burn completely like everyone expects it to, but that’s the last thing you care about right now.

“I want you to touch me.” You take one of his hands on your thighs and place it over your underwear, its center damp.

“Jesus,” he says in wonder, rubbing his fingers against the cotton.

“You just said–oh,” you stop short when you feel Jake’s fingers against your clit. The sensation makes you buck your hips up into him, him discovering the bundle of nerves without trying hard. He’s clearly happy at the wetness he finds. He rubs your folds in the same fashion, biting down on his bottom lip hard.

“You feel so good already. So perfect,” he whispers, taking hold of your lips again with his own while he swirls his fingers in and around your essence. He switches between teasing your clit and rubbing along your pussy, his movements lewd yet graceful. Only when he puts a finger inside of you do you gasp and look at him directly, your eyes clearly giving away your fear.

“What’s wrong, angel? Did I do something?” Concern floods his face, but he doesn’t take his hand away.

“I’ve never gone this far,” you confess, looking to your side to hide your embarrassment.

“Hey, look at me.” He turns your head to face him again, fingers laying under your chin softly. “We can stop now if you want. I don’t want you to feel pressured into doing anything you don’t want to do.”

His response makes your heart clench. Most guys, you’d imagine, would be pissed off or pleading with you to continue on, to do what they wanted and enjoy the moment. That was how Jongseong was, pouting the entire time after you told him to pump the brakes on your makeout sessions.

Somehow, with Jake, it feels right to continue. You suddenly have no anxiety clouding your thoughts or expectations weighing on your heart. You kiss his lips tenderly and shake your head. “No, I want this. I want you.”

A cheshire-cat grin spreads across his face before he goes in for another kiss. He runs his tongue along the inside of your mouth as his finger slides across your folds once again. He plunges it deep inside of your heat, your body adjusting to the new sensation with surprising ease.

You thrash lightly underneath him, matching the tempo of his finger with abandon. He slips another digit in, groaning at the feeling of your soft, gummy walls becoming accustomed to him. “You’re taking my fingers so well, angel. ‘S fucking incredible.”

You gasp and feel the fire from earlier heightening in intensity, spreading from your belly into the other seams of your body. It makes your toes curl and your hand press against one of the doors of Jungwon’s car, needing something to clutch onto while feeling yourself losing what’s left of your control.

“Jaeyun, I think I–”

“I know baby,” he says, pressing his lips to your forehead. “You’re going to feel so good in a second, I promise. Don’t be afraid.”

His thumb makes contact with your neglected clit, rubbing in rapid motions as he pumps his fingers faster in and out of you. You suddenly become overloaded with pleasure; its immensity is something you’ve never felt before. You feel it coat the back of your mouth and take what’s left of your rational senses, your body moving on its own accord as you ride out what’s remaining of your orgasm.

You blush furiously when you come back down to earth, giggling like a schoolgirl as Jake kisses your sweat-drenched cheek. “That was…amazing.”

Jake chuckles, a smirk painting his features. “You’re amazing.”

You tuck your face in your hands, embarrassed but still enraptured by what you just experienced. He pulls one hand away, taking it in his own, his expression suddenly shy. “So, I guess this is the part where I ask you on a proper date.”

You laugh and sit up, placing your panties back around your hips and adjusting your skirt. “I would hope so!”

Jungwon and Yeri choose that moment to run back into the car, their hair drenched but their bodies properly dressed once again. Jungwoon looks at the two of you in the backseat and grimaces. “Not in my car, man!”

Despite the warnings from your parents and the wine moms, you and Jake had become inseparable within a month’s time. It took many late-night impromptu meetings and secret rendezvous to keep your relationship private, but you had succeeded thus far. And it only made the moments you both shared that much more special.

Riki had kept your secret, keeping his eyes out for any prying townsfolk and covering for his cousin and you if need be. Yeri and Jungwon also cheered you on from the shadows, hoping one day you could be public like they were without criticism.

Sitting in the field near the lake, a picnic blanket set across the grass, you have your head in Jake’s lap while he absentmindedly turns strands of your hair into miniature braids. It’s a beautiful Wednesday afternoon, the two of you occupying the resounding forest with no outside influences.

“Have I told you lately how beautiful your hair is?” Jake asks, kissing your forehead before he takes another batch of strands in his hand. If he has to pick one of your best attributes, in his words, he’d say it was a tie between your lips and your hair, the two of them constantly making his heart race. You called him a liar, but as time revealed, he was nothing but honest with you every day, and not just about what turns him on.

Over time, you discovered his fears, his ticks, his aspirations past the small town you both found yourselves in. You admire his vulnerability, how open he is when sharing the thoughts that occupy his mind.

“At least three times already,” you tease, running your hand across his leg.

“It’s not bad to hear it a fourth time, right?” He plants another kiss to the crown of your head. He drops the braid he’s just made across your face, making you laugh.

“I’d rather hear how work went today,” you say, getting up to press your back to his chest, snuggling into him.

He shrugs, wrapping his arms around you tighter. “Not much to talk about. Working with roofs all day isn’t exactly exciting, angel.”

You know Jake doesn’t want to work at his dad’s construction company for the rest of his life. However, it provides stability, and that matters a lot to him. He knows what it did to his aunt when Riki’s father walked out early on in his cousin’s life, and he wouldn’t wish that lack of support on anyone.

“At least you’re not running a tutoring center and a daycare in the same church,” you joke, your tone anything but humorous. The brood you dealt with every day was completely unlike Riki. They were kids that were carbon copies of their parents, children that would one day become exactly like their absentminded fathers and speculatory mothers. It put a taste in your mouth you couldn’t stomach.

You fall into steady silence, the uptick in both of your nerves ebbing away the longer you hold each other. Sure, Jake hates roofing as much as you hate disciplining whining toddlers and helping apathetic tweens with mathematics, but it doesn’t matter at this moment.

All that does is each other, enjoying the midweek sunset and the sounds of the birds flying overhead.

“What would you do if you were somewhere else?” Jake asks into the crook of your neck.

You grin, imagining a world of possibilities. The question never came up before, not from him or anyone else. It opens up a plethora of choices in your mind, but you narrow them down quickly, knowing what your heart truly desires.

“I’d like to teach,” you answer. “Really teach, maybe at a university. Something like poetry.” You turn to look at him, a newfound fire in your eyes. “Yeah.”

Jake smiles back at you, moving stray strands of hair from your shoulder to rest his head there. “I think you’d be great at that.”

“What would you do?”

Jake ponders the question, going over it in the same way you were moments before. You see realization wash over his features, and it makes you smile. “I think I’d write. Not literature or anything, but songs maybe? Teach music in the meantime. Still have to make money somehow, y’know.”

You giggle and push him down on the picnic blanket, running your fingers through his hair. “Sounds like a plan.”

He nods, sharing your happiness. “Maybe a kid and a dog can fit somewhere in that plan.”

Chuckling, you raise one eyebrow. “As long as I’m not having a baby out of wedlock, that sounds perfect to me.”

He turns you both over, covering your body with his and kissing you intensely. The passion runs from his body to yours, your heartbeats matching in their strong beats against your chests. “Perfect,” he whispers, his lips meeting yours once again.

It may be too soon to call it love, but you know you’re tiptoeing that line, and you wouldn’t mind falling headfirst on the other side of it as long as Jake’s there waiting for you.

“Are you sure they don’t know I’m here?” Jake asks, hesitant to walk up the stairs to your bedroom.

“It’s fine! They’re at a seminar all weekend with Reverend Park and his son, I promise.” You kiss his lips before running up to your room. Still on the fence, you hear his tentative footsteps trudging behind you.

Another few months rolled by, and your parents had softened to the idea of Jake being around more often. He showed up with his parents to church every Sunday, even if you both snuck off to make out in the backwoods when nobody was paying attention.

He’d stick around for the deacon’s sessions with Akemi, brightening her spirits with his guitar and a couple of songs to replace the ones she missed during normal processions. It helped that she seemed to be getting better, slowly but surely, with treatment and daily prayer.

When you heard your father call Jake a “nice kid,” you knew they were turning a corner in their relationship that you wished for since the night Jake kissed you in Jungwon’s car.

Now, that doesn’t mean they would be happy with finding him in your bed on a Friday night, but you’ve broken enough rules at this point. What’s one more?

“You’re trying to get me killed,” Jake jokes as you rip his shirt from his body, discarding the article of clothing on your bedroom floor. You sit on your bed and marvel at the muscles on his chest and stomach, all of it yours to caress and kiss at any time.

“Don’t worry, babe. I’ll follow you to heaven,” you tease, pulling him closer to kiss his body. Each press of your lips to his skin makes him tremble, cursing quietly to himself at the feeling.

“With the way you’re touching me, I doubt either of us will make it there.”

You giggle and link his mouth to yours. You moan when his tongue hits the roof of your mouth.

The intentions you had for tonight definitely involved numerous bouts of kissing, but the way Jake’s making you feel will certainly end up with his face or fingers between your legs. And as good as that sounds, you don’t want him derailing you from completing your mission.

There had been so many moments of him giving you pleasure up to this point, you wondered how he had stayed so composed and content after without expecting anything in return.

So, tonight, you decided to give him a bit of satisfaction, even if you’re walking into such activities without any kind of road map. Yeri gave you a handful of tips, but doing it for real is another beast entirely.

“Jaeyun, wait,” you say, taking his face in between your hands.

He looks up at you with eager eyes, wondering why you pulled him away from your neck. “What is it?”

“I want to take care of you this time.” You say, hoping your expression gives off the confidence you’re trying to portray. “I’ve never done it before, but—“

“And you don’t have to, angel,” Jake says with a dopey, relaxed smile. What on Earth and heaven did you do to find a guy like him?

“Please,” you beg, scooting closer to the edge of the bed. “I want to try.”

Jake’s conflicting feelings are evident in his eyes. Surely any man wants his girlfriend to go down on him with the same eagerness that you're giving him right now, but he doesn’t want you to feel obligated.

In his mind, pleasure isn’t about some sort of trade-off. He makes you feel good because he wants to, not because it’s some duty he has to fulfill and expects to be paid back for later.

But, you asked so nicely and your eyes shine up at him so beautifully. He feels his resolve crumble enough to concede and do what you want.

You begin to unbutton his pants, your fingers twitching not from fear but excitement. When you pull down his jeans fully and see the outline of his bulge in his briefs, your mouth falls open slightly at the size.

Could it fit in your mouth if it was that big?

Jake chuckles and takes your hand to press to the gaping material covering him. “It won’t bite.”

You look up at him and begin to stutter, unsure how to continue once you take off his underwear. “D-Do you want me to use my hands first?”

“Whatever feels right to you, angel. I trust you.” He rubs his thumb across your cheek, and it calms all the nerves that came to the surface.

It’s in those three words that you find the courage to pull the remaining article of clothing off of him, taking in the sight of his cock in all its glory.

You gulp hard, trailing your eyes from the tip to where it adjoins to the rest of him. You’ve never seen one up close before, and you feel like you’re invading his privacy as you stare at it for another long minute. But who can blame you?

“It’s all for you, baby,” Jake whispers. “Do whatever you want.”

You feel a sharp pang of heat at the center of your thighs, his words spurring you on. You spit into your hand, as Yeri instructed, and wrap your hand firmly around Jake’s cock. With an easy but deliberate pace, you look at Jake directly to see if you’re starting off on the right foot.

And boy were you.

Jake hisses at the feeling of your hand encasing him, loving the tightness of your fingers as they continue sliding up and down his dick. He had envisioned this many times in the solitude of his bedroom, images of you and your beautiful body writhing underneath him enough to get him off. But those nights were nothing compared to this.

“Are you ready for my mouth now?” You ask timidly. Jake wants to laugh at how innocent you sound, the words coming so naturally off of your tongue.

“Yes, angel, please,” he answers, wanting to caress you by the hair and guide you down to his awaiting, leaking cock.

You move closer until you're an inch away from his tip. Flattening your tongue to take it into your mouth, you keep watching Jake’s face for the right signals.

His mouth opens, a satisfied whine leaving his lips. You feel a wave of pride at the fact he’s enjoying it so much, egging you on further.

“Your mouth feels so perfect wrapped around me,” he confesses. He soaks in the sensation of your lips and teeth softly running over the veins of his cock, your head bobbing across his length skillfully. How can an innocent and dutiful daughter like you give such mind-blowing head?

He can’t ruminate on the answer long, releasing a guttural moan as he feels his tip hit the back of your throat, the gag that rumbles from you making his cock even more sensitive.

“Angel, I’m gonna come soon,” Jake warns. “If you don’t want me to come in your mouth, let me know now.”

You look up through your lashes at him as you continue sucking on him with fierce passion, swirling your tongue across his tip.

His hand is wrapped firmly in your hair now, fucking your face as softly as he can without forcing anymore of himself down your throat. When you take a hand to cup his balls, softly kneading them between your fingers, he’s done for.

He whines pathetically as his seed shoots inside your mouth. The taste isn’t particularly pleasing, but you milk it for what it’s worth to watch him fall apart so perfectly under your attention.

The orgasm rocks through him with an unshakeable amount of pleasure, his body completely helpless as he continues to spurt into your mouth. He can only hiss and whine as you continue to touch him, letting him come down fully and taking all of him without complaint.

Jake breathes in deeply when he gains clarity again, taking you in his arms and shoving his tongue deep in your mouth. “That was probably the best blowjob I’ve ever gotten,” he states, running his fingers over your face with adoration.

You scoff and roll your eyes, his words making you shy. “I doubt it, seeing as that was my first one.”

“It was!” Jake puts a hand on his heart. “Swear to the savior himself.” Before you can rebut, Jake takes your legs in his hands and moves you to the edge of the bed.

You wake up to the hard knocks at your bedroom door, the morning sun peeking out of your window to prove the previous night has long gone.

“Honey? What did we say about locked doors in this house?”

Your father’s booming voice makes you jump up from bed, smacking Jake hard on the shoulder and chest to wake him up.

“We had an odd feeling at the hotel, so we came home early,” your mother says as you shake Jake from his sleep.

“Ow, what the fuck,” Jake grunts, his voice not quiet enough to go unnoticed. You curse yourself and the reality in front of what’s about to happen, knowing full well your parents heard him on the other side of the door.

“Sweetie, who’s in there with you?” Your mother’s shrill but concerned tone makes you cringe. Jake’s eyes bulge in response, quickly leaping from the mattress to pull on his clothes in haste.

Just when you throw your dress from last night over your head and Jake buttons up his pants, your father slams open the door with his shoulder. Your parents gasp and yell at the sight before them, the man they began to grow comfortable with in a compromising position with their only daughter and precious child.

“What in God’s name is he doing here?” Your father asks no-one in particular, stomping towards Jake’s shirtless figure and yanking him by the neck.

“Daddy, stop!” You plead, scratching and clawing at his frame to pull him off of your lover.

Your mother begins blubbering, teary-eyed before you. “Oh honey, what did he do to you?”

“Nothing,” you scream. “Please leave him alone and let us be.”

“I told you to stay away from him.” Your father stares you down, eyes blazing with fury. “Not only did you betray me, but you betrayed the sanctity of your purity. It’s a disgrace.”

Jake coughs, your father’s hands tightening around his neck. “The only disgrace is the two of you holding her back, like she’s some weak bird in a cage,” he croaks. “She can make her own decisions.”

“You stay silent, you insolent pest,” your father growls, yanking Jake out of your room and down the stairs. By the time you and your mother make it out to the bottom step, your father has thrown Jake out and onto the porch.

“Stay away from my daughter, or you’ll have another reason to pray you don’t end up burning in hell.”

“Stop it!” You step in between your father and Jake, the latter putting on what’s left of his clothes. People begin to hover too close to your family home, suddenly entrenched in the scene playing out before them.

Jake kisses your forehead and walks away in the direction of his parked bike, unsure what else he can do unless he wants to truly end up six feet under.

Your father grabs you by the upper arm and pulls you in the direction of your porch, but you resist with all your might. “You can’t make me go back in there.”

“I am your father and you will listen to me,” he grunts, holding on tight.

“Daddy, I love him!” You scream as you yank your arm away from your father, your inner strength giving way. “If you can’t accept that, I guess I’ll just have to burn hell with him. Better than wasting another second here.”

You run toward Jake’s bike and sit behind him, cinching your arms around his waist. He smiles to himself, feeling the press of your chest to his back as he puts his helmet over his head. “Are you sure about this, angel?”

You nod furiously, not bothering to look back at your red-faced family. “More than I’ve ever been.”

All you focus on is his motorcycle rumbling to life before you speed away. Your hair blows in the wind as you both escape the horrified stares of the local vipers.

You end up at a motel on the other side of town, far away from the scandal that’s surely rocking your small community by now. The deacon’s daughter running away with the bad boy next door? What a tragedy!

You run inside to miss the upcoming rain, both of you shivering from the barrage of pellets that did land on your skin. You settle onto the mattress as Jake drops the small amount of belongings he had in his possession on the dresser.

He turns to you with quiet concern, arms splayed out on the furniture as he looks at you, searching your face for any lingering doubt. “No regrets?”

You shake your head, exhausted but glad to be out of that house. “None at all.”

He breathes out a sigh of relief and sits down beside you on the bed, rubbing your thigh with his fingers. “I’m sorry.”

Your brows knit together, confusion pouring over you. You take his hand in yours, intertwining your fingers. “You have nothing to apologize for. If anything, I should be apologizing to you.”

You feel tears build at your eye ducts, your voice suddenly growing thick when you recall the scene from an hour ago. “I’m sorry my father was so horrible to you.”

“Hush, it’s okay,” he puts his other hand on your face. He kisses your lips tenderly and gracefully. How did nobody else but you see he possessed the most kind nature of anyone you’ve ever known?

Jake moves his head, his lips curving into the smile that always takes your common sense away. “I love you too, by the way.”

Your confession from earlier hits you like a heavy rock, your eyes going wide and your face turning pale. “That wasn’t the way I wanted to say it.”

“Then say it now,” Jake urges, your face resting gently between his fingers.

There’s no fear or pressure when the three words leave your lips, only the feeling of a weight lifting off of your chest. “I love you, Sim Jaeyun. I love you with my whole heart.”

His face lights up, the words seeming to set aglow something deep within him. The only right reaction seems to be in the form of his lips attaching to yours in a passionate kiss, your shared love creating a beautiful path forward for the both of you.

He whispers his next words so lightly, you almost assume the statement is a figment of your imagination. “Marry me.”

You feel your face contort into a mixture of disbelief and elation, needing to hear him say it again for it to truly resonate. “What?”

“Marry me,” he repeats, his smile stretching across his face. “Marry me now, or in three months from now, or whenever you want. Just say you will.”

You exhale a breath of astonishment, unsure if he knows how much you want to say yes, to make this as real as it sounds on his lips. He leaves your side with a kiss to your temple to grab something from his jacket.

He comes back in record time, standing in front of you and twiddling the black box in both of his hands with anxious fingers. “I brought it with me to your house last night, I just didn’t know how to ask then. But I do now.”

Like in all the stories you’ve read and movies you’ve seen in your lifetime, he sinks down onto one knee before you. You place a hand over your mouth as he opens the box, a ring with an opal-shaped diamond cushioned in the center.

“Would you please do me the honor of being my wife?” Those words on his lips, visibly shaken from his own question, make a thousand butterflies flutter inside your chest.

Months ago, if you knew then you would end up here, from the edge of the sidewalk to now, you would not change a single moment. The world had been so gray before, you didn’t know what it was like to step in the sun until he came into your life. What other answer is there?

“Yes, yes, yes,” you respond, tears flooding your eyes as he shakily places the ring on your finger. It fits just right, the stone at the center sparkling in the darkness of the motel room.

You kiss Jake’s lips with all the force your body possesses, certain there’s no better future than right beside him.

The feeling of the gold band around your finger makes Jake shudder as it touches his cock. Your body is nestled perfectly on top of his as you take what you can’t put in your mouth between your fingers.

He laps up your essence with his tongue, ecstatic to have his face covered in your juices and smothered if need be by your wet cunt. If people think wedding nights are magical, engagement nights have to be a step up.

“Fuck, Jaeyun, yes,” you roll your hips into his awaiting mouth, his tongue available for you to lay your slit onto. The expletive leaves your mouth like honey, the feeling fitting for such a dirty word.

He knows exactly how to make you fall apart and be put back together, and the thought of doing this for the rest of your life makes you want to cry again from the pure happiness inside your core.

Jake takes his lips off of your pussy and sits up. Before you can ask what he’s doing, he takes you into his lap on the bed and kisses you fiercely. You taste yourself on his tongue as he skillfully takes your breath away with his lips. When you part, he says, “Angel, I know we said we’d wait, but I don’t know how much longer I can handle not being inside of you.”

You whimper at his words and suddenly rock your center into the tip of his cock, making him groan in the process. “I mean—we’re just starting early, right?”

Jake releases a joyous laugh and kisses you hungrily, his face in a constant state of ecstasy since you said “yes” hours ago. “Right.”

The anticipation makes you even wetter, crawling to the head of the bed as Jake grabs a condom from the bedside table. If there was one thing he had promised, he swore he wouldn’t get you pregnant. Not yet, anyway.

He rolls the rubber over his cock before joining you on the bed, lining up perfectly with your center. He rubs his tip against your folds, biting his lip at how easily it gets coated in your essence. “Ready?”

You nod eagerly, a smirk filling the entire bottom half of your face.

He pushes the tip in, the pressure a foreign feeling you had never experienced before. It took time and practice to get used to the size of his fingers, but this is another level of fullness that takes your breath away.

Once Jake’s partially inside and gives you a moment to adjust, he asks, “Can I move?”

You nod your head, holding onto his shoulders for support as he begins to thrust inside of you. He loves to see his cock disappearing between your legs, your body eagerly taking him in and stretching itself out to accommodate him. He loves the way you whimper at the movement of his hips and the pleasure you’re receiving.

Better yet, he loves you. He loves all of you, from the nonsensical words you speak in your sleep to the wrinkle between your eyebrows when you get mad. You’re all his, and he’s grateful to be the only one you call yours.

“We may never leave this motel,” Jake says, his words breathy as he continues moving his hips. “I could stay inside of you for the rest of my life, angel.”

“I love you so much,” you say, inching your hand between your bodies to roll your clit between your fingers.

“I love you,” Jake says. He takes your face in his hands and kisses you like he wants to pour all of his emotions from his being into your soul, just so you know how deep his love for you goes.

It’s all so overwhelmingly beautiful, you feel the swell of your release cresting over you like a tidal wave. “Baby, I’m gonna come,” you whisper, your mouth open wide from the moans and cries you cannot suppress.

Jake groans and slams his hips into you harder, filling you to the hilt repeatedly. “Come, angel. Come for me.”

You cry out as the orgasm takes hold of your body, your fingers working on their own accord on your clit as you fall off the edge.

Jake stills not a second later, releasing into the condom and taking the last remnants of his energy to thrust inside of you a few more times.

He pulls out and throws the rubber in a nearby trash can. His sweaty body clings to yours, hands rubbing up and down your arm tenderly as he kisses the curve of your shoulder.

You see the flash of your ring in the glow of the motel’s neon sign, and you think about how the night could not have gone any better.

Jake may be a bit reckless and not what you initially imagined for your future, but now that you have him, you wouldn’t give him up for anything. All the parts of you that stayed buried for so long have resurfaced because of him, and you could not be more grateful.

With your left hand a touch heavier than it was some hours ago, you fall asleep to the sound of the rain hitting the window and Jake’s rising and falling chest.

You walk out of your mother’s house, happy to have made a visit with her before she ran off to do her morning errands.

What you’re not pleased to encounter is the same crowd of women huddled with their homemade fans and cups of lemonade. They weren’t there when you arrived a few hours ago. Of course they show up when you have no chance of escaping them, like the vultures they are.

“Mrs. Sim,” Mrs. Choi says, her tone entirely made of stone with little warmth. “Pleasure to see you.”

Your new surname gives you indescribable amounts of happiness. It took your parents some time to get used to, but eventually, they realized you put your heart in the right place. Your father took his sweet time getting there, begrudgingly admitting a short time ago Jake is a very acceptable son-in-law, the turnaround of his perception of your husband complete.

You give the crotchety ringleader a fake smile and attempt to walk away, but Mrs. Lee interjects. “How’s your mister doing working at the church now?”

“Great,” you say, genuinely happy to talk about a topic you care for. “Jaeyun loves the kids. Little Yuna might actually be a guitar prodigy from what he’s told me.”

They all coo, practically synchronized in their sips of lemonade and fan flurries.

“Soon enough you’ll have one of your own, I’m sure,” Mrs. Choi remarks with sarcasm, her red-lipstick-stained front teeth on full display.

“Not too soon now,” Jake suddenly says, walking up the pathway to your mother’s house and taking you in by the waist. “My wife has to finish her Masters first. How else is she gonna start teaching at the community college?”

My wife. No matter how long it’s been since you officially got married in your church, that day a year ago forever ingrained in your memory, it still warms you to the bones hearing those words leave Jake’s lips.

The women all express signs of agreement, some nodding while others hum.

“We better get back home now, but you ladies have a nice day!” Jake bids them goodbye and walks you both down the stairs with his hand on the small of your back. Even if he were to be more than the perfect gentleman in front of them, they would still linger around with pesky eyes and constantly moving lips.

“They’re still betting we’re gonna crash and burn, aren’t they?” Jake whispers, teasing you with a wiggle of his eyebrows.

You shake your head. You fall more in love with him every day that passes, no matter what the people around you do or don’t see. They may have their opinions, but it won’t shake the foundation you’ve built. “Well, they’re sure to be disappointed if I have anything to say about it.”

Jake’s eyes widen, his expression humorous yet surprised. “Easy, angel. Don’t want to have to tear my wife off of a nosy wine mom.”

Your heart aches at his words, him fully aware of what two of them in particular do to you. “I love you.”

Jake grins, inching his face closer to yours. “I’d love nothing more than to kiss you right now, but what would everyone say?” He asks with a mock face of horror.

You shrug without much care, grinning. “Someone once told me ‘fuck everyone else.’ And right now I couldn’t agree more.”

Jake laughs before he places a gentle kiss to your lips, the sun radiating off of him in waves as he pulls you closer.

No matter what anyone in your small town has to say, your choices are yours; you’re perfectly happy with how your life has turned out whether they think so too or not. And you will always choose Sim Jaeyun, now and forever.

@yvnempire @sjylouvre @mini-mews @jayparked @heesuncore @yoursjaeyun @sungbeams @jenoslutie @loserlvrss

𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤𝐬 ౨ৎ˚₊

@kvanity-main @sweetvenomnet @onedoornet @sayxonet @violetanet @svthub @whipped-kpop-creators

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augmerin · 3 months ago

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emperor!sukuna who you were nurtured from young to be wed off to, your parents working behind the scenes, scheming and pulling strings to ensure your standing next to him

emperor!sukuna who on your wedding day, found your reactions to him to be quite amusing—seeing how there's a hidden fire underneath your little obedient act, better than those old minded fools who only nod and smile at his words

a fire that ended up being your saving grace when you finished through the whole ceremony alive and in one piece

emperor!sukuna who used your wedding day as a way to weed out traitors and send a warning to your parents for using such cheap tricks—you—to tie him down through marriage of all things, yet ensured your sight remains on him despite the ongoing carnage behind you

somehow, he prefers your eyes on him ever since the moment you walked into the hall dressed in nothing but fine silk

emperor!sukuna who seemed to look at you as a fun little plaything, an entertainment for his seemingly endless, monotonous days; summoning you to the court room just to waste your time, pushing your buttons to see you snap just for you to regret it, finding humor in the way you would tense and wait for his next action

emperor!sukuna who once walked in on you reading a book in the imperial library, your voice echoing throughout the quiet atmosphere as you read to yourself, standing for quite some time while hidden from sight as if hypnotized

emperor!sukuna who disturbs your reading time the next day, plopping into the seat before you and demanding you to continue reading out loud, reveling in the way you flushed after being caught speaking out loud to yourself

emperor!sukuna who brings back prized harvests from his hunts, thinking of how such fine fur would fit you, but instead presenting it to you as nothing more than some trash he picked up from the side of the paths he traveled

though the pristine condition says otherwise

emperor!sukuna who begins to seek out your presence, intentionally disturbing you throughout different times of the day just to get a glimpse of your face and the various emotions you seem to wear despite trying your hardest to remain indifferent

emperor!sukuna who feels a certain sense of satisfaction when he noticed how your shoulders no longer tense by being in the same room as him, how your smile no longer seem strained at the slightest provocation and instead turned into one of teasing

emperor!sukuna who found solace in doing the most mundane things with you, whether it be having meals and teatimes, walking around the gardens, lazing around in his private chambers

emperor!sukuna who now treats you as a, if not his, precious being, not letting you out of his sight, dressing you in only the finest garments and glittering jewels, who would do anything to ensure that you’ll grace him with a smile and that little twinkle in your eyes

emperor!sukuna who is still a bloodthirsty, cruel man, but in your arms, he is nothing more than a docile husband who loves his wife for eternity and beyond

first sukuna drabble...might be part of a series if im not lazy LMAO

#jjk x reader #jujutsu kaisen x reader #jjk x you #jujutsu kaisen #jjk #sukuna x reader #sukuna ryoumen x reader #sukuna x you #sukuna ryomen x you #jjk fluff #jjk angst #rinnie writes ✩彡

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enhaven · 27 days ago

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dew drops ⤑ psh (m.)

summary: with the continuous change of weather, waiting for spring to arrive feels like forever. but when you unexpectedly had to volunteer in participating at your campus’ yearly Easter egg hunt, what you're searching for might be the least of your concerns.

pairing: sunghoon x reader

genre/au: smut, fluff, strangers to lovers, easter!au, university!au

word count: 15.2k

warnings/content: mentions of religion and folklore?, ovulation, making out, exhibitionism, pet names, explicit sexual content, breeding ig? multiple sex scenes, slight corruption?

author’s note: i had visions after i saw this ad back in february but only started writing this near the end of April. it's finally getting warmer here y’all, i hope you enjoy this late Easter treat <3

Easter weekend.

The long weekend that everybody has been looking forward to — particularly those who are working or always busy, you included. Preparations for the grand celebration that weekend took a long time, and it got particularly intense during the last few days. However, much to your relief, you’re free of religious duties on its final day so you were able to celebrate with your family.

But then here you are the day after, back at campus for your university’s annual Easter egg hunt. You weren’t supposed to attend the event but final exams have been rolling out since the second week of the month. There's no way to take ahold of any of your fellow club members to participate, leading you to volunteer as its representative in the end.

The student council already has a hard time to gain any participants since classes are technically over. Students are either busy studying for their upcoming ones or are already gone for vacation. What better way to promote engagement than emphasized that any club participating in the event will get extra funding for the next school year, bonus, if their representatives win the games as well.

So the option to ditch would be a waste.

Especially for you and your club. It's already not on the priority list for campus funding due to its size in comparison to other larger organizations. As an executive member, it's your responsibility to improve the status of your club as long as you're able and this is your chance.

Thankfully though, some of your club members cheered you on so it didn't feel like you were all alone.

“you guys are lucky i love y’all” you huff through the phone as you trudge through the pathway towards the wide clearing. It's located behind the natural sciences building which is right by the forest. There’s a trail here that leads to a bridge then a stream that runs by the clearing before the surrounding trees.

You didn't even need to follow the signs to reach there. The path is pretty familiar to you since you've taken walks here before to clear your mind.

“it’s a de-stressor event anyway! time to relax miss president!” your vice president, Ruka, cheers you on. You did miss her bright energy since she went back home to Japan after her exams finished a week ago. Most, if not all international students usually leave campus as soon as they’re done for the school year.

"yeah yeah whatever, I'm not gonna try to win anything" you roll your eyes even though she couldn't see you.

You're exhausted from all the festivities and had no time to actually rest. Joining this wouldn't be too bad since you're using this as an excuse to relax like she suggested. Find a good spot where you can hide and just sit there until the event is over. You can try to meditate or even sleep then retrieve your proof of participation later.

“you have to! for us!” she protests with a loud wail and jerk from the volume.

“well, none of you are here” you remind her and that quieted her down. You didn't mean for your tone to come out that way, already imagining her pouting at your playful scolding. You shake your head because she's seconds to giving you a long explanation.

“I'm not mad okay?” you clarify just in case. Despite how close you two have gotten, people often times assume things about you a lot. Not that Ruka would, but it became a habit for you over the years.

“i know but i do feel bad” she counters, sounding defeated. “treats when you get back then” you tease to break the awkward silence after and she brightens up. “souvenirs have been ready for you and the rest of course!”

The clearing came into view so you said your goodbye to Ruka. You're just in time when the host begins announcing the details of the event which you didn’t bother listening to. Their voice is loud yes so there's no way you'd miss anything regardless. You're not even taking this seriously, the bare minimum should do.

Walking up to the front, you picked a random small and round woven basket with pastel decorations from the table without much thought. Smiling at the volunteers, you head towards the forest to begin your “hunt”.

Trudging through the trees, the ground doesn't give you a hard time yet. Barely greenery is around and the soil was tender because of the rain from a couple of days ago. Today's weather is better than you expected, slightly cold but not too much that you’re able to wear your halter mini dress that you got from the seasonal sale before the long weekend.

Spring is a bit delayed this year but some flowers have started to bloom. As you walk further into the forest, the grass became more prominent and greener, lifting your mood immediately.

Looking around to check if there are other students with you, there are none. You've seen them dispersed earlier and you were surprised that you ended up alone. Granted that you really didn't want to participate but you thought there would be volunteers monitoring everyone.

They’re probably in the other areas hunting for the golden egg which is the grand price.

You're here to hunt something else and your eyes spots an area behind a blooming garden. It stands out between the trees, its surroundings is filled with luscious greenery which is a perfect spot for you to wind down. Where you are currently is probably beyond the designated area to search but that wasn't your goal anyways.

This one is and you finally found it.

You need to claim it before anyone does. If anyone sees you, they might follow you here and disturb your serenity.

Settling down at a nearby tree trunk, you place your basket to the ground beside you. Taking a deep breath of fresh air, you try to clear your head while you can. It's one of the only times that you can have a peace of mind. Not possible when you're home because it's always been loud.

Leaning back at the trunk, you've looked up to the bright blue sky before closing your eyes. Taking a short nap would be good but the little noise coming from your side snaps your eyes back open. Your heart pumps, debating if you should just go back to sleep and pretend you didn't hear it or not.

But then what if it's just nothing? or worst case, a wild animal who's waiting to pounce.

And you don’t want to alert it. Slowly, you turn to the side, cautious in the way you lift your body off the ground.

The noise stopped, making you pause. However, you're still curious, itching to check what it was just in case you hear it again. Following where you suspect its source could be, you proceed to enter a small clearing beyond the rows of tulips.

You couldn’t be more surprised at the scene.

A very gorgeous man dressed in a light pink polo shirt with a slightly darker shade of pink sweater vest on top. His dress pants matches his polo shirt, the whole fit complimenting your white floral dress.

You’ve never seen him before nor encountered such beauty.

It took you a moment before you start to speak. “excuse me, are you one of the volunteers?” you asked, noticing some colourful and shiny eggs around a small bump by his feet.

He must be so he's definitely here to report you. The council probably added extra volunteers to trick the participants who tried to break rules. You couldn't possibly be the first one to do so.

You spoke too soon.

He looks confused at your question but hesitantly nodded at you with a shy smile. You're taken aback at how dreamy he is from afar, looking extra adorable with his fluffy permed hair. You wonder if it was mandatory for them to dress up for this event. This gorgeous man definitely upped it up a few more levels.

You find yourself smiling so wide as you shift your weight from one leg and vice versa. Your hoping this polite looking volunteer just see it as your enthusiasm for the Easter hunt.

“i heard a noise and thought it was some wild animal” you begin explaining when he didn't even ask you a question. He looks like he wanted you to talk more so internally sigh in relief before you'll start to yap. It happens a lot when you’re nervous, especially around good looking guys.

And you don't want to embarrass yourself. It'll be his first impression of you.

“by the way, is this a special level? that’s why no one has discovered this area yet?”

The consequent questions fly out from your mouth before you could stop them. He didn’t reply, causing you to look at him nervously. He mirrors your anxiousness but maybe he’s just a little shy. Thankfully didn’t mind, nodding at you again.

You're unsure what to do next but he smiles at you, washing away your concerns. Deciding to approach him, you match his smile in the process, possibly brighter and gave him your name.

The area's grass is softer and less harsh. He's inside the circular sheepskin rug in a jaded green colour with huge light pink faux fur cushions that matches his outfit. Most of the eggs are placed on top of them, giving the ultimate Easter Egg Hunt display.

You walk towards where the dreamy volunteer is standing to look at the eggs, fascinated at how expensive they look compared to the other Easter eggs you've seen before.

Shit, what if this is the most difficult level? You're surprised that the university even allocated a big budget for this event. The promise of extra funding in exchange of participation made sense now.

“my name is Sunghoon”

He finally talks, in a soft and sweet voice. It made you pause flinging your Easter basket around. He bows slightly when you return your gaze at him.

He’s polite and pretty.

You’ve never met a man this pretty before.

And you’re smitten already.

This is bad because you shouldn't be falling for a man this quick. You need to focus on the eggs. Yes, right, the Easter eggs. The nearest to him seem to be the special ones.

“what’s the challenge to get one of those?” you ask, willing your focus on those shiny pastel eggs instead of his presence.

“just try to remove them from where they're placed" he mutters softly that you almost didn't hear him. Humming in response, you begin your mission to bring at least one inside your basket.

The thing is, you may have underestimated these eggs.

They ended up being heavy and glossy, which makes it harder to hold and carry without slipping off your hands. Another option is to roll them to your basket but it looks fragile and you don't want to risk breaking it.

You'd have to drop it slowly inside.

From your peripheral view, you notice Sunghoon watching you intently. Suddenly you're conscious since he's watching you struggle.

You can't let a pretty man witness your failure. It's embarrassing for a first impression but he doesn't say anything. You wanted to turn to him and watch his reaction but he's already distracting you this way. Besides these are merely Easter eggs. You may haven't participated in any hunts when you were kid but it couldn't be this hard.

"do you need help?" he offers and you almost lost hold of the egg you're holding on a lower level. You're literally squatting so the distance between the ground and the height of level is much closer. He must've been frustrated at watching you repeatedly try and fail again after a while.

"no! I'm still good to go!" you chirp, breathing heavily as you try to lift the vista blue egg. You decide to drop the previous one, your arms are now aching so you took a breather before trying again. This might be easier since located on the top of the ashy green hill-like stump.

You're hoping gravity would cooperate, come on Newton.

Dropping your basket at the foot of the stump, you prepare to lift the egg off the ground. The weight was manageable but you've exerted yourself with the other eggs before. Add that you're wearing a lovely mini dress, the slope doesn't work well with your platform sandals.

Throwing you off balance.

You should've worn comfortable pants.

Instead of falling back, a pair of hands catches your body in time before reaching the ground.

"be careful," Sunghoon mutters softly beside you, abruptly cutting your yelp midway. His lithe fingers holding your waist gently offers a sense of immediate comfort. You're too flustered to respond, realizing that you embarrassed yourself once again.

At least you're in his arms.

What.

“t-thank you” you reply with a sharp intake, still processing what just happened and the feel of his touch. He hasn’t removed his hands from your waist yet but somehow, you like the feel of them on you.

Plus, he smells good. Like roses. The pink ones. Not intense like the red.

You find yourself leaning back against his chest as you close your eyes. The sudden comfort enveloping you with the way he’s holding you.

“you’re very welcome, beautiful” your eyes open at his reply, the way he called you beautiful. You were surprised at his effect on you and that he made the first move. Your ogling earlier might've been obvious but you didn't think he'd be this straightforward.

Maybe he wasn’t so shy after all.

“i can try again” you blurted out, leaving his hold because you feel awkward all of a sudden. You hear him clearing his throat, prompting you to turn to him.

You find Sunghoon back to his stoic facade but he's looking everywhere but you. You must've made him uncomfortable but he wouldn't call you beautiful if he was right? Or he was just being polite and calling you that to fluster you to get off of him.

Sunghoon picks up your Easter basket, handing it to you while you compose yourself. It’s not a big deal. It shouldn’t be but you’re stressing about it now. You're not impressing anyone here since Sunghoon's just doing his job as a volunteer.

And you're making it difficult for him even when you didn’t plan on hunting eggs in the first place.

“maybe try the ones by the base” he suggested, pointing at the peach and pastel red eggs.

Good. He's leering you back on track.

“you can sit down hoon, you can’t stand the whole time. this might take a while”

You honestly felt bad that Sunghoon has to stand because how perilous you are. However, the nickname slips out of you and it's too late to stop it. “wait, hoon?” he turns to you as he sits down at the hill’s base, looking at you expectantly.

“can i call you that? or is it too soon?” you ask with hesitation. He looks like he doesn't mind it but you've probably pushed yourself to him this early. It's just that you like giving nicknames in general; then he saved you from further embarrassment so you feel a little affectionate.

“you can call me anything,” he smiles a little, looking at you fondly for someone that he just met. You've been starting to question his shyness when he hit on you earlier but he's probably more comfortable with you now.

You smile at him before returning your attention to the eggs that he pointed earlier. I'm getting you both no matter what. Sunghoon seems to notice, following your gaze at your target. He gives a small chuckle which whirled your focus a little but you've conquered the temptation to look at him.

Placing your basket beside Sunghoon, you locked your eyes on the egg behind him. Reaching out with both hands, your fingers carefully test your grip on the egg. The thing is, you can feel Sunghoon's eyes boring through you from your peripheral view and you’re getting self-conscious again.

He's back to watching your every move and you've been doing your best to only get distracted but also succeed with one egg.

Crawling up the slope causes your thighs to be exposed further. There's no wind today so Sunghoon's saved from being flashed without his consent. Still, despite being used to wearing dresses, your proximity with Sunghoon is making you nervous. There's nothing to worry about since he's been a gentleman so far, proven with how gently he's held you and how he's only looking at your face, unlike most guys.

You've taken a pause, wondering if getting the egg is still worth it. So far, all you've done is try to retrieve any egg but you're close to giving up. Giving a push to the egg so it'll roll down the base, your Easter basket's been waiting to receive it but you might not have a basket in the end as a result. You can't even ask Sunghoon for help cause it'll be cheating.

Either you gave up now or embarrass yourself and waste both you and Sunghoon's time.

"i forfeit" you grumble, still trying to push the damn egg with no luck.

"you're almost succeeding," Sunghoon cheers on but it only made you upset. He moves at a respectable distance to convince you to continue. You gotta give it to him, he's still got the enthusiasm while yours drained out.

"no point, hoon. I've tried my best" you resign, switching to sit on your heels.

"that's alright. you'd still get something right?" he's looking at the bright side while something clicked in you.

He's right, you did, meeting a gorgeous gentleman like him. And you will, that is, get him.

Sunghoon must've felt the change of your demeanour. He tenses when he sees you smile mischievously at him. He tried to look unaffected but you're honestly confused at your sudden desire to be near him. The surprise is clear from his adorable pretty face when you reach out for his arm, wondering why you're pulling him closer to you instead.

"do you need anything?" he asks as soon as your attention solely on him.

"maybe" you whisper, staring at him like he's your target instead of those Easter eggs. You truly don't know what's gotten over you. It's like this man suddenly bewitched you to come after him. You were already enamoured of his beauty earlier, the comfort you felt with the way he treated you shifted your focus on having him instead of those eggs.

He inhales sharply at your vague answer, his head tilting to the side as he studies you with those wenged-coloured eyes. The gesture made you feel conscious with the way his eyes are scanning your body. It's the first time that he did and you're feeling hot all over, not knowing what to do next when his gaze descends further.

It's funny how the tides changed quickly, it's you who's now fiddling the hem of your mini dress because you're anxious of his next move.

"come here," he says softly as he straightens one of his long legs, leaving you confused.

Sunghoon then pats his thigh and you understood, crawling towards him. The thin grass pricks at the skin of your knees but you couldn't look away from Sunghoon searing stare. You again surprised yourself with how fast you obeyed his words.

All thoughts of the hunt and the Easter eggs flew away as soon as you reach Sunghoon. He cages your body in his arms, holding your waist like how he did earlier when he caught you. You're situated on his lap, waiting for you to say something but your brows only scrunches.

A teasing smile appears on his handsome face.

"do you know what you want now?" he asks again but instead of replying with words, you lean in, stopping only when your face is at a small distance from his. You don't know where this bravery of yours came from but it's now or never.

"yes", you answer before giving him a peck on the lips.

You wish it was too quick. Sunghoon's lips caught your eye earlier because of how pink and glossy they are. Now you know how soft they feel against yours too.

And you wanted more.

Sunghoon goes rigid the moment your lips touched. His hands jerked from holding your waist and now you're afraid if you got the wrong idea. After he gave you a sign earlier, you wanted to initiate this time. Or maybe it wasn't. Calling you "beautiful" is just how he breaks the ice with girls and you're no exception. It could be a part of his job, as a distraction and he definitely succeeded.

"I'm so-"

The apology was cut off when you feel Sunghoon's lips again. He didn't pull back immediately like you expected, the slight stickiness of his glossy lips attaches to yours as he moves his lips. But before you can open your mouth to deepen the kiss, he retreats. "may i?"

You're bewildered at his question since he already kissed you. Regardless, you nodded, only then realizing he's pertaining to touching you. His soft hand slides down from your waist, not stopping until he reaches the end of your dress. He pushes it up so he can slide in his palms along your bare thigh.

Sunghoon finally pulls your body closer to his, drawing a surprise gasp from you. Your hands that were on his shoulders automatically moves to hold the back of his head, your fingers tousling his fluffy permed hair that extends down to his neck.

You both stayed like that for a bit, just holding each other contently while staring into each other's eyes.

"i don't think I've told you how pretty you are, Sunghoon," you mutter, one of your hands moving to trace his features with the tip of your fingers. His skin feels so soft between your touches that you just want to hold his face forever.

From the thick eyebrows down the sharp slope of his nose, you couldn't believe someone with such beauty exists.

"you're more beautiful," he replies softly before he kisses you again.

This time, Sunghoon allows himself to drown in you, opening his mouth to deepen the kiss. The sudden hunger he's finally letting out has taken you back that you couldn't help but smile in between kisses.

You're both interrupted by the loud rings of bells, breaking your make out session. Your attention shifts to the series of faint voices clearly from a megaphone, clearly announcing the end of the hunt. You've gotten nothing done except being on Sunghoon's lap.

However, the man beneath you ignores when he just heard. He proceeds to kiss your jaw then his lips move down to your neck, breathing in your scent deeply.

"you smell so good" he groans against your skin, clutching your waist at the same time. It's the first time you've heard him this way and it's making your whole body shiver.

Sunghoon's been holding back and you love testing boys.

"hoon, don't we need to head back? they might look for us soon" you nudge his shoulders, trying to bring your focus to the concern at hand. The other volunteers could be rounding up all the participants and will find out that you're missing from the list.

Although they knew that you weren't going to take this seriously, they still have to take an attendance.

Sunghoon’s touches are luring you back though. He cups your face with one hand and caresses your waist with the other; his way of reassuring you.

"we can stay, don't worry, i won't tell anyone" he whispers against your lips before capturing your them again.

Sunghoon's tempting offer begins to tug at you. His words did the magic, calming your worry and pushes you to focus on his kisses instead. Besides, maybe you can just retrieve the compensation for participating later. You'd have Sunghoon as a back up to prove that you did try your best.

“are you sure?” you ask again and he nods. “if i don’t get that extra funding, you’re to blame” you giggle, punching his chest playfully.

Sunghoon only smiles at your whims, knowing you've already succumbed to him. You resume kissing him, the both of you growing more hungry for each other as time passes by. His soft kneading of your thigh turned into a hard grip. Probably because you've unconsciously been rolling your hips against his crotch.

"do you need a break?" he breathes out as he releases you, licking his swollen lips in the process. Your gaze automatically landed on them, so shiny like it's calling you to take a bite. You'd love to but Sunghoon's lips have tasted so sweet, stopping your urge to draw blood from them.

He calls your name softly, urging you to take a breather. You didn't really need to, the need to kiss him rising the more stops to tease you. He has to be teasing you or he'd be all over you right away. Nevertheless, you lean back to take a good look at Sunghoon's current state. His hair's more disheveled with all your pulling but it's his dilated pupils that's boring through you that has your heart racing.

And the obvious hardness that's poking between your inner thighs.

"oh? are you sure you want me to, hoonie?" you tease, smirking at him. The new nickname perks his attention, breaking his desiring gaze. Only then he realized what you meant, his cheeks flushing as he looks down when you keep staring.

"it'll go away, don't worry" he mumbles shyly, still not meeting your inspecting gaze.

Even when he's painfully hard, he's still adorable. So you take it upon yourself to let him know that you want him too. Feeling how hard he is further ignited your hormones. You're sure he can feel how wet you already are.

Guess he's the type to let to let others take charge.

Your hand reaches out to lift Sunghoon's knitted top along with his polo shirt, revealing a lean stomach to your hungry eyes. Skin unbelievably pale, you're tempted to scratch your nails along his visible abs but that's for another time. If there will be after this; you'd just have to convince him with your charms.

Sunghoon's breath hitches when you trace the lean muscles of his stomach. You can see them tightening the more your fingers skitters around the edge of his pants. You're tempted to tease him like he did earlier, of if he did actually, he was genuine but you never know.

The bulge in front of you further incites you to circle the buttons of Sunghoon's pants teasingly. He's anticipating what's to come, blown out eyes simultaneously drifting between your exposed thighs and your hand.

"may i?" you ask softly as you look up to his handsome face. Hearing the question he asked you earlier cracks a shy smile on his lips. He nodded after as answer and you swear you a soft glint in his eyes, a sign that he's touched.

Slowly, you begin unbuttoning Sunghoon's pants and he lifts his hips so you can pull it off halfway. Much to your surprise, he's wearing a white silk underwear that looks expensive. He's different indeed because you haven't met any guy that wore one before.

"they're breathable" he mumbles an explanation as he looks away, a hint of embarrassment in his tone which made you smile. He looks adorable pouting but you hope he's not getting the wrong message with your reaction. You're simply amazed, admiring how pretty he is down to details.

"fancy, I'd say. it fits you perfectly" you say fondly as you pull it down, freeing his rock hard cock from its confines. You catch it with your hand as it springs up, the twitching almost made you want to suck him off to reassure him but your impatience takes over.

Stroking it slowly, Sunghoon's breathing starts to heavy, bringing back his attention to your hand. You're like in a trance, eyes remaining on his cock, so focused on spreading the precum around his head. He starts moaning and your eyes perked up, catching his pleading eyes in time before he closes them. He'll never tell you to stop so you release him.

A small chuckle leaves you when his eyes opened the moment you did. You didn't let him have a moment, moving to straddle his lap. You can feel his bare cock rubbing against your clothed pussy and you'd want nothing but want him inside you. Your mini dress hiking up once again, much to Sunghoon's delight. He reaches under to pull your frilly undies down, cupping your cunt once.

"you're soaked" he comments, astonished how wet you already are before plunging two of his long fingers inside your caverns. You're unsure if Sunghoon's aware that you're ovulating. He would've felt how wet you are since earlier, dripping so much that you worry your juices will reach his cuff the more he moves his fingers.

"h-hoon, please?"

He nods, removing his fingers from you right away so you could guide his length to your core. Before doing so, you quickly move back to pull it off from one leg, leaving it on the other because you're too impatient.

You rarely beg but you couldn't care how desperate you sounded when Sunghoon's the same case. His rushed hands and the way his breath quickens when you touch him. Sunghoon's too irresistible for you to wait around, the need to have him carnally encourages you to drop your hips, sinking into his cock without second thoughts.

Whimpers escape you since Sunghoon's quite generous in both thickness and length. You wanted to watch yourself while taking him in but the slight sting had you closing your eyes. Sunghoon helps you by pulling your body in, leading to your hands that are holding his shoulders moves to pull his hair.

Your foreheads to touch one another and you felt a sense of steadiness.

"couldn't wait any longer" he breathes out, his fingers circling the sides of your waist to comfort you. He lets you adjust to his size, leaving feather light kisses along your neck until you feel comfortable enough to roll your hips.

When you reopen your eyes, you meet Sunghoon's blown out ones. It's the only way you can tell he's affected by all these aside from his heavy breathing and disheveled hair caused by you. Meanwhile, you're already a mess when you both barely started, hair's sticking on your skin with all the licking that Sunghoon has done.

Rolling your hips experimentally, you grab Sunghoon’s shoulders for stability. He's followed your suit with how quick you are on gripping him, his gentle caress of your back turned into desperate digging.

None of you talked save for the exchanged panting and moaning in between kisses. He's pretty quieter than other boys but that doesn't affect how good he is at fucking you.

Sunghoon’s mouth returns to your neck but this time, his face continues down to your chest. You’re expecting him to pull down your neckline but instead, he only nuzzles your clothed tits affectionately as he starts bucking his hips up into you.

His fluffy hair tickling your clavicle almost made you giggle but Sunghoon cuts it off when he suddenly delivers a sharp thrust.

“fuck, oh my–“ the loud moan escapes you when he unexpectedly finds the bundle of nerves. Noticing how loud you’ve gotten, Sunghoon thrusts up again, hitting that same spot, strangely not bothered that anyone could hear you easily. You’ve wrapped your hands around his head at this point, squeezing his face further against your clothed breasts.

Despite how tight your bodies are pressed tightly against one another, Sunghoon manages to slip his hand underneath your dress. He rubs your swollen bud as you grind more on his cock to get that satisfaction again. Your lower abdomen has been tightening and you scream Sunghoon's name as you unravel before him.

He gives you time to recover before he cages your body securely, moving you both down the mound of grass. He lays you down carefully, your back hitting the ground as he removes himself from you. You whine in displeasure, making grabby hands at him but he only chuckles.

Sunghoon's hand reaches for your undies to pull it off your leg completely, placing it on one of the cushions. You on the other hand, don't even care where it'll be, spreading your legs after to entice him to put his cock back into you. However, instead of indulging you, he flips you to your stomach. Not for long cause he hauls you up to your knees, surprising you with his strength.

Then he enters you again, ripping a yelp from you at the rough intrusion while you're trying to hold on to the soft grass beneath you.

Shit, this is why he asked you to take a breather.

"you feel amazing around me" he moans after delivering another precise thrust, increasing the speed of his hips that you have no choice but only whimper and spew incoherent curses. As far as you know, the quiet and shy ones are revealed to be freaks on the sheets, proven with Sunghoon's great ability at rearranging your insides.

"ngh–hoonie.." you cry, sensing another wave of orgasm rising from you.

"what if i make you mine? would you let me, pretty?" he asks in a steady voice, still so polite even when he’s fucking you into oblivion.

You take back what you said about Sunghoon usually letting others to take charge. You've clearly misread him. It crosses your mind that maybe everything was on purpose — that this has been his style all along.

Other than manhandling you, there's an edge to his voice beneath the politeness, something you should've noticed but you're too blinded by how dreamy he is this whole time. Aside from his cock's nonstop battering along your walls, your ears don't miss the loud smacks from your skin slapping that are echoing around the trees.

The thought of other participants or volunteers finding you both fucking here makes you tighten around Sunghoon. He groans at that and you did it again so you can hear more of him. You couldn't help it anyway when he fucks this good, anyone would. Then his questions finally sink in to your pleasure-muddled brain briefly.

You didn't like the thought of others fucking him.

"a-already yours," you moan out, mind too muddled to register the implication of your words to him.

Your sudden declaration breaks Sunghoon's composure. He lets out a loud and deep groan, body almost collapsing on top of yours. Although you can’t see him, you can tell he’s pleased with your answer. His fingers stroke your sides as he gets louder, a mix of humming and moaning emitting from him.

You're out of breath from his relentless thrusts but that didn't stop you from trying to meet his hips. Once he senses what you're doing, he moves a hand up to briefly squeeze your breasts, while his other one holds your hip for balance.

“I'm near, love” he rasps behind you, his hips pounding you intensely that you're almost being shoved down to the ground if it were not for your strong grip on the grass. A couple snaps of his hips later and his body pauses, filling you up with his warm cum.

“so full of me..” he muses mindlessly, his tightened grip on your hips loosening as he rides his high. Sunghoon's rutting into you ever since, his pace slowing down but his strokes are deeper. He removes a hand from holding you, sneaking in front to rub your swollen bud, triggering another orgasm from you.

“y-yeah, hoonie..feels good!" you babble, too fucked out and messy to form any more words other than your nickname for him all while gripping the grass below you.

“You want more?,” Sunghoon coos and you nod desperately. You feel more of his cum spilling into your swollen cunt as he continues to fill you up until he has nothing more to give.

When your elbows finally give up, he begins to remove his cock from you, careful not to spill anything even though it's useless. You protest in return even when your body collapses after, whining because you want his cock back snuggled in you.

Your combined juices drip down your legs and you're too weak to clean yourself up. Sunghoon rushes to help you when you try getting up on your own, assisting you to stand up so you can rest on the nearest cushion. He's holding you gently, a real contrast to how rough he's held your hips earlier while he was fucking you.

Sunghoon helps you lie down and you immediately reach out for him to join you. He chuckles at your request, acquiescing without a word. He stretches out his left arm before he lies beside you, inviting you to put your head on it.

Only then you realized that he never removed any of his layered tops this whole time.

"you don't feel hot?" your voice came out hoarse from all the moaning, catching Sunghoon's attention. Although his permed bangs covered his thick brows, the rise of his brow is visible as he scans your sleepy face. "no, not at all," he quips, the curve of his glossy lips lifting into a small smile.

Despite wearing a dress, your whole body's on fire with the intense fucking. You're just grateful that the weather chose to be perfect today, you didn't sweat as much as you expected. The man beside you however, didn't look any different than the first time you met him. Now that you've both calmed down, Sunghoon's looking at you like you've known each other for a while.

He's not the type to get attached easily does he?

It wouldn't matter since you're on the same boat. It could be your hormones talking but you feel like you can trust Sunghoon.

Never in your life you thought you'd have sex with a stranger out in the open and on campus grounds too. Not only that but you also let him finish inside you even when you just met which never happened before no matter how hot those guys were. Strangely though, you didn't worry as much as you'd expected.

Maybe it's all the exhaustion and you'll have a clarity later on.

You woke up lying on a soft cushion of baby pink fur, nuzzling your face to it as you rouse from a deep sleep. The sky has turned darker, with a hint of purple due to the rays of the setting sun. The clouds have turned pink, painting a beautiful landscape above you and Sunghoon.

It's a perfect way to wake up, feeling like you're in a dream or a main character in some movie. In addition, you feel Sunghoon’s arm wrapped around your waist. You haven't moved yet to indicate you're awake, relishing his gentle touches thinking you're still asleep. His body's not flushed against yours but his caress on your stomach sends a rush of butterflies through you.

You suddenly turn around to face Sunghoon and he jerks in surprise. The serenity in his face was replaced with worry that he woke you up from your slumber.

“am i making you uncomfortable?” he panics but you chuckle instead, finding his question adorable. You shake your head no, cupping his glowing face with your hands to not worry him.

He literally just fucked you hours ago and he's more concerned of how you perceived him after when you're currently very comfortable in his arms.

"I'm just not used to clingy guys…especially pretty ones" you say slowly, waiting for any reaction from Sunghoon. Usually, guys take offense at the word "clingy" but instead, he reacted the opposite. His cheeks turned pink at the word "pretty" and you poking his two moles made him flush more.

Sunghoon immediately hides his face in the crook of your neck, unable to face you after you pointed out his blushing by rubbing his cheeks.

Oh, he's too precious for you to let go.

“listen, i know we just met but do you wanna go with me to the spring formal?” you rapidly ask before you chicken out, nervously waiting for Sunghoon with your uncertain but pleading eyes.

It's not mandatory but there will be an award ceremony happening for the best clubs on campus which you don't want to miss. You can technically go alone, like most people who simply went with their friends. But this year, you want to go with someone for once. With how busy everyone is, you had no time to ask people to come with you so Sunghoon's your last hope.

He was quiet for a while but he looks surprised. Your mind's starting to overthink but you see the smile slowly forming on his pretty lips. "I would be honoured" he whispers, eyes lightening at your offer. His smile fully brightened when you grin in relief that you're able to see his beautiful canines.

Sunghoon leans in for a kiss which you welcomed, feeling his hand move down lower from your belly. He kneads your thighs before he sneaks under your dress to cup your soiled pussy. A soft gasp escapes you at the contact, breaking the kiss as your body squirms with his ministrations. Your back arches a little when you feel the tips of his delicate fingers trace your sodden folds, checking to see if you need more of him.

Sunghoon's radiant eyes are so focused on the faces you're making. He's looking at you like you gave him a pot of gold when you should be the one feeling that way since he agreed to be your date. The only thing left to worry about is the dress you'll wear to the event. You've got a date now who's currently making you feel amazing that you're tempted to fuck him again.

Can't let that happen. Good thing nature's on your side too.

“do you wanna head out? it’s getting darker” you tug his sleeve, getting up from the cushion. You feel better now but you still struggle as you feel each muscle contracts, the impending sore waiting for you has arrived. Sunghoon didn't notice and you didn't want him to; following your suit as you fix yourselves. He hands you back your panties and you find it in you to still feel embarrassed.

“don’t forget your basket,” he reminds you softly, looking at the ground behind your shoulders. You turn to find your cute basket filled with about a dozen of smaller shiny pastel Easter eggs.

Did he just search the forest to fill it up while you were asleep?

The gesture touched your heart since you'd be able to surely claim your compensation later. You look Sunghoon gratefully who's waiting for you at a distance until you're ready to go. However, just as you were about to leave after picking up your filled basket, you notice all the props around you.

“shouldn’t we clean up here? we probably missed the end already” you suggest to Sunghoon, looking around at how much work you both need to do before it gets fully dark. The nap you took felt like a waste of time but Sunghoon's good pounding made the Easter egg hunt fully slipped your mind.

None of you expected to stay here this long so you only have your phone as a source of light. There will be lampposts when you return to the path but it's going to be very dark here soon. You suspect Sunghoon didn’t have bring flashlight while decorating this area since the event's bound to end before late afternoon.

“no need, we can just leave it as it is. at least that’s what I've been told” he shrugs, taking your unoccupied hand with his. As an over thinker, you're not fully convinced with Sunghoon's reason. For all you know, you both would get fined or get a penalty for not following proper protocol.

Not just following the rules but also for public indecency when you both had sex during the duration of the event.

Despite your doubt, you let it go, grasping Sunghoon's hand between your fingers. Together you walk back towards the line of trees, hands intertwining until you reach the main clearing where the main table was. No one’s left so you’re probably just gonna drop by the student centre to let them know or just email them a picture of your Easter basket that Sunghoon meticulously arranged.

There's a rush of excitement in you at the notion that one of their volunteers basically let you cheat off of the event. No one caught you and Sunghoon so they'd have nothing to prove until then. Besides, it takes them ages to actually send any prize anyways so funding would not be any different and possibly will have a longer process before approval.

“do you wanna grab a bite? we can discuss what to wear for the event then” you tug Sunghoon towards the banquet hall and he nods. You actually wanted to at least buy something there if he refused.

None of you talked as you saunter to the building where the hall is and you've actually appreciate the quietness. Being with Sunghoon who's not a talkative type of a person would've been relaxing if not for all the staring that you both get as you walk along the hallways.

“you’re quiet. are you tired? we can just head back” he asks worriedly after noticing you tightening your hold in his hand.

“nothing, it’s just..it’s stupid. ugh this is probably so normal for you” you ramble, avoiding his gauging gaze.

“it’s not if it’s bothering you” he insists and his words warm your chest.

“they can’t stop looking at you” you admit shyly, looking at Sunghoon briefly and a small grin replaces the worry in his face.

Great, you’re probably feeding his ego even more by admitting it.

“not just me” he replies, continuing his steps like he doesn’t notice the eyes that are boring at you both. What reason could they have to be staring at you? Sunghoon might be used to staring, but not you.

You've been feeling conscious as soon as it happened and it remained even as you order your supposed dinner. You told Sunghoon to find a table but he insists on staying with you. After you both got your trays your food, you beeline towards the rows of tables and fortunately found one near the windows, your preferred position here to see the view outside.

It's mostly lights but the stars are visible on the sky tonight.

“do you have an idea for the colours? if not, we can just go by the typical spring ones” you start so you’ll divert your attention to the important matter at hand instead of the lingering gazes around you.

None of the people here would think that you and Sunghoon just met in less than a few hours ago with the way you're both acting with one another. He holds your hand after unloading the food from the trays, flustering you to no end. You look like a couple to anyone's eyes with how affectionate he is. The comfort he gives you definitely helped ease the awkwardness you mostly have with strangers.

You could get used to this.

“I'll match whatever you pick”

In the end, you decide to go for a mix of pastel pink and some green while Sunghoon will match your dress with a black suit and a pastel green tie.

A true gentleman that he is, Sunghoon walked you to your dorms after. It’s already late at night when you both finished dinner — discussing the Easter egg hunt down to the origins of the holiday. You've told him what you learned growing up from a religious family and he in turn, told you the other versions of it.

The path towards the house that you share with four other girls is surrounded by trees. It’s relatively safe though since it's your university's student housing. Still, Sunghoon insisted on walking you for extra safety.

Right when you're nearing the door of your dorm, Sunghoon brings your hand that he’s holding up to kiss your knuckles. You're again taken aback, your heart racing since you weren't expecting this because you've hooked up already.

He really is different than other guys.

“you’re endearing,” you say before switching the Easter basket you're holding to your other hand. Staring into Sunghoon's eyes, you grab his neck to kiss him.

Sunghoon was surprised at first but immediately returned your kisses, placing his hand on your back to pull you closer. At this point, you feel like kissing one another is going to become a habit the way how natural it is for you both. You break the kiss to catch your breaths but also because you almost lost your balance (again) while kissing him.

"careful" he holds you steady, eyeing the Easter eggs inside the basket in your hand. You chuckle at his mild concern, finding him even more endearing with how attentive he is to them. Of course, you'd take care of it like a gift. Sunghoon made an effort to gather those for you even when he didn't have to, risking his volunteer position just to help you.

"thank you.." you drawl after letting out a small chuckle when his gaze returns to you. Eyes still lost in his, you're debating if you should say more but Sunghoon smiles, seeming to understand what you meant.

“I'll see you until then” he smiles fondly as he releases you. You can tell by his hesitant eyes that he doesn't wanna let go. You begin to miss his touches already as soon as he did, turning around with grace as he leaves the porch.

“wait, we didn’t exchange numbers!” you call for him and realization hits Sunghoon as soon as he heard you. He starts patting his pockets and his face morphs into panic when he can't feel his phone. He looks up at you with a defeated expression but you shake your head with a reassuring smile.

“oh, i must’ve left it somewhere. we were rushing earlier” he concludes calmly, trying to look composed but the embarrassment is apparent on his face even in the dark — his light complexion shows clearly how he abandoned his belongings because he was too focused on you.

"it's okay hoon, meet me here maybe about an hour and a half before it starts" you say excitedly, already thinking of the event which is going to be in three days.

It'll take you longer to get ready and you don't want to be late. The venue's outside your campus and although not far, you would like to be early to enjoy the candy bars and photo booth before everyone arrives.

And of course, more time with Sunghoon without much prying eyes. For sure, you'd have a deja vu and might bother you for the rest of the night.

"alright then, have a good night __" he shows that soft smile again and you respond with a quick "night, hoon".

Sunghoon turns, heading towards the main road while you wait until he's out of sight. Your mind's still processing the unexpected events of the day and the Easter season definitely surprised you. You couldn't believe you're out here sending off a man who you just met and hooked up like some girlfriend.

“girl who the fuck was that hottie?”

A loud voice belonging to one of your housemate, Aeri, booms behind you, breaking your thoughts.

You whirled around, clearly surprised and wondering if she's been behind the door the whole time.

“and why was he kissing you?” another voice, belonging to Karina follows as you and Aeri entered back into the house.

Yup, Aeri did sneak. Both her and Karina did through the window curtains.

“You got a man and never told us?!” Minjeong chimes in from the kitchen as soon as you all enter settle at the living room.

“not my man, just my date for the spring formal" you respond sheepishly, still overwhelmed at Sunghoon's parting gift and their rapid questions.

"I've never seen him before. where did you even meet him?" Yizhuo, who's coming down from upstairs, adds and the rest zero in on you for an answer.

"at the hunt" you quip, feeling defensive at this surprised interrogation. You know their questions are harmless, purely out of concern but you honestly haven't felt this way for so long.

For someone on that matter.

"damn, why have i not ever joined?" Aeri asks dramatically, shaking your shoulder which made you laugh. "I'm missing this whole time? next year it is" she says with determination before any of you could answer her.

"just today? or did you know him before?"

The laughter between you and Aeri ceases once Karina followed another question. She's looking at you suspiciously and Aeri looks unsure on what to do next. Yizhuo's still torn whether to but in or not.

Out of all, Karina's the only one who can actually confront you but you're too happy to deal with their prodding questions right now.

"we shared a class last year" you lie through your teeth. They didn't seem convinced with your clipped answer, eventually letting it go once Minjeong called them for dinner.

You followed to greet Minjeong and excused yourself to your bedroom, telling them that you had dinner with Sunghoon already before coming home. As you leave, you didn't miss the way Karina's eyes lingering you on your figure or Yizhuo's subtle indifference at your little story.

Only Aeri seems to be unbothered, her focus solely on the food Minjeong prepared.

Before going to bed, you checked your socials to try finding Sunghoon. Since you didn't get to have his number, its the only way you'd be able to communicate for the spring formal. It's not that you didn't trust that he's not going to show up; you just like being ready in case of emergencies. It's the most basic form of communication especially that you're bringing a date — meaning you'd have more things to prepare for.

You contemplated asking your housemates, maybe just Aeri or Minjeong but you don't want to hear any type of scolding if ever. None of them outright showed it compared to the other two but you can feel the slight judgment when you told them about Sunghoon.

You're aware that it might be too soon to invite him as a date when you just met. But on the other hand, some people literally hook up once and maintained some sort of connection whether that'd be friendship or something more. You and Sunghoon are still strangers to one another, yes, but that’s the reason why you invited him to the spring formal.

To get to know him better. And for your friends to meet him.

You never cared before, not really. Never cared what your friends would think about them. Barely any guy gets your interest enough for you to meet them again after the first time. Whether it's a simple chat or sharing a night together, no one was able to maintain your hold on them.

Sunghoon however, was different. Yes, you were instantly attracted the moment you saw but you're more intrigued with how peculiar his ways are compared to other boys. Sure you've met boys on the quieter side, there are ones that almost are like him too with how they treat you. However, it's Sunghoon's tenderness that sets him apart from the rest.

It’s definitely a part of his charms that he may be using on you this whole time.

And you’re falling too easily on them.

You don't mind though. This chance is too rare for you to pass. For once you're finally considering dating if things go well with Sunghoon during the event.

After a while, you gave up searching for his socials. You've forgotten to ask for his last name at least. It would've been easier to look for his accounts. You've looked through people's mutual friends as well, trying out every combination with his first name but to no avail.

It doesn’t matter. You have a date to prepare for and you’ve got three days until then. Sunghoon will show up. He never showed you any indication that he wouldn't. He was even hesitant when he left.

You're going to hold on to that until then.

Looking for a dress went better than you expected. Haunting dresses in boutiques on your own felt a little adventurous. You only have this option really because you wouldn’t get it on time if you purchase online. Thankfully, you found one that matches the theme and is up to your taste. It’s a floor length halter dress with a pleated corset in baby pink colour, with flowers and light green leaves as a pattern.

You hope Sunghoon would like it. Make no mistake, you picked this for yourself but unlike past events, you have a date this time that you wanted to impress. You'd have to make an effort to keep up with Sunghoon's beauty although it wouldn't be a big deal to him. He crossed your mind several times while searching for dresses, wishing he was with you during the process.

You can't wait to see him again.

The remaining days until the event consisted of you going home and your dorms back-and-forth. Your housemates are staying around even if their exams are over to wait for the spring formal. The awkward tension that surrounded you all vanished the next day. Part of it was that you haven't mentioned Sunghoon ever since and they've been cautious too.

You've done shopping and getting pampered with them which was always fun, something you'll miss once summer starts. None of them every stay, going on summer vacations every year which leaves you the caretaker of the house from time to time since you stay in the country during those months.

Your parents found out of the Spring event at the last minute and your Mom panicked. You reassured her by catching her up everything, completely skipping the part that you almost didn’t get any tickets for you and Sunghoon. Thankfully, you knew someone that could help. Jungwon, one of your former mentee, is currently part of the campus council and was able to score you late bird tickets with a discount.

The day of the spring formal finally arrives and you’re more nervous than you anticipated. You've stayed with your housemates the night before just to prepare, waking up the earliest among them which surprises the girls since you’re usually the latest.

“calm down girl, you look great!”

Aeri cheers you on as she finishes her makeup touch ups by the hallway mirror. You smiled at her gratefully, the other girls parroting the same thing.

It's not about how you look that you were worried about. You do think you look great today. A stupid reason but negative thoughts have been popping up your mind as soon as you wake up. Prepping distracted you but they've returned as soon as you're done. Since you had no way of contacting Sunghoon, a little part of your brain thinks that he might be late or worse, not show up.

“You have nothing to worry about. I used to overthink a lot before but Jaewook came through”

Despite Karina's indifference of Sunghoon as your date, she kept reassuring you, noticing how anxious you've been since this morning.

“Yeah, Heeseung and Jay will most likely be the latest to pick us up” Minjeong chimes in as she ties the strap of her heels around her ankles. “Might not be! Jay’s actually punctual when needed,” Yizhuo smiles cheerfully as she defends her date. She's sitting beside Minjeong who's scrolling on her phone, typing furiously to her date, you're guessing.

“thank you girlies” you looked at each of them with another wave of appreciation.

They’re right. You should only focus on positive things today to avoid any misfortune on your way. Small talks resumed between you and your housemates, about the dresses and everyone's predictions of which clubs will earn awards for tonight's spring formal event.

Then a doorbell ring disrupts your conversation.

"oooo i think it's him!" Minjeong throws her phone on the couch and excitedly parts the curtains to see who it was on the porch.

She's right. Opening the door revealed Sunghoon, the first to arrive out of all your dates. He's dressed in a black tuxedo with matching pink polo shirt underneath and peering from his breast pocket is a light green pocket square handkerchief.

He looks nervous but it all vanishes as soon as he sees you.

“you look breathtaking” he says first, eyes locked on your first then they down to the dress you're wearing.

"so do you.."

You're awestruck at how gorgeous Sunghoon is today. His natural beauty had you smitten when you first saw him but he's extra hot with the straightened, slicked back hair. Gone were the perms that made him look adorable and your thrilled to meet this side of him.

"greetings to you ladies" he says softly, sweeping his eyes at your housemates before bowing with such grace.

The girls of course are stunned, just like how you were when you first met Sunghoon. Yizhuo hits Aeri's arms with a giggle, who's smiling so brightly at your date while Karina gives you teasing eyes and Minjeong wiggles her eyebrows at you both.

Certainly the opposite reaction than before. Maybe it's because they've finally heard his voice and see him up close.

"we'll go ahead guys, see you at the venue!" you circle your arm around Sunghoon's as you both head outside. The girls wave their goodbyes from the couch, just lounging while waiting for their dates to pick them up. It's still early but Sunghoon actually arrived at the time that you both agreed on.

Another plus point.

Sunghoon assists you as you both walk down the cemented path of the neighbourhood. The long walk is a bit of a hassle due to your heels plus the long trail of your dress but it's manageable. When you both reach the parking lot, that's when you see a white luxury car waiting by the spot nearest to the parking gate.

The sight of the car made you pause on your steps, trying hard to hide your surprise. Judging on Sunghoon's elegant manners and the way he dresses himself, you've had a hunch that he could be rich the first time you met him. However, seeing this luxurious car and the driver in uniform inside, you didn't think he'd be this rich. That must've been why you couldn't find him on online. He probably doesn't have any social media. People from wealthy families often not want to be on the public eye for many reasons.

The driver comes out and greets you both then opening the car door. He gestures you to hop in but Sunghoon stops you.

"Hold on, I have something for you."

He unclasps your arm around his left elbow then takes your hand to put on a flower corsage on your wrist. It matches the pocket square that he has, light green petals with small pearls adorning the wire.

"hoon, this is so pretty" you muse, turning your wrist around after he's done. You quickly retrieve your phone from your evening bag, putting your palm against Sunghoon's chest to take a picture.

"i made it," he confessed and your eyes widened. "really? what can't you do huh?" you tease and he only smiles, guiding you to enter the car and following after. Openly flirting with Sunghoon may look pointless but his shy smiles and blushed cheeks are enough for you even if he doesn't flirt back directly.

The ride was pretty quick. Sunghoon held your hand the whole time while many thoughts cross your mind. One of them with you wondering if Sunghoon owns this car or just rented it. Based on his conversations with the driver, he might be Sunghoon's personal one but you didn't ask. Not that it mattered since it's just a random thought. He's here to drop you and Sunghoon off, nothing more.

Your date got off first before opening his hand for you to take. You turn to the driver to thank him and he only responded with a curt smile as you get off the car.

Not many students have arrived at the venue yet so you're relieved to be the first ones.

Watching them however, makes your stomach churn. Something roots you to where you're standing.

"let's go inside?"

Sunghoon asks you softly but you don't look at him. You had a feeling that he wanted to ask you more but he doesn't press on it and just waits for you to tell him.

"I'm a bit nervous, hoon. i haven't gone to this in a while" you shyly admit, a bit frustrated that you let it takeover your excitement for today. Sunghoon holds your hand immediately, willing you to look at him. "I'll never leave your side", he reassures you again with his words and if it weren't for your makeup, you're sure he would've caressed your cheeks too.

True to his word, Sunghoon stayed by your side the entire time. He snakes an arm around your waist as you enter the venue and you've calmed down. His presence have always been comforting, much more when he touches you. Everyone sneaks a glance at you both, some subtle, some outright. It made you smile, feeling a bit secured that you've managed to get him as your date.

When you reach the reception table, Sunghoon excuses himself to the washroom. You've reminded him where your seating table was before he leaves and he nodded. Turning to the table, you've noticed the attendants looking at Sunghoon but shifted their eyes to you with an awkward smile.

"Sorry but he's not on the system," the girl tells you, clicking away the mouse to find Sunghoon's name after you told her.

That's odd. You've managed to ask him his last name earlier so you can tag him on your posts later.

"It's Park Sunghoon. I'm sure it's there, please check again" you hurriedly tell her after spotting Sunghoon emerging from the corner. He walks to your designated table, patiently sitting down to wait for you.

The lines are getting longer as the students flock the reception table for the attendants to check their tickets and register.

“is everything alright?” he asks worriedly, pulling the chair beside him for you to sit down. But you didn't because you're in a rush.

“did you bring your ID perchance? i didn’t but they couldn’t find your name” you ask, truly wondering how they can find yours and not his. Since he was one of the staff at the Easter egg hunt, he's probably more involved than you so there's no way he’s not in the system.

“no, didn’t think we’d have to” he answers without much thought. “should we head back there? i should’ve stayed with you then” he adds, sounding regretful.

Both you and Sunghoon did and like other students who’ve stolen glances at your date, the girl behind the table was no different.

She’s awestruck at seeing him up close, like how you were when you first saw Sunghoon in the forest. You felt a little conscious because she was only looking at him without giving you any regard so you had no choice but to put your hand on Sunghoon’s chest.

This caught the girls attention who then smiled brightly at you; courtesy or embarrassment that you caught her ogling your date. With the way she’s looking at him, you wonder if she even remembered you from earlier.

Sunghoon’s surprised at your hand on his chest, turning to you with the little corner of his lip curling upwards.

"family name is Park, kindly check again" he says while looking only at you. His soft voice accompanying his politeness was enough for the girl to just nod, her smile widening but it somehow irritates you a bit.

"you can just register him as a guest right? we wouldn't want to be an inconvenience" you say, looking back at the line of people waiting to check in with tickets in their hands.

"don't worry, he's all good! i hope you enjoy the event!" she exclaims, more joyous than ever, her eyes only lingering on Sunghoon. You've circled your arm again with his, dragging him back inside the hall.

You didn't miss Sunghoon trying to stifle his laugh but he never bothered confronting you which you truly appreciate. Whatever he found funny during the entire interaction is none of your business. The problem was settled so you should just enjoy the night and this lovely time with Sunghoon.

It might be the last time you'll see him.

Even though you both seem to be comfortable with each other, you technically only met and talked twice. You don’t know much about each other yet and you’ve been planning to change that tonight.

Instead of returning to your table, you pulled Sunghoon towards the photo booth area. You’re the type that treasures memories a lot, therefore, pictures are important. Sunghoon has not said a word since you both arrived at the booth but he follows your whims with all the poses that the photographer recommended.

“perfect! you looked good together!” the photographer cheers on and Sunghoon’s hold on your waist tightens. Your heart beats fast as well, the idea of you and Sunghoon being a couple warms your chest.

You just met for goodness sake, why are you already thinking in advance?

Sunghoon surprises you when he kisses your cheek, the same time as the countdown ended for another picture.

“thank you, very much for this” Sunghoon says in a very sincere way as he stares at the pictures on the screen. You’re busy picking which poses to fit in the frame but you noticed that the photographer sounded touched. “please, it’s just part of my job but thank you”

Usually, it takes so long for you to pick which poses to include but Sunghoon looks great in every picture. Finalizing the photos turned quick, all credits to your date but you look like you could keep up with him too.

“here are the copies, one strip for you and your boyfriend”

Your cheeks warmed at the photographer's insinuation. You're about to object but Sunghoon hasn't said anything, only taking hos copy from the machine. You follow his suit, smiling gratefully at the photographer as you take your copy.

“thank you again”

You take Sunghoon’s hand in yours as you leave the photo booth area. He intertwines your fingers, caressing your hand with his thumb finger.

“do you want to walk around? we have couple of minutes before it starts” you beam against him, smiling so wide, the remarks of the photographer still lingering in your mind.

“you’re feet are okay, right?” he asks, looking down at your ankles. The only way he could see your heels was through the slit of your dress mid thigh, something Sunghoon appreciated with the way he’s gaze lingered at your exposed skin.

“please hoonie, I'm used to walking in them” you tease, parting your dress further so he can see more of your thigh. Sunghoon was fighting to not break his composure, struggling to stop his attempt at biting his lip as he stared at it and then you.

The other pairs of students that were assigned to the same table as you have also arrived and you all introduce yourselves with one another. Sunghoon might be a shy person but he was pretty engaged with anyone who talked to him. It probably helped that his hand was holding your bare thigh as comfort.

You can feel how cold his palm was at first, trembling a little until you put your hand over his.

"thank you, love" he leans in to whisper in your ear, kneading the meat of your thigh.

"of course hoon," you smiled at him, wanting to kiss him right then and there if it weren't for the other students at your table. You wouldn't want to make them uncomfortable with your public display of affection.

There will be plenty of those later.

You noticed someone waving at you over Sunghoon’s shoulders, Yizhuo with her date who must be Jay.

Sunghoon turns to the pair, looking at them longer than you expected. You then realized that it's the Jay you shared shared in a class last semester. He meets your eye and smiles politely, then he shifts his gaze on the man beside you.

His inquisitive eyes are squinting as the smile on his handsome face drops.

Classic Park Jongseong.

Park. His last name from what you remember last semester.

He shares the last name with Sunghoon then. It’s a common last name so there’s a possibility that they’re not related or wouldn’t know each other.

Maybe there won’t be any harm to ask if he knows of Sunghoon. If not, then your date could use a new friend. You haven’t seen Sunghoon with any of his friends. The topic never came up in your conversations but you realize that he hasn't greeted anyone since arriving here.

Before you can get up and pull Sunghoon with you to approach another table where the rest of your housemates are, someone calls your name from behind.

“do you wanna dance? if that's okay with your date of course”

Sunoo's a good friend of yours who you've shared many courses with before due to you both being in the same program. He's always been lovely and is down to your spontaneous study dates. Asking you to dance so you two would be the first ones on the dance floor is just one of his whims.

“you asked me, remember? so he’ll be fine with it” you turned to Sunghoon who’s staring at Sunoo with guarded eyes. He shifts his eyes at you and gives a hesitant smile. His reaction confused you. He couldn’t still be shy right?

Unless…

Sunoo opened his hand for you to take, giving Sunghoon a strange look like he’s studying him subtly. As soon as you got up and walked towards the centre of the dance floor, you couldn’t help but voice out the question that’s been bothering you.

"noo, why were you looking at my date like that?" you ask, truly confused with their interaction. You were still thinking of the small interaction between Sunghoon and Jay earlier. Now you'd have to add this one too.

"i was just trying to see if I've seen him somewhere," he answered, stealing a glance at Sunghoon on the table.

“don’t you know each other? he also volunteered for the Easter egg hunt” you press on, your browse crunching in deep confusion. Your brain’s trying to wrack up everything you remember on the day of the hunt.

“no, did he participate? he’s not one of the volunteers for sure. i would’ve remembered his face during the workshop”

Sunoo’s answer made your body freeze. Your heart's starting to beat faster, your fitted dress starting to feel suffocating — the plated parts caging your abdomen. Your breathing's changing, the nerves are catching up on you.

“smile, he’s watching. everyone is since we're obviously the best” you didn’t realize that you were gripping Sunoo’s shoulders for the past few seconds. You're obviously nervous and tried to play it cool so he won’t suspect any but he's giving you a knowing look.

That's what Sunoo is the best at — reading people. He's one of the smartest in your year for a reason.

You then realize the face that you must've been making, revealing what you truly think of your date in front of your friend. You close your eyes to calm yourself a little, taking a deep breathe before asking Sunoo the questions that have been in the back of your mind since the hunt.

"the eggs..are they shiny? glass like and in pastel colours?" you start, hoping for Sunoo to nod but he only raises a brow at you.

"we literally bought the typical Easter eggs from the dollar store, you know, the bright and patterned ones" he answers, the sassiness in his tone apparent now with how your questions have sounded ridiculous in his ears.

The eggs you had didn't look like any of those that Sunoo described.

"what's wrong? did you even manage to get any eggs? i saw you before you left to the forest and you didn't look interested at the event at all"

You'd wish Sunoo would stop talking. He's exposing you like this when Sunghoon or even anyone could be listening. The music's not so loud and you're both far from everyone but you didn't want to risk anything. Not until you can confirm what you just found out.

All these have started to overwhelm you and you're glad Sunoo's here to keep you grounded. You know he's been suspicious this entire time, just masking all of it unlike you who couldn't even handle any of this information.

This is not how you want this night to go.

"i got some eggs. s-special ones actually" you mutter, your voice shaky and Sunoo's eyes twitch a bit as soon as he hears it. You knew he's been trying to act normal as much as he can but hearing your voice is the last straw. The music's almost ending but you don't feel like going back to your table yet.

You want to stay here for a couple of minutes to calm down and gather your thoughts before facing Sunghoon again.

"everyone, please take a seat. the opening ceremony's about to begin"

Sunoo's eyes meet your nervous ones and reluctantly releases you as you near your table. His bright smile never changed but his grip on you tightened, almost like he doesn't want to let you go. You had no choice but to go back now because of the announcement. However, you spotted the washroom sign by the corner and you found your escape.

You immediately grab your evening bag as soon as you're out of his grasp.

Sunoo's words didn't fully sink in until you hear Sunghoon calling your name.

"are you okay? did something happen?" Sunghoon's concerned voice momentarily stops you and you force yourself to act normal. He eyes Sunoo behind you and that's when you put your hand on his chest to get his attention back on you.

"everything's fine, hoon! I'll be right back" your voice came out chirpier than you intended so he can tell you're in distress despite the smile you were trying to put up.

"let me come with you"

"no need, I'm okay i swear" you insist but Sunghoon's not convinced.

"i have to make sure you're okay," he says, voice full of worry while the confusion is obvious in his pretty face. You almost felt bad for suddenly treating him like this. Despite what's going on, he's still prioritizing your comfort.

It could be his last effort, you think.

Sunghoon was already suspicious of Sunoo earlier and you were failing to be inconspicuous. Plus, you don't want to get the attention of the other couples at your table.

One of them's already looking warily at you and Sunghoon. You smiled at them for reassurance, thankfully they reciprocated and returned their attention to their partner. You turned to Sunghoon and nodded, leaving your table hastily so you both could return quickly.

It'll be time to eat after and they'll call the table numbers one by one. Your table is in the middle of the order so you still have time. Nevertheless, you just want to be surrounded with other people as soon as possible.

You rush to the mirror as soon as you reach the washroom while Sunghoon closes the door. Closing your eyes, you force yourself to focus and fix your composure.

Fear looms you as soon as you feel Sunghoon focusing on you.

"you look troubled while dancing with sunoo" he starts as he nears you. The mention of your friend's name almost choked you on your breath, bringing back your conversation earlier where you've heard his answers the first time.

"it's not him. it's just.. one of those times" you try to explain but your heart's been hammering since being alone here with Sunghoon. You had a hunch that he already knows what's up based on your behaviour earlier.

You'll try to act normal at least.

"is there anything i can do to make you feel better?" he asks, voice becoming gentle again as he scans your face. You meet his eyes for the first time since hearing all the answers from Sunoo and you're beyond conflicted. Sunghoon genuinely looks worried at your sudden change of behaviour but you couldn't confirm if he figured you out already.

Maybe you still can keep this up.

"you being here is enough hoonie" the nickname encourages Sunghoon to come near you, taking a hold of your elbows to pull you towards him. You stare into his eyes once more, hoping that he'll see the need in your gaze.

Sunghoon steps closer and your eyes shifts down to his shiny lips, the ones that lured you into him the first time you met. He starts leaning when you don't move away, his lips nearing yours but never pushed further.

"let me make you feel better" he whispers against your lips, hands slowly rubbing your elbows. You can feel Sunghoon's desperation to touch you further but you haven’t given him any permission yet so he didn't.

Still polite.

Relief courses through you at the thought. At least, that never seems to change. You could use this as an opportunity, giving him a false sense of security now then he might be vulnerable enough later for you to confront him with the truth.

Smiling as you nod, you wrap your arms around Sunghoon's shoulders. He took this as a sign to hug you fully, rubbing your back for comfort. While doing so, he slowly backs you up until your ass hits the edge of the sink, releasing him from your arms.

Sunghoon's hand comes up to grab the side of your neck, pulling your face closer to his. You're expecting a kiss so you close your eyes, only for him to pull back. Instead, you feel his other hand lifts the hemline of your slit, his fingers brushing against your exposed skin.

“hoon not here…” short gasps escape you at his bold move. Granted the first time he had you was out in the open but this is different. The risk of getting caught is higher with many people nearby.

“not yet love, but don't worry, i will be quick” he reassures you, turning your body around to face the mirror. You didn't protest as Sunghoon meets your eyes through the reflection, looking thrilled to make you feel better.

His hand returns, slipping inside your dress to palm your thigh in one go. Locating your bud right away, he briefly touches it before the tips of his fingers trace along your clothed opening. Sunghoon's studying your face for any other reaction aside from the arousal emerging on your features.

Your body's squirming by being flushed against his and you berate yourself. You're soaked even before Sunghoon starts touching you. He just had that effect on your body that it almost made you forget everything you learned since arriving here at the venue.

Sunghoon sticks to his words, sliding your undies to the side and slipping his fingers in as soon as he deemed that you're wet enough. His pace is slow at first, allowing your walls to get used it but he gradually increases his speed.

"tight..because you're tense. let's loosen it up a bit, yeah?" he notes fondly, his breath fanning along the shell of your ear. He curves his fingers, reaching deeper in your caverns. You've been trying to roll your hips slowly to meet his thrusts but Sunghoon's holding your waist firmly, wanting you to just take what he's giving you at the moment.

His actual plan, that's why he followed you here.

Your moans are increasing in volume but Sunghoon's not covering your mouth to stifle it like you thought he would. Maybe he does want other people to catch him fingering you here. It's clear that he has a thing on it and you've grown to have it as well.

"hoon..there..there..fuck" your hands grabbed his neck for support and Sunghoon groans now that your ass rubbing against his crotch. He tried to put a distance between your bodies since his goal is to only make you cum but you don't care about anything other than his fingers inside your cunt right now.

You managed to switch your moans into quiet whimpers but Sunghoon's fingertips brushed your spongy spot and you're back to zero. Sunghoon notices though since he's been muffling his own sounds by mouthing your neck. His grip on your waist tightens the same way your cunt's clenching erratically around his digits.

You're so wet that apart from the minimal voices you and Sunghoon try to maintain, the squelching noises from your pussy echoes throughout the washroom walls. Someone could knock at any minute and you're praying that Sunghoon at least locked the doors.

"come on, love, let go for me"

Sunghoon's words strike multiples inside you. Both for letting go of your moans and your wary inhibitions of him. Not long after, your breathing starts getting heavier, throat dry from swallowing your moans. Few pumps of his fingers and you're unraveling in front of his eyes.

You tried to keep your eyes open but the rough pads of Sunghoon's fingers have paid special attention to your pulsing bud. Your eyes ended up rolling at the back of your head, your lips swollen now with the times you bit it to keep yourself from screaming his name out loud.

"can't..anymore.." you whimper, feeling like collapsing in his arms. You took a glimpse at Sunghoon and he's watching you with awe, still sliding his fingers in and out slowly as you ride out your high. Your knees buckle at its intensity and if it weren't for Sunghoon cradling your body, you would've fallen forward.

He removes his fingers slowly when he feels your body twitching a little. You watch all his actions through the mirror, a whine eager to come out of you as soon as he slips his coated fingers into his mouth to taste your juices.

"sweet, like i know you will" he smiles after and releases you, helping you sit on the marbled surface beside the sink.

Sunghoon proceeds to wash his hands, retrieving some tissues after to clean you up. Your body's still shaking from the intense orgasm he just gave you, breathing heavily as you lazily spread your legs. Sunghoon parts your dress, staring at your ruined panties for a bit before his eyes zeroes in on your core.

His tall frame bends and meticulously wipes your core and legs, making sure that your dress didn't get any stains. His hands are shaking a little and you can see his inner struggle to not reinsert his fingers and fuck you here.

Sunghoon's sweet and that remained constant since the first time you met. Too sweet in other people's eyes if they find out that you haven't known each other long enough.

"i haven't been honest to you" he starts as soon as he finishes cleaning you up.

"about what hoon?" you're relaxed now like Sunghoon intended you to be. You're more collected thanks to him but your apprehension from earlier is still around. Ironic really when he's the reason why you were in shambles in the first place.

You wait for Sunghoon as he stands straight. He looks nervous and couldn't meet your gaze.

"I'm not what you think i am"

His admission surprises you. Out of guilt or probably, you were too obvious this whole time so he had no choice.

"what do you mean hoon? obviously you're not or i wouldn't be in this event with you"

Your tone was neutral but your after remarks could send a different message. This is the most nonchalant you've ever acted and you're just hoping to be convincing. Beckoning Sunghoon closer, he followed without breaking eye contact.

Damn those beautiful dark brown eyes.

"I'm different. not your kind" he continues, studying your face to figure out what you're thinking.

Sunghoon's confirmation should've shaken you up but it never did. Because you had no reason to fear him. He's never shown any indications that other people would consider otherwise, an abnormal behaviour. He's just odd, with even weirder habits. When he told you that he's different, you only thought it was just part of his quirkiness. You know, closeted rich boys with weird kinks so you played along even when you didn't really believe him.

"i don't understand"

"allow me to explain?" he offers, the hint of panic in his tone.

You got off the sink with his help to fix yourself. You're both facing the vanity mirror again, with Sunghoon returning to hold your waist tightly. You've noticed how his eyes seem a little different and the smile he's wearing, it's not in a threatening way but his sharp incisors spiked your heart a bit.

“you wouldn’t hurt me right?” you ask cautiously, gauging his reaction to your question. He didn't even get to start with his explanation yet but you need to know. There's no point going in circles. Whatever is happening, you need to hear those words just in case.

“hurt you? i would never dare to, darling” he sounds slightly offended at your assumption.

Sunghoon pulls you closer to him again, your body naturally melted in his arms right away. The notion terrified you a bit even if he reassured you already. It's basically a promise and he's never broken any of them so far.

"o-okay" you hate that you stuttered because Sunghoon might interpret it differently. Your heartbeats begin picking up, your throat closing up due to the wave of anxiousness suddenly hitting you.

You need to leave.

However, Sunghoon wraps his one arm around your waist, hugging your body flushed to his. He presses a kiss on your bare shoulder then noses your neck, inhaling your scent until he reaches the top of your jawline.

You're not sure if he can sense your nerves but you succumb to his touches. Not that it's difficult. You'd have to until you can send a text to Sunoo. Your hand itches to grab your phone from your evening bag, eyeing it desperately. However, Sunghoon rubs your stomach gently, distracting you from your plan. Draping your arm above his, you close your palm around his hand.

You're unsure of what Sunghoon is planning. Despite his comforting touches, your heart palpitates once again. He nudges your jaw to pay attention to him again so you meet his eyes through the mirror.

And they're gleaming with something darker than you anticipated.

“you said you’re already mine and i intend to keep it that way”

e/n: i haven't written this long since 2021 and it's also the first time that i wrote for a singular POV with this fic length but i hope it's okay! it’s still spring and easter's technically not over until pentecost in june so…

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hwnglx · 7 months ago

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pick a pile - you in your own eyes vs. you in your fs' eyes

welcome lovely reader! let's take a peak into how you view yourself, compared to how your future lover will view you. breathe slowly, take your time and use your intuition to go with the pile that speaks to you the most. remember to take what resonates, and leave what doesn't. 𓆩♡𓆪

°❀⋆.pile 1ೃ࿔*:･

you in your own eyes

you see yourself as someone who isn't very easily impressed or satisfied. you might struggle with chronic pessimism and seeing the brighter side of things sometimes and seem aware of it. you are manifesting a better life for yourself.

you might lack substantial belief and trust in yourself to do well, and see yourself as someone who's more of capable of hoping and wishful thinking, rather than courageously taking the initiative and acting on your desires.

you believe you don't have the needed tools to follow your dreams just yet (financially, mentally or in terms of maturity) you also might be afraid of change; this could result in a habit of just staying in your comfort zone in the end.

you might see yourself as someone who's still too immature and inexperienced. not sure why this came through, but some of you might even think that you just aren't overly smart. (spirit is telling me you're wrong!) you might feel like a late bloomer who's been a little stagnant in their life or slower in your growth compared to others. a lot of comparing yourself to other people here.

i heard “dreamer with a heavy heart” from the song cruel world by faye. perhaps you could connect to that song; it talks about feeling like the world just challenges you continuously, but the dreamer inside of you remaining alive despite the hurt.

you might think that you're quite alone in this world. someone who's just used to being on your own, doing things on your own. you see yourself as a person who tries lighting their own path instead of relying on anyone else.

you see yourself as someone who's constantly wishing to learn from the things that life throws at you, and turning every life lesson into something that helps you grow.

you might experience fomo sometimes; fear of missing out.

it does seem as if you're still trying your best to hold on to this glimmer of hope within you.. you're aware that you're someone who could make it happen, if only they took a leap of faith.

you're very humble, dedicated and eager to learn at heart, so deep down you acknowledge that the potential and desire is there. you just aren't sure how to translate it into reality.

i think you're in the midst of slowly healing from negative experiences, which have had a profound impact on you. you're trying to practice self-forgiveness and letting go of the past, but still might struggle with self-doubts and insecurities.

you in your fs' eyes

your fs will see you as someone resilient with a strong personality, who's had to endure a lot of challenges and conquer many obstacles in their life. this gave you thick skin.

they might look at you as a person who wasn't as easy to get to, because you do have your walls up at first, and people need to prove themselves to you before they can get past them. they look at you as someone who's protective of their own space, and doesn't allow people to access them as easily.

their first impression might consist of seeing you in snappy defensive mode, where you had to stand up for yourself.

they'll think that you're someone independent who challenges the status quo; focused on first and foremost, going after what you set yourself up to, unafraid to stand out and be different. a person who's more interested in following their own rules, instead of joining the crowd or blending in.

your fs looks at you as a person who's determined to build their own financial stability and independence before relying on anyone else to do it.

which is interesting, because i do think this person could be relatively well off and wanting to provide you, but you don't seem very interested in basking in anyone else's money.

they could see you as marriage material quite quickly and think about building a future together, but soon after might realize you're not someone eager to jump into a commitment as such, if you don't feel secure in yourself first.

this has the potential to humble them quite a bit, and awaken the realization that you're someone more self-sufficient; and if anyone feels the desire to be with you, they gotta remain patient and consistent in their efforts.

you seem like a person who can make people work for your attention in order to understand the value of it, which your fs is likely to take notice of and feel even more intrigued by.

it's possible your fs isn't really used to people playing hard to get with them, which is why you might stand out a lot.

°❀⋆.pile 2ೃ࿔*:･

you in your own eyes

you see yourself as artistic, creative, passionate and warm.

you might believe that you're the type of person who's quite sure of what they want in material or financial terms, ready to realize your ambitions and goals in a bold manner; but with a soft spot when it comes to their emotional world.

like you usually have a strong character, but some sappy little things might still get you all sensitive, teary-eyed and emotional. some of you might be a little embarrassed about this too. (don't be, it's very endearing)

i feel like some of you might have fire suns with water moons

you might see yourself as a dreamy person, who's in love with the concept and idea of being in love. someone who often finds themselves seeking romance and everything it entails.

you look at yourself as a person who tries to find beauty in everything they do; just loving to romanticise life and its little things. you might love and identify a lot with art, music, etc.

at the same time, you seem to be aware of how you definitely are not as easy as you appear to be, and for sure find yourself cautious of people trying to take advantage of you.

like i see you as a person who can be willingly delusional sometimes just to beautify life a little bit, but absolutely not as a person who's easily fooled or played with.

it's almost like the more people get to know you, the easier it is for them to spot your more sensitive and soft side. the rest might see more of your more fiery and strong sides, since that's usually how you present yourself to the outside.

it seems like as time went on, you've learnt to be more wary of people's motives and intentions, and understood the importance of cultivating clear boundaries in terms of how closely you connect to others, and how much you let them in.

you can have your outgoing and social moments, but it's likely you've become good at keeping a healthy inner distance to a lot of people you're surrounded by; almost like making them believe they're your friend, when in your eyes they're not really.

you also might see yourself as someone who's not afraid to fight when necessary; a person who will not allow others to step all over them. you'll step over them twice as hard.

i see a lot of this inner fierceness inside of you coming from potential trust issues; not always feeling like everyone has your best interests at heart. you might have been betrayed a few times, which has taught you to be more cautious, and just keeping certain, more personal things to yourself.

you in your fs' eyes

your fs sees you as a vibrant and charismatic person, who has this very radiant and captivating presence to them.

they might feel like the world stops whenever they look at you; you make everyone and everything else feel less important.

their first impression is likely to consist of you being this attractive, charming and confident person, who has an inspiring and intriguing effect on them.

similarly to pile 3, they're likely to look at you as a person who's quite different to them in a variety of ways; whether that's your ethnicity, culture, views, beliefs, lifestyle, upbringing.

your fs sees in you, someone who can pull this spark of energy and motivation out of situations others would feel sad about.

like the type of person who's just eager to gets the spirits up if the mood ever gets too gloomy and negative.

they look at you as a bright and powerful person, who doesn't like dwelling on the past and isn't easily beat down by their losses, but on the contrary, sees them as an opportunity for a new and potentially even better start.

example, they might watch you go through a break up and wonder how much it'd affect you emotionally, just for you to get back up and appear as confident and vibrant as ever.

you're giving a person who has the best break-up glow ups.

like you wanna prove to whoever lost out on you, that it in no way is your loss, but definitely is theirs. it's giving princess diana black revenge dress.

as the connection progresses, it's likely for your fs to see you more and more as someone they'd want to settle down and start a family with.

for my girls out there; your fs might quite literally, want you to be the mother of their children. they're likely to look at you as someone who has great potential to be a mother, because you're so multi-facetted and wellrounded.

in your fs eyes', not only are you a strong, independent and self-sufficient character who's capable of confidently taking charge of situations, but you're also immensely nurturing, caring and kind towards the people dearest to you.

they think that you hold a lot of empathy and genuine love for the special people in your life, and have this natural ability to make them feel understood, and taken care of.

i thought of this moment when justin bieber talked about seeing hailey bieber with a baby and thinking “she is the one.”

also, this keeps coming through; they just think you're beautiful. like.. so so pretty. they might stare at you a lot.

“i could look at you all day and never get sick of the sight.”

°❀⋆.pile 3ೃ࿔*:･

you in your own eyes

you see yourself as a bit of a lone-wolf, someone who doesn't feel understood by many people, and doesn't really feel like they always fit into too many places.

a person who's in continuous search of their true belonging, and their spot where they feel safe and comfortable.

you think of yourself as a deep, reflective and introspective person who seeks profound understanding of yourself and life. you might be aware of how you need alone-time, as well as times of peace and quiet to recharge.

you long to find your own identity and true purpose, outside of what other people want or expect from you.

some of you might even feel the desire to move overseas in hopes that the change of environment could help you step into your power and strength more. there's some feelings of.. feeling like you're not where you should be, and believing that your current environment doesn't serve you. this isn't where you see your best self thriving and blossoming.

some of you might be using your spirituality to manifest a better life, and spend a lot of time on the internet trying to find guidance and ways to manifest your dream life.

you simply do not see yourself as a person, who's okay with just allowing others to take control of what you do, or your life.

you see yourself as a very driven person, who once they set their mind to something, absolutely have to get it done. like tunnel vision, this is what i want and nothing else.

while at the same time, you usually aren't someone who acts on a completely impulsive whim; you try your best to make all your decisions based on logic and reason.

you might recognize yourself as being a fairminded person, who's eager to balance your focus on your goals and your strong determination, with the importance to remain responsible and just in the way you get there.

there might be a struggle in you, between following the path you deem as best for yourself, while also making sure the people around you don't have to suffer because of it.

this dilemma between serving yourself, and serving others.

the dilemma between standing out, and fitting in.

you're strong, pile 3.. i know the road here wasn't easy, but you're persevering and doing an absolutely applaudable job.

you in your fs' eyes

your fs will view you as someone who's quite different to them. a person who's like a breath of fresh air.

they might notice that you hold beliefs different to them, proceed with things differently or approach certain situations differently, and therefore intrigue them majorly.

they'll look at you as a person who can transform them. someone who has the potential to change their life in a significant and impactful manner.

they also could see you as someone quite unpredictable, who always brings something new and fresh to the table.

your fs could be someone with masculine energy, potential earth sign. they're someone who's work-oriented, mature, possibly older than you in age, good with money and has a strong sense of responsibility.

they will see you as a person who's much more in tune with their emotions than them, and has this beautiful sense of empathy, and compassion for the people around them.

a loving person who supports others in a gentle and caring manner, and has a comforting and warm effect on them.

they will like how you bring this new sense of affection into their environment.

you could help them steer their gaze away from work work work, and make them believe in the beauty of love again.

like this person will literally have their fantasies awakened because of you. you will make them believe that soulmates are real, and that they finally found their person in you.

the puzzle piece they didn't know was missing in their lives.

it's almost like “how am i so attracted to pile 3.. when they're so different to me?” you'll quite literally have them wrapped around your finger.

this person might be someone who's usually quite stubborn and stuck in their ways, but something about your unique existence will change that; they'll want to understand someone else's opinions for a change.

they'll truly feel this desire to put themselves into your shoes and look at things from your point of view. you might quite literally teach them what empathy means.

both of you give the vibe of someone more independent, but are likely to change that for each other.

like you will make your fs want to be alone together with someone; that person will be you. and vice versa.

you'll find home in each other.

oh i could go on & on about this pile, the energy is so sweet

even as i started shuffling, i already began going into full on dreamy lovey-dovey 🥰 mode

#kpop tarot #pac reading #pac #tarot reading #tarot community #tarot #personal reading #pick a card #pick a pile #pick a card reading

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dcxdpdabbles · 7 months ago

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DCxDP idea: To Be Human Again

Danny had not been human for a long time. His home dimension had long since fallen. He lost his friends and family to old age, watched their descendants rise and fall in the same way, and witnessed his Earth come to an end.

When the cosmos erupted and took the solar system he knew and loved, Danny was oddly at peace with the end. He was no longer a Halfa but a full Spirit of the Stars. Solar flares ran through his veins rather than blood, stardust decorated his skin in gently kissed freckles, and his eyes held the swirling clouds of the cosmos.

Danny had not become a ghost. He had transformed into an Ancient, commanding the prophecies, fates, and endless opportunities that all living beings could experience in their lifetimes.

He flouted through his domain, witnessing battles between Lords of Choas and Order. Planets gain life and break apart. Endless time stretching from the graveities he weaves to flouting stones.

As time passes, his name begins to fade into legends and myths, and even the ghosts that once battled with him forget their time together. They, too, can age at a much slower rate, but change comes for them. He is present for Box Lunch's birth, but when he leaves to create light in the darkness, he misses her growing up. When he returns, Box Lunch does not know him, trembling in place as she bows low like her parents.

He stares at her, wondering what he found wrong with her, until he realizes she is a young adult. Were it not for his once evil timeline, he wouldn't have known her child form. He had missed it.

His gaze falls onto the much older pair of ghosts who call him by his new title. Neither Box Ghost nor Lunch Lady show any signs of remembering his name. They greet him with his title, and act as if though that is his identifier.

How many eons had it been since he last heard someone call him Phantom? Or even Danny?

"Lord Star Weaver?" Box Lunch stammers when the giant being only continues to stare. "Is something the matter?"

"Hmm," he considers her question, wondering if his realizations upset him. It's not that he was lonely or that he missed the sound of his name. But he has spent eons in a haze focusing on his work, and now it's almost as if he was waking from a dream.

Dreams....what did those feel like again?

"Tell me, Box Lunch, are there any portals to any living Earths?" His voice booms over the Realms, echoing as if they were a part of him. Maybe they were.

Danny had not sat on his throne since his elder sister breathed her last, but he still remembered the way the Infinite Realms changed on his whims. It's where he learned to weave stars. The young woman's ghost looked startled before she gestured vaguely to a path behind her.

"Yes, sir. I regularly use the anchored portal to visit the local Earth. It's where my father was born before his death."

Danny looks down at Box Ghost before leaning toward Box Lunch's height. She is no bigger than his pupils, and she seems frozen in terror as his eyes glow with hunger. "Show me," he says.

Her parents make strangling noises, but they wouldn't dare speak against the King and Ancient of creation. They send their daughter worried tight smiles but encourage her to lead the Star Waver to the portal.

She flights for a solid hour, his large form sending every ghost into hiding as he passes. Despite not having a living heart, he knows that it beats a mile a minute within her chest as her glow flickers in uncertainty.

They arrive at the portal, a swirling green pool resting in the open mouth of a mechanical jester. Danny thinks it looks like the building of an amusement park. He remember going to one once with Sam. This had been the Funhouse, filled to the brim with trick mirrors.

The memory causes him to smile.

Lunch Box nervously moves her hands one after another, bowing at the waist and stepping to the side so Danny can consider the portal. He is much larger than the building and doubts his foot would fit inside the portal.

He should change his form.

"Here it is, Lord Star Weaver, the portal to the human-AGHHHH!" Box Lunch's words fade into a scream as two bright rings of light form around the Ancient. Fearing she had offended the being and he was planning on retaliating, she flings herself to the ground before the portal, begging for her existence.

"I will do anything!" She cries, head pressing against the glowing green stone underneath her. "Mercy, please, Lord Star Weaver."

"Anything? Then you shall be my guide in the new Earth, " a human voice says. Shocked, she raises her head only to see that the Ancient has vanished and that a human teenager with soft fluffy hair, big baby blue eyes, and the most innocent demeanor is staring back at her.

Were it not for the soul she could feel carefully folded up inside him, she would have thought him a human who stumbled through the portal.

"My....Lord?" she dares to ask, and she's rewarded with a soft smile. Honestly, the human body the Star Weaver has chosen is an odd one. It looks like a strong gust of wind could knock him over.

"Yes. Where does this portal lead?"

"Gotham," She shutters out, "The city within the United States of Earth. This portal is in te middle of a human outlaw named Joker, but humans there aren't able to see us very well so he never bothers me."

"Gotham" Danny rolls the name on his human tongue, tasting it as the sound vibrates through his bones and his heart. It's been so long since he last felt this alive, and if that was what the name could do, who knows what the city could bring him. "What a wonderful place to get lost in, don't you agree, big sister?"

"Um...I beg your pardon?" Lunch Box blinks, but he shifts her fate with a snap of his fingers. Since she had never been alive, having been a Realms born, Danny has control of her guiding star. He moved it for one that belonged to a version of herself born in the human world.

Lunch Box's body shifts into flesh and blood. Her draw drops as she stares at her human hands. Danny grins. "I'm Danny Fenotn, moving to Gotham with my older sister. Adopted, of course. Who might you be?"

She looks at him with horror and heartbreak, but what leaves her mouth is only three words: "I'm Della Fenton."

"Della." He repeats the name, nodding his head and smiling. "It's lovely."

"It was my mother's Earth name before her death, " she says in a daze, and Danny smiles, striding into the portal without a second glance.

"Come on, Della, I want to see our new home."

He steps into the portal, while she can only look out over the Realms that no longer whisper and speak to her. How could it? She was no longer a ghost. She silently apologizes to her parents, who would likely be waiting at their haunt for her, and turns away from the only home she's ever known.

She can not afford to anger the Star Weaver. If he can breathe life into her with a mere snap of her fingers, she fears what he can do to take it away.

On the other side of the portal Della finds that her King has been caught by humans, who have tied him up to a chair and a snickering clown waved a knife in his face.

His gentle smile did not leave his face even as the Joker sliced two thin lines on his cheek.

"Della" Danny calls never taking his eyes off the clown. "Is this the outlaw you spoke of?"

Human goons swarm her. She is shocked to find that they can touch her as she is thrown on the ground, only to remember she is now human. The dull ache in her chin is her new reality.

"Yes. That's the Joker," She says after getting her wits about her. One of the goons presses the heel of his foot on top of her head, slamming her back to the ground and breaking her nose. A scatter of snickers echoes through the room as Joker loudly cackles.

"That's right, little boy. I'm the Joker, and this is my Fun House. What were you two doing sneaking about here uninvited?"

There are teeth in the Star Weaver's answer, and she shivers in place, wondering how she will survive him. "Oh, I just felt like star gazing. Say, did you know your guiding star is becoming dim?"

#dcxdpdabbles #dcxdp crossover #To be Human Again #A immortal Danny has forgotten his humanity #Lunch Box Danny Phantom #He's on vacation #He wants to see what has changed #Joker picked a very bad person to bother #Not even Clockwork messes with him #Morally Grey Danny Phantom

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stylesispunk · 11 months ago

Text

"Did the love affair maim you too?"

Joel miller x f!reader

next part

Summary: Joel doesn't like you until he loses all his memories.

w.c: 14k> (longest piece I've written and my eyes are dry)

warnings: fluff, mention of amnesia, memory loss, ANGST and angst, and more angst because I love angst. There is smut but you already know I'm bad at writing that. No proof reading, I'm lazy, sorry.

a/n: hello! I got inspired by this "memory loss" type of story. It was supposed to be a one shoot, but I had to split the whole thing so another part is more likely to happen. I know there has been some drama surrounding writers and I want to say that every single person who writes and makes an art with that is amazing! Everyone who is reading this, please give creators here your flowers. With that being said, Happy reading or not 😭💌 Reblogs and comments are always appreciated. (come on, talk to me)

dividers by @saradika-graphics

Joel didn't used to hate women, but man, when he met you for the first time, you crawled under his skin. He had fun with you, making jokes, trying to get on your nerves. For his hell, everyone in Jackson loved you; after all, you were the nurse and the sweetheart. Always looking after everyone, always being sweet to everyone.

It was a sunny afternoon when you first arrived in Jackson, your kind demeanor and skilled hands quickly gaining the trust and admiration of the townsfolk. Joel watched from a distance with his arms crossed and a scowl on his face. He couldn't understand why everyone was so taken with you. To him, you seemed too soft, too gentle for the brutal world they lived in.

"Hey, Joel," Tommy called out one day, pulling Joel from his brooding thoughts. "We're heading out on patrol. You should meet the new nurse. She's something else."

Joel grunted in response, not bothering to hide his disinterest. He didn't need to meet you to know what kind of person you were. In his mind, you were just another naive newcomer who wouldn't last a week.

But fate had other plans. That very evening, a group of raiders attacked the outer perimeter. The town was thrown into chaos, and Joel found himself side by side with you, defending the walls. He couldn't help but notice your bravery and the way you handled yourself under pressure.

After the attack, as the town counted its injuries and losses, you worked tirelessly, tending to the wounded. Joel watched you, his irritation growing as he saw the way everyone fawned over you, thanking you for your care.

"Think you're some kind of hero, huh?" Joel muttered as he approached you, his voice laced with sarcasm.

You looked up at him, exhaustion evident in your eyes, but you offered a small, tired smile. "Just doing my job, Joel."

"Your job?" Joel scoffed. "You think patching up a few cuts and bruises is going to keep these people safe? This world doesn't care how sweet you are."

You met his gaze, unwavering. "And what would you have me do, Joel? Let them suffer? We're all trying to survive here, and we all have our roles to play."

Joel huffed and walked away, but your words lingered in his mind. Despite himself, he couldn't deny that you were right. Over the following weeks, Joel continued to watch you, his annoyance slowly giving way to a grudging respect. He noticed how you never backed down, how you always stood your ground, even when faced with his relentless jabs.

One day, during a particularly harsh winter storm, you and Joel were sent out on a supply run. The weather was brutal, and the path was treacherous. As the wind howled around you, Joel found himself instinctively moving closer, his protective instincts kicking in despite his irritation.

"Watch your step," he warned, his voice gruff.

You nodded, shivering against the cold. "Thanks, Joel."

As you both trudged forward, the wind picked up, and visibility dropped to almost nothing. You focused on placing one foot in front of the other, barely able to see Joel a few steps ahead. Suddenly, you heard a sharp crack and a thud.

"Joel!" you shouted, fear gripping your heart.

Rushing forward, you found Joel lying on the ground, unconscious, blood trickling from a gash on his forehead. He must have slipped on the ice and hit his head on a rock hidden beneath the snow.

Panic set in, but you forced yourself to stay calm. You needed to get him back to Jackson quickly. You checked his pulse, relieved to find it steady, then did your best to bandage the wound with the supplies you had. With great effort, you managed to lift Joel and drape him over your shoulder, carrying him back through the storm.

By the time you reached Jackson, you were exhausted and freezing, but you didn't stop until you got Joel to the infirmary. The doctors took over, treating his wound and monitoring his condition.

You sat by Joel's bedside, watching him closely. Hours passed, and eventually he began to stir. His eyes fluttered open, and he looked around, disoriented.

"Joel?" you said softly, leaning forward.

He turned his head to you, his brow furrowing in confusion. But then, a slow, almost lazy smile spread across his face. "Well, hello there, beautiful," he said, his voice low and smooth. "Did I die and wake up in heaven?"

You blink, taken aback by his words. "Uh, Joel, it's me. Do you remember what happened?"

Joel's smile didn't waver as he looked at you. "I remember everything... except meeting you before. Are you sure we haven't met in a dream?"

You glanced at Tommy, who had just walked into the room, and saw the same confusion mirrored on his face. "Joel," Tommy said cautiously, stepping closer, "do you know who I am?"

Joel's eyes shifted to Tommy, his smile fading into a look of mild frustration. "Of course I do, Tommy. You're my brother. But I'm more interested in getting to know this doll here."

Tommy exchanged bewildered looks with you. "Joel, this is… Ah. She's... well, you two never really got along."

Joel's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Really? Well, I must've been an idiot then because I can't imagine not liking someone like you."

Your heart raced, unsure how to respond to this flirtatious side of Joel, the same who hours ago was trying to crawl under your skin, the same one who had rejected you all this time. "Joel, you really don't remember me at all?"

Joel shook his head, still gazing at you with that same enamored look. "Not a thing. But I gotta say, I feel like I'm seeing you for the first time, and I like what I see."

Tommy scratched his head, clearly at a loss. "This is... something else. We need to figure out what happened to his memory."

You nodded, trying to process the sudden shift in Joel's demeanor. You knew the hit on the head did something to his memory, but you didn’t know how to face it. "Joel, you hit your head pretty hard. The doctors said you might have some memory loss. Maybe this is part of it."

Joel reached out and gently took your hand, his touch sending a shiver down your spine. "Well, if forgetting the past means I get to start over with you, I think I can live with that."

You couldn't help but blush, feeling a mix of confusion and something else you couldn't quite place. Perhaps butterflies are flying all around inside your tummy. "We'll take it slow, okay? There's a lot you need to know."

Joel's grip on your hand tightened slightly, his eyes never leaving yours. "As long as you're the one teaching me, I'm all in."

Tommy coughed awkwardly, breaking the moment. "Alright, let's give Joel some time to rest and recover. We'll figure this out together."

You nodded, reluctantly pulling your hand away from Joel's. "Get some rest, Joel. We'll talk more later."

As you and Tommy left the room, you couldn't shake the feeling of Joel's gaze following you. Tommy put a reassuring hand on your shoulder. "We'll get to the bottom of this. Just... be careful. He's not the same Joel right now."

You nodded, your mind racing with the implications of Joel's memory loss and his sudden interest in you. The days ahead were sure to be challenging, but you couldn't deny the flicker of excitement at the thought of getting to know this new, more open version of Joel.

A version where he could get to know you and maybe, like, a new story waiting to be written with the both of you becoming friends, and not just acquaintances just having to tolerate each other for the community’s sake.

The days following Joel's accident were a whirlwind of confusion and unexpected emotions dancing on your mind. Joel's flirtatious comments and affectionate demeanor were a stark contrast to the gruff, often combative man you had known before.

You had started to get used to feeling his nice demeanor towards you. You found yourself happier than before, smiling at the thought of him when you weren’t with him, and he had become your last thought on your bed just before going to sleep, but you were aware his condition perhaps wasn’t permanent and he was going to recover his memories of you, so you didn’t want to take advantage of that, nor did you want to fall for Joel, not when the fear of him waking up one day and hating you as usual was a threat.

His recovery was slow but steady, and you spent a lot of time by his side, helping him piece together the fragments of his memory. Every interaction felt like walking on fire, with Joel's behavior making your heart flutter and your mind racing at thousand miles per hour.

As you were changing the bandage on his head, Joel watched you with a soft smile. "You know, you have the gentlest touch. It's like you're an angel sent to take care of me."

You blushed, avoiding his gaze. "I'm just doing my job, Joel. Making sure your pretty head heals properly."

Joel reached up and gently brushed a strand of hair behind your ear. "You're more than just a nurse to me now. I don't know what it is, but I feel this connection with you. Like we're meant to be."

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your emotions. "Joel, a few days ago I was nothing to you. You don’t remember me, so please just focus on getting better."

Joel's expression softened; his eyes filled with earnestness. "I get it, but I can't help how I feel. This connection—it's real to me, even if I don't remember our past."

You bit your lip, feeling a mix of frustration and affection. "Joel, you're vulnerable right now. Your mind is trying to make sense of everything, and it's confusing. We need to take things slow."

Joel nodded reluctantly, his hand lingering near your cheek before he pulled it back. "I trust you. Just know that I'm here, and I want to get to know you, past or no past."

You gave him a reassuring smile. "One step at a time, okay? Let's focus on getting you back on your feet first."

Just then, Tommy walked in, carrying a tray of food. He cleared his throat, causing you to step back from Joel. "Brought you some lunch, big brother. How’re you feeling?"

Joel's eyes lit up at the sight of his brother. "Thanks, Tommy. I'm feeling better every day. And with this sunshine here, it's hard not to feel good."

Tommy gave you a knowing look, his concern evident. "Glad to hear it. Mind if I have a word with you outside?" he asked, looking towards you.

You nodded, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. "Of course, Tommy."

As you stepped outside the room, Tommy closed the door behind you, his expression serious. "How are you holding up?"

You sighed, crossing your arms. "It's... complicated. Joel is so different now. He's kind, attentive, and he seems genuinely interested in me. But he doesn't remember our past—how much we clashed."

Tommy nodded, his face lined with concern. "I can see how that would be confusing. But you have to be careful. This might just be his way of coping with the memory loss. He's latching onto the one constant he has right now—you."

You looked down, feeling a lump form in your throat. "I know. I'm trying to keep my distance, but it's hard. He's... he's different, Tommy. And I can't deny that I'm starting to care for him."

Tommy placed a hand on your shoulder, his grip firm and reassuring. "I get it. But you need to remember that his memory might come back, and when it does, he could revert to the Joel we knew before. You have to protect yourself, too."

“Am I that unlovable?” you sighed.

Tommy's expression softened, and he shook his head. "No, you're not unlovable. Far from it. But the Joel we knew before... he had his walls up, and you know how stubborn he can be. If his memory comes back, he might go back to those old habits, those old defenses."

You nodded, feeling the weight of his words. "I understand. It's just... complicated."

Tommy gave your shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "Just take it slow. Don't rush into anything, and remember to take care of yourself too. You suffered a lot before arriving here."

You managed a small smile. "Thanks, Tommy. I needed that."

Tommy smiled back. "Anytime."

Returning to Joel's room, you found him sitting up, his eyes lighting up as you walked in. "Hey, everything okay?"

You nodded, forcing a smile. "Yeah, just had a chat with Tommy."

Joel's expression became thoughtful. "You know, I'm really grateful for everything you're doing for me. I can't imagine what it must be like, dealing with me like this."

You sat down beside him, taking a deep breath. "It's not easy, Joel, but it's worth it. You're worth it."

Joel reached out, taking your hand in his. "You know, even though I don't remember everything, I feel like I'm seeing you for the first time. And I like what I see."

Your heart raced, and you struggled to keep your emotions in check. "Joel, we need to take things slow. Focus on your recovery first."

Joel nodded, a small smile playing on his lips. "I understand. But I can't help how I feel."

He has repeated the same phrase as before, and you couldn’t help but feel yourself diving into a deep ocean for him.

You squeezed his hand gently. "One step at a time, okay?"

Joel's eyes held a determined glint. "One step at a time."

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the Jackson settlement as you walked briskly toward the main gate, your medical bag slung over your shoulder. You spotted Joel waiting for you, his arms crossed and a scowl already etched on his face.

"You're late," he growled as you approached.

You rolled your eyes. "I'm five minutes late, Joel. I had to take care of a kid with a fever."

Joel grunted, clearly unimpressed. "We have a schedule for a reason. Being late puts us at risk."

"Don't lecture me about risk," you shot back, your patience wearing thin. "I know the dangers out there just as well as you do."

Joel's eyes narrowed. "Do you? Because sometimes it feels like you're too soft for this world. Always stopping to help every stray animal and sick kid."

"Excuse me for having a heart," you snapped. "Not everyone wants to live like a damn machine."

"Having a heart can get you killed," Joel retorted, his voice rising. "Out there, you need to be tough. Focused."

"And maybe if you lightened up a bit, people wouldn't be so scared of you," you shot back, your frustration boiling over.

Joel took a step closer, his jaw clenched. "I don't care if people are scared of me. I care about keeping them safe. And you, with your bleeding heart, make that harder."

You felt a surge of anger and hurt at his words. "You know what, Joel? Maybe the problem isn't me. Maybe it's you. Maybe you're so wrapped up in your own pain that you can't see anyone else's."

Joel's face darkened, a mix of anger and something else—something like hurt—flashing in his eyes. "You don't know anything about my pain."

"And you don't know anything about mine," you replied, your voice trembling with emotion. "So maybe you should stop judging me and start seeing that we're all trying to survive in this hell together."

For a moment, the two of you stood there, the tension crackling between you like a live wire. Then Joel turned away, his shoulders stiff. "Let's just get this patrol over with."

You followed him out of the gate, your heart heavy with unresolved emotions. The silence between you was thick and uncomfortable, but neither spoke. The rift between you seemed insurmountable, and you couldn't see how things would ever change.

You woke up with a pain on your neck. You had fallen asleep on a chair next to Joel’s bed where he was now lay resting, his breathing even and steady. His recovery was going well, but the emotional landscape was far more complex and you wanted to take the risk to discover it.

You watched him for a moment, taking a mental picture of his face, the creases on his skin, how peaceful he looked like this. feeling the weight of uncertainty and guilt within you.

In that exact moment, Joel stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He looked around, his gaze settling on you with a warmth that made your heart skip a beat. "Hey, sunshine."

"Hey," you replied softly, mirroring his smile "How are you feeling?"

Joel stretched, wincing slightly but smiling nonetheless. "Better. Thanks to you."

You couldn't help but smile back, the tension easing a bit. "Just doing my job, Joel."

His eyes softened as he looked at you. "You're doing more than just your job. You've been taking care of me, looking out for me. I appreciate it."

You felt a warmth spread through you at his words. "It's what anyone would do."

Joel shook his head slightly. "No, not everyone. You're special, and I... I think I’m starting to understand that."

You felt a flutter in your chest at his words, a mix of emotions swirling within you. "Joel, you don't need to say that. You're still recovering, and things are confusing right now."

Joel's gaze remained steady, his expression earnest. "I mean it. There's something about you... something that's been here all along, and I was too stubborn to see it."

Your heart ached with the weight of his words, knowing how complicated the situation was. "Joel…”

“Did I care about you before?” he asked, gaze locked with yours.

You shook your head “No. Not really.”

You shook your head, feeling the sting of the truth. “No. Not really.”

Joel looked troubled, his brows knitting together. “I find that hard to believe. Because right now, I can’t imagine not caring about you.”

You took a deep breath, trying to find the right words. “Things were different before, Joel. We didn’t get along. You were... closed off, and I guess I was just someone who got under your skin.”

Joel’s expression softened with regret. “I’m sorry. For whatever I did to make you feel that way. I wish I could remember, but all I know is that right now, I see you, and I feel... connected.”

A memory from the past surged forward, vivid and painful. It was a cold evening in Jackson, just after a particularly difficult supply run. You and Joel had been at odds all day, and the tension between you was palpable.

"Why do you always have to be so damn difficult?" Joel snapped; his voice harsh as he slammed the door behind him.

You bristled at his tone, your own temper flaring. "Maybe because you treat me like I’m incompetent! I’m trying my best out there, Joel. We’re supposed to be a team."

Joel scoffed, his eyes narrowing. "A team? You’re a liability more than anything."

The words cut deep, but you stood your ground. "That’s not fair, and you know it. I’m just trying to help, like everyone else."

Joel’s face twisted with frustration. "Help? You call what you do helping? It’s a wonder anyone here can stand you."

The hurt was immediate and sharp, but you refused to let him see how much his words affected you. "At least I’m trying to do something good. You just push everyone away."

Joel stepped closer, his expression dark. "Maybe there’s a reason for that. I find it hard to believe anyone could actually love you."

The silence that followed was deafening. You stared at him, disbelief and pain warring within you. Without another word, you turned and left, unable to bear the weight of his cruelty.

Back in the present, you blinked, trying to dispel the memory. Joel was watching you closely, concern etched into his features. "What’s wrong?"

You forced a smile, though it didn’t reach your eyes. "Just... remembering something."

Joel reached out, gently taking your hand. "I wish I could remember too. So, I could make it right."

You looked down at your joined hands, the warmth of his touch grounding you. "Maybe it’s better this way.

Joel squeezed your hand gently. "A fresh start sounds good. But I still want to know everything. About us, about what I did wrong. So, I can be better."

You nodded, taking the risk and pushing your luck.

You and Joel could become friends, right?

"You and I... we could become friends, right?" you asked.

Joel’s eyes softened even more, and he smiled. "Friends sounds like a good start. We can build from there."

You felt a surge of relief. "Friends it is, then."

The days passed, each one bringing closeness between you and Joel. He had got better, slowly starting to get back to his tasks. The community noticed the change in him, how he was more open and approachable. You often found yourselves working together, whether it was on supply runs or him visiting the infirmary when you were there working.

One afternoon, you were busy organizing medical supplies when Joel walked in, a smile spreading across his face as he saw you. "Hey, need any help in here?" he asked, leaning against the doorframe.

You looked up, smiling back. "Joel, what are you doing here? I thought you were out patrolling.”

Joel shrugged, stepping further into the room. "Finished early. Thought I’d come by and see if you needed a hand."

He, in fact lied. He switched places with another guy just to spend time with you again. He could feel your fear irradiating but he wanted to get to know you better. He couldn’t wrap his mind around the fact he didn’t like someone like you and he wanted to change that.

You chuckled, shaking your head. " Sure, you can help me with these supplies. There are some boxes that need to be sorted."

Joel rolled up his sleeves and joined you, his presence filling the small room with a comforting warmth. As you worked side by side, you found yourself stealing glances at him, marveling at the changes in him. He was more relaxed, more open, and undeniably more attentive.

"You know," Joel said after a while, breaking the comfortable silence, "I think I like helping out here more than patrolling."

You raised an eyebrow, teasingly. "Oh? And why is that?"

Joel grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "Because I get to spend more time with you."

You blushed, focusing intently on the box in front of you. "You’re just saying that."

"No, I mean it," Joel replied, his tone sincere. "I like being around you. You make everything better."

You felt a warmth spread through you at his words, and you couldn't help but smile. "Well, I like having you around too."

The truth was that stealing glances at him now felt like interlocking fingers without even touching his skin, there wasn’t precisely a sexual tension or possessiveness over him, but a warm incandescent glow within every time he smiled at you. That was something you hadn’t felt in so long, and this time felt so right yet so wrong.

You both continued to work in comfortable silence, the rhythm of your tasks interrupted only by the occasional exchange of smiles or a shared joke. The closeness was undeniable, and you could feel the lines between friendship and something more starting to blur.

One afternoon, you were out on a supply run together, scanning the area for anything useful. The sun was setting, casting a golden hue over the landscape. As you bent down to pick up some supplies, Joel suddenly appeared by your side, his proximity making your heart race.

"Need a hand?" he asked, his voice low and warm.

You looked up at him, finding it hard to concentrate with him so close. "Sure, thanks."

As you both worked, the conversation flowed easily. Joel's presence was comforting, and you found yourself opening up to him in ways you hadn't before.

"You know, I never really thanked you properly," Joel said, his tone serious.

"For what?" you asked, genuinely curious.

"For saving my life. For being there for me when I needed it the most," Joel replied, his eyes meeting yours with a sincerity that made your heart ache.

You shook your head, a soft smile on your lips. "You don’t need to thank me, Joel. I did what anyone would do."

"Not anyone," he insisted, his gaze intense. "You went above and beyond. You always do."

You blushed, the warmth spreading through you once again. "Well, I care about you. I can’t help it."

Joel's expression softened, and he reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair behind your ear. "I care about you too. More than I ever thought possible."

The moment hung in the air, filled with unspoken words and emotions. You could feel the pull between you, the undeniable connection that had grown stronger with each passing day.

"Joel, this is complicated," you whispered, your voice trembling slightly. "We need to take things slow."

"I know," he replied, his hand lingering near your face. "But I’m not going anywhere, but I’m not going anywhere.”

Joel's feelings for you had grown stronger. He found himself being smitten and completely in love by you, by your beauty, your strength and your soft heart. You were everything that was good with this world. Where everything and everyone was people with shadows dying out of melancholy, you were an angel wrapping your warm arms around him, making his world brighter. He had learnt how to savor the colors again.

As you continued your days together, Joel couldn't help but find ways to be close to you. He would always volunteer to accompany you on supply runs, ensuring you were safe and cared for. He would show up at the infirmary with small gifts – a flower he found on his patrol, a cup of your favorite tea, or a book he thought you might like. His gestures were always thoughtful and sincere, each one a testament to the depth of his feelings.

Joel couldn't take his eyes off you. You were kneeling in the ground, your hands deftly cleaning something you had found, your face serene and focused. Joel felt a swell of emotion, unable to keep it to himself any longer.

"You know," he began, his voice gentle, "I used to think this world had nothing left to offer. But then I met you."

You looked up, your heart skipping a beat at the intensity in his gaze. "Joel..."

He knelt beside you, his hand covering yours. "You make everything better. You've brought light into my life, and I can't imagine going back to the way things were."

You felt a mixture of warmth and apprehension. His words were everything you wanted to hear, yet the uncertainty of the situation weighed heavily on your heart. "Joel, this is all so new and complicated. We need to be careful."

Joel's grip on your hand tightened slightly, his eyes full of determination. "I know it's complicated, and I know we've got a lot to figure out. But I can't ignore what I feel. I want to be here for you, with you, through everything."

You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his words. "I want that too, Joel. But we need to take it one step at a time."

He nodded, a soft smile spreading across his face. "I will make you fall in love with me," he said, his voice full of determination and warmth.

You couldn't help but smile back, feeling a mix of hope and apprehension. "You're quite confident, aren't you?"

Joel chuckled, his eyes never leaving yours. "When it comes to you, I am."

You smiled, feeling a flutter in your chest at his words. "Let's get back to Jackson," you said, standing up and brushing off your clothes. Joel stood with you, offering a hand to help you up.

As you made your way back to Jackson, the conversation flowed easily. Joel told you stories from before the outbreak, sharing pieces of his past he hadn’t opened up about before. You found yourself laughing at his anecdotes, feeling a growing sense of connection.

When you finally reached the gates of Jackson, the sun was setting, casting a warm glow over the community. People greeted you both warmly, noticing the change in Joel's demeanor. He was more relaxed and more present, and it was clear to everyone that you had a positive influence on him.

Tommy approached, a knowing smile on his face. "Good to see you both back safe and sound."

Joel clapped his brother on the shoulder. "It was a good run. Found some useful supplies."

Tommy nodded, then looked at you. "And how about you? Everything alright?"

You smiled, feeling the warmth of Joel’s gaze on you on your face. "Yeah, everything's good."

As the evening settled in, you and Joel made your way to the communal dining hall. The chatter of the community filled the air, and you found a spot to sit together. Joel’s hand lingered near yours, his touch reassuring and steady.

Tommy, Ellie, and Maria soon joined you at the table. Tommy was carrying a tray laden with food, Ellie trailing behind him with a mischievous grin, and Maria gave you a warm smile as she took a seat.

"Good to see you two back," Elli said, setting down the tray and passing out plates. “How was the run?" Ellie asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

"It went well," Joel replied, his gaze briefly meeting yours before he continued. "Found some useful supplies and had some good company."

Ellie smirked, elbowing Tommy. "I bet you did."

You blushed, focusing on your plate as you filled it with food. Maria, ever perceptive, glanced between you and Joel with a knowing smile. "It's good to see everyone together," she said, her tone light and warm.

As you all began to eat, the conversation flowed naturally. Tommy and Maria talked about the latest updates in the community, Ellie shared stories from her day, and Joel occasionally chimed in with his dry humor, making everyone laugh.

At one point, Ellie leaned over to you, her voice low enough so only you could hear. "Joel's been different lately. In a good way. You've been good for him."

You looked at her, surprised by her observation. "I hope so. It's been... a journey."

Ellie nodded, her expression sincere. "Just keep being you. That's all he needs."

The meal continued, filled with warmth and laughter. Joel's hand occasionally brushed against yours, sending electricity down your body.

Just as you were starting to relax, a woman approached the table, her presence causing a ripple of unease. It was Lori, one of the women Joel used to date. Joel visibly tensed, his gaze dropping to his plate as Lori stopped beside him, her smile a mix of surprise and something else you couldn't quite place.

“Joel," she said, her voice smooth and confident. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Joel looked up, a flicker of recognition in his eyes. "Lori. Uh, hi."

Lori glanced around the table, her eyes settling on you for a moment before she looked back at Joel. "I was just passing by and saw you all together. Mind if I join?"

Before anyone could respond, Tommy jumped in. "Sure, why not? There's always room for one more."

Lori pulled up a chair and sat down, her presence adding a layer of tension to the dynamics. Joel seemed uncomfortable; his usual confidence was replaced by nervous energy.

"So, Joel," Lori began, her tone light but probing. "How have you been? It's been a while."

Joel cleared his throat, glancing at you briefly before answering. "Yeah, it has. I've been... good. Just busy with everything here."

Lori nodded, her gaze shifting between you and Joel. "I can see that. Looks like you've made some new friends." She said, bitterly, “The last time I knew from you was when you left my house after our night, and then you hit your head and never spoke to me again.”

The table fell silent, tension crackling in the air. Joel looked uncomfortable, his gaze dropping to his plate. You could see the guilt and confusion in his eyes as he tried to process Lori's words.

"I'm sorry, Lori," Joel finally said, his voice low. "I don't remember much from before the accident. It's been... complicated."

Lori's expression softened slightly, but the hurt in her eyes remained. "I get that. But it still stings, you know? You just disappeared."

You felt a pang of empathy for Lori but also a fierce protectiveness over Joel. "It's been hard for him,” you said gently, trying to ease the tension. "Joel's been working hard to piece things together. He's different now, and we're all just trying to move forward."

Lori glanced at you, her expression unreadable. "I can see that, but it seems like you had taken advantage of the situation; he couldn’t stand your ass before his accident, and suddenly you have him like a little puppy following you everywhere.”

Your heart drops to your stomach, feeling warm spreading to your cheeks.

Joel's jaw tightened, and he quickly interjected, his voice firm. "That's enough, Lori. You don't know what you're talking about."

Lori raised an eyebrow, crossing her arms. "I just find it convenient, that's all."

Tommy leaned forward, his tone calm but authoritative. "Lori, we're all trying to move forward here. It's not fair to make accusations."

Ellie, always quick to defend those she cared about, added, "You weren't here to see what she did for Joel. She saved his life and has been helping him every step of the way."

Lori's gaze softened slightly, but the tension remained. "I'm sorry if I overstepped. I just needed to understand."

Maria nodded, her voice gentle. "We all get that, Lori. It's been a tough situation for everyone."

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your emotions. "It's okay. "You took a deep breath before continuing. “I’ll take some fresh air,” you said, standing up, not even looking down at Joel, who seemed sad at your whole dementor.

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your emotions. "It's okay. I—" you paused, feeling the weight of the conversation pressing down on you. "I’ll take some fresh air," you said, standing up abruptly. Avoiding eye contact with Joel, who looked sad and concerned, you made your way outside.

The cool evening air was a welcome relief, and you walked a little way from the dining hall, finding a quiet spot to gather your thoughts. You leaned against a tree, closing your eyes and taking deep, calming breaths.

After a few moments, you heard footsteps approaching. You opened your eyes to see Ellie standing there, her expression filled with concern. "Hey, you okay?"

You nodded, managing a small smile. "Yeah, I just needed a moment. That was a bit embarrassing."

Ellie walked over and leaned against the wall next to you. "Lori was out of line. You've been amazing with Joel. Anyone with eyes can see that."

“So, don’t you think I’ve been taking advantage of him?” You asked, really concerned.

“What are you talking about? He is the one completely enamored by you.” She replied, laughing.

Ellie laughed, shaking her head. "What are you talking about? He is the one completely enamored by you."

You sighed, leaning back against the wall. "I know, but sometimes it feels like I’m walking on eggshells. It feels like he is going to wake up from his trance and he will hate me again."

Ellie placed a comforting hand on your shoulder. "Listen, I've seen the way he looks at you. He’s happier, lighter. You’ve brought out a side of him I didn’t think existed. And trust me, if he didn’t want this, he’d make it clear."

You took a deep breath.

“What’s the worst that could happen?” Ellie asked.

“Me, falling in love with him,” you answer.

“What’s the worst that could happen?” Ellie asked, her tone light but sincere.

You sighed, the weight of your fears pressing down. “Me, falling in love with him,” you answered quietly.

Ellie gave you a sympathetic look. "And why is that so bad?"

"Because," you began, struggling to put your feelings into words, "what if his memories come back and he realizes he doesn’t feel the same way? Or worse, what if I fall in love with him and he changes back to the old Joel, the one who couldn’t stand me?"

Ellie nodded, understanding. "That's a risk, sure. But you can't let fear keep you from living. You've been through so much together, and it's clear he cares about you deeply now. Maybe that won't change."

You bit your lip, the turmoil inside you reflected in your eyes. "I just don't want to get hurt, Ellie. And I don’t want to hurt him either."

Ellie squeezed your shoulder. "I get it. But if you keep holding back, you'll never know what could be. Sometimes, you just have to take a leap of faith."

You let out a shaky breath, nodding. "Maybe you're right."

Ellie grinned. "Of course I'm right. Now, let's get back in there. Joel's probably worrying himself sick."

You smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "Okay, let's go."

As you walked back into the dining hall, you found Joel still sitting at the table, his eyes lighting up when he saw your return. He stood up as you approached, his concern evident.

"You okay?" he asked softly.

You nodded, giving him a reassuring smile. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just needed a breather."

Joel looked relieved, and he gently took your hand. "I'm glad you're back."

The evening continued with easy conversation, and as you all eventually made your way out of the dining hall, Joel walked beside you, his presence a comforting constant.

"Thanks for dinner," he said softly as you approached your door.

"Anytime," you replied, feeling a warmth in your chest at his words. "It was nice, being with everyone."

Joel nodded, his eyes lingering on you. "It was. And I meant what I said today. I’ll make you fall in love with me.”

You chuckled softly, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement at his words. "You're really set on that, aren't you?"

Joel nodded, his expression serious but with a hint of a smile that made you go crazy. "I am. Because I know what I feel now, and I’m not going to let it slip away."

You looked into his eyes, seeing the sincerity there. "Joel, this is new for both of us. We need to take it one step at a time."

He took a step closer, his hand gently brushing against yours. “Am I that unlovable?”

You blinked, taken aback by his question. "What? No, Joel, you're not unlovable at all. It's just... complicated."

Joel's eyes softened, and he took your hand in his, his thumb gently brushing over your knuckles. "I get that. But I need you to know that I’m not going anywhere. I’ll wait as long as it takes."

You felt a warmth spread through you at his words. "I appreciate that, Joel. And I do care about you. A lot. It's just..."

"Scary?" he finished for you, his voice gentle.

You nodded.

Joel's expression turned thoughtful, and he nodded slowly. "Yeah, I get it. It is scary. But sometimes, the best things come from taking a leap of faith."

You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his words. "It’s not just about taking a leap. It’s about making sure we’re ready for whatever comes next."

Joel squeezed your hand gently, his eyes never leaving yours. "I understand. And I'm ready to take it slow to give you the space you need. Just know that I’m here for you, and I’m not giving up on us."

You felt a mix of relief and trepidation, but Joel's unwavering support gave you strength. "Thank you, Joel. That means a lot to me."

He leaned in, resting his forehead against yours for a moment, his breath warm against your skin. "We’ll figure it out, one step at a time."

You nodded, closing your eyes for a brief second, allowing yourself to savor the closeness and the promise of what might come. When you opened your eyes again, you saw Joel’s smile—a smile that made you believe in the possibility of a new beginning.

"Goodnight," he whispered, his voice tender, holding back the desire to cupp your face and kiss you.

"Goodnight, Joel," you replied, your heart fluttering, feeling the same as him.

Now standing, this close, face to face, skins touching. One of you would give in before, and once that happened, there was no going to be a way to stop two hearts beating this fast.

Joel's eyes locked onto yours, the intensity of his gaze revealing the depth of his emotions. You could see the conflict within him, the longing that mirrored your own. His hand lingered near your face, his fingers almost brushing against your skin, his breath warm and steady.

The moment felt suspended in time, the air between you charged with unspoken words and electric anticipation. You both stood there, so close that you could feel the heat radiating from each other, your hearts racing in sync.

Joel’s voice was barely above a whisper. “I don’t want to push you, but I also don’t want to pretend like I don’t feel this.”

You swallowed, your own voice trembling slightly. “I feel it too, Joel. But we need to be careful.”

Joel nodded, his expression a mix of desire and restraint. “I know. And I want to respect that. I just...” He hesitated, taking a deep breath as if trying to steady himself. “I don’t want to miss this chance with you. I’ve never felt this way before.”

Joel’s gaze flickered between your eyes and your lips, the desire and uncertainty evident in his expression. His hand gently cupped your face. His touch was tender, as if he were afraid to break the spell that bound you both.

You felt your heart race, every nerve ending alive with anticipation. Joel’s fingers brushed softly against your cheek, and you could see the struggle in his eyes as he fought to keep his emotions in check. His breath grew shallower, and his eyes closed for a brief moment, savoring the closeness.

Slowly, he leaned in, his lips brushing against yours in a soft, tentative kiss. It was gentle at first, a whisper of warmth and affection that sent a shiver down your spine. The moment felt both exhilarating and comforting, the culmination of all the unspoken words and feelings that had been building between you.

You responded instinctively, your lips moving softly against his. The kiss deepened gradually, a sweet exploration of new and uncharted territory. His hands moved to frame your face, his touch firm yet gentle, as if he were cherishing every second of this newfound closeness.

When you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless, your eyes locking in a moment of shared understanding. The kiss had been more than just a physical connection; it was a promise of something more, something that neither of you fully understood yet but were both eager to explore.

Joel’s smile was tender and full of warmth. “I’ve wanted to do that since I woke up that day at the infirmary,” he admitted softly, his eyes searching yours for any sign of hesitation.

You felt a blush rise to your cheeks at his confession. His words made your heart flutter even more, and you could see the sincerity in his eyes.

"I'm glad you did," you said softly, your voice barely above a whisper. "I've been feeling the same way."

Joel's smile widened, and he gently stroked your cheek with his thumb. "I didn’t want to rush things or push you. But now... now that we’ve shared this, I hope we can figure things out together."

You nodded, feeling a surge of hope and warmth. "I think we can. I want to see where this leads."

He took a deep breath, his gaze never leaving yours. "No pressure, just... being here with you."

You smiled, feeling a sense of calm and excitement. "I would like that.”

Joel nodded; his expression full of affection. "Good. Now, how about we get some rest? Tomorrow's a new day, and I want to spend it with you."

You felt a burst of warmth at his words and, inspired by the new closeness between you, you hesitated for just a moment before speaking up. “How about we go inside for a bit? I’ve got some tea. It might be nice to relax and talk more.”

Joel’s eyes lit up at the invitation, and he nodded with a smile. “That sounds perfect.”

You led the way to your house, the familiar surroundings now feeling different with Joel by your side. Once inside, you made your way to the kitchen and began preparing the tea. Joel watched you with an easy smile, clearly content.

As you waited for the water to boil, you and Joel chatted about lighter topics—how his recovery was going, plans for the community, and small anecdotes from your days. The conversation flowed easily, and the atmosphere between you was comfortable and warm.

When the tea was ready, you poured two cups and handed one to Joel. He took it with a grateful smile, his fingers brushing against yours. You both settled into a cozy corner of your living room, the soft light of a lamp casting a gentle glow around the room.

Joel sipped his tea, his gaze occasionally meeting yours. “This is nice,” he said softly. “Thank you for inviting me.”

Joel looked around your living room, the peaceful ambiance a stark contrast to the harsh world outside. He took another sip of his tea, then turned his gaze back to you. “You know, before all this, I had a pretty normal life. A family, a daughter named Sarah. She was... everything to me.”

His voice carried a tinge of sadness, and you could see the pain in his eyes. You nodded, sensing the weight of his memories. “I’m sorry, Joel. I can’t even imagine.”

Joel’s expression was somber but grateful. “Thanks. She was everything. When the outbreak happened, she... she didn’t make it. It’s been hard, you know? Trying to keep going and make sense of it all.”

You felt a pang of sympathy for him, knowing how devastating such a loss could be. “I understand. I lost my fiancé in a storm during the outbreak. We were caught outside, and he was... gone before I could do anything.”

Joel’s eyes softened with empathy. “That’s so tough. I’m really sorry you went through that.”

You took a deep breath, feeling the weight of your own memories. “It was the storm that made me afraid of them. Every time the weather changes, it reminds me of that day. I try not to let it control me, but sometimes, it’s hard.”

Joel reached out, placing his hand gently on yours. “I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with that. It’s brave of you to face it every day.”

You looked at his hand on yours, feeling a comforting warmth from his touch. “It’s been a struggle, but having people like you around makes it a little easier.”

Joel nodded, his gaze steady. “We all have our battles. But we’ve found ways to keep moving forward. And maybe together, we can make those battles a little less daunting.”

+++++

The days turned into weeks, and your relationship with Joel grew stronger. The bond you shared was evident in the way you looked at each other and the ease with which you interacted. People in Jackson had noticed the change in both of you, and there was a sense of warmth and contentment surrounding your partnership.

One afternoon, as you were working in the infirmary, organizing supplies and checking on patients, Joel walked in. He had that familiar, easy smile on his face, and his presence was a comforting one amidst the hectic pace of the medical work.

“Hey,” he said, leaning against the doorway. “Thought I’d stop by and see how you’re doing.”

You looked up, your face lighting up at the sight of him. “Hey, Joel. Just busy as usual. How’s everything on the patrol?”

Joel shrugged, walking over to where you were working. “Not too bad. But I figured I’d come by and keep you company. I know you’ve been spending a lot of time here.”

You nodded, your smile softening. “Yeah, I’ve been needed here more often lately. But it’s good to see you.”

Joel moved closer, his hand reaching out to gently touch your arm. “I’ve missed you. It’s different when you’re not around.”

You felt a surge of affection at his words. “I’ve missed you too. But this is important. People need help, and I want to make sure I’m here for them.”

Joel nodded, understanding in his eyes. “I get it. Just remember to take care of yourself too. I’d hate to see you running on empty.”

You chuckled, appreciating his concern. “I’ll try. But having you here now brought a smile to my face.”

He smiled, his gaze lingering on you. “Well, I’m glad to be here. Can I help with anything?”

You thought for a moment, then nodded. “Actually, if you could help me restock some of these supplies, that would be great.”

Joel moved closer, his hand gently brushing against yours as he began helping with the supplies. The shared task created a comfortable silence between you, with only the soft sounds of organizing supplies filling the space.

As you worked side by side, Joel’s gaze lingered on you with an intensity that made your heart race. Without warning, he leaned in, his lips brushing softly against yours in a tender, affectionate kiss. The kiss was a sweet proof the connection you shared, and you responded with equal tenderness, savoring the closeness.

Just as the kiss deepened, the door to the infirmary swung open, and Dr. Ramirez walked in. Her eyes widened slightly at the sight of you and Joel but quickly masked her surprise with a professional smile.

“Sorry to interrupt,” she said, her tone warm but slightly teasing. “I came to check on things and see if you needed any help.”

You and Joel pulled away; a bit flustered but smiling nonetheless. “We were just finishing up,” you said, trying to sound casual. “Everything’s in order.”

Dr. Ramirez nodded, her gaze flicking between you and Joel with a knowing look. “Alright, if you need anything, just let me know.”

As she moved to her office, you glanced at Joel, your cheeks still slightly flushed. “Well, that was embarrassing.”

Joel chuckled, his hand still resting lightly on yours. “Yeah, but I guess it’s a good thing everyone know you’re my girl.”

You looked up at Joel, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "I suppose it is. It’s nice to be able to be open about us."

Joel’s expression softened; his gaze warm. “It is. And I’m glad we don’t have to hide anymore.”

You squeezed his hand gently, feeling a sense of contentment. “Me too. It makes everything feel more real, more... solid.”

Joel nodded, his eyes never leaving yours. “Do you want to have dinner at my place?” he asked.

You looked up at Joel, a smile spreading across your face at the thought of spending more time together. “Dinner at your place sounds wonderful. I’d love that.”

Joel’s face lit up with a warm smile. “Great. I’ll make sure to have something good ready for us.”

You both made your way to Joel’s place, the evening air cool and crisp. The walk was filled with easy conversation and shared laughter, a comforting routine that had become a cherished part of your days.

When you arrived at Joel’s house, he opened the door and gestured for you to enter. The interior was cozy, with soft lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. He led you to the kitchen, where a simple but inviting dinner was laid out on the table.

Joel’s cooking was surprisingly good, and as you enjoyed the meal together, the conversation flowed effortlessly. You talked about everything and nothing—your favorite memories, plans for the future, and the little things that made you both laugh.

After dinner, you moved to the living room, where Joel had set up a comfortable spot with blankets and pillows. You both settled in, the atmosphere relaxed and intimate.

Joel looked at you with a soft smile. “I’m really glad you’re here.”

You snuggled closer to him, feeling a deep sense of contentment. “Me too. Tonight has been perfect.”

He wrapped his arm around you, his touch warm and reassuring. “Here’s to many more nights like this.”

You smiled, resting your head on his shoulder. “I’d like that.”

As the evening wore on, you both talked about your past experiences and shared stories from before the outbreak. Joel spoke about his life before everything changed—his family, the dreams he had, and the struggles he faced. You shared your own experiences, including the loss of your fiancé and the challenges of adapting to this new world alone.

Joel listened intently, his hand occasionally brushing against yours as if to reassure you. “It’s amazing how much we’ve both been through,” he said softly. “And yet, here we are.”

You nodded, feeling a deep connection. “Yeah. It feels like we’re building something meaningful despite everything.”

After some time, you both decided it was time to call it a night. You stood up, stretching slightly as you gathered your things. Joel walked with you to the door, his presence a comforting constant.

As you reached the door, Joel hesitated for a moment, then gently grabbed your wrist, stopping you from leaving. He looked at you with a mix of hesitation and hope in his eyes. “I was wondering… would you like to spend the night here? It’s been nice having you around, and I’d love to have you stay.”

You looked at him, surprised but touched by the invitation. The warmth in his eyes and the sincerity of his voice made it hard to resist.

“I’d like that,” you said softly, a smile spreading across your face.

Joel’s expression brightened, and he pulled you into a gentle hug. “Great. Let’s get you settled in.”

Joel led you to his bedroom, a space that felt both lived-in and welcoming. The room was simple but comfortable, with a bed covered in worn but clean linens and a few personal touches that spoke to Joel’s character—photos of his family, a well-loved guitar leaning against the wall, and a small stack of books on the bedside table.

He gestured to the bed with a slightly sheepish grin. “Sorry, it’s not much, but it’s home.”

You smiled, feeling a sense of warmth and acceptance. “It’s perfect.”

Joel nodded, his expression softening. “I’m glad you think so.”

You both prepared for bed in comfortable silence, the familiarity of the routine helping to ease any lingering tension. Joel showed you where you could find anything you might need—extra blankets, a lamp for reading, and a small cabinet for any personal items you might want to keep nearby.

As you both settled into the bed, Joel turned off the lights, leaving only a soft glow from a nightlight on the dresser. He slipped under the covers, and you followed suit, the warmth and comfort of the bed providing a welcome respite from the day’s events.

Joel turned toward you, his eyes meeting yours in the dim light. “I’m really glad you’re here,” he said softly, his voice tender.

You smiled, feeling a sense of peace as you settled closer to him. “Me too. It feels right.”

He reached out and gently took your hand, interlocking your fingers. The simple gesture was filled with meaning, and you could feel the connection between you growing stronger.

“Goodnight,” Joel whispered, his voice carrying a note of affection.

“Goodnight,” you replied, your heart fluttering with contentment.

A few days later, you and Ellie were seated at a table in the bustling dining hall, enjoying a well-deserved lunch. The room was filled with the murmur of conversations and the clinking of utensils, creating a comforting background noise.

Ellie, always full of energy, was animatedly talking about a new comic she’d found. “You won’t believe this,” she said, leaning in with a conspiratorial grin, “but this one hero has the power to control weather. I’m telling you, if I had that power, I’d totally make it sunny all the time.”

You laughed, shaking your head. “Sounds like you’ve been reading too many comics. But I suppose a bit of sunshine wouldn’t hurt.”

Ellie grinned, grabbing a bite of her sandwich. “True, true. But, seriously, how are things going with Joel? You two seem... really happy.”

You smiled, feeling a warm flush at her question. “We are. It’s been nice, spending time together. He’s been really supportive, and I think we’re figuring things out.”

Ellie’s eyes lit up, clearly pleased with your answer. “I’m glad to hear that. He’s been a lot happier since you two started spending more time together. It’s like he’s found a new spark.”

You nodded, feeling a sense of contentment. “It’s been good for both of us. We’re still taking things one step at a time, but it feels right.”

Ellie’s expression turned thoughtful. “I know it’s been rough with everything that’s happened, but it’s nice to see people finding happiness again. Especially you and Joel.”

You appreciated Ellie’s support and her ability to lighten the mood. “Thanks, Ellie. That means a lot.”

Ellie glanced around the dining hall, then back at you with a mischievous grin. “So, are you guys planning any big adventures together? Or just sticking to the small stuff for now?”

You laughed softly. “We’re sticking to the small stuff for now. Just enjoying the moments, we have together.” You paused, “I’m still a little bit scared of him waking up hating me again.”

Ellie’s eyes softened with understanding. “I get that. It’s natural to be scared after everything you’ve both been through. But you’re doing great, and Joel is different now. He’s not going to just wake up one day and hate you.”

You sighed, a mixture of relief and lingering concern in your expression. “I hope you’re right. Sometimes, it’s hard to shake that fear, especially after everything that’s happened.”

Ellie nodded thoughtfully. “I think you both just need to keep talking and being honest with each other. The more you communicate, the more you’ll build that trust. And remember, it’s okay to have those fears. It just means you care.”

You managed a small smile. “Thanks, Ellie. It’s reassuring to hear that.”

Ellie grinned and took a bite of her lunch. “Anytime. And if you ever need someone to talk to or just need a distraction, you know I’m here. We can have a comic marathon or something.”

You laughed, feeling the warmth of Ellie’s support. “That sounds like a plan. I’ll definitely take you up on that.”

As you and Ellie finished your lunch, you stood up to clear your plates, the conversation easing into a comfortable silence. Just as you were about to head to the serving area, you suddenly felt two strong arms wrap around your middle, pulling you into a warm embrace. A soft, affectionate kiss was placed on your cheek, making you feel a surge of happiness and surprise.

You turned your head slightly, finding Joel’s smiling face close to yours. “Hey there,” he said, his voice full of warmth and affection. “I didn’t mean to interrupt, just wanted to steal a moment with you.”

Ellie watched with a grin, clearly pleased with the sight. “Looks like someone’s got a fan club.”

You blushed slightly, leaning into Joel’s embrace. “Hi, Joel. I was just catching up with Ellie.”

Joel’s gaze softened as he looked at you, his hand gently resting on your side. “I figured I’d come and see how you were doing. Plus, I wanted to see if you’d be up for a walk later.”

You smiled, feeling content in his arms. “A walk sounds nice. I’d love that.”

Joel nodded, his eyes twinkling with excitement. “Great. Let’s finish up here and head out.”

You and Joel exchanged a tender glance before you both started to clear your plates. Ellie gave you both a playful nudge. “I’ll leave you two to your walk. Enjoy, and remember, I’m always here if you need me.”

+++++++++++++

“So?” you asked, as Joel was smiling in complete silence.

“So what?” he asked without erasing that smile from his face.

“Aren’t you going to talk?”

Joel chuckled, his smile widening. “I guess I’m just enjoying the moment. It’s not every day I get to be this content.”

You raised an eyebrow, playfully nudging him. “Oh really? And why’s that?”

He looked at you, his gaze tender. “Because being with you like this, just walking and talking, it’s exactly what I’ve wanted. It’s simple and perfect.”

You smiled, feeling a warm glow from his words. “Well, I’m glad you’re enjoying it. So, what’s on your mind?”

Joel glanced around, taking in the scenery before meeting your eyes again. “I was thinking about how nice would be if you go to my place tonight. Ellie’s gonna spend the night with Dina and I want to spend the night with you.”

“That sounds wonderful,” you said with a smile. “I’d love to spend the night with you.”

Joel’s face lit up with a genuine smile, and he took your hand, gently squeezing it. “Great. I was hoping you’d say that.” He leaned and kiss you on the lips, “No I gotta go helping Tommy, see you later, sunshine”

You pouted, grabbing his hand before he could go anywhere “Wait? That was all?”

Joel chuckled softly, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “I thought I’d surprise you with the invitation, and I wanted to make sure you knew how much I enjoy spending time with you.”

You raised an eyebrow, playfully teasing. “Well, I didn’t realize the evening was just an invitation and a kiss goodbye.”

Joel grinned, clearly amused. “Alright, alright. If you want more, I guess I’ll have to come up with something better.” He pulled you into another kiss, this one longer and more lingering.

You smiled against his lips as you pulled away. “That’s more like it. But seriously, I was looking forward to spending time with you.”

Joel’s gaze softened, and he cupped your face gently. “I’m looking forward to it too. Just had to help Tommy out with something. I promise, I’ll make up for it.”

You nodded, still holding onto his hand. “I’ll hold you to that. See you later, Joel.”

He gave you one last smile before heading out, leaving you with a warm feeling and the anticipation of the evening ahead.

+++++++++++++

When you arrived at Joel's place, the sun had just dipped below the horizon, casting a warm, golden glow across the surroundings. Joel greeted you at the door with a welcoming smile and a quick, affectionate kiss.

"Hey, glad you could make it," he said, taking your coat and hanging it up. "I’ve got a few things planned, but we can start with something simple if you’d like."

You stepped inside, feeling the comforting familiarity of Joel’s home. “I’m sure whatever you’ve got planned will be perfect,” you replied, smiling at him.

Joel led you into the living room, where he’d set up a cozy area with blankets and cushions. The room was softly lit by lamps, and the atmosphere was inviting and warm. A few candles were flickering on the coffee table, casting a gentle glow.

“I figured we could start with some dinner and then maybe just talk or something else” Joel suggested, his eyes reflecting the soft light.

You nodded, feeling content with the simple but thoughtful setup. “That sounds great.”

Joel moved to the kitchen and returned shortly with a plate of homemade food—something comforting and hearty. He set it down on the table, then joined you on the couch.

As you both ate, the conversation flowed easily, just like it had during your earlier moments together. You talked about your days, your plans, and even some light-hearted topics. Joel’s presence was reassuring, and you felt completely at ease.

After dinner, Joel suggested putting on some music. He rummaged through his collection, finally settling on a classic that he thought you’d enjoy. You both snuggled up under the blankets, the music playing softly in the background.

Joel occasionally glanced at you, his hand resting casually on your knee. The song played, but most of your attention was focused on the comfort of being next to him, the warmth of his touch, and the quiet contentment that filled the room.

Joel turned to you, his gaze tender. “You know, I’m really glad we’re doing this. Just being here with you, it feels right.”

You smiled, leaning into him. “I feel the same way.”

Joel’s hand moved to gently brush your hair back from your face. “What’s your biggest fear?” he asked out of the blue?

You sighed, leaving his gaze for a moment “You waking up and forgetting you love me”

Joel’s brow furrowed slightly at your answer, a mix of concern and curiosity in his eyes. “Why would you think that? I don’t see any reason why that would happen.”

You took a deep breath, feeling vulnerable as you shared your fear. “It’s just….you knew I told you we didn’t get along before, in fact you hated me, Joel.”

Joel’s eyes softened as he listened to your concern. He took a moment before responding, his voice steady and reassuring. “I know things weren’t easy between us before. And yeah, I didn’t handle things the best way back then. But that’s in the past. What matters now is how we are right now.”

He reached out and gently took your hand in his. “The truth is, I’ve changed. And I see you differently now. I see you for who you are, and I realize how much you mean to me. Whatever those old feelings were? They’re gone. What we have now is real, and I’m committed to it.”

You looked into his eyes, searching for the truth in his words. “But what if one day you wake up and those old feelings come back? What if something changes?”

Joel shook his head, his gaze intense and full of conviction. “I don’t believe that’ll happen. I’ve come to understand how much you mean to me, and how deeply I care about you.”

He squeezed your hand gently, his expression earnest. “I’m not going to let those fears control us. We’re building something strong, and I want to keep building it with you. I’m here, and I’m committed to making sure we have a future together.”

You felt a wave of relief and warmth at his words. “Thank you, Joel. That really means a lot to me.”

Joel smiled softly, leaning in to kiss your forehead. “I’m glad. And if you ever need reassurance, just ask. I’m always here to remind you of how much you mean to me.”

You nestled closer to him, feeling a deep sense of comfort and closeness. The fears that had been troubling you began to fade as you focused on the warmth of his embrace and the sincerity in his voice.

Joel’s gaze lingered on yours, his eyes filled with a mix of tenderness and resolve. Slowly, he leaned in, his lips brushing softly against yours. The kiss was gentle at first, a careful exploration of newfound trust and affection.

As the kiss deepened, it became more passionate, conveying all the emotions and reassurances that words alone couldn’t fully capture. Joel’s hand cupped your face, his touch warm and reassuring as he pressed closer.

You responded to the kiss, your own hands moving to rest against his chest, feeling the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. The kiss felt like a promise, a shared understanding of where you both stood and where you hoped to go.

When you finally pulled away, both of you were breathless, your foreheads touching as you gazed into each other’s eyes. The room seemed to fade away, leaving just the two of you wrapped in this moment of closeness.

Joel’s smile was soft, his voice barely more than a whisper. “I needed to do that. To show you just how much you mean to me.”

You smiled back, your heart full. “I needed that too.”

Joel gently brushed a strand of hair from your face, his touch lingering.

After that, everything happened in a flash. Neither of you realized when you removed your clothes, but there was too much desperation in your touch; you wanted to discover how his fingers could leave a mark on you, tracing invisible lines across your body.

He kissed you again, slipping his tongue past your lips, gasping when he felt your fingers running your fingertips across his bare chest, tracing the lines of a map leading to where you couldn’t stop.

With one of your hands, you pulled him down by his neck to hold you against your lips again. Once you tasted them, you couldn’t get over the taste of them over yours, and you couldn’t get over the whimpers he left in your mouth.

He was hovering over you, giving you a passionate kiss. He was between your legs, exactly where you wanted him.

He pulled his lips away from yours for a moment to glance down at you. To appreciate the features of your face and the nature of your body to admire the features of your face, and the nature of your body being displayed just for him right now. You felt the crimson color rushing up to your checks and for a moment you felt embarrassed under his stare, but he smiled at you.

“You look beautiful”. He swallowed hard, stroking your cheek with his thumb.

His hands on your tights only increased the sparks in the place you wanted him the most, you wanted to follow the path even when you knew it was leading to a treacherous destination.

You continued kissing slowly as he caressed your thighs with his gently touch, as he wanted to worship your body and devour every single sound coming out from your mouth. He kissed you down over your neck, kissing, nipping your skin between his teeth.

And God, he loved the way you were making him feel. The fact this time was different to everything you had experiencing before. At this moment, you weren’t driving for only passionate reasons, but for caring feelings for each other. You weren’t in a rush and that turned him on. He was hard for you and he wanted to meet where religion was, between your thighs.

This time he was making love because he had drowned himself on your religion.

Both of you gasped aloud the moment he began to push slowly inside you. His hands reached for yours, interlocking them as he kissed you softly, muttering, "You're so beautiful like this". He was mesmerized by the way you were nervously giggling and cocking your head back in delight. He bit your neck, prompting your hands to move up to his neck, and his hands ran down your entire body without a layer of clothing on you, focusing on every thrust and diving deep to ensure he was making you happy.

You opened your eyes and stared back at him, entirely focused on you. You couldn't help but roll your eyes as his hands massaged your breasts while he continued to devour your lips. Your back arched, followed by a moan against his lips. Every thrust felt so fantastic, you couldn't help but think you were in the celestial realm You could tell you were getting closer as you squeezed him and kept your gaze fixed on each other. He pushed harder, one hand caressing your cheek and the other gripping your knee to guarantee you fell apart.

The noises you made drove him insane, as he felt himself reaching the edge of the cliff. He wanted to stare at you under him as you came and with a loud gasp, he did it at the same time falling over your exposed chest, your heartbeats mingling.

You moaned softly beneath him, and Joel raised his head to look at you, flashing him a cute smile he hadn't tired of, as you kissed him on the lips.

"I love you so much," he replied, gazing at you with admiration. “I’m so in love with you.”

I love you.

I’m so in love with you.

Those three words were echoing in the shadows of your mind. Your expression softened and you felt your blood rushing. You were sure they had had an impact on you.

“And I love you so much” you whispered back, your voice trembling slightly with the depth of your emotion.

Joel’s expression softened even further, and he brushed a tender kiss against your lips once more. The connection between you was undeniable, a blend of passion and deep affection that had grown stronger with each passing day.

You rested your head on his chest, feeling his heartbeat steady and strong beneath you. The world outside seemed distant and unimportant in the warmth of his embrace. For a moment, everything felt perfect, and you allowed yourself to fully embrace the love and happiness you had found with Joel.

Joel gently ran his fingers through your hair, his touch soothing. “We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?”

You nodded, your eyes closing as you savored the moment. “Yeah, we have. And I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Joel’s arms tightened around you, pulling you closer. “Neither would I. Here’s to more moments like this, and to whatever the future holds for us.”

You smiled, feeling a deep sense of contentment and anticipation for what was to come. “To us,” you agreed, your heart full of love and hope.

+++++++++++

The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow over the room. You stirred, waking up with a smile on your face. The previous night’s intimacy and love still lingered, and you turned to look at Joel. He was sleeping peacefully beside you, a contented expression on his face.

As you watched him, you felt a surge of happiness and affection. You reached out, gently brushing a strand of hair from his forehead, your heart full of love for him.

But as Joel’s eyes fluttered open and he met your gaze, his expression shifted dramatically. His sparkly brown eyes filled with love, widened in horror, and a look of confusion and fear crossed his face. He pushed himself up, scrambling back slightly.

“What...What the fuck are you doing here?” he asked, his voice trembling with a mix of shock and fear.

You were taken aback, your smile faltering as you tried to make sense of his reaction. “Joel, what’s wrong?”

No. It couldn’t be that, right?

Joel’s eyes were filled with a pained realization. “Oh my god, you came to my house trying to seduce me into sleeping with you?”

You felt a sharp pang of pain at his words, and your heart dropped. The warmth you had felt earlier was replaced by a cold, unsettling feeling.

“No, Joel, that’s not what happened,” you said, trying to keep your voice steady despite the hurt. “We’re in love”

He chuckled. “In love? Me in love with you? I could never” he said.

Your chest tightened, and the hurt in Joel’s words felt like a physical blow. You struggled to keep your composure, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill.

“Joel, you can’t mean that,” you said, your voice shaking. “Last night, you said you loved me. We shared something real.”

Joel’s expression was a mix of confusion and pain. “I don’t remember saying that. Last night I was with Lori”

That’s it. You were back at were you used to be.

The weight of Joel’s words hit you like a punch to the gut. You felt a mix of betrayal and heartache, as the realization sank in. The warmth and affection from the night before felt like a cruel illusion.

“So, what? You’re saying last night meant nothing?” you asked. The tears you had been holding back finally spilled over. “You really don’t remember? You don’t remember how we talked, how you told me you loved me?”

“I don’t love you.” He said, sternly.

“But I’m your sunshine” you sobbed.

Joel’s laughter pierced through you like a blade, and you could barely stand the weight of the realization. Each word he spoke seemed to tear away at the fabric of your heart, unraveling the dream you’d clung to so desperately.

The room felt colder, the air heavier, as you fought to control your sobs. Every touch, every shared moment that had once seemed so real was now reduced to nothing more than painful echoes of a memory that never truly existed.

He didn’t remember the stealing glances, the kisses, the touches and the promises than now seemed to fade with the cruel destiny meeting the ending meant to be.

You had taken a risk at falling in love with the version of a Joel who loved you back, and he didn’t exist anymore. He had faded just when he had told you he loved you.

He didn’t remember falling in love with you, he didn’t remember all the time you spent together, and he didn’t remember loving you, but you didn’t think this would hurt this much.

“Joel” you said, pleading him to remember.

“Out.” He said, gritting his teeth.

You stood there, the pain in your chest almost unbearable, as Joel's harsh words echoed around you. The warmth and affection you had shared just hours before now seemed like a cruel illusion, shattered by his denial.

"Joel, please," you said, your voice trembling. "Just think about everything we shared. It was real."

Joel’s eyes were hard, and he crossed his arms defensively. “I don't remember any of it. And I can't fake feelings I don't have.”

You felt a deep, profound sadness, the weight of his words making it almost impossible to breathe. The life you had envisioned, the love you had felt, seemed to slip away like sand through your fingers.

“Please, just—” you tried to reason with him, but the look in his eyes made it clear that any further pleading was futile.

Joel’s expression remained firm, a mix of regret and frustration. “Everything I know is that you took advantage of me.”

The sting of Joel's words cut deep, each one echoing the finality of a dream you had cherished. The accusation of taking advantage of him felt like a betrayal, intensifying the emotional agony you were already struggling with.

You took a shaky breath, trying to hold onto the fragments of your composure. "Joel, I never did that. We have something—"

Joel interrupted; his voice cold. "I don’t want to hear it. You need to leave. Now."

The finality in his tone left no room for argument. With a heart heavy with sorrow, you nodded, unable to find the words that might change his mind.

You were only on one of his shirts, trying to find your clothes.

You stumbled through the room, your movements disjointed as you searched for your clothes. The pain and confusion made every action feel like an immense effort. Joel’s gaze remained fixed on you, his face a mask of distant resolve.

You found your jeans, but it was crumpled and stained, and you struggled to put it on with trembling hands. The fabric felt rough against your skin, a stark contrast to the comfort you had felt just hours before. You glanced around for your other belongings, the room now feeling foreign and unwelcoming.

“I... I can’t find my blouse,” you said again, your voice a whisper filled with desperation and trembling.

Joel’s eyes flicked to you briefly before he spoke with a tone that brooked no argument. “Don’t worry about it. Just wear my shirt. I won’t wear it again.” His voice was cold and icy, not more softness as when they used to whisper things on your ear.

The coldness in his words made it clear that there was no room for negotiation or further conversation. You nodded numbly, the shirt you were already wearing now feeling like a heavy shroud setting your skin on fire.

As you finished dressing, you glanced around the room one last time, trying to memorize the space you were leaving behind. The sight of the room, so filled with the promise you fooled yourself onto believing.

There was an intensified the ache in your chest.

Joel stood by the door, his posture rigid as if he were bracing himself for something. His eyes didn’t meet yours, focusing instead on some distant point. The silence between you was heavy with the weight of the broken bond that never existed.

As you pulled on your shoes, your heart cracked completely sank in deeper. You looked up, meeting Joel’s eyes one last time.

“Joel, I’m sorry for everything,” you said softly, your voice barely above a whisper. “I never meant to cause any harm. I just wanted—”

Joel cut you off with a slight nod, his face still set in a hard expression. “Just go. Please.”

You swallowed hard, the lump in your throat almost making it impossible to speak. The intensity of Joel's gaze, filled with a mixture of pain and indifference, made it clear that any further words would be futile.

With one last, lingering look at him and the room that just yesterday had witnessed three empty words that now didn’t meant anything, you turned and made your way down the hall. Each step felt like a weight lifting off your shoulders, even as the burden of what you were leaving behind pressed heavily on your heart.

As you reached the front door, the cool morning air hit you, providing a stark contrast to the warmth you had felt just hours before. The quiet outside was a jarring reminder of the world that continued, indifferent to the personal turmoil you were experiencing.

With every step, you tried to reconcile the reality you faced with the memories of what you had thought was true, a momentary field of dreams. The pain was sharp and immediate. How would you continue life after losing another love?

+++++++

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