#our precious ray of sunshine

[frnkiebby]

these absolute babes~🎃

[meluli]

[sunshine7queen]

@yuujispinkhair

[starlostjisung]

soft hours

PAIRING: lee know x reader

GENRE: smut; fluff; established relationship

WC: 2.5k

CW: smut!! don’t interact if you’re a minor!! and also wrap it before you tap it!!!!!!

SUMMARY: soft mornings with your boyfriend are rare because of your jobs, but when they happen, they are the most special ones

soft mornings were your favourite. it was rare that your boyfriend lee know and you had the day off at the same time but today was one of those days were you both were at home and had nothing important to do or somewhere to go.

you forgot to pull the curtains of your window the night before, so now the soft rays of sunshine of the early hours of the morning were the first thing you felt on your face. warm, safe, signalling the beginning of a brand new day. the house was quiet, the only sounds you could hear were the sound of quiet purrs and meows just outside your bedroom, and the soft breathing that came from behind you.

you felt a weight on your waist. lee know had his arms around you, making it impossible for you to leave the bed without waking him up. not that you wanted to leave anyway. slowly, you turned around in his arms, letting out a sigh when you saw his face. he was still asleep, with his untidied hair and his pouty lips. he looked as relaxed as he could be, after long days busy with rehearsals and long sleepless nights.

you felt his arm tightening around you, with his hand on your back now. you took the opportunity to snuggle closer to him, resting your head closer to his. you closed your eyes again, trying to enjoy the warmth of your bed and your boyfriend for a bit more.

“good morning, love” there was his voice, slightly raspy from sleep. it was your favourite sound in the world. he pulled you closer and kissed your forehead.

you smiled against his chest, feeling happy with his gesture “morning, min. sleep well?”

he hummed in reply, closing his eyes once more and letting one of his hands slip under the hem of your shirt and tracing your skin. you both stayed there for a while, not talking, just laying in each other’s arms. both of you feeling happy of being there with each other.

“what do you want to do today?” you asked him after a bit, “it’s your first day off in a bit, you choose”

“mmm, nothing” he replied while opening his eyes and looking at you

“nothing?”

“no, nothing, i just want to stay at home and do absolutely nothing” he told you while letting his hand on your back go higher

“well, while i do love that idea that you are proposing, i think we should at least get up from our bed and feed our children” you hadn’t forgotten about lee know’s cats who were still meowing behind the door.

he let his forehead fall against yours while he let out a groan, “this is why they like you more than they like me, you look after them so well”

“that’s not true and you know that” you laughed at him

“it is true! they prefer you over me, you’re their favourite parent”

you continued laughing and he pulled away from you to look at you. he couldn’t deny that this kind of moments, alone with you, where nothing else mattered, were his favourite moments.

“you want to know something more?” he asked you

you looked at him after having calmed down for a bit, but with a big smile on your face still, “what?”

“that i like you more than them”

and with that, he kissed you. he kissed you slowly, like you were the only people that were awake in the world. like you had to keep your moments together as the most precious secret that ever existed.

he continued kissing you. he pushed you on your back and placed himself above you, trying not to put a lot of weight on you, but even then, he didn’t stop kissing you. his lips went from your lips to your cheeks, your eyelids, your forehead, everyplace they could reach.

your mouth slipped his name out, like a prayer. his lips found yours again. one of your hands was tracing his back and the other was on his hair, both trying to pull him closer, even if the distance between you two was nonexistent. you needed him and he needed you.

“minho…” you whispered against his lips, he whispered your name the same way.

he felt your tongue in his bottom lip, moaning softly as your tongue slipped in. you both felt the world around you fading away as you got lost in yourselves.

he pulled away enough to look into your eyes, “i love you” he told you

“i love you too, baby” you said while staring at his eyes, “so so much”

he kissed you again. this time hungrier. still soft but with a hint of something else behind it. he tipped your head up, trying to pull yourself flush against him.

you felt his arm going to the hem of you shirt and then, he pulled it off. you did the same with his. both of your hands were reaching every curve of your bodies, tracing every inch of skin that you found, leaving none untouched. you could feel your breath getting quicker, desperate to be even closer to him.

you gasped as you felt his mouth closing around one of your nipples, sucking and licking at it, while he used his other hand on the other breast. your hold on him became tighter, making him moan against your skin. he switched from one breast to the other, you were panting for air at this point, your back arching in response.

his hand disappeared between your legs, going above your underwear, feeling how wet you already were.

“minho…” you gasped again, your fingers threading on his hair, urging him closer.

he took the waistband of your underwear, tugging it down almost desperately. he kissed you again, a kiss that stole both of your breaths. your hand got lower and palmed him above his boxers. he was the one gasping against your mouth now

“y/n…” you kissed his neck, adding a bit pressure to your hand on his boxers until he took your wrist and placed your hand beside your head and kissed you again.

his hand slid against your folds, wet and slick with desire for him. you gasped against him, which he took as an opportunity to start to kissing his way down your body while getting to the place where you needed him the most.

he slipped a finger inside you, using his thumb to circle your sensitive clit. you held on him tight, not wanting this feeling to end. he pushed another finger and his pace became quicker, while his lips were on your breasts again.

“minho, please” you begged him

“patience my love, i want you to feel good” he said

the pace of his fingers quickened even more and the stretch was mind blowing. you felt your soul almost leaving your body.

you suddenly felt him there. you felt his breath, warm, against the part of you that was screaming for him, “please” you begged again

“i’m going to take care of you” and with that, he wrapped his lips around your clit.

your entire body was vibrating with need, his lips around your bundle of nerves and his fingers inside of you reaching all the parts that made you see stars. he had you teetering on the edge and you didn’t know how much more you could take.

“hold on to me love”, he said against you. you placed both of your hands on his hair now, your thighs shaking around his head. you felt him moaning against you and moving against the bed. he put his other hand around one of your thighs, trying to stop you from moving.

you threw your head back, bitting your lips to muffle your moans as lee know began licking up and down your slit and then, he took his fingers out from you and slipped his tongue deep, in an out of you. he switched between licking and sucking, while he used his thumb on your clit and his other hand went to your chest again, before placing it on top of your breast.

you arched your back once again, making his nose bump against your clit, almost like you were riding his face. he let out a guttural moan at than. you felt yourself getting even more wet.

you could feel that familiar knot in your stomach starting to build up inside you. you didn’t want to let go but you knew you wouldn’t be able to hold it for much longer.

“minho”, you warned him, “i’m so close”

he could feel it. he could feel your walls tightening around his tongue and how you were almost on the edge of breaking down.

he didn’t respond at first, he picked up his pace, now his tongue and thumb moving in sync, sending you closer to the edge. your legs were shaking, you were sure he could feel it, while waves of pleasure were starting to take control of you almost completely.

“let go, baby”, he told you, “let go for me”

and that’s what you did. you moaned out his name, arched your back and grabbed his hair with one hand while the other grabbed one of his hands, the one that had been holding your thigh before. you didn’t know when he had held your hand, but all that you could feel now was him, riding you through your high. he sucked harder before he pulled away completely, letting you come back from your pleasure.

you felt your breathing slowly going back to normal, while lee know placed soothing rubs on your inner thighs. he slowly kissed his way up your body again, kissing your neck while you slowly traced his shoulders.

“you did so good babe”, he said against your lips now, “so well for me” he kissed you while you felt your taste on him and his need for you. you needed him as much.

“baby, please, i-“ you pulled way from him, grabbing his arms tightly at the same time

“what do you need love?” he replied looking at you

“i need you” you kissed him again, quick and hungry, showing how desperate and needy you were for him now. your hands went down his body until they found his underwear and you took them off. you felt him looking for a condom on your drawer.

you used this opportunity, your hand took his member and you slowly wrapped your fingers around his tip and smeared the pre-cum that was already leaking there.

“y/n, fuck…”, he let his head fall on your shoulder as he placed his hands on the bed, trying to control himself. your hands were slowly tracing his member, moving up and down, making him go crazy.

he grabbed your wrist and stopped your hand, “baby, as much as i love you doing this, i can’t take it anymore, i need you now” he told you while he put the condom on and you helped him.

“please…”, you said again and he nodded quickly, while he got between your legs and adjusted himself.

he kissed you and that’s when you felt him, he pushed into you in one go. you gasped in surprise and he pushed his tongue in your mouth.

you were literally melting into each other. there was no space between you two, there was no way to know where one started and the other ended. he continued kissing you, not moving at first, letting you adjust to himself. once you told him you were ready, he started moving, slowly at first, letting both of you feel your need for each other. you looked at each other, seeing your love and connection, how you were both ready to let go for the other, how you both felt safe and vulnerable enough to do that.

he started to gain speed, starting to slam into you. your eyes rolled back in pleasure, his lips found your neck, leaving a mark there that you were sure you would need to cover the following days.

you felt his lips kissing and soothing the mark he had just left. your hands were scratching down his back and his hands were gripping your hips now, “fuck, baby, like that”, he returned his mouth to yours.

the sound of skin slapping against skin filled the room, only adding to how turned on you both were. one of his hands left your hips, moving to your clit to push you a bit further to the edge once again.

“fuck, minho…” your eyes rolled to the back of your head. you pulled him into a messy and sloppy kiss, and he groaned as you did, his fingers circling your clit faster. you pulled back and saw his lips shine and wet, he leaned in to place open mouthed kissed on your breasts again.

you tried to move your hips against his, trying to meet his movements, ”i’m so close love, please don’t stop, keep going” he told you while he switched his lips between your breasts. his tongue circled around your hardened nipple again, before sucking it into his mouth. you moaned again, feeling you were on the edge of coming one more time.

“minho…”, your body tensed

“yes, y/n”, his lips left your breasts as he came up to look at you again, “let it go for me, let me feel you”

you clenched around him, your orgasm ripping through you. his moan followed yours, his cock throbbing as he came inside you and felt your walls wrapping around him while you came. you held each other close while you both were fell apart.

he collapsed against you, both of your hearts pounding loudly. you didn’t know how long you stayed there holding each other, but you were sure you didn’t want to be anywhere else.

he looked at you and kissed you again. a kiss that was slow and tired, but also full of love and care for each other.

“stay here for a second”, he got out from you and went to the bathroom to toss the condom. he got back and you saw that he had a towel in his hands. after cleaning you up, he left the towel on the floor and got under the sheets with you again. he placed your head on his chest, and his hands on your hair and back, tracing patterns slowly.

“you with me again?” he asked you after a minute

“yes, i’m here”, you laughed and placed a kiss on his chest

he put his hands on your chin and made you look at him

“i love you so much, you know that right?”, he told you while making sure you could see the honesty in his eyes

“i know, and i hope you know i love you more” you told him while smiling

“mmm, that’s not possible”

“yes, it is”

“no, it’s not”

“yes, it-“ he shut you up with a kiss, the both of you melting against the other. feeling nothing but happiness because, while this type of mornings were rare in your household, there was no doubt that they were your favourite.

[sucodegoiaba88]

I saw ur recent post n dw I got u w the requests💪🏽

Could we get a Cho Hyun-Ju x f!reader where we know each other before the games n are already friends? We wake up w the rest of the players n get close to Dae-ho who quickly becomes one of our best friends n Hyun-Ju noticed n becomes jealous of how quick we got along w him which causes tension w her that the rest of the group can feel except us cuz were so oblivious to the point that we have to be pushed to Hyun-Ju n ask her whats wrong which leads to her spilling n some suggestive stuff?

★ : jealous girl＂

featuring: hyun-ju cho x reader, mentions of dae-ho x reader.

summary: you and your best friend hyun-ju were both at the mercy of this horrible game in order to pay your debts. However, in the middle of the game, you found comfort in the presence of another person, which sparked some unwanted feelings inside hyun-ju's heart.

warnings: none.

A/N: I sneaked a mouthwashing reference in the middle of the text, can you find it?

★ . ★ . ★ . ★

➤ Staying at this hellish place was not for the frail or for the weak, both physically and mentally. You had already finished 3 games, and you simply couldn't wait to go back to your precious home, as you finally realized how much you missed it.

But things weren't completely lost, at least you hoped so. You still had your precious friend with you, and that eased your spirits. She was mature, collected, and always knew what to do. It was like she had a natural leadership. It gave you a comforting sensation knowing that you had her.

Well, you had some other idiot too.

Dae-ho was like an useless ray of sunshine. His positive humor and personality were a contrast with the harsh reality of this dark place. You quickly found a good relationship with him. Before you even realized, you were spending time with him, sharing food and starting conversations. His presence, albeit childish, calmed you down a lot more than you would expect.

And that didn't go unnoticed by hyun-ju.

She had formed a nice, small group with her former partners. An old lady named Jang geum-ja, with her son, Yonsik, and a small girl named young-mi kim (who you managed to save last second in mingle by pulling her to your room). You grew very found of them, but that didn't mean Hyun-ju felt the same with your former partner. Quite the opposite.

She couldn't stand the overgrowing jealousy inside her. You two only were friends, her feelings didn't matter on this situation. She shouldn't get jealous of a partner she didn't have.

She just wished you spent more time with her. She just wished you spent less time with him. She just wished you paid more attention to her. She just wished-... Dang it.

Her feelings didn't go unnoticed by people, anyone could notice her bold feelings. Anyone but you. Everyone in the room could read her growing jealousy, everyone could notice her gentle stares at you and the not-so-gentle glares she sent in Dae-ho's direction. Again, everyone but you.

-

You, Jun-hee (a friendly pregnant player who you had grow really protective of.), Geum-ja and Hyun-ju were at the female bathroom. After a couple of minutes, both ladies had left the bathroom, but not before wishing goodnight and to take care to both of you. Leaving only you and Hyun-ju alone in the immense bathroom, full of multiple cubicles painted a nice shade of pink.

You could notice her not-so-friendly stare to her own reflection at the mirror. You knew she was having one of those insecure moments were her dysphoria was hitting her like a ton of bricks. But before you could protest any further, you heard her quiet voice mutter to you.

"... What is your relationship with him?"

The silence that invaded the room was so heavy it could be cut with a knife. You were half confused and half in shock. You two were friends, sure. And friends talked about crushes right? Right. But this... This didn't seem like the case. You, after a few seconds of contemplation, finally managed to get a response out.

"What do you mean, Hyu-" before you could even finish your sentence, you were harshly pinned to the wall of one of the cubicles. Her bigger frame towering above you.

"Do you know how you make me feel? Can't you feel it? Can't you notice it?" your confusion was quickly shattered as you finally could connect the pieces together.

Hyun-ju cho liked you.

And, at this moment, she was jealous.

You mentally facepalmed as you didn't have the capacity to realize it sooner. On one side, you felt like a stupid, idiot buffoon. On the other, your insides felt like melting at the realization that the love of your life felt the same way too.

You almost forgot the situation you were on as a quiet grunt pulled you out of your daydreams. Ah, right, she was still mad.

You gently put your hands on her cheeks, her expression softening almost immediately. You slowly start pulling her face down, and her body immediately obeys your subtle command.

"I love you, Hyun-ju."

It was the unasked, but obvious reassurance that she needed at the moment. Her body immediately bends to you, laying her face to your neck and snuggling her body as close as she could manage to yours.

"now, let's go back, we need to-" she again interrupted you. But this time, you could say you were more pleased than offended.

"don't think i can simply let you go after everything." she says, gently biting on your shoulder after a few seconds.

"uh...?" you silent question was quickly aswered by a harsh grope to your butt.

"i know you more than you know yourself, my dear. Don't think i don't realize how you used to stare at me before we entered here."

You were dumbfounded, unable to do any movement due to shock and a hundred of other feelings you couldn't describe properly.

But none of them were bad.

Your small paradise was quickly interrupted by a loud banging agaisnt the door, followed by a harsh voice.

"player 120, player [number], back to your dormitory, now!"

★ . ★ . ★ . ★

A/N: i suck so bad at doing suggestive themes. Sorry.

[inconspicuous-ghost]

.comfort

synopsis: where shopping in a furniture store with your 8th month old baby leads to small baby pictorial there, courtesy of your husband, rafayel.

pairing: rafayel x non-mc reader

warnings: is self-indulgent fluff fic considered a warning?, reader is not mc, mentions of implied past lives, not proofread (then again all of my fics are), rafayel might be ooc, very short fic.

a/n: was in the mood to write rafayel being a soft dad and husband.

The music blared from the speakers – fill the furniture store as you both enter through the entrance with your baby in the chest carrier you wore. You nod your head, vibing to the current song playing, bouncing your babbling baby to the beat as you sing to her in a soft tone. 

With Rafayel and yourself finally united and tying the knot officially after 800 years of pain, sacrifice, and heartbreak – you both were blessed with a baby girl. Your daughter was showing herself to be basically a carbon copy of her father as she grew by the months, much to his disbelief – who wished of one who looks exactly like you, but nonetheless fell in love once she was placed in his arms. The memory of him sobbing with a smile as he looked down at your baby daughter was precious.

Considering her father's heritage, it was bound to happen that your baby is a Lemurian. In fact, she was brought into this world in her lemurian form, with the help of remaining Lemurian midwives with expertise in assisting on Lemurian childbirths.

Today, your small family decided to go out to buy a new couch with the one back at home now broken, with reasons you will not explain and shall remain a secret between you and your husband. Rafayel fondly stared down at his wife and child. The sight before him never fail to melt him in the inside and resist the urge to pepper you both with kisses in fear of losing control due to cuteness aggression. He tugged your intertwined hands to get your attention.

"Let me carry our little starfish while you look around for the couch, cutie." He offered as he already had a huge grin once his gaze met your baby's gaze, who was now giggling loudly as she shook her hands. Her excitement was also the same level as her dad making you chuckle.

She is growing to be a bundle of sunshine who's rays graze the riptides of the seas. With her sweet smile and adorable giggles, she has already wrapped your husband and yourself around her fingers. Even your friends, acquaintances, and the other remaining Lemurians who have met her were not immune to her charm.

Your husband once joked how once she's an adult, he'll be spending time on fending off pests that will dare take her hand. But judging from the glint in his eyes upon telling you, it was definitely not a joke. 

"Alright, but are you sure you'll like the couch I'll pick?" You await Rafayel to hold your daughter as you take off the baby carrier for him to wear so he could securely carry her while you look around for the couch.

"I trust whatever you choose. But of course, the color should match the palette of our home." He reassures you with a carefree smile before he makes funny faces to your daughter who giggled loudly.

"If you say so, Raf. Make sure you both stay near, alright!" You called out to them as you soon walk with Rafayel, giving you a thumbs up with your daughter who waved.

With you now gone from sight, Rafayel glanced down at his daughter with mischief. "You know what time it is, little starfish?"

His baby daughter merely stared up at him with wide, innocent eyes as she babbled. He merely chuckled as he lead her to a nearby couch.

"Look here, my little starfish!" Rafayel coo as he squats himself, taking a picture of his precious daughter sitting flushed against the back of the couch. The painter gasped dramatically upon seeing her smile at the camera and calling out to him through babbles. "My daughter is a genius! She's photogenic!"

A few people who were also looking around at the store soon peek to watch Rafayel and your daughter. Even a few staff would glance while they work. They would gush at the cuteness of your baby daughter as Rafayel would hype her up whilst he pull ridiculous poses while taking pictures on his phone.

Whilst you are busy talking with the manager as you finalized your order for the couch, you soon left the cashier to find your husband and child. Only to find them surrounded by other customers and a few staff, happily watching and gushing at your husband and your daughter having a small pictorial.

A smile graced your lips at the scene in front of you. You felt bad that you had to stop the pictorial and call out to him. "Raf."

Your husband perked up along with your baby daughter, who began babbling louder at the sight of you, as she wobbly tried to stand, but the softness of the couch made it difficult for her. Rafayel immediately carried her before she could fall over. The people soon disperse not while other mothers compliment your baby before going back to looking around for furniture to buy with their husbands.

"Did our baby have fun today?" You took your daughter from Rafayel, carefully setting her down on the baby seat, making sure she's fully tucked in and safe. Your husband puffed out his chest in pride as he make his way to the driver's seat and started up the car. "Of course! I even got more pictures for me to paint of our daughter!"

You could only laugh as soon as you entered the passenger's seat. There were already numerous paintings of your baby daughter back at home. He has even dedicated a gallery exhibit of works filled with her starting from her birth 'till the present, much to Thomas' headache. The exhibit brought positive reviews from the public and even the critics which was why Thomas had no choice but to let it be, unless Rafayel goes overboard.

As Rafayel began to drive the car out of the store's parking lot, he silently took your hand with his free hand, intertwining his fingers with yours. "I know I've been saying this a lot, but thank you. For giving birth to our baby. For choosing to love me back..."

You glance at your husband, who stares back with many emotions swirling in his blue-pink eyes. Bringing your joint hands to your lips, you kissed it. "I will always choose you, fishie. In every lifetime."

Upon stopping at the red light in the intersection, Rafayel turns to you and slowly pulls you into a passionate kiss. His eyes were slightly teary as he soon pulled away with a smile. "My beloved wife... And our beloved child."

As if sensing she was mentioned, your baby daughter babble and giggling loudly, making you both glance at the backseat where the baby seat was with a loving smile. You silently prayed to the heavens in your heart for this peace to last forever.

[sunshine7queen]

@yuujispinkhair @windlullaby

✌️

[frnkiebby]

pls i love them~🎃

[dreamygirl19]

Helllooo, Can I please request a Geum Seongje x Baekjin's sister! Reader where Reader is the complete opposite of Baekjin, so she's cheerful, an ENFJ, people pleaser. She also grew up in a different environment from Baekjin and it ended up her being innocent or naive, not knowing about the danger of the world or the union and bc of that Baekjin is too overprotective of her and views everyone as a danger to reader's innocence. While on the other hand, Seongje is amused by how naive and positive reader is and wants to ruin her innocence.

Thank youuu(⁠≧⁠▽⁠≦⁠)

I love seeing this "Thank you" signature because I just know it's one people here and I love seeing your request ´⁠◔⁠‿⁠ゝ⁠◔⁠`⁠)

A Flower in the Weed

✮ Summary : Request above ↑

✮ Contains : Angst, no fluff

✮ Pairing : Geum Seong-je x sunshine!reader (feat : Baekjin as a big protective brother)

✮ Word Count : 2336 words

The air in the abandoned warehouse was thick with the scent of stale cigarettes and the lingering metallic tang of recent violence. Outside, the city lights blurred into a distant, hazy glow, a stark contrast to the grimy reality of Baekjin's world. Inside, the Union's leaders were planning their next move. Baekjin, a figure of silent, coiled tension, stood apart, his gaze fixed on the broken window, but his mind a thousand miles away. He had built this life, this fortress of power and fear, to protect one person.

"Baekjin-ah."

Geum Seongje's voice was a low purr, a predatory sound that always set Baekjin's teeth on edge. "Why so quiet? Thinking about your little sister?"

Baekjin's knuckles whitened as he clenched his fist. He didn't respond, but the unspoken threat was clear.

Seongje smirked, leaning back against a graffiti-covered wall. "Don't look at me like that. I'm just curious. I heard she came to visit again. The little ray of sunshine who smiles at everyone, even us."

Baekjin's head snapped around, his eyes like chips of ice. "Don't talk about her."

"Why not?" Seongje's smile widened, revealing a flash of teeth. "She's fascinating. A bright little butterfly fluttering around a nest of spiders. She doesn't have a clue, does she? About what we do, what we are."

"She grew up with our aunt," Baekjin said, his voice a low growl. "She's a good kid."

"A good kid," Seongje repeated, the words dripping with mockery. "Always trying to make everyone happy. Tries to find the good in everyone. I bet she'd even try to befriend me."

Baekjin took a menacing step forward, but Seongje held up a placating hand. "Calm down, I'm just playing. But it's true, isn't it? She's completely ignorant of this world. Your little sister is a blank canvas, and it makes me wonder... what would happen if someone painted it?"

The conversation ended there, but Seongje's words echoed in Baekjin's mind. He had worked so hard to keep you, his sister, a world away from the filth and violence that defined his life. He had sent you to live with their kind-hearted aunt in the countryside, where you could thrive without ever seeing the darkness. You were his one weakness, his reason for everything. Your innocence was a precious thing he had sworn to protect at all costs.

The next day, the cold, gray facade of the Union's headquarters was brightened by a flash of color and sound. You, a whirlwind of positive energy, had arrived with a bag of homemade sandwiches and a smile that could melt glaciers. Your bright pink jacket and cheerful demeanor stood out like a beacon in the somber, threatening atmosphere.

"Oppa!" you chirped, hugging Baekjin tightly. "I brought lunch! Auntie said you've been working too hard and need to eat properly."

Baekjin's rigid shoulders relaxed for a brief moment as he returned the hug, his hand awkwardly patting your back. "You didn't have to come all this way."

"Nonsense!" you said, pulling away and looking around the grim room. Your eyes landed on Seongje, who was observing you with a look of predatory curiosity. You immediately smiled. "Hello! I'm Baekjin's little sister. I don't think we've officially met, but you seem like a good friend of my brother's!"

Seongje's mask of nonchalance slipped for a second, a flicker of genuine amusement crossing his face. He extended a hand. "Geum Seongje. It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

You shook his hand enthusiastically. "The pleasure is all mine! It's so great that Oppa has such loyal friends. You all seem so close."

Baekjin’s jaw tightened. He knew what Seongje was thinking. He knew what he was capable of.

Over the next few hours, you moved through the Union's base, a small, vibrant sun in a world of shadows. You offered sandwiches to everyone, calling them "friends of my brother's" and asking them about their day. You didn't see the bruises on their knuckles, the coldness in their eyes, or the subtle way they flinched at your genuine kindness. To you, they were just people.

Seongje watched, a silent observer of this fascinating experiment. He saw you engage in a conversation with one of the newer members, a boy with a perpetually scared look in his eyes. You were asking him about his dreams, what he wanted to do after school, completely oblivious to the fact that his "job" with the Union was the only future he could see.

"You're a very positive person," Seongje commented, leaning against a pillar as you finished your rounds.

"Oh, thank you!" you beamed. "It's just... I like to make people happy. I think everyone has a good side, you just have to look for it."

"And what if there isn't one?" Seongje asked, his tone deceptively soft.

You tilted your head, your brow furrowed in thought. "I don't think that's possible. Maybe they're just sad, or scared, and they need someone to be nice to them. You know, like a flower that needs water to bloom. Everyone needs a little bit of kindness to show their true colors."

Seongje's smirk was back, but this time it was different. It held a chilling kind of fascination. "A flower. I like that. But some flowers are better off left in the shade."

"No!" you said with a conviction that startled even Baekjin, who had been listening from a distance. "Every flower deserves to bloom. We just have to find the right environment for it."

Seongje's eyes met Baekjin's over your shoulder. In that single, loaded glance, a silent challenge was issued and accepted.

The next time you visited, the atmosphere was even more charged. The rivalry with Eunjang High was heating up, and the Union members were on edge. You, however, were still a bastion of optimism. This time, you brought a small sketchbook and an array of colored pencils.

"Oppa, you're always so serious!" you said, pulling Baekjin's hand and trying to make him sit down. "Let me draw you a picture to cheer you up."

Baekjin resisted, but your unwavering persistence eventually won him over. He sat, his posture still stiff, as you started to sketch his profile.

Seongje came over, a cup of instant noodles in his hand. "Drawing, are we? What's the masterpiece?"

"I'm drawing a picture of my brother, but I'm trying to make him smile," you said with a giggle.

"Good luck with that," Seongje drawled. He then turned to you, his expression shifting to a carefully crafted mask of vulnerability. "You know, your brother is very kind. He always looks out for us. It's tough being a leader."

You nodded, your pencil moving quickly across the page. "I know! He's the best. I worry about him, though. He carries so much on his shoulders."

"He does," Seongje agreed, his voice a low, confidential murmur. "And sometimes, he has to make difficult choices. Things that aren't... pretty." He paused, his eyes watching your face for a reaction. "For the sake of the people he protects. Like you."

You stopped drawing, your pencil hovering over the paper. "What do you mean?"

"This life," he said, gesturing around the warehouse. "It's not a game. It's a fight for survival. There are people who want to tear down everything your brother has built. He has to get his hands dirty to keep them away. To keep you safe."

A flicker of confusion crossed your face. "But... isn't fighting wrong? My auntie always said that violence never solves anything."

"Your auntie's world is different from ours," Seongje said, his voice laced with a gentle pity that was far more sinister than any threat. "In our world, the strong survive. And sometimes, to be strong, you have to be cruel."

Baekjin, who had been watching the exchange, finally snapped. "Seongje, stop it."

"Stop what?" Seongje asked innocently. "I'm just being honest. She's your sister. She deserves to know."

You looked from Seongje to Baekjin, your eyes wide with a dawning horror. The innocence that Baekjin had fought so hard to preserve was starting to crack. You saw the truth in Baekjin's grim expression, in the tension in his shoulders, and in the way the other Union members avoided your gaze.

"Is it true, Oppa?" you whispered, your voice trembling. "Do you... hurt people?"

Baekjin couldn't lie. Not to you. "Sometimes, to protect what's mine, I have to."

Your face crumpled. The bright, cheerful mask you wore every day shattered. You stood up, the sketchbook and pencils falling to the concrete floor, a splash of color against the gray. "But... that's not you. You're not a bad person."

"I never said he was," Seongje said, his voice a sly whisper in the background. "He's just… a realist. He understands what's necessary."

Tears welled up in your eyes. "I don't understand," you said, your voice cracking. "I don't understand."

You ran, leaving a stunned silence in your wake. The Union members looked uncomfortable. Baekjin's face was a mask of fury, his eyes fixed on Seongje.

"You," he seethed, his voice low and dangerous. "You did this on purpose."

Seongje just shrugged, a triumphant glint in his eyes. "I told you. She's fascinating. A blank canvas. And now, there's a little smudge on it. A little bit of reality."

For the next few days, Baekjin was on a warpath, his anger fueling a brutal efficiency that terrified even his own men. He fought with a reckless ferocity that was more dangerous than usual, his mind a single-track obsession: avenge the hurt he saw in your eyes. He saw the world, the cruel, ugly world he had tried to keep you from, through your innocent eyes, and it made him hate it even more.

Seongje, meanwhile, was like a cat toying with a mouse. He would find you, usually in a quiet corner of a park or at a small café, and sit with you, offering a different kind of poison.

"He just wants to protect you, you know," he'd say, his voice a gentle, persuasive hum. "But his way of protecting you is to keep you in the dark. To make you a pet, a pretty little bird in a cage."

"He's my brother," you'd respond, your voice weak, your usual vibrant energy gone.

"And he's doing what he thinks is right," Seongje would agree. "But what about what you want? Don't you want to see the world for what it is? The good and the bad? The light and the darkness?"

You would look at him, your eyes haunted. "Why are you telling me this?"

Seongje would smile, a practiced, charming smile that didn't reach his eyes. "Because it's a kindness, isn't it? To show someone the truth. The world is a dangerous place, and your brother's way is to pretend it doesn't exist. My way is to teach you how to survive it. To stop being a flower and start being a weed."

"A weed?" you'd ask, your voice barely a whisper.

"Yeah. Something that can grow anywhere. Something that doesn't need a special garden to thrive. Something that can't be easily plucked and broken."

He was planting a seed of a different kind in your mind, a seed of doubt and cynicism. He wasn't overtly cruel. He didn't tell you the gruesome details of the Union's work. Instead, he painted a picture of a world where survival was paramount and kindness was a luxury. He wasn't trying to make you hate your brother; he was trying to make you understand him, to see the world through his cynical, pragmatic lens. He wanted to watch as your innocence, a thing he found both repulsive and fascinating, withered away, not from a single blow, but from a slow, creeping understanding of reality.

The final confrontation came during a particularly brutal skirmish with the Eunjang students. Baekjin was injured, a deep gash on his arm, and he was cornered. It was a rare moment of vulnerability, and in that moment, you appeared.

You had followed him, worried, after he had ignored your calls for days. You saw the fight, the blood, the raw brutality, and your world shattered completely. You saw the real Baekjin, not the kind, overprotective brother, but the ruthless, hardened leader.

But you also saw something else. You saw him fight not with rage, but with a cold, desperate efficiency. You saw him defend his men, and you saw the fear in his enemies' eyes.

You didn't run. You didn't cry. Instead, you found a first aid kit and, with shaking hands, started to tend to his wound. Baekjin looked at you, his eyes filled with a desperate apology.

"I told you to stay away," he said, his voice raw.

"You got hurt," you said, your voice surprisingly steady. "I couldn't just... leave."

Seongje watched from a distance, a look of profound disappointment on his face. He had tried to break you, to corrupt you, to turn your innocence into jaded understanding. But instead, you had simply adapted. You had seen the darkness, and instead of being consumed by it, you had chosen to bring a small flicker of light. You were still a flower, but you were no longer a delicate one. You were one that grew in the cracks of the concrete, a stubborn, resilient thing.

"You're an interesting one," Seongje said to himself, a slow, grudging respect entering his gaze. "A weed, after all."

He walked away, leaving you to finish patching up your brother's wounds. You were no longer naive. You knew the truth now. But the core of who you were, the cheerful, people-pleasing, hadn't been broken. It had simply been tested and, in a way, strengthened. You understood your brother's world now, and you didn't approve of it, but you also understood why he did it. And that, in its own way, was a victory for both of them, and a subtle defeat for Seongje's cruel game.

꩜ Masterlist

꩜ One shots requests opened

[sunshine7queen]

@quinnyundertow

Yuuji Itadori

Manga vs Anime

[abbysimsfun]

Sims In Bloom: Generation 2 Pt. 193 (A Happy Father's Day)

Father's Day always fell on the first day of summer, and the Gordon household woke to sunshine in Brindleton Bay - finally - but they had plans to head out on the Simmerloop Superhighway to spend the day with Heather's parents in Henford-on-Bagley.

Roan woke up in a good mood, excited to try new foods in his high chair. The morning's selection - oatmeal - was a huge success. Heather was riding a high from spending so much quality time with her loved ones, but then her phone buzzed with an incoming text.

Could Ray bring Ash to the city today? We thought we'd visit Dad's grave before eating at his favourite restaurant. We want Ash there.

Her heart sank. Mother's Day had fallen in the midst of their custody dispute and Ash had spent the holiday with Nancy and Miko; she'd hoped Father's Day could make up for it and found Conrad in the living room.

"Malcolm wants Ash today," she said. "I know I should say yes, but I'm feeling like I want to be petty."

Conrad laughed. "I don't blame you, but you don't need to be," he reminded her. "Judge Morrison said he wanted to see us all getting along for Ash's sake, and we get him every day of the year now."

Heather nodded. "We can give him Father's Day," she agreed. "We already won."

Once Ray arrived to take Ash to the city, they bundled Lavender and Roan into the car for the drive to sunny Henford, where Heather's family greeted them happily on the cobblestone laneway.

"There's my precious grandson!" Daisy beamed, scooping Roan into her arms. "Not my youngest grandson anymore! Did you get the text from Holly and Kris on the way over? They had a healthy boy just this morning!"

They nodded happily as she climbed the steps to her childhood home. "Marlin Karl Bell is a great name for him," Heather said. "We can't wait to get to the city to meet him."

"Things will be busy the next few months," added Conrad. "Roan will be a toddler soon, and Ash is getting older too. Once we get back from Sulani he'll be off to high school." The realization was only beginning to dawn on them.

Daisy grinned. "Neal and I still feel too young to have a grandson in high school so soon, but then we did start a lot earlier than most of you kids, too."

"I'm glad our kids have grandparents to spoil them on one side of their family tree, anyway," Conrad admitted.

Daisy offered her son-in-law a cheeky smile. "If you feel like giving us one more, we won't complain."

"We might!" Heather laughed as she headed upstairs to gift her dad for the holiday, and Daisy followed close with babbling Roan. "Three kids plus four pets means our home is splitting at the seams as it is!"

Neal laughed. "It's a lot bigger than the house you grew up in. I don't know how you two handle the electricity bills without so much as a dew catcher!"

Heather rolled her eyes. "Why can't they look a little less...just less?"

"Good work isn't always beautiful, Buttercup. You think the first time I brought Nesbeets to an investor, they didn't look at me like I had three heads? It's beet that looks like meat!"

Just before sunset, Lavender followed Neal outside, watching curiously while the successful civic engineer and eco-conscious inventor fed trash to the large recycler in the yard. "Aunt Hazel said we should get a dew catcher, and the NAP inspector came and gave mommy and daddy a fine, Grandpa!"

"Your mother has her reasons not to have one despite the Action Plan. If she's happy to pay the fine, at least that money might do the town some good, too."

Lavender listened thoughtfully, watching as Neal worked the gears to the big blue machine.

"So upcycling means you put things in that you don't need anymore, and they come out as something you can use for something else? Can I try it?"

"Sorry, sweetheart, but the dials are a bit tricky for a kid. When you're bigger, I'll show you how to use one. My fabricator, too, if you want."

"Is that the thing you use to make lamps and stuff? That's pretty cool. I'd make myself a purple lamp, I think."

"I think a purple lamp would look great," he said, as the machine sputtered and banged, dropping a piece of recycled material into a large metal tub.

"Mommy's right. It's pretty loud!"

"Yep. That's how you know it's working!"

"It works really good, Grandpa."

The family spent the day visiting, happy to be in each other's company. Heather grilled dinner on her parents' fancy barbeque while wiggly Roan found the stereo and bounced along to the music.

While they ate, Daisy caught up with Lavender's violin progress. Then the family spent a while chatting at the dinner table before anyone thought to clean the dishes.

Conrad looked distressed about them, but didn't even clean them himself because he was chatting. Family matters. 🤗

Even though Ash missed the day in the city, the Gordons still had a successful Father's Day, with lots of love, good food, and great family. ->

<- Previous Chapter | Gen 2 Start | Gen 2.1 Summary

Gen 1 Start | Gen 1 Summary

NOTE: I've got to credit @deardiaryts4 because I had never received this notification before (I updated RPO and then it showed up!) and I wanted to be petty. She was online at the time and reminded me Heather is a better person than I am, so Malcolm got to spend Father's Day with both his kids, in all his grief, despite everything. And Malcolm is still evil, by the way - but he always autonomously supports his kids and I like that about him.

[thedropsofblood]

I love reading a platonic yandere family with a reader who's completely different from them

Idk if this was a request or not but here we are

You'd say your family was fairly normal? Well, as normal as a mafia family can be. You had wonderful parents and two loving caring older siblings. Wonderful, right? Yeah, no, you wish it was.

Your brother was hugging you and whining about how you shouldn't get too close to your friends, meanwhile you ignored him and paid attention to your homework. Your sister looked at the scene with a frown before dragging your brother away, stealing his position and refusing to let go of you instead. They were like cats and dogs around you, constantly bickering and only shutting up once you've actually gotten mad at them.

Meanwhile your father sat on the couch a little away from you, reading his newspaper and smoking a freshly wrapped cigar. Your mother sat between your father and you, occasionally helping you out with your homework but mainly distracted by her phone. Despite all their flaws, in your opinion, they were the best family you could've asked for. You thought to yourself as you closed your textbook, leaning in to rest your head against your mother's shoulder.

You really needed a nap, especially after a rough day at school.

What you didn't know was how they acted when you're not around.

"I knew something was wrong with my poor, poor baby..." Your mother muttered after moving your jacket up to reveal your bruised arm. Your sister frowned, leaning over to look at the mark before saying with a rather harsh tone. "Are they getting bullied? Dad, did you say brother would keep an eye on them at school What about the principal? Didn't you buy that old hag out already?!"

"Your brother was preoccupied today. He needed to catch up on his missions, don't blame him for something out of his control." Your father sets down his newspaper, his attention moving over to the bruise on your arm and taking a deep breath of the cigar. "I'll deal with the hag later. Seems like she's forgotten the only reason why she's still alive."

"The death of her entire bloodline wouldn't make up for our sunshine's bruise now wouldn't it, father?" Your brother barked back, crossing his arms and rolling his eyes. He was already in a bad mood today because of his missions, this was oil on top of the already burning flame. Your mother silently nodded, her gloved hand grazing over your bruise as if she just got robbed of her most precious jewellery. No, this was even worse than her entire net worth being taken away and burnt at the stake, they injured her entire livelihood, the only ray of sunshine in their corrupted blood stained world, they deserved much worse than just death.

Her hand subconsciously tightens around your arm, causing your sister to grip onto her wrist and pull her hand away before she accidentally wakes you up, gaining a sigh of relief and gratitude from your mother.

Your father meanwhile was rubbing his temples from a supposed headache. He spoke up roughly, eyes narrowing at you as he brushed his hair out of his face. "What if we just homeschool them then? If you're all so persistent about keeping them safe?"

"Do you remember the last time we tried that? They sneaked out and almost got assassinated by your old rival, dad." Your sister frowned, tightening her hug around your torso and nuzzling her head into your chest, all to the dismay of your other family members.

Your brother seemingly had an idea that made his eyes sparkle. He said enthusiastically, hands on his hip as if he just made a major discovery. "What if we just buy out an entire school and make them move into it? It wouldn't be that expensive, just a few millions, and our sunshine will be completely safe."

Despite your brother often having horrible ideas, this, somehow, seemed surprisingly reasonable. Your mother crossed her legs as she thought about it, before giving a nod towards your father, who puffed out the smoke and muttering. "I'll assign it then, honey. Please, treat our sunshine bruises for me, I'll notify you when it's done." Your father held your mother's hand and placed a kiss on it before grabbing his phone, walking out to make a phone call.

Your mother smiled before standing up and setting you to lay down on the sofa, making your sister let go of you, albeit hesitantly. She puts a thin blanket over your sleeping body and a pillow underneath your head, before placing a kiss on your forehead.

"Come on, mom. We have a hag to take care of." Your brother said, sending your mother a glare, which she returned right back to him, causing him to look away to pack up his firearms, preparing for his upcoming with his sister. Your mother sighed, following behind them, her gaze lingering on your sleeping body for a moment before quickly setting off.

No matter how little they get along with each other, they can at least try to get along for the sake of your happiness.

A/N: This was so rough but I live laugh love through it 💔

[sadmiserablechv]

I noticed that Richard divides his identities by naming them.

And I'm not talking about just Nightwing or Robin (like... everyone in DC does it with their hero/vigilante identity)

I'm talking about names

• Dick - just our sweet boy with a reckless demeanor of a little shit when he feels comfortable with another person. Mostly he is just good big brother, positive and just ray of sunshine (you can fight me on that but I won't budge he is my precious baby boy)

• Richie - sometimes he uses this persona when on galas or something like that. It's his most known public demeanor. Like Brucie Wayne.

• Richard - his past self. In one comic we can see how he says that his mother used to call him that and only that (except Robin, yeah). But I think that not many people nowadays call him that and when one does - he becomes tense, still brightly smiling but now with more caution.

• Ric - it's the most gloomy side of him. Because this identity was created after he received fucking bullet at his scull. So yeah. Amnesia, memory gaps in daily life and overall stress doesn't help with all his "being the positive one".

I just want to say how awesome it is. Cause this small details are cool.

Also, I think that this is also one of the main reasons why Dick was so mad about that time when his mantle was given to Jason. This kid took colours of his family, his place and, the most important, he took his name.

[sunshine7queen]

@yuujispinkhair @windlullaby

YUJI IS SO CUTE AND INNOCENT

Mahito, Kenjaku, Sukuna, y'all will pay, I promise.

[thedensworld]

Doesn't Mind At All | Hong Joshua

Pairing: Secretary!Joshua x Baker!Reader (Ft. Boss!Junhui and Brother!Mingyu)

Genre: Romance, fluff, longtime crushing

Summary: Hong Joshua willingly agrees to pick up his boss's daughter from school, not realizing that this simple task would lead to an unexpected encounter with his longtime crush.

In the bustling halls of the company, Joshua was a familiar face. His presence was like a ray of sunshine, brightening up the office with his infectious smile and angelic personality. It was no secret that he held a special place in the hearts of many, having won the coveted title of "Best Office Crush" the previous year, even surpassing the CEO, Moon Junhui.

Joshua wore this badge with a quiet pride, knowing full well that his boss's concerns mainly revolved around the company's products and reputation. As he marked his sixth year as Junhui's faithful secretary and personal assistant, he couldn't help but marvel at the milestone. It was a record that stood unchallenged, a testament to Joshua's unwavering dedication.

Nobody understood Junhui quite like Joshua did, save for perhaps Junhui's own wife. When it came to the intricacies of Junhui's professional mindset, it was said that only Hong Joshua had the finesse to meet and exceed the exacting expectations. This was precisely why Joshua was regarded as the company's most precious gem.

Behind every successful CEO, there was an exceptional secretary, and for Moon Junhui, that shining star was none other than Joshua. Their dynamic was like a well-choreographed dance, a seamless blend of professionalism and camaraderie. They were the dynamic duo, the unsung heroes of the corporate world.

Joshua was renowned for his quick wit, tireless work ethic, and a personality that could charm even the most hardened hearts. His reputation had earned him a multitude of labels, particularly among the female officers, who couldn't help but marvel at the creation of such a seemingly perfect human being. Despite his friendly demeanor, Joshua was adept at setting clear boundaries, creating a distinct line and an almost impermeable wall when it came to romantic interests – a trait that some of the women officers considered to be his only flaw.

Approaching a group of women engrossed in a discussion (or rather, gossiping) about him, Joshua balanced a pack of coffee cups in his hands. With a gracious smile, he handed them out, congratulating them on the success of their recent event two days prior. "You're an angel, Mr. Hong," one of them swooned, to which Joshua graciously thanked her.

Another voice chimed in, "Mr. Hong, may we ask you a few questions? We've been discussing something about you, and it would be wonderful if you could satisfy our curiosity." Joshua settled into a seat, joining their circle. "And here I thought you guys were deep into discussions about our ramyeon drama project," he teased, eliciting chuckles from the others.

"We're actually really-really-really eager to know if you're single or taken," one of them blurted out, while another followed up with, "we've been speculating, and we have absolutely no idea!" Joshua's face reddened in response to the question, and he couldn't help but cover his face in playful embarrassment. What had he done to warrant such a query? Was he unintentionally giving off some sort of signal? The thought left him chuckling and slightly flustered, a rare sight for the usually unflappable secretary.

"Yeah! Absolutely. You gave us this. Yesterday you sent an email of appreciation to our rookie without her knowing that everyone received that as well and has been thinking that you like her. You've been committing a crime, Mr. Hong."

Joshua's brow furrowed as he listened to the explanation. "I can't do that?" he asked them, and they all simultaneously nodded in agreement. "Why?" he inquired once more, prompting a collective groan of exasperation from the women.

"You've been lavishing affection on the women in our company, the kind they haven't received from anyone else, all while displaying a sign that you have zero interest in dating any of them. That's just not right, Mr. Hong."

Joshua nodded, absorbing their words. "I'm sorry?" he offered, glancing down at the cups of coffee he had just handed out. "Should I take these back?" he gestured towards the beverages.

"Just stop sending affectionate emails and notes like this. At the very least, delete the heart emoticon," one of them instructed, holding up a note that Joshua had written, no doubt adorned with an affectionate flourish.

'Good job for the event guys! So proud of you🤍.'

"That's just a habit of mine! I'm sorry, I'll definitely work on that," Joshua offered, his voice carrying a hint of remorse as he mumbled his apologies.

"So, Mr. Hong. Are you single or taken?" inquired one of them. Joshua's smile widened as he answered, "I'm single."

To his surprise, this response was met with another collective groan from the group, leaving Joshua thoroughly perplexed. "Why? Did I answer it wrong? I'm not quite getting it," he admitted, his brow furrowing in confusion.

"You should never answer that kind of question with that kind of smile," one of them advised. Joshua nodded and hummed in understanding, contemplating whether he should spend more time observing and learning from this group of women. It seemed they held the key to deciphering the intricacies of office dynamics.

"Why are you single? I can't imagine it would be hard for someone with such an amazing face and personality to find a significant other," one of them remarked, their words laden with genuine admiration.

Joshua closed his eyes, momentarily overwhelmed by the shower of compliments. He joked that if they continued, he might just consider joining their group.

"I work really hard for the company, and I find it hard to make time for dating," Joshua explained, giving voice to their curiosity. "While I do find some women attractive, it's just that I struggle to strike a balance between my professional and personal life."

"Is there anyone you have in mind, perhaps?" another one queried.

As the seconds ticked by, a portrait of someone from his past suddenly emerged in Joshua's mind. He nodded slowly, acknowledging that there was indeed someone he had in mind. "Ah, my university crush," he quipped, breaking into laughter.

*

Joshua's gaze never wavered from his computer screen, immersed in the tasks that lay before him. The soft tap of approaching footsteps disrupted his concentration, and he turned to see his boss, Moon Junhui, standing beside him. Without hesitation, Joshua rose from his chair, a show of respect for the man who held a significant place in his professional life.

"I'm so sorry, but can you do me a favor?" Junhui's tone held a touch of urgency, a request layered with a sense of trust that Joshua had earned over the years.

"What time is my meeting next?" Junhui inquired, his focus on the packed schedule that dictated his day.

"At 2 PM, sir," Joshua replied promptly, the words rolling off his tongue with a practiced ease. He prided himself on his meticulous attention to detail, especially when it came to Junhui's demanding schedule.

Junhui nodded in acknowledgment, his mind already processing the logistics of the day ahead. Then, his expression softened, and he confided in Joshua, "My daughter, her school is off at 3 PM. I promised my wife to take her with me since her nanny is having her days off. I worry if I'm still in the middle of a meeting at that time." said Junhui about his 5 years old daughter.

Joshua's bond with Hara had grown into a heartwarming routine. It was a familiar sight for the office staff to see Joshua and Hara immersed in various activities. The young girl's intellect and remarkable patience made her a delightful companion, a rare gem in her tender years. Whenever Junhui found himself entangled in meetings, Joshua gladly stepped in to keep Hara company. They'd sit together at Joshua's desk, engrossed in creating art, crafting intricate bracelets, or simply sharing stories of Hara's adventures.

"I can pick her up, sir," Joshua proposed, eager to assist his boss and provide a helping hand.

Junhui's eyes reflected gratitude, a sigh of relief escaping him. "Thank you so much," he expressed, the weight of his responsibilities momentarily eased by Joshua's kind gesture.

"My wife is not feeling very well this morning, that's why I didn't want to trouble her. Thank you so much, Mr. Hong," Junhui reiterated, his appreciation genuine and heartfelt.

As the day approached for Joshua to pick up Hara from school, a mixture of excitement and nerves fluttered within him. This was uncharted territory for him, the first time he'd take on the responsibility of fetching a child from school. Determined to ensure everything went smoothly, he turned to the internet for guidance. His search yielded a concise list of tips, each one etching itself into his mind:

1. Make sure the school knows who you are and that the child is aware and comfortable with your presence.

2. Prioritize the child's comfort and well-being throughout the process.

3. While not obligatory, a snack can often be a reassuring gesture.

4. Engage the child in conversation about their day on the journey home.

With this newfound knowledge, Joshua prepared himself meticulously. He reached out to the teacher, providing them with his contact details and informing them of the situation. He wanted every precaution in place to ensure a smooth transition.

As the hour approached, he found himself behind the wheel, heading towards the school with a sense of determination. The address provided by Junhui led him to the school's gates, where he joined the gathering of parents. Amongst the mothers, Joshua stood.

Time seemed to stretch as he waited, the anticipation building with each passing minute. Finally, the school bell rang, heralding the end of the day. Joshua's gaze fixed on the entrance, heart pounding in anticipation.

Then, there she was—Hara, with her bright eyes and eager smile. Recognition sparked between them, a silent affirmation of the trust they had built. As Hara approached, Joshua's apprehensions melted away, replaced by a newfound confidence.

As Hara's small voice called out, "Uncle!" with uncontainable excitement, Joshua's face lit up with a wide smile. He knelt down, arms ready to receive the approaching bundle of joy. The little girl rushed into his embrace, her tiny arms outstretched in pure delight.

"Hi Hara!" Joshua greeted her warmly, the affection in his voice mirroring the twinkle in his eyes.

Hara, her eyes sparkling like stars, peered up at Joshua with a curious glint. "Is daddy busy?" she inquired, her innocence adding a touch of sweetness to the question. Joshua nodded gently, his expression tender. "Yes, sweetie. That's why I'm the lucky one picking you up today. Are you excited?"

Hara's response was a burst of unrestrained enthusiasm. Her head bobbed up and down like an animated doll, her voice a melodious chorus of, "Yes, yes, yes!" Her anticipation radiated from her like a beacon of pure childhood joy, painting the air around them with an infectious excitement.

As they strolled towards the car, Hara, her small hand nestled in Joshua's, turned to him with a curious look. She inquired about her father, Junhui, if he had his lunch this afternoon. Joshua pondered for a moment, recalling whether Junhui had managed to grab lunch before diving into the meeting. He was certain Junhui hadn't.

"Can we stop at the bakery near my school? I want to buy him and you my favorite cupcake," Hara proposed, her eyes wide with hope. Joshua couldn't resist her earnest request. After all, who could say no to cupcakes? It was a harmless indulgence.

Upon arriving at the bakery, Hara's eyes widened, a sudden gasp escaping her lips. Instantly, Joshua's protective instincts kicked in, a rush of concern washing over him. He swiftly turned to Hara, asking with a gentle urgency, "Are you okay?"

Hara's confession, delivered with the innocence only a five-year-old could muster, both touched and amused Joshua. She looked up at him, her big eyes filled with a mixture of vulnerability and honesty. "I don't have any money."

Suppressing a chuckle, Joshua crouched down to her level, his tone reassuring. "It's okay, sweetie. I'll take care of it." As his words washed over her, a radiant smile lit up Hara's face, the worry dissipating as swiftly as it had come.

As they stepped into the bakery, a hush settled over the empty space, the only sound being the faint hum of refrigeration units. They ambled through the inviting displays, each dessert a potential treasure trove for Hara. She nestled in Joshua's arms, torn between the allure of a cupcake and the temptation of a cookie.

"Why not both?" Joshua's voice, tender and reassuring, broke the internal struggle Hara was facing. Her eyes lit up with a mixture of surprise and delight. "Is that okay?"

With an eager nod, Hara's decision was made, and Joshua promptly collected both the coveted cupcake and the enticing cookie. The radiant smile that bloomed on her face was Joshua's reward, but it was the soft, whispered "thank you..." that danced in his ears that truly warmed his heart.

Just as they were immersed in this sweet exchange, a sudden, welcoming voice enveloped the bakery, pulling Joshua's attention away from the confections. "Welcome to Sweeties..."

Joshua's breath hitched, his gaze swiftly shifting from the colorful array of treats to the source of the voice. Standing a mere two meters away was a familiar face, one that sent a jolt of surprise and recognition through him. It was Y/n, his dear friend from college.

"Wait just a minute, Hara," Joshua gently set her down and took a step toward the woman, a sense of pleasant shock mirrored in both their expressions at this unexpected reunion.

"Y/n, it's been such a long time!" Joshua's voice bubbled with genuine joy, his smile growing wider as he caught sight of Y/n's matching grin.

"I thought I was imagining things. I had no idea you were in Seoul," Y/n admitted, her surprise blending with a palpable delight.

"Yeah, it's been 7 years since I moved here. How have you been?" Joshua inquired, his tone filled with a mixture of curiosity and genuine care. The air around them seemed to buzz with the energy of reconnection, weaving a bridge between their shared past and this unexpected present encounter.

"I'm doing great, and you? I've spotted her around a few times," Y/n mentioned, her gaze shifting towards Hara who was now engrossed in examining the colorful macarons displayed on the stall.

Joshua's eyes twinkled with fondness as he observed Hara's fascination. He turned back to Y/n, a warm chuckle escaping him. "I'm good too. Her school is just a few blocks from here. Can you believe it? It's like a dream come true," he remarked, a subtle nod towards the array of delectable pastries that surrounded them. He knew of Y/n's long-standing dream from their university days to own her own bakery.

Y/n offered a nonchalant shrug, but there was a glint of contentment in her eyes. "I know, right? It's been two years, and it's become my favorite job."

Joshua's gaze wandered to Y/n's hands, and there, he spotted a delicate ring adorning her middle finger. He couldn't help but ask, curiosity laced with a touch of surprise, "Are you engaged?" Their eyes met, and Y/n hesitated for a moment, her gaze flitting towards Hara before she softly affirmed, "Yeah," with a slow, affirmative nod.

The next question carried a weight of intensity, as Joshua inquired, "Are you happy?" His concern for Y/n radiated through his gaze. She met his eyes steadily, her response deliberate and sincere, another nod indicating her contentment.

As their conversation flowed, Hara made her selection of treats. Just as Joshua was about to pay, Y/n interjected, her voice carrying a note of generosity. "It's on the house."

Joshua's immediate response was to decline, insisting they were purchasing quite a bit and it wouldn't be fair to receive them for free. Y/n countered with a tempting offer, "Alright then, how about coffee? Still a fan of your Americano with two shots?"

A laugh bubbled from Joshua, the sound warm and genuine. It seemed Y/n knew just how to strike a deal that left everyone feeling content and connected in this unexpected reunion at the sweet haven of her bakery.

As they settled into the car, Hara's voice, laced with curiosity, broke the brief silence. "Do you know her, uncle?" she inquired. Joshua, his focus on the road, let out a thoughtful hum. The engine purred to life, carrying them away towards the office.

Then, unexpectedly, Joshua's voice filled the car, carrying a note of nostalgia. "She was my first love in college."

Hara's wide eyes sparkled with intrigue. "Really? Were you two dating?" she asked, her young mind eager for the details. Joshua, his gaze fixed on the road ahead, shook his head with a soft smile. "We were friends from the first day of college, but I never mustered the courage to confess. Seeing her again after all these years was quite a surprise."

Hara's curiosity continued to swell, her innocence driving her to probe further. "Why didn't you confess?" she wondered aloud.

A tender sincerity colored Joshua's voice as he explained, "I didn't want to risk losing our friendship."

Hara pondered this for a moment before pressing on. "But did you ever try to confess?" she inquired, her young eyes studying Joshua's face for any hint of what might lie beneath his words.

Joshua, his gaze softening, shook his head gently, the weight of the past mingling with the present. It was a silent acknowledgment of the unspoken feelings that had lingered.

Hara's little face contorted into a playful pout, her dad's wisdom echoing in her mind. "My dad says that trying might hurt but it'll be worth it," she mused, her voice tinged with a mix of contemplation and innocence. Joshua couldn't help but be touched by the profound simplicity in her words, a wisdom that belied her tender years.

Listening to Hara's musings, a soft smile played on Joshua's lips. He decided to seize the moment to seek her opinion on the matter. "Honestly, I have no idea what that means," Hara replied nonchalantly, the weight of her father's advice not yet entirely comprehensible to her young mind. Meanwhile, she nibbled contentedly on her macaroon, the pastel hues of the sweet treat contrasting with her contemplative expression.

Joshua, amused by her response, seized the opportunity to ask about the taste of the macaroon. "Is that good?" he inquired, his tone filled with genuine interest. Hara's enthusiastic nod affirmed her satisfaction, her eyes bright with the pleasure of the delightful treat.

"Thanks for buying me, Uncle. I'll pay you back once I grow up!" Hara declared, her gratitude expressed with a sincerity that warmed Joshua's heart. He nodded, deciding to play along with her lighthearted promise.

One time, two times, and then countless more, Joshua found himself in the routine of picking up Hara from school. What started as a simple request from his boss had evolved into a regular volunteer role for him. The smile on Junhui's face whenever he saw them together spoke volumes. It was clear that Hara cherished these moments with Joshua, and the journey from school to her father's office was transformed into an exciting adventure.

Reason number one for Joshua's eagerness was crystal clear. It wasn't just about being a reliable presence for Hara. It was the genuine joy he felt in her company. They laughed, shared stories, and sometimes even indulged in small escapades that turned ordinary errands into memorable episodes.

And then there was reason number two, which Joshua didn't mind admitting. It was the perfect excuse to visit Y/n's enchanting bakery. The aroma of freshly baked goodies, the vibrant display of pastries, and the warm ambiance—it was a slice of paradise in his day. As he'd open the door, he'd already know Hara's inevitable request, "Can I have my favorite macaroon from Sweeties, please?" It was almost a ritual. Her preferences would shift from cupcakes to macaroons, but Joshua didn't mind. For him, it was the smile on her face that truly mattered.

However, amid all these routines, there was another habit that had stealthily crept up on Joshua. It wasn't until the third visit that he became aware of it. Staring at his reflection in the rearview mirror, he'd question himself. "Is his hair styled just right? Is the suit impeccably ironed? Does his shirt complement his skin tone? And can she catch a whiff of his carefully chosen perfume?" These were the thoughts that occupied his mind.

He couldn't help but chuckle at his own introspection. "Who are you trying to impress, Hong? A stack of macaroons? An almond croissant sitting on the stall?" he'd jest with himself. But deep down, he knew the answer. His thoughts always circled back to Y/n, his college crush, who seemed to occupy a special corner in his heart.

With every encounter, every conversation, his feelings for her only grew stronger. It was a realization that struck him with a mixture of nostalgia and newfound hope. The crush he thought he'd buried long ago was very much alive, and in fact, thriving. Each interaction with Y/n was like a brushstroke, painting a vivid picture of affection that Joshua couldn't deny any longer.

*

"As expected, Y/n," Joshua chirped, his voice a friendly melody in the air. Y/n made her way from the kitchen, a tray laden with warm, freshly baked bread cradled in her hands. A gentle smile danced on her lips, brought to life by the sight of Hara's bright, shimmering eyes.

Setting the tray on the stool, Y/n felt a warmth spread through her. Hara mumbled something, a secret shared only for Y/n to catch. Sensing Hara's shyness, Joshua leaned in, his words a gentle encouragement, assuring her that she needn't be timid in Y/n's presence. "Speak up, Hara, she's as friendly as they come!" he added with a chuckle, infusing the moment with a touch of humor.

"Can I get that too, uncle?" Hara's voice was sweet and eager, breaking the air with innocence and curiosity.

Y/n's brows shot up in surprise. "Uncle?" she echoed, her curiosity piqued. It was the first time she'd heard Hara's voice, and the term caught her off guard.

Y/n struggled to find her words, the question hanging on the tip of her tongue, but not quite making its way out. This revelation left her momentarily speechless.

Joshua, noticing Y/n's bewilderment, turned to her with a questioning look. "She's calling you... isn't she your daughter?" She inquired, a touch of confusion in her eyes.

Joshua glanced at Y/n, his expression a mixture of surprise and realization. "Oh, I never told you?" he began, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "She's my boss's daughter. I haven't tied the knot yet, Y/n." His tone was gentle, as though sharing a cherished secret.

A sudden chill raced down Y/n's spine, propelling her into swift action. She deftly gathered all the sweets that Hara had chosen. Joshua, startled by her abrupt shift in demeanor, watched in quiet curiosity, sensing that now wasn't the time to inquire.

A soft chime announced a newcomer. The door swung open, revealing a tall, sun-kissed man, his smile lighting up the room. Clutched in his hand was a bundle of meals, a simple offering of warmth and sustenance. What didn't escape Joshua's notice was the glint of an engagement ring gracing the man's finger.

"Ah, I should get going," Joshua murmured, a touch of awkwardness dancing in his smile. He gently informed Hara that they needed to head to the office. With a wave, Hara bid Y/n goodbye, her departure leaving a faint sense of longing in the air.

The newcomer, attuned to the change in atmosphere, turned to Y/n with concern etched across his face. He couldn't help but ask, "Who is he?" The question hung in the air, tinged with a hint of curiosity and a touch of wariness.

Y/n was willing to bet that Joshua overheard Mingyu's inquisitive words. With their departure, a weight seemed to settle in the air. She released a heavy sigh, her body finding solace against the worn counter.

This subtle motion didn't escape the notice of her concerned brother. "What's wrong? Who is he? Is he bothering you?" Mingyu's voice dripped with a blend of worry and slight irritation. He couldn't bear the thought of Y/n being bothered.

Y/n mumbled something, her words lost in the quiet ambiance of the shop. Mingyu leaned in, his gentle touch a balm to her unsettled soul. "What is it?" he coaxed, his voice laced with a mixture of affection and protective concern. With a tender gesture, he placed her meal on the counter.

"He's Josh."

Mingyu's eyes widened in surprise. "Joshua hyung? How could he not recognize me?" His disbelief was evident, eyebrows shooting up.

With a hint of annoyance, Y/n lifted her face to meet Mingyu's gaze. "How could anyone recognize you? Even your old self wouldn't," she quipped, a playful tease aimed at her brother's considerable transformation.

Mingyu let out a scoff, his lips twitching into a half-smile. "Then why are you like this? Aren't you happy to see him again?" he inquired, his concern tinged with a touch of gentle reproach. Y/n nodded, acknowledging the mix of emotions swirling within her.

"He's been around a few times. With that kid," Y/n murmured, her voice tinged with a hint of melancholy.

Mingyu's eyes widened in realization. "He's married?! Poor you, holding onto a long-term crush," he sympathized, his heart going out to his sister. "Come here, let me give you a hug." Mingyu's arms enveloped Y/n, offering comfort and understanding in this unexpected moment of emotional complexity.

However, Y/n didn't respond to Mingyu's attempt at comfort in the way he anticipated. Instead, a sharp slap landed on his arm, prompting a surprised whine to escape from him. "Why?!"

"He's not married," Y/n muttered, her voice tinged with frustration as she tried to untangle the complex web of emotions.

Mingyu's brow furrowed in confusion. "Then what? Is he divorced?" Another slap followed, this time landing on his other arm.

"Stop hitting me! It hurts," Mingyu protested, determined to put an end to the arm-slapping.

Y/n let out an exasperated groan, realizing how convoluted the situation had become. "Just listen!" she implored, her tone a blend of exasperation and urgency. "And don't you dare laugh." Her words earned a stifled chuckle from her younger brother. In a swift move, Y/n attempted another slap, but Mingyu managed to catch her hand, his grip firm yet gentle.

"I think I made a mistake," Y/n began, her voice tinged with regret.

"He started visiting the shop two months ago, and it's become a regular thing," she explained, a touch of frustration in her tone. "I assumed the child he always brought along was his daughter. I mean, who wouldn't? But it turns out, she's his boss's daughter."

Mingyu's brow arched in curiosity. "So, where's the twist?"

Y/n hesitated, her gaze dropping to the glimmering ring on her finger. "He saw this," she confessed, her voice a mixture of embarrassment and resignation. "And he thought I was engaged. He asked me if I was... and, you know what I said? Yes. I said yes because I thought he was married, and I was just protecting myself. I'm so messed up, Kim Mingyu." Her words hung in the air, heavy with the weight of her impulsive decision.

Mingyu let out a sigh, absorbing Y/n's explanation. "Why did you even lie?" he inquired, a touch of perplexity in his voice.

Y/n's eyes darted around, her frustration evident. "Because— I don't know! He saw my ring and I couldn't just blurt out, 'The ring has the flower you gave me and your name engraved on it.' Especially when he was here with a child who could very well be his daughter."

Mingyu couldn't help but be impressed. He let out a low whistle and applauded. "You're so witty and clumsy all at once. We really are siblings," he remarked with a grin.

Y/n shot him a sidelong glance, her expression a mix of amusement and exasperation. She reached for the meal Mingyu had brought, a sense of familiarity and comfort settling over them.

The atmosphere softened as Mingyu unwrapped the meal, confirming it was from their mother. He explained how she had hastily prepared it upon his request to visit the shop, and then suggested that Y/n pay their mother a visit soon. It served as a gentle reminder of the last time Y/n had seen their mother, at their father's funeral. Their relationship had been strained since the divorce.

Shifting gears, Y/n inquired about Mingyu's upcoming wedding preparations. He let out a sigh, expressing some of the inevitable stress that comes with such occasions. "You shouldn't get married!" he joked, sharing the minor hurdles in planning with a wry smile. "Nari changed her mind three times about the decorations. And now she wants me to ask you about changing the dessert menu."

Y/n chuckled softly, a warm affection in her gaze. "It's okay. These things happen for big events," she assured him, playfully ruffling his hair. Mingyu leaned in for an embrace, expressing a touch of nostalgia. "I wish I were still a high schooler," he mumbled, resting his head on Y/n's shoulder. Her hand instinctively rose to pat his back. "You're doing a fantastic job, Mingyu. I'm proud that you took such a brave step at your age. I'm genuinely happy for you."

Pulling back, Mingyu looked at Y/n with a sincere smile. "I'm happy too, just a bit nervous and exhausted maybe," he admitted, and Y/n nodded understandingly.

"Since Mom and Dad divorced, you've been the one raising me. I may not say it often, but I hope you know that I've always been thankful for your presence, noona. And I hope you're happy too."

Y/n closed her eyes, a mixture of emotions swirling within her. "Stop it! I have to face customers after this!" she protested, a hint of tears glistening in her eyes.

Mingyu's smile softened, his gaze filled with affection for his older sister. "Invite him to my wedding. I hope you find the confidence to express your feelings to him. Don't worry about his answer. Men can be trash, unless me." he teased, bringing a lightness to the moment.

*

As closing time approached, Y/n began the task of tidying up the stall. Her baker had headed home promptly at 5 pm, while she was committed to staying until 10. A handful of croissants remained, their golden flakiness begging for a home. Who could resist a few bites of almond cream at night? Certainly not her customers. And that bottle of wine, a thoughtful gift from Mingyu two years back, had been patiently waiting for an occasion. Tonight seemed just right. After the whirlwind of a day, a glass of wine was exactly what Y/n needed to unwind and savor the quiet moments.

As she finished adjusting the croissant and set the table, a chime echoed through her shop. "I'm sorry, but we're clos— Josh?"

Y/n's voice caught in her throat as she recognized the unexpected visitor. There stood Joshua, tall and commanding, without his usual suit. Instead, he wore a sharp blue shirt that effortlessly complemented his appearance. The sleeves were casually rolled up to his elbows, a style that defied the odds and only added to his allure.

"It's night, what are you doing?" Y/n questioned, her surprise evident. She quickly shook her head, a warm smile playing on her lips. "I mean, it's really nice to see you. But isn't it a bit late for something sweet?" Her words held a hint of confusion.

Joshua's laughter danced through the air, a familiar and soothing melody in the quiet of the evening.

"Not for an almond croissant," he remarked, his eyes twinkling with anticipation as he gestured towards the delectable pastries adorning the table. "May I join?" he asked, a polite request for permission.

Y/n hesitated for a brief moment before offering a hesitant nod. She swiftly fetched another croissant and a wine glass, setting them in front of Joshua. Settling herself across from him, she couldn't help but express her concern.

Y/n's care and curiosity were palpable in her inquiry. "How have you been?"

Joshua let out a heavy sigh, his response tinged with a sense of relief. "Yeah... Big work hit, but it's finally done. Had a team dinner around here. You know the Soba restaurant near the three section? It was good," he explained, a hint of contentment in his voice. Y/n nodded in understanding.

He continued, delving into nostalgia. "You used to like that soba from a shop near our university," he reminisced, a fond smile gracing his features.

"The one with the wooden chairs? We went there a lot," Y/n admitted, her own smile growing as she recalled those cherished moments. "I remember you ordered hot soba in the summer and I was like, 'What is wrong with her?' I remember laughing a lot that day," he recounted, a hint of playfulness in his tone. Joshua's words evoked vivid memories from their college years.

Y/n stifled a smile before adding, "It was when you just failed your exam."

Joshua's brows shot up in surprise. "Ah, really? I couldn't remember that. Yeah... I failed a lot of tests back in university," he admitted with a self-deprecating chuckle. His gaze softened as he looked at Y/n, a sense of gratitude and warmth filling the air between them.

Joshua couldn't help but let out an impressed coo. "You haven't changed much, Y/n. Talking to you like this feels like we've stepped back a decade," he mused, tilting his head as his eyes traced the familiar features before him.

Y/n responded with a soft chuckle. "Meanwhile, you've changed quite a bit, Josh. I would never have expected to see you in a dress shirt and suit like today. You always favored crewnecks and that one t-shirt with the rock band print," she pointed out, a hint of nostalgia in her voice.

Joshua joined in her laughter, acknowledging the transformation. "You're absolutely right! I've gone through quite the evolution. I ran into one of our friends from college a few days back, and he didn't even recognize me," he recalled, a touch of amusement in his tone.

"Even Mingyu couldn't recognize you," Y/n chimed in, and Joshua's brow furrowed in surprise.

"Mingyu? He met me? When?" Joshua was genuinely taken aback. He remembered Y/n's younger brother as a tall kid who matched his height back when he was still in junior high school, a decade ago.

Y/n's eyes widened, a chuckle escaping her. "The last time you visited. Mingyu was here," she reminded him. Joshua let out a small gasp. "It was Mingyu?! I thought he was your fiance!" he exclaimed, covering his face with his palm in embarrassment.

"It was Mingyu. He's grown a lot, hasn't he? It's not surprising that you two didn't recognize each other," Y/n reassured, a fondness in her voice.

Joshua let out a sigh, his fingers gently massaging his temple. "So, it was Kim Mingyu, that little rascal who used to pester you back in the early semesters," he recalled with a laugh, the memory now tinted with amusement and affection.

"How's your parent?" Joshua inquired, his tone gentle and concerned.

Y/n's lips pressed into a tight line, her expression revealing the weight of her words. "Not long after you moved to The States, they got divorced. We lived with our father for four years before he passed away," she explained, a somber note in her voice. She chose not to mention the years of estrangement from her mother.

Joshua's gaze softened, his eyes filled with regret. "I'm so sorry, I... I had no idea," he murmured, his heart heavy with the news.

"That's why you went out of reach," he concluded, the pieces of the puzzle falling into place. The sudden loss of contact with Y/n had always puzzled him, but now it made sense.

Y/n nodded slowly, her gaze fixed on the memories that played in her mind. "My father's company faced bankruptcy, and my mother..." she hesitated, "she was cheating. They got divorced, and I had to work at the bakery near our university because my father couldn't afford to support both of us. And here I am, now. Running my own shop," she said, her smile holding a mixture of pride and reflection on how the challenges of the past had shaped her present.

Joshua looked at Y/n, his heart heavy with unspoken words. Guilt washed over him, rendering him momentarily speechless. He vividly recalled the day he had to break the news to Y/n about his impending move to the States, just two weeks before his flight. His mother, a single parent, had raised him alone from a young age. After his graduation, she informed him about their relocation due to her work, leaving behind everything in Seoul. Leaving Y/n was an agonizing decision, as she was the only thing that made Joshua contemplate staying. But he knew he had to join his mother after her earnest plea.

"Do you remember when I wanted to become a jeweler?" Y/n's voice pierced through the heavy air, drawing Joshua's attention. He nodded in response. She rose from her seat and went to the counter. When she returned, a small box nestled in her hand, Joshua's gaze shifted to her ringless finger.

Without hesitation, he gently took her hand in his own, his eyes filled with a mixture of regret and tenderness.

"Your ring—" Joshua began, his voice catching in his throat as he beheld the contents of the velvety box. Inside lay a ring and bracelet, delicate and gleaming.

"I made these," Y/n revealed, her voice steady but her eyes betraying a hint of vulnerability. She settled back into her chair, carefully placing the silver jewelry on the table.

Joshua's gaze remained fixed on the pieces, his heart pounding in his chest. He noticed that his name was engraved on both the ring and bracelet. Y/n's words tugged at his emotions, each syllable laced with the weight of untold feelings. "I was going to give these to you before your flight. But I couldn't make it; my parents were fighting that morning," she confessed, her voice carrying a mixture of regret and longing.

As he looked at Y/n, then back to the jewelry, his breath seemed to catch in his throat. The significance of the moment weighed heavily on him.

Y/n produced a necklace, its centerpiece a ring that had adorned her middle finger for all these years. "Mine has your name on it too. I meant to engrave my own, but for some reason, I etched yours," she shared, a soft chuckle escaping her lips.

"It's crazy, isn't it? That I cared for you so much, Josh," Y/n finally confessed, her eyes meeting his, a blend of hope and apprehension in their depths.

"I liked you a lot, and i might still."

The weight of Y/n's confession hung in the air, her words barely more than a mumble. Yet, they carried a profound weight, echoing through the space between them.

In that moment, Joshua finally comprehended that his feelings were not one-sided. It was as if a veil had been lifted, revealing a truth he hadn't dared to believe. He stood there, looking at Y/n, his heart pounding in his chest. For the first time, the enormity of the situation washed over him, leaving him feeling vulnerable and exposed. He had been carrying this sentiment for so long, never imagining that it might be returned. A sense of humility settled upon him, a realization that he had underestimated the depth of Y/n's emotions. He felt like a fool, sitting there in front of her, unable to find the right words to express the tumultuous storm of feelings coursing through him.

Under the tranquil embrace of the night, with the park as their silent witness, Joshua's voice carried a weight that only a decade of silent longing could hold.

"Y/n," he spoke, his words deliberate and infused with a vulnerability that had been buried deep for far too long. "Tonight, hearing your words... it's like a floodgate has burst open within me."

Turning to face her, he held her gaze with an intensity that spoke volumes. "For more than decade, I've carried this in my heart. From the very beginning, you captured my soul in a way I never thought possible. You've been my sanctuary, the person I've turned to in my darkest hours, even from across the ocean."

The sincerity in his voice was palpable, each word a testament to the depth of his emotions. "I was so afraid of losing you that I couldn't find the courage to say anything. But now, knowing that you feel... something for me too, it's like a dream come true."

"I like you a lot. No, i've been in love with you, Y/n."

The air hung heavy with anticipation, the moment pregnant with significance. Joshua's heart raced, every beat a testament to the years of yearning he had endured. With bated breath, he waited for Y/n's response, hoping beyond hope that the feelings he had nurtured in secret for a decade would find their rightful place in the open.

*

On the day of Mingyu's wedding, the venue was bathed in a warm, golden light, casting a radiant glow on the beaming couple. Mingyu, standing tall in his tuxedo, took the mic with a mixture of excitement and nervousness in his eyes. The room fell into a hushed anticipation as he cleared his throat, preparing to address the gathered guests.

"Thank you all for being here today," he began, his voice steady but filled with emotion. "Today is a day of celebration, not only for me and Nari, but for the bonds that tie families together."

Mingyu continued his speech. As he spoke, Mingyu's gaze drifted to Y/n, his older sister, seated among the guests. Her eyes shimmered with unspoken pride and affection, a silent affirmation of their shared journey.

He continued, his voice carrying a note of gratitude, "Today, I stand here as a man about to embark on a new chapter of my life. And I owe so much of who I am to the incredible woman who has always been there for me, through thick and thin."

Turning towards Y/n, Mingyu's voice softened with sincerity. "To my sister, Y/n, you've been my rock, my confidante, and my source of endless support. You've guided me, protected me, and loved me unconditionally. Today, I want to take a moment to thank you, not only for being an amazing sister, but for being an incredible friend."

A swell of applause and affectionate murmurs filled the room, a testament to the love that emanated from this tight-knit family. Mingyu's words had touched the hearts of everyone present, leaving an indelible mark on this special day.

The wedding ceremony unfolded like a dream, an atmosphere of pure happiness enveloping the guests. Mingyu, the groom, approached his sister, Y/n, a vision in her lace gown, diligently overseeing the desserts from her bakery. He enveloped her in a warm embrace, their connection palpable even in the midst of the celebration. He pulled back, Y/n teasingly echoing Mingyu's earlier words, "Your confidante, huh?" A playful eye-roll followed, a testament to their easy camaraderie.

Y/n couldn't help but let out a joyful laugh, her eyes sparkling with mirth. "Well, I had to make a good impression on my new in-laws, didn't I? Let them know they're getting a true family man," he quipped in a conspiratorial whisper. Joshua, standing alongside them, couldn't contain his own chuckle at their banter.

"Thanks for coming, hyung," Mingyu expressed his gratitude, pulling Joshua into a heartfelt hug. Joshua extending his warmest congratulations.

A mischievous gleam danced in Joshua's eyes as he added, "For someone who's kept my girlfriend busy all month, you sure seem appreciative." His words were laced with playful sarcasm, a nod to the last-minute dessert changes that had kept Y/n on her toes.

Mingyu's expression softened, a touch of remorse etching his features. "I'm sorry, hyung. I forgot how much this meant to you. I promise, after this, I won't meddle anymore," he vowed, signing to the new relationship between his sister and Joshua that had been silent for over a decade.

As the joyous celebration continued, a voice calling Joshua's name interrupted their lively conversation. Turning, their attention was drawn to a woman standing behind them. Joshua recognized her as one of his colleagues from the company, and he extended his hand in greeting.

"I didn't expect to see you here," Joshua remarked, a pleasant surprise lacing his voice.

The woman nodded, a smile playing on her lips. "Nari is my junior from college," she explained, her eyes keenly observing the dynamic between Joshua and Y/n.

It wasn't lost on Joshua that his hand lingered at Y/n's waist. Suddenly, the realization struck him, and he made the introduction with a touch of pride, "Oh, please meet my girlfriend, Y/n. Those croquembouche were made by her." The swell of pride in his voice resonated with a warmth that emanated from him.

Mingyu, standing beside them, nodded appreciatively and offered a warm smile, extending his gratitude to the woman for joining them in the celebration.

The woman's words hung in the air, a statement that stirred a shift in the atmosphere. "I didn't know you had a girlfriend, Mr. Hong," she reiterated, her tone carrying a hint of surprise. Before Joshua could respond, Mingyu swooped in, feigning hurt over Joshua's apparent secrecy.

"Hyung, really? You've been keeping your relationship with my sister under wraps from everyone? Noona, you deserve someone who'll shout your worth from the rooftops!" Mingyu playfully chided, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes. Y/n simply smiled, recognizing her brother's penchant for theatrics.

Joshua let out a sigh, a mixture of exasperation and amusement tingeing his voice. "I kept everything hidden," he confessed, a touch of irritation coloring his words. Yet, his smile only grew, his hold on Y/n's waist tightening. It was a silent declaration, an unspoken testament to the depth of his feelings for her, a sentiment that had been quietly growing within him. The unspoken connection between them, now brought to light, added a layer of intimacy to the moment, making it all the more special.

*

A fresh morning light bathed the room, infusing it with a sense of energy and possibility. Joshua entered, a warm smile gracing his features, bearing a circle of coffee and delectable desserts for the ladies gathered at the tables. Their eyes lit up with gratitude as they received the treats, a tangible token of appreciation for their successful drama project.

"Morning, ladies. I heard the drama project was a hit. Here's my treat," Joshua announced, his voice carrying a touch of genuine warmth.

As they settled into their seats, one of them couldn't help but voice the rumor swirling in the office. "Is it true, Mr. Hong?" she inquired, her curiosity piqued.

Joshua's smile remained steadfast, a hint of intrigue twinkling in his eyes. "What rumor?" he playfully deflected, his tone light.

"That you're in a relationship? There's a screenshot of your Instagram Story with a woman on the company community web," another woman eagerly elaborated, her excitement palpable.

Joshua let out a chuckle at their enthusiasm. With an air of showmanship, he unveiled the box of delectable desserts, their intricate designs and inviting aromas captivating their attention. "They look amazing, right?" he asked, a note of pride coloring his voice.

"These are from Seongsu-dong, just a block away from a kindergarten. The shop's called Sweeties. If you ever want to meet my girlfriend, that's the place to go. Please enjoy," Joshua shared, his words imbued with a touch of playfulness and sincerity. With a final warm goodbye, he left the group of women officers, their smiles and laughter lingering in the air. The morning continued, infused with a sense of camaraderie and shared enjoyment.

The end.

[maybetomoko]

happy birthday to our ray of sunshine so human and precious that he seems more like a real person than a character I know there have been two prequels in the manga, however, it would have been nice to know more about him